With both Easter and Passover happening this week, we’re invited to reflect on past suffering, and to ask ourselves how we can best prevent it in the future. The dropping of the world’s largest non-nuclear bomb this week ironically and painfully coincided with this week of reflection. Second World War veteran Kildare Dobbs writes in his searing anti-war manifesto in Reading the Times, “To think about any kind of warfare with less than the whole of our mind and imagination is obscene. This is the worst treason.” So, how do we stop thinking about war in the abstract? We must connect with the people who are suffering on a human level, and one of the best ways to do that is to read their stories. This week’s book club invites you to read difficult but rewarding volumes that chronicle genocide and attempted genocide, survival, and a human spirit that can be both unspeakably disturbing and impossibly beautiful. These books encourage us to say “never again,” and mean it.
Oprah Winfrey's January Book Club Pick Is The Hopeful Self-Improvement Book You've Been Waiting For
Oprah Winfrey's book club is known for having exquisite reading picks, and the book she's chosen for the first month of 2025 is no different. The first week of January has already been challenging to say the least, ushering in loss and despair for some of us. While it's not a total fix, self-improvementbooks can help us get more in tune with ourselves during times like this — and Oprah Winfrey's January book club pick, A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose by Eckhart Tolle, is perfect for that.
We think it's an excellent choice since more of us are looking for ways to tap into our inner humanity so we can see a little more patience and empathy.
Here's all the details about Oprah Winfrey's book club pick for January, A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose.
Harpo, Inc / Chris Frawley
In collaboration with Starbucks, Oprah Winfrey shared her January pick, A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose on The Oprah Podcast January 7. She and Eckhart Tolle shared a conversation about the concepts in his book while onstage at the Starbucks Reserve Empire State Building. A live audience was in attendance and shared a few laughs as the renowned host and author talked about how we can transform our lives.
You can watch the full podcast episode here!
Amazon
A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose by Eckhart Tolle
Eckhart Tolle is expounding on his teachings in The Power of Now to help us finally stop making "ego-based" decisions. He feels it's time for us to live a life that's not governed by flighty definitions of happiness while also sharing ways we don't have to experience as much as mental or emotional pain.
In a world that feels more divided than ever over every little thing, we think it's a great read for those who are anxious to see a change. As this book proves, the work starts within ourselves.
Looking for more to read? Add Jenna Bush Hager's January book club pick to your TBR list next!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
After his breakout role as Spencer Dutton in 1923, and his take on Atlas in Colleen Hoover's viral It Ends With Us(opposite Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni), there's a very good chance you'll recognize Brandon Sklenar. And if not, it won't take long. In addition to his upcoming roles in thrillers The Housemaid and Drop, the actor will lead a brand new biopic about Olympic rowing champion Brad Alan Lewis (which feels very timely considering his Housemaid costar Sydney Sweeney is starring as boxer Christy Martin!).
Here's everything you need to know about Brandon Sklenar's Brad Alan Lewis biopic, The Olympian.
'The Olympian' script has been a favorite since 2016.
Based on Brad Alan Lewis' Assault on Lake Casitas, the movie follows Brad, who has one last opportunity to compete as a rower in the 1984 Olympics before he ages out. But when he loses his spot on the Olympic team, Brad pairs up with fisherman Paul Enquist to go rogue, beating the official Olympic boat in the national trials and winning America its first gold medal in rowing since 1964. Talk about an underdog story!! (Plus 2+ hours watching Brandon row? Yes please).
Despite the fact the movie's never been made, The Olympian script was on The 2016 Black List, an annual list of popular screenplays that have yet to be turned into movies. But it's finally writer-director Tony Tost's time.
And it's the perfect movie to watch before the 2028 Olympics.
It's still super early in the moviemaking process, meaning we don't have too many details, but considering the 2028 Olympics will once again be held in Los Angeles, there's no better time to bring this inspiring true story to the big screen!
We don't have info on The Olympian cast or release date quite yet, but stay tuned for everything you need to know about this new movie.
Next month, you can watch Brandon in 1923 season 2, which hits Paramount+ February 23 and is the "best thing" the actor's ever read.
"The finale of the series is probably one of the best things I’ve read in my life," he told Forbes. "I’ve kind of known how it was going to end since day one — Taylor [Sheridan] kind of told me. I knew the full arc of Spencer from day one, so in shooting part one, you're mindful of where he needs to go. I’m really excited."
Considering I haven't been able to stop talking about this show since I binged all of season 1 in a couple days, I'm really excited too, Brandon.
Thankfully there are quite a few new Brandon Sklenar movies on the horizon. Hoping to see him as Atlas Corrigan again? Here's what he had to say on a potential It Starts With Us movie.
