Books

  • 1. Red, White & Royal Blue (Casey McQuiston)

    This is a captivating romance novel that explores the unlikely relationship between Alex Claremont-Diaz, the First Son of the United States, and Prince Henry of Wales. The story, set in DC, begins with a public altercation that forces them into a staged friendship to manage a potential international scandal.

  • 2. Heartburn (Nora Ephron)

    Heartburn by Nora Ephron is a semi-autobiographical novel that blends sharp wit with poignant storytelling. The book follows Rachel Samstat, a food writer who discovers her husband Mark's infidelity while she is seven months pregnant. Rachel recounts her experiences with humor and resilience, interspersing her narrative with delectable recipes.

  • 3. Lincoln in the Bardo (George Saunders)

    This an innovative and poignant novel interweaves historical fiction with elements of the supernatural. Set in 1862, the narrative centers around the grief-stricken President Abraham Lincoln and the death of his young son, Willie. The novel unfolds in a Georgetown cemetery where Willie's spirit lingers in a transitional state known as the "bardo."

Movies

  • 1. All the President's Men (1976)

    Based on the book of the same name, this political thriller film stars Robert Redford and Dustin Hoffman as journalists Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein, respectively, as they investigate the Watergate scandal for The Washington Post.

  • 2. Burn After Reading (2008)

    "Burn After Reading" is a dark comedy film directed by Joel and Ethan Coen, featuring an ensemble cast including George Clooney, Frances McDormand, John Malkovich, Tilda Swinton, and Brad Pitt. The memoir of a disgruntled CIA analyst is mistakenly found by two hapless gym employees.

  • 3. Charlie Wilson’s War (2007)

    Directed by Mike Nichols and released in 2007, this movie is a political drama based on the true story of U.S. Congressman Charlie Wilson, played by Tom Hanks. The film chronicles Wilson's covert efforts to support Afghan mujahideen during the Soviet-Afghan War in the 1980s.