The hottest Books Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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The Week In Recommendations 4.19.23

Rich Text • 805 implied HN points • 19 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Books
  1. The newsletter covers transitional shoes, twisty novels, and teen rom-coms.
  2. Book recommendations include 'Bright Young Women' and 'I Have Some Questions For You'.
  3. Podcast and movie recommendations on teen rom-coms and Regency romance.

This Week In Recommendations 4.5.23

Rich Text • 786 implied HN points • 05 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Books
  1. Debut novel 'The One' offers a peek into reality dating shows.
  2. Rax King's book 'Tacky' explores lowbrow culture with humor and depth.
  3. Recommended TV shows like 'Queen's Court' and 'Yellowjackets' offer unique perspectives and engaging storylines.

Time to Catchup!

Design Mom • 786 implied HN points • 30 May 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Books
  1. Newsletter provides updates on personal and professional accomplishments.
  2. Includes news about family events and achievements.
  3. Shares insights on book releases, interviews, and travels.

How Hollywood Hanged Hollywood

Look What You Made Me Do • 452 implied HN points • 14 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Books
  1. Making good horror movies has become harder in today's cinema landscape.
  2. Old Hollywood's decline started when reference points shifted from novels to other movies and TV shows.
  3. The film industry is struggling to produce exciting content, and the blame rests on the creators.
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Poor Charlie’s Almanack is out now

Stripe Press • 569 implied HN points • 05 Dec 23
📚 Literature Books
  1. Charlie Munger's wisdom is being celebrated and shared through a new edition of Poor Charlie's Almanack.
  2. Charlie Munger's impact extends beyond investments, to his family, values, and shared wisdom.
  3. The new edition of the book aims to be faithful to the original, inviting readers to explore various intellectual topics.

Daniel Walker Howe, in memoriam; The Monroe Doctrine; Sontag reconsidered

Unpopular Front • 32 implied HN points • 11 Jan 26
🎭️ Culture Books
  1. A reader-supported model is being pushed, with a modest subscription pitch and a recently released paperback promoted to help fund the work.
  2. Daniel Walker Howe’s death is noted, and his scholarship argues that the Age of Jackson—a mix of authoritarian populism, patronage, and racially charged politics—still casts a long shadow over American life.
  3. Recent media appearances and conversations are highlighted, including televised segments and interviews (like a discussion of Black Pill), with recordings and events available to watch online.

Sometimes Readers Prefer Paperbacks

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 965 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
📚 Literature Books
  1. Many people still enjoy reading physical books like paperbacks. There's something special about holding a book compared to digital formats.
  2. The author highlights key themes in their book, such as social class and upward mobility. These topics are important for understanding today's society.
  3. The author faced challenges with book promotion, including bias in bestseller lists. This shows how difficult it can be to gain recognition in the publishing world.

The Week In Recommendations 10.11.23

Rich Text • 746 implied HN points • 11 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Books
  1. The post features recommendations on new novels, docu-series, podcasts, fashion items, and more.
  2. Guest tastemakers like Aja Frost and Aliza Sir share their reading, watching, listening, and buying recommendations.
  3. The newsletter also delves into personal experiences, cultural observations, and media consumption habits.

Fred VanVleet and the fabric of the NBA

TrueHoop • 746 implied HN points • 10 Mar 23
🎾 Sports Books
  1. Fred VanVleet appreciates some NBA referees for their effort and fairness.
  2. Henry Abbott has been busy working on a book called "BALLISTIC."
  3. VanVleet's words have caught Abbott's attention and sparked his interest in discussing NBA-related topics.

What Shocked Me About the Culture at Yale

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 2765 implied HN points • 21 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Books
  1. Professors at Yale often work well into their eighties and nineties, a notable difference from other environments.
  2. Students at Ivy League schools can exhibit hypocrisy, criticizing certain occupations while secretly pursuing opportunities in them.
  3. Many elite university students fear being seen as who they truly are, choosing to uphold a virtuous image instead.

The Week In Recommendations 4.26.23

Rich Text • 727 implied HN points • 26 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Books
  1. The authors recommend a podcast, movie, dresses, and a bag on sale
  2. They share their thoughts on novels, TV shows, podcasts, and shopping
  3. The post includes a mix of personal experiences, recommendations, and reflections

Things to Call Water

Opaque Hourglass • 359 implied HN points • 04 Feb 24
📚 Literature Books
  1. The post explores amusing names for water, like 'idiot's vodka' and 'tap wine'.
  2. Water is playfully personified in various ways such as 'Dances with Eels' and 'The Artist Formerly Known as Ice'.
  3. The text showcases creative and whimsical descriptions for water that evoke vivid imagery and humor.

