As Real Simple’s contributing books editor, I read for a living. This means combing through the tons of books that come out each month to decide what to recommend to our readers. It’s always hard to whittle down the list (there are so many good ones!), but a few times a year a book blows me away to such a degree that I can’t stop telling my friends about it, chatting it up on social media, and thinking about it while I’m walking my dogs or doing the dishes. This summer, that book is Culpability by Bruce Holsinger. The novel opens on a Maryland highway, where the Cassidy-Shaw family is traveling to a lacrosse tournament. The eldest child, Charlie, who’s just finished high school, is the star of his team and has committed to playing at the University of North Carolina in the fall. He’s in the driver’s seat of the car…but he’s not exactly driving, because their minivan is a SensTrek, a (fictional) state-of-the-art self-driving vehicle. Noah, the dad, is riding shotgun and typing away on his laptop. Lorelai, the mom, a renowned leader in artificial intelligence, is busy working in the backseat. The family’s two tween daughters, Izzy and Alice, are engrossed in their screens. Suddenly, their minivan collides with an oncoming car. The Cassidy-Shaws all survive, but the elderly couple in the other vehicle are killed. How did it happen? Who’s at fault? If the car was self-driving, can Charlie be held responsible? Isn’t the whole point of this technology to keep accidents from happening at all? These are the dizzying questions plaguing the family when they head to a vacation rental on the Chesapeake Bay a few weeks later to rest and recover from the accident. Noah is trying to normalize things as much as he can, despite the looming police investigation that threatens his son’s future. Yet it’s impossible to drown out the moral dilemmas that have changed the family. On the one hand, if they didn’t fully control their car—if they’d given up their autonomy in favor of technology that was supposed to be safe and reliable—how can they be held accountable? On the other hand, two people are dead. The provocative questions only become more complicated and compelling when Noah and Charlie paddleboard by the neighbor’s property in the cove next door, and discover that it’s owned by a famous tech billionaire. It doesn’t take Charlie more than a minute to notice the billionaire’s gorgeous daughter standing on the shoreline. Less than 24 hours later, the two teens fall headfirst into a summer romance, and that’s when Noah notices his wife’s odd behavior. Does she know the tech mogul next door through her work? In what way? As the week slowly passes, amid swimming and family dinners, glasses of wine and pitchers of lemonade, it starts to become clear that each of the Cassidy-Shaws is holding on to secrets that could implicate them in the crash. Culpability is a family drama and a thriller, a heartwrenching emotional story and a meditation on our digital age. It’s the kind of novel I love to recommend because it will appeal to every kind of reader—your book club will love it, as will your neighbors, your parents, and the teenagers in your life. Its cinematic storyline will have you by the throat and keep you furiously turning the pages, all while making you ask big questions about how our technology is intersecting with our humanity. This is the book you’ll be desperate to talk about while you’re beside the pool, and dying to press into somebody else’s hands once you’ve closed the final, chlorine-splattered page. It’s the most of-the-moment novel I’ve read all year, and it’s the book of the summer.

It's the time of year when you swap serious books for beach reads, and opt for a cool, casual outdoor get-together instead of a fancier dinner party. So maybe it's time to lighten up your watchlist too. That means scrapping those dark, depressing dramas and looking for things that are fun, or at least a little bit juicy—bonus points if they include beachy destinations and plenty of eye candy. No matter what kind of summer vibe you're hoping to rock this year, there's a summer movie or show to binge watch for you. P.S. Feel free to bookmark this list for January, when we're all wishing for a little taste of summer. If your summer vacation plans are a little meh If your summer plans are more about a staycation than summer travel that involves a passport stamp and a long flight, you can at least eat up a little gorgeous summery scenery as you binge watch. Follow award-winning actor (and major foodie) on a rambling, Emmy-winning multi-season tour of Italy—no passport required. The Reluctant Traveler With Eugene Levy This hilarious series features comedian and very reluctant traveler Eugene Levy traveling everywhere from the Maldives to Costa Rica to Tokyo to expand his horizons (however uncomfortably). Where to watch: Apple TV+ The Lost City The lush gorgeousness of the Dominican Republic stands in for the hidden jungle paradise in this rom-com adventure story. Sandra Bullock plays a reclusive bestselling author who is kidnapped by a billionaire (Daniel Radcliffe) to help him find the Lost City from her novels. Both her cover model (Channing Tatum) and a former CIA operative (Brad Pitt) attempt to rescue her—so there's plenty of eye candy to go around. Where to watch: Paramount+ Love and Gelato It's a tried-and-true formula: young woman goes on adventurous trip to a gorgeous European capital and has to decide between two dashing young romantic prospects. But this charming movie, based on the novel by Jenna Evans Welch, sets its sights on the incomparably romantic city of Rome. (Just make sure you have a little Italian feast and some gelato stashed in the freezer for your watch party.) Where to watch: Netflix Mamma Mia Mix together frothy ABBA music, incredible Greek beaches, and Meryl Streep singing and dancing—and you have the recipe for a perfect summer movie night. Where to watch: Hulu Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown Follow the late chef and traveler on adventures in some off the beaten path places in this award-winning and beloved travel series. Where to watch: HBO Max If you're craving real-life summer excitement Not all documentaries are dark and serious. And these real-life stories will definitely have you thinking summer. Class Action Park If thrill rides are your speed, this bonkers documentary about one of the most legendary—and