#Articles : GMO | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

siryouarebeingmocked · 6 months

Text

I was watching an LP of Spider Man 2 (PS5) SPOILERS

In the first mission after the intro, some guys try to rob a gun club. Which, has no security but a thin metal rolling door that some random thugs easily back a truck through. Sure, I get it, it's a plot contrivance.

Spidey (Peter) complains about the stupidity of the idea of having a gun club in the city. He banters about how he wants to replace the city's gun clubs with places that don't hurt anyone, like complement clubs.

In other words, a man who can dodge bullets in a high-tech, bullet-resistant suit packed chock-full of unlicensed, experimental, powerful concealed weapons* says guns are bad because they hurt people, as he beats thugs to a pulp with his carbon-fiber reinforced fists.

Two, legal gun owners are rarely the people who shoot others. If they shoot anyone, it's probably themselves, on purpose. Most gun crime is with illegal guns, and blaming legal owners for that is stupid.

Heck, I'm from one of many countries with low legal ownership, strict gun control, and more per capita gun homicides than America.

Three, the plot of the first game involved terrorists attacking the city, compromising a public official, and nearly blowing up the Mayor. Then there was a supervillain prison break, then the Mayor called in a PMC to keep order, which turned out to be tyrannical fascists.

Followed by a bioterror attack using weaponized biotech from the Mayor’s own company.

Needless to say, the Mayor loses his job.

I’m not even covering the DLC and Miles Morales game, which caused even more chaos. In short, faith in the city government and cops to protect the public has to be at an all-time low.

Also, the city's gun laws apparently don't keep countless bad guys from toting around their thundersticks. And we know those laws are probably similar to reality, because one of the side plots in SM2 involves Spidey responding to people with fireworks, which are illegal without a permit.

In the entire state. Except for sparklers.

Also, Spider-Man usually mocks his enemies. He spends most of the fight mocking the idea of gun clubs. Imagine if some randos tried to rob a jewelry store, and he started going on about blood diamonds.

I'm an hour or two later, and some guy says that his foundation is developing GMO crops for humanitarian reasons, as opposed to normal corporate GMO crops, which are made for profit and are "rightly criticized".

The speech does not sound one bit like something an actual person would say. It's possible the character is drawing on the language of a speech or article, but it still sounds awkward.

Peter later says "Money shouldn't be part of the equation when it comes to basic human necessities."

Man who lucked into a cushy job because he was friends with a nepo baby of a billionaire in high school says “the vittles shouldn’t cost money.”

And last time I checked, a lot of crops wouldn't even be grown if farmers and corporations couldn't profit by them. Because, y’know, food costs time, money, effort, and resources to make. Like most things.

Just to be clear, I'm actually in favor of Open Source, generally. But this is just so preachy.

*Including armed drones with lasers powerful enough to destroy scenery.

#spider-man #spiderman #writing #cringe #sjws #social justice #gun control #gunblr #guns

63 notes · View notes

vomitdodger · 1 year

Text

There are so many things wrong with that headline. But it gets worse. From the article:

“Believer utilizes fibroblasts instead of traditional stem cells. Fibroblasts are robust connective tissue cells that grow efficiently, even in complex environments. They undergo a process termed spontaneous immortalization in which cells rearrange their chromosomes and start growing indefinitely without genetic intervention. Thus, Believer’s cell stock for chicken, lamb, beef, and pork is non-GMO.

84 notes · View notes

peppermintsolarpunk · 2 years

Text

Since I’m on a solarpunk fashion kick right now, here’s a digitized version of a drawing I made last October.

