In Case You Were Wondering, This Is What Happens When You Swallow a LEGO

Dec 24, 2018

As an adult, the most common LEGO-related injury you have to deal with is probably a sore foot caused by a stray piece you stumbled on in the dark. But when kids are involved, you might be less worried about the injuries you can see and more concerned about them swallowing one of those plastic pieces — not least because it means spending the next few weeks taking careful note of everything else that comes out of them to make sure the LEGO emerges safely.

In the name of soothing those fears, a new study published in the Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health set out to discover how long it takes for a LEGO head to pass through a digestive system and if any risks are involved. For insight on the research, we spoke to study co-author Dr. Tessa Davis, a consultant in pediatric emergency medicine at the Royal London Hospital, and co-founder of Don’t Forget the Bubbles, a website and conference dedicated to pediatric care whose team conducted the study. Warning: You might want to save this for later if you’re eating lunch (at least if you’re not munching on LEGO bricks).

The Background

Although the researchers applied scientific methodologies, the study itself is not your usual totally serious medical paper. “We were looking for a lighthearted study to do in the run-up to Christmas, but with a serious underlying message,” explains Davis. “Ingested foreign objects are a really common presentation to children’s emergency departments: I probably see around one child a day who has swallowed something they shouldn’t have.” As the authors note, previous research on the subject has mostly covered coins. They cite an earlier study which found that coins take 3.1 to 5.8 days to pass through a digestive system. However, that was from 1971, so it seemed like the time was ripe to revisit the issue with a toy that kids today are more likely to come into contact with.

The main point of the study, Davis tells us, was to set concerned parents’ minds at ease. “Parents often wonder when to worry and when not to bother. The reality is that most objects when swallowed don’t cause any harm — once they make it to your stomach, they will just pass out with no problems. If it gets stuck on the way down, then that’s a problem, or if you develop any symptoms of pain, vomiting, or constipation, that can suggest it’s causing a blockage. Most objects are fine, but something like button batteries or magnets can cause serious issues, and these will very likely need to be removed quickly — so parents must bring their kids to the emergency department.”

The Methodology

Using children as guinea pigs was obviously not an option, so six courageous adult participants stepped up to the task. In the study, the authors acknowledged the possibility that the results might be different in children, but added that “there is little evidence to support this” — if anything, the LEGO piece might make its way through a child quicker. The candidates all worked in pediatric hospital care, and were only considered eligible if they had not previously had gastrointestinal surgery… and were open to ingesting a LEGO head and then searching for it in the days afterward.

In the three days before swallowing the LEGO, each kept a diary monitoring their bowel movements, so the researchers could see if the quality and quantity would affect how long it took to pass the LEGO head. All participants swallowed their individual LEGO heads around the same time, between 7am and 9am, since time of day could affect digestion. They were then tasked with searching for it on its way out, using whatever method they chose. The main factor was how long it took the piece to reappear after swallowing it, a measurement the researchers called the Found and Retrieved Time (FART). (We know.)

It took an average of 1.71 days and an average of two bowel movements for the participants to recover their LEGO heads. The shortest time was 1.14 days (27 h 20 min), while the longest was 3.04 days (72 h 35 min). One unlucky participant had to continue with the experiment for two weeks before the researchers called off the search, assuming he would never find his LEGO head. “Either he missed it,” Davis notes, “or… it’s still up there.”

The Takeaway

As you can tell, the study was done in good humor, but the results do prove a useful point for parents and caretakers who have worried about a piece of LEGO that’s vanished into a kid’s mouth (and beyond). “The aim of the study was to reassure parents that most objects [when swallowed] are fine and that there is no point searching through your child’s poo to find them,” Davis reassures us. “If a respected academic pediatrician can’t find a LEGO head in his own stools, then who can?” That said, she emphasizes again that some objects and reactions are a cause for concern. “If your child swallows a button battery or a magnet, or has symptoms after swallowing an object, then please seek medical assessment.”

As for what’s next for the team, should they return to this subject, in the study, they suggest comparing coins and LEGO, preferably with some participants swallowing both at the same time, and also comparing different parts of LEGO figurines, including legs and bodies. “We’re considering upgrading to Duplo,” Davis adds.

