The Undertow

A Place To Explore: Back Bay Wildlife Refuge

If you are an outdoor adventure-seeker or are looking for a little getaway as the weather warms up, look no further than Virginia Beach’s own backyard. Back Bay Wildlife Refuge’s is the place to get some fun in the sun. Visitors can enjoy approximately eight miles of nature trails, hidden beaches and more. Back Bay offers all sorts of different activities including a seasonal canoe/kayak launch and educational programs. This is the perfect place to disconnect from the world and focus solely on nature. More information can be found on their website: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/Back_Bay/

 

A Movie To Watch: The Last Thing He Wanted 

Netflix’s “The Last Thing He Wanted” is a political thriller that follows the tale of D.C. journalist Elena McMahon (Anne Hathaway), who ends up brokering an illegal arms deal for her father. This coincidentally is the same story she is supposed to cover. Filled with twists and turns, “The Last Thing He Wanted” will keep you on the edge of your seat as you try to put all the pieces of the puzzle together. Be ready to be sucked into the world of the 1980s surrounding the US backing of Nicaraguan rebels. This film features classic stars such as Anne Hathaway, Ben Affleck, and Willem Dafoe. 

 

A Book To Read: I’ll Give You The Sun

            “I’ll Give You The Sun” is a 2014 novel written by Jandy Nelson. It is told from the alternating perspectives of twins Noah and Jude. Nude and Jude are best friends, practically joined at the hip. What happens when Jude gets into the best art school in the country and Noah doesn’t?  Nelson weaves the most heartbreaking tale with themes of family, divorce, relationships, and finding yourself. This is the type of story that stays with you forever. No matter what stage you are at in life, there will always be a message for you. “I’ll Give You The Sun” is the winner of many awards, including the 2015 Printz Award for Excellence in Young Adult Literature. 

By Faith Macwana
fpmacwana@vwu.edu