The hottest Books Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Business Topics

Timeless Wisdom Meets Artificial Intelligence

Intentional Wisdom • 39 implied HN points • 16 Apr 23
🕹 Technology Books
  1. Timeless Wisdom Meets Artificial Intelligence - Discussing staying smart in a changing world
  2. Key Insights from Kevin Kelly's Book - Nuggets of wisdom on various topics like parenting, mindset, and routines
  3. Top-10 Takeaways on AI - Insights on AI's impact, job roles, productivity gains, and the future

Ted Lasso & Smigus Dyngus

The Chase • 39 implied HN points • 07 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Books
  1. The term Smigus Dyngus is an obscure inside joke that the author's family has used for years.
  2. Smigus Dyngus is a centuries-old pagan tradition from Central Europe involving soaking young women with water on Easter Monday.
  3. Today, Smigus Dyngus has evolved into a more gender-inclusive water fight tradition in many places around the world.

Little Treats #7

Autoscriptorium • 39 implied HN points • 07 Aug 23
🪞 Fashion & Beauty Books
  1. The author highlights various little treats including scalp body scrub and Russian manicures in this post.
  2. The SunSeeker app is praised as a useful application of AR for apartment hunting and plein air painting.
  3. Book recommendations are included such as 'Lives of Wives' and 'The Silk Road' for those looking for new reads.

Little Treats #6

Autoscriptorium • 39 implied HN points • 29 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Books
  1. The author shares things they enjoy, like a gel lotion, bitters and seltzer, and certain foods.
  2. The author recommends books they like, including works by Gene Wolfe and Donald Antrim.
  3. The author introspects on the concept of enjoyment in their daily life and in reading.
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Little Treats #5

Autoscriptorium • 39 implied HN points • 04 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Books
  1. Consider indulging in small treats to break up daily routines and find moments of joy and relaxation.
  2. Exploring different activities like watercolor painting or using unique products like squalane oil can bring a meditative and refreshing experience.
  3. Discover new interests, like trying out new snacks or equipment at the gym, to add excitement and variety to your routine.

It’s a Media Roundup!

Ironic Sans • 248 implied HN points • 09 May 23
🎭️ Culture Books
  1. David shares his recent media consumption including books, movies, TV shows, and video games.
  2. He enjoyed 'Red Team Blues: A Martin Hench Novel' for its unique protagonist and storyline.
  3. David also explores the disappointments and surprises in other media such as 'The Three-Body Problem' and 'Tetris', offering alternative suggestions and insights.

Sad Poets Society № 11

lettersonbeing • 19 implied HN points • 31 Jan 24
📚 Literature Books
  1. Sad Poets enjoy writing in places with people and noise, finding inspiration in everyday moments
  2. The atmosphere of coffee shops with smoke, aromas, and vulnerability appeals to these poets
  3. There is a unique enchantment in observing and writing in coffee shops

30 Jan 2024 – Windowless skyscrapers and random numbers

Outsider Art • 19 implied HN points • 30 Jan 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Books
  1. Some skyscrapers lack windows and were constructed in the 1960s-1970s to house telecommunications equipment, like 33 Thomas Street in New York City.
  2. Windowless skyscrapers were designed to aid in temperature control and protect against external threats, including withstanding a nuclear blast.
  3. The Brutalist design of windowless skyscrapers like 33 Thomas Street replaced earlier Art Deco telecommunications hubs, ushering in an age of mass surveillance.

Five Links for December 2024

Five Links (and three graphs) by Auren Hoffman • 56 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Books
  1. Innocori,or,orhiri,inorihorihti,orihitothi,MKithohiri,in,Mith,gAinorinhri,o,orNtodihrnt,GnRn,thorbyoro,n,orrith,yh,orm,oro,ory,rinhi,ror,itho,oro,gAoritG,oror,orority,Mi$
  2. orith,y,rothio,roRoith,MIrgh,orno,orith,Inorthy,or,ro,ithir,hnorithrtormg,INNori,orHi,ororhitLot,MiMhihion,INnor,or,orotoyohroh,RndoiroRntgM,hitiRYroNti,$
  3. rNtM,orothbyNorninM,ororyr,gAin$

Why Podcasts Are A Cultural Artefact

The Digital Anthropologist • 19 implied HN points • 24 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Books
  1. Podcasts have become a cultural artefact, deeply embedded in the aesthetic aspect of culture, and are here to stay
  2. The success of a technology within a cultural system is influenced more by norms, behaviors, customs, and traditions than by economic models
  3. The primary reason podcasts are a cultural artefact is their ability for audio storytelling, which is a fundamental human survival mechanism

My Top `X` 2024 Recommendations

Olshansky's Newsletter • 45 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Books
  1. Sharing favorite recommendations can help others discover new books, podcasts, and shows. It's fun to look back and see what you've enjoyed over the years.
  2. Experiences, like traveling and special events, create memorable moments in life. They serve as key highlights that stand out among daily routines.
  3. Staying updated with newsletters and blogs can offer valuable insights and tips for personal growth. Curating a list of favorites keeps you informed and inspired.