🌼🌥🐝📏🍃🦋🍄🌿

[Image ID: a digital drawing of various articles of solarpunk-inspired clothing. A white denim jacket with coattails bearing a pattern of a cluster of daisies over the word “GMO”, blue overalls patterned with clouds and a sun patch over each knee, a beige tshirt with a hexagonal honeycomb pattern and an ultra-green sweat bee surrounded by matching green hearts (native local bee appreciation), a blueprint pattern apron with measuring tape waist-tie, a messenger bag where the flap looks like a large leaf, orange and black firefly yoga pants with glowing flared ankles lit by fiber optics, a green hoodie with a fern print on the front made of jersey fabric designed to have no internal seams or scratchy tags for sensory issues, a pair of human-sized fabric monarch butterfly wings, a fly agaric rain gear ensemble featuring a beige raincoat dress with a ruff around the shoulders and a broad red hat with white spots designed to look like a mushroom cap, and BEE BOOTS which are bright yellow converse with black tongues and translucent bee wings attached to the top three eyelets. /End ID]

#solarpunk #solarpunk fashion #biomimicry #nature fashion #animal fashion #butterfly wings #solfashion #soloriginal #maker #fashion design #BEE BOOTS #solarpunk art

96 notes · View notes

saintmeghanmarkle · 1 month

Text

Is even Lainey Gossip turning on them??? by u/okfine_illbite

Is even Lainey Gossip turning on them??? Apologies if this has been posted but I searched and did not find it. This first article was not written by Lainey but is on her site--get past the intro about the racism claims, it is ultimately critical less sugary than expected from the outlet:https://ift.tt/BZFtMm0 not only that, Lainey herself has this to say in a broader royal article:"Even if you’re in the camp of people who think the Sussexes are famewhores, a reasonable read of the situation would still allow that even they wouldn’t be out here all “pre-order my organic vegan, free from GMO, hydrated from the dew of angel wings blueberry jam!” if Kate was in some kind of emergency. The fact that Meghan’s selling jams and jellies though, I mean, LOL FOREVER. That said, they aren’t technically supposed to be using their titles for commercial gain, which the British tabloids are already pointing out. Will the Palace come after them for this? Will there be another skirmish related to the Sussexes’ new enterprise?"https://archive.ph/pluEr post link: https://ift.tt/OF4vdS3 author: okfine_illbite submitted: March 16, 2024 at 03:19AM via SaintMeghanMarkle on Reddit disclaimer: all views + opinions expressed by the author of this post, as well as any comments and reblogs, are solely the author's own; they do not necessarily reflect the views of the administrator of this Tumblr blog. For entertainment only.

6 notes · View notes

thebestreviewsusa · 18 days

Text

Does Neotonics Really Work? Neotonics Review - Neotonics Supplement

If you came to this article it is because you want to know more information about Neotonics.

You want to know if Neotonics really works, what the ingredients are, how to use Neotonics and also where to buy it safely!

Therefore, I decided to write this review to tell you everything about Neotonics.

✔ What is Neotonics?

Neotonics is a specialized formula developed to address the connection between gut health and aging skin. It contains a unique blend that promotes a healthy gut microbiome, improving skin cell turnover and providing essential nutrients for healthy skin.

✔ Does Neotonics Work?

Yes, Neotonics works.

Neotonics is formulated with important ingredients to keep skin youthful and radiant.

It contains a unique blend of 500 million units of extra-strength bacteria and 9 potent natural ingredients that work together to promote a healthy gut microbiome.

This composition makes our skin appear brighter and firmer, and eliminates fine lines and wrinkles more quickly.

✔ Neotonics Ingredients

Neotonics is made up of 100% natural and unique ingredients that are clinically proven to

support healthy, glowing skin and mechanical digestion.

Inside each "Neotonics" gummy you will find:

- Babchi

- Inulin & Dandelion

- Bacillus Coagulans

- Fenugreek

- Lemon Balm

- Organic Ceylon Ginger

- Slippery Elm Bark

- Organic Lion’s Mane

- Fennel

✔ How To Take Neotonics?

The suggested starting dose of Neotonics is one capsule per day. To obtain the full benefits, it is advisable to use Neotonics continuously for at least 3 months.

✔ Is Neotonics certified by the FDA?

Neotonics is produced in facilities in the United States that are registered and follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) guidelines.

✔ Neotonics is Safe?

Yes, Neotonics has no side effects, it was made with natural, GMO-free ingredients. Additionally, it is manufactured in an FDA-registered facility and adheres to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) in the United States.

✔ Does Neotonics offer a guarantee?

