In this weekly column, MC/DJ Hesta Prynn pairs pop culture stories with an original playlist.Memorial Day Weekend usually makes me think of the beach, booze and (vegan) BBQs. However, it's been raining in New York City since the late 80s, so this year's Memorial Day Weekend has me thinking board games, booze and books. But what to read/listen to while trapped indoors? This week's Five n Five pairs some of my personal favorite Memorial Day reading suggestions with chilled out tracks from The Weeknd.
Apron Anxiety by Alyssa Shelasky: "One of Those Nights" by Juicy J ft. The Weeknd
Ever wonder what it's like to be on the inside of the celebrity chef world? Shelasky's memoir centers on her experiences dating a hot Top Chef alum and confronting her fear of cooking. It's the perfect reading material for a rainy summer day and rumor is that a sequel is on the way.
Daily Rituals: How Artists Work by Mason Currey: "Wicked Games" by The Weeknd
Amphetemines, excessive coffee consumption, masturbating -- I'm looking at you Thomas Wolfe. Daily Rituals is a new book that outlines the day-to-day work routines of some of our favorite artists. See? You're not the only one procrastinating!
This Perfect Day by Ira Levin: "The Zone" by The Weeknd ft. Drake
This book, by the author of Rosemary's Baby and The Stepford Wives, is, in my opinion, the greatest "negative utopia" book ever written. It was my favorite sci-fi book all through high school and college and definitely holds up. Read and enjoy (if you can find a copy).
China in Ten Words by Yu Hua: "Kiss Land" by The Weeknd
If you're at all curious about this defining moment in Chinese history I'd suggest you read this collection of personal essays by this very successful Chinese novelist. When you're done, tear through his novels starting with Chronicle of a Blood Merchant.
Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl Written by Herself by Harriet Jacobs: "Marry the Night" (The Weeknd and Illangelo Remix) by Lady Gaga
This non-fiction work is exactly as the title describes it. It is one of the most compelling, shocking, disturbing and eye-opening books I've ever read. It's certainly not light reading, but if you pick it up this weekend you won't put it down until you've finished. Right now it's free in the Kindle store.