Mere Mortals Book Reviews
Mere Mortals Book Reviews is a podcast hosted by Kyrin Down and Juan Granados in which the two friends discuss and review books across a wide range of genres. The show places a special emphasis on classic literature and works that have stood the test of time, exploring why they remain relevant today. Episodes include regular reviews as well as a weekly live show, plus bonus content from cohost Juan. The tone is conversational and accessible, aimed at readers looking for thoughtful recommendations and discussion of enduring books.
Episodes
Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka — My First Kafka Read Was Weird
My first Franz Kafka read was weird, vivid and surprisingly enjoyable. In this Mere Mortals Book Review, I share my thoughts on Metamorphosis and the other short stories in this Penguin collection.From Gregor Samsa’s transformation to a tense taxi dispute and an unexpected insight about achievement, Kafka packs strange situations, precise details and memorable ideas into remarkably short stories.I
Why Murder ... Why Not? | In Cold Blood (Truman Capote) BOOK REVIEW
The best way to understand apathy is to not understand at all.In this episode, I’m back with a review of Truman Capote’s In Cold Blood, the 1966 classic that helped define the true crime genre. I unpack the book’s retelling of the brutal Clutter family murders in Kansas, the psychology of Perry Smith and Richard Hickock and Capote’s readable, gripping style. While I can appreciate the book’s histo
This Bestseller Made Me Feel Stupider | The Psychology of Stupidity Review
Can a book about stupidity leave you feeling stupider? The Psychology of Stupidity, edited by Jean-François Marmion, promises explanations from some of the world's smartest people. I finished it wondering how it became a bestseller.In this Mere Mortals Book Review, I explain why the collection disappointed me: repetitive discussions of terminology, arguments I found one-sided, and interviews that
Antifragile by Nassim Nicholas Taleb | Powerful Ideas, Frustrating Read
Can uncertainty make you stronger and does Antifragile actually show you how?In this Mere Mortals Book Review, Juan explores Antifragile: Things That Gain from Disorder by Nassim Nicholas Taleb. There are powerful ideas here, but I finished the book with mixed feelings about its practical application, repetition and relentless personal attacks.I unpack the difference between fragile, robust and an
We Want to Slow AI Down. Can It Work?
Can we slow AI development down while everyone is still trying to win the race?In this episode of Mere Mortals Book Reviews, I'm reviewing an article: “We Must Pace the Frontier” by Dario Amodei.I unpack the proposals for embedded evaluators, coordination between AI companies and international cooperation. Then I share where I'm supportive, where I'm sceptical, and why reading Nassim Nicholas Tale
I Never Watched Game of Thrones. Then I Read the Book | Book Review
I never watched Game of Thrones. Then I finally picked up George R. R. Martin's A Game of Thrones and I get it now.I went into the first book of A Song of Ice and Fire with almost no connection to the TV series. In fact, years ago I made it about four minutes into episode one before turning it off.The book was a very different story.It starts slowly enough, building the people, families, politics
I Read Elon Musk’s 69 Rules for Success | The Book of Elon Book Review
I read The Book of Elon by Eric Jorgenson, a collection of Elon Musk’s most useful ideas on purpose, engineering, business, hiring, intensity and problem-solving, presented largely through Musk’s own words.Rather than another Elon Musk biography, this book attempts to distil his operating system: how he thinks, why he works with such extreme intensity and which principles have shaped companies inc
Homer’s Odyssey: Still Worth Reading Today?