Yes, Neotonics has a guarantee valid for 60 days.

✔ Where To Buy Neotonics?

Neotonics is solely sold on its official website. Purchasing directly from the maker guarantees you receive a genuine product, high quality, and the opportunity to benefit from special deals and discounts.

✔ Neotonics Review

In the video I explained everything about this wonderful skin supplement and that Neotonics really works. Now that you know that Neotonics is worth it, how to use it and where to buy it, I hope you enjoyed Neotonics Reviews!

Still have questions? Watch this video:

youtube

So that's it, I hope you enjoyed this review.

I tried to bring the main information about Neotonics. Don't forget that Neotonics can only be sold through the manufacturer's official website.

Access below and guarantee your pots of Neotonics:

>>> Official Website Neotonics

The post Neotonics Review was first published on Canal Flamengo Online

#skin #neotonics #neotonics reviews #neotonics review #does neotonics work #Youtube

2 notes · View notes

arcticdementor · 25 days

Text

Story at a glance: • Traditionally, cheese was made with just four ingredients: milk, salt, starter culture and animal rennet. • Rennet is used as a clotting agent to curdle the milk into cheese, separating the liquid parts of milk from the solids. It's an essential part of the cheese-making process. • Today, there are four types of rennet used in the cheese-making industry: animal rennet, vegetable rennet, microbial rennet and a genetically modified version called FPC (fermentation-produced chymosin), made by Pfizer. • Bioengineered FPC was granted Generally Regarded as Safe (GRAS) status, which exempted Pfizer from the pre-approved requirements that apply to other new food additives. This is even though studies have detailed concerns about safety. • An estimated 90% of North American cheese is made with FPC rennet, and ingredient labels do not distinguish between bioengineered rennet and the original animal-based type so consumers have no way of knowing what they're eating. In this article let's dive into why I believe you should only be eating cheese made with ANIMAL RENNET, and how over 90% of the cheese sold in the U.S. does not use this and instead uses a genetically modified organism (GMO) version made by Pfizer.

#cheese #joseph mercola #pfizer #gmo #food paranoia #greenie weenies #half-baked vitalism

2 notes · View notes

snorpington-fizzlebean · 2 years

Text

I am playing the game again and saw that a newspaper article on Snorpy's conspiracy board mentions genetically modified organisms (GMO). I was once again annoyed thinking about how the devs said grumpuses don't have computers as we know them, given that's sort of a prerequisite for that.

Then I had a terrible thought - an unlikely one, but not impossible.

Are these muppets using wetware?

#bugsnax #this world may contain further horrors beyond our comprehension i suppose #theory #grumpus tech #i figured i should make a tag for that

42 notes · View notes

ifenvs3000w23 · 2 months

Text

Week 5

Initially I was unsure of what I wanted to do with my discussion post as this week we are free to write about whatever we want. I settled on talking about plastic recycling using plastic eating bacteria. Last week I read an article on this and it inspired me to look into how they are using plastic eating bacteria and how they could be used in the future. I found out about that In 2021 a French Company called Carbios partnered with nestle and Pepsi when they began using a enzyme called PETase (PETase is one of a handful on enzymes that is capable to breakdown plastic) to assist in the Degradation of PET plastics (PET plastic is the most common form of plastic in water bottles and product packaging) to process about 250kg of PET plastic waste every day or 91 tonnes per year, breaking it down into its precursor molecules, Which then can be made into new clear plastic. Typically recycled plastic is not clear and has a more opaque look to it which companies often find undesirable. For example A recycled plastic bottle becomes a mottled bag, which becomes fibrous jacket insulation, which then becomes road filler, never to be recycled again. So having the ability to continuously recycle and remake clear plastic will massively reduce the amount of new plastic that is made.

Carbios is able to complete this recycling process by shredding the plastic and running it through a machine which freezes it and forces it through a tiny opening at great pressure. The plastic pops out as pellets about the size of corn kernels. At the microscopic level, it is much less dense than its original form. which gives the enzymes a larger surface area to attack allowing for increased degradation.

