Hi everyone! My name is Milena Bittmar and I’m the newest member of The Quack Magazine, so I thought I would just introduce myself briefly! I am a student at Edge Hill University, in my second year, studying English Literature. I’m also from Manchester!
I picked English as I have a passion for writing (that’s why I’m here!) and reading. I like writing short stories, poetry and recently started writing articles and reviews. While I was choosing what subject I wanted to do at university, I picked English as I always wanted to become a journalist – I probably watched Gilmore girls one too many times! Now, currently being in second year, I have fallen in love with the idea of working for a publishing company, as an editor.
When it comes to reading, my favourite genres are definitely contemporary and literary fiction, as well as modern classics and poetry.
People have always described me as both feisty or loud and hyper! I’m also quite confrontational, which gets me into trouble a lot, and many of my friends have said that I am the ‘mother’ of the group, which makes sense – I have always said I feel like I’m just a grandma!
When I’m not doing university work, I’m usually listening to Lana Del Rey (another obsession I have!), reading, or writing things. I love being around people, and going on long walks. I also love dancing, and have done ballroom and latin for quite a while, as well as modern morris.
Recently, I have also started an Instagram page devoted to just books, writing reviews, posting hauls and anything else literary, and I’m loving the freedom to have my own platform and post whatever I like!
Quick questions and answers:
Favourite movie?
Dirty Dancing.
Favourite food?
Lasagna (ask my friends, I can make a sexy lasagna) and pierogis.
Favourite book?
Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte.
Favourite song?
Anything by Harry Styles, Fletcher or Lana Del Rey.
I’m looking forward to writing pieces for The Quack, and I hope you like them!
Hey guys, I thought as we’re still in lockdown for the foreseeable future, I thought I’d recommend some books based off hit Netflix shows. All of these books and these shows are some of my favourites, so I hope that you will find some new books to read or even some new Netflix recommendations if you haven’t seen them already!
OUAT:
The first book I will recommend is based on the hit show Once Upon a Time. I loved OUAT when it first came out, and when I realised that the whole series was on Netflix is was happy to re-binge, I haven’t fully got through it all yet but I’m getting there aha! Last summer, I read Meagan Spooner’s Sherwood, which is a retelling of the classic tale of ‘Robin Hood’. The book places Maid Marian as the mysterious Robin Hood after her fiancé Robin of Locksley is killed. It reminded me a lot of the funky, new retellings of the old fairy tales that OUAT is based on. The book is such a good read, and I loved the historical romance/adventure parts of it, and how Marian manages to evade the villainous Guy of Gisborne. A total girl power read.
Bridgerton:
Right, by now, I’m sure everyone has seen (or at least heard of) Bridgerton on Netflix. If you liked it as much as I did, I would fully recommend the ‘original’ Regency books, such as Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice or Persuasion. If you’re feeling even more in the Bridgerton mood (aka, more swoon-worthy rakes and dukes because, erm, come on), I’d also recommend contemporary historical romance fiction, such as the Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon or even the Bridgerton series itself, by Julia Quinn. It’s fully indulgent, romance heavy, dreamy-duke-filled content.
The Witcher:
It’s been over a year ago now since Henry Cavill (best known for playing the character Superman in the 2013 film ‘Man of Steel’) played Geralt of Rivia in the Netflix show ‘The Witcher’. Filming has commenced for a second season, and I’m really looking forward to it! It’s such a good fantasy show, with loveable characters, plenty of action and lots of medieval worldbuilding. It has plenty of Lord of the Rings vibes too, so if you’re into that, it’ll probably be something you like! If you’ve watched The Witcher, I totally recommend the book that the first season was based on, Andrzej Sapkowski’s The Witcher: The Last Wish.