In case you were worried, the brave participants who put their bodies on the line in the name of advancing our understanding of this important medical issue are doing fine. “We are all very proud of our involvement in this study,” says Davis, “and are glad it’s caused so many people to smile, as well as getting our message out there.”

What’s the weirdest thing you’ve known someone to swallow? Share your stories with us @BritandCo.

(Photos via Getty)

8 "Precious" Old Lady Baby Names Perfect For Your Little Girl

Now that so many parents continue to prefer ultra-modern and unique baby names, there's something super charming about turning to the past for inspiration.

Choices that were once considered "old lady" names are making a big comeback as more expectant moms and dads seek out classic picks with a retro feel. Not only do they have a clear sense of nostalgia, but they also offer elegance and individuality.

So, if you're considering selecting a name that's a bit old-fashioned yet full of character for your little one, here's a list of our top "old lady" options.

Scroll to see all the adorable old lady baby names we love for 2025!

1. Agnes

This classic girl's name has Greek roots and means "pure" or "holy." Its popularity can be traced back to Saint Agnes of Rome, and over the centuries, Agnes has been embraced across various cultures. That's why it has different forms in varying languages, such as Agnese in Italian and Inés in Spanish.

Aside from its historical significance, Agnes has a simple elegance to it that continues to resonate with parents around the globe.

2. Clara

With Latin origins, Clara is a feminine name that means "bright" or "famous" and can be a perfect fit for a baby girl with a future full of promise.

This pick stands out from other similar and more common names, like Claire and Clarissa. Plus, it has some ties to classic Hollywood, most notably because actress Clara Bow was a silent film star and "it girl" during the 1920s.

3. Edith

With British roots, Edith is a name that embodies resilience and grace. It means "prosperous in strife" and suggests your little one will stand strong and have a solid character when faced with adversity.

Historically, Edith is best known as the daughter of Edgar the Peaceful. She was a woman who balanced nobility, intellect, and deep faith while remaining unbothered by external judgment. That's why this name can encourage your baby girl to follow her heart and hold her own values above all else.

4. Frances

If you'd like to go the gender-neutral route, Frances is a great choice that has roots in both Latin and German. It carries meanings such as "of the Franks," "free man," and "truthful" or "sincere."

Frances originally emerged during the 17th century in Britain and is often considered the feminine version of Francis. It's since gained popularity across Europe and can even serve as a nickname for the longer Italian version, Francesca.

5. Harriet

German in origin, Harriet translates to "home ruler" and connotes leadership and authority. Its popularity in the United States has been largely influenced by Harriet Tubman, the iconic abolitionist whose courage helped lead countless enslaved people to freedom.

This name symbolizes strength, resilience, and the power to create change. Its powerful legacy is undeniable and can inspire your baby girl to make an impact on the world around her.

6. Louise

Louise might sound like a soft or elegant name, but it has strong and powerful roots that are perfect for a bold little girl.

This name is derived from the masculine Louis and means "renowned warrior." It's a fitting choice for parents who want to combine both grace and strength. Not to mention, it's tied to Irish Author Louise O'Neill, who is known for her powerful feminist novels.

7. Mabel

Next up is Mabel, an adorable name with Latin origins that means "lovable." Derived from Amabilis and Amabel, this moniker has been beloved across cultures. It also has roots in the Middle Ages and graced Dutch royalty, like Princess Mabel of Orange-Nassau.

But even if your little girl won't be part of a regal family, Mabel has a warm, welcoming spirit that will brighten up your home.

8. Winifred

Finally, Winifred is Welsh and Old English in origin, meaning "friend of peace" and "blessed reconciliation." The name is linked to a martyred Welsh princess and has a ton of vintage charm.

The best part? Winifred offers two cute nickname options: Winnie and Freddie. This makes it versatile (and fun) for different settings, whether formal or casual.

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10 Target New Arrivals That Are Literally Perfect For Spring

It’s always a great day when Target drops a whole set of new fashion finds! We scrolled through 22 entire pages of their site and uncovered only the most iconic pieces for spring – think trendy tops, breezy maxi skirts, and perfect spring dresses!

What we love most about these 10 Target new arrivals is that they’re super stylish, yet super affordable. Whether you're set on refreshing your entire spring wardrobe or just looking to add a few statement pieces, these new budget-friendly finds are totally worth shopping.