The plastic pellets are placed in a solution of water and PETase, inside a sealed steel tank. As time goes on, the plastic erodes away, and its components dissolve into the solution, leaving only a grayish liquid. The liquid now contains the two components ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid, which can be separated out and turned into new plastic. Fortunately, This technique scales easily. Two years ago the company was recycling a few kilos of plastic a day; now they do about 250kg a day. Next year, with the help of a new recycling plant carbios will be able to process 130 tonnes a day or almost 50 thousand tonnes a year.

Many scientists hope that PETase will be used in the future for microplastic clean up. Last year, a German group engineered PETase into marine algae, noting that someday it could be used to break down microplastic in the ocean. Microplastics are a huge issue and there are not many effective ways to do this and using GMO algae is a possibility that should be explored.

Another future use of PETase along with other chemical reactions is to produce hydrogen fuel from plastics. In Plastic on average the second most abundant element within is hydrogen, there are already a few research teams looking into the possibility of using terephthalic acid, one of the by-products of PETase, to make hydrogen fuel. terephthalic acid can also be used in perfumes and can be turned into Vanillin, the compound that creates the “vanilla taste”.

Overall, this biotechnology is very promising for the future of global plastic clean up and recycling. Hopefully this will help make the world a greener and healthier place. Do you think we should release this marine algae into the world's oceans to help clean up microplastics?

Article Link:

2 notes · View notes

swarajya2 · 5 months

Text

organic a2 cow ghee

organic A2 cow ghee is a type of clarified butter made from the milk of certain breeds of cows that produce A2 beta-casein protein. This ghee is derived from the milk of cows that are raised organically, meaning they are fed organic feed, graze on organic pastures, and are not treated with synthetic hormones or antibiotics.

A2 cow ghee is believed to have potential health benefits over ghee made from regular cow milk due to the presence of A2 beta-casein protein, which some research suggests might be easier to digest for people who are sensitive to dairy. Additionally, organic practices in cow farming aim to minimize exposure to pesticides, GMOs, and other harmful substances, potentially enhancing the overall quality of the ghee produced.

Consumers often choose organic A2 cow ghee for its perceived health benefits, its rich flavor, and its versatility in cooking and traditional Ayurvedic practices.

Understanding organic A2 Milk and organic A2 Cow Ghee:

Delving into the composition of A2 milk and the vital role of desi cow ghee, this section highlights their nutritional significance and cultural importance.

Health Benefits of organic A2 Cow Ghee:

From an Ayurvedic perspective to its digestive and holistic health advantages, organic A2 desi cow ghee offers a range of nutritional and therapeutic benefits that have been cherished for centuries.

Production Process of organic A2 Cow Ghee:

Detailing the specific cow breeds used and the traditional yet organic manufacturing methods, this section explains the meticulous process behind producing high-quality A2 desi cow ghee.

Organic Farming Practices for organic A2 Desi Cows:

The article sheds light on the organic farming practices that play a crucial role in ensuring the purity and quality of A2 desi cow ghee, emphasizing their feeding, grazing, and care.

Certifications and Standards for organic A2 Cow Ghee:

Understanding the various certifications and standards associated with organic A2 desi cow ghee assists consumers in making informed choices while ensuring authenticity and compliance.

Culinary and Therapeutic Uses of organic A2 Cow Ghee:

Highlighting its diverse applications, this section explores how organic A2 desi cow ghee is utilized not only in cooking but also in Ayurvedic medicine for its therapeutic benefits.

Debunking Myths Surrounding organic A2 Cow Ghee:

Addressing prevalent misconceptions, this part aims to provide accurate information and clarify any doubts or myths surrounding organic A2 desi cow ghee.

Factors to Consider When Purchasing organic A2 Cow Ghee:

Empowering consumers with essential factors to consider, this segment provides guidance on purchasing high-quality organic A2 desi cow ghee and tips for its proper storage and usage.

Testimonials and Experiences With organic A2 Cow Ghee:

Real-life stories and experiences shared by users showcase the tangible benefits and experiences of individuals using organic A2 desi cow ghee.

