Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult

This novel deals with a school shooting committed by a 17 year old boy who suffered years of bullying and physical and verbal abuse by classmates. Picoult delves into various characters' pasts, and explores their reactions to the shooting. The psychological insight in this book is really fascinating and relevant. She explores that desire to fit in that just about any young person has, and what that desire can lead a person to do.

The Great Debaters

This 2007 film is directed by and stars Denzel Washington. It is based on a true story of a debate coach/team at Wiley College in the 1930s. During this time Jim Crow laws were common and lynching was a fear for African Americans. Though there are a couple things that are not historically accurate in the film, it shows how the coach and team persevered and fought for equality. It is a very moving film.

Same Kind of Different As Me by Ron Hall & Denver Moore

This is the true story about an unlikely friendship that is formed between a homeless man and a wealthy international art dealer. It is fascinating to read each man's life story and see how God brought these men together and how they were able to support each other and learn from each other. It also made me think more about the homeless and about prejudices we all have. The book is so good!

From the description on the back of the book, "A dangerous homeless drifter who grew up picking cotton in virtual slavery. An upscale art dealer accustomed to the world of Armani and Chanel. A gutsy woman with a stubborn dream. A story so incredible no novelist would dare dream it."

Pineapple Dole Whip

Dole Whip is a soft serve frozen dessert available at select locations. The Pineapple flavor can only be found in a few locations in the world (I've been told anyway). You can get a Pineapple Dole Whip at Adventureland in the Magic Kingdom at Disney World and at the Disney Polynesian Resort. Pineapple Dole Whips are so tasty! And it is also really tasty mixed with some coconut rum!