The acting in the DVDs "Vera Set 1-5 Collection" and "Vera Set 6" is so superlative you can sit back and watch the same episode over and over again and not be bored.

Kris Kristofferson's 'The Cedar Creek Sessions' not only reminds us of the depth of his abilities but serves notice that he's not done yet.

"Magic In Islam" by Michael Muhammad Knight is a fine rebuttal to those who would tell you Islam is a homogenous monolith.

"Scapegoats: How Islamophobia Helps Our Enemies and Threatens Our Freedoms" by Arsalan Iftikhar is a well written and passionate book defending reason and rationality. But the world is no longer a rational or reasonable place.

Everything about "Children of Earth and Sky" by Guy Gabriel Kay makes it a wonder and a joy to read.

Fanfare Ciocarlia's 'Onwards to Mars' continues to break all stereotypes you might have about a brass band.

If you care about modern art and culture "Massive Pissed Love: Nonfiction 2001 - 2014" by Richard Hell is a must read.

"The Anxiety of Kalix the Werewolf" by Martin Millar is a great book and a fun read for anyone sick and tired of paranormal romance novels.

Marvel Comics has collected the appearances of the new Ms. Marvel - Kamala Khan - into three brilliant volumes: "No Normal", "Generation Why" and "Crushed"

Tinariwen's 'Live in Paris, Oukis N'Asuf' is an album of great music by an exciting band and as good a concert disc as any you'll ever hear.