The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck. Wow, this is one of the classics that did not disappoint me. I feel the rage over how capitalism and the quest for profits, by people and organizations who frankly do not need them, destroy the lives and dignity of ordinary people. This was written in 1939 and the fact that it's still so relevant is gutting. Not a fast-paced book by any means but overall just really well written details and emotional impact. East of Eden on my list for more Steinbeck later.

In TV, I watched The Undeclared War (season 1). Another show specifically watched due to my random sudden attachment to Simon Pegg and discovered through a tumblr post by someone else going through Simon Pegg obsession. This is a British show about cyberattacks and misinformation campaigns and while it was somewhat slow because it really does focus on the cyber stuff and doesn't just use that as a backdrop for more exciting spy things like a lot of shows would, it got pretty real. I was like, okay, this is indeed a political thriller and hits really close to some serious anxiety areas. That said, I will watch season 2 when it comes out. I like the way they visualized analyzing code as like an escape room type mystery and I find Saara to be an interesting and messy protagonist.

And movies! I went to see the new Superman which I thought was good and the new Fantastic Four which was fine but mostly just reminded me that no matter how good the cast is I unfortunately find Fantastic Four to be hopelessly boring.

Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler. Gripping, terrifyingly plausible post-apocalyptic America where climate change has made L.A. unlivable and the protagonist sets out to make a better life. Read this through in two days and have the sequel on hold.

In TV, I finished Spaced (seasons 1 & 2). Funny British show where the two main characters Tim and Daisy pretend to be a couple so they can rent a flat that will only rent to a professional couple and the friend group has a lot of hijinks. Perfect time capsule of 90s/Y2K. I'd never heard of this show but I'm in a Simon Pegg phase from my Mission Impossible hyperfixation. I also watched Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz, and The World's End for the first time. The movies I knew about through general pop culture osmosis but I didn't really think I'd like them because they're kind of silly comedy and I don't tend to watch a lot of comedy but I enjoyed them a lot!