Guest collaborators, led by John Quigley, our music coach, have created the 2020 JANZ Christmas Music List. Love it or hate it, this mix of Bubble and Bing always hits the airwaves around now.

John le Carré (or David John Moore Cornwell) was a top British author of espionage novels. He passed away on 12 December 2020 at the age of 89 from pneumonia, and in his memory, we’ve collated some of his top novels for you to read, if you haven’t already.

2020 was a big year for the Black Lives Matter movement — a year of tragedy, but also a year of global recognition and momentum. In June, a number of reading lists started circulating to educate those who were new to the movement, or just interested in learning more about black civil rights. The below list is just a small part of the texts available for those interested.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year — the time when every streaming service releases what feels like an endless list of holiday films that may or may not be the worst films you’ve ever seen. This year, we’re taking the pain out of your holiday viewing and telling you which ones are actually a gift.

Getty Museum continues its inspiring digital series that you can access while you’re right here in New Zealand. Take a look at their latest offerings:

In Tessa Peach’s tiny shop, you’ll find everything from drill bits and garden spades, to preserved fruits, frying pans, shoes and shoe horns.

Join the Fellowship of Funders and donate to help buy J.R.R Tolkein’s home in Oxford.

The latest inspiration from Getty Museum that you can explore right here in New Zealand.

Over half of all prisoners in New Zealand are Maori - how did it come to this? And what can be done about it?

Stothard’s history of the hunting down of the murderers by Antony and Octavian, Caesar’s great-nephew and heir, who are first accomplices then bitter rivals as they each seek the throne, is a riveting, fast-paced thriller that makes one think of the brutal settling of scores at the end of The Godfather.

Watch the full conversation with leading prison reformist, Tā Kim Workman.

Topics covered include the history of the New Zealand prison system, why so many Māori are incarcerated, and what can be done about it.

If you’re on the lookout for some great films to add to your watchlist, here’s a selection of 15 great films by women that were recently suggested by The Sunday Times.

Find a range of exhibitions from New Zealand and overseas that you can explore. Some you can explore from your own home, while others will require you to make a trip to the museum.

Introducing Bill Hastings. We’ll hand over to Bill to introduce himself, and how he has managed to find himself with the role of JANZ’s film coach.

If you’re needing a good book to keep your mind occupied, don’t fret, we’ve got plenty. Get your hands on these 10 great books — that should keep you going until next time! If you’ve read a great book you’d like to provide a review for, email lara@janz.nz to find out how you can get your review online and start a bit of an informal book club.

Pilgrims by Matthew Kneale