In this Mere Mortals book review, I talk through The Odyssey by Homer the famous follow-up companion to The Iliad, and one of the great adventure stories of the Western canon.Compared with The Iliad, I found The Odyssey much more readable, more story-driven, and honestly more enjoyable. This is the great soldier-returning-home story: Odysseus trying to make his way back to Ithaca after the Trojan
The Hairy Ass Of The Art World | Get The Picture (Bianca Bosker) BOOK REVIEW
Art is hairy, art is context, art is beauty and ..... art is big butts!?In this episode, I dive into 'Get the Picture' by Bianca Bosker, a 2024 book that explores the contemporary art world from the inside. Bosker approaches it through immersive journalism, working as a gallery assistant, art fair staffer, studio helper, museum guard and briefly as an artist herself. What I found most compelling w
Philosophy Mixed With Business | Zero To One (Peter Thiel) BOOK REVIEW
Abstract ideas made definite.In this episode of Mere Mortals book reviews, I dive into Peter Thiel’s 'Zero To One' and why its big-picture thinking resonates more than tactical business how‑to. I explore Thiel’s blend of abstract philosophy and concrete startup stories (from PayPal to Palantir) and discuss his contrarian takes on competition, monopoly and the value of being the last mover. I unpac
Like Me Please! | How To Win Friends & Influence People (Dale Carnegie) BOOK REVIEW
I'm begging you PLEASE, I'll be your very best friend.In this episode I review Dale Carnegie’s classic 'How to Win Friends & Influence People' nearly a century on from its publication. I walk through the book’s structure: principles on handling people, making people like you, winning others to your way of thinking and leading without resentment. Timeless advice still shines (smile, remember na
The Iliad by Homer: Rage, Glory & Why This Ancient Epic Still Hits Hard | Book Review
Most people approach The Iliad expecting the Trojan Horse. Instead, they find something darker: a story about wounded pride, uncontrollable rage, brutal violence and the moment vengeance finally gives way to pity.In this review, I break down Samuel Butler’s translation of Homer’s epic, the feud between Achilles and Agamemnon, Hector’s terrifying presence, the petty interference of the gods, the or
Thoughts Influence Your Character | As A Man Thinketh (James Allen) BOOK REVIEW
I was wrong and I admit it .... this is the real OG self help book.Today I dive into James Allen’s 'As a Man Thinketh' (paired in my edition with From Poverty to Power) and it still lands today. It's short, punchy and refreshingly non-woo-woo with clear calls to personal responsibility, character-building and right thought leading to right outcomes. I read standout quotes, reflect on how its agnos
Gaming In The OASIS | Ready Player One (Ernest Cline) BOOK REVIEW
What happens if the game really is better than real life?In this episode I dive into 'Ready Player One' by Ernest Cline and explore whether a virtual paradise can outshine the messy real world. I outline the OASIS, the 80s-saturated Easter egg hunt and the Gunter vs corporate showdown then share why the novel’s early gritty realism hooked me but later lost its footing as coincidences piled up and
Life & Death Battles Getting Silly | Dungeon Crawler Carl (Matt Dinniman) BOOK REVIEW
Are you entering into the dungeon? In this episode of Mere Mortals Book Reviews, I dive into 'Dungeon Crawler Carl' by Matt Dinniman, a fast-paced RPG romp that mixes real-world apocalypse with game-show chaos. I share why this was the perfect palate cleanser after some drier reads, how the humour lands (crude, clever and consistently fun) and what makes Carl and his imperious feline companio
Boy Did I Remember This Wrong | Think And Grow Rich (Napoleon Hill) BOOK REVIEW
The classic self-help book is a bit different than I remember. In Napoleon Hill’s 'Think And Grow Rich' I discover it’s not quite the book I remembered. I walk through what still shines—its optimism, self‑analysis prompts and the motivational push that helped me as a younger bloke to build self‑confidence, set goals and act with intention. I share the quotes and practices that I used to use a
Fossil Fuels To The Rescue | How The World Really Works (Vaclav Smil) BOOK REVIEW
Just how reliant are we on fossil fuels ..... well it turns out a lot! 'How The World Really Works' by Vaclav Smil showed me just how much we still need petroleum and coal to make plastics, ammonia, concrete and steel. So they're not going away any time soon.If you got value from the podcast please provide support back in any way you best see fit! Connect with Mere Mortals:Website
Coco Chanel: Genius, Myth & The Cost of Reinventing Yourself
