Martha Plimpton shares some of her favorite music and books with us.

What have you read or seen over the past year that moved or surprised you?

"In the Heart of the Sea: The Tragedy of the Whaleship Essex" by Nathaniel Philbrick.

Brilliant account of the story that inspired Melville's "Moby Dick." Has me geeking out over early American history.

Also: "Bridesmaids."

What are you listening to right now?

The New Gillian Welch album, "The Harrow and the Harvest." Beautiful, haunting music.

What's the last great book you read?

See above, with "Moby Dick"- still reading.

What's one thing you're a fan of that people might not expect?

See above. I'm currently obsessed with early American history. Pilgrims, King Philip's War, early American

whaling history, the Mayflower Compact- it helps reduce my stress over the current state of politics. 

What's your favorite comfort food?

Linguini with clams- anything with pasta.