Baltimore Collective ‘Not Without Black Women’ Channels Resilience for Social Change

Feb 16, 2018

In today’s political climate (and, well, since the dawn of American history), Black women are repeatedly left behind. In the beginning, they were seen as literal livestock to be shepherded from plantation to plantation at the white man’s will; this dynamic has since evolved from straight-up brutality to silencing. In response, countless activists over the years have made it their mission to let Black women’s voices be heard. Thanks to the advent of social media, the mission is spreading exponentially online with hashtags like “#ListenToBlackWomen,” “#PayBlackWomen,” and “#NotYourMule.” In this vein, the Baltimore-based activist collective Not Without Black Women was formed.

It started as an informal meet-up organized by Brittany T. Oliver, a race and gender activist who would go on to become its founding director. She had originally started the event as a chat with maybe 10 women over tea, but upwards of 40 women showed up instead, all seeking to voice their frustrations with how Black women are treated in local and national politics. The following month, Oliver organized the group’s first official meetup on Facebook, entitled “Not Without Black Women: An Evening of Dialogue and Sisterhood.”

Not Without Black Women has since held online chats about state violence, sexual violence, and Black love; a photo campaign, a letter-writing campaign, a citywide walk; brunch, food drives, holiday parties; and emotional support circles for Black women to decompress.

The group’s most popular event to date was the State of Black Women in Baltimore, an open forum held at the Mobtown Ballroom on January 6th, 2018.

“Black women consistently work for a better country, but our country is not working for them,” the event’s description on Facebook states. “By placing Black women’s experiences and interests in the forefront of policy changes and social movements, we can address these barriers. Let’s talk about how we can make that happen at home.”

The event featured a discussion panel and 200 attendees who all offered the same insight: Black women are overworked and undervalued but have become resilient as a group as a result. Attendees included Kimberly R. Humphrey, an ACLU lawyer specializing in education issues, Adar Ayira from Associated Black Charities, and Ateira Griffin, founder of Building Our Nation’s Daughters.

It was Griffin who may have best articulated the mission of the organization when she told the Baltimore Sun, “If you ever want to experience unconditional love, just talk to a Black woman.” A collective history of perseverance and grit have helped forge a community of women with tremendous strength, heart, and resolve — and much to learn from one another.

Are there any organizations that channel the power of Black women in your city? Tell us @britandco.

(Photo via @jkanemedia/@NWBlackWomen)

Gigi Hadid And Bradley Cooper Just Took Date Night To Paris To Watch The Eras Tour

Gigi Hadid and Bradley Cooper have been pretty private about their relationship, but the two have been out and about more frequently as of late.

The pair has been linked since October 2023, with plenty of dinner dates, city strolls, and weekend getaways under their belts since. They were reportedlyintroduced to each other by Bradley’s ex-girlfriend (and the mother of his daughter), Irina Shayk, who has mutual friends in the acting and modeling industries.

However they met, Gigi Hadid and Bradley Cooper are a couple we’ve come to really love. Read on for a full timeline of their relationship!

Who is Gigi Hadid?

Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images

Gigi Hadid is an American model from Los Angeles, California. She is 28 years old, and has been modeling since she was two. Since then, she’s walked countless runways for designers like Tom Ford, Jean Paul Gaultier, Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors, Miu Miu, and many more. She’s been featured numerous times on US-based and international magazine covers and continues to represent Maybelline as a spokesmodel. Gigi is Bella Hadid’s sister, who is also an esteemed model. Gigi also has her own fashion line called Guest in Residence, which launched in 2022.

Gigi has most notably dated Cody Simpson, Joe Jonas, and Zayn Malik. She began dating Zayn in 2015, and the couple were on-again, off-again for quite some time until they announced their pregnancy with daughter Khai in April 2020. They officially split after the relationship between Zayn and Gigi’s mother, Yolanda, turned tense and came to a head. TMZ had claimed Zayn had grown angry with her and things had gotten out of hand. Zayn then entered a no-contest plea to multiple charges of harassment against Yolanda.

Still, Zayn and Gigi are set on co-parenting Khai the best they can.

"Since I've had my daughter and since she was born, the main thing in my mind is trying to be a good example to her in terms of, I can do things and I can achieve things and I can overcome things and you can do this, too," he told People in July 2023.

Gigi has also previously been linked to actor Leonardo DiCaprio, but according to People, things were never serious between the two, and they fizzled out around February 2023.

Who is Bradley Cooper?