Scroll on for our top 10 favorite new finds from Target for the cutest spring and summer outfits!

Target

Wild Fable Open-Back Halter Denim Vest

This denim vest makes the perfect going-out top for warm spring and summer nights. It's totally 'business in the front, party in the back' with its open-back design that lets you show some skin! Get playful with this piece and pair it with mismatching denim shorts or jeans.

Target

Wild Fable Puff Sleeve Tie-Front Peplum Blouse

This Scandi-inspired gingham top features some ties in the front, that when paired with a peplum hem and puff sleeves, become super fun and youthful for the spring season. Target's even selling some adorable coordinating capris to make it a set!

Target

A New Day Long Line Vest

Wearable to the office and happy hour alike, this sleek longline vest is so flattering since it elongates your torso. It supplies a good amount of coverage, too!

Target

A New Day Tube Knit Maxi Dress

Drop-waist dresses are bound to be everywhere this spring. Embrace the trend with this stunning strapless moment for just $40. This piece can pair well with sandals, loafers, sneakers, boots – the list goes on!

Target

Wild Fable Relaxed Baggy Overalls

Overalls are a great one-and-done outfit to have on-hand in the springtime. This pair boasts a comfy relaxed fit, so you can layer it over tees and tanks with ease.

Target

A New Day Checked Pleated A-Line Skirt

Oh, so chic! This pleated skirt is designed with a dropped waistline to flatter your figure. It's fitted with a perfect touch of class in case you want to pull an elevated look this season.

Target

Wild Fable Ruffle Midi A-Line Skirt

For flirtier effect, this floral mmidi skirt is covered in spring-ready colors and embellished with he cutest ruffle hem! Whether you wear it casually or more formally, you'll want to live in it all season long.

Target

Wild Fable Puff Sleeve Flyaway Blouse

White blouses are our #1 wear come springtime, so we're absolutely enamored with this lightweight one that boasts the most stunning feminine touches, from the tied bows up front to the eyelet lining along the neckline.

Target

Universal Thread High-Rise Sailor Wide Leg Ankle Jeans

Statement piece central! These wide-leg jeans come in so many playful colors, but this bright blue truly can't be missed.

Target

Wild Fable Tie-Front Cami

Gingham is for the girls! This breezy cami flows with your body for a comfy, yet flattering spring 'fit.

Subscribe to our newsletter to shop more amazing Target finds!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

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8 "Timeless" Baby Names That Will Never Go Out Of Style

Finding the perfect name for your baby is one of the most exciting (and daunting) decisions that new parents face. But while trends will always come and go, certain options stand the test of time.

These names carry an enduring air of elegance, making them as beloved today as they were generations ago. Let's explore some timeless baby name picks that will never go out of style.

Scroll to see our favorite timeless baby names for 2025!

1. Audrey

Vicki Yde

This classic name of British origin means "noble strength" and has roots that trace back to the Anglo-Saxon era. It's often associated with Audrey Hepburn, an iconic actress known for her beauty and humanitarian work.

Audrey sounds sophisticated and graceful, making it a great fit for a poised little girl.

2. Clark

Anastasiya Gepp

Clark, which means "cleric," "clerk," or "scribe," has deep roots in Norman England and has carried a sense of strength through the centuries.

It might make you think of Clark Kent, but this name's history stretches long before Superman's debut. Popularized in the 1930s and 1940s by actor Clark Gable, it gives off classic charm and masculinity.

3. Elisa

Polesie Toys

Elisa, which means "God's promise," is a melodic name with both Spanish and Hebrew origins. As a variation of the timeless name Elizabeth, Elisa offers a fresh and modern twist while still holding onto its classic roots.

If you want a name rooted in spirituality or simply one with an uplifting sound, Elisa can be a meaningful choice for parents who wish to inspire a sense of promise in their little girl.

4. Grant

Erika Quirino

With English, French, and Scottish origins, Grant is a distinguished name that means "tall" or "big." It was originally a surname derived from the French word "graund," which signifies something large or towering.

Today, the name carries strength and a feeling of reliability. It's a solid choice for a level-headed young boy.

5. Clare

Pixabay

Clare is Latin in origin and means "bright" and "famous." It's a variant of the French names Clara and Claire and also has a strong connection to Ireland, as County Clare is known for its stunning landscapes.

