1 ½ cups warm water
1 tbsp. salt
1 tbsp. sugar
1 packet active dry yeast
4 ½ cups flour
2 tbsp. oil
⅔ cup baking soda
2 eggs, beaten
Coarse salt

Mix water, salt, sugar, yeast, flour, and oil into dough. Dab with oil and place in a bowl covered with plastic wrap in a warm place for one hour. Cut dough into eight pieces. Roll each piece into thin ropes, twisting to form a pretzel shape. Bring water and baking soda to a boil in a large pot and cook each pretzel for 30 seconds per side. Place pretzels on a baking sheet, brush with egg, and sprinkle with salt. Bake 15 minutes at 400°F or until golden brown.

New York Times bestselling author Fredrik Backman was born June 2, 1981, in Sweden. He began writing while earning a living as a truck driver. He gained literary prominence with his debut novel, A Man Called Ove, which was later adapted into the American film A Man Called Otto, featuring Tom Hanks. Backman's other best-selling works encompass My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She's Sorry, Britt-Marie Was Here, Beartown, Us Against You, and Anxious People. His books have been published in more than 46 languages. Backman lives in Stockholm, Sweden, with his wife and two children.

Did you know you are more likely to come up with creative ideas while in the shower?

This shower effect is caused because warm water boosts dopamine flow, which can increase free-flowing creativity and spontaneous thoughts. A relaxed state of mind can enhance creativity because it is easier for your mind to wander when doing habitual tasks. In contrast, when you diligently focus, your attention tends to be directed toward details of problems you are trying to solve.

• A long rain jacket
• Animal fur soaked with water
• A coating that covers the entire surface of a paper sheet

Answer: In printing, a flood coat refers to any coating applied over the whole surface of the paper, leaving no part uncovered.