Sunday Paper Recommends—Week of March 31, 2024

At The Sunday Paper, we're always discovering books, podcasts, films, and other works that move the needle and spark inspiring change. We hope these suggestions—plus this this one item we've been turning to lately—open your heart and mind and encourage you to come together for meaningful conversations.

What We’re Reading

RuPaul has evolved into one of pop culture's most iconic, iconoclastic, dazzling figures. The producer, TV personality, and drag icon is known for an endless well of creativity and force. Still, even with all the RuPaul appearances, how well does the public know this star? In The House of Hidden Meanings, RuPaul's memoir, he tells his deep, personal story, starting from his years growing up a gay Black in California to forming his community and identity in Atlanta and New York City. RuPaul's memoir holds nothing back and is a beautiful journey of self-acceptance, love, meaning, and identity. 

What We’re Watching

Love on the Spectrum, the heartfelt Netflix docuseries, has returned with a Season 2 this year, and we're telling everyone to watch. The romantic stories follow neurodivergent people seeking love and partnership while navigating the world of dating. Like the first, this season is rich with tender moments. We meet Journey, who gets ready for her first date, follow James as he goes out with someone he met on Instagram, and learn about so many other amazing people seeking love. Every episode leaves us feeling hopeful.

What We’re Listening to

The world has been waiting. It's been five years in the making. And now, it's here: Beyoncé's just-released album, "Cowboy Carter," is an epic, gorgeous journey that only the star could carry forth. Rich with cinematic lyrics, cameos by country's finest, from Dolly Parton to Willie Nelson, and renditions of legendary songs, including "Blackbird" by the Beatles, this album is poignant and unforgettable. More than an appreciation for musical genius and pioneers, it shows Beyoncé's endless quest to break barriers, do the unexpected, and stay true to herself. Listen to this with an open heart this Sunday. (We promise that if you play the song "16 Carriages," you'll feel a new well of possibility.)

What We’re Loving

We are all "brave enough to find a way," but sometimes we just need a gentle reminder. This sleek limited edition mug, decorated with an inspiring message from Maria, does just that. Pour your morning cup, sit back, and let this message fuel your day.

Our Sunday Dinner Recipe

Wedding Shower Chicken Pasta Salad

 1 lb. bow tie pasta, cooked according to package directions
12.5 oz. can chunk chicken breast
10.5 oz. can mandarin oranges, drained
8 oz. can pineapple tidbits, drained
8 oz. can sliced water chestnuts, drained
2 celery sticks, diced
1 bunch green onion, diced
½ cup chopped cashews
½ cup dried cranberries
16 oz. bottle Hidden Valley Coleslaw Dressing
1 cup mayonnaise
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. ground pepper

In a large bowl, add cooked pasta, chicken, mandarin oranges, pineapple, water chestnuts, celery, green onion, cashews and cranberries. In a medium bowl, add coleslaw dressing, mayonnaise, salt and pepper. Whisk to combine and pour over the salad. Toss to combine.

Refrigerate until serving. 

Yields 8 servings.