By McKenna Uzelac, Columbia University

It is more important than ever to remember the teachings of renowned Black feminist scholar as we consider empathy in our own communities.

By Anna Barnard, St. Olaf College

Mental health struggles have become increasingly more common. This graphic novel is helpful in both finding coping mechanisms and understanding ailments that readers may not have experienced personally.

By Emilia Chavez, Rice University

Amy Poehler, Hope Jahren and James Comey reveal that although success seems bright and shiny from the outside, the journey there is often bumpy.

By Elias Khoury, University of Michigan

Though Robin DiAngelo’s book clearly comes from a well-meaning place, does the book undermine the possibility for working-class solidarity across races?

By Anna Barnard, St. Olaf College

The Washington D.C. trio puts catchy piano melodies at the center of their sound, and wears their love of Queen on their sleeves.

By Aubrey Doerr, Chapman University

So, you want to make music? The first steps don’t have to be hard or pricey when you know where to start.

By Chase Cutarelli, Columbia University

So-called ‘portal fantasy’ reveals the awe, fear and transformative power of traveling to another world — one that might be appealing in our present dystopia.

By Abigail Campos, University of Texas at San Antonio

Just because the author has revealed her transphobia doesn’t mean fans have to completely abandon the the franchise. Instead, they can reclaim it.

By Jackie Sizing, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

The Minneapolis-born country-folk artist uses his music to create narratives worth sharing.

By Mitchell Tanaka, Chapman University

Alan Moore’s comics explored a character’s psyche that continues to resonate with contemporary politics, albeit for the wrong reasons.

By Mia Kellner, University of St Andrews

The ‘Divergent’ author’s newest novel revitalizes the tired ‘chosen one’ trope by weaving a compelling narrative about what happens to heroes after saving the world.

By Yasmeen Ludy, University of Michigan

Whether it’s with their happy music or their inspiring lyrics, these songs will help keep you afloat through all of life’s stresses.

By Gabrielle Pascal, Hofstra University

They are often essential community institutions, and their continued survival during the pandemic is now more important than ever.

By Emilia Chavez, Rice University

In light of the chaos coming out of Washington D.C. today, this book is the perfect read to cure your woes.

By Starr Shapiro, Columbia University

Susan Choi’s novel defies conventional wisdom about fiction and intentionally creates characters that are hard to relate to — making a unique, compelling read in the process.

By Renee Cantor, University of Pittsburgh

Saeed Jones’ memoir is an honest and striking coming-of-age story about the Black queer experience and fighting to become yourself.

By Hannah Docter-Loeb, Wesleyan University

The video-sharing app uses a variety of different types of sounds and phrases, but just where exactly did these catchy snippets come from?

By Anna Swenson, Butler University

The Hulu miniseries uses everyday scenes to take on an all too persistent problem in the fight for racial equality.

By Julia Greene, Columbia College Chicago

Beth O’Leary’s debut novel, which features a very unusual living arrangement, makes the case for the genre as possessing real emotional depth.

By Tamara Kamis, Cornell University

Whether you’re strapped for time, want to learn more about the environment or have the need to comprehend how the mind works, there’s something for you.

By Emily Jewett, University of San Diego

Julie Berry mixes the gods of Ancient Greece with romance and World War I, all in a novel that portrays the violence of white supremacy. 

By Tess McGrinder, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

In this memoir, the comedian uses his personal experiences in South Africa and the U.S. to outline the fundamental irrationality behind racism — and why it continues to flourish.

By Mia Kellner, University of St Andrews

Almost everything magical in the fantasy series relies on the use of animals in some shape or form. Is it even possible for a vegan to live in this world, and would they even want to?

By Gabrielle Pascal, Hofstra University

American pop culture has been defined by black excellence for decades. From Gordon Parks to Aaliyah, black artists continue to influence the new generation.

By Luke Gair, Sewanee: The University of the South

The Mason family left an imprint on the West Hollywood queer scene with their shop. Years later, members of the community talk of its unwavering relevance.

By Eva Halvax, University of Arizona

By Aubrey Doerr, Chapman University

During times like these, creatives have way too much time on their hands. One result: killer web comics with deadly serious undertones.

By Audrey Martin, Boston University

Once a cherished author, the ‘Harry Potter’ writer has fallen from grace due to her continued ignorance regarding trans and other members of the queer community.

By Anna Swenson, Butler University

For fans who just finished the series, leaving the world they’ve come to love just isn’t an option. Fortunately, they don’t have to.

By Julia Greene, Columbia College Chicago

Written on a prison typewriter, the novel tells the story of a young man who falls in love, joins the war and robs banks to pay for heroin  — a tale not unlike the author’s own life.

By Mitchell Tanaka, Chapman University

Acting as an anthem for protests around the world, the rap duo’s latest album is far from the first time the group has encouraged social change.

By Mia Kellner, University of St Andrews

At first glance, ‘The Hunger Games’ prequel has flat characters and a dull Hunger Games. However, is Suzanne Collins just challenging readers to reflect on how they view violence in entertainment?

By Nora Markey, Wesleyan University

While country music has grown overproduced and glamorous, this young, gritty musician embodies the traditions that built the genre.

