Podcasts about book summaries

Send us a textGuess What? It's officially grey! We are in it. Oh my! It's Fifty shades of May over here on the Besties and the Books podcast. Welcome back to our spring mini episode series all about the extremely popular yet widely discredited book series: Fifty Shades of Grey by E.L. James. We're officially into book two and things are not exactly going as planned…If you've been following along and watched our “Dark Romance Enters the Chat” episode then you know, we trace romance novels wayyy back to their origin so we can discuss what societal conditions helped to produce this canon of works mostly written by women, for women, with women's stories, pleasure, and lived experiences at the center. We examine what influence romance books have had on literature and the publishing world as a whole, and then specifically discuss what impact Fifty Shades had on the genre! It just happens to be a BIG bonus that Ashley and Liz have never read it before. So this is all new information to us.We think that whether you find these books problematic or not, credit must be given where credit is due. The fact that these books have been stigmatized, criticized, and repeatedly knocked down is indicative (we think) of a larger societal problem: misogyny. Because as a society, it seems we just can't stand it when women are successful… or when they enjoy something. Whether it's objectively “good” or “profitable” or not. Episode 2 covers book 2: Fifty Shades Darker by E. L. James. The first five-ish minutes are spoiler free with our one sentence rapid star and spice ratings. Then we jam pack this mini episode with an entire plot summary in five sentences (with a special classical surprise!), discuss what our faves and fail characters and plot points are, our feelings, notable quotes, red flags, problematic elements, and end with a fun piece of Fifty Shades trivia.Don't be shy, subscribe! New Podcasts every Tuesday… and sometimes Friday! Check out these author interviews? ⬇️We interviewed Callie Hart all about her NYT Bestseller Quicksilver! Watch it here! | https://youtu.be/CED5s7qDBdQ?si=8xtIRO1IzX6Rsld4Check the official Author Interview with Lindsay Straube of Split or Swallow! Now a Barnes & Noble & Amazon best seller titled: Kiss of the Basilisk! | https://youtu.be/fknhocSNIKMLooking for your next murder mystery Romantasy? Preview This Monster of Mine with our interview with debut author Shalini Abeysekara! | https://youtu.be/dMoOSLW1vTE?si=n6z3RXxSutNXN2oShop bookish apparel worn in this episode!Ashley is wearing: “The Right Way Isn't The Only Way” Fourth Wing Sweater from @TheBeanWorkshop (use our affiliate code “BOOKBESTIES10”)  | * https://www.thebeanworkshop.store/BOOKBESTIES1Liz is wearing “Praise Me” Tee by @darkanddisturbedshop | Use Code: VEGAN10 to save! | https://darkanddisturbedshop.com/products/praise-me-tee?_pos=2&_sid=81592a902&_ss=rAny link with an * is an affiliate link through the service Magic Links and is eYouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Podcast Platforms@BestiesandtheBooksPodcast Besties and the Book Club on Fable!https://fable.co/bestiesandthebookclub-474863489358Liz Instagram | TikTok@TheRealLifeVeganWife AshleyInstagram | TikTok@AshleyEllix

"The New Mindset for Innovating Smarter"

Send us a textWelcome to our newest series reading “UnPopular Books by Popular Authors”! Today we're kicking it off with Sarah J Maas and Catwoman: Soulstealer! ***A huge thank you to The Bookish Queen for Sponsoring this episode!*****Check out the ultimate bookish shop and use discount code “BESTIEBOOKS15” to save 15% on your order @ https://bookishqueen.com/discount/BESTIEBOOKS15 Follow and get Inspo from them on Instagram @bookishqueenshop**Have you already read this somewhat “secret” book by Sarah J. Maas and just want to hear more? Or will you now be picking up this book to read it yourself after hearing our reviews?We can't believe booktok and bookstagram forgot to mention this semi secret book by SJM! In this episode we give you our spoiler free reviews and explain why we think this DC Comics collab was a bit of a flop.First we'll set the scene, explaining what type of book Catwoman is, what type of series it's a part of, how the book is rated on Goodreads, and how it stacks up in comparison to SJM's other notoriously successful works. Then we'll get into the deep dive, our 5 sentence book summary, our personal thoughts, some outside reviews, and ultimately if it's worth reading, and if we'll continue the series. You might be surprised at what we found.

