The journey we’ve all undertaken during the COVID era has been long and winding, with each of us finding unique ways to cope. For some, it was immersing themselves in true crime documentaries or taking up a new hobby like bread baking. Others turned their homes into spotless showrooms or became hooked on social media platforms. As for me, I co-founded a makeup challenge group called The Quarantine Cuties with my best friend Samantha.
We invited our friends and family to join us in weekly makeup challenges that would help us get through the long days of lockdown.
The brainchild of ours was born out of necessity – we needed a way to stay connected, express ourselves creatively, and have some fun during a time when human interaction was limited. And so, our group took shape, with each participant encouraged to interpret the challenges in their own unique way and share their creations with the rest of us.
Some of my favorite weeks were ‘Decades’, where we highlighted a different era each day; ‘Heroes’, which allowed us to celebrate people who inspire us; and ‘Pantone Colors of the Years’, during which I discovered that 2020’s ‘Classic Blue’ was a glaring omission from my makeup collection. The freedom to express ourselves through makeup has been incredibly liberating, and I’ve loved seeing what inspires each of our group members.
The ‘Books’ challenge was particularly special – who wouldn’t want to celebrate their favorite stories? Seeing how my fellow Cuties interpreted the characters, plots, or themes from their beloved books using eyeshadow, blush, lipstick, and mascara was nothing short of amazing. And, I have to admit, it’s been a thrill seeing how our group has evolved over time, with each new challenge bringing its own unique energy.
Beloved by Toni Morrison
It’s no secret that Toni Morrison’s works can be life-changing, and my high school experience with one of her novels was a pivotal moment in shaping my worldview. As an AP English student, I was given the freedom to explore the darker aspects of our world through Morrison’s powerful storytelling. The book in question not only sparked a newfound appreciation for her writing but also set me on a path to devouring all of her works.
In fact, I’ve been so captivated by her stories that I’m long overdue for a re-read of this masterpiece.
Call Me by Your Name by Andre Aciman
Even if you’ve had exposure to the story through a film adaptation, I strongly recommend reading this book. In fact, the novel offers a unique experience that can provide a more satisfying conclusion for viewers who left the movie feeling unsatisfied. The beautifully crafted narrative explores themes of coming-of-age and first love in a way that will resonate deeply with readers.
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
As I reflect on my past academic experiences, I’m reminded of a literary choice that didn’t quite align with the expectations set forth by my Junior Year AP English summer reading assignment. What I did instead was immerse myself in the timeless classic, The Old Man and the Sea, which, although not part of the original plan, proved to be an enriching experience nonetheless. In hindsight, it’s clear that this unexpected detour had a significant impact on my literary journey.
Savage Continent by Keith Lowe
While it may seem unconventional to draw inspiration from a book covering a specific period of history, this nonfiction work effectively fills in the gaps between the end of WWII and the early days of the Cold War. Unlike typical accounts that simply gloss over this era, this book delves into the intricacies of how European nations transitioned from liberation to either US-friendly or Soviet-aligned governments.
It also provides valuable context on how these countries responded to Nazism, the experiences of civilian populations, and the complex power dynamics at play during this pivotal time.
The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller
The novel ‘The Song of Achilles’ has been mentioned frequently this week, and for good reason – it’s an unforgettable read. The story is masterfully told from the perspective of Patroclus, a character who makes brief appearances in Homer’s ancient epic, the Iliad. This stunning narrative is characterized by its intimate and poignant portrayal of longing, set against the backdrop of the legendary Trojan War.
My inspiration for this look was not only influenced by the book’s striking cover but also by the pivotal moment when Patroclus first lays eyes on Achilles – a radiant, confident, and golden demigod who leaves him utterly smitten. This sense of adoration permeates the entire story, and I aimed to capture the essence of Achilles’ divine quality in this design.
Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck
While I may not be a self-proclaimed bookworm like Elizabeth, my relationship with reading has been a work in progress. In school, reading was often a chore for me, and I struggled to find enjoyment in it. However, there was one notable exception: John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men. This classic novel holds a special place in my heart as the first book that truly resonated with me.
It’s funny how life comes full circle – who would have thought that a school assignment would turn out to be the catalyst for my newfound appreciation of reading? As I look back, it’s clear that Of Mice and Men was more than just a required read; it marked a turning point in my journey as a reader.
Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt
As fate would have it, I found myself working at a movie theater when the film adaptation of the book premiered. Although I didn’t have the chance to watch it on the big screen, the soundtrack during the closing credits left an indelible mark on me. It sparked my interest in reading the book, and once I did, I was hooked. Eventually, I managed to catch the movie, but it’s safe to say that my affection for the book far surpassed any cinematic experience.
Interestingly, one of the characters from the book inspired me greatly, particularly Lady Chablis, whose captivating essence was perfectly captured by a single actress – none other than Lady Chablis herself.
Unforgivable Love by Sophfronia Scott
Are you craving a timeless love story with a twist? Look no further than ‘Unforgettable Love’ by Sophronia Scott, which brings together the elegance of classic literature and the passion of modern romance. Imagine a setting reminiscent of ‘Dangerous Liaisons’, ‘Cruel Intentions’, or ‘Valmont’, but instead of the opulent 18th century French court, it’s set in post-WWII Harlem, where the glamour of the 1940s meets the vibrancy of the city that never sleeps.