dangerous—theme parks ever created may be right up your alley. Where to watch: HBO Max Summer of Soul This Oscar-winning documentary by musician-filmmaker Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson covers the epic six-week festival that went under the radar in 1969, with classic performances by Stevie Wonder, Nina Simone, Sly & the Family Stone, Gladys Knight & the Pips, Mahalia Jackson, B.B. King, The 5th Dimension, and many more. Where to watch: Hulu and Disney+ If you want that last day of school vibe Remember that last day of school, when you have that long stretch of lazy summer ahead of you? Get that feeling back (if only for a couple of hours). Dazed and Confused The entire plot of this movie is "kids in the '70s party after the last day of school." Hidden in that description is a whole lot of heart and smarts, and all the drama you'd expect from a group of teenagers running wild (fights, romance, immature pranks, and generous helpings of beer and weed, all set to a killer '70s soundtrack). Shout out to Matthew McConaughey's smarmy performance as that 20-something guy who's still hanging out with high schoolers. Where to watch: Amazon Prime Stranger Things Now's the time to indulge your spooky side with an epic binge with the crew from Hawkins in the lead-up to the series finale this fall. (Or just get that summery vibe from season 3, which offered served up classic '80s summer alongside the spooky chills.) Where to watch: Netflix Say Anything Underachiever Lloyd Dobler gets his dream girl (class valedictorian Diane Court) to agree to a single date—and an epic summer romance —in this late '80s teen classic. Where to watch: HBO Max Wet Hot American Summer: 10 Years Later Even if you never caught the hilarious original sendup of the 1980s summer camp movie, you'll still find a lot of fun in this limited series—including seeing stars like Paul Rudd, Amy Poehler, Elizabeth Banks, Adam Scott, and Kristen Wiig sporting some seriously ridiculous early 1990s ensembles. Where to watch: Netflix If you want some soapy summer drama It's summer! Trade in your dark The Last of Us fandom for something a little less grim. Sirens This wicked new Netflix drama has everything you need for a superb summery drama—a dreamy cast (including Julianne Moore, Kevin Bacon, Meghann Fahy, and Milly Alcock), plenty of gorgeous fashion and scenery, and a lot of steamy drama. Where to watch: Netflix Daisy Jones and the Six If concerts and rock music are your summer vibe, you'll want to catch this series based on the best-selling novel, which follows a Fleetwood Mac-esque band on the road to superstardom. Where to watch: Amazon Prime. Outer Banks Tthis popular beachy Netflix series takes the crew back to their OBX origins to search for Blackbeard's treasure, before they adventure off to Morocco for more wild escapes. Where to watch: Netflix The White Lotus Take your pick of incredible beachy destinations—all filled with death and drama in addition to the drop-dead-gorgeous scenery. Opt for season one in Hawaii, season two in Sicily, or the latest season 3, in Thailand. Where to watch: HBO Max Dead to Me This darkly funny Netflix series is essentially a girl-buddy film—with gorgeous California scenery, a few deaths, and some serious plot twists thrown in. Where to watch: Netflix Big Little Lies Death visits a group of uber-moms living in grand homes in Monterey—but a lot of the drama comes from affairs, party invitation snubs, and a controversial production of Avenue Q. Where to watch: HBO Max In this twisty she said-she said thriller, it's not quite clear which girl is telling the truth about a kidnapping and its aftermath. Where to watch: Hulu If summer chills are more your thing Halloween isn't the only scary time of year—some of the most popular horror movies of all time have a summery vibe. Jaws The classic summer blockbuster turns 50 this year—and may make you feel a little less sad if your summer plans don't include a beach vacation. (Fair warning that you and your crew will likely be saying "We're gonna need a bigger boat" for weeks after the airing.) Where to watch: Peacock Friday the 13th The original summer camp slasher is definitely worthy of a rewatch—as counselors at Crystal Lake meet some pretty horrifying ends. Where to watch: kanopy I Know What You Did Last Summer Teenagers do the most ridiculous things—like running over someone and dumping the body. This series is a reboot of the equally fun summer horror classic. Where to watch: Amazon Prime Scream Have a binge fest of this slasher movie series—whether you opt for the original crew or the reboot. Where to watch: HBO Max If you're having a summer movie marathon—or binge watch—with the kids You can break out the popcorn over pretty much anything on Disney+, from Pixar flicks and Disney classics to all the Marvel and Star Wars content. But whether you're looking for an under-the-radar Disney option—or more family-friendly summer movies or shows to enjoy—check out these options. Phineas and Ferb Phineas and Ferb have had way more than 104 days of summer vacation over their 5 fun seasons—and the latest one just dropped if you can't get enough of their antics, evil Dr. Doofenschmirtz, and tattletale big sister Candace. (P.S. This'll be a show you'll likely enjoy just as much as your kids do—and it might encourage them to take their own adventures beyond the screens this summer.) The Summer I Turned Pretty Based on the bestselling novel by Jenny Han, this sweet series follows nearly 16-year-old Belly Conklin on a romantic summer at the beach with her family. Think Elin Hilderbrand for the tween and teen set. This multi-season series will give you something to watch all summer long. Where to watch: Amazon Prime Luca This under-the-radar (but totally charming!) Pixar-created tale follows a young sea monster who secretly lives his best summer life on the Italian Riviera. Where to watch: Disney+ Jurassic Park Sure, there's a more modern reboot of this dinos-gone-wrong series, but why not start your kids off on the classic series? They still feature some pretty epic effects long before the CGI renaissance. Where to watch: Peacock Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants Follow four teen friends on their summer adventures—all linked by a pair of pants they share between them. (And enjoy some early-career performances by Blake Lively, America Ferrara, Alexis Bledel, and Amber Tamblyn.) Where to watch: For rent on Amazon Prime and Apple TV+

