BOOK JACK

A vivid review of Jacqueline Susann’s Valley of the Dolls, the sensational 1966 novel that explores fame, ambition, addiction, and the emotional cost of success.

Ian Tuason’s concept-driven horror film Halftone follows two podcasters who uncover a curse hidden in a sequence of terrifying audio files. Atmospheric and led by a strong Nina Kiri performance, the movie offers genuine dread even if its inventive premise eventually gives way to more familiar supernatural-horror beats.

Abraham Verghese’s Cutting for Stone is a richly layered literary novel about twin brothers born in Ethiopia, the world of medicine, political upheaval, and the lasting consequences of love, betrayal, and sacrifice.

This campus comedy sets up a relatable dorm-room nightmare and benefits from a promising young cast, but uneven characterization and tonal detours keep it from reaching the emotional insight its premise deserves.