By Chase Cutarelli, Columbia University

Eric Cervini’s historical opus describes how homophobia within American law enforcement bears a striking resemblance to racist policing practices.

By Abigail Campos, University of Texas at San Antonio

This wildly popular, binge-worthy web comic takes the myth of Hades and Persephone and sticks it into today’s world.

By Caleb Mullenneaux, St. Olaf College

Throughout Perfume Genius’ latest album, Mike Hadreas embraces emotional excess and channels it into one of the best indie pop efforts of the year.

By Ailun Shi, UC Berkeley

All good things must come to an end. By constantly amending their works, authors like J.K. Rowling risk ruining their books — and stunting the growth of young fan fiction writers.

By Katie Klear, Columbia College Chicago

In attempts to combat the lack of diversity, writers from non-marginalized communities often miss the mark when writing about groups they don’t identify with.

By Emma Tavangari, UC Berkeley

With her new album, many listeners had hoped the artist would create music that cemented her genius. Instead, fans were left underwhelmed.

By Anna Swenson, Butler University

Suzanne Collins’ new prequel to the ‘Hunger Games’ trilogy investigates the origins of the series’s central villain, President Snow, without justifying his hunger for power.

By Aubrey Doerr, Chapman University

Virtual concerts are proving popular as major players in the musical world work hard to find new ways to engage their fans despite the need for social distancing.

By McKenna Uzelac, Columbia University

As June begins and protests over racial injustice continue, it’s important to make space for queer black literature.

By Megan Stager, University of Pittsburgh

One of the most visionary acts in electronic music is back with a new release that renews and alters elements of their previous work.

By Emma Smith, Wesleyan University

Boasting poetic lyrics and lighter melodies, the Brooklyn native’s latest album is a concept record exploring what it means to have everything.

By Cathleen Luo, Columbia University

The acclaimed novelist writes that, much like writing, running requires deliberate practice, even when you don’t feel completely passionate about it.

By James C. Loftis, University of North Texas

The actor and musician’s fourth studio album shows just how much he has matured both musically and creatively throughout his career.

By Julia Greene, Columbia College Chicago

Framed as a series of letters to her daughters, the star comedian uses her book to explore life experiences, inequality and her culture with her trademark vulgar hilarity.

By Nora Markey, Wesleyan University

In a bold statement about the absurdity of the current music industry, this musical duo takes their sound to satirical extremes.

By Reem Farhat, Fordham University

Fans of Korean idols and idol groups are organizing around the world to crash alt-right Twitter hashtags and boost black activism on YouTube.

By Chase Cutarelli, Columbia University

Published in 2017, Paul Butler’s book equips supporters of Black Lives Matter with one more important resource to curb racism in law enforcement.

By Kayla Johnson, Bradley University

Using the small publishing platform, the ‘After’ author was able to make a name for herself — and at the same time, raise the possibility that others could do the same.

By Sarah Gudenau, Oakland University

Some say that the release runs a little long, but its experimentation, as well as lyrics that are both sentimental and politically charged, make it something memorable.

By Nayeli G. Pena, Colorado College

Hailing from the U.K., the band mixes hip-hop, jazz, indie rock, pop and ambient house — and they haven’t let quarantine dampen their prospects.

By Victoria Acosta, Southern Adventist University

Although the stories of Greek gods and goddesses may originate from thousands of years ago, the lessons they give to us still resonate today.

By Asha MacKay, Wellesley College

The up-and-coming artist shares her distinctive voice and style with her livestreamed performances and new EP, ‘Otherside.’

By Alyssa Alexander, SUNY Buffalo State

Even nearly 20 years later, this classic graphic novel from the author of ‘Persepolis’ stands up for women, not just in Iran, but worldwide.

By Michelle Young, Simon Fraser University

Contemporary rhythm and blues has been one of the most prominent musical styles over the past few years — what are these global newcomers adding to the mix?

By Janani Mangai Srinivasan, Wake Forest University

From the intricacies of penguin poop to the origin of bellybutton lint, these works will answer questions you didn’t even think to ask.

By Kali Johnson, Gustavus Adolphus College

The Canadian singer took the world by storm, and now with a newfound voice, she is determined to defeat the odds set upon her by the media.

By Bradford Smith, Louisiana State University

‘Men have called me mad but the question is not yet settled, whether madness is or is not the loftiest intelligence.’ — Edgar Allan Poe

By Nayeli G. Pena, Colorado College

The single may have come out two years ago, but the song remains even more relevant today.

By Janani Mangai Srinivasan, Wake Forest University

The 6-year-old lead character of the long-running manga and anime not only investigates crimes, but the culture of his native land as well.

By Bradford Smith, Louisiana State University

After two decades and traversing multiple genres, the rock duo has stayed loyal to the musical tradition that got them started.

By Kate Carter, Middle Tennessee State University

If you don’t think you have the time to read the longer classics, these shorter fiction works that span a wide range of genres will help you on your literary journey. 

By Janani Mangai Srinivasan, Wake Forest University

It’s time people start taking the genre seriously.