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Bradley Cooper is an award-winning American actor, producer, screenwriter, and director from Pennsylvania. He is 49 years old. Bradley made his acting debut in 1999 with a guest role in Sex and the City, and has since starred in films like The Hangover, The Place Beyond the Pines, Silver Linings Playbook, A Star is Born, and Maestro.

Bradley has won one BAFTA, one SAG Award, and two Grammys for his work in the film industry.

Bradley was briefly married to actress Jennifer Esposito in 2006 before they divorced in 2007. He’s most notably dated Renée Zellweger, Zoe Saldaña, and Suki Waterhouse. Bradley also dated Russian model Irina Shayk from 2015 to 2019, and they share a daughter, Lea de Seine (born 2017), together.

Bradley is known to engage in philanthropy (most notably with The One Family Foundation focused on cancer), but has also used his platform to raise awareness around Alzheimer’s disease, climate change, and politics. He is very close with his family and has fully recovered from substance addiction and alcoholism.

What's Gigi Hadid and Bradley Cooper's age difference?

Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images

Gigi Hadid is 28, and Bradley Cooper is 49, so their age difference is 21 years.

Is Bradley Cooper with Gigi Hadid?

Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images

Though the pair hasn’t officially launched their relationship, it appears that Bradley Cooper is with Gigi Hadid. After months of dates, vacations, dinner parties, and recent counts of PDA, it’s likely that they’re going steady. Read on for a full relationship timeline for Gigi Hadid and Bradley Cooper!

The Full Relationship Timeline: Gigi Hadid And Bradley Cooper

Gary Gershoff/Getty Images for Daily Front Row

October 2023

Gigi and Bradley’s first public sighting was on October 5, 2023 over a casual dinner date at Via Carota in New York City. Daily Mail had captured photos of the pair hopping into the same car post-dinner. Their first date came about 8 months after Gigi had ended things with Leonardo DiCaprio.

The two were spotted together again the following weekend on October 8 – they were traveling back to NYC via Jeep after what seemed like a private weekend getaway (thatreportedly took place at Taylor Swift’s mansion in Rhode Island).

At this point, neither Gigi nor Bradley had publicly addressed their relationship.

Kristy Sparow/Getty Images

November 2023

Gigi and Bradley were seen together more frequently in November 2023. Theyattended an Off Broadway play, and were even seen leaving NYC club Zero Bond together after Gigi had a girl’s night out with Taylor Swift, Selena Gomez, Cara Delevingne, Brittany Mahomes, and Sophie Turner!

Later that month, Bradley was seenwalking the city streets repping a stripedcashmere sweater from Gigi’s very own clothing line, Guest in Residence. We love to see the support!

Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

Irina Shayk and Bradley Cooper at the 76th Annual Golden Globe Awards 2019

December 2023

In December, Bradley co-opened Danny & Coop’s, a Philly cheesesteak food truck serving NYC. Gigi sweetly stopped by during his first shift promoting the biz to pick up some food!

Bradley’s ex-wife, Irina Shayk, also popped by the truck at a separate time, with their 6 year-old daughter, Lea de Seine, in tow. Bradley and Irina separated in June 2019.

According to a source that spoke with Entertainment Tonight, there was zero hostility coming from Gigi and Bradley’s respective exes – Zayn Malik and Irina Shayk – regarding their budding relationship.

"Gigi, Bradley, Irina, and Zayn are all in a place where they want each person to be happy and healthy,” the source said, “Zayn's priority is to have a good co-parenting relationship with Gigi."

Gigi shares 3 year-old daughter, Khai, with Zayn. The couple separated in October 2021.

Mike Coppola/Getty Images for People.com

Gigi Hadid and Zayn Malik at the 2016 Met Gala

January 2024

Gigi and Bradley embarked on another dinner date alongside Bradley's mother after the81st Golden Globes in Los Angeles. The three of them reportedlygrabbed a celebratory dinner at Giorgio Baldi.

Later in January, the couple seemed to confirm their then-vague romance with a trip to London. The pair was spotted holding hands – their first documented case of PDA, according toPage Six – as they strolled the streets together.

Emma McIntyre/Getty Images

February 2024

Gigi and Bradley returned to NYC after their London trip, appearing much more comfortable being together in public. They were spotted walking hand-in-hand around the city, going on abrunch date, and stopping by Gigi’s Guest in Residence retail store.

Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images

March 2024

Gigi and Bradley attended Queer Eye star Antoni Porowski’s birthday dinner at Via Carota in NYC (of which Bradley is a “regular”), with plenty of PDA to boot!

According to Daily Mail, the pair was spotted in good spirits, laughing and kissing all evening long.

The pair was also spotted attending the March 23 performance of Broadway's Sweeney Todd in NYC, E Newsreports. Before leaving hand-in-hand, they snapped a pic with cast member Joanna Carpenter, which she posted on her Instagram story.

Although Gigi and Bradley have yet to comment on their relationship, one source told People that the pair is just “having fun” with it, but going strong because of their shared love and dedication to parenting.

“[They have] things in common so it’s possible to see it progress," the source said. “It appears super casual now, but they both have kids, big careers, busy lives and understand what life is like in these circles. It’s cute… and there is an attraction."

Travis Kelce, Gigi Hadid and Bradley Cooper are in the audience for Paris Night 4 (and 87th show of The Eras Tour)#ParisTStheErasTour via @9tay8tay9_pic.twitter.com/xUrBgzOsEE
— Taylor Swift Updates (@SwiftNYC) May 12, 2024

May 2024

Gigi and Bradley enjoyed a fun date night at no other than the Eras tour in Paris! The pair was spotted in a private box alongside Travis Kelce – we love a supportive squad!

Gigi and Bradley watched Taylor perform an all-new setlist at the show, which includes tunes from The Tortured Poets Department.

Come back here for updates on Gigi Hadid and Bradley Cooper's relationship!

This post has been updated.

I Tried Dunkin’s New Summer Menu – I’m So Obsessed With These 3 Items

TheDunkin' summer menujust hit stores on May 1, and I was so excited to get my hands on the new lineup! In addition to an all-new Refresher flavor, Dunkin’ launched two unique coffee-based drinks and three fun food items (both sweet and savory) to coordinate with the summer season. Of course, I had to see what all the hype was about via a bonafide taste test.

Here are my honest thoughts about the new items on the Dunkin’ summer menu, so you know what’s worth trying! Let's get into it!

Watch Me Review The New Drinks

Watch Me Review The New Food Items

Iced Vanilla Frosted Donut Signature Latte

First up, the Vanilla Frosted Donut Signature Latte. This one is so sweet. But so addicting! It may not be the prime choice for those who don’t like sweet drinks, though. I *do* like my coffees fairly sweet, so I didn’t think it was overwhelming when I tried it.

More than anything, this latte simply delivered joy once I got it in my hands. It’s topped with a good amount of whipped cream and a healthy dose of rainbow sprinkles, which fix just about any bad day as far as I’m concerned.

Blueberry Donut Coffee

I go wild for blueberry cake donuts, and I expected the new Blueberry Donut Coffee to taste just like one. I was a bit disappointed when it didn't! I got more of a donut flavor rather than a blueberry one when I sipped down the iced version of this bev.

All things considered, I still loved my first impression of the new Blueberry Donut Coffee. I got it iced (duh), and with cream, it came out to the perfect, most beautiful coffee color. It had maybe 75% of the Vanilla Frosted Donut Signature Latte’s sweetness, which meant it was still sweet enough for my liking.

This could be a great go-to order when you don’t quite want espresso, but are still looking for a nice caffeinated sipper.

Kiwi Watermelon Refresher

The first thing I wrote down in my tasting notes about the brand-new Kiwi Watermelon Refresher was: “MMMMMM SO GOOD.” And I stand by that!

Upon first sip, I got a refreshing (ha, get it?) swig of kiwi flavor and watermelon flavor, which was very nice and evenly balanced. I could see myself gulping this one down at the park or on a road trip this summer! It honestly tasted like candy, which I am not mad about a single bit.

That being said, most of the Dunkin’ Refreshers are really sweet, so if you like milder drinks, you may not fully like this newcomer.

I also got to try the Kiwi Watermelon Refresher with lemonade – a new thing for Dunkin’. I really loved it! With the lemonade, I still got the full effect from the kiwi and watermelon. It was never overpowered, unlike other fruity lemonade beverages from similar coffee chains.

Watermelon Burst Donut

I was really hesitant to try this new menu item because I normally don’t associate watermelon with donuts. One thing about the new Watermelon Burst Donut is that she’s messy… This sweet treat is coated in tons of pink, watermelon-flavored sprinkles and filled to the brim with watermelon jelly.

