Issue #231: Every Book and Movie I Can't Wait to Come Out in 2026 (Plus a Downloadable Calendar)

And my plans for the year ahead. 👀

💅 ‘Active Bright’ by The Manicurist*: The only time I see my toes this time of year is on the yoga mat, but it’s been a week since I added this polish and I have to say, it gives me a little thrill during down-dog. It’s just a touch more shimmery than my natural nail, and apparently strengthening.

💿 “Aperture” by Harry Styles: Welcome to my new hyper-fixation song, which I’ve taken to blasting on repeat every time I do my daily physical therapy exercises for my ankle. I love the building backbone of a beat, that reminds me a bit of LCD Soundsystem, and the music video inspired a rewatch of ‘Weapon of Choice,’ given the similar retro hotel dance vibes, right down to the escalator choreo.

🍚 Salmon with Lentils (gift link to NYT recipe): I recently cooked dinner at my friend’s house, and we made this French salmon with lentils and a mirepoix base, and served it with roasted kalettes and beets. I usually associate fish with summer meals, but this was such a warming meal on a cold night.

Also intrigued by the new movie, ‘The Testament of Ann Lee.’ Have you seen it?

*P.S. Lots of new subscribers here, so wanted to share again that there are never any affiliate links here, just genuine recs! Also, welcome, welcome to this corner of the internet! xx

Last week, I did the unthinkable. I walked into a new bookstore and left without a single book. This might actually be the first time I have ever done this, but my “to read” list is already about a mile long, and so many incredible books are coming out this year, I feel like I need to clear the decks (my coffee table) in anticipation of this years’ releases. Take, for example, the fact that Lauren Groff, Tayari Jones, and Rebecca Kauffman all have books coming out on the same day next month (February 24th) and May reads like a who’s who of the literary world.

Browsed, but didn't buy (for once!) at Selected Stories in Portland

Every year, around this time, I comb through my publicity emails and “most anticipated” lists to request galleys and add book, movie, and show releases to a Google calendar that helps me stay on top of it all. It feels good to have something tangible to look forward to, however small, especially in the midst of so much unknown. Read on for:

• 16+ upcoming books I’m most excited to get my hands on

• A downloadable Google calendar with the release dates of every book, movie, and show I’m looking forward to (so far!)

• Trailers for 4 movies I can’t wait to catch in theaters

• My own loose plans for the year (!) by season