What better way to celebrate the start of summer than with the many movies that just launched on Netflix? Get into the warm weather mood with us by selecting one (or all!) of the movies that have made their way to Netflix this June. This curated list balances summer nostalgia with some options that feel new and fresh. 1. Bee Movie You’re not the only one who associates summer with those feel-good animated movies you watched as a kid. And with the Bee Movie making its way to Netflix this month, you can get cozy in front of the TV and watch this hilarious and wholesome film. When Barry the Bee graduates from college and decides not to work in honey production, he leaves the hive and befriends a human (a cardinal sin in the bee world!). What he learns is that humans have been stealing and profiting off of honey for centuries, leading him to his true calling: ensuring justice for his community. 2. The Great Outdoors This 1988 classic is the perfect movie to watch with friends and family. When a Chicago family heads for their summer vacation, their lakeside getaway is crashed by their in-laws. What starts out as a relaxing vacation leaves the family at odds with relatives they’re not so close with—and the rest is for them to figure out. 3. Neighbors Zac Efron and Seth Rogen star in this comedy about a young couple suffering from arrested development who’ve been forced to live next to a fraternity house. There’s just one problem: they just had a newborn baby, and there’s no way they can survive on frat row. When they’ve had enough with the noise complaints, parties, and disruptive behavior, all hell breaks loose. You won’t stop laughing for the duration of this 90-minute dramedy. 4. Us Horror movie fans might not believe there’s a summer movie made for them, but that’s entirely untrue—summer vacation is the best time for some haunting plotlines. Us follows a family of four on their summer vacation at an isolated cabin. Unfortunately, their worst fears come true when a masked family of four—who appear identical to each of them—begins circling the house, eventually cornering them inside their home and leaving them in a fight for survival. You won’t leave the edge of your seat while watching this perfect summer horror directed by Jordan Peele. 5. Boys on the Side This 1995 dramedy featuring Whoopi Goldberg, Drew Barrymore, and Mary-Louise Parker follows three newly acquainted friends on a cross-country trip from New York to LA. Each friend carries their own set of problems needing to be solved, and only with the help of one another will they reach their goals. You’ll laugh and cry during this summer watch, and it might even make you yearn for some time with your girlfriends.

Traditional book clubs aren't for everyone. Maybe the idea of assigned reading isn't your thing, or you find the group discussions awkward or tedious. Or you just never have time to read the book! Upending the "choose a book, read it on your own, then get together to talk about it" format, a Silent Book Club takes the opposite approach: Members gather in a public space (bar, library, park, bookstore), pull out whatever book they've brought with them, and simply…read together. While most meetings include socializing before and after the structured reading period, there's no pressure to join in, and there are no rules about what to talk about. Basically, it's an introvert's dream. The idea started with two friends at a wine bar in San Francisco in 2012. Over drinks, Guinevere de la Mare lamented to Laura Gluhanich that the novel her book club had chosen was a drag to read. "I didn't want to finish it, yet it felt like I had this homework assignment. And I had a 2-year-old, so I was getting no reading done at home. I said, 'I wish I had a book club where you could just get some time to read,'" Guinevere recalls. "Laura was like, 'I love this idea! Let's make it happen.'" The two of them began incorporating quiet reading time into their wine-bar meetups, then they expanded to include more friends, who spread the word to their friends, and in 2015, Guinevere and Laura launched an official Silent Book Club organization. Today, there are almost 1,300 Silent Book Club chapters in the U.S. and close to 1,700 worldwide, on every continent except Antarctica. Though the organization has been around for a decade, the trend has really taken off in the past couple of years: According to Eventbrite data, the number of Silent Book Club events grew by 223% between 2023 and 2024, with attendance rising by 180%. Intrigued? Read on for more details on how Silent Book Clubs work and how to take part. What Happens at Silent Book Club …stays at Silent Book Club. Just kidding. In fact, the vibe is open and welcoming, and all meetings are free to attend and take place in a public spot. "We're very committed to making it inclusive and accessible to all," Guinevere says. "Our main goal is community building." Attendees are generally a mix of friends and strangers, who convene at a library, in a bookstore, at a cafe or bar, in a park, or even online. "Typically meetings are two hours long," Guinevere says. "The first 30 minutes is for socializing—you arrive, you sit down, you share what you're reading. Then you have an hour of uninterrupted reading. At the end, there's another 30 minutes where you can chat about the experience." However, the structure is loose, and Guinevere says that local organizers have free rein to set the cadence. "We always tell organizers, 'Do what works for you.'" In Indianapolis, Kelsey Jones has been organizing Silent Book Club events for three years, and usually about 100 people show up to each one. She switches up the venue—hotel, distillery, public gardens, etc. "We do a 90-minute meetup every month, and we start with silent reading for 30 or so minutes. People naturally start talking after that. So the last hour is then either continue reading if you want, or socialize." On Martha's Vineyard, Jeff Levy recently started a chapter at a local bookstore called Bunch of Grapes. The bookstore's owner opens her shop after hours to attendees and gives guests 20% off books. "On an average night, it's 10 or 12 people," he says. "Reading is from 5:30 to 6:30, and then we walk two doors down to a restaurant. Anyone who wants to hang out afterward can come, or they can just leave. And the conversation