Sustainability and Ethical Aspects in organic A2 Cow Ghee Production:

Evaluating the environmental impact and ethical considerations in producing organic A2 cow ghee, this section explores its sustainability and ethical farming practices.

Global Demand and Emerging Trends:

Analyzing the rising global demand and market trends, this part presents an overview of the increasing popularity and future projections for organic A2 desi cow ghee.

Challenges and Innovations in organic A2 Cow Ghee Production:

Identifying challenges and exploring future innovations, this section provides insights into the obstacles faced and potential developments in A2 cow ghee production.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, organic A2 cow ghee stands as a symbol of tradition, health, and ethical practices. Its rich heritage, nutritional benefits, and diverse applications make it a valuable asset in modern lifestyles.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can organic A2 cow ghee be consumed by lactose-intolerant individuals?

Organic A2 cow ghee is generally well-tolerated by individuals who are lactose intolerant. This is because ghee, especially when clarified properly, contains negligible amounts of lactose. During the clarification process, milk solids, including lactose, are removed, leaving behind primarily fat. As a result, even individuals with lactose intolerance typically do not experience adverse reactions when consuming ghee. However, individual tolerance may vary, so it's always a good idea to start with small amounts and monitor how your body responds. If you have severe lactose intolerance, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating ghee into your diet.

What makes organic A2 cow ghee different from regular ghee?

Organic A2 cow ghee differs from regular ghee primarily in the type of milk used to produce it. A2 cow ghee is made from the milk of cows that specifically produce A2 beta-casein protein, whereas regular ghee may be made from the milk of cows that produce a combination of A1 and A2 beta-casein proteins.

Some people believe that A2 cow milk products, including ghee, are easier to digest and less likely to cause digestive discomfort compared to products made from milk containing A1 beta-casein protein. However, scientific evidence supporting these claims is still limited and inconclusive.

Additionally, organic A2 cow ghee is made from milk sourced from organically raised cows, which means that the cows are fed organic feed and are not treated with synthetic hormones or antibiotics. This emphasis on organic farming practices may appeal to consumers who prioritize organic and sustainable food options.

Overall, while there may be some perceived differences in digestibility and nutritional content between A2 cow ghee and regular ghee, both products are essentially clarified butter and share similar characteristics and culinary uses.

Is organic A2 cow ghee suitable for Ayurvedic practices?

Yes, organic A2 cow ghee is considered suitable for Ayurvedic practices. Ghee holds a significant place in Ayurveda, the traditional system of medicine in India, where it is revered for its numerous health benefits. In Ayurveda, ghee is believed to balance the doshas (biological energies) in the body, particularly the Vata and Pitta doshas. It is often used in cooking, as a carrier for medicinal herbs (in a practice known as "snehana"), and in various Ayurvedic therapies and treatments.

Organic A2 cow ghee aligns with Ayurvedic principles, especially if it is produced using traditional methods and sourced from organically raised cows. According to Ayurveda, the purity and quality of the ingredients are essential for reaping the maximum benefits of any food or medicine. Therefore, organic A2 cow ghee, which is derived from organic and presumably healthier milk, may be preferred by some practitioners of Ayurveda.

However, it's important to note that individual constitution and specific health conditions should always be taken into consideration when incorporating any food or remedy into an Ayurvedic regimen. Consulting with an Ayurvedic practitioner can provide personalized guidance on the use of ghee and other dietary choices to support overall health and well-being.

How can consumers identify authentic organic A2 cow ghee?

To identify authentic organic A2 cow ghee, consumers can follow these guidelines:

Look for Organic Certification: Authentic organic A2 cow ghee should be certified organic by a reputable certification body. This certification ensures that the ghee is produced according to organic farming standards, which prohibit the use of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

Check for A2 Certification: Some brands may also have A2 certification, indicating that the ghee is derived from cows that produce A2 beta-casein protein. This certification provides assurance that the ghee is sourced from specific cow breeds known to produce A2 milk.

Read the Label: Examine the product label carefully for information about the sourcing and production methods. Look for phrases such as "made from organic A2 cow milk" or "certified organic A2 cow ghee." The ingredient list should ideally contain only organic cow ghee.

