Nerd Recommendations
People ask me about recommendations. Whether you want to get into coding, try 3D printing, or dive into a great fantasy novel — here are my personal picks to jumpstart your next adventure.
Coding
Looking for a fun way to introduce your kids to coding? Scratch uses a drag-and-drop interface to create animations and games — no prior experience needed. It's a fantastic starting point for budding programmers.
Ready to go deeper? Codecademy offers free courses covering popular languages like Python, JavaScript, and HTML — a solid launchpad if you want to learn how to actually build things.
Tech Hardware
A mini computer perfect for young minds curious about electronics. Program it from a tablet or computer to light up LEDs, detect motion, and create simple games. A great first step into hardware.
A credit-card-sized computer beloved by hobbyists worldwide. Powerful enough for real projects — from learning programming to building robots and home automation setups.
Filament Printers
A user-friendly filament printer popular for good reason. Easy to set up and maintain, it's a great choice for beginners and experienced makers alike.
When it comes to filament, Elegoo offers high-quality options to bring your 3D creations to life. A reliable go-to for everyday printing.
Resin Printers
The Mars series is known for its reliability. Perfect for incredibly detailed resin prints, especially miniatures and fine-tuned creations where precision matters.
Simplify your post-print process. This resin washes off with water instead of harsh chemicals like isopropyl alcohol. Proper disposal is still recommended, but cleanup is much more manageable.
Sci-Fi/Fantasy Novels
Brandon Sanderson's Mistborn is a phenomenal introduction to his Cosmere universe — a thrilling adventure filled with magic, mystery, and unforgettable characters. A great starting point if you've never read Sanderson before.
The first book in what is quickly becoming a modern fantasy classic. A breathtaking world unlike any other — epic in scope, but deeply personal in its storytelling.
A smart, fast-paced science fiction novel filled with mystery, problem-solving, and unforgettable characters. Equal parts suspenseful and heart-warming, it's one of the most accessible and enjoyable sci-fi books of the last decade.
Comics
The critically acclaimed jumping-on point for the Krakoa era of the X-Men. A fresh, bold take on beloved characters. Easily one of the best X-Men stories in years.
Matt Murdock wrestles with the meaning of justice in this gripping run. Zdarsky's Daredevil is widely considered one of the best superhero comics of its era.
Widely considered one of the greatest stories of Superman ever told, this self-contained graphic novel shows the heart of the Man of Steel and why he remains one of the world's most loved heroes. A perfect entry point for new readers.
A quick, easy solo tabletop adventure that requires nothing more than a pencil, paper, and some tokens. Perfect for introducing new players to the world of tabletop gaming without an overwhelming rulebook.
A versatile, affordable console with a fantastic library of games for all ages that includes games from the original Nintendo Switch. From thrilling adventures to heart-pounding races, the Switch 2 has something for everyone — and it's easy to share with the family.
Explore a vast open world full of secrets and breathtaking landscapes. One of the most critically acclaimed games of its generation — and a great first Zelda if you've never played one before.
The epic sequel to Breath of the Wild. More to explore, more to build, and more Hyrule than ever. If you loved the first, this is a must.
It's a classic for a reason. The best party game on the Switch because it's easy to pick up, impossible to put down, and guaranteed to start arguments with everyone in the room.
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