BBC’s Dracula:
The last two books that I am going to recommend are linked with the BBC’s ‘Dracula’ adaptation, also available on Netflix. I of courses have to suggest Bram Stoker’s original text Dracula which the BBC adaptation is based on, the classic Gothic novel that really brought vampire fiction into the mainstream. Since being accepted into the ‘classic literature’ canon, there have been plenty of book adaptations of Stoker’s original tale. One that I read last year, and was so enthralled by, was a book called The Deathless Girls. The Deathless Girls, by Kiran Millwood Hargrave, has been labelled as a ‘YA Gothic feminist romance.’ It tells the story of one girl who later becomes a bride of Dracula, along with her sister. Lillai (known as Lil) is a Romani teenager, who along with her twin sister Kisaiya (Kizzy), are enslaved and forced to serve the local count’s household. There she meets Mira, a girl she falls in love with. The ‘untold story’ of two of Dracula’s wives is such an interesting read filled with young, forbidden love and it kept me hooked.
Anyway, I hope that you found my list of recommendations for books informative (and maybe even helped you find more new shows if you haven’t heard of them!) I enjoyed all of them, and I hope you do too!
Hi everyone, my name is Emma. I’m new to writing for The Quack, so I thought that I would let you all know a bit more about me! I’m in my second year at Edge Hill, and I study English, which is a combination of literature and language. I love my degree, and I wanted to get more practical experience writing for a magazine so here I am!
I have had some practice with writing, but more creative writing focused. I entered some competitions in Sixth Form over year 12 and 13 for poetry and short story writing, and I have had some of my poetry published in ‘Young Writers’ anthologies. I wanted to do English as a joint honours degree because I love reading and studying English language itself. I started my degree wanting to teach English, but now I’m more undecided, but that’s the fun of discovering the subject more! I have way too many books (like I literally can’t fit them all on my bookshelves whoops) and my favourite genres are YA, historical romance and fantasy, as well as the ‘classics’ that I read for the literature part of my degree. When I’m not reading, I love to play video games on my Nintendo Switch, watch Netflix and Disney+ and eat copious amounts of pasta and chocolate (but not at the same time, ew.)
Little bit of a Q&A to get to know me better:
What do you love the most about your degree?
I love the flexibility of it, in my first year I did a 50/50 split of English Literature and Language, and this year I’m doing two language modules and four literature ones. I also am so passionate about literature, and I find looking at theoretical perspectives to ‘read’ texts through super interesting. The language part is also interesting in a completely different way, and I’ve discovered a big interest in looking at the history of the English language.
Have you done any practical experience regarding English?
Yes, I run an Instagram account called ‘thatenglishstudent’ where I love to discuss the reading that I’m doing, the work that I’m doing at uni and helping younger people at A-Level and GCSE with their English work by offering tips and advice. I’ve also worked in a Primary School with Year 4 pupils, helping them with spelling and I’ve also taught a small English lesson which I absolutely loved.
Favourite book?
I have a couple, my favourite classic is Pride and Prejudice (bit basic, I know), my favourite ‘modern classic’ is The Handmaid’s Tale and my favourite fantasy series is the A Court of Thornes and Roses series!
Favourite film?
I have a couple because I have a weird variety of interests, but I’ll have to say Avengers Assemble (2012) because of the comic book nostalgia, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix and Mamma Mia. What an odd combo aha!
I can’t wait to start writing for The Quack, and I hope that you enjoy my articles that will be coming soon!
Although the global pandemic has halted the dating scene, those of you who are lucky enough to live with your valentines, gal-friends or even alone can still participate in these cute activities this year. Remember, Valentines Day isn’t exclusively for couples!
In a Long-Distance Relationship?
If you’re struggling how to celebrate Valentines Day this year away from your significant other because of the pandemic, there are still things that you can do to make Valentines Day special.
Send Flowers.
Personally, I think flowers are one of the best gifts you can receive. Not only are they heartfelt, they look (and smell) amazing! There are loads of online delivery services that you can use, but my personal favourite is Bloom & Wild. If you’re a student you can get discount, and if you’re subscribed to their email, they’re always sending out offers and codes.