The Problem(s) with Men

The Biblioracle Recommends • 707 implied HN points • 16 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Books
  1. Society is facing challenges with the well-being of men, showing disparities in education and mental health.
  2. There are varying issues affecting men, from societal pressures to toxic masculinity in tech moguls.
  3. Reading books can shape empathy and understanding, offering insights into diverse perspectives and relationships.

The Week In Recommendations 6.28.23

Rich Text • 707 implied HN points • 28 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Books
  1. The newsletter discusses essays critiquing overrated things like travel and exercise machines.
  2. The team recommends a novel about a young woman grifter, a podcast, a midi summer dress, and a baseball cap.
  3. They review TV shows like 'Based On A True Story' and 'The Bear', and a podcast called 'Scamanda'.

The Read Max Gift Guide 2024

Read Max • 1132 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
📚 Literature Books
  1. The guide suggests fun and unique gifts like comfy but quirky slides and slippers.
  2. It also recommends books that kids love and even a fancy clock for high-end tastes.
  3. By subscribing, you can get more cool recommendations and support the ongoing mission of the Read Max community.

What people like me mean when we tell you that sad book you're working on "needs to be more uplifting"

How to Glow in the Dark • 479 implied HN points • 08 Jan 24
📚 Literature Books
  1. Feedback to make a sad book more uplifting is not about toxic positivity, but finding hope in the story.
  2. Readers of dark books seek recognition, catharsis, and guidance, not denial or toxic positivity.
  3. Editors advising to make a book 'more uplifting' aim for authors to find the hope in their story to satisfy readers' expectations.

Book Review Contest Winner: Love in the Time of Incarceration

Freddie deBoer • 2351 implied HN points • 08 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Books
  1. The book 'Love in the Time of Incarceration' explores relationships with inmates and challenges stereotypes about prison love.
  2. Online communities for women with incarcerated loved ones provide support and understanding, forming a unique sisterhood.
  3. The book delves into the complexities of incarcerated relationships, showing how love can thrive in challenging circumstances.

The Monday Media Diet with Crispin Burke

Why is this interesting? • 904 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
📚 Literature Books
  1. Consuming a lot of media is essential for staying informed. Many people start their day by checking multiple news sites and apps.
  2. Reading physical books with highlighters can enhance memory and engagement compared to digital reading. People often find physical interaction with print books more satisfying.
  3. Exploring unique travel destinations can be rewarding. Places like Hood River, Oregon, offer great food, hiking, and easy access to different climates.

Best Books, Movies, and Music of the year

Read Max • 922 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Books
  1. The roundup highlights standout books, movies, and music from the past year. It's a great way to discover new favorites.
  2. There are fun and unique awards like 'Best alternate histories' and 'Best song my son loved.' These categories make it more engaging.
  3. Readers are encouraged to interact by sharing recommendations or asking for specific suggestions. It's a community-focused approach.

Diary: (2) John Oakes on Silence

Book Post • 314 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Books
  1. Being in stillness and silence can be beneficial for new ways of thinking and being
  2. Taking time for solitude and quiet can lead to inner reflection and creativity
  3. Moderation in experiencing silence and solitude can have a soothing effect on the mind

Books in the World

The Biblioracle Recommends • 609 implied HN points • 06 Aug 23
📚 Literature Books
  1. Free books can be found in unexpected places like airports and hotels.
  2. There's a vast collection of human experience available through books left behind by others.
  3. Consider sharing books with specific people who will appreciate them rather than keeping them unused.

Spring Cleaning for the Mind

Holodoxa • 199 implied HN points • 27 Mar 24
📚 Literature Books
  1. The start of 2024 has been eventful domestically, economically strong in the US, and characterized by international chaos.
  2. Reading 75 books this year is a goal, with a bias towards nonfiction titles and a focus on literary reviews.
  3. Engaging with podcasts continues to be a significant part of consumption, with an emphasis on diverse shows and episodes for various interests.

SITREP

THREE SEVEN MAFIA • 1139 implied HN points • 31 May 23
📚 Literature Books
  1. Upcoming MEET-UP in Chicago on 6/9/2023 may have changes; stay tuned for updates.
  2. Exciting developments in content creation with Season 2 of MINDPHASER podcast and 7HOMAS TV channel in progress.
  3. Dedicated time on book manuscripts, including the third installment of the STEELSTORM series and a book on international jurisprudence.

