Emilie Andrews, Staff Writer
December 8, 2023
If you’re like me and struggling to find ways to spend your newfound free time this winter break, I’ve compiled a short list of books, TV shows, and albums for you to read, watch, and listen to this winter.
To start, if you are traveling during break and need a way to spend long periods of time, I suggest downloading The Queen’s Gambit on Netflix. This one-off drama, though only seven episodes long, is a gripping narrative of a young chess prodigy who comes into her own as she moves up the ladder of the chess-playing world. It doesn’t matter how much you know about chess because The Queen’s Gambit will educate you and take you through the thrills of becoming the best of the best.
If you are trying to get into the holiday spirit, go through the classic TV show New Girl, and find the four iconic Christmas episodes. Whether or not you’ve seen the entire series, check out Season 1 Episode 9, Season 2 Episode 11, Season 4 Episode 11, and Season 6 Episode 10. This feel-good and funny show is sure to get you through the cold weather, and excited for the holidays.
Lastly, in case you’ve somehow forgotten about this classic, I am here to remind you to watch Antiques Roadshow. You might think you’ve had enough after viewing numerous clips during assembly, but no! The show has so much more to offer, and you never know what kinds of rarities might be found. Each episode is unique and chock-full of “real or fake” moments, with various treasures. The series never gets old and is perfect to fill extra time this winter break.
If you need some new music to try out over break, I have three different suggestions for you. The first, So Tonight That I Might See, by Mazzy Star, is a classic winter mix of songs that are beautifully melancholic and romantic. At just under an hour long, this album is perfect if you have just baked some cookies and need a way to pass the time while they cool. Or perhaps, the cold hasn’t gotten to you and you need something to score a walk outside.
If Mazzy Star isn’t your style, Noah Kahan is always a winter classic. All of his albums are perfect for the season, however, this winter I would recommend his 2021 album, I Was / I Am. Though brief–nearly half the length of the Mazzy Star album–I Was / I Am is perfect for part of a long drive or a quick trip to the grocery store. There is nothing better than listening to this album all the way through while appreciating the winter scenery from the comfort of your car.
Finally, if you are in need of something to bring the Christmas cheer, bring back the classic Charlie Brown Christmas album, A Charlie Brown Christmas. This album can be background music for nearly any occasion: hosting a holiday party, completing your last college applications, or decorating your home with holiday decorations. A Charlie Brown Christmas is a lovely soundtrack to revisit this holiday season. Its peaceful piano melodies are sure to bring back old memories from Christmas past.
If you have additional time and want to enrich your break with a book, pick up the quick read Anxious People, by Fredrik Backman. Anxious People takes you through an apartment showing and explores the mix of characters inside. While containing a seemingly short plot, the book is full of witty details that allow you to get to know each character in depth. It’s around 350 pages but will fly by in a free afternoon. If you are struggling with the shorter days, and encroaching darkness this break, Anxious People is a gripping narrative that will keep you awake through the darkness of the winter afternoons
If classics are more your style, I suggest you read Just Kids, by Patti Smith. While it’s not your normal “classic” read, Patti Smith is a renowned artist who describes her life in partnership with Robert Maplethorpe and her time in New York City. It is a light read to help you relax this break. While it doesn’t have many classic winter elements, Just Kids is a raw look into both Smith’s life as a musician and her era in the music industry. Just Kids is a love letter to rock music in the 70s, and I highly recommend you give it a try.
Last but certainly not least, for those cold evenings when you feel like reminiscing, go back through your old children’s books and reread A Pocket for Corduroy, by Don Freeman. The beautiful graphics combined with the sweet story of a teddy bear that gets lost in the laundromat is sure to keep you warm and stress-free this winter. It’s easy to read and worth the revisit.
(Photo Credit: Wudiana Fevrier)