Mind the cinematic gender gap

I have thoughts • 19 implied HN points • 24 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Books
  1. There is a gap in recognizing female artistic achievements in the cinematic world, with examples like Greta Gerwig being overlooked for Best Director nominations despite success in filmmaking.
  2. There is a need for more representation of women in the film industry, both behind the camera as directors and in front of the camera as well-written characters.
  3. Artistic consumption can be more intentional to support and promote women's voices and stories, encouraging a shift towards inclusive creative exploration.

Navigate From The Future

From The Future • 19 implied HN points • 23 Jan 24
📚 Literature Books
  1. The power of storytelling helps us understand the real world
  2. The content includes lyrical science fiction stories and historical essays
  3. The project involves daily drafts that lead to the creation of speculative novels

Five Links for November 2023

Five Links (and three graphs) by Auren Hoffman • 162 implied HN points • 03 Nov 23
💼 Business Books
  1. The Techno-Optimist Manifesto by Marc Andreessen highlights the belief in building a better world through technology.
  2. Banking on Status by Julian Lehr discusses the intersection of luxury and software in modern apps.
  3. Travis May's article on The Six Moats of Data Businesses explains what effective moats look like in data companies.

Copyright isn't your friend

The Leftovers • 59 implied HN points • 09 Nov 22
🎭️ Culture Books
  1. Copyright laws can hinder access to culture for those who cannot afford books, and book piracy can actually create more readers.
  2. Making a living solely off writing books is tough for most authors, who often rely on other activities like teaching or editing to sustain themselves.
  3. The publishing industry heavily relies on copyright laws, but the quality of literature may not necessarily suffer if there were fewer books published.

Little Treats #3

Autoscriptorium • 39 implied HN points • 08 Mar 23
🪞 Fashion & Beauty Books
  1. Enjoy small treats to find joy even during busy times. For example, indulge in makeup and skincare products that make you feel put together.
  2. During stressful times, simplify your diet with easy, nutritious foods like dried apricots. Stay hydrated with water.
  3. Nurture yourself with music, shows, and reading material that bring you comfort and escape from stress, like favorite TV series or enriching books.

GRANTED: Better arguments and new books

Granted • 79 implied HN points • 30 Jul 22
🚌 Education Books
  1. Impostor syndrome can be reframed as a growth mindset by acknowledging one's current abilities and the potential for improvement.
  2. Learning how to argue better can strengthen relationships and improve critical thinking skills.
  3. Engaging in small debates can be a valuable opportunity for personal growth and preparation for larger discussions.

Little Treats #2

Autoscriptorium • 39 implied HN points • 24 Feb 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Books
  1. Finding enjoyment in small treats is important for self-care during tough times.
  2. Exploring new products like skincare items and makeup can bring joy and help with self-care.
  3. Discovering new music, books, and art can provide a source of inspiration and pleasure.

Q&A with Shane O'Mara of Brain Pizza

How About This • 130 implied HN points • 17 Jan 24
🚌 Education Books
  1. Shane O'Mara found his passion for neuroscience through reading Carl Sagan's 'Broca's Brain'.
  2. He wrote books to reach a wider audience beyond academia.
  3. Shane O'Mara appreciates the growth and connections Substack has provided him.

Media in Review 2023

Passing Time • 133 implied HN points • 18 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Books
  1. Time is your most valuable asset.
  2. Favorite books include 'Red Rising' and 'Good Reasons for Bad Feelings'.
  3. Enjoyed music from artists like King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard, Jungle, and Geese.

The Screens are the Symptom.

Data: Made Not Found (by danah) • 153 implied HN points • 26 Sep 23
📚 Literature Books
  1. Fahrenheit 451 warns about the dangers of banning books and substituting knowledge with screens.
  2. The book also critiques societal attitudes towards children in the 1950s.
  3. It highlights the importance of not just fighting symptoms, but understanding the structural conditions that enable repression.

Diary #2

Autoscriptorium • 39 implied HN points • 10 Feb 23
📚 Literature Books
  1. Diaries can reveal new insights even if the writer chooses to be vague and suggestive.
  2. The idea of advantageous marriage for women and its historical impact is intriguing for further exploration.
  3. Sharing and discussing preferences with someone can reveal common ground and build connections.

Teenager

Nice Try • 139 implied HN points • 07 May 22
📚 Literature Books
  1. The new novel 'Teenager' will be released on May 10th and has a fun release party on May 8th in NYC. There will be free copies available at the party!
  2. The book features illustrations that add a unique touch, with sketches showing various quirky themes. There are 70 drawings to enjoy throughout the novel.
  3. The story follows two teens in love who go on a cross-country adventure, blending humor and deep emotions. It's described as a wild journey that touches on American culture.