After a short hiatus, I’m back with a paired review of The World According to Coco and The Little Book of Chanel. Truthfully, neither book is extraordinary on its own. But together, they open a far bigger question: what does it cost to reinvent yourself so completely that the myth becomes more powerful than the person?In this review, I explore Coco Chanel’s brutal beginnings, her obsession with un
Can AI Solve Everything by 2035? The Case for Abundance
In this episode of Mere Mortals, I review Solve Everything: Achieving Abundance by 2035 by Dr Peter H. Diamandis and Dr Alexander D. Wissner-Gross, a bold manifesto arguing that AI could give humanity the capability to solve nearly every major problem within a decade. I break down the article’s moonshot vision, the idea of directing intelligence with precision, and the hard truth that cultur
Dario Amodei’s AI Warning: We’re Closer Than People Realise
In this episode of Mere Mortals Book Reviews, I break down The Adolescence of Technology by Dario Amodei and why it reads less like a tech article and more like a civilisational warning memo. We explore AI safety, misuse, power, economic disruption, and the frightening speed at which these systems are advancing. The core tension is brutal: if this technology keeps accelerating without real guardra
This Book Predicts the Future (And It’s Terrifying) | Accelerando Book Review
I don’t even have the physical book… because Accelerando is free online and after reading it, I understand why it’s become a cult recommendation.This is dense, idea-heavy sci-fi that doesn’t hold your hand.It throws you into transhumanism, post-human economics, AI evolution, and singularity-level futures… and expects you to keep up.You’ll get:uploaded “lobsters”humans splitting into multiple versi
The Habits of High Performers | Book Review (James Laughlin)
Welcome back to the Mere Mortals Book Reviews. Today I’m reviewing Habits of High Performance by James Laughlin, a practical, activity-driven book built around foundational principles like getting radically clear, strengthening belief systems, leading life on purpose, multiplying motivation, doing the work, focusing priorities, and taking no shortcuts.(00:00) — Welcome + What We’re Reviewing
Tolkien’s Final Battle | The Return of the King Book Review
Welcome back to another edition of the Mere Mortals Book Reviews — and this time it’s the final instalment of Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King.(00:00) Welcome back + final instalment setup(00:47) I literally ripped the book in half (and why it fits the story)(02:30) The split storylines: battles vs Frodo & Sam(03:51) Sam as the real hero (stronger in the book)(04:32) B
17 Lessons from Mastery (Robert Greene) That Actually Change How You Work
This is the book learnings companion to my Mastery book review: I pulled 17 personal takeaways (from ~70 notes) and unpack what they mean in real life. We go from vocation and apprenticeship, to why “not even enlightenment is enough”, to the prepared mind, the dimensional mind, and why tech (especially AI) is collapsing the walls between fields.(00:00) Book learnings (and why you should watc
Mastery isn't talent, it's a process | Mastery Book Review
Mastery is not a gift handed to the “talented", it’s a ruthless process: time, patience, humility, apprenticeship, and the emotional control to not quit when it gets boring. In this review, I break down Greene’s core ideas, why social intelligence matters as much as skill, and how intuition gets forged through long exposure to the craft.(00:00) — Go against the tide: develop mastery(00:11) —
How to Collect Art: The Brutal Truth About Galleries, Power & Pricing
Ever looked at the art world and thought: how does any of this actually work?I read How to Collect Art (2024) by Magnus Resch to figure out whether a normal person can buy a single great piece… and whether art is actually a good investment.Resch approaches the art market like an economist: data, power structures, and the brutal reality of gatekeepers. The big theme? The art world isn’t a fre
Mere Mortals - How to review books
A short snippet on the way we do things behind the scenes as the new year approaches and a concerted effort in our book reviews rises.Connect with Mere Mortals:Website: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/Discord: https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReUTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/meremortalspodsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcasts/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcas
The most unique book in the Alex Rider series | Secret Weapon Book Review
In this Mere Mortals book review, I dive into Secret Weapon, the 12th entry in the Alex Rider series, but not a traditional one. Instead of a full-scale mission, Horowitz delivers seven short, fast-paced stories set early in Alex’s spy career. It’s action-packed, easy to consume, and offers small bursts of worldbuilding without fundamentally shifting the universe.(00:00) - Welcome & Book
