Better Read tries each month to point you at something related to Spider-Man
comics that we hope you might enjoy, or warn you about something you probably
should stay away from. This month, we're really pushing the envelope in both
directions. Firstly, we're really stretching the comics connection, and
secondly, we're looking to help you in something more than just your search for
good entertainment.
This month's recommendation is actually the 2004 RAINN calender. It features
fourteen months of stunning artwork depicting Tori Amos. In case you didn't
know, Tori Amos is not only an extraordinarily talented
singer/songwriter/musician, but a strong supporter of RAINN - the U.S. based
Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network.
The connection by which I'm justifying selecting the calendar is that July's art
is an achingly beautiful watercolor/mixed-media of Tori by David Mack, who I
first encountered via his work in Daredevil. Vibrant, moving, evocative. Sure,
July is a way off, but there's plenty of other great art to enjoy before
then.
Hence, the three recommendations from this month:
- Buy yourself a delicious RAINN fund-raising calendar. Order online at
www.rainn.org. International orders are
accepted, and mine was well-wrapped and shipped promptly.
- If you enjoy real music, not just record-company manufactured hype, then go
treat yourself a Tori Amos album. A good one to start with is
Little
Earthquakes. Amazon offers sample clips.
- Don't turn away from abuse. If you, our somebody you know is in an abusive
relationship, then do something now. We don't all have Peter Parker's sense of
responsibility, but we can all make a difference.
You can call RAINN in the U.S. on 1-800-656-HOPE, or reach them online at
www.rainn.org. In other countries, look in
your phone book, there are always people who will help.
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