at dinner is rarely about books, which is kind of funny. Often it's about the state of the world." Guinevere notes that an emerging trend is audiobook walks. "People will meet at a trailhead, then go on a hike while listening to audiobooks. Afterward they'll gather and have a picnic." So as long as you're reading in some form or another, and allowing others to join you, you're doing Silent Book Club right. Why People Love It While Silent Book Club is nicknamed "introvert happy hour," the communal aspect is part of what makes it special. Briana Parker, who hosts a club at her Brooklyn bookstore, Lofty Pigeon Books, says, "It's good for introverts and for people who want a social element. You can be around people without being pushed to interact with them in a specific way. The whole thing is very organic and very low-pressure." Jeff notes, "It's not like just going to a library with a bunch of other people, because there's that time to be social." (If you want!) It's also a judgment-free zone, Kelsey says. "It doesn't matter if you're listening to an audiobook or you have an e-reader or a hardback. It's inclusive of all types of readers and all genres. There's no discrimination about what you're reading. I love that it's a space to get recommendations, learn about new authors, and just have that sense of community with fellow book lovers." Another major benefit, of course, is the chance to read, which can be hard to come by in our distraction-filled world. "I'm one of those people who used to read a ton and have been negatively impacted by screen time," Jeff says. "So I love the enforced reading time." Many of Briana's club-goers appreciate the same thing: "A lot of people say this is a way to have a longer attention span. They're like, 'When I'm at home, I keep pulling out my phone. But here I feel weird about doing that. I'm forced to focus on my book.'" Yet even avid at-home readers enjoy the gatherings. "I do read at home by myself quite a bit," Briana says, "and I didn't think I would have needed something like this." (She started the club because two customers, who craved more time to read away from home and their young children, asked her to.) "And yet I love it. There's something about everyone doing the same task together that gives you that great feeling of community. You look around the room and everyone's just quietly reading, and it's this beautiful sight." How to Join a Club or Start Your Own To find a chapter near you, visit the Silent Book Club official site, which offers an interactive map and links to the chapters' websites. Many groups also publicize events on Eventbrite, where attendees can get a (free) ticket and invitation details and reminders. You're not committing to be part of a club—you can go to just a single event if you'd like. "Meetings are a mix of regulars and people who come once to check it out," Briana says. To start your own chapter, register through the Silent Book Club site, which gives detailed instructions. If you're a business owner like Briana, you can host meetings at your venue; otherwise, Kelsey recommends connecting with local businesses before you launch. "Establish that relationship and have a venue that will agree to host you every month, or maybe you have two or three venues that are your go-tos and you bounce around," she says. As the organizer, you also set the overall tone and decide how much time to devote to reading versus socializing. You can ring a bell when reading time starts, or just let it happen naturally. "I was worried about getting 40 people to quiet down all at once," Briana says. "But it's actually the opposite. People get there early and just start reading."

May is that perfect sweet spot where the high (yet breezy) temperatures make you want to sit near the sunlight, cold beverage in hand, and watch a movie. And with so many new releases added to Netflix recently, there will be no shortage of content to stream. Whether you’re a fan of romantic comedies, horror, or drama, there’s something for everyone in our latest edition of Netflix movies to watch this May. 1. Heart Eyes This May, you won't want to sleep on this romantic-horror-comedy. The story follows two coworkers who, by a twisted turn of events, are hunted by a masked killer that specifically targets couples. When they're forced to become allies, they choose to fight back—while welcoming you along for the ride. Plus, it just landed a spot on Netflix this week! 2. Exterritorial This German thriller has been buzzing on Netflix in multiple countries, and it's safe to say it will keep you on the edge of your seat. The story follows a soldier's son who vanishes at a U.S. consulate, forcing his mother to remain on the premises to search for him. Without realizing it, however, she ends up entangling herself in the conflict. 3. The Life List Sofia Carson stars in this romantic comedy that's perfect for kickstarting May. When a young woman is sent by her mother on a quest to complete a teenage bucket list, it leads her to discover long-kept family secrets and romance. 4. Con Mum While the story isn't fictionalized, this documentary will keep you guessing—and watching. It follows a chef whose life is turned upside down when a woman claiming to be his mother appears in his life. What he ends up discovering is more than he signed up for, but his story isn't even close to over. 5. La Dolce Villa What's better for May than a quick trip to Italy? La Dolce Villa follows an American father who travels to Italy in hopes of keeping his daughter from restoring an old villa. What he ends up finding, however, is beauty, magic, romance, and a deeper understanding of his daughter. 6. One of Them Days Keke Palmer is known for her incomparable talent and unbeatable humor—and in One of Them Days, she gets to show off both. When her boyfriend steals her rent money, Alyssa—played by R&B artist SZA—and her roommate, played by Palmer, scramble to find rent money in hopes of avoiding eviction. One viewer even claimed that "like great wine, this is just going to get better with age." 7. Havoc Last but not least, viewers are praising Havoc for its visual and audio effects, making it a piece of cinematography you won't want to miss. Starring Tom Hardy, the story follows a bruised detective who's forced into the criminal underworld in hopes of rescuing one politician's estranged son, leading to a uncontrollable web of lies and deceit.