Netflix Party.
If you usually take a more laid-back approach to Valentines Day, and spend it curled up on the sofa watching movies, then Netflix Party is a great idea. All you need to do is install the add-on, and then you can connect to other Netflix users using a code – enabling you to watch a film alongside your significant other!
Single? No Problem.
Buy yourself a gift.
Self- love is so important, not just on Valentines Day but everyday of the year! Why not treat yourself to those shoes you’ve been eyeing for a while, or even sending yourself a bunch of flowers in the post! Maybe even treat yourself to a takeaway as a treat.
Have a Movie-Marathon.
Valentines Day this year just so happens to land on a Sunday, so why not write the day off and have a movie day chilled up in bed? It doesn’t even need to be a Rom-Com, just anything that has been on your to-watch list that you haven’t managed to get around to watching because of your busy schedule.
Self-Care Day
There’s nothing better than having a day where all you do is eat good food, pop in your favourite hair and face mask, and watch TV. Use this day as a way to show yourself a bit of love!
Galentines
You can’t beat a valentines day spent with your best mates. Whether you watch a couple of sad films, bake some yummy treats, or have a couple of drinks in the evening, it’s still great to spend time with the people you love.*
*Remember to abide to the lockdown regulations and only participate in the mentioned activities with your own household. Whilst we all want to see our friends, it’s more important than ever to make sure we keep each other safe!
Hi everyone. I’m Emilia McRobie. I have decided to start writing for the Quack so I thought I would introduce myself!
I am from Newcastle… yes, a Geordie! And living on campus to study Education and English as a first year student, which means I study Education, English Literature and English Language. I love all three aspects to my degree. Education is a very important thing to me and I feel like it is often over looked in its importance but we wouldn’t be where we are today without it! As for the English aspect of my degree, I love language – I love to understand the structure of a book, the impact of a sentence structure and how a word can be categorised as so many things depending on its surroundings. The literature side is interesting as I love to read – to look at books from different view points and to see often the use of symbolisation in many novels are topics that can be thoroughly discussed.
As for me, I’m talkative, sarcastic and known for not being able to hide any of my opinions… my face says it all, often getting me into trouble! I also love to take new adventures… hence why I am beginning my writing journey. I have never been one for writing; I much prefer to read other people’s work but recently I have become a lot more opinionated and I needed a place for that so here I am. When I’m not doing uni work, I am usually reading, listening to music or binging the latest series. I also love to visit friends and go for walks (especially with my dogs at home). I also have just started a new business, with fellow newbie Jade Ball, called titsandbits_x (you’ll find us on instagram and facebook) where we design and make custom totes, canvases and prints.
A few quick questions…
Any nicknames?
When I was younger I was always called Meals. There are only a special few who call me this now.
Favourite takeaway?
I have to say a greasy donner kebab will always have my heart but I also love Italians! Pizza or Pasta… what’s not to love?
Favourite thing you ever read?
My favourite thing I ever read was something I also studied… An Inspector Calls. The character Inspector Goole is one of my favourite ever written characters and highlights the importance of community.
Favourite film?
Honestly, I couldn’t pick but I love a romance or an action film!
With the third national lockdown in place, its hard to stay motivated and maintain a healthy mindset. If you’re like me, and have spent the majority of lockdown binge- watching Netflix series (as you should!) and eating crisps, then you might be looking to add a little bit of routine back into your life. Not only is exercise physically beneficial, it also contributes to good mental health because of endorphins (the things that make you feel good) that are released! Below is a list of things that I have tried and tested, and take up no more than 30 minutes of your day!
It might seem a little simple, but they say that simplest things are often the most effective! I find that taking 30 minutes out of the day to get out into the fresh air always makes me feel better. Walking is a low-effort but high-reward activity, meaning that you will still get results whilst not breaking a sweat. Furthermore, walking has been proven to aid in mental wellness as it reduces stress, anxiety and fatigue, and improves mood and sleep quality. Perfect!
