Kayla Vokolek

With the FBI classifying trans people and their allies as part of a dangerous ideology, it’s more important than ever to financially uplift trans people and hear their stories, fiction or nonfiction. No one story can ever represent an entire group, but these all speak to the undeniable fact that trans people just want to be accepted and loved like everyone else.

It’s officially almost autumn, that means it’s Gilmore Girls season. Although over 300 books are mentioned on the show, I’m capping the list at 50 because there are just too many! Plus, I’m not giving sales to Ayn Rand.

Beyond the obvious of avoiding gluten, celiac made me think more about what I put in my body and what helps my digestive system. But also, it’s important to enjoy what you’re eating without worrying about nutrition all the time!

My recommended spots across LA County. However, please use your own discretion when visiting these places, especially non-dedicated spots—I am not responsible for any glutening that may occur. No affiliate links included on here. But if this helped you, please consider dropping a dollar or two to my Venmo so I can continue finding safe, yummy places!

Contrary to presidential belief, we’re not living in hell over here in the Beaver State, and in fact Portland boasts an impressive literary tradition and community. Most authors live in Portland proper, but some in the suburbs or other cities.

Cohesive themes and strong writing.

different kinds of nonfiction are featured: memoir, personal essays, research-based arguments, and interview-sourced perspectives

Compared to the Big Five publishing houses, indie presses take more chances on debut authors, support marginalized authors at higher rates, and welcome stories that are experimental and less likely to be commercially successful. Supporting indie presses helps publishing continue to make these kinds of books possible.

August is Women in Translation Month! These all provide great writing and interesting perspectives, cultural and otherwise. Most links support indie bookstores! (I know Africa is underrepresented, but many of the authors I do know, like Oyinkan Braithwaite, write in English).

everywhere you can find good food in Portland, even if you have celiac disease! or even if you don’t— good food is good food! if this helped you, consider dropping a dollar or two to my venmo @Kayla-Vokolek so that I can keep funding new discoveries!