With Mother's Day coming up fast—Sunday, May 11—it's time to start planning some epic Mother's Day activities to enjoy with your mom (or your own kids). If your mom's idea of a good time is watching some of the best shows on Netflix (or another favorite streaming service), a binge-watching session might be in order. Fortunately, we've done the work for you, pulling a list of mom-friendly shows or movies you can watch on and around Mother's Day—or any time of year. Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story This installment in the Bridgerton saga is likely to be a hit with your mom (if she likes very steamy material, that is!). This prequel showcases younger versions of Queen Charlotte, Lady Danbury, and Violet Bridgerton as they find their loves. (P.S. No kids allowed at the viewing!) Where to watch: Netflix Catherine Called Birdy The Last of Us star Bella Ramsey stars in this comedic movie about an independently minded young noblewoman determined to avoid a bad marriage, putting her at odds with her parents (and the rest of society). Where to watch: Amazon Prime Turning Red This adorable mother-daughter Pixar tale about a family cursed (or is it blessed?) to turn into red pandas is a perfect whole-family watch for Mother's Day. Where to watch: Disney+ Schmigadoon If your mom is a big fan of Broadway musicals, this comedic send-up of some of the classics (think Brigadoon, Oklahoma!, The Music Man, and more) by some of Broadway's best and brightest is definitely worth a look. The second season (clearly inspired by shows like Chicago and Cabaret) will have dropped all of its episodes just in time for a cozy Mother's Day binge-watch. Where to watch: Apple TV Wednesday The highly acclaimed (and uber-popular) fresh take on the Addams family features a teen Wednesday and her fraught relationship with her mom, Morticia, among other dramas. Where to watch : Netflix Everything Everywhere All at Once The time-twisting, mind-bending movie that won all the awards boils down to a cool family story—and one that the whole family will enjoy. Where to watch: Apple TV The Gilded Age For the mom who loves a good costume drama, this soapy story of the moneyed classes in late 19th century New York has plenty of scene-stealing acting by the likes of Christine Baranski, Cynthia Nixon, and Audra McDonald—and incredible eye candy scenery and costumes to enjoy. Where to watch: HBO Max Never Have I Ever Mindy Kaling is behind this wickedly funny comedy with plenty of heart, that follows an Indian-American teen, her cousin, and her mother, as they navigate life without her father. (Note that there is some mild sexual content, if that's something you're looking to avoid!) Where to watch: Netflix Ted Lasso It feels like they dropped the new season of this heartwarming fan favorite just in time for a Mother's Day binge-watch. (Or start from the beginning for a great rewatch!) Where to watch: Apple TV The Incredibles This epic family tale of superheroes is definitely worth a rewatch—especially if you or your mom need a reminder that even superhero moms struggle to stretch and juggle it all. (And don't forget the super sequel too.) Where to watch: Disney+ Otherhood You might have missed this star-packed comedy (think Angela Bassett, Patricia Arquette, and Felicity Huffman) about moms looking to reconnect with their adult sons. But if you're looking for an under-the-radar watch, this might be worth adding to your list. Where to watch: Netflix Brave This mother-daughter Disney-Pixar movie captures the complexity of the relationship between a teen and her mom, with all of that signature Disney magic. Where to watch: Disney+ Gilmore Girls Take another visit to Stars Hollow with your mom with this beloved classic show that's perfect for a Mother's Day binge-watch (perhaps over brunch?). Where to watch: Netflix Mamma Mia! The frothy Broadway show packed with classic ABBA tunes will get everyone up dancing this Mother's Day. Where to watch: HBO Max Yes Day If you're gathering the whole family (including smaller kids), this raucous family tale that showcases the craziness that can happen when the kids are in charge may be a perfect watch (and may inspire a fun family tradition as well!). Where to watch: Netflix Schitt's Creek If you and your mom haven't already watched this award-winning gem, it's about time you caught up with the fabulously funny Roses. (And if you have, it's definitely worthy of a rewatch!) While plenty of focus has been on real-life father and son Eugene and Dan Levy playing a down-on-their-luck father and son, watching the relationship blossom between Moira Rose and her daughter Alexis (played by Catherine O'Hara and Annie Murphy) will definitely be a Mother's Day highlight—not easily upstaged by the perfect gift. Where to watch: Hulu Moxie Looking for something you can watch with your mom and your teenage daughter? Amy Poehler plays the mom of a teen who discovers her (riot) grrl power to stand up against inequality in her high school. There are plenty of throwbacks to zine culture and '90s grunge—so break out the flannel and the black nail polish for this watch party. Where to watch: Netflix Mr. Mom Take her waaay back with this oldie but goodie, where mom Teri Garr goes back to work and thrives as an ad exec, leaving her newly unemployed husband (Michael Keaton) in charge of their three kids. Even though we've come a long way in the 40 years since the movie came out, you'll still see a lot that's a little too relatable. Where to watch: HBO Max Kim's Convenience This heartwarming comedy import from Canada tells the story of the Kim family, Korean immigrants to Canada who run a convenience store. And if your mom's a bit of a meddler, you'll probably see a lot to love (and laugh at), in the Kim family matriarch, Umma. Where to watch: Netflix Black-ish Spend Mother's Day with the Jackson clan in this beloved sitcom—you'll probably find quite a bit relatable in mom Bow's relationship with her family. Where to watch: Disney+, Hulu Dumplin' This Netflix