When derived from the Irish word "clár," it means "level surface." Either way, Clare signifies both balance and beauty.

6. Simon

Norman Milwood

With roots in Hebrew and Greek, Simon is a sophisticated boy's name that means "to hear," "hearing," or "listening." It even has strong Biblical ties, famously belonging to Simon Peter, one of the 13 Apostles in Christianity.

Despite originally being spelled Simeon, Simon has lasted through the ages and continues to be a popular name worldwide. It has a contemporary appeal and a British flair that suggests intelligence and a sense of serenity.

7. Nancy

Ala Ben Brahem

Nancy is a charming name that dates back to Middle English. It's a playful variation of names like Agnes and Anne, both of which have meanings of grace, purity, and favor.

Now, this name has often been associated with older generations, but it's making a stylish comeback. Many modern parents view Nancy as a vintage name that has both classic and fresh appeal.

8. Wesley

Helena Lopes

Finally, Wesley means "western meadow" and was originally a surname. It became popularized as a first name by John Wesley, the influential religious leader and founder of the Methodist movement in the 1700s.

But while it has religious ties, Wesley's nature-inspired meaning signifies freedom and adventure all on its own. It's a fitting choice for a little boy who wants to explore the world.

Looking for more baby & parenting advice? Sign up for our newsletter!

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29 New April Book Releases To Add To Your Calendar STAT

Spring is here and it's brought the promise of more riveting new books with it! Bookish readers will love getting lost in our most-anticipated recommendations by authors Sarah Damoff, Allison Raskin, and more! We know how much you love rom-coms, but we've also included mystery, romantasy, and self-improvement titles to give you a range of TBR picks to choose from.

Scroll to find the best swoon-worthy rom-coms, nail-biting mysteries, and helpful self-improvement books debuting in April!

The Best Fiction Books Debuting In April

Amazon

The Griffin Sisters' Greatest Hits by Jennifer Weiner (April 8, 2025)

Sisters Cassie and Zoe Grossberg were once the the greatest pop stars ever. Known to the public as The Griffin Sisters, their hits coupled with public appearances made them ultra popular. However, their personalities have always been different and it's part of what eventually drove them apart.

Between Zoe being a mom and Cassie living an obscured life, the only person who seems to have an idea of what happened to their careers is Zoe's daughter Cherry. But the only way the past can be healed is if everyone's willing to confront it and reconcile the lives they currently live.

Amazon

Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez (April 8, 2025)

Nikki's been caught in the middle of a strange feud between her mom and grandmother, so she's shocked when the latter wants her to visit. Before long, Nikki arrives in North Carolina and hopes to discover what happened to the women she loves. Instead, her grandmother begins to tell her about a forgotten kingdom that her great-great-great grandmother Luella was queen of. Adding to Nikki's astonishment is the revelation that her grandmother is telling the truth based on the artifacts the young woman finds hidden in the hills.

Sadly, there are people who are threatening to completely erase the Kingdom of Happy Land's history which leaves Nikki in charge of saving it.

Amazon

A Proposal to Die For by Molly Harper (April 8, 2025)

Jessamine Bricker is a planner who knows how to make situations flow effortlessly. It's why she's successful at proposal plannings. However, she decides to help a former classmate named Diana and her boyfriend Trenton Tillard, IV to continue affording her office. She'd rather not, but she doesn't want to be pushed out of the space she's in. It's how Jessamine finds herself being a reluctant guest during Diana's pre-wedding trip.

Beginning with day one, one thing after the other goes wrong and it leaves Jessamine wondering why she agreed to help Diana and Trenton. But the scariest thing involves a murder that seeks to destroy everything and everyone...maybe even Jessamine.

Amazon

The Eightsby Joanna Miller (April 15, 2025)

In 1920, four young women are allowed to study at the prestigious and exclusive Oxford University. Their arrival is immediately balked at because women weren't traditionally allowed to attend before, but that doesn't completely deter Beatrice, Dora, Marianne, and Otto. For them, being on campus is fueled by individual desires that are revealed over time.

As their time on campus ebbs and flows, these young women will discover a tenacity they never knew they had. Not only that, but they'll also forge an incredible sisterhood that gets them through the toughest times of their lives.

