Why I've been reading differently this month
Hi ,
I've been reading a few different things this month. Probably driven by the fact that I'm not really enjoying the book I'm currently working through (A World Without Email by Cal Newport), but I think after a few months of lots of heavier reading, it's just been nice to read things that look and feel a bit different.
Last week, I indulged in a mooch around Dymocks. The kind of bookshop mooch where you read blurbs of books you've never heard of, flick through things (being careful of those crisp spines), and generally explore without intent, rather than having a particular purchase something in mind. Such a treat. And so much more interesting than another 'people who bought x, also bought y' email, or Instagram recommendation.
Although don't get me wrong, I love an Instagram book recommendation.
Anyway, in this bookmark, I'll share the different reading material I've been immersing myself in over the last few weeks, along with some podcasts and music I've enjoyed.
In reading differently,
Steph
PS. To borrow from Austin Kleon (and everyone else who borrows this from Austin Kleon), this newsletter and the podcast are 'free but not cheap'. You can support their creation by purchasing your next book through my affiliate stores with Book Depository (global) or Bookshop (US), buying me a coffee or leaving a podcast review on the website. Thanks!
What I've been reading this month
I've been enjoying some different books this month... here they are.
The Loneliness of the Long-Distance Cartoonist by Adrian Tomine
The book is a memoir of the life and career of acclaimed cartoonist Adrian Tomine (he was the artist behind this New Yorker cover from last December). It is different as it's presented as a comic strip. I wasn't really a comic-book kid, so didn't have a pang of nostalgia when seeing the style, but I am really interested in non-fiction books that are presented in alternative ways.
The book pays particular focus on the awkward, the uncomfortable, and the frustrating moments Adrian has experienced. It's very human (I cringed a lot) and it also makes you wonder how other memoirs could benefit from a more visual approach.
The boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy
Another visual treat is this beautifully illustrated book. I've seen so many people raving about it, so I finally picked up a copy. It's definitely one to have in physical form. The book features important reminders about life, friendship, kindness, and gratitude, told through a dialogue between a little boy, a mole, a fox and a horse. Think Winnie the Pooh meets Brené Brown. I'd imagine this would be a nice bed-time reading book to end a day with (not necessarily just for children!).
Frankie magazine
I always think magazines are a bit of a guilty pleasure because of their environmental impact (on the basis they're generally more disposable than a book). That said, every so often I do enjoy immersing myself in a magazine for a change of reading pace. I love the short form stories, irreverent-but-grown-up style of Frankie's tone of voice, and the uplifting and quirky imagery and illustration style.
(If anyone has advice for reducing the impact and associated climate guilt of magazines, hit reply and let me know)
PS. if you'd like to take better book notes this year, you can enjoy a 15% discount on your very own copy of the Archley's Book of Books book journal, here^.
Ear food
Phone Calls with Clever People - I was delighted that Shane invited me on his podcast last week. We had a great conversation and nerded out about reading, learning, culture, and teaching. (Spotify / Apple)
The Sure Thing - A podcast about the biggest insider trading case in Australia, created by the AFR. Slightly over-dramatised in places, but an interesting look into greed and fraud. It also provokes an interesting conversation about how, as a society, we treat people who have served their time for the crimes the commit. (Spotify / Apple)
Music: Elbow - I've been diving back into Elbow's back catalogue over the last few days. So much good music, and tracks I'd forgotten about. (Spotify)
Meanwhile, on the bookshelf
Recent Steph's Business Bookshelf podcast episodes, in case you missed them...
Who Not How by Dan Sullivan and Dr Benjamin Hardy
(Listen)
The Almanack of Naval Ravikant byEric Jorgenson
(Listen)