Hurricane Bookshelf: December Edition

Winter vacation can be incredibly dull if you have nothing to do. Why not occupy yourself with a good book while you kill time in between semesters?

“Patti LuPone: A Memoir” (Patti LuPone; Crown Archetype) is a must-read for both Broadway fanatics and anyone who respects a true diva. LuPone, a two-time Tony Award winner, chronicles every sordid detail of her decades-long career on Broadway and in Hollywood with hilarity and panache. Most notable are the mentions of her feuds with theatrical impresario Andrew Lloyd Webber and her intense dislike of some fellow Broadway actors (shamelessly named in the book). LuPone’s memoir is an absolute joy to read.

“Barefoot Contessa How Easy Is That?: Fabulous Recipes and Easy Tops” (Ina Garten; Crown Publishing Group) makes cooking easy for students who have to fend for themselves while they are far from the dining halls. Released in October of this year, Garten’s cookbook keeps it simple but delicious. Its recipes are slightly more advanced that Easy Mac, but at least readers won’t starve during the cold winter months. Kick back, relax and have a pink grapefruit margarita.

“Cleopatra: A Life” (Stacy Schiff; Little, Brown & Company) captures the life and times of one of history’s most scandalous queens. Having defeated her brother’s forces and capturing the heart of Julius Caesar by age 18, Cleopatra’s legend has only grown greater since her death nearly 2,000 years ago. This biography presents a vivid portrait of a legend’s life.

Sarah B. Pilchick may be contacted at