Verify the Source: If possible, research the brand or manufacturer to ensure they have a reputation for producing high-quality organic products. Look for information about their sourcing practices, production methods, and any certifications they hold.

Check for Clarity and Aroma: Authentic ghee should have a clear, golden color and a rich, nutty aroma. Avoid products that appear cloudy or have off-putting odors, as these may indicate impurities or improper processing.

Consider Packaging: High-quality organic A2 cow ghee is often packaged in dark glass jars or metal containers to protect it from light and air, which can degrade its quality over time. Avoid products packaged in plastic containers, as they may leach chemicals into the ghee.

Seek Recommendations: Ask for recommendations from friends, family, or trusted health practitioners who are familiar with authentic organic A2 cow ghee brands. They may be able to suggest reputable brands that meet your criteria.

By following these guidelines, consumers can better identify authentic organic A2 cow ghee and make informed choices when purchasing this traditional and revered Ayurvedic ingredient.

What are the specific health benefits attributed to organic A2 cow ghee according to Ayurveda?

According to Ayurveda, organic A2 cow ghee is believed to offer several specific health benefits, including:

Supporting Digestion: Ghee is considered to be "agni deepana," meaning it kindles the digestive fire (agni) and enhances digestion. It is often recommended for individuals with weak digestion or those experiencing digestive issues such as constipation or indigestion.

Nourishing the Body: Ghee is rich in fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E, and K, which are essential for overall health and well-being. It is believed to nourish the body's tissues (dhatus) and promote strength, vitality, and longevity.

Balancing Doshas: In Ayurveda, ghee is considered to balance the doshas, particularly the Vata and Pitta doshas. It has a soothing and grounding effect on Vata dosha, which governs movement and communication in the body, and it helps to cool and pacify Pitta dosha, which governs metabolism and digestion.

Supporting Immunity: Ghee is believed to strengthen the immune system and enhance the body's natural defense mechanisms. It contains antioxidants and fatty acids that may help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation, thereby supporting overall immune function.

Promoting Mental Clarity: Ghee is traditionally used in Ayurveda to support mental clarity, concentration, and cognitive function. It is believed to nourish the brain and nervous system, promoting a calm and focused mind.

Supporting Healthy Skin: Ghee is often used topically in Ayurvedic skincare practices to moisturize and nourish the skin. When consumed internally, it may also support healthy skin from within by providing essential fatty acids and vitamins.

Enhancing Ojas: In Ayurveda, ojas refers to the subtle essence of vitality, immunity, and strength. Ghee is believed to enhance ojas when consumed in moderation, promoting overall health, resilience, and vitality.

These health benefits attributed to organic A2 cow ghee align with the traditional Ayurvedic understanding of food as medicine, emphasizing the importance of wholesome, nourishing foods in promoting balance and well-being. However, individual experiences may vary, and it's always advisable to consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner or healthcare professional before incorporating ghee or any other dietary supplement into your routine.

#blogs #my blogs #newarticle #blogspot #blogsona #organic desi ghee #organic ghee farm #nutrition #health benefits #healthyeating #nutrients #organic

2 notes · View notes

aria-i-adagio · 7 months

Text

OMG and GMO! @elfenlying, I just figured out who you are!

1. three ships: Hawke/Anders, obviously; Amelia/Violet (Harlots); umm... how about a nice classic? Jane Eyre/Rochester (Edward); Look at that! Nice and balanced. Slash, femslash, and het!

2. first ever ship: I remember having very strong feelings about Martin and Rose from the Redwall series as a kid. Yes. I have loved tragedy for a long time. (And baby’s first internet fandom!)

3. last song: “Cigarettes and Chocolate Milk,” Rufus Wainwright

4. last movie: I think the last movie I watched was Major Grom: Plague Doctor. (Some point last year.) Still haven’t figured out if it was actually good (within genre expectations), or if I was just delighted I hadn’t forgotten every word of Russian I ever learned and overcome with nostalgia for 50 ruble shawarma. (And red-headed socially awkward sorta kinda former twink blowing shit up. My needs are simple. Idiosyncratic, but simple.)