The Ishiguro-Waits Edition

Why is this interesting? • 241 implied HN points • 06 Aug 25
📚 Literature Books
  1. Kazuo Ishiguro was inspired to improve his book after hearing Tom Waits' song 'Ruby's Arms.' It shows how music can impact writing and creativity.
  2. Ishiguro thought his manuscript for 'The Remains of the Day' was done before the song inspired him to change it. This highlights the importance of revisiting and editing one's work.
  3. Winning the Booker Prize and Nobel Prize shows that the extra effort can lead to great recognition and success in writing. Persistence can pay off big time.

An online version of Da Vinci's journal?

The Novelleist • 336 implied HN points • 20 Jun 25
📚 Literature Books
  1. Research is a fun way to spend time. It helps to take notes and explore different ideas.
  2. Sharing research notes online is a new way to connect with others and share thoughts.
  3. There are upcoming events where people can discuss books and topics with others in the community.

⬜ Ignore the ugly book cover

One Thing • 296 implied HN points • 04 Feb 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Books
  1. The memoir of Venice highlighted in the post is engaging, despite its unattractive book cover.
  2. The CEO of Daunt Books emphasizes curation, allowing each store's staff to dictate book displays, leading to unique and engaging selections.
  3. Exploring Venice through the lens of 'The Politics of Washing' provides insights into daily life, history, and cultural complexities, showcasing the beauty and challenges of the city.

The Monday Media Diet with Emanuel Derman

Why is this interesting? • 723 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
📚 Literature Books
  1. Emanuel Derman has had a diverse career, changing paths from theoretical physics to finance and teaching, showing how one can blend different interests into a fulfilling life.
  2. He prefers reading over other media like podcasts, which reflects a desire for control over his pace. His media diet includes mainstream newspapers, literary journals, and financial newsletters, focusing on written content.
  3. Derman highlights the importance of poetry and fiction in his reading, and emphasizes a personal connection to understanding his roots through his writing.

Whatever happened

Austin Kleon • 1938 implied HN points • 16 Sep 22
🎭️ Culture Books
  1. Nostalgia can be comforting, so it's okay to revisit old books and memories when things get tough.
  2. It's fun to discover new and interesting art and media, like books and podcasts, that bring inspiration and joy.
  3. Sharing experiences and recommendations can help build community and keep creativity flowing.

Zen Bones: The Life & Legacy of Alan Watts

Tripsitter • 139 implied HN points • 26 Apr 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Books
  1. Alan Watts was a prolific writer and philosopher who translated Eastern philosophical ideas for a Western audience, influencing many with his work.
  2. Watts believed in the philosophy of not taking life too seriously, embracing the idea that there are no failures or successes, just experiences.
  3. He integrated ideas from Buddhism, Taoism, and other philosophies, advocating for a relaxed approach to enlightenment and addressing Western problems like fear of meaninglessness.

A Special Message For My Favourite Subscribers

The Ruffian • 30 implied HN points • 13 Jan 26
📚 Literature Books
  1. A paperback edition of 'John & Paul' is being announced.
  2. This newsletter edition is reserved exclusively for Founding Member (God Tier) subscribers.
  3. Readers are prompted to upgrade to the Founding Member plan or sign in if they already subscribe to access this content.

Big Money, Elites, San Francisco

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 2083 implied HN points • 23 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Books
  1. Rob Henderson is making TV and podcast appearances discussing topics like elites, hidden hierarchies, and luxury beliefs.
  2. Join Rob Henderson at book events in San Francisco on March 6 and March 7 to discuss his book _Troubled_.
  3. Listen to Rob Henderson on various podcasts like Modern Wisdom and YOUR WELCOME, sharing insights on diverse topics including genetic tests and reinventing oneself.

The Monday Media Diet with Joost Joossen

Why is this interesting? • 663 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Books
  1. Joost Joossen uses photography as a way to practice mindfulness and boost his creativity. He believes in the power of daily photography to enhance well-being.
  2. Podcasts are a big part of Joost's media diet, helping him dig deeper into important topics without the stress of breaking news. He enjoys shows that cover culture, politics, and philosophy.
  3. He encourages everyone to visit bookstores and libraries, viewing them as essential places for learning and personal growth.

Single Ladies, Paying on Dates, Tinder Matching

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 2121 implied HN points • 14 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Books
  1. Sociometric status, like respect and admiration from peers, can influence well-being more than socioeconomic status, even for introverted individuals
  2. The family structure is noted as a hindrance to central control of social processes in historical Marxist literature. Engels initially included undermining family bonds in the Communist Manifesto draft
  3. Women in their twenties using Tinder are more likely to swipe right for a man with a master's degree compared to one with a bachelor's degree