TGIF! Do you need some entertainment to keep you busy as we head into the weekend? Then we’ve got just the thing! Our staff have rounded up a selection of books, shows, games, and places to keep you happy all weekend long!
ALIEN: EARTH
Noah Hawley, the creator of series Fargo and Legion as well as the author of Before the Fall, has crafted one of the most exciting entries in the Alien franchise to date. That it’s also a TV show as opposed to a feature film is even more impressive. There have only been two episodes so far but based on their quality viewers are in for a smart, wild ride. The first may go down as one of the best series premieres of all time and the second shows that we won’t be subjected to some of the needless wheel-spinning that many modern programs throw at us, and between the impressive action sequences, stunning effects, and heady themes, Hawley and crew leave us with a lot to talk about. – Sean Farrell
HEAD CASES BY JOHN MCMAHON
A page-turner that delivers plenty of suspense while giving you a main character you can really root for. The twists keep things exciting, but it’s the unique approach to crime solving that makes it stand out from other FBI thrillers. If you’re a fan of David Baldacci’s Amos Decker series, I recommend it. – Erin Brown
EDELMAN FOSSIL PARK & MUSEUM OF ROWAN UNIVERSITY
This brand new museum may not be the biggest, but it’s impressive nonetheless. Featuring several fossils and life-sized recreations of dinosaur species that are known to have roamed the area along with well-designed interactive exhibits, this will impress dino-lovers of every age. There is also an add-on Quarry Fossil Dig (for which they recommend bringing a change of clothes and shoes) and a Virtual Reality Experience, the latter of which genuinely blew me away. If you have the time to make the trip, this is well worth a visit. – SF
THE BOOK OF DOORS BY GARETH BROWN
There exists in the world a rare collection of books that each contain a unique magical power. As one would expect they are in high demand among those who know of them, some of whom have benign or altruistic intent, others who want to use them for much darker purposes. Cassie Andrews unexpectedly comes into possession of the titular Book of Doors, which allows her to instantly travel anywhere she wants. It seems like a miraculous gift to her at first, but simply owning the small book puts her in immense danger, and with the help of her friends she is going to have to fight hard to stay alive.
This story opens on passages of striking melancholy beauty before it begins to morph into supernatural suspense, with a hint of horror and a dash or two of romance. Thanks to evocative prose, endearing characters, and some excellent world building, Brown’s debut novel propels the reader along with Cassie and company as they fight against unimaginably strong and dangerous forces, leading up to a complex but clear final confrontation. Immensely entertaining and a moving testament to the value of friendship and the power of books. – SF
HIDDEN DOOR
This browser-based game lets you enter some of your favorite fictional worlds like Pride & Prejudice or The Crow to create your own story. AI generates your adventure based on the original works and your decisions along the way, using virtual cards and dice rolls to keep track of your progression and determine your success. It’s easy to play and surprisingly engaging, even though it is still in its early stages. – SF
CULPABILITY BY BRUCE HOLSINGER
This riveting novel about the possible consequences of our increasing reliance on AI couldn’t be more timely. With relatable characters and a propulsive plot, it will keep readers turning the pages late into the night and will leave them pondering the state of society long after the final page. You can read my full review here, but suffice it to say that I loved it. – SF
THE GILDED AGE
Season 3 of HBO’s lavish costume drama has just wrapped up and it’s been the best and most eventful one yet. Sure, it’s basically just an escapist soap-opera, but it’s a very good one that does a decent job of incorporating real historical events into its opulent fantasyland. If you aren’t watching this show yet there’s never been a better time to start. – SF
I don’t think too many are still in the dark about this series, but just in case you’ve been putting it off, wanted to note that the third season of The Gilded Age just wrapped and it’s a must watch for any fans of Downton Abbey, historical romance, and upstairs-downstairs intrigue. The HBO series (seasons 1 & 2 are available from the library) transports you to 1880s New York, where old money and new money battle it out in glittering ballrooms and behind polished front doors. Plus stunning costumes, elaborate sets, and plenty of drama – absolutely recommended! – EB
The library and its staff do not receive compensation for inclusion on this list, nor do we receive compensation for clicks to or purchases on outside websites.
Cover image made with Midjourney prompt: an impressionist painting of people being impressed by something off screen.
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