5. currently reading: Reading? Can’t read. No time! The Thrift Shop Vikings have invaded my brain and demand to be written. That plus lesson plans/materials because this new curriculum the county bought is a piece of shite. (I did read an article just now on Ginni Thomas and general dark money corruption.)

6. currently watching: Well... you see... I blew through all my high speed data from September downloading Baldur’s Gate, so I have been watching... not much at all.

7. currently eating/drinking: Welch’s version of Crystal Light. Passionfruit flavor. Smoking Othmani Aegean Spice.

8. currently craving: Panang curry with duck from the Thai pace I used to live around the corner and under the BART tracks from.

9. @motherofqups, @hoochieblues, @atypicalacademic, @verdinium

#tag game

3 notes · View notes

maddie-grove · 1 year

Text

Little Book Review: General Fiction Round-Up (May-December 2022)

Maddaddam by Margaret Atwood (2013): In the final volume of Atwood's environmental dystopian trilogy (preceded by Oryx and Crake and The Year of the Flood), the survivors of a manmade eco-fascist plague, along with a population of genetically engineered humanoids, must try to make a life in the ruins. Atwood is one of my favorite authors and, while I generally prefer her non-speculative fiction, I really enjoyed the whole trilogy. She's really engaged with the ideas she explores (mostly related to GMOs and income inequality) and grounds them vividly in everyday life. I especially like the way the genetically engineered humanoids (the Crakers) process the world around them.

The Testaments by Margaret Atwood (2019): In the sequel to The Handmaid's Tale, Atwood tells the story of three women in the same universe: a Commander's daughter in Gilead, a daughter of Mayday operatives living in Toronto, and Aunt Lydia, first seen "training" Handmaids in The Handmaid's Tale. I liked The Handmaid's Tale in high school, but I can't say I came away wanting to know more about that world...yet, as it turns out, I totally did want to know more about the pastel horrors of an elite Gilead girlhood. The audiobook is also top-notch, with Ann Dowd, Ann Whitman, and Bryce Dallas Howard doing the three main POVs.

Magic for Beginners by Kelly Link (2005): In nine "short" stories (many of them are quite long), Link writes about absurd things happening in mundane settings. Pretty Monsters, another short story collection of hers with some overlap, was one of my favorite books I read in 2014, but this time I wasn't feeling it. I'd already read the three best entries: "Stone Animals" (about a nebulously haunted house in a suburb of NYC), "Magic for Beginners" (about a mysterious TV show and a teen boy whose father is maybe trying to murder him via writing a novel), and "The Faery Handbag" (about a girl whose grandmother carries around an entire lost country in her purse). The others never really came together. I might have lost my taste for whimsy.

Dune by Frank Herbert (1965): In the very distant future, fifteen-year-old Paul Atreides has to move to a different planet for his father's work, and it only gets worse from there. I resisted reading Dune for the longest time because it sounded as dry as a desert planet where you have to reabsorb your own urine to survive. However, it fucks. I loved the layers of power dynamics and game-playing, especially in the scenes with Lady Jessica. Evil, horny Baron Harkonnen and his weirdly tragic nephew Feyd-Rautha were also great. I didn't like it so much after the time skip, though, and I think I'll give the sequels a pass.

The Final Girl Support Group by Grady Hendrix (2021): Paranoid and reclusive after being targeted twice by Christmas-themed killers, Lynette Tarkington's social life consists of a support group for "final girls" (women who have survived grisly massacres that were adapted into horror movies). I never quite got on board with this one, for two major reasons. The first is that I was irrationally annoyed by the idea that horror movies were seemingly all one-to-one true crime stories in this universe. That's on me. The second is that Hendrix never managed to convince me that most of these women had ever had a significantly positive relationship with each other. This novel could've been a Toast article.

Horrorstör by Grady Hendrix (2014): Amy, a cash-strapped and unhappy twenty-something working at an IKEA knockoff, is offered a transfer to a better store if she'll stay after-hours to investigate some strange recent happenings. This isn't my favorite Hendrix novel; however, it is the fucking scariest. The characterization isn't as rich as it is in most of his other novels--I would describe it as efficient--but the pacing is effectively brisk and the nature of the fake-IKEA haunting almost made me shit my pants.