Original is all about self-acceptance, a mother-daughter relationship, and some classic teenage drama: What's not to love? The movie follows Willowdean, a girl of unconventional beauty with a beauty queen—played by Jennifer Aniston—for a mom. Whether your relationship is sometimes strained or you're the best of friends, this sweet movie might help you appreciate it even more. Where to watch: Netflix Bird Box If you're the types to bond over horror films, turn to Bird Box, the story of a mother trying to get her two children to safety in a desperate dystopian world. Chilling and dark, it's not for the faint of heart, but if you and your mom can take a little thrill, it's sure to bring you closer together. Where to watch: Netflix This Is Us Odds are, you or your mom have probably already gone through boxes of tissues on the tearjerking saga of the Pearson clan, but if you're in the mood for a good cry on Mother's Day, this is the sweet story for you. Where to watch: Hulu Stranger Things For the mom who loves a little spooky with the sweetness, Stranger Things offers some excellent 1980s nostalgia—plus lots of mom-daughter/mom-son relationships to explore. Where to watch: Netflix Candy Jar For something sweet and mindless, turn to this teenage rom-com, which stars two competitive students forced to team up for a debate tournament, despite the urging of their ambitious moms. The movie follows the two students and their single moms, capturing their bonds while offering a look at what happens when you can't follow your dreams. Where to watch: Netflix Lady Bird Acclaimed director Greta Gerwig brought us this mother-daughter tale featuring stars galore (Saiorse Ronan, Laurie Metcalf, and Timothee Chalamet, just to name a few) and a perfect encapsulation of dealing with the changes during a teen's senior year. Where to watch: HBO Max Miss Americana If you're both Swifties and gearing up for her latest tour (or lamenting your lack of tickets), you'll appreciate this smart documentary on Taylor Swift and the production of her album, Lover. Swift has long talked about her close relationship with her mother, and watching the two of them in action—while getting an inside look at Swift's superstar life—is a great way to spend down-time together. Where to watch: Netflix Anne with an E You may have read the Anne of Green Gables books together; if so, you'll love watching this recent series adaptation, which has the same heartfelt family moments and (adopted) mother-daughter lessons as the books. Where to watch: Netflix Great News This comedy follows a broadcast journalist who has finally gotten her big break—at the same time that her mom gets an internship at the same show. If your mom is a little overbearing and embarrassing—but you love her anyway, of course—you'll love watching and laughing at this show together. Where to watch: Apple TV Modern Family This beloved (and multi-award-winning) mockumentary-style sitcom features the three families in the Dunphy clan, and likely you'll find yourself reflected in one of the characters. (We're definitely giving off major Claire vibes.) Where to watch: Hulu One Day at a Time With three seasons available on Netflix, this family-oriented series follows a newly single mother raising her two children with a little so-called help from her own mom. If you're a mother, watching this sweet series with your mom will give you both a good laugh. Where to watch: Netflix

If your to-be-read stack is looking a little uninspired right now—or you find yourself perusing the shelves at the library or bookstore and find nothing that catches your fancy—perhaps you need a new way to find a good book. Enter the book blind date, which is the perfect opportunity to add a little adventure to your reading list, and maybe even happen upon your new favorite author or genre. Ready to get set up with a potential new (book) love? Here's the full scoop on book blind dates—including what it is, where to get set up, and how to plan your own book blind date party. What Is a Book Blind Date? As the name implies, you get "set up" with a book without being able to judge it by its cover. The book is wrapped up (generally in brown paper or a simple gift wrap) and the barest of descriptions is shared—so you can decide based on just a sense of the book's subject and style. (Or if you really want to go wild, you can always just grab one of the wrapped books without even looking at the description!) How to Get Set up on a Book Blind Date Since the book blind date concept has taken off, you'll find them available pretty much everywhere books are sold—and so they're often lovingly curated by people who know books best. (In other words, they're more likely to be a hit!) Check your local bookstore Seemingly every indie bookstore has a display of wrapped books with clever little descriptions—so go ahead and grab one! (You can even find them on some indie bookstore sites, such as New York's iconic bookstore, The Strand, which is currently offering several options, including the clever: "Squid Game Meets The Bachelor in This Dark Academic Satire!") Shop on Etsy Just type in "book blind date," and you'll find thousands of options among its sellers. In fact, Etsy says that searches for "book blind date" have surged in recent years. And bonus: Some creative sellers even include book-related goodies to enjoy while you're reading. So even if the book's a dud, you might enjoy the tea or bookmark that came with it. Visit your library Yep, you can get set up on a totally free book blind date! Many public libraries follow the trend and add that element of surprise to your book selection. Check out the big retailers Even the biggest book retailers, such as Barnes & Noble and Amazon, are selling blind date books—though you currently have to go to a local Barnes & Noble to find the blind dates. How to Plan a Book Blind Date Swap While you can get set up any time you want, why not make it even more fun and hook up your whole crew with their own book blind dates? It's the perfect