Madeline and Laura discuss Blake Bulter's deeply personal biography Molly. They discuss Butler's captivating and intimate writing, and break down the controversy over the ethics of publishing Molly's story. Content warnings: This episode contains discussion of suicide, drug and alcohol abuse, and emotional abuse.
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1:28:20
All Fours by Miranda July
Madeline and Laura discuss Miranda July's 2024 National Book Award Finalist, All Fours. This discussion contains spoilers.
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1:33:13
Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin
Madeline and Laura dive into Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin, dissecting its ambitious exploration of friendship, trauma, and the gaming industry. From the fragmented plot and complex characters to the unexpected thematic twists, they grapple with the novel’s portrayal of Sam and Sadie—two deeply flawed protagonists navigating their way through creative highs and personal lows. They discuss everything from the relentless nostalgia of The Oregon Trail to the mishandled depiction of trauma and identity and unpack what made this book a fascinating, frustrating ride.
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1:25:33
Down the Drain by Julia Fox
Madeline and Laura dive into Julia Fox's provocative memoir, Down the Drain. They explore Fox's candid reflections on her childhood, art, sexuality, and fame. Join them as they discuss the balance of vulnerability and strength in her storytelling and whether this book transcends the celebrity memoir genre.
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1:45:16
FTW 40 - Bright Young Women by Jessica Knoll
Madeline and Laura discuss Bright Young Women by Jessica Knoll in this thought-provoking episode of our book discussion podcast. Dive into a lively conversation about the ethics of consuming true crime content, the complex layers of gender politics presented in the novel, and why, despite high expectations, neither of us found ourselves captivated by Knoll's latest work. Join us as we unravel the book's provocative themes, critique its execution, and explore how it fits within the broader landscape of true crime narratives. Whether you’ve read the book or are just curious about the conversation, this episode offers an engaging analysis and a candid reflection on our reading experience.