"Creating Powerful and Positive Relationships Within the Family"

"What You're Missing and Why It Matters"

Useful Not True Book Summary | Why Truth Doesn't Matter as Much as You ThinkWhat if the question “Is this true?” is the wrong one to ask?In Useful Not True, Derek Sivers flips the script on how we think about truth, beliefs, and reality. Instead of obsessing over what's factually accurate, Sivers asks a more powerful question: Is this belief useful?In this Book Summary, you'll discover: ✔ Why truth is often just perspective (and that's okay) ✔ How to separate facts from feelings ✔ The power of choosing beliefs that serve you, even if they're not “true” ✔ How rules, obligations, and cultural norms are more flexible than you think ✔ Why reframing your beliefs can change your life

>> Get The Book (Buy Back Your Time): ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/3pCTG78⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ >> Subscribe to My Newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/3W2tjp2Stop wasting your time on discipline and willpower. These 15 productivity principles are how I went from an ADHD mess to a hyperproductive $100M CEO... and how you can get sh*t done even when they don't feel like it.They're the same principles I mapped to each chapter in my book, Buy Back Your Time.Start crushing your goals TODAY without the struggle.

"Make Everything in Life Easier"

What happens when leadership loses its way — and work loses its soul, let alone its staff? In S2 Ep37 the impressive Rishad Tobaccowala, futurist, author, and former Chief Strategy / Growth Officer (now Senior Advisor) of Publicis Groupe joins me on Insider Interviews to offer a refreshingly human take on the future of work. And yes, we have a musical interlude.... The author of “Restoring the Soul of Business” and his latest,  "Rethinking Work," explains what it really takes to stay relevant in marketing -- and business in general. As Rishad says, “Change Sucks. But irrelevance is worse!” First, I found out that we are both quadruple espresso fans, so if you wonder where Rishad gets his energy.... THEN I discovered we both had a thing about MATH that changed our respective trajectories*. But, after comparing our coffee rituals we go full steam into how companies need to evolve old leadership styles —from “bossing” to inspiring. Rishad shares why corporate models are in urgent need of a reset, and how flexibility, curiosity, and a human-centered approach must replace outdated hierarchies. Think “fractional workers” and project-based teams meets AI. Rishad urges organizations to stop clinging to legacy systems and start designing for the future. But, as this is primarily a show about media, marketing and advertising, (he is, after all, being inducted in the Advertising Hall of Fame) he also explores how storytelling goes hand in hand with tech and remains a marketing essential — not despite the data age, but because of it. Discover the "5 Cs" of embracing the future in Marketing. Interestingly, as former Chairman of Razorfish, his imprint may have been made on Anthony Yell, who - per Epi 30 - clearly agrees in Collaboration and merging Creativity with tech and storytelling! Of course, we talk brand purpose -- and that theme actually runs through it all, with Rishad explaining how generosity is not just as a personal value, but a business advantage. He shares how this belief drives the Tobaccowala Foundation's work in improving access to education and healthcare in India — and why doing good can, and should, be good business. This episode is a frank but, yes, inspiring look at how to rethink work, reimagine leadership, and build companies that serve people — not just profit. *(FYI: Hear how math impacted the journey of Cadillac CMO Melissa Grady, too!) Key Moments:  01:03 Rishad Tobaccowala's Background and Award-Worthy Achievements! 02:57 The Essence of Rishad's Books - "Restoring the Soul of Business" and "Rethinking Work"   03:28 Combining Story and Data in Business 06:21 The Continuing Impact of Pandemic WFH Mentality and the Impact of AI on Work Lifestyles 07:11 Rethinking Work Now and Near Term Future Trends 11:02 Strategies for Embracing Change (Yes it "Sucks" But so Does Irrelevance!) 13:04 Building a Future-Ready Workforce 22:02 Personal Development Thru Continuous Learning 23:46 Mentorship and Leadership Advice Through Musical Metaphors (AKA: E.B. has to Sing Again) 25:37 The Crisis in Modern Leadership 26:07 Boss vs. Leader: Key Differences 32:06 Generosity as a Strategy 37:39 The Tobaccowala Foundation's Mission 39:45 The Future of Marketing and Creativity (Hint: Does Not Fit in the Containers of the Past!)  46:03 Book Summary and Can't Miss Resources Oh, and you might WIN! ...Add a "like" and a comment on Apple, Spotify or YouTube for this episode, and I'll randomly (okay, those who LOVE the show might have an advantage!) will be entered to win a copy of Rishad's book which I'll announce on or before 4/30/25. BUT to make SURE you get your own, and to learn more about Rishad, visit:  https://rethinking-work.io/whats-inside-2  Follow, Connect & Share the Love Connect with Rishad: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rishadtobaccowala/ Learn about Rishad/Purchase Rethinking Work: https://rethinking-work.io/ Connect with E.B.