By Nanda Illahi, Okayama University

Set against the backdrop of Malaysia’s infamous 1969 race riots, this young adult novel and webtoon deals with the horrors of prejudice and trauma.

By Desiree Jaime, Hofstra University

The latest iteration of the long-running reality show franchise mixes song and romance.

By Karunya Bhramasandra, Stanford University

There’s so many approaches that you can take; the important thing is to do what feels right to you. 

By Bradford Smith, Louisiana State University

Whether he’s playing drums in Dead Weather or fronting his own White Stripes, the storied musician retains his own undeniable sound. 

By Sarah Stager, University of Pittsburgh

The legendary author identified the pain all around us, but still found reasons to be optimistic about the human spirit.

By Desiree Jaime, Hofstra University

The rapper and comedian, real name Dave Burd, opens up on his autobiographical FXX television show.

By Nina Dutta, Occidental College

The British singer remained mysterious and kept his fans engaged while he hinted at his music video drop.

By Brian Anderson Gil, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo

Twenty years after the film adaptation of his novel ‘American Psycho,’ the author maintains his status as someone with an honest artistic vision.

By Rose Younglove, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

The Lorrie Moore short story, told in second person, is a powerful statement about not giving up on your ambitions.

By S. T. Perez, Texas A&M University, San Antonio

Set against the context of the #MeToo movement, the debut novel of Kate Elizabeth Russell probes into the interactions between a predatory man and his teenage student.

By Karunya Bhramasandra, Stanford University

During stressful times like these, it’s reassuring to return to old, beloved stories instead of forging into the new and unknown.

By S. T. Perez, Texas A&M University, San Antonio

Against the backdrop of a small Texas town, Elizabeth Wetmore’s novel is a gritty depiction of a violent, patriarchal society.

By Nayeli G. Pena, Colorado College

The band has managed to create a unique sound and aesthetic with every new album, leaving many wondering what else they might have in store.

By Angel Lin, University of California, Santa Barbara

It’s Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, so why not read about the importance of loving and accepting our identities?

By Karunya Bhramasandra, Stanford University

What is it exactly that gets lost in the void between the page and the screen — and why do fans of the book get so mad about it?

By Janani Mangai Srinivasan, Wake Forest University

The K-pop group’s loyal fan base, known as the BTS ARMY, has run into some pushback in their quest to pump up views on platforms like YouTube.

By Kaelani Ramirez, Arizona State University

They might not be getting big movie or TV adaptations, but they might just become your new favorites.

By Michelle Young, Simon Fraser University

The heartwarming young adult novel follows an Asian American teenager caught between the culture of the United States and her parents’ homeland.

By Nanda Illahi, Okayama University

With British, Spanish and Korean members, the UK band has people everywhere divided on what it means to be a K-pop group.

By Desiree Jaime, Hofstra University

Make sure you prepare and go with a partner, and there will be no limit to what you might find.

By Kaelani Ramirez, Arizona State University

Writing a poem can be a terrifying process. Here are some tips to make the journey easier.

By Nayeli G. Pena, Colorado College

The Florida rapper joins Billie Eilish and Lil Nas X as the latest artist accused of having a manufactured stardom. Are we too quick to affix the label of inauthenticity to popular musicians?

By Michelle Young, Simon Fraser University

The lo-fi artist’s extended play is unapologetically emotional and honest, providing an exploration of what it means to move on from heartache.

By Katherine McLaughlin, The New School

It’s perfectly normal to feel confused as you fully enter adulthood. This book by Dr. Meg Jay shows some ways to attain clarity and direction.

By Katherine McLaughlin, The New School

The genre gets a bad rap, but those willing to dig deeper will find some clever ways of composing tight, compelling stories.

By Nina Dutta, Occidental College

The band’s latest album is their first full-length in seven years, and depending on who you ask, it’s either a derivative retread or a much-need return to the sounds of the 2000s.

By Katherine McLaughlin, The New School

Polished lesson plans and real-world examples from the prestigious paper of record will give anyone the skills they need to become better at writing.

By Janani Mangai Srinivasan, Wake Forest University

The fungi’s had a long journey from being a part of religious ceremonies to something to take while watching trippy movies in your dorm room.

By Lauren Buchko, Michigan State University

The versatile musician has moved beyond her ‘Whip My Hair’ days, and she deserves a lot more recognition.

By Rose Younglove, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

The Batman universe courts controversy with its fandom by turning the original Robin/Nightwing into an edgy bad boy with amnesia.

By Angel Lin, University of California, Santa Barbara

The zine released by the Asian American Feminist Collective offers a communal response to the emerging anti-Asian xenophobia in the wake of COVID-19.

By Brian Anderson Gil, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo

These two California twins draw from a huge range of influences to make a sound that may not be commercial, but remains true to their artistic vision.

By Vaishnavi Kalyana, College of DuPage

It’s not just festival cancellations that hurt. As COVID-19 continues to spread, the future of the business is starting to get dark.

By Bradford Smith, Louisiana State University

The trailblazing style of the late guitar player can be seen in both blues and rock ‘n’ roll, including in artists like the Black Keys.

By Nayeli G. Pena, Colorado College

Once made up of musicians recording songs at home, the style is now infiltrating the mainstream.