Hump Day Homework: Coffee Break

Need a break?  Grab a coffee, sit back, and follow these simple instructions:

Read: Chris Ver Weil: Starbucks Nation

I am not even going to attempt to explain this book, all you have to know is that there's an unhappy writer named Morgan, a talking chihuahua in a blue Prada bag, and lots and lots of caffeine, oh and elves. Starbucks Nation wouldn't run without elves. This satire on Hollywood, mindless entertainment, and, of course, the modern absurdity that is Starbucks, is a brilliant comment on American pop- and coffee culture - and one of the most entertaining books I have ever read.  

Watch: Coffee and Cigarettes (2003)

This movie is nothing for the easily irritated. The collection of strange, satirical, and slighly surreal vignettes that are all connected through - you guessed it: coffee and cigarettes -  starts off like your average deadpan comedy, when big names (Bill Murray, Cate Blanchett, Iggy Pop, Jack and Meg White to name a few) meet self-irony and existential wisdom over many cups of coffee - but you'll find that it is much more than that, and it'll leave you with haunting realizations about life, and the longing for a good cup of coffee. 

Listen To: Taylor Swift: Red

Red on iTunes

This girl sure loves her coffee, 'cause it seems like that's all she sings about on Red. Not my favorite album of hers (you can't top Speak Now - like ever!), but nevertheless a  hit, and home to some of her catchiest songs to date (22, Starlight, and of course We are Never Ever Getting Back Together). As a special treat, try to find the secret messages in the booklet over a cup of Maple Latte, you might be surprised....  

Peace, Love and Serendipity
Laura