Show notes / PDF & Infographic / Free Audiobook / What if I told you that America is showing the exact same warning signs as every fallen empire in history? The U.S. is now 247 years old... and according to billionaire Ray Dalio's research, empires collapse after about 250 years. This isn't a conspiracy theory - it's a pattern that's repeated for centuries. In this 15-minute StoryShots audiobook summary, you'll discover why high debt, money printing, and political division aren't random problems... they're predictable stages of decline that have happened to EVERY major power before us. But here's the good news: once you understand the pattern, you can prepare. Listen to find out how... Ray Dalio's book 'Principles for Dealing with the Changing World Order' explores how nations rise and fall through predictable historical cycles. By studying 500 years of global economic history, Dalio reveals a 'Big Cycle' where empires typically emerge, build strong systems, become powerful, and then decline over approximately 250 years. This pattern is characterized by specific stages, including building robust education and technology systems, becoming financially successful, achieving military strength, and eventually facing challenges like excessive debt, wealth inequality, and political division. The book identifies three primary forces driving these historical changes: the debt and money cycle, internal disorder, and external disorder. Dalio analyzes how countries like the United States and China fit into these patterns, highlighting eight key factors that determine a nation's power, including education, competitiveness, innovation, economic output, trade, military strength, financial systems, and reserve currency status. He specifically examines the United States' current position, noting warning signs of potential decline such as high government debt, wealth inequality, political polarization, and infrastructure decay. While the book presents a potentially concerning narrative about global power transitions, it also offers practical advice for individuals, investors, and policymakers. Dalio recommends developing adaptable skills, diversifying investments across countries, learning from historical patterns, and preparing for potential economic shifts. The core message is not one of inevitable doom, but of understanding historical cycles to navigate change more effectively. By studying these patterns, individuals and societies can better position themselves to thrive during significant global transformations. Google, Apple, Facebook, Ray Dalio, Time Magazine, Hyundai, Harvard Business School, Samsung, Bridgewater Associates, Niall Ferguson, Principles for dealing with the changing World order, StoryShots, Life and Work, Empires, economics, China, United States, History, Empires, Economics, History, China, Geopolitics, Investment History follows predictable 'Big Cycles' where empires rise and fall approximately every 250 years, characterized by clear stages of emergence, success, and decline Three major interconnected cycles drive global power shifts: debt/money cycles, internal social disorder, and external geopolitical competition The United States shows multiple signs of potential imperial decline, including massive government debt, wealth inequality, political polarization, and declining infrastructure (00:00) Introduction: America's Warning Signs (00:58) Understanding Historical Patterns (02:30) About Ray Dalio (04:18) The Big Cycle of History (05:50) The Rise and Fall of Empires (07:04) Three Main Forces of Change (10:33) Eight Key Factors of National Power (14:22) The Privilege of Reserve Currency Status (16:12) Signs of American Decline (17:57) China's Remarkable Rise (19:57) Internal Problems Leading to External Conflicts (21:38) Preparing for the Changing World Order (23:20) Final Summary and Reflections (26:26) Criticism and Praise of the Book (27:45) Recommended Reads Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"A Daring Strategy to Change How We Live, Lead, and Love"