Helm’s Deep to Shelob | Book Review The Two Towers
A raw, no-fluff review of The Two Towers — the darker, tighter middle act of LOTR. I cover the split structure, why Book III feels punchier (Helm’s Deep, Ents), why Book IV slows to a crawl before the Shelob crescendo, and how pain trains the will through Frodo’s burden and Sam’s rise. I read this over a couple of months and felt the weight, the world-building, and the payoff.Spoilers ahead: Ganda
Action-Packed Throwback with a Soft Spot | Book Review Never Say Die
Alex Rider returns in Never Say Die — a fast, zany, throwback instalment that swaps grit for velocity. I break down what works (pace, scale, that classic Rider ingenuity), what doesn’t (the Jack twist), and the one big philosophy that matters: leadership is action, not announcement.What you’ll hear:How the plot kicks off post-Egypt and why Alex goes rogue to follow a single clue.Why the “Jack is a
Not a sequel, but a reckoning | Book Review Russian Roulette
Horowitz turns the camera away from Alex and into the fire that forged Yassen. Set around the Stormbreaker timeline, this darker companion novel binds the series together with grit, symmetry and consequence. It’s not for first-timers, it’s a reward for the faithful.00:00 “Assassins aren’t born; they’re forged.”00:25 What this book is (context + where it fits)01:40 Non-spoiler thoughts, tone, pacin
When the book finally draws blood | Scorpia Rising Book Review
Alex Rider stops being bulletproof. In Scorpia Rising, Anthony Horowitz cashes in every IOU the series has dodged: real stakes, identity games, and a gut-punch that actually lands. Today I break down why this is the first truly adult entry in the YA spy saga and what it teaches about cost, courage, and growing up without permission.00:00 Cold Open — “The end begins here”00:38 Why Scorpia Rising Ma
Urgency Is Non-Negotiable | Crocodile Tears Book Review
A new villain and a new frontier. Crocodile Tears throws Alex Rider into the jaws—literally. We open in Scotland, meet philanthropist-on-paper Desmond McCain of the First Aid charity, and quickly discover a disaster-profit scheme that weaponises tragedy for donations. From GM-food labs and biodomes to fake cops, forced travel and a crocodile interrogation in Kenya, this one moves.Highlights we cov
Enemy Within: Alex Rider’s Darkest Test | Snakehead Book Review
“The enemy isn’t out there. It is within.” That line sets the tone for Snakehead, the seventh Alex Rider novel: darker, sharper, and closer to the bone. We open in Australia (very on-brand for me), surge into Bangkok, and tangle with human-trafficking rings and a bomb plot on the water. Along the way, we meet Ash and face the kind of betrayal that doesn’t fit neatly into “good guy / bad guy.”Big i
When a Teenage Spy Goes to Space | Ark Angel Book Review
Into space we go!Ark Angel takes Alex Rider higher, literally, as he stumbles from a hospital bed into a conspiracy that leads straight into orbit. Anthony Horowitz throws his young spy into billionaire plots, CIA entanglements, and finally, a space station showdown that decides the fate of nations.(00:00) – Welcome: Alex Rider in Ark Angel(00:19) – Why the series always feels limitless(00:56) – P
Alex Rider’s Identity Crisis | Scorpia Book Review
Scorpia isn’t just another Alex Rider adventure, it’s the book where everything shifts. Darker, grittier, and more morally complex, this is where Alex discovers the terrifying legacy of his father, the manipulative power of Scorpia, and the harsh truth that both MI6 and his enemies will use him as a pawn.In this review, I explore how Scorpia raises the stakes, the deeper philosophical undertones a
Careful what you wish for: Eagle Strike Book Review
In this review, we dive into Eagle Strike, the fourth Alex Rider book by Anthony Horowitz. Alex finds himself on his own against the billionaire villain Damian Cray, with MI6 refusing to back him. Packed with action, foreshadowing of Scorpia, and a surprising philosophical twist, this book marks the bridge between the light beginnings of the series and the darker arcs that follow.(00:00) - Welcome
Debunking Quacks & Biased Media | Bad Science (Ben Goldacre) BOOK REVIEW
There will always be someone selling BS, but you can learn how to spot it.'Bad Science' by Ben Goldacre is an expose of sorts showcasing instances of media (individuals & as a whole) distorting statistics & scientific data. He explains the various errors they commit while examining the various reasons as to why they occurred. There are 16 chapters focusing on topics like the placebo effect
What It Takes To Lead | Lee Kuan Yew (Allison & Blackwill) BOOK REVIEW
The future of Asia is interesting but even more so is the man who created it!'Lee Kuan Yew' by Allison & Blackwill is a compiled selection of speeches & quotes from Lee Kuan Yew bundled together to come across as a single interview. The focus is on his opinions over the years on what he imagines the future will look like. It's split into 10 chapters on topics like democracy, China/USA/Indi