Who says working out has to be expensive? Although I used to prefer working out in a gym compared to my own home, during lockdown home workout videos have really grown on me. If you’re like me and your Tiktok is full of people trying to do the 2 week Chloe Ting workout videos, then I really encourage you to give them a try. Recently I have been loving Rachel Gulotta’s workouts as they are really brief, but build a sweat. I would recommend investing in a yoga mat of some sort for comfort if you try this, I got mine on Amazon for around £20.
Couch to 5K
At the beginning of 2020, one of my fitness goals was to run 5k without stopping. During the first lockdown, I thought it was the perfect time to try and aim towards my goal as I had loads of spare time and it gave me a bit of stress-relief from looming deadlines. The Couch to 5K app is great as it runs over the course of 9 weeks, with 3 runs per week that build up intensity as you progress in the programme. You also get to choose your fitness coach, and they guide you through each run, setting new targets and giving you words of encouragement. Honestly, whats better than having Sarah Millican telling you that you’re a superstar each run?
Remember, there is no pressure to be perfect! It is important to listen to your body and do what feels right for you, and not compare your productivity to others. Everyone is doing their best, and getting through this lockdown differently!
If you try any of these, make sure to tag us in your Insta stories using @thequackmagazine!
Hello everyone! My name is Jade, I have only recently started writing for The Quack so I thought I would tell you a little bit about myself.
I am a first-year creative writing student. I have been writing now for the last four years. I started as a poet; I then became a performance poet. Over the last few years, I have performed at event across the country including the UNIslam youth showcase three years in a row, Young Ambassadors and many workshops. In July 2019, I started helping out at a local arts charity where I had been going to workshops and events. Together, we wrote a bid to the Arts council and Young Inspired for some money to put together the first young laureate in my city which went ahead in February 2020… Just before everything shut down the first time!
Since coming to Edge Hill, I have started writing fiction and working with Edge Hill University Press. I am also very interested in reading. I have over 100 books and I spend most of my free time reading. During the third lockdown, I started to teach myself how to crochet and started a business. My business partner and I started making and selling canvases, bags, bookmarks and prints to promote female empowerment, feminism and body positivity.
I love all things English and I find words really fascinating so I am super excited to write for The Quack!
Q&A:
Do you have any nicknames?
I actually have quite a few… my friends and family call me Jadey-Lou, Loullabella but mostly people just call me Bells.
Favourite book?
It’s so hard to just pick one! At the moment I am really enjoying the Renegades series by Marissa Meyer.
Favourite film?
Any soppy romance or hardcore fantasy… there is really no in between.
My skin was really testing me at the start of the lockdown, specifically on my cheeks and chin – thank you ‘maskne.’ After a few months of trial and error, I have found an affordable and effective skincare routine which has made my skin the happiest it’s been in months. I’ve put together a list of my favourite skincare picks which have helped keep my skin clear and acne free. I buy the below products from Beauty Bay, ASOS and Boots. – Meg x
The Ordinary Squalene Cleanser 50ml
£5.50
Product image and price – BeautyBay
There are lots of cleansers out there, a personal favourite of mine is The Ordinary Squalene cleanser. When rubbed between palms it changes from a balm texture into an oil formula, to cleanse the skin without stripping moisture. The formula is gentle enough for everyday use and for £5.50 a tube it’s definitely cheap and cheerful. I’ve found it takes my makeup off with little effort and it doesn’t leave my skin feeling dried out like other cleansers I’ve used. Overall, I would rate this cleanser 8/10, it’s simple but definitely does the job.
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 30ml
£5.75
Product image, ingredients and price – Beauty Bay
I love this serum, it’s super hydrating and helps to absorb moisturise into the skin. I apply it before moisturiser and it leaves my skin feeling soft and smooth. The serum contains three types of hyaluronic acid and Vitamin B5 to improve moisture retention, lipid barrier strength and skin hydration. I would give this 9/10 as its definitely a staple in my skincare routine.