We Sold Our Souls by Grady Hendrix (2018): Kris Pulaski, once a guitarist/songwriter for up-and-coming heavy metal group Dürt Würk, now lives a life of resignation as a hotel night manager. Meanwhile, her ex-bandmate Terry Hunt is still a massively successful rock star after going nu-metal...and suddenly Kris has reason to believe that he did something truly sinister to make that happen. After My Best Friend's Exorcism, this is my favorite Hendrix novel. He's unusually moderate in putting his heroine through the mill, both in terms of physical peril and self-flagellation, and balances it with the joy she finds in her creative life. The otherworldly threat she faces is nicely chilling, and I loved the bittersweet ending.

Stranger Things: The Other Side by Jody Houser (2019): In this tie-in comic to Stranger Things, we see the first season from twelve-year-old Will Byers's point-of-view as he struggles to survive in the Upside Down. There's some good characterization of Will and a few cool visuals, but overall it's pretty inessential. The writing is kind of flat and sometimes awkward, and the art style is overall muddy and unappealing.

Mysterious Skin by Scott Heim (1995): Neil and Brian, two kids growing up in the same midsized Kansas town, both have life-altering traumatic experiences in the summer of 1981. Brian doesn't remember what happened, and comes to believe in the following years that he was abducted by aliens; Neil knows exactly what went on between him and his sexually predatory Little League coach, but that doesn't mean he understands it. Several years ago, I saw the 2004 movie version, which is amazing both as an adaptation and on its own terms: nuanced, well-paced, beautifully acted and shot, and faithful to all that's good in the source material. Unfortunately, this did slightly lessen the impact of the (also stellar) novel.

Ghost Wall by Sarah Moss (2018): In the early 1990s, working-class seventeen-year-old Silvie spends a summer holiday in a Northumberland village, reenacting Iron Age life with her churlish history buff father, her downtrodden mother, a pompous anthropology professor, and three of his students. It's promising to be more miserable than your average family camping trip, between the lack of modern tech/food and Silvie's father's domestic tyrannies, but are we getting into The Wicker Man territory? This is a tense, deliciously creepy, and lyrical little novella that I finished in one evening because it was so exciting.

Normal People by Sally Rooney (2018): Withdrawn rich girl Marianne, despised at home and at school, starts a no-strings-attached relationship with working-class Connell, who's handsome and bright but kind of a follower. Thus begins an on-again, off-again thing that will follow them through college and change them forever. I really liked this romance between two troubled yet essentially sensible and sweet college students, although it's a bit slow at times. I especially enjoyed the first time that Connell and Marianne's power dynamic flips; she's kind of an It Girl at university, while he's out of his depth.

Summerwater by Sarah Moss (2020): Several families "enjoy" a miserable summer holiday by a Scottish lake over the course of a rainy day. We get the perspectives of several vacationers--judgmental moms, crotchety old men, worried newlyweds, teenagers desperate for wifi and privacy, anxious little kids--with several dark hints that someone will meet a terrible fate. Moss's writing is pleasurable to read and often funny, but I needed a damn flow chart for these people.

The Brittanys by Brittany Ackerman (2021): Brittany, a Floridian high school freshman in 2004, navigates life in her gated community and her suburban high school, hanging out with her friends (most of whom are also named Brittany) and wearing low-rise jeans. Maybe I was unduly influenced by the author being named Brittany, but this novel reads like a bunch of fond adolescent memories with the occasional gesture at some larger meaning. It feels like the author couldn't decide between trying to do an emotional mid-oughts coming-of-age story (like Lady Bird) or a slice-of-life portrait of a certain type of high school experience (like Fast Times at Ridgemont High). The stakes aren't high enough for the first (the biggest through-line is that Brittany's BFF Brittany might be a lesbian but neither of them seems to know it) and the scope isn't wide enough for the second. I think the book would've been better off as, like, two short stories.

8 notes · View notes