Worldbuilding on Steroids: Fellowship of the Ring, Book Review
Tolkien doesn’t write chapters; he builds civilisations. The Fellowship of the Ring is a slow, deliberate march through languages, histories and the lived feel of time, a marathon of meaning more than a sprint of action. I respect the scope, loved the journey, but prefer punchier reads.(00:00) “You shall not pass.”(00:09) Welcome & why review Fellowship now(01:14) Trilogy intent & page hef
Semiconductors Shape The World | Chip War (Chris Miller) BOOK REVIEW
A world changing industry that kind of happened by coincidence.'Chip War' by Chris Miller is a detailed history of the semiconductor industry from its origins in the 1950's to the present day. Important individuals/companies rise and fall as it goes from a new emerging technology created by theorists/tinkers to the global powerhouse companies influenced by countries. It's split into 8 parts with 5
Strength Without Noise: Lessons from Skeleton Key’s Villain
In this Mere Mortals book review, we revisit Skeleton Key, the third Alex Rider novel, blending teenage espionage with lessons on stoicism, discipline, and composure. Beyond the action-packed spy drama, I explore how the book’s villain, the General, embodies a powerful, minimalistic strength that shaped my early understanding of discipline and quiet resilience. This isn’t just about the plot, it’s
Historians Attempting Poetry | The Lessons Of History (Will & Ariel Durant) BOOK REVIEW
Not only is history written by the victors, but it's altered by the academics!'The Lessons Of History' by Will & Ariel Durant is a small book that attempts to sum-up the history of humanity across several categories of human activity. They use examples from ancient civilisations but also add their own personal opinions into the mix. 13 chapters on Biology, Race, Character, Morals, Religion, Ec
Who's Going To Man The Boats? | Lords Of The Sea (John R. Hale) BOOK REVIEW
Move aside Sparta, there's a new power in town!'Lords of the Sea: The Epic Story of the Athenian Navy and the Birth of Democracy' by John R. Hale is a historical book that recounts the period from 483-322 BC of Ancient Greece and in particular the navy armada of Athens. We witness the rise and fall of Athenian power via not only sea battles with other empires but the decisions made by it's democra
Cloned to Conform: Point Blanc and the Death of Individuality
In this Mere Mortals book review, we dive into Point Blanc by Anthony Horowitz, a fast-paced youth fiction novel that sparks deeper questions about cloning, perfectionism and identity. Using the wild plot as a springboard, the episode unpacks modern obsessions with filtered personas and asks: what do we lose when we trade uniqueness for conformity?(00:00) - Intro & Series Overview(00:30) - Wha
Good Man, Corrupt Businessman | The Wizard Of Wall Street & His Wealth (Trumbull White) BOOK REVIEW
Be wary of association with the Wizard Of Wall St .... unless you are family or friends!'The Wizard Of Wall Street & His Wealth' by Trumbull White is a biography detailing the life of Jay Gould, at one point one of the wealthiest individuals in the world. It starts from his childhood and shows how he rose from poverty in the 1800's to become one of the robber barons of the Gilded Age. Plenty o
The Hobbit Review: Why This Classic Still Hits Hard in 2025
In this episode, we dive into The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien, the timeless tale that launched the modern fantasy genre. You'll hear why Bilbo Baggins’ unlikely hero’s journey still resonates today, what Tolkien nailed in his storytelling, and how this short adventure carries deep philosophical punch. From dragons to dwarves to life-changing quotes, this one is pure gold.(00:00) - Fog Over the Misty
Earn Money By Testing The Ticker | Reminiscences Of A Stock Operator (Edwin Lefevre) BOOK REVIEW
The fun side of rather questionable behaviour.'Reminiscences Of A Stock Operator' by Edwin Lefevre is a fictional 1st person account of a Wall St trader in the early 1900's, but largely based on the real life operator of Jesse Lauriston Livermore. He describes his early life trading in bucket shops before moving into more high leverage trading and ultimately market manipulation. Within you'll find
10 Lessons From Ryan Holiday’s Most Honest Book Yet
In this Mere Mortals Learnings episode, I unpack the raw insights from Right Thing, Right Now by Ryan Holiday. This book, focused on the Stoic virtue of justice, might not be his most thrilling but it’s undoubtedly the one that digs the deepest. From power and personal responsibility to kindness and selfishness, these lessons challenge you to live with purpose and integrity, especially when no one