Amazon

To Have and Have More by Sanibel (April 15, 2025)

Emery Hooper and Lilah Chang may be Asian students who attend Derrymore Academy, but that's where their similarities end. While the adopted Emery has perfectly assimilated into the culture around her, she finds Lilah to be a cringey representation of Asians. She's also unsure why Lilah is working so hard to be her friend.

But over time, Emery begins to see how much she's subject to covert racism despite being wealthy. It's what eventually unites her and Lilah because they begin to see how much some things can't save you from harmful rhetoric that's ingrained in society.

Amazon

The Bright Years by Sarah Damoff (April 22, 2025)

Ryan and Lillian Bright may have built their marriage on love, but their secrets eventually tear them apart. It's something their daughter Georgette witnesses, causing her to back away from their once close-knit family. But even her plans are changed when Lillian's secret son appears. This forces Georgette to learn more about her family so she's able to see if love can save everyone.

Amazon

The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick (April 22, 2025)

Margaret Ryan starts off living a life that every woman dreams of in the 1960s. She has it all — the cushy husband, kids, and comfortable life — and it seems like she's content. However, a perceptive person would be able to pinpoint how unfulfilled she is. It's something she wasn't willing to admit until her new neighbor Charlotte Gustafson moved to Concordia.

Charlotte's mysterious and intriguing, prompting Margaret to start her own book clubwith two other women. Soon, she, Charlotte, Bitsy, and Viv begin meeting to dissect The Feminine Mystique. It's a classic book that begins making them question their suburban lives which opens them up to even more books that help them challenge the status quo.

Though they didn't anticipate this, these four women's friendship becomes a sturdy foundation during the most pivotal year of their lives.

The Best Romance Books Debuting In April

Amazon

Save the Date by Allison Raskin (April 8, 2025)

Couples therapist Emma Moskowitz's life is left in shambles when the abrupt end of her engagement upends her wedding, career, and book plans. As far as her audience knows, she's skilled at matters of the heart so she feels like she's letting everyone down when she comes up short in the romance department.

Unwilling to give up her wedding date, Emma concocts an intriguing plan to find someone who's willing to marry her in the next 6 months. Call it desperate, but sharing her plans online garners a ton of attention that leaves her torn between a podcast produced named Will and the divorced Matt. But, you can't possibly find love that'll stand the test of time in such a short amount of time...right

Amazon

That's What She Said by Eleanor Pilcher (April 15, 2025)

Are you really best friends if your personalities don't differ a little bit? For Serena and Beth, it's amazing they've been able to find things in common because their outlooks aren't similar. Whereas Beth seems to be a walking shell of a person, Serena brazenly lives a full life. But some things just make sense and that sums up their friendship.

One day, Beth makes a shocking revelation that delights Serena because she's been waiting for her friend's sexual desires to be awakened. The latter gets to work helping Beth get comfortable with what she wants and it seems like things are headed in the right direction. But an old crush and a FWB situation confuses both women, leading them to wonder if their friendship will survive.

Amazon

Gold Coast Dilemma by Nana Malone (April 29, 2025)

Ofosua Addo thinks she's found the love of her life when she and Cole Drake kiss for the first time, but there's two problems. One, she's an heiress to a vast empire and two, she's supposed to marry someone else her mother approves of. Being a good daughter means forging ahead with her wedding, but it comes crashing down in flames.

On her path to self-love and discovery, Ofosua and Cole cross paths again. This time, they'll have to remember why they fell for each other and if their love can cancel out tradition's strict protocol.

The Best Mystery & Thriller Books Debuting In April

Amazon

Bitterfrost by Bryan Gruley (April 1, 2025)

Jimmy Baker used to be a famed hockey player, but his career ended when he made a drastic decision. Since then, he's been a Zamboni driver who doesn't make waves in Bitterfrost, Michigan. It's not the life he wanted, but he has no other choice but to atone for his mistake. His days are mostly eventful until he's suddenly accused of a double murder he doesn't remember committing.

With the odds stacked against him, Jimmy will have to figure out what happened and if he's as violent as everyone says he is.