Show notes / PDF & Infographic / Free Audiobook / Unleash Your Inner Artist with Rick Rubin's The Creative Act: A Way of Being. Key figures and topics: Creativity, Art, Intuition, Inspiration, Process, Mindfulness, intuition, Process, self-discovery, Creativity, Art, Kanye West, Mandy Moore, Ed Sheeran, Johnny Cash, Rick Rubin, Jay Z, NYU, Lady Gaga, , The Creative Act: A Way of Being, Sterling K. Brown, Chris Sullivan, Def Jam Records, StoryShots, Ego, story shorts, Red Hot Chili Peppers, In the book summary of I Will Teach You to Be Rich by Ramit Sethi, the focus is on developing a personal financial strategy that empowers individuals to take control of their financial futures. The book emphasizes the importance of defining what being rich means to you personally, and encourages conscious spending by tracking expenses and making informed financial decisions. Sethi advocates for prioritizing spending on things you truly love while cutting back on less important expenses. The summary highlights key strategies for financial success, including starting early to leverage compound interest and breaking free from excuses that hinder financial growth. Sethi recommends focusing on macro financial decisions rather than getting caught up in minor cost-cutting measures. The book outlines 12 critical financial strategies, such as automating your money system, maintaining a good credit score, getting employer 401k matches, and negotiating raises. A central theme of the book is creating an automatic money management system that simplifies financial planning and helps individuals stick to long-term financial goals. By setting up multiple accounts for different purposes - including checking, savings, credit cards, retirement, and investment accounts - individuals can more effectively manage their finances. Sethi's approach is practical and non-judgmental, focusing on creating sustainable financial habits that align with personal values and long-term objectives. Key takeaways: Define what being 'rich' means to you personally and practice conscious spending by prioritizing expenses that truly matter to you Start investing and building wealth early to leverage compound interest and establish smart money habits over time Avoid making excuses that prevent financial progress; take action even if your initial steps aren't perfect Focus on macro financial strategies like automating your money system, maintaining a good credit score, and contributing to retirement accounts rather than getting stuck on minor expenses Set up an automatic money management system with multiple accounts (checking, savings, credit card, retirement, investment) to simplify finances and ensure consistent financial habits Prioritize five to ten key financial actions that yield significant results, such as negotiating raises, cutting major expenses, and using credit cards strategically Adopt a mindset of financial growth by being willing to start small and consistently improve your money management skills Challenge conventional financial wisdom by making informed, personalized decisions about spending and investing based on your individual goals (00:00) Introduction to The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin (01:05) About Rick Rubin (01:50) Everyone Is a Creator (02:55) Living Life as an Artist (03:53) Look Inward (04:52) Trust Your Intuition (06:17) Don't Let Doubt Hinder Your Creativity (07:25) Breaking Through the Creative Block (08:21) 10 Small Steps for Shaking up Your Process (10:53) 4 Steps to Bringing Creative Work to Life (12:17) Finding Fulfillment Through Experimentation and Completion (13:48) Final Summary and Review (15:00) Rating Related Book Summaries Creativity Inc. by Ed Catmull and Amy Wallace Discipline is Destiny by Ryan Holiday The War of Art by Steven Pressfield The Good Life by Robert Waldinger The Practice by Seth Godin Never Finished by David Goggins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"A Philosophical Masterpiece on the Boundaries Between Good and Evil" Transcript and written book summary available here for free

Send us a textToday we're discussing the highly anticipated brand new book in the Hunger Games world: Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins. We go back in time (yet again!) to the 50th Quarter Quell, also known as Haymitch Abernathy's Hunger Games to answer all the questions we still have. How exactly did he become a victor and the gruff but lovable mentor we all grew to love in the original trilogy? What happened to Haymitch?!This book is full of so many amazing “easter eggs” and tie-ins to the original trilogy. It fills in SO many satisfying blanks while still leaving a little bit up to interpretation. We're ready to pick this book apart and make all of those connections with you as we celebrate this amazing book and get ready to close this Hunger Games chapter (for now). If you've been following along and watched our “From 1984 to Hunger Games” dystopian themes in media and literature episode then you know we're fascinated with everything about this genre and need to delve into this discussion! It just happens to be a BIG bonus that Ashley had never read it before. The debate currently on the book talk table is whether or not books (and the act of reading) are inherently political. We'd encourage anyone who has a doubt in their mind to read this series… with themes like media control, a totalitarian regime, and rebellion, it's hard to see how it ISN'T political.Episode 5 covers book 5 (or 0.75?): Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins. The first five-ish minutes are spoiler free with our one sentence rapid star reviews. Then we jam pack this mini episode with an entire plot summary in five sentences (yes, with a keyboard…), discuss what our faves and fail characters and plot points are, our feelings, notable quotes, and discuss ALL the easter eggs. Then we wrap this up with some surprise questions and some excitement for next week's final Hunger Games episode because we give our wrap up thoughts, our overall reviews, discuss the movies, and announce our next miniseries starting soon! We can't wait to see you there!  Mentioned Source:“We Already Know How Sunrise on the Reaping Ends. That Doesn't Change Its Impact.”By: Lauren Puckett-Pope | https://www.elle.com/culture/books/a64233635/sunrise-on-the-reaping-hunger-games-prequel-ending-explained-review/Shop bookish apparel worn in this episode!Ashley is wearing “Undead Readers Book Club” Tee by @bookbabedesigns | https://bookbabedesigns.comLiz is wearing “Fire Breathing B*tch Queen” Baby Tee by @chaptercatchers | https://go.magik.ly/ml/2b21c/Any link with an * is an affiliate link through the service Magic Links and is eligible for a commission to us with no extra cost to you. Thank you for helping support our podcast!YouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Podcast Platforms@BestiesandtheBooksPodcast Besties and the Book Club on Fable!https://fable.co/bestiesandthebookclub-474863489358Liz Instagram | TikTok@TheRealLifeVeganWife AshleyInstagram | TikTok@AshleyEllix

