Sunday Paper Recommends—Week of March 9, 2025

This week at The Sunday Paper, we're sharing a new book, a film, and a podcast that we believe will add inspiration to your days. We hope these suggestions open your heart and mind and encourage you to come together for meaningful conversations.

What We’re Reading

This may surprise you—but there were no black Rockettes on the kick line at Radio City Music Hall until 1987! And dancer Jennifer Jones was the first to cross the color barrier. Becoming Spectacular: The Rhythm of Resilience from the First African American Rockette details her groundbreaking journey as the first Black Rockette and just what it took to get there. Starting with her childhood as the daughter of an interracial couple in New Jersey and culminating in integrating the longstanding historic white institution of the Rockettes, Jones shares her inspirational story of overcoming racism and paving the way for a new generation of dancers.

What We’re Watching

The Electric State, the new science fiction film directed by Anthony and Joe Russo premieres on Netflix on March 14, 2025. An adaptation of Simon Stålenhag's popular graphic novel, The Electric State follows the journey of heroine Michelle, an orphaned teenager who develops an unlikely friendship with a robot named Cosmo as they embark on a quest to find her missing brother. This visually dazzling film features strong performances by Millie Bobby Brown, Ke Huy Quan, and Maria’s son-in-law Chris Pratt.

Also, Celebrity Makeup Artist and Chief Creative Officer of Jones Road Beauty, Bobbi Brown, sits down with the legendary women’s rights leader Gloria Steinem to discuss female empowerment and the future of the equality movement. A 90-year-old Steinhem reflects back on her legacy, the power of community, and what’s next.

What We’re Listening To

If you’re looking for a light-hearted listen, check out Amy Poehler’s brand new podcast Good Hang launching sometime this March on Spotify. Poehler describes it as “good dumb fun” with her friends and fellow comedians about what makes them laugh. Expect to hear relaxed and unserious conversations with industry luminaries like Seth Meyers, her ex-husband Will Arnett, and many more.

Sunday Dinner Recipe

BUBBLE BAGEL BITES (Makes six)

1/4 cup vital wheat gluten
1/4 cup water
1 tablespoon tapioca starch
3/4 teaspoon baking powder
3/4 teaspoon white vinegar
3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
1 to 2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning
Tofu cream cheese or store-bought vegan cream cheese such as Kite Hill, for serving

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350°F

In a medium bowl, stir together the vital wheat gluten, water, tapioca starch, baking powder, vinegar, and salt until a shaggy dough forms. The dough will be very wet. Using your hands, knead the dough for 1 to 2 minutes until it becomes smooth.

Break the dough into tablespoon sized pieces and roll them into balls roughly 1 inch in diameter.

Pour the everything bagel seasoning into a small bowl and roll the balls in it until covered. Place the bites an inch or two apart on an un-greased sheet pan.

Bake for 10 minutes, then turn each bite over so it can brown a little more on the other side. Continue baking until they are puffed and golden, 13 to 15 minutes total. Serve with tofu cream cheese. They are best enjoyed right from the oven.

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