Philosophical Essays & Nihilism | Readings From The Road
We're back from travelling, wiser & thankfully not sad about it.In this special episode we are covering 3 books of essays/philosophical investigations by written by 3 authors in the 20th century. The books themselves are 'What Does It All Mean?' by Thomas Nagel, 'What Is Man & Other Essays' by Mark Twain & 'The Foundation Pit' by Andrey Platonov. All 3 books question meaning and have a
Right Thing, Right Now: The Stoic Virtue We Avoid
In this Mere Mortals book review, I tackle Right Thing, Right Now by Ryan Holiday, the third in his Stoic Virtue series. It’s a slower, deeper, more reflective book centred on justice, the virtue that’s hardest to sell and hardest to live by. I share why this wasn’t my favourite read, but why it might be the most meaningful one for the long game of life.00:00 – Intro & Context on the Stoic Vir
Adapt or Die: The Youth Spy Who Sparked a Passion for Discipline | Stormbreaker BOOK REVIEW
A 14-year-old is thrust into the shadow world of espionage, where every move is a fight to survive—and grow up fast.My book review on an oldie but a goodie, Stormbreaker by Anthony Horrowitz(00:00) – You're Never Too Young to Die(00:47) – First Encounter at 14(02:15) – Spy Fantasy Meets Realism(03:38) – Plot Recap & Absurd Action(05:41) – Philosophy: Adapt to Survive(07:18) – Final Reflections
You Can’t Pour From an Empty Bucket: Real-World Laws for Life & Leadership
In this episode, I explore the concrete takeaways from The Diary of a CEO by Steven Bartlett. These aren’t abstract ideals—they're raw, lived-in lessons. From why your mind and body are your first foundation, to how meaningful questions shape behaviour, this reflection dives deep into the book’s most impactful ideas and challenges conventional wisdom around leadership, communication, and culture.(
33 Laws For Life & Business: A Tactical Review of Steven Bartlett's Philosophy
In this Mere Mortals book review, we dive into The Diary of a CEO by Steven Bartlett—an energetic, story-driven guide to business and life. This isn’t your typical theory-heavy read; it’s a tactical, quote-filled journey through 33 digestible laws forged from real experience. From mastering your skill set to navigating reputation and network, this book distils lessons from one of the most influent
Mobs & Crazes | Extraordinary Popular Delusions & The Madness Of Crowds (Charles Mackay) BOOK REVIEW
The best example of human madness is found across the ages.'Extraordinary Popular Delusions & The Madness Of Crowds' by Charles Mackay is a mammoth examination of the most ridiculous crazes across history, whether they be funny, bad or horrendous. Charles details some of the more well known financial bubbles (South Sea, Mississippi, Tulip Mania) but also catalogues well known alchemists/magnet
How I Choose Books | Techniques To Find & Prefilter Enjoyable Reads
Why don't I read recently published books?Today is a special episode where I am going over how I find new books, ways I actively try to avoid wasting my time & some little tricks & tips to get the most out of your reading.Would love to hear your feedback and appreciate any support you wish to give :)Timeline:(00:00:00) Intro(00:01:11) Finding New Books(00:14:05) Pre-Filtering(00:23:20) Tip
Small Snippets Of Counter-Wisdom | A Primer For Forgetting (Lewis Hyde) BOOK REVIEW
What was I reviewing again?'A Primer For Forgetting' by Lewis Hyde is a collection of intimate thoughts, stories, poems, mythological tales & quips. The primary theme is around forgetting & how this can be beneficial for an individual or groups, particularly when it relates to trauma. It's split into 4 parts (that he calls notebooks) about myth, self, nation & creation.If you got value
Mixing The Weird & The Mundane | Metamorphosis & Other Stories (Franz Kafka) BOOK REVIEW
Boy are cockroaches gross!'Metamorphosis & Other Stories' by Franz Kafka is a collection of prose poems, short stories, sketches, allegories, and novelettes. The longest is of Gregor Samsa, the travelling salesman who wakes up in his bed as a cockroach. You'll find others about conflict on a ship, dealing with annoying people on the street, etc. All are told in the surreal style he is kn
Cyberpunk At It's Very Coolest | Neuromancer (William Gibson) BOOK REVIEW
I'm jacking into cyberspace for some pain and pleasure.'Neuromancer' by William Gibson is a sci-fi classic that was right at the beginning of the cyberpunk genre. We follow Case in a futuristic techno world where he is hired to hack into a wealthy family's lair. He is part of a motley crew each with their own specialty, hired by an AI to free itself from it's restrictions. Think of Japan, robots,
Annoying Flying Assholes | Peter Pan (J.M. Barrie) BOOK REVIEW