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo (+) 40ml
£16.99
Product image, ingredients and price – Boots
This moisturiser is slightly pricier but has quickly become my holy grail, I buy it from Boots to get student discount. I had seen really good reviews but was sceptical whether it would work well for me. Its formulated for acne and oily prone skin and helps to minimise the appearance of blackheads, dark marks, and spots. The product ingredients include Niacinamide, Salicylic acid and Zinc and it is dermatologically tested for sensitive skin. I have seen a massive improvement in the texture and appearance of my skin since using this moisturiser, it’s a light formula and I’ve found it works well under makeup as a primer. It pairs nicely with the Ordinary cleanser and I’m currently on my third tube of the stuff! I’ll give this one 10/10 – I just wish it lasted longer!
The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution 30ml
£6.25
Photo, description and price – Beauty Bay
I can’t lie this one stings but it definitely has its benefits. The product acts as a chemical exfoliant for the top layer of the skin, helping to improve the appearance of marks and spots for a brighter complexion. I wouldn’t recommend using this more than once a week so you’re not stripping your skin, the product directions recommend applying for no longer than 10 minutes. When applying the serum less is definitely more, and the product isn’t recommend for sensitive skin. After a few weeks of use, I saw a reduction in the appearance of old spot scars and my skin texture was significantly smoother. I’ll give this one 7/10 – because it stings and looks like you’re smearing blood on your face, but I appreciate the results.
The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Masque (50ml)
£9.75
Product image and price – Beauty Bay
At this point, you are probably thinking she’s an Ordinary fanatic and you’d probably be right. This is such a nice face mask, and my skin looks really refreshed and brightened after use. Once a week, I alternate between using this or The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution. I would give this one 8-10 because you only get about 6-7 face masks out of a tube.
The Inkey List Salicylic Acid Cleanser150ml
£10.99
Product image, description and price – Boots
This one is a newbie but so far so good. I was intrigued by the salicylic acid and the fact my TikTok is plastered with this brand. Salicylic acid helps to clean and exfoliate the skin, unclogging pores and reducing the production of blackheads and spots. The product is a foaming cleanser and although it’s more drying than my Ordinary face wash, it leaves my face feeling nice and clean. I haven’t used the product long enough to see any definite changes, but it seems to work well and suit my skin. The product packaging is also very cute and recommends different product combinations based on your skin type. I would give this one 7/10, largely because I haven’t used it long enough to have a concrete opinion.
The UK has been hit with another national lockdown and students up and down the country are facing another term of online teaching from the isolation of their homes. Whilst the lockdown is necessary, your mental health is equally as important, and so The Quack has compiled a few ways to make sure you look after yourselves during these difficult upcoming weeks. Putting aside time for yourself, away from the endless reading and researching/Microsoft team meetings, is a must.
Stay positive, keep smashing your work and hopefully we’ll soon find ourselves in a much more positive situation!
Plan out your week ahead.
Definitely the most helpful tip for staying on top of your workload is planning out your week ahead of time. This includes classes, assignments that are due, books that need to be read and research that needs to be conducted. Mapping it out day by day serves as a reminder for what needs to completed (so there is no falling behind), and it also acts as a motivator. It’s helpful to have your to-do list itemised out in front of you, as you can check tasks off and see how productive you have been throughout the day.
Reduce screen time.
Reducing screen time allows you to shut off from the outside world and all of its troubles for just a little bit of time each day. Social media and the news are known causes of anxiety and so having an hour in which you put your phone away and focus on yourself is highly beneficial for your mental health. Bake, read, have a bath, practise a new hobby, do anything that allows you to relieve some stress. Online learning also means increased screen time and so it gives our eyes a much needed break.