Amazon

Follow Me by Elizabeth Rose Quinn (April 1, 2025)

Adrienne Shaw is positive something foul happened to her twin sister Chiara when the latter vanishes during an influencer trip. Never mind the fact Adrienne never understood her sister's obsession with building a social media presence. It doesn't mean something bad should've happened.

Fed up with everyone's lack of a motive, Adrienne decides to visit the same retreat her sister went to because she's sure she'll find answers to her many questions. For a few days, Adrienne finds herself surrounded by toxic positivity and eyes that tell a different story than smiles do.

Amazon

Rabbit Moon by Jennifer Haigh (April 8, 2025)

Claire and Aaron Litvak's worlds come to a halt when they learn their daughter Lindsey's been hurt in China. Not only is she in critical condition, but the unlucky parents begin realizing her life in Shangai might not have been as linear as they thought. The only person who may have an idea of what happened is Lindsey's adopted sister Grace, but can Claire and Aaron piece together the truth before it's too late?

Amazon

The California Dreamers by Amy Mason Doan (April 8, 2025)

The Merrick siblings are used to beautiful California summers because they know they're guaranteed to have fun with their parents. However, a secret picture taken of them begins circulating and it puts them in danger. Years later, the patriarch of the Merrick family is being honored when a nosy journalist finds them and begins poking around their past.

The siblings will have to decide if they're ready to deal with the truth or if they're going to continue burying things like they've always done.

Amazon

Ruth Run by Elizabeth Kaufman (April 15, 2025)

Instead of using her intelligence to better the world, Ruth makes her money as a robber who targets banks. In a just a few years, she's managed to steal over $250 million thanks to her cyber smarts. But her clever plan is halted when she triggers an alarm that puts her in danger.

Now considered a high-level threat who could possibly help a government agency, Ruth tries to evade the agents on her trail who don't care how they capture her. It's clear their obsession with her borders other feelings, but Ruth isn't waiting to find out what they are.

Amazon

Coram House by Bailey Seybolt (April 15, 2025)

Young orphan Tommy's disappearance from Coram House in the late 1960s became an unsolved mystery that's haunted Lake Champlain ever since. It's the very case that's could restore true crime journalist Alex Kelley's career, so she jumps at the chance to lend her skills to a book about the orphanage Tommy once lived at. However, the stories surrounding him are complicated. Plus, Alex gets more than she bargained for when she stumbles across a dead woman's body floating in the lake.

She's convinced there's a connection between this and Tommy's case, but officer Russell Parker doesn't take her seriously. But he'll have to because more people are dying and Alex could be next.

Amazon

The Amalfi Curse by Sarah Penner (April 29, 2025)

Nautical archaeologist Haven Ambrose is supposed to be figuring out why ships keep wrecking in Positano, but she's also curious about what her father saw the last time he dived into the beautiful water. As soon as she arrives in town, strange things begin occurring that she has no explanation for.

The more she digs into her investigation, the more she unearths the chance of something magical at work. Despite one woman's desire to save the people she loves, she could've possibly cursed the Amalfi Curse and it's up to Haven to stop it before everything's ruined.

Amazon

A Campus on Fire by Patrick O'Dowd (April 29, 2025)

Student journalist Tess Azar wants to know why someone was killed in the writing program she's been lucky to be admitted to. As she investigates, she learns that something amiss is going on and it may involve a cult. There's also a growing right-wing group of students that are threatening to create more hysteria.

The Best Fantasy & Romantasy Books Debuting In April

Amazon

The Never List by Jade Presley (April 8, 2025)

The kingdom of Lumathyst may be destroyed soon unless the four immortal god-princes can secure their mate. Unfortunately, none of the women who have come before them have been suitable and they're running out of time. The issue is that the woman they choose will need to become immortal like them, but the process is brutal and doesn't guarantee survival. But Rylee Gray may be their saving grace if they don't uncover what she's hiding.

Amazon

The Raven Scholarby Antonia Hodgson (April 15, 2025)

Orrun has been peaceful ever since Bersun the Brusque ruled over it, but it's time for someone else to ascend the throne. So, everyone who considers themselves worthy begins to compete for the #1 spot because they think they have what it takes. But an untimely murder leaves High Scholar Neema Kraa scrambling to discover the murderer. What she doesn't know is that there are forces who are more than willing to help her and keep her out of harm's way at all costs.

