by tristero

Suze Rotolo’s new book A Freewheelin’ Time is a joy on so many levels and in so many ways, it’s hard to know what to focus on. If you don’t know who Suze is, then buy her book. And if you do, then buy her book – I’ll be damned if I’ll tell you.  I’ll just briefly mention one fascinating aspect, in light of modern political/cultural assumptions. Rotolo’s parents were unabashed Communists; Rotolo herself was actively involved from an early age – we’re talking 14 years old – in the civil rights movement. Every page is infused with a deep, humanistic morality and sense of justice, a passion for new and great art, and an intelligent curiosity that is both poetic and direct. This is a not-to-be-missed page turner written by a remarkable woman about a remarkable time and place. 

Also not to be missed is Faith Akin’s great film, The Edge of Heaven, a movie so compelling it will stay with you for a very long time. I couldn’t help thinking, as I left the theater, that Akin’s filmmaking is so far ahead of most contemporary American directors that watching his movie is like encountering a brand new, and overwhelmingly powerful, new medium for expression. Even if you have to travel far and wide to get to a theater smart enough to show it, please don’t skip it.