Drink & Book Pairings
Spring has officially sprung in the Midwest! While the spring equinox brings about sunnier weather and longer days, it also signals the rotation of our seasonal menu at Tala! There’s no better way to celebrate spring than with a refreshing drink in hand and a great book by your side. Whether you’re basking in the sunshine or cozy in one of our cafes, the right combination of flavors and stories can make any moment feel a little brighter. This season, we’re pairing our seasonal drinks with books—ranging from literary classics to stories that feel like they should be classics—bringing the same warmth, excitement, and fresh perspective. So grab a pen and get ready to add some titles to your TBR list!
Main Squeeze + The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
The Main Squeeze, with its bright blend of lemonade, sparkling water, and strawberry basil syrup, is reminiscent of the carefree, sun-filled days of camp—refreshing, lively, and full of unexpected twists. The God of the Woods follows suit, depicting a young girl’s coming-of-age story, with a summer camp backdrop, where she grapples with the mysteries of the woods and the complexities of human relationships. There’s lots to love about this book, from the multi-perspectives, time jumps, plethora of characters to relate to, and unexpected twists! The book, much like the drink, captures a mix of nostalgia, blissful ignorance, and the quiet simplicity of nature.
Ube Latte + Becoming by Michelle Obama
An ube latte, with its vibrant purple hue and exotic appearance, may seem adventurous and unfamiliar at first glance, yet it tastes surprisingly comforting and sweet, much like Michelle Obama’s memoir Becoming. Growing up in Chicago, Michelle may have seemed like an ordinary girl, but, like the ube latte, she was far more complex and multi-dimensional than what people initially perceived. Becoming takes us on her journey from a working-class neighborhood to the White House, showing her growth and resilience in a world that often tried to define her. Michelle’s story reveals the quiet strength, determination, and grace behind her public persona. Both the latte and the memoir are rich in flavor, offering new perspectives on personal transformation and discovery. Becoming is the perfect spring read!
Dirty Horchata + The Body in the Garden by Katharine Schellman
An ube latte, with its vibrant purple hue and exThe Dirty Horchata, with its rich blend of cinnamon, vanilla, and cold brew, offers a flavorful and bold twist on a classic drink, similarly to The Body in the Garden by Katharine Schellman brings a modern twist to the historical mystery genre. Set in 1920s London, the book follows a young woman, Lily, who is drawn into a web of intrigue after discovering a body in a garden. As she delves deeper into the mystery, she uncovers dark secrets surrounding the case. The lush, garden-based mystery captures the essence of spring, with its unfolding secrets and blooming discoveries. Both the drink and the book create an atmosphere that is rich, intriguing, and full of surprises—perfect for a cozy, yet thrilling, pairing.
Black Bear + The Berry Pickers by Amanda Peters
The Black Bear, Highwood’s spring cafe exclusive, pairs beautifully with The Berry Pickers, a novel that immerses you in the wild, rugged landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. This drink, featuring a combination of blackberries, hibiscus, and honey, is a continuation of the book’s deep connection to nature. The book includes multiple perspectives, themes of family drama and dysfunction, aspects of social justice, and a sprinkle of mystery! The novel follows the life of an indigenous family in the 20th century, struggling to survive and preserving their culture amidst changing times. It’s a newer book that reads like a classic! The book and drink both offer moments of sweetness and complexity, inviting you to savor every detail.
Flower Power + Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
Libertyville’s spring cafe exclusive, Flower Power - a latte featuring syrup made with rose water, agave, and elderflower - complements the timeless elegance of Little Women. This literary classic follows the March sisters (Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy) as they grow up during the Civil War era in New England. This pairing is a nod to the beauty of spring and the power of family, friendship, and personal growth. Whether you're revisiting this literary classic or experiencing it for the first time, the Flower Power latte is the perfect companion for heartwarming moments that bloom within each page.
Cherry Blossom + The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
The Cherry Blossom, Winnetka’s spring cafe exclusive, is a latte with a delicious blend of cherry, almond, and vanilla flavors. The name is a nod to a beautiful spring flower, making this drink the perfect pair with The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett. The story follows Mary Lennox as she uncovers the secrets of a hidden garden. Throughout the book, she undergoes a personal journey of growth and renewal, much like the garden itself blooms with care. The subtle sweetness of the latte reflects the soft, yet vibrant atmosphere of spring in the story, capturing the season’s themes of newness and discovery. This delicious drink and riveting book invite you to embrace a refreshing escape into a world where beauty and potential are waiting to be uncovered.
So, grab your library card or head to a local bookstore to pick up one of these fantastic books! And while you're at it, make sure to stop by Tala for the perfect spring drink to pair with your new read. There's no better way to dive into your next spring adventure than with a delicious drink in hand and a captivating book to enjoy.
Marissa Cummings
On staff at our Libertyville café, Marissa loves befriending customers and making the perfect cup of coffee. When not behind the bar, she is usually curled up with a good mystery book and a warm miel in hand.