Little Treats

Autoscriptorium • 39 implied HN points • 06 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Books
  1. Enjoy little treats along your journey of self-improvement, they are important.
  2. Find joy in small things like Algonquin School paintings and quality fruits from California.
  3. Discover unique items like Emilio Braga notebooks and engaging books for a well-rounded experience.

NO APOLOGIES

Random Minds by Katherine Brodsky • 112 implied HN points • 24 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Books
  1. Katherine Brodsky has a new book titled 'No Apologies' focusing on freedom of speech in today's society.
  2. The book highlights the importance of open discourse in various fields like science, art, and academia.
  3. Brodsky's book aims to empower individuals to speak up against enforced silence and radical ideas.

It's Material World Week!

Material World • 175 implied HN points • 12 Jun 23
💼 Business Books
  1. Writing and selling a book is a unique process for a journalist, involving a mix of excitement and awkward self-promotion.
  2. The book 'Material World' became even more relevant because of rapidly changing industrial and political landscapes.
  3. The future of technologies like e-fuels and batteries is likely to be diverse, not dominated by a single solution.

Channeling Gore Vidal in a James Bond Book

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 40 implied HN points • 27 Dec 24
📚 Literature Books
  1. The book 'Forever and a Day' has exciting scenes that build tension and keep the reader engaged, including moments where the characters share their backstories.
  2. The story provides a unique perspective on World War II, suggesting a critical view of American involvement and its consequences.
  3. The author, Anthony Horowitz, weaves in political commentary, showing how fictional characters can reflect real-world issues and beliefs.

'Childhood Unplugged' Is on Its Way

The Analog Family • 59 implied HN points • 01 Mar 23
📚 Literature Books
  1. A new book called 'Childhood Unplugged' focuses on getting kids to spend less time on screens. It aims to help children have more real-life experiences and playtime instead.
  2. The author believes that limiting screen time can greatly improve kids' development and relationships. It's not about being against technology but finding a balance.
  3. The book is available for pre-order and is set to be released in July 2023. The author is excited to share her insights and encourage parents to rethink screen use.

Speaking, Turning Off Subscriptions, Book Names | #260

Boundless by Paul Millerd • 92 implied HN points • 16 Mar 24
💼 Business Books
  1. Ultraspeaking can transform how we communicate: practicing speaking without prior thinking can enhance our abilities to convey messages effectively.
  2. Consider one-time gift pricing: Switching from monthly subscriptions to pay-what-feels-right one-time fees can reduce administrative tasks and provide more freedom in supporting content creators.
  3. Book title ideas: Titles like 'Post-Hustle: My Accidental Quest For Good Work' and 'Hardly Working: How I Lost My Edge & Found Good Work' are under consideration for an upcoming book release.

Letter #14: For you and to you

Charles Eisenstein • 3 implied HN points • 05 Dec 25
📚 Literature Books
  1. The author has decided to write another book after years of hesitation. This shows the importance of following our creative impulses even when we doubt ourselves.
  2. The material for the book needs a different way of reading, suggesting that some topics may require a deeper, more thoughtful approach than casual scrolling.
  3. By sharing this decision, the author connects with subscribers, highlighting the relationship between creator and audience in the process of making art.

Two months til Filterworld / a new project

Kyle Chayka Industries • 115 implied HN points • 19 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Books
  1. The book 'Filterworld' by Kyle Chayka aims to explore rejecting digital algorithms and reclaiming humanity.
  2. Engaging with the book 'Filterworld' before its release can help boost its visibility and success.
  3. Kyle Chayka is starting a new project called 'One Thing' to focus on cultivating reader loyalty and curating authentic digital experiences.

Words Unspoken and Other Stories

The Lifeboat • 91 implied HN points • 14 Feb 24
📚 Literature Books
  1. The story portrays a conversation between Felix and Felicia, highlighting how sometimes people drift apart when they realize they have nothing in common beyond a shared environment.
  2. The tale captures the complexity of relationships and the struggle to communicate effectively when faced with changes or divergence in paths.
  3. Communication, shared interests, and understanding are crucial elements in relationships to avoid misunderstandings and maintain connection.

To-be-read piles

The Leftovers • 39 implied HN points • 30 Nov 22
📚 Literature Books
  1. To-be-read piles can reveal more about a person's reading habits than the books they've actually read.
  2. Having a pile of unread books may indicate a preference for reading non-fiction over fiction.
  3. The length of time a book sits in the to-be-read pile can be surprisingly long, up to twelve years in some cases.

Ranking the Narnia books

The Good blog • 39 implied HN points • 29 Nov 24
📚 Literature Books
  1. The Horse and His Boy is a favorite because of its strong character development and relatable experiences, like learning to ride a horse.
  2. Prince Caspian is highly regarded as a great story due to its engaging characters and memorable quotes.
  3. The Last Battle is seen as powerful but also too sad and controversial, making it a complex addition to the series.