Get some fresh air.
Boris is still allowing us to go for daily walks, so take advantage of this freedom! Put your earphones in (grab the dog if you have one) and set off. Maybe try to discover a new part of your hometown that you haven’t ever been to before, or take pictures along the way, anything as long as it gets you moving outside!
Reward yourself.
Whilst this is quite obvious, it is often overlooked when you’re feeling rushed or stressed. You’ve managed to read the book you’ve been avoiding for ages? Treat yourself to some chocolate. You’ve written two pages of your assignment? Watch an episode of your favourite programme. Basically, remember to congratulate yourself for the progress you have made. Rewards help with motivation and they stop you from becoming burnt out – it’s also a perfect excuse to do a bit of online shopping 😉
Remember that you are not alone.
Lockdowns in general can be lonely and overwhelming. Throw assignments and classes into the mix and you are suddenly under even more stress. During times like these, it’s important to reach out to your friends and family and get the support that you need. If you happen to live alone, arrange face to face calls with your loved ones, you could even suggest virtual quiz and games nights as something to look forward to. The Quack’s DM’s are always open to those who need a chat (you can find us at @thequackmagazine on Instagram) and below are a list of organisations that are there to help ❤
Helpline UK (for under 35s) – 08000684141
Anxiety UK – 08444775774
Samaritans (available 24/7) – 116123
Mind (9am-6pm) – 03001233393
Men’s Advice Line (Male victims of domestic violence) – 08088010327
National Centre for Domestic Violence – 08009702070
Cruse Bereavement UK – 08008081677
Look after yourselves and we hope to see you all returned to campus safe and happy soon!
Between the dimly lit log fires, cute fairy lights and steaming hot chocolates, there is no room for argument that there is nothing quite like a Christmastime date! Here is a list of 10 ideas for you and your significant other to try out over the festive period, whether you want to keep out of the cold, or embrace it.
Explore Your Area Date Ideas
Christmas tree farm (or garden centres): The perfect idea for if you haven’t gotten the tree yet, or if you need some decoration inspiration! Also a great place to get yourself and your partner into the Christmas spirit, and for some cute Instagram photos!
Drive in cinema: Fancy watching a movie but want to get out for a bit? 2020 saw rise to the drive-in cinema, and whilst you might want to make the heating in your car works, this is a traditionally romantic idea worth giving a go.
Christmas markets: The holidays are the perfect time to support local businesses, plus the set-up stalls at Christmas time are always a cute, photo-worthy experience! Please bear in mind the COVID restrictions in your local area, though!
Go on a festive night-time walk: Okay, so whilst not the most creative of ideas, sometimes just taking an hour or so outside, getting to know your significant others can do the world of wonders. From grabbing a hot drink, to seeing how others decorate their houses, the holiday season is all about making the most of the little things. Do some research into where in your local area has a Winter Wonderland. Check out the Magical Woodland in Delamere Forrest, Cheshire…
Christmas present shopping: Be it shopping for mutual friends, family or each other, this is a nice practical way to spend time together. See our ‘Affordable Gift Ideas’ post for some ideas!
Stay Cosy at HomeIdeas
Movie night: Christmas is the perfect excuse to stay all cosied up at home and catch up on those shows you started months ago. But, given the festivities, perhaps postpone them a little longer, grab your significant other and settle down for a cosy Christmas themed Netflix marathon.
Bake: The fastest way to anyone’s heart is their stomach, so use the Christmas period to home in on those baking skills and get to work on all the gingerbread men, brownies, and minced pies you and your partner can handle!
Christmas Cocktails/Mulled wine evening: The Christmas period wouldn’t be the same without a little tipple. The internet has a plethora of delicious looking drinks to try, and you can always make them look cute for a photo!
Make DIY ornaments: Sure, store-bought Christmas ornaments look pretty, but why not add that little personal touch to the tree this year and perhaps develop a hobby along the way?
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