excuse for a party—and here's how to make yours a success. Choose the guest list Obviously, your guests should be folks who enjoy reading—your book club definitely is a good start! You may want to ensure that you choose people with a range of ages and personalities, so you end up with a wide variety of intriguing books. Consider a theme Some swaps feature a theme to help guests narrow down which books they'd like to bring. Consider a few options to get you started: beach reads books that should be made into movies (but haven't) books you'd bring with you to a desert island books you didn't love—but you know someone else will scary books (that don't have to be horror!) time travel books books that should be a classic (but aren't—yet) Have guests write a short description of their book The key here is balance. The person who's setting up the blind date should give just enough detail to tantalize the potential reader, without giving away the whole plot. But, the description should give enough detail that someone who has already read the book would likely be able to tell. A few thoughts to help you write a good description: Compare it to something else—like a popular book, movie, TV show, or other reference. For instance, you might describe Lessons in Chemistry as Julia Child meets Marie Curie. Sell the story. Include info about what you loved. Was the plot twisty? Were the love scenes juicy? Did the characters feel like your new BFFs? Warn about any potentially problematic details. Some people are sensitive to violence, swear words, or racy content—so you may want to communicate that it's "spicy" in some way to avoid setting up your conservative pal with something that definitely won't be her cup of tea. Make it fun. No need to be serious! Add puns, jokes, or other details to add some humor. Have a few extra books on hand You don't want anyone going home unhappy. Ensure that there are additional books on hand, so even the last person who picks has plenty of options. Share from your own bookshelves You don't have to go out and buy a new book for the swap for your fellow book lovers (unless you simply can't bear to part with your favorite). This is the perfect time to pull a book (or five!) you loved—but probably won't read again—off of your own bookshelves to help share the wealth. Plus, that's an easy way to ensure that there are more than enough potential book blind dates. Decide how people will pick Some parties keep it casual and have guests mingle and spread the books around so they can check out the descriptions and grab one they'd like. You can also let the person with the next birthday pick first, then choose clockwise from there. Or do it secret Santa style: You can have each guest pick a book and read the description—and later pickers can force a swap if someone else's description sounded too amazing to pass up. Open the books together Once everyone's set up with their "date," have everyone unwrap their books at the party. That will help avoid someone going home with a book they already have, as they'll be able to swap with someone else or pick a new book from the extra options. Decide what to do with the extras Once everyone's set with their blind date book, extras can be distributed to people who want more than one date to take home—or they can be donated to a free library, a nursing home, or a hospital to provide good reads for people who need them.

On Saturday, April 12, the first full moon of spring will rise in the night sky, and it will look a bit different than the average full moon. Not, alas, because it will be pink—the color will be the same silvery white we're used to. But it will be tinier and dimmer, earning it the moniker of "micromoon." In fact, it will be the smallest full moon in all of 2025. Here's what a micromoon means, why this one is so small, why it's called a pink moon, and the best time to see it. What Is a Micromoon? A micromoon happens when a full moon is at its farthest distance from earth, the point on its elliptical path called the apogee. It's the opposite of a supermoon—when the moon appears especially large because it's closest to earth, or at its perigee. On Saturday, the moon will be 252,280 miles from earth, according to EarthSky (as opposed to the average 226,000 miles at its perigee). This will make the moon appear about 14% smaller than a supermoon and about 6% smaller than an average full moon. It's a subtle difference, but devoted moon watchers may decipher it. Why Is the April Micromoon the Smallest of the Year? Micro full moons happen about three times a year; the last one was on March 14, 2025, and the next one will be on May 12, 2025. However, micro full moons can occur at slightly different distances from the apogee. The one this Saturday will be the smallest of the three because the moon will be farther from the earth than the other two. In May, the full moon will appear when it's 251,828 miles from earth, so 452 miles closer than the April one. Why Is It Called a Pink Moon? The pink moon is nicknamed after pink wildflowers, called creeping phlox, that are native to eastern North America and bloom in early spring, according to the Old Farmer's Almanac. So the moon will not actually be pink; rather, it's a nod to the fact that it's the first full moon of spring. It's also known as the Paschal Moon because it sets the date for Easter. (Easter comes the Sunday after the first full moon of spring; because this one extends into Sunday, April 13, Easter is the following Sunday, the 20th.) Other nicknames include the Egg Moon, the Fish Moon, and the Sprouting Grass Moon, the Almanac reports. What Is the Best Time to See the Pink Micromoon? The moon will reach its full illumination at 8:22 p.m. ET. Check timeanddate.com for when the moon rises and sets in your location. The best time to see the moon is typically around sunset, when it appears most visible to us due to something called the moon illusion, according to NASA. Find an unobstructed viewpoint, look toward the eastern horizon, and enjoy.

