#5SmartReads - May 9, 2023

A resident of Cleveland, Ohio, Shibani is anxiously awaiting warmer weather so she can plant her summer garden. In the mean time, she's trying to read as many new book releases as she can. Follow her on Instagram to read her book reviews.

Thanks, Obama! The Hilarious Reason Why A Judge Just Blocked Wyoming’s Abortion Ban (Vox) 

I hate this headline because women having to sue to get access to basic healthcare is the opposite of hilarious, but I can appreciate the irony here.

The Forces Behind Anti-Trans Bills Across The U.S. (Axios)

File this under other things that make me absolutely IRATE, there are over 430 bills targeting the LGBT+ community, particularly trans youth.

If you live in a state where this is happening, (1) please reach out to your state legislators in opposition to these bills and (2) please check your voter registration to make sure you're registered to vote these legislators out at the next election. There are no off years in voting.

Why Asia’s Early Heatwave Is So Alarming (Vox)

It feels like summer is a way off in Cleveland, but it's come on suddenly and harshly in other parts of the world. Unfortunately, headlines like these are not going to go away any time soon - climate change is affecting us all, in one way or the other.

My Marriage Was Never The Same After That (The Cut)

This is an excerpt from an upcoming book but an important look at marriage and partnership. If you’re in a relationship, are you with someone who truly supports you? And what does that support look like?

An Attempt To Make Sense Of The Jennifer Lopez Wedding Industrial-Complex Canon (Vulture)

As always, I like to end these with something a little light-hearted. JLo and I share a Birthday (years apart) so I feel like we’re connected. This is my favorite type of article - a deep dive into something slightly frivolous and entirely fun!! If you're a fan of J-Lo, weddings, romcoms or any of the above, you will enjoy this!