"I absolutely loved this book, as it made me really think about the fine line between human and machines. The plot is on the slower side, but it is worth it for the story and excellent writing."

 -- Isabella Palit '24

The Tichborne Trial, a real historical scandal, serves as the backdrop for this wonderfully bizarre study of human relationships. In The Fraud, Zadie Smith spins a quirky and anachronistic tale out of characters that are infuriatingly human – you will hate them, you will love them, and they will remind you of yourself in ways that will make you beyond uncomfortable. Follow a sweeping tale that touches upon topics ranging from colonialism to suffrage to the art of writing itself, and let yourself be captivated by Smith’s caustic humor and poetic writing style. Head over to your local library and find yourself a copy of The Fraud today!

 -- Ila Chakrav '26

Arcadia is one of the most memorable readings in the MAMS Humanities class, and with that unit right around the corner for the juniors, it feels like the perfect time to review another Tom Stoppard play, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead. The play follows Rosencrantz and Guildenstern as they drift in and out of the main events of Shakespeare’s Hamlet. The protagonists are wandering the void one minute, and find themselves thrust into another major plot point in Hamlet the next, confusing the audience as much as the characters. As the play goes on, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern grow tired of their unpredictable existence and lose their sense of control over reality. I would absolutely recommend Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead, especially as a complement to Arcadia because they deal with similar themes in different ways and from different angles. I would also, of course, recommend Hamlet as a prerequisite. While you’re at it, why not make it a Hamlet-themed triple feature and listen to the This American Life story Act V, about a group of prisoners staging the play. Whether or not you choose to check these things out, you’re bound to enjoy Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead.

 -- Cecilia Carbonell '25