The first bite I took was just of the donut dough itself – and it wasn’t half bad! My only complaint at that point was the fact that the pink sprinkles got all over the place. They made my lips and mouth messy, and fell off into my lap and around my car. Yikes!

The second bite, of course, included some of the watermelon jelly. This is when I decided that the Watermelon Burst Donut just isn't for me. The bready part was good, but the jelly was super sour – just not what I'd prefer from a donut as a chocolate girlie. I wouldn’t order it on my own accord.

Chocolate Chunk Cookie

Chocolate chunk cookies are classic – you can’t deny that! You also can’t mess it up, IMO. Dunkin’ hit the nail right on the head with this new packaged snack. First of all, I adore the size of the Chocolate Chunk Cookie. It’s huge and packed with big chocolate chunks – as it should be!

There’s a nice variety with texture in this cookie, too. I found that the chocolate chunks were creamy and sweet, while the rest of the cookie was crunchy and downright cookie-like. It made eating it fun!

The pre-packaged-ness of it all is also super nice for snacking on-the-go, or even saving for later (midnight snack, anyone?).

Green Goddess Wrap

Seemingly a direct competitor for Starbucks’ popular Spinach Feta Wrap, the new Green Goddess Wrap from Dunkin’ thoroughly impressed me. Unlike its counterpart, the Green Goddess Wrap is delivered with a very nice texture. I find that other options typically get soggy (after being warmed and put in a bag) and fall apart, but this one didn’t get that way at all.

I loved that the outside of the wrap got a little bit crispy, while the inside stayed gooey and warm. While the texture is quite enjoyable, I was left wishing for more flavor from the wrap’s contents.

Even if it was lacking a bit in flavor, you could easily doctor it up with spices, salt, or hot sauce. More than anything, I appreciate that the Green Goddess Wrap provides a substantial option for breakfast, brunch, or lunch via drive-thru.

Subscribe to our newsletter for more taste tests and reviews from your fave fast food spots!

Photos via Dunkin' and Meredith Holser.

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Oprah Announced Her Book Club's 105th Pick!

Oprah Winfrey is much more than a legend. She's one of the reigning stars of daytime TV, creating such a memorable empire that just her first name carries weight. She's full of wisdomand loves celebrating the success of others. Excuse me, that's grounds for a standing ovation.

In addition to all of the things she's accomplished, Oprah has steadily added books to her book club list since 1996. To date, there are 105 titles she's read and chosen to share with others. If you're thinking, "That's a lot of books" then I agree. But, her goal is to highlight both seasoned and new writers who dare to weave together fiction as well as nonfiction works.

After going through the list, here's everything we think you need to add to your at-home library.

Image via Oprah Daily/Eli Schmidt

Yesterday, Oprah announced her book club's 105th pick On OprahDaily.com and CBS Mornings, where she appeared with author Colm Tóibín to discuss his newly released book Long Island. She had nothing but praise for the novel and said, "I was captivated. Tóibín builds the story around a woman whose life changes seemingly overnight with the news of her husband’s infidelity. It opens the door to her own secrets, grappling with choices she made long ago, urging her to break free from the silences she built around her life. A wonderful page-turner to start your summer reading.”

Image via Cody Love for Oprah Daily

On OprahDaily.com and CBS Mornings, Oprah Winfrey excitedly shared her book club's 104th pick: The Many Lives of Mama Love by Lara Love Hardin. In a touching video, Oprah can be seen surprising Hardin in what feels like a "full circle moment." While trying to process her book being chosen as Oprah's next book club pick, Hardin can be heard saying, "I'm just overwhelmed right now. I'm so grateful."

It's a memoir that details how Hardin's past addiction to opiates caused her to make dire decisions that led her to serve jail time. Not only that, but Hardin eventually finds a way to show herself grace as she reconnects with her children and becomes an ally for other women who are incarcerated.

For a sneak peek of what you can expect in the novel, read an exclusive excerpt on OprahDaily.com!

Long Island by Colm Tóibín

Long Island tells the tale of Eilis Lacey and the discovery of her husband's infidelity. Things start off well enough with Eilis and her husband Tony Fiorello living near his family. The family spends a lot of time together and it feels like they have a quintessential bond that can't be broken.

But when Eilis discovers that a man's wife is carrying Tony's child and they don't want anything to do with the baby, she begins to start looking at her own desires as well as the things she's kept secret for the sake of her marriage. She ends up journeying to a familiar place to rediscover herself and it ignites an inner flame that she thought she lost.

