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Like many people who picked up Be Your Own Bestie, I first discovered Misha Brown through his videos online. What immediately stood out to me was his ability to be completely himself while confidently standing up to bullies. That kind of authenticity takes courage, especially for those of us who tend to be people pleasers.
As someone who struggles with worrying about whether others are upset with me, a lot of what Misha talks about resonated deeply. It took me a long time to realize that other peopleโs reactions are not always my responsibility, and hearing that message reinforced in such an encouraging way felt both validating and empowering.
Part memoir, part self-help, and full of Mishaโs signature sass, humor, and heartfelt honesty, it was an easy and quick read. Throughout the book he expands on many of the stories and moments that made his social media videos so popular, sharing the experiences and lessons behind them.
I listened to the audiobook version, which Misha narrates himself, and Iโm so glad I did. Thereโs something special about hearing an author tell their own story, and his energy and personality come through beautifully. I especially loved the way he talks about his relationship with his mom. As someone who also calls their mom when things go right, wrong or somewhere in between,I completely related.
At its heart, this book is a reminder to do the work. To put in the effort to heal, grow, and learn to treat yourself with the same kindness you give everyone else.
Be Your Own Bestie is a ray of sunshine filled with positivity, encouragement, and plenty of laughs. If youโre on a journey of self-discovery or looking for a motivating and uplifting self-improvement read, this is absolutely one to add to your list, even if youโre discovering Misha for the first time
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Okay, I was not expecting to be this obsessed with a book about shipwrecks, but here we are. David Gibbins absolutely nailed it with A History of the World in Twelve Shipwrecks. Itโs like National Treasure met Master and Commander and had a book babyโwith Gibbins playing the role of the charming professor who also happens to scuba dive in his spare time. (Yes, he really dove to some of these wrecks himself. The man is basically Indiana Jones in a wetsuit.)
Each chapter takes a shipwreck and uses it as a portal into world historyโBronze Age trade, Viking raids, the freakinโ Industrial Revolution, and even Nazi U-boats. And it should be dry, right? Like, this book has no business being this good. Itโs fact-dense, loaded with historical details, and somehow still manages to be unputdownable.
What I really loved is how personal it felt. Gibbins doesnโt just list dates and sunken hullsโhe brings us along for the dive. You feel the chill of the water, the adrenaline of discovery, and the thrill of connecting a rusted sword or a hull full of brass pins back to the rise and fall of civilizations.
So if youโre into history, adventure, archaeology, or just want to read something that makes you smarter and cooler at dinner parties, this book is your new favorite.
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As an older millennial, I vividly remember receiving my first Nintendo NES system. What I didnโt realize at the time was that my parents were secretly taking the consoleโand Super Mario Bros.โout every night to play, then hiding it back in the closet until Christmas morning.
My mother jokingly calls herself an vid-diot and loves games of all kinds. Card games, board games, video games, sheโs down to play. She was the kind of mom who, if you said, โHey Mom, Iโm on level eight. Iโm almost at Bowserโs castle. I have 99 lives and a full inventoryโcan you please leave the TV on for me?โโthere was a 50/50 chance that youโd either wake up to find sheโd beaten the game, or that the TV was still on, patiently waiting for you to finish. If you asked my dad the same thing, heโd likely get confused and accidentally turn the TV off. It was never maliciousโhe just never really got video games the way my mom did.
Good Game, No Rematch is both a history of video games and a subtle, hilarious biography of every awkward millennial adult trying to navigate modern life. One of my favorite quotes from the book is: โTry being a people-pleaser who doesnโt understand how to peopleโโa line that perfectly encapsulates my life. The book traces the evolution of video games from the perspective of the millennial generation, for whom the NES was a defining piece of childhood. Many books on video game history attempt to cram too much into one volume. While that can be ambitious, it often makes the narrative overwhelming or dry. This book smartly narrows its focus, making the material engaging and accessible throughout.
Before reading this, I didnโt know much about Mike Drucker. Iโm not a huge TV person, so I hadnโt connected his name to the well-known shows heโs written for. But now, Iโm off to explore his body of work. His writing is sharp, witty, and genuinely funnyโit makes you feel like you want to hang out with him. (Well, sort ofโIโm kind of agoraphobic and not particularly fond of leaving the house.)
In any case, if you grew up playing video games, love reading, and find comfort in shared nostalgiaโor youโre just trying to survive adulthood as an elder millennialโthis book is absolutely for you.
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Sisters in Science is an extraordinary narrative that sheds light on the lives of four remarkable womenโHedwig Kohn, Lise Meitner, Hertha Sponer, and Hildegard Stรผcklenโwho defied the oppressive forces of Nazi Germany to leave a lasting impact on the world of science. Olivia Campbell offers a deeply researched and compelling account of their experiences, blending historical detail with a keen sense of storytelling.