Jenna Bush Hager's New Book Club Pick Is A Family Drama That "Will Sweep You Off Your Feet"
What is it about family sagas that seem to make book clubs more interesting? Maybe it's because we know interpersonal relationships can be a little dysfunctional. It could be that we still don't know how to communicate with the people we love the most. Even if we love our parents and siblings, reading about other families' fictional twists and turns gives us a rush of adrenaline.
So it's no wonder Jenna Bush Hager's January book club pick feels like something we can read without putting down. It's full of complicated relationship dynamics, love, and reconciling one's identity with their past. You can say it's the perfect read to kick off your 2025 reading goals!
Learn more about Jenna Bush Hager's 2025 book club pick and fall in love with one character's journey of self-discovery.
Amazon
The Life Cycle of the Common Octopus by Emma Knight
Penn should be excited about advancing her education at the University of Edinburgh, but she can't stop thinking about the secret her parents have been keeping from her. For some reason, she believes she'll uncover it while she's in Scotland because Lord Lennox — her father's friend — is in the area.
Her hunger for the truth leads her to Lord Lennox's estate where she she starts mingling with his family and even discovers love in this moving novel.
Jenna Bush Hager's Thoughts About The Life Cycle of the Common Octopus
We hope you enjoy reading about Penn's journey in The Life Cycle of the Common Octopus and encourage you to check out Reese Witherspoon's January book club pick next!
Winter is undoubtedly here (boo, snow and cold!), but a whole new wave of weather means it’s time to step up not only your layering game, but your shoe game, too. From stylish tall boots to cozy lined house shoes, these 5 types of winter shoes are simply the perfect pairs to get you through the season in style.
Check out the 5 must-have winter shoe styles to keep your winter wardrobe looking and feeling fresh this year!
Free People
1. Tall boots
Tall boots are just that girl when it comes to winter outfits. They truly wear well alone, but for wintertime, they look especially stunning when you layer ‘em up with leggings or tights.
Free People
Jeffrey Campbell Katrina Pull-On Tall Boots
There are quite a few variations in design when it comes to tall boots, so you could snag them in a moto, cowboy boot, or sleek style.
Tecovas
Whatever tall boot style speaks to you the most and will be most practical for your needs will be perfect!
Blundstone
Blundstone All-Terrain Thermal Chelsea Boots
2. Snow boots
Snow boots are honestly non-negotiable if you live somewhere, well, snowy.
Nordstrom
Sorel Tivoli V Faux Fur Lined Waterproof Boots
Snow boots are designed with the cold in mind, so they’re often expertly insulated and boast reliable textured soles that won’t fail you on slippery ice.
Nordstrom
Sorel, UGG, Hunter, and Blundstone make some of my favorite snow boots since they still look effortlessly stylish, all while keeping your feet safe and warm!
SeaVees
3. Clogs
Where would I be without my clogs?! Seriously – they’re super helpful if I need to run a quick errand or take my dog for a brief walk outside. The best part about clogs is they’re extremely easy to put on and take off – no time for traditional laces over here!
I thoroughly enjoy this gardening-inspired pair from SeaVees because the soles are fitted with a good amount of traction to keep me from slip-sliding when I have to go out in the snow. They’re also waterproof, keeping my feet dry with every step.
Nordstrom
Chaco Ramble Water Resistant Puffer Clogs
Puffer styles like these are especially great if more warmth is what you’re seeking this season.
DSW
I also can’t recommend these Chacos clogs enough, since they’re remarkably durable and perfect for year-round wear.
Adidas
4. Reliable sneakers
Sneakers are a must no matter the season, but having a pair for winter can really depend on your season-specific needs. Whether it’s a running sneaker that’s primed for the gym’s treadmills or a more fashion-forward design that you want to rock with all of your ‘going out’ outfits, there’s a winter sneaker for everyone.
New Balance
I tend to shop sneakers for winter in more toned-down color palettes, since I typically wear more monochromatic ‘fits when the weather’s gloomy. I really adore my New Balance 530's since I can easily take them from a workout to a night out.
Nordstrom
5. Cozy house shoes
Finally, cozy house shoes should be a given when it comes to winter. I surely spend more time at home around this time of year, and when I’m hibernating, my toes get annoyingly cold! I know I'm not the only one, too.
Amazon
Dearfoams Chloe Soft Knit Clog Slippers
That’s where a good slipper or house shoe comes in – they exist to protect your feet from the elements, ensuring you stay cozy all season long.
