Happy Tuesday All,
And welcome to the Cultural Reads Newsletter, with a bi-weekly book, music, and movie recommendations from all around the world.
In this week’s newsletter: Planting Trees, Amapiano Music, International Dream Jobs, Kenya, India, Vietnam & Sweden
Although it’s not entirely in line with this newsletter, I wanted to share a short video that the Financial Times did about our projec
I was pleasantly surprised last week that the South African newsmagazine Vrye Weekblad featured Cultural Reads. To honor this, I have a South African music tip for you: Amapiano.
Amapiano (meaning pianos in Zulu) is a product of musical genres that started after the abolishment of Apartheid in the 90s.
The music is a mix of house, jazz, and lounge mixed with synths and a wide bassline. You’ll find lyrics in all eleven South African languages, including the most widely spoken Zulu and Xhosa.
I was not familiar with Amapiano, but I can’t stop listening to this playlist and the artist Kabza De Small. Thanks for the tip Joël.
Kenya is a popular tourist destination and known for its beautiful parks. The country is also a technological front-runner and home to a vibrant literary scene.
It’s home to some fantastic authors with tales ranging from everyday stories to complex political issues and its colonial past.
What stories are you most interested in?
Find out in this post.
What do people want to be around the world?
This graph has the answers, from businessman in Brazil to dietician in China.
Last year, I spent a week in a hostel in Sevilla.
One of the people I met there was a psychologist and sexologist who did a lot of work on sexual trauma.
I asked her what her favorite book was around those topics, and she recommended What We Talk About When We Talk About Rape. According to her, it was not just the best book about sexual trauma but also the best one about sexual relationships.
The author offers a holistic approach to the topic of sexual violence, including personal experiences, systemic issues, and cultural attitudes.
If you’re interested in the book, you should also check out the newsletter Womaning in India. You’ll experience life in India through the eyes of a woman who doesn’t shy away from difficult topics.
How many Vietnamese non-war movies do you know?
For most people, this number is zero.
If you want to change that, check out these 10 Vietnamese movies by local directors.
Get ready for a romantic, hilarious, and touching movie experience!
A Man Called Ove follows the story of an utterly grumpy and depressed elderly man who initially wants to kill himself. But along the way, after a series of funny events, he regains his optimism towards life and makes new friends.
A charming romantic comedy full of delightful Swedish humor and poignant moments awaits; it’s sure to be worth your time! See what made this little indie film turn into an international success.
The correct prayer is never a prayer of supplication but one of gratitude.
When you thank God in advance for what you choose to experience in your reality, you, in effect, acknowledge that it is already there.
Thankfulness is thus the most powerful statement; an affirmation that even before you ask, it has already been answered.
Therefore never supplicate. Appreciate.
Conversations with God – Neale Donald Walsch
