READ
If you’re of a fan of the classic film The Princess Bride, this book is for you. Cary Elwes is known for his iconic turn as Westley, the film’s hero, and is delightful as the author of this behind-the-scenes look at the making of the beloved cult classic. Readers get more than just Elwes’ perspective; As You Wish: Inconceivable Tales from the Making of The Princess Bride includes interviews with other actors (including Billy Crystal, Fred Savage, Robin Wright and more) and director Rob Reiner. The book is chock-full of funny, sweet and entertaining anecdotes and memories. Available at Excelsior Bay Books. —Raela Schoenherr
Raela Schoenherr is a fictions acquisitions editor at a Minnesota publishing company and enjoys reading whenever possible.
DRINK
Zinfandel is often overlooked in favor of cabernet, but it’s a wonderful big, bold and full-bodied red wine, and a grape grown exclusively in California. When looking for a pairing for Thanksgiving dinner, you can’t go wrong with zin—it works well with everything on the table, from the turkey and ham to the sweet potatoes and cranberries. Dry Creek Vineyards makes a wonderful Sonoma County example of zinfandel. Fruity, spicy, juicy, bold and not overpowered by its American oak aging, it is a well-balanced red. $19.99. Available at Wayzata Wine and Spirits. —Kevin Castellano
Kevin Castellano is the general manager of Wayzata Wine and Spirits and a respected lake-area wine and liquor expert.
LISTEN
This month I’m taking a look at a brand new release, The King of Whys, the ninth LP of Mike Kinsella (who curiously performs as Owen, which is his wife’s surname). Though the Illinois-based singer-songwriter is now regarded as the godfather of “emo” (a genre that blends punk and math-rock that grew to indie prominence in the mid-to-late 1990s) for his work as the frontman of American Football, Kinsella has had a successful solo career. This album is truly Owen—complex acoustic guitars, stuttering drums, intensely personal lyrics and dreamy production. Highlights: “Lost,” “The Desperate Act,” “Settled Down.” For fans of: Elliott Smith, American Football, Iron and Wine. The album is available online and at local book and music stores. —Tyler Phelps
Tyler Phelps is a local recording engineer and music producer. Follow him on Instagram.
