Appetizers

Tortilla Pizza Rolls, Mint Julep, and Turtles All the Way Down

July 3, 2025
editor
"Turtles All the Way Down" by John Green pairs perfectly with Tortilla Pizza Rolls and a refreshing Mint Julep. The book's introspective narrative and exploration of mental health align harmoniously with the casual comfort of these savory rolls. Sip on a Mint Julep, with its fresh minty notes, as you navigate the intricate thoughts conveyed through Green's storytelling. This combination offers a reflective yet relaxing experience, ideal for a book club meeting.
Tortilla Pizza Rolls

Ingredients

  • 4 large flour tortillas
  • 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup sliced pepperoni
  • ½ cup sliced black olives (optional)
  • ½ cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
  • ½ cup chopped bell peppers (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  • Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Prepare the Tortillas: Lay the tortillas flat on a clean surface. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce over each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
  • Add the Toppings: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce. Arrange the pepperoni slices, olives, mushrooms, and bell peppers on top of the cheese. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes for added flavor.
  • Roll the Tortillas: Starting from one end, carefully roll each tortilla tightly to enclose the fillings. Brush the outside of the rolls with olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven.
  • Slice and Bake: Using a sharp knife, slice each rolled tortilla into 1-inch wide pieces. Place the rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are golden brown and crispy.
  • Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Serve with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping, if desired.

Turtles All the Way Down

Turtles All the Way Down

Turtles All the Way Down is a poignant and raw narrative that brings readers into the world of Aza Holmes, a young woman navigating the challenges of mental illness. John Green unravels a compelling story about friendship, love, and the grasp of mental struggle, all while ensnaring the reader in Aza's introspective world.
FEATURED ON 60 MINUTES and FRESH AIR “So surprising and moving and true that I became completely unstrung.” – The New York Times Named a best book of the year by: The New York Times, NPR, TIME, Wall Street Journal, Boston Globe, Entertainment Weekly, Southern Living, Publishers Weekly, BookPage, A.V. Club, Bustle, BuzzFeed, Vulture, and many more! JOHN GREEN, the acclaimed author of Looking for Alaska and The Fault in Our Stars, returns with a story of shattering, unflinching clarity in this brilliant novel of love, resilience, and the power of lifelong friendship. Aza Holmes never intended to pursue the disappearance of fugitive billionaire Russell Pickett, but there’s a hundred-thousand-dollar reward at stake and her Best and Most Fearless Friend, Daisy, is eager to investigate. So together, they navigate the short distance and broad divides that separate them from Pickett’s son Davis. Aza is trying. She is trying to be a good daughter, a good friend, a good student, and maybe even a good detective, while also living within the ever-tightening spiral of her own thoughts.

Discussion Questions

  • How does Green portray the experience of living with OCD through Aza's character?
  • In what ways does friendship play a critical role in the story?
  • How does the mystery element enhance the narrative?
  • Discuss the significance of the title and its metaphorical meaning in Aza's journey.
  • What are the different ways Aza copes with her anxiety, and how effective are they?
  • How does Aza's relationship with her mother influence her mental health?
  • What role does Daisy play in Aza's life, and how does it evolve?
  • How does the novel depict the theme of identity and self-perception?
  • In what ways does the book address stigma around mental health?
  • How does the ending of the book impact your understanding of Aza's journey?
Authors: John Green
ISBN: 9780525555360
Publisher: Penguin
Published Date: 2017-10-10

Mint Julep

Mint Julep
The Mint Julep is a classic Southern cocktail known for its refreshing mint flavor, typically served cold over ice. It's a perfect accompaniment to the hearty and comforting Tortilla Pizza Rolls, providing a burst of flavor to cleanse the palate.

Ingredients

Main Drink:

  • 2 oz bourbon
  • 4 to 5 mint leaves
  • 1 sugar cube or 1/2 oz simple syrup
  • Crushed ice

Garnish:

  • Mint sprig

Instructions

Prepare the Glass:

  • Muddle mint leaves and sugar in a glass to release the mint oils.
  • Fill the glass halfway with crushed ice.

Mix the Drink:

  • Add bourbon and stir well to combine.
  • Top off with more crushed ice.
  • Garnish with a mint sprig.