Amazon

Awakenedby A.E. Osworth (April 29, 2025)

Wilder awakes to the realization they're able to decipher all languages. Dealing with confusion, they find safe haven with other witches who have also "awakened" to their hidden abilities. There's:

Quibble, a portal traveler
Artemis, a caretaker and seer
Mary Margaret, a powerful telekinetic individual

As soon as Wilder gets comfortable, something evil in the form of AI threatens everything they and their coven's come to know. Before long, their group has to contend with how much is too much when it comes to magic and artificial intelligence.

The Best Parenting Books Debuting In April

Amazon

Autism Out Loud: Life with a Child on the Spectrum, from Diagnosis to Young Adulthoodby Kate Swenson, Carrie Cariello, and Adrian Wood (April 1, 2025)

Autors Kate Swenson, Carrie Cariello, and Adrian Wood have on thing in common: they're parents of children who have autism. This has united them in more ways than one, leading them to write Autism Out Loud with the goal of sharing their firsthand insights. Readers will learn about everything from the diagnosis process to what it looks like to raise a child who has autism.

Amazon

Three Minutes for Mom: 365 Days of Empowerment, Encouragement, and Growth for a More Connected Motherhood by Erin Morrison (April 8, 2025)

Sometimes moms need a reminder they can have a few minutes to themselves which is why Erin Morrison's compiled Three Minutes for Mom. Each day will feature an opportunity to look at strengths and areas of growth, but readers will also discover boundless encouragement for one of the toughest jobs in the world.

The Best Self-Improvement Books & Inspirational Books Debuting In April

Amazon

Rewrite Your Rules: The Journey to Success in Less Time with More Freedomby Morgan DeBaun (April 1, 2025)

Blavity's founder Morgan DeBaun is here to share her success secrets with you. She built a powerful platform that aims to empower the Black community and knows that it helps to abide by certain principles that'll help propel you towards the career you want to have. Whether it's challenging certain rules or encouraging you to think outside of the box, readers will learn how to live the lives they want.

Be sure to visit Rewrite Your Rules for a robust look at how you can be living your best life!

Amazon

A Better Share: How Couples Can Tackle the Mental Load for More Fun, Less Resentment, and Great Sex by Dr. Morgan Cutlip (April 8, 2025)

This one's for all the couples who are still dealing with burnout. Dr. Morgan Cutlip knows there's no such thing as 50/50 in relationships, but that doesn't mean your relationship is doomed. In A Better Share, Dr. Cutlip explores things that affect partners like the mental and emotional load of everyday life. There's also great insight about how libidos are impact when people feel things aren't balanced or "fair." So, buckle up and get ready to transform your relationship.

Amazon

How to Giggle: A Guide to Taking Life Less Seriously by Hannah Berner and Paige Desorbo (April 15, 2025)

Featured in our best podcasts article, Hannah Berner and Paige DeSorbo are back with their first book How to Giggle. Instead of listening to them, readers will have a written account of how these two friends navigate life. From awkward moments to realizing men don't have to be the center of everything, you'll get a kick out of the joyous way they tackle real moments.

Amazon

Normalize It: Upending the Silence, Stigma, and Shame That Shape Women's Livesby Jessica Zucker, PhD (April 22, 2025)

After writing the groundbreaking I Had a Miscarriage,Jessica Zucker decided to take things a step further to expound on the many ways girls and women are taught to carry shame. Whether it's navigating body image, sexual harm, or menopause, certain topics are still considered taboo. But in Normalize It: Upending the Silence, Stigma, and Shame That Shape Women's Lives, Zucker's saying the quiet parts out loud.

Without missing a beat, she explains the many ways shame can show up in young girls and women's lives while also sharing helpful insight about how to explore a liberated life. It's empowering no matter what season of life you're in and one that I absolutely recommend!

The Best Cookbooks Debuting In April

Amazon

A Feast of Thorns and Rosesby Chelsea Cole (April 1, 2025)

Can't get enough of ACOTAR? Now you'll get a chance to cook meals inspired by the famous BookTok series! You'll find over 50 recipes that the creatures of Prythian eat (aside from carnivorous moments), that'll make you feel like you have a seat at one of the High Lord's table. Better yet, you'll become a pro at cooking meals that would make them pay you a visit!