The Many Lives of Mama Love by Lara Love Hardin

According to OprahDaily.com, here's the reading schedule for The Many Lives of Mama Love that'll take place on Oprah's book club's Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok channels.

Week #1: Chapters 1–8

Pages 1 to 103

Discussion begins on Saturday, March 9.

Week #2: Chapters 9–14

Pages 105 to 206

Discussion begins on Saturday, March 16.

Week #3: Chapter 15–End

Pages 207 to 304

Discussion begins on Saturday, March 23.

Be sure to grab your copy of The Many Lives of Mama Love so you can join the discussion!

Let Us Descend

Also listed on the Amazon top books list, Let Us Descend is a masterful tale that views slavery through the lens of a young girl who makes powerful discoveries as along her journey. When Annis is sold by her father — a white slave owner — she finds herself thrust into a world at a sugar plantation. Guided by otherworldly spirits, she finds herself coming to terms with who she is despite her circumstances.

"Demon Copperhead" by Barbara Kingsolver Has Something Big To Celebrate

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Last year on Instagram, Oprah's book club announced that Demon Copperhead by Barvara Kingsolver was celebrating a longstanding run on the NYT Bestseller list. This is surely a testament to the way Kingsolver weaves emotion into her written work for readers to feel.

Read our synopsis of "Demon Copperhead" below!

Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver

It comes as no surprise that Demon Copperhead continues to give a name and face to the perils the young face while growing up. In this case, Demon is learning to come to terms with his upbringing along with the feeling he's not being seen.

Wellness

Oprah's latest book club pick is written by the talented Nathan Hill. Hill paints a picture of the how the idealistic view of marriage and life can feel out of touch with reality. After falling in love during their college days, Jack and Elizabeth are shocked to discover things feel vastly differently decades later. Forced to either turn from each other or peel back layers of hidden things they've never addressed, they make a decision that'll change the course of everything they've known.

Bittersweet by Susan Cain

Bittersweet tackles an emotion we know all too well — sadness. Susan Cain calls for readers to acknowledge that they don't always feel positive, especially when heartbreaking things occur in life.

Nightcrawling by Leila Mottley

With the odds seemingly stacked against them, siblings Kiara and Marcus do what they can to survive while also helping a young neighbor. However, a chance encounter with a stranger grants Kiara with a job that helps sustain them — until she's caught up in a web of secrets that begins with an investigation. Found out what fate has in store for her in Nightcrawling.

Hidden Valley Road: Inside the Mind of an American Family by Robert Kolker

Robert Kolker takes a look at how six of the Galvin children were diagnosed with schizophrenia while the other four weren't. Hidden Valley Road: Inside the Mind of an American Family details how a 'perfect' example of a nuclear family grappled with secrets and mental illness, something that sounds all too familiar.

Olive, Again by Elizabeth Strout

Olive is all at once stubborn and lovable in Olive, Again. From an odd birth experience to her reluctance to accept an inheritance, Olive's life goes through a series of ups and downs that readers will be able to resonate with.

Wild by Cheryl Strayed

In a different take of Eat, Pray, Love, young Cheryl decides to go on a hike of more than a thousand miles after the death of her mother and dissolution of her marriage. Her journey is one of self-discovery and healing all at once.

Sula by Toni Morrison

Two friends, Nel and Sula, have a strong bond that takes them through many stages in their lives. But when a betrayal rocks their friendship, they find themselves on opposing sides. Learn what their outcome is in Sula.

House of Sand and Fogby Andre Dubus III

Living with roommates can prove to be tricky but one thing's for sure - stories and lives often intertwine. House of Sand and Fog weaves a tale of strangers whose lives do just that and then some.

The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver

The Poisonwood Bible follows the Price family, led by devout Evangelist Nathan, as they travel to the Congo in 1959. Determined to save souls, Nathan's fierceness and stubborn nature lead to tragedy that changes the trajectory of the women in his life.

White Oleander by Janet Fitch

When Astrid's mother is sentenced for committing murder, she faces herself immersed in the foster care system in Los Angeles. As the things she faces changes from each home she's placed in, Astrid comes of age and somehow finds her footing.

The Pilot's Wifeby Anita Shreve

When Kathryn's pilot husband dies in a crash, the peaceful and predictable life she'd been living is upended. What happens when she begins to doubt her husband's identity? Find out in The Pilot's Wife.