Show notes / PDF & Infographic / Free Audiobook / Have you ever wondered why your brain feels like it's on a hamster wheel that never stops? Today, we're diving into the game-changing classic Mindfulness in Plain English – the book that's transformed millions of scattered minds into islands of calm. Key figures and topics: Mindfulness, Meditation, Present-Moment, Awareness, Self-Discovery, Buddhism, Self-awareness, Meditation, buddhism, personal development, Mindfulness, Audible, Mindfulness in Plain English, Vipassana Meditation, StoryShots, Bhante Henepola Gunaratana, Eight Mindful Steps to Happiness, Journey to Mindfulness, Bhavana Society, story shorts The episode explores Bhante Henepola Gunaratana's book 'Mindfulness in Plain English', offering an in-depth look at mindfulness meditation and its potential to transform personal awareness. The book provides a practical, accessible approach to meditation that demystifies the practice, showing how it can help individuals break free from mental habits, reduce stress, and find inner peace. Gunaratana, a Buddhist monk with over 80 years of teaching experience, presents mindfulness as a method for understanding one's inner world and developing a more present, conscious way of living. The episode delves into key concepts of mindfulness, such as the illusion of a fixed self, the impact of ego, and the importance of observing thoughts without judgment. It explains Vipassana meditation as a technique for developing awareness, helping practitioners learn to focus on their breath, notice sensations and emotions without labeling them, and gradually build mental strength and clarity. The discussion emphasizes that mindfulness is not about achieving a mystical state, but about developing a practical skill that can be integrated into daily life. Ultimately, the book and podcast suggest that mindfulness is a transformative practice that extends beyond formal meditation, offering benefits in personal growth, emotional regulation, and interpersonal relationships. By practicing consistent awareness, individuals can learn to respond more thoughtfully to life's challenges, reduce suffering caused by disconnection from the present moment, and cultivate a deeper appreciation for everyday experiences. The key message is that mindfulness is accessible to everyone and can be developed gradually through patient, consistent practice. (00:00:00) Introduction (00:03:06) About Bhante Henepola Gunaratana (00:03:34) Modern life lacks fulfillment (00:10:38) How to Begin Meditation. (00:12:32) Embrace the struggle. (00:13:43) Why does meditation feel difficult? Mindfulness is a practical approach to finding inner peace by developing present-moment awareness, not an esoteric or religious practice Most human suffering stems from living in the past or future, rather than experiencing the present moment fully Meditation is a skill anyone can learn, requiring only consistency and patience, not special abilities or long hours of practice The 'self' is an illusion - our identity is fluid, and we can free ourselves from ego-driven reactions by observing our thoughts without judgment External achievements and material possessions cannot bring lasting happiness; true contentment comes from internal awareness and acceptance Vipassana meditation helps train the nervous system to respond calmly to stress by developing insight into the impermanent nature of thoughts and emotions Mindfulness is a transformative practice that extends beyond formal meditation, potentially improving relationships, emotional regulation, and overall life satisfaction Personal growth through mindfulness is gradual - small, consistent practices accumulate to create profound changes in perception and response to life's challenges Related books: The Power of Now Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"How a Single Chemical in Your Brain Drives Love, Sex, and Creativity – and Will Determine the Fate of the Human Race"