Amazon

Scratch That: Embrace the Mess, Cook to Impressby Alix Traeger (April 22, 2025)

Alix Traeger doesn't expect you to be 5-star chef because life's too short for that. However, she does know you're interested in cooking meals that impress your family and friends. Inside of Scratch That: Embrace the Mess, Cook to Impress are recipes that even the most hazard-prone cook will find easy to follow. From girl dinner-esque appetizers to evening meals, anyone can have fun with Alix's cookbook!

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Jenny Han Just Teased A "Surprise" End To 'The Summer I Turned Pretty'

It's almost time to return to Cousins! The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3 is coming this summer, and Prime Video just gave us a first official look at Belly, Jeremiah, and Conrad. The new episodes will open at the end of Belly's freshman year of college, and in addition to seeing the evolution of our favorite characters, author and co-showrunner Jenny Han says "there are going to be surprises" in the final season. Eek!

Here's your first look at Lola Tung, Gavin Casalegno, and Christopher Briney in The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3, coming to Prime Video July 2025!

Jenny Han says 'The Summer I Turned Pretty' fans are in for a few surprises.

Erika Doss/Prime Video

"There are the things that [fans] know and then there are things they think they know, and then there's going to be, hopefully, things that surprise them," Jenny Han tells Entertainment Weekly. Listen, I am a very proud member of Team Conrad, and seeing how cozy Belly and Jeremiah are in these pics (not to mention the set leak that's definitely not in the third book), I'm starting to wonder if Prime Video is teasing I should switch teams.

But no matter which team you're on, Lola Tung promises the season won't let you down.

Team #JellyFish will get their time this season.

Erika Doss/Prime Video

"The one thing I've always admired about Jenny is that every season and every decision about what's coming next is purely to serve the story," Lola says. "She's never going to do anything that doesn't make sense for the story. It's all about this beautiful world she's created and giving the fans something really, really special and giving us something really special to work with."

And that includes some sweet moments which Jeremiah and Belly, who "are, at their core, best friends," Lola adds. "That relationship is something that's so special and so unique to them, so it's exciting to see this season and how their relationship blossoms."

And 'The Summer I Turned Pretty' images also feature Conrad.

Erika Doss/Prime Video

But don't worry Conrad fans, we also get a look at the elder Fisher brother who "we know that he went to Stanford, and so he's continuing on his journey to become a doctor, as you can see from that white coat," Jenny says. "I think people won't be surprised to see that."

Keep reading for more images from The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3!

Erika Doss/Prime Video

Jenny Han also teases this image is actually a flashback, "so do with that what you will." BRB, I'm off dreaming of a beach vacation. I also can't help but point out the warm color grade of this season! The golden look makes everything feel warmer and more magical — and offers a youthful glow as Belly gets older.

Erika Doss/Prime Video

But for those of us who care more about Steven and Taylor (Sean Kaufman and Rain Spencer) than the main love triangle, we got this single crumb from the new images. And I'm more than happy about it, thank you very much.

Erika Doss/Prime Video

Belly (Lola Tung) gets cozy on campus in a hoodie and sunglasses.

Erika Doss/Prime Video

And Belly and Jeremiah (Gavin Casalegno) get cozy with each other at a party.

Erika Doss/Prime Video

But they work as hard as they play! I have this exact outfit Belly's wearing, and you best believe I'm adding it into my fashion rotation.

How many episodes will The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3 have?

Erika Doss/Prime Video

Great news! The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3 will have 11 episodes instead of 7 or 8 like seasons 1 and 2 did. Stay tuned for the official release schedule.

Who's in the cast?

Prime Video

The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3 cast features all your favorites:

Lola Tung as Belly Conklin: a beach-loving volleyball player who's always dreaming of summer.
Christopher Briney as Conrad Fisher: Belly and Steven's lifelong friend who Belly's always had a crush on.
Gavin Casalegno as Jeremiah Fisher: Conrad's sunny younger brother.
Sean Kaufman as Steven Conklin: Belly's older brother.
Rain Spencer as Taylor Jewel: Belly's best friend.
Jackie Chungas Laurel Park: Belly and Steven's mom and Susannah Fisher's best friend.

Meet The Summer I Turned Pretty Season 3 Cast before the new episodes air on Prime Video this July!

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