Bright Spots

Bright Spots

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Moving is a big to-do
On asking friends for help. Plus recs for Andrea Gibson's poems, the tooth fairy, and Tracy Kidder on the social safety net.
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Chris Duffy
3
Some QR codes that I've seen recently
As soon as the QR code was invented, technology had peaked and we started sliding downhill. Plus recs for Hanif Abdurraqib on despair, Liz Alterman, and…
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Chris Duffy
What the Fourth of July means
Or, at the very least, an attempt to figure out what it might possibly mean. Plus recs for Chris Colin on customer service, Columbus Public Library…
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Chris Duffy
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June 2025

The Waterbeds of Ohio
Two poets and a comedian in America's 15th most populous city. Plus recs for Zach Sherwin's crossword, Josh Gondelman's new special, and Isabel Castro's…
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Chris Duffy
2
Koko the Lock Lady is disgusted by my keys
She has high standards and I do not meet them! Plus recs for Mierle Laderman Ukeles and sanitation, Jim Tews and pictures, and Roxane Gay and choice.
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Chris Duffy
2
Some Ways to Help L.A. That Don't Involve Deploying the Military
Plus recs for Dan Sinker on caring, Ben Palmer trolling, and Margaret Sullivan on the power of protest.
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Chris Duffy
18 Things I've Learned in 18 Months of Parenting
The biggest one is that I'm going to look back on this list and realize I knew nothing. Plus recs for Jordan Bolton's illustrated stories, Ben Palmer's…
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Chris Duffy
7

May 2025

The Mystery of the Slippery Australian
Taking a redeye flight leads to a mystery I'll ponder for the rest of my days. Plus recs for Ariel Waldman's films, Mark Silcox's standup, and Maggie…
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Chris Duffy
7
Bright Spots takes over a Brooklyn classroom
What happens when the readers of a newsletter take matters into their own hands? Plus recs for Greta Morgan's debut book, Shaina Feinberg meeting Joan…
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Chris Duffy
4
The Secret to Life is Maximizing Bits
A phone call with Alex Dobrenko reveals the endless potential for goofs. Plus recs for Gretchen Rubin's life lessons, Wyatt Cenac's subway take, and…
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Chris Duffy
17
Bread-based Innovations in South Korea
I have seen the future of pastry and baked goods and it's delicious beyond your wildest dreams. Plus recs for Courtney Martin on memory care, memes for…
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Chris Duffy
5
The Unofficial Street Signs of Silver Lake, Los Angeles
It's a town full of artists and telephone poles are their muse. Plus recs for Phillip Atiba Solomon on moonshots, Amy Poehler talking with Quinta…
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Chris Duffy
5
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