This unique blend of eras and styles is sure to captivate readers who crave a love story with depth, excitement, and a dash of sophistication.
The Immortalists by Chloe Benjamin
Imagine walking into a book club meeting where opinions are sharply divided over a single novel. For me, that book was [insert title here]. While some members absolutely adored it, others were left scratching their heads. So, what made this book so polarizing? It all starts with its unique premise: a family of children visits a mystic who reveals to each of them the exact day they’ll meet their demise. The twist? They then go on to live their lives with this foreboding knowledge.
While it’s not your typical Stephen King horror novel, there’s an unmistakable air of unease that permeates every page.
Becoming by Michelle Obama
As part of my experience at Michelle Obama’s book tour, I was fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of her in person. Her attire that evening left a lasting impression on me – specifically the boots she wore, which quickly went viral and earned widespread acclaim. Today, I’m paying tribute to the incredible Michelle LaVaughn Robinson Obama, an individual who embodies excellence in multiple facets: intelligence, creativity, and charisma.
The outfit she wore during our brief encounter serves as a testament to her impeccable style.
Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys
For fans of historical fiction, Ruta Sepetys’ books are a must-read, particularly her WWII novels that shed light on the often-overlooked experiences of the Lithuanian people caught between German and Soviet forces. This particular title was a selection for my book club several months ago, and since then, I’ve devoured every Sepetys novel.
I Am Malala by Malala Yousefzai
Drawing from a unique source of inspiration, I find myself drawn to Malala Yousafzai’s iconic appearance on the cover of her bestselling book. Specifically, it is her striking outfit that piques my interest, evoking a familiar color palette reminiscent of the Malala T-shirt owned by my 7-year-old daughter – a delightful coincidence that sparks my creative journey.
High Fidelity by Nick Hornby
Today, I’m drawing inspiration from my all-time favorite book series – High Fidelity by Nick Hornby. Interestingly, I first came across the story as a movie, which left me beaming with delight when I discovered it was adapted from a novel! What’s more, the film did an impressive job of capturing the essence of the book, making it a rare instance where the big screen adaptation didn’t disappoint.
This shared passion for High Fidelity even served as an unexpected icebreaker between my close friend and me, as we bonded over our love for the movie’s iconic lines and memorable characters. Since then, I’ve gone on to devour most of Hornby’s literary works and enjoyed a few film adaptations based on his books.
Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow
Inspired by the captivating cover of a book that has me utterly enthralled, yet somehow manages to put me to sleep mere pages in. As a nocturnal reader, I often find myself staying up far too late, entranced by an engaging tale. Interestingly, this particular title has been my constant companion for over two years now, with me dipping in and out of its pages whenever the mood strikes.
The Giver by Lois Lowry
The book that had a profound impact on me is ‘The Giver’ by Lois Lowry. It was during my 7th grade English class that I experienced a pivotal moment in my reading journey. Our teacher read us this iconic novel aloud, and it was one of those rare moments that changed the way I perceive the world. In the book, the characters live in a world where colors are absent, only seeing shades of black, white, and gray.
It’s not until Jonas, the protagonist, catches a glimpse of an apple’s vibrant red hue that the reader is struck by the stark reality of their monochromatic existence. Today’s aesthetic draws inspiration from this pivotal moment, with a palette featuring predominantly black, white, and gray tones, punctuated by subtle hints of red.
Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
As I embarked on a literary journey, I revisited the classic novel ‘Anne of Green Gables’. This beloved series holds a special place in my childhood memories. The fondness I have for it is so strong that my middle name, Anne, is actually inspired by this iconic book – my mother’s unique choice was influenced both by its distinct spelling and her love for the character.
Fall into Darkness by Christopher Pike
In middle school, I had a voracious appetite for books, devouring dozens of titles in no time at all. Robert James Stevenson’s work held a special place in my heart – his YA novels, such as ‘Remember Me’, were incredibly popular among my peers, but it was his lesser-known series, ‘Fall Into Darkness’, that truly captured my imagination. I would often consume two or three books over the course of a weekend, and my love for reading only grew stronger with each passing day.
In fact, I read so many of R. L. Stein’s books that a simple Google search for book covers would yield a staggering list of over 80 titles I had devoured.
The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane by Lisa See
Lisa See’s writing is captivating, and I’ve enjoyed every book by her. Among them, ‘The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane’ stands out as a unique and engaging read. The story masterfully interlaces the lives of two women – a Chinese minority woman and the child she gave up for adoption – against the rich backdrop of China’s tea industry. Initially, this premise might seem unassuming, but trust me, it’s anything but mundane.
The Monster at the End of this Book
As I navigate the unpredictable nature of our current reality, my daily routine is largely dictated by the anticipation and expectation of sharing my morning look with this community. Over the past year, we’ve formed a bond that transcends mere acquaintanceship, relying on each other for emotional support and connection. For some, this shared experience has become an informal form of therapy, allowing us to process our emotions and find solace in each other’s company.
I, too, have discovered a newfound passion for honing my makeup skills during this time, and I’m grateful for the sense of accomplishment that comes with it.
While some people have used their isolation to produce remarkable works of art or literature, I’ve found joy in perfecting my own creative expression through makeup. And as I look forward to sharing my daily looks with all of you, I’m reminded of the importance of human connection and community.