Turns out, where you live (or grew up) might influence what type of book you love. Researchers at Cloudwards scoured Google Trends data to determine which genres captivate readers most across different states. The findings show an interesting geographical breakdown. According to the study, romance is the most popular genre in America, topping the list in 22 states! General fiction and poetry tied for second place, dominating in nine states each. Fantasy was strongest in six states, and family-themed literature in three. Interestingly, Massachusetts is the only state to prefer history, while Californians are unique in preferring mystery novels. To get their results, the researchers reviewed Google searches for common book genres over 12 months. "While search interest doesn’t always directly reflect purchasing behavior," they acknowledge, "it provides valuable insights into the reading habits of Americans." So...did your favorite genre rank highest in your state? See the full results below. Romance Reigns Supreme in 22 States Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, New York, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia, Wisconsin Romance literature has been surging in popularity recently, and these results reflect Americans' widespread love for the genre. Who doesn't crave a lighthearted read with a strong emotional payoff? "Romance readers are among the most voracious consumers of books, often reading multiple titles per month," the study notes. Check out books by Jasmine Guillory, Emily Henry, and Julia Quinn if you're looking for something new. Poetry Is an Unexpected Hit in 9 States Alaska, Idaho, Maine, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont The study just looked at what genres people search for, not necessarily what they're buying, but it's notable that poetry ranked as a top interest in nine states. The study points out that many of these states are known for striking landscapes, which may have something to do with the preference. The authors added, "This poetry revival might be linked to the rise of Instagram poets and the growing popularity of poetry as a form of social expression." Fiction Casts a Wide Net in 8 States and D.C. Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Hawaii, Montana, South Dakota, Washington, D.C., West Virginia, Wyoming It's a bit of a surprise that this category doesn't rank higher in more states, given how broad a category it is. The researchers put science fiction, historical fiction, fairy tales, classical literature, action, social realism, and magical realism under this umbrella. Thankfully, there's no shortage of books to choose from in this category—here are some of our favorite new ones coming out this year. Fantasy Literature Is Top in 6 States Michigan, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Texas, Washington The authors note that these states have big technology sectors and major universities. "It suggests that areas with strong innovation sectors have a higher interest in imaginative literature," they point out. This category includes authors like J.R.R. Tolkien, N.K. Jemisin, and George R.R. Martin. Family-Themed Literature Ranks High in 3 States Iowa, Mississippi, South Carolina This genre of fiction explores family ties, multigenerational connections, and heredity. The authors note that these three states are "known for strong community ties and traditional values," which may partly explain the appeal. Since family is a universal human interest, we imagine that residents of these states aren't the only ones who are fans of the genre! Check out books by Isabel Allende, Jane Austen, and Carolyn Hyunh for starters. Mystery Is Big in Just 1 State California It's hard to know why California stands alone in its love for mystery and suspense novels, but the study authors surmise that "the Golden State's affinity for mysteries may reflect its status as both the home of Hollywood noir and the setting for countless classic detective novels." Mystery and suspense are certainly beloved by many—in fact, here is a list of some of our favorites in the genre. History Also Gets Love from Just 1 State Massachusetts People from Massachusetts search most for historical literature, which includes biographies and other nonfiction narratives. "This unique preference aligns perfectly with the state's status as a cornerstone of American history," the study notes. Smart choice: As fun as it is to escape from the world with fiction, learning about real-life events is just as engaging.

Spring has arrived—and while the warm weather may entice you to get outside, the new season also presents an opportunity to sprawl on the couch, cold drink in hand, and watch your favorite seasonal movies. While binge-worthy TV shows are a popular selection for those craving comfort and nostalgia, Netflix’s plethora of feel-good movies can help you say goodbye to winter blues and hello to spring sunshine. Read on for the eight best Netflix movies to help get you in the mood for spring. 8 Netflix Movies to Help Get You in the Mood for Spring 1. Mother of the Bride What’s a better way to celebrate spring than with a destination wedding? In this romantic comedy, Brooke Shields and Miranda Cosgrove star as mother and daughter attending Cosgrove’s wedding in Thailand. When her mother realizes the groom’s father is the man who broke her heart years ago, things start to go awry—in the best way possible. 2. Book Club Four friends who meet weekly for their book club decide to stray from their usual picks to read something a bit more risqué—50 Shades of Grey. As they read along, they’re inspired to take charge of their own relationships, and end up finding pleasure and excitement in unexpected ways. 3. That Kind of Love If you’re partial to subtitles or international films in general, this feel-good romance will give you butterflies as we head into spring. The story follows a dating coach and her corporate executive client as they search to find his perfect match—but when they start learning more about each other, things take an unexpected turn. 4. Along for the Ride Nothing screams the start of warm weather like a romantic comedy set along a seaside town. It’s Auden’s last summer before college, and although she doesn’t expect much from visiting her father’s quiet beach town, she ends up meeting Eli. The two embark on an adventure-filled journey together—but when it’s finally time to leave for school, she struggles to say goodbye. 5. Anyone But You In this adaptation of Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing, we meet Ben and Bea, two singles who have an amazing first date and become archnemeses all in the span of 24 hours. When they’re forced to meet again at a destination wedding in Australia, they decide to play up their romantic history by pretending to be a real couple. This romantic comedy is heartwarming, exhilarating, and packed with enough sunlight to get you excited for the warm season ahead. 6. Someone Great This springtime romantic comedy will have you crying, laughing, and on the edge of your seat. The story follows Jenny, a music journalist experiencing her first real heartbreak. With help of her two best friends—and their passion for NYC nightlife—she learns how to be happy on her own, all the while reminiscing about her last relationship. 7. Happiness for Beginners March is the start of hiking season, and if you’re an outdoorsy person (or even if you’re not!), this heartwarming comedy will inspire you to take on new adventures. Following her divorce, 32-year-old Helen Carpenter signs up for a wilderness survival course—only to find out that she’s not as lost as she might think. Plus, there’s enough romance packed into this film to make you feel giddy. 8. The Lorax Welcome spring with a family-friendly animated film that will lift your spirits. The story—made of equal parts romance, comedy, and environmentalism—follows Ted and Audrey, as they seek out to find a Truffula tree in their town devoid of nature. To understand why the town has no flowers and trees, Ted tells us the story of The Lorax, the former guardian of the forest who let greed take over his passion for nature.