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Best books for the beach (or bed)

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MARCH 21, 2017

Whether you’re chilling in Cabo, or hanging at home, spring break isn’t complete without a good book. Hear us out — we at the Clog know that you’re probably tired of reading, but these books will be sure to entertain you more than your economics textbook does.

For the molecular and cell biology major who’s also woke: “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” by Rebecca Skloot

Have you heard of Henrietta Lacks? What about HeLa cells? No and no? That’s OK, Rebecca Skloot’s account of her search for information on Henrietta will fill you in.

Short synopsis: Henrietta, a Black woman living in Baltimore, Maryland, developed (and ultimately died from) cervical cancer. Doctors at Johns Hopkins University took a sample of her tumor without her knowledge and made immense profits from it, without sharing any of the proceeds with Henrietta’s family. Skloot chronicles her investigation into Henrietta, her family and the way HeLa cells transformed the world of science.

For the “Dexter”-obsessed Blair Waldorf worshipper: “Psycho Killer” by Cecily von Ziegesar

Sometimes you don’t want to think too hard about the book that you’re reading. In that case, pick up this continuation of Cecily von Ziegesar’s popular “Gossip Girl” book series. Fair warning: “Psycho Killer” is violent and gory — and hilariously fucked up.

Short synopsis: What if the cast of the characters from “Gossip Girl” spent all of their time plotting (and executing) gory murders of each other, in addition to their usual depravity?

For the manic-pixie-dream-detective: “Where’d You Go, Bernadette?” by Maria Semple

Seattle dwellers, this one’s for you.

Short synopsis: Bernadette Fox, erratic architect and mom, has gone missing, and her daughter, Bee, is on the case. Hang on for an exploration of Seattle (and the world!), as well as an investigation of both Bee and her mother.

So, kick back, relax and pick up a book for fun this break, Bears. See you in a week!

Contact Jamie Campbell at [email protected].
LAST UPDATED

MARCH 21, 2017