Looking for things to do now that summer is (unofficially) over? Turn your attention to these books, TV shows, and music with ties to the Northern Virginia area — whether you want something just for fun or you’re hoping to learn something new, these new offerings are sure to keep you entertained.
Books
In the Lives of Puppets by T.J. Klune
In this fantasy-adventure novel from a Fredericksburg author, a human lives with a small family of robots. Their life together is threatened when one is captured, and the rest have to journey to protect the family.
President Garfield: From Radical to Unifier by C.W. Goodyear
A historian based in Alexandria delves into the life and legacy of James Garfield, whose presidency was cut short by an assassination. The author explores Garfield’s rural roots, his work in Congress, and his death’s effect on America.
The Wave by Tyler Charlton
This children’s book, written and illustrated by a Northern Virginia resident, follows a young boy who is swept up on a wave of sadness, a touching metaphor for young readers coping with depression.
TV
Secret Invasion
Keep up with the latest happenings in the Marvel Cinematic Universe with this new miniseries on Disney+, featuring Alexandria-born actor Dermot Mulroney. The show focuses on Nick Fury as he works to protect Earth from an invasion of shape-shifting aliens called Skrulls.
Music
Thirteen Paper Cranes by Elevado
Don’t miss the new album by this duo of local singer-songwriters. Its vulnerable, reflective lyrics are inspired by their own lives, and acoustic instrumentals complement those stories beautifully. Out September 15.
Feature photo courtesy Simon & Schuster (President Garfied); and Post Hill Press (In the Lives of Puppets)
This story originally ran in our September issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.