The Way of Integrity: Finding The Path to Your True Self by Martha Beck

Martha Beck paints a case of what it means to live a life that aligns with our true self in The Way of Integrity: Finding The Path to Your True Self. She also shares what happens when we fall out of that alignment but offers attainable ways to figure out who we really are.

Bewilderment by Richard Powers

When astrobiologist Theo Byrne finds himself coming to terms with his wife's death and their son's troubled behavior, he finds himself willing to do whatever it takes to get him the help he needs. Faced with a chance to try a neurofeedback treatment that features the brain patterns of his late wife, Theo decides it's worth trying in Bewilderment.

Gilead by Marilynne Robinson

Reverend John Ames decides to write to his son about his family's history - particularly that of his father and grandfather in Gilead. It's a tale that weaves together spirituality, wisdom and more.

More titles on Oprah Winfrey's Book Club List:

The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese
Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano
That Bird Has My Wings by Jarvis Jay Masters
Finding Me by Viola Davis
The Love Songs of W.E.B. Dubois by Honorée Fanonne Jeffers
The Sweetness of Water by Nathan Harris
Home by Marilynne Robinson
Lila by Marilynn Robinson
Jack by Maryilnne Robinson
Caste: The Origins of Our Discontent by Isabel Wilkerson
Deacon King Kong by James McBride
American Dirt: A Novel by Jeanine Cummins
The Water Dancer: A Novel by Ta-Nehisi Coates
Becoming by Michelle Obama
The Sun Does Shine by Anthony Ray Hinton
An American Marriage by Tayari Jones
Behold the Dreamers by Imbolo Mbue
Love Warrior by Glennon Doyle
The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead
Ruby by Cynthia Bond
The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd
The Twelve Tribes of Hattie by Ayana Mathis
A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens
Great Expectations by Charles Dickens
Freedom by Jonathan Franzen
Say You're One of Them by Uwen Akpan
The Story of Edgar Sawtelle by David Wroblewski
A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle
The New Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett
Love in the Time of Cholera by Gabriel García Márquez
Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides
The Road by Cormac McCarthy
The Measure of a Man by Sidney Poitier
Night by Elie Wiesel
A Million Little Pieces by James Frey
Light In August by William Faulkner
The Sound and Fury by William Faulkner
As I lay Dying by William Faulkner
The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck
Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy
The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter by Carson McCullers
One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez
Cry, The Beloved Country by Alan Paton
East of Eden by John Steinbeck
Fall on Your Knees by Ann-Marie MacDonald
A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry
The Corrections by Jonathan Franzen
Cane River by Lalita Tademy
Stolen Livens by Malika Oufkir and Michėle Fitoussi
Icy Sparks by Gwyn Hyman Rubio
We Were The Mulvaneys by Joyce Carol Oates
Drowing Ruth by C/hristina Schwartz
Open House by Elizabeth Berg
While I was Gone by Sue Miller
The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison
Back Roads by Tawni O'Dell
Daughter of Fortune by Isabel Allende
Gap Creek by Robert Morgan
Vinegar Hill by Manette Ansay
River, Cross My Heart by Breena Clarke
Tara Road by Maeve Binchy
Mother of Pearl by Melinda Haynes
The Reader by Bernhard Schlink
Jewel by Bret Lott
Where the Heart Is by Billie Letts
What Looks Like Crazy on an Ordinary Day by Pearl Cleage

See Oprah Winfrey's entire book club list here.

Which book(s) are you going to add to your kindle or bookshelf? Let us know in the comments and subscribe to our newsletter for more updates!

Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Lead image via Cody Love for Oprah Daily

This post has been updated.

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Here's When You Can Watch "The Summer I Turned Pretty" Season 3

Thanks to Sean Kaufman and Rain Spencer (as well as all the pros behind the camera), the best TV scene of 2023 came out this summer when The Summer I Turned Prettygave us Steven and Taylor (played by Sean and Rain, respectively) dancing to Frank Ocean's cover of "Moon River." I absolutely lost my mind! This series is one of the best teen dramas around, and good news for fans of all things Cousins Beach: we're getting The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3! Here's everything we know about the new TV show— including a look at our convo with lead actress Lola Tung!

When will The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3 come out?

Image via Erika Doss/Prime Video

Jackie Chung (Laurel) and Sean Kaufman (Steven)

We were hoping to see The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3 return in 2024, but thanks to a new post from the official TSITP account, we know the show will drop summer 2025. Okay, TBH that's a total bummer (just because we can't wait to watch!!), but, as the books say, It's Not Summer Without You (er, Belly and her friends).