We've got it all wrong, there's no good guys & bad guys .... they're all bad!'Peter Pan' by J.M. Barrie is a classic story of a child who never grows up. Peter lives in Neverland, a mystical island where pirates, Indians and wild beasts roam. He commands a gang of Lost Boys and takes them on adventures along with Wendy, Tinkerbell, John & Michael.If you got value from the podcast please pr
Buddhist Meditation Practices For Healing | Radical Acceptance (Tara Brach) BOOK REVIEW
Strategies to accept your suffering & heal yourself with compassion.'Radical Acceptance' by Tara Brach is a guide of various meditation & framing practices to recognise the root cause of emotional distress. These are derived from Buddhist principles and serve to help accept the current pain & suffering. There are 13 chapters that begin with a story followed by an explanation of the int
Western Stories/Eastern Philosophy | The Tao Of Pooh & The Te Of Piglet (Benjamin Hoff) BOOK REVIEW
You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.'The Tao Of Pooh & The Te Of Piglet' by Benjamin Hoff is a light read interpreting Taoism through the lens of A. A. Milne's 'Winnie The Pooh' characters. Core concepts such as The Way & Wu Wei are explored and why certain characters embody various aspects of the religion. It's told via the author interactin
New Language, New You | The Bilingual Brain (Albert Costa) BOOK REVIEW
What happens inside the head when you learn a 2nd language?'The Bilingual Brain' by Albert Costa is a quick summary of academic research on bilingual vs monolingual speakers. He looks at effects that knowing a 2nd language can have on the physical wiring as well as behavioural differences. So things like response times, vocab limits, gray matter density, etc. In the 5 chapters he goes over studies
Mastering Power: The Secrets Behind the 48 Laws
In this episode, we delve into key insights from Robert Greene's The 48 Laws of Power, highlighting powerful lessons on navigating relationships, mastering influence, and understanding human psychology. From the importance of knowing the rules—even if you choose not to follow them—to mastering strategic silence and spotting concealed intentions, these learnings reveal profound truths about influen
God Grant Me My Independence | Common Sense (Thomas Paine) BOOK REVIEW
Isn't it common sense to go wild & fight!!!'Common Sense' by Thomas Paine is a small pamphlet distributed just before the start of the American Revolution. In it he makes arguments for why they should break away from English governance to become their own independent country and not a colony. These focus on religious views of kings, the illegitimacy of hereditary rule & why England does no
The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene – Book Review & Analysis
Power is an elusive force, but Robert Greene distills it into 48 strategic laws that have stood the test of time. In this review, I break down the core themes, structure, and key takeaways from The 48 Laws of Power—a book that is equally revered and feared.This isn't just another self-help book; it's a deep dive into historical power dynamics, manipulation, and strategy. From Machiavelli to Napole
Interest Is Kind Of Interesting | The Price Of Time (Edward Chancellor) BOOK REVIEW
Out of interest, what price do you put on your time?'The Price Of Time' by Edward Chancellor is a look at interest rates across history and what effects they have had on human behaviour & therefore economic activity. His central argument is that the current rates of interest seen in modern times are too low and have led to distorted & unproductive outcomes. It consists of 3 parts split int
Love Intrigues & Speculation | The Gilded Age (Mark Twain & Charles Dudley Warner) BOOK REVIEW
Everybody is out for money ... politicians just want yours as well.'The Gilded Age' by Mark Twain & Charles Dudley Warner is a fictional tale of the money, speculation & intrigue of American politics. It has two main branches of the story that intersect. The first is about a cast of small town people who seek out the riches of Washington (Laura, Washington & Col. Eschol Sellers). The s
Does Australia Deserve It's Prosperity? | The Lucky Country (Donald Horne) BOOK REVIEW
Unjustified negativity has funny ways of rebounding right back at you.'The Lucky Country' by Donald Horne is a a subjective snapshot of Australian life in the 1960's. Donald creates a depiction of the average person, our way of life, relation to other countries (especially Asia) and the political landscape. He is rather scathing when taken as a whole but seems relatively balanced when talking abou
Change Your Lousy Business | Blue Ocean Strategy (W. Chan Kim & Renée Mauborgne) BOOK REVIEW
Surprisingly, if you appeal to tired & worn out people it might just reflect in your own work.'Blue Ocean Strategy' by W. Chan Kim & Renée Mauborgne is a business strategy book promoting the idea of moving away from a contested core business to less competitive greener pastures. Highlights several companies that have done this and why they were successful. Plenty of graphs, charts & li
