What you NEED to read: Valley of the Dolls

valley0fdolls_dvd.jpgA wise person (Dr. Seuss) once said, “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” I know it sounds cheesy and the thought of reading for pleasure while in college is often daunting, but hear me out.

When you stop and think about it, you probably have more time to squeeze in a couple pages of a great book than you think (the few minutes before class starts when you’re usually just zoning out into space, while you’re on the elliptical or bike at the gym instead of reading trashy celeb mags, during a commute across campus on the bus, etc.) …You get the point.

I tell you this not as someone who successfully found time to read while in college, but as a recent graduate who has noticed how much more interesting and intelligent a well-read person is once out in the real world. Seriously.

So, with all of your best interests in mind, I will bring you occasional reviews and recommendations for books that are worthy of squeezing into your hectic jam-packed weekend. I would love to hear all of your thoughts and opinions on the selections as well.

First up on the list: Valley of the Dolls. An absolute CLASSIC and must read for any college girl about to start out on their own (Ah hem, Seniors!). Although written back in the late 1960s, this book was way ahead of its time in chronicling the struggles young women go through when setting out on their own and trying to make it in competitive industries such as entertainment or the media.

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How the Writers’ Strike Improved My Life

24312417.jpgYes, I love(d) television.

I considered myself a huge fan of certain shows like Gossip Girl (my guilty pleasure), Brothers and Sisters, Desperate Housewives, The Office, etc (the list goes on and on). So, when the strike first began, I was devastated and wondered how I would function in my tiny cable-less studio without network shows putting out brand new episodes each week. What on earth would I look forward to at night?

Well, the months came and went and I realized I needed something else to keep me entertained and fall asleep at night. What did I do?

I rediscovered the joys of reading multiple books, reconnected with friends I haven’t seen in awhile, and found new activities to do around New York City.

I sadly admit that during college the idea of reading for pleasure was an unattainable dream after being forced to do massive amounts of required reading for class. The last thing I wanted to do when getting home at night from a busy day of activities and studying was pick up another book. Now, I can’t go to sleep without finishing a substantial chunk of whatever page-turner I’m working through.

My recent books: Breakfast at Tiffany’s (a classic), Bright Lights Big City, and Matrimony. All great reads. Next up: Valley of the Dolls. Yes, it may sound nerdy to be so gung-ho about books, but it’s true and I’m proud of it. Read More »