Lola Tung starred as Euridyce in Hadestown on Broadway until March 17, 2024. During the official press day — which you can watch on TikTok — she told me that while she doesn't know too much about Belly's arc this season, she's just as excited to return to Cousins Beach as we are! "I'm just very excited to be back with everyone and to be able to step back into Belly's shoes, I'm super excited," she says.

Who's going to be in The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3 cast?

Image via Erika Doss/Prime Video

Gavin Casalegno (Jeremiah), Lola Tung (Belly), Christopher Briney (Conrad), Sean Kaufman (Steven) in The Summer I Turned Pretty

Considering the third book, We'll Always Have Summer, revolves around Belly, Conrad, and Jeremiah, we're expecting The Summer I Turned Pretty cast to include Lola Tung, Christopher Briney, and Gavin Casalegno. We're also hoping to see Sean Kaufman, Rain Spencer, Jackie Chung, and Rachel Blanchard again!

After a variety of cast members were spotted around Wilmington, North Carolina, fans were hoping to see Christopher Briney — and it looks like he has finally arrived! "CONRAD FISHERRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR IS HOMEEEEEEEEEEE," one X user says along with an image of Christopher Briney.

Where can I watch The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3?

Image via Erika Doss/Prime Video

Christopher Briney (Conrad), Lola Tung (Belly)

The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3 will be available to stream on Prime Video, which is where you can watch season 1 and 2 right now!

Who does Conrad end up with in The Summer I Turned Pretty series?

Image via Prime Video

While we don't know who Conrad will end up with in The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3, there is one theory that suggests his reunion with Belly will be better than ever. Lola Tung, Rain Spencer, Gavin Casalegno, and other cast members have been spotted around Wilmington — all except Chris Briney.@julevere wonders if they're filming in chronological order for one specific reason.

"You don't see Conrad for ages in book 3," she says. "What if Jenny [Han] is doing that on purpose so the actual moment in the show where Conrad and Belly see each other for the first time, [in a way] that's going to be the first legitimate time those two actors as...Belly and Conrad will see each other."

Waiting as long as possible for Lola Tung and Chris Briney to see each other means that Belly and Conrad's reunion will be more intense, and bring up all the old emotions (and infinity necklaces) that came up during season 2. If there's one thing this show has taught me, it's that you can only run from your feelings for so long and as a member of #TeamConrad, I'm hoping any reunion between the two brings them together for potential future seasons.

How old are the characters?

Image via Erika Doss/Prime Video

Lola Tung (Belly) and Christopher Briney (Conrad)

In season one, Conrad is going to be a freshman in college, while the rest of the characters are still in high school. And at the beginning of season 2, Steven graduates from high school!

How many episodes are in The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3?

Image via Erika Doss/Prime Video

Lola Tung (Belly), Christopher Briney (Conrad), and Rain Spencer (Taylor)

The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3 will have 10 episodes instead of eight like the previous two seasons!

Where is The Summer I Turned Pretty filmed?

Image via Amazon Studios/Prime Video

Even though The Summer I Turned Pretty is set on the coast of Massachusetts, the show is filming in Wilmington, North Carolina. This city is actually pretty well known in Hollywood — projects like Iron Man 3,One Tree Hill, and Outer Banks have filmed there! As someone who grew up going to Wilmington every single summer, I can promise you it's just as pretty as it looks (and the fair from season 2 is just as fun!!)

Is there a 4th Summer I Turned Pretty?

Image via John Merrick/Prime Video

Christopher Briney (Conrad), Lola Tung (Belly)

There is not a fourth The Summer I Turned Pretty book, but that doesn't mean the show has to end with season 3. They've already changed a few details from the books — namely, adding the Stephen/Taylor relationship reminds me of how Gossip Girl gave us Chuck and Blair, a fan-favorite ship that wasn't in those books either! I'm excited to see how the story (and the characters) continue to grow and evolve!

The Summer I Turned Pretty Season 3 Announcement

Image via Prime Video

Lola Tung (Belly), Rain Spencer (Taylor)

Prime Video announced the renewal on August 3, right before episode five of the second season hit the streaming service. Just like the season two trailer, Taylor Swift's "august" plays in the background and I'm in tears.

“We’ve been delighted to see the passion with which fans have embraced The Summer I Turned Pretty,” Amazon and MGM Studios' head of television Vernon Sanders says in a press release. “Jenny Han is a gifted storyteller, whose fans have been clamoring for the third chapter of this story. We’re excited today to share the news that they have a lot more Summer to look forward to."