Fighting Anarchy With Chaos | The Man Who Was Thursday (G.K. Chesterton) BOOK REVIEW
To save the world you must be first willing to burn it.'The Man Who Was Thursday' by G.K. Chesterton is a short fictional novel of a policeman who joins a 7 person high ranking cabal of anarchists to stop their evil ideology. He begins to learn that their are allies amongst the enemies & enlists their help to take down the behemoth ringleader Sunday. It's set in 1900's England and has a rather
The Art Of Translation | My Analysis Of Two Books Side By Side
How much meaning is lost when you are reading a translation?Today is a special episode where I am going over my findings from reading 'O Alquimista' in the original Portuguese and it's English translation side by side. I found that although the grammar prompt some differences the biggest effect was stylistic choices by the translator. This includes minor things like cutting out words/sentences to
An Arduous Battle Against Cancer | The Emperor Of All Maladies (Siddhartha Mukherjee) BOOK REVIEW
No easy wins and only tough decisions.'The Emperor Of All Maladies' by Siddhartha Mukherjee is a dense history of cancer throughout the centuries but particularly the 20th. Details breakthroughs in prevention, cure, chemotherapy, surgery, genetics and knowledge/understanding. Told from an American POV so largely uses stats from there whilst also showing how it is a global problem. Has a personal t
How To Indirectly Pick Up Girls | Day Bang (Roosh V) BOOK REVIEW
We're hitting the streets and looking for pet shops!'Day Bang' by Roosh V is a how to guide on meeting girls during the day. In particular he advocates for starting casual chats (where the girl doesn't initially realise you're hitting on her) in cafe's, book stores, retail outlets and on the street. He lays out his strategy for the elderly opener, dropping interesting bait about yourself before mo
Turning Obstacles Into Opportunities: Lessons from Ryan Holiday
I explore insights from "The Obstacle is the Way" by Ryan Holiday, highlighting key lessons on persistence, action, and overcoming challenges. The discussion delves into Stoic philosophy, personal growth strategies, and actionable advice for navigating obstacles with a positive mindset.(00:00) - Introduction: Persistence Defined(00:33) - Book Learnings: "The Obstacle is the Way" Overview(02:
Abuse, Heartbreak & Healing | Unlovable (Darren Hayes) BOOK REVIEW
What's a rather poor therapeutic strategy to heal trauma/abuse ..... become a global superstar!'Unlovable' by Darren Hayes is an autobiography of the solo musical artist and former front man of Savage Garden. It details his childhood growing up in Brisbane, turbulent home/school life due to an alcoholic/violent father, musical ups & downs, struggles with his sexuality & road to healing. It
Speculation Across The Ages | Devil Take The Hindmost (Edward Chancellor) BOOK REVIEW
All of the fun of gambling without any of the boring math!'Devil Take The Hindmost' by Edward Chancellor is a series of snapshots across history of financial speculation (so called bubbles). Presents not only the instances of craziness but also the feeling of the time (notable periods being The Tulip Mania, South Sea Bubble and The Gilded Age amongst others). Not super heavy on statistics; more so
A Brazilian Classic To Die For | The Posthumous Memoirs Of Brás Cubas (Machado De Assis) BOOK REVIEW
If you're already melancholic, try dying first and then see how you feel!'The Posthumous Memoirs Of Brás Cubas' by Machado De Assis is a reflection of memories from a man who has died but lived in Rio de Janeiro during the 19th century. Bras Cubas narrates his life in a melancholic style, jumping back in time after we learn of his demise. We see his struggles, his loves, his passions and his affai
Elon Musk’s Reality Distortion: 8 Lessons from a Life of Obsession
I dive into Walter Isaacson's biography of Elon Musk, highlighting eight powerful learnings about Elon’s work ethic, team structure, reality distortion, and the maniacal sense of urgency that shaped his ventures. From OpenAI’s origins to "X" continuity, the insights offer an inspiring yet extreme look into innovation and grit.(00:00) - Welcome & Intro: Learnings from Elon Musk(00:53) - S
A Sacrifice For The Greater Good | Ender's Game (Orson Scott Card) BOOK REVIEW
Is it moral to trick a willing participant in a deadly game?'Ender's Game' by Orson Scott Card is a sci-fi war scenario between humanity and hive mind insect aliens. Humanity survived two space battles but must prepare for the all important third. They recruit gifted children & train them mercilessly to be strategic commanders in the International Fleet. Ender Wiggin is the most talented of th