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Valentine’s Day is essentially the holiday geared towards little treats – and what better way to ensure you get exactly what you want than giving your S.O. a not-so-subtle hint (AKA this curated Valentine’s Day gift guide). Our list of perfect V-Day gifts is packed full of the little treats you’ve got your eye on, plus some real swoon-worthy picks – from luxury skincare to decadent chocolates – that’ll truly make your day.
Scroll on for the best Valentine’s Day gifts you’ve been dreaming of!
Mutha
Mutha Body Butter
This luxe body butter is as rich as can be, and will instantly take first place over your current body lotion collection since it's clinically proven to improve skin tone, discoloration, stretch marks, and skin firmness. You'll especially love the 48-hour hydration factor.
Amazon
Steve Madden Goldie
This "glamorous and captivating" scent will make you feel so sexy on V-Day and beyond. In addition to floral and fruity notes, it has a gourmand effect that truly makes it stand out. Plus, the heart-shaped bottle is a perfect fit for the holiday.
Coach
Coach Tabby Shoulder Bag 26
You deserve to feel spoiled, and this shoulder bag will definitely fulfill that dream. Its durable construction and timeless color will be in your fashion rotation for years to come!
Nordstrom
Slip Lovely Lashes Pure Silk Contour Sleep Mask
This contoured sleep mask made of sleek silk allows you to get your best beauty sleep, all without disturbing your lashes. It's especially helpful if you have lash extensions!
Sephora
Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm
You already know the hype of this rich lip butter. Ask for your fave flavor for V-Day!
Compartés
Compartés I Love You Gift Box
Because a Valentine's Day without chocolate is like peanut butter without jelly.
Nordstrom
UGG Classic Ultra Mini Platform Boots
These are about to become *the* cozy boots that define each and every one of your winter outfits. We can't recommend 'em enough if you're all about that cozy life.
Birthdate
Birthdate Pendant
You can customize this pendant based on your exact birth date, so each one is unique from the other. This is perfect for all the astrology lovers out there, plus there's options for silver and gold for every kind of personal style!
Flamingo Estate
Flamingo Estate Roma Heirloom Tomato Candle
This bougie candle smells like pure heaven, so lighting it up every day will be a total treat. It's a tasteful departure from your typical Valentine's Day aromas, like vanilla and rose.
Dieux
Dieux Angel Face Duo
Your skin's gonna adore each of these products from Dieux – so grab the two at once! First up, the Baptism cleanser provides a gentle clean without stripping your skin's natural moisture. Next, the Instant Angel moisturizer swarms your skin in rich hydration, locking in beneficial moisture to keep you lookin' real glowy.
Adidas
Adidas Gazelle Bold Sneakers
This year's hottest sneaker style, all in a V-Day-ready colorway?! Yes, please.
Anthropologie
Anthropologie Icon Juice Glass
This heart-dotted glass will make drinking your morning coffees, matchas, and juices that much more joyful.
Smoosh
Smoosh Body Scrubber
This silicone body scrubber features a fun and unique design so that the coordinating bar soap is embedded within the piece. It still gives a great lather and will last you years without producing as much waste as a traditional loofah. We love this playful pink color to inspire a satisfying shower, every time.
Lush
Lush 'A Lush Kind Of Love' Gift Box
There's nothing like a Lush box when it comes to gifts. This V-Day-themed one includes 2 bath bombs, one Lush Bubbleroon, a body conditioner, a body wash, a body scrub, and a soap bar to fix up your next self-care night.
Maude
Maude Burn No. 3 Soy-Based Massage Candle
This is one of the best Valentine's Day gifts you can use in conjunction with your partner. The candle melts down to a soft, soy-based massage oil that only gets warm, not hot, so you can easily pour it out ahead of an at-home couple's massage (yes, please!) or simply for sexy time.
Glossier
Glossier You Eau de Parfum
This cult-fave perfume from Glossier sticks to your skin and magically adapts to smell like you. You'll be smellin' like a whole treat come V-Day.
Sephora
Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Serum
This luxury serum encourages nothing but a full-on glow by brightening the look of dark spots and evening skin tone.
New Balance
New Balance 530 Sneakers
Hot girl walks and errand outfits await you with these stunning sneaks from New Balance. They're equal parts comfy and cute, so you won't have to worry about sacrificing style for practicality when you wear 'em!
Typology
Typology T41 Replenishing Lip Balm
Upgrade your Chapsticks and Carmexes with this luxe lip balm that provides unmatched hydration using ceramides and hyaluronic acid. It comes in a practical clear shade, plus three more blush-y colors if you wish to have a stronger wash of color on your lips and cheeks.
Owala
Owala FreeSip
Hydration is key for health and happiness – make sipping more fun with this beloved bottle from Owala!
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.