Bookmark this page for the latest The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3 news!

Lead image via Erika Doss/Prime Video

This post has been updated.

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7 Styles That Prove Rothy’s Are The Cool Girl Shoe Of The Summer

You’ve probably already spotted these shoes on your favorite influencer. Rothy’s are swiftly becoming The Shoe to have, and it’s clear why. Rothy’s offers a wide range of trendy shoe options, from Mary Janes to ballet flats and platform sandals toclogs (all of which are stunning and exceptionally comfortable), but more importantly, they’re made with special attention to sustainability.

Rothy’s are crafted from single-use plastics and other repurposed organic materials in order to promote circular fashion and zero-waste practices in the industry. Sustainability is chic – and Rothy’s is a testament to that!

They’re oh-so worth the investment knowing your purchase supports their sustainable mission. All Rothy’s shoe styles (and even their bags) are fully machine washable to keep them nice and new-looking, no matter what. They’re staples that’ll last you a lifetime and tons of mileage.

Here are the 7 most iconic Rothy’s silhouettes you should rock this summer!

The Square Mary Jane

This signature Rothy's shoe (seriously, it's all over our FYP) features a flexible, stretchy woven upper layer – and it's so comfy. These Mary Janes boast a square toe for added chicness and an attached strap for wearing them with ease. No buckles or buttons here! Each pair is fitted with durable outsoles that easily tolerate city walks and park strolls. It won't even feel like you're wearing flats.

The Square Mary Jane goes for $159 and is available in 10 different colors.

The Ballet Flat

The bows on these ballet flats are the perfect size, TBH. They add an air of cuteness that any summer 'fit could benefit from! These shoes feature a very trendy rounded toe and a mesh construction that adds breathability to each and every step. Rothy's promises "no break in period, ever" with the cozy insole you can enjoy wearing all day long.

The Ballet Flat is shoppable for $145 and is available in 18 different colors and patterns.

The Point II

New office shoes, incoming! These pointed babies give some real sophisticated vibes – the pointed toe is signature of slingbacks, too, but this version is way more comfortable. The Point II from Rothy's is essentially an upgraded version of their OG The Point shoe. According to the brand, this new iteration has a "more spacious toebox, added elastic, sculpted outsoles and our innovative In Love Insole™ for outrageous all-day comfort." The mesh material on this pair makes for the perfect summer shoe since it's very elastic-like, moving accordingly with your step.

The Point II costs $155 and is available in a whopping 29 different colors and patterns.

The Espadrille

A more elevated style than the aforementioned shoes, these espadrilles are a great go-to for more formal summer occasions. The upper's made from a breathable hemp fabric that supplies a lightweight feel to the feet. Rothy's promise for these slip-ons is that they have an "unbelievably cushy footbed." The ankle ties pictured above are removable, so there's a good amount of styling possibilities with this Rothy's shoe.

The Espadrille is shoppable for $139 in 8 different colors.

The Lightweight Wedge Sandal

For a slight boost in height (that's still wickedly comfortable), call on The Lightweight Wedge Sandal. The layered heel height measures about 2.25 inches, and feels like an absolute dream! The stretchy straps atop these Rothy's shoes are stitched on, so you're not left messing with any finicky buttons, clasps, or buckles (or chafing, for that matter). The thicker platform ends in the brand's signature durable outsole for practical reasons – walking, strolling, skipping, or even dancing in the summertime. Whatever floats your boat!

The Lightweight Wedge Sandal costs $179 and is available to shop in 3 different neutral colorways.

The Weekend Slide

This cheetah print just oozes trendiness. The slide-on fit of these Rothy's sandals makes outings so easy, you won't want to wear anything else. The thick duo straps made of hemp provide some good coverage on top of the foot, so you'll feel fully fitted. The footbed is made from a durable contoured rubber, still has some softness to it for walking purposes.

The Weekend Slide costs $139 and is shoppable in 5 different colors and patterns.

The Casual Clog

This ultra-cool girl clog is available in 3 hemp colors and 5 Merino wool colors for cooler weather, but no matter the time of year, they're gonna look gorgeous. They boast a ribbed outsole for added traction, and they're fully free of any extra bells and whistles. The very simple outer layer meets a contoured footbed with some lovely arch support to encourage a cozy step.

The Casual Clog goes for $159.

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Images via Rothy's.

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