Ted Lasso
Apple+ consistently delivers high-quality programmes, which is why I've recommended many already. The final season of the feel-good comedy Ted Lasso is now out with a perfect ending for every character arc. Have you watched it yet?
Spiderman: Across the Spiderverse
This highly-rated movie might seem like kids' fare but don't let the title, subject or animation fool you. With influences from Edward Hopper, Jackson Pollock, Bollywood, Leonardo da Vinci, Johnny Rotten - and more - it's one of my favourites of 2023.
Inventing ourselves
Ever wondered about the science of the developing human brain? Billed as a study of teenage brains, this book teaches how we evolve and change. Perfect for understanding that strange teenager at home, or for adding that twist to a business plan.
Suburra
Rome comes across as a gritty, violent and lawless place in the excellent Suburra TV series. Exquisite photography and character-driven plots means you'll be on the edge of your seat for most of this 3 season spectacle. (But don't let this cancel your plans to holiday in the Eternal City! ☺️)
The Ink Black Heart
I'm catching up with Robert Galbraith's (or J K Rowling's) prodigious output and am devouring The Ink Black Heart. It's a doorstop of a book, which is perfect for summer. What will you be reading on the beach?
And just like that (Season 2)
I confess I was sceptical about the Sex-and-the-City sequel, And Just Like That. Scorned by critics, I was surprised that the first series was entertaining with a modern take on the characters from the 90s. Season 2 has just dropped, so it's Cosmopolitan time again.
Before and laughter
A comedian writing a self-help book? It sounds like a joke, but edgy British comedian Jimmy Carr does a wonderful job of putting together pithy life hacks (with jokes sprinkled throughout).
Barry
An assassin has a crisis of confidence and decides to become an actor instead. Unlikely? Perhaps. His attempts at trying to reconcile the two parts of his life are the basis of this highly-rated dark HBO comedy starring Bill Hader and Henry Winkler. Available on your favourite streaming service.
Grant County series (Karen Slaughter)
Karen Slaughter's addictive Grant County series is what's draining my Kindle battery these days. Tight plot lines, twists at every turn and a dark mind that comes up with gruesome crimes - I think I'm falling in love!
Air
Based on the true story of how Nike changed the world of advertising, Air has the dream team of Ben Affleck and Matt Damon back together for a joyful romp through the 80s. In cinemas now.