Send us a textWelcome back to Ashley & Liz's dystopian sci fi episode bonus series: The Hunger Games!Today we go back in time to discuss President Snow and his origin story. How exactly did he become a “villian” and what does his evolution into a tyrannical dictator say about the society that created him? How did Panem and the games themselves evolve into the world we know?This book is full of so many amazing “easter eggs” and tie-ins to the original trilogy. We're ready to pick those apart and make all of those connections with you as we gear up for our final book episode all about Sunrise on the Reaping. If you've been following along and watched our “From 1984 to Hunger Games” dystopian themes in media and literature episode then you know we're fascinated with everything about this genre and need to delve into this discussion! It just happens to be a BIG bonus that Ashley had never read it before. The debate currently on the book talk table is whether or not books (and the act of reading) are inherently political. We'd encourage anyone who has a doubt in their mind to read this series… with themes like media control, a totalitarian regime, and rebellion, it's hard to see how it ISN'T political.Episode 4 covers book 4 (or 0.5?): A Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes by Suzanne Collins. The first five-ish minutes are spoiler free with our one sentence rapid star reviews. Then we jam pack this mini episode with an entire plot summary in five sentences (yes, with a keyboard…), discuss what our faves and fail characters and plot points are, our feelings, notable quotes, and add a fun piece of prequel trivia. Then we wrap this up with a little smash or pass and some big excitement to read the new book with all of you! Don't be shy, subscribe! New Podcasts every Tuesday… and sometimes Friday! Check out these author interviews? ⬇️We interviewed Callie Hart all about her NYT Bestseller Quicksilver! Watch it here! https://youtu.be/CED5s7qDBdQ?si=8xtIRO1IzX6Rsld4Check the official Author Interview with Lindsay Straube of Split or Swallow! Now a Barnes & Noble & Amazon best seller titled: Kiss of the Basilisk!  https://youtu.be/fknhocSNIKMWatch our Author Interview with Indie Dark Romance Author Ember Nicole here | https://youtu.be/tHV9rXSTBpY?si=OwxdMVfPmtFkcYu6Shop bookish apparel worn in this episode!Ashley is wearing “To Whatever End” Throne of Glass tshirt from @thebeanworkshop Use code BOOKBESTIES10 to save! | * https://www.thebeanworkshop.store/BOOKBESTIES10Liz is wearing Besties & the Books Exclusive Beanie & “Bookish” Necklace by @twiheartmerch | https://www.etsy.com/shop/TwiHeartMerch?ref=related&from_page=listing&listing_id=1787487095Any link with an * is an affiliate link through the service Magic Links and is eligible for a commission to us with no extra cost to you. Thank you for helping support our podcast!YouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Podcast Platforms@BestiesandtheBooksPodcast Besties and the Book Club on Fable!https://fable.co/bestiesandthebookclub-474863489358Liz Instagram | TikTok@TheRealLifeVeganWife AshleyInstagram | TikTok@AshleyEllix

Show notes / PDF & Infographic / Free Audiobook / You're wasting your energy trying to control what others think of you. Mel Robbins' Let Them Theory reveals why—and how you can finally break free. Stop the exhausting cycle of seeking approval and reclaim your power. German

"The Hidden Driver of Excellence"

Send us a textWelcome back to Ashley & Liz's dystopian sci fi episode bonus series: The Hunger Games!Today we get SERIOUS as we discuss the amazingly well written, heart wrenching grand finale to the original trilogy. What parallels do we see reflected in real life? Are the dystopian themes regarding media control, rebellion, war, government control, environmental degradation and resource allocation applicable to today's world? Come with us as we open these topics of discussion through a Katniss Everdeen lens.If you've been following along and watched our “From 1984 to Hunger Games” dystopian themes in media and literature episode then you know we're fascinated with everything about this genre and need to delve into this discussion! It just happens to be a BIG bonus that Ashley had never read it before. The debate currently on the book talk table is whether or not books (and the act of reading) are inherently political. We'd encourage anyone who has a doubt in their mind to read this series… with themes like media control, a totalitarian regime, and rebellion, it's hard to see how it ISN'T political.Episode 3 covers book 3: Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins. The first five-ish minutes are spoiler free with our one sentence rapid star reviews. Then we jam pack this mini episode with an entire plot summary in five sentences (yes, with a keyboard…), discuss what our faves and fail characters and plot points are, our feelings, notable quotes, and add a fun piece of Hunger Games trivia. Then we wrap this trilogy up with the ultimate Gale vs. Peeta debate. Were these characters meant to represent something much larger than themselves? We'll see… and then we'll dive right into A Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes… because obviously Snow was a smash.

"Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High"

"How to Control Your Attention and Choose Your Life"