This book takes readers into the tumultuous period of World War II, a time when the Nazi regime systematically persecuted individuals based on their religion, ethnicity, and political ideologies. For these four womenโbrilliant physicists and chemistsโthe stakes were particularly high. They faced not only the danger of persecution but also the erasure of their scientific contributions in a field dominated by men.
โข Hedwig Kohn found refuge in Sweden, where she was able to continue her work in physics despite the challenges of exile.
โข Lise Meitner, co-discoverer of nuclear fission, fled to Sweden and then to the United States, where her groundbreaking research would lay the foundation for future discoveries in atomic science.
โข Hertha Sponer made her way to the United States and became one of the first female professors at Duke University, where her contributions to molecular physics broke barriers for women in academia.
โข Hildegard Stรผcklen, though less known, played a vital role in advancing the fields of physical chemistry and spectroscopy during her exile.
What makes Sisters in Science truly stand out is its balance between detailed historical context and personal stories. Campbell doesnโt just focus on the challenges these women faced; she also celebrates their triumphs and enduring legacies. Their exile wasnโt just a flight for survivalโit was a testament to their resilience and dedication to their work.
The bookโs pacing is excellent, weaving historical events with the personal journeys of each scientist. Olivia Campbellโs meticulous research is evident in every chapter, but she manages to avoid making the narrative feel heavy or overly academic. Instead, readers are invited to feel the urgency, despair, hope, and triumph these women experienced as they rebuilt their lives and careers in foreign lands.
What resonates most is the sheer humanity of their stories. These women were not just scientists; they were pioneers who refused to let an oppressive regime dictate their destinies. Their determination to pursue truth and knowledge, even in the face of unimaginable odds, is deeply inspiring.
Campbell also brings attention to an important issue: the lack of recognition for womenโs contributions in science. While these four women achieved remarkable feats, their names are often overshadowed by their male contemporaries. This book is a much-needed acknowledgment of their place in history and a reminder of how far weโve comeโand how far we still have to goโin achieving gender equality in STEM fields.
The writing is accessible yet rich in detail, making Sisters in Science an ideal read for both casual readers and those with a deep interest in history, science, or womenโs studies. The inclusion of photographs, letters, and archival material adds another layer of authenticity and depth, helping readers connect with the women on a more personal level.
I cannot recommend Sisters in Science highly enough. It is a powerful and inspiring reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the vital role of women in shaping our understanding of the world. Whether youโre a history enthusiast, a science lover, or someone simply looking for an inspiring read, this book will leave you enriched and in awe of the incredible resilience and brilliance of these women.
A special thank you to Olivia Campbell, NetGalley, and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the opportunity to read this incredible book. Itโs a work that will stay with me for a long time.
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The Book of Murder by Matt Murphy is a must-read for all true crime junkies out there. Law and forensic investigation have always fascinated me, and Murphyโs extensive experience with high-profile cases makes this book an absolute page-turner. You might recognize his nameโMurphy was the prosecutor who put Dirty John behind bars, as well as Skylar Deleon and Rodney Alcala. Others may know him as a frequent guest on 20/20 or Good Morning America.
This book is part autobiography, part dos and donโts of being a prosecutor, and part history of the horrific cases Murphy has worked on. Heโs brutally honest about the toll his work took on his mental health, personal life, and relationships. His vulnerability and the regrets that came with throwing his entire life into his career add a raw and personal element to the story. Murphy gives readers an inside look at the emotional and mental strain of relentlessly fighting for justice.
I hesitate to call this an โenjoyableโ read because the nature of the crimes Murphy prosecuted is so horrific but once I started reading, I was hookedโtotally invested and unable to stop. His ability to bring criminals to justice is riveting, and his strong, clear voice makes him a master storyteller. If youโre a diehard true crime fan, you do not want to pass this one up. Even if true crime isnโt your usual go-to, this book is still worth diving into.
Murphy also shows a great deal of respect for his colleagues, even those on the other side of the courtroom. Often, you hear about bad blood between prosecutors and defense attorneys, but he seems to have genuine admiration for everyone involved in the processโfrom judges to fellow prosecutors and even defense attorneys.
I found myself constantly Googling the names, trying to put faces to the victims, heroes, and perpetrators alike. It felt like being in a twilight zoneโtotally invested and impossible to deter. This book offers an intense, all-consuming read, providing a gripping and insightful view into the life of a prosecutor who dedicated himself to seeking justice. Highly recommend!
As always, I encourage you to read this one for yourself and formulate your own opinion. Thank you to the author Matt Murphy, the publisher Hyperion Ave and NetGalley for the ARC copy of this book!
On sale now, you can click here for the book, or HERE for the author narrated audio book (highly recommend!)
Itโs safe to say that I added this book to my TBR as soon as I saw it was published. I practically grew up with Gilmore GirlsโRory and I are only a year apart in the show, and as a fellow bookworm, I strongly identified with her. (Not so much watching the show as an adult, but that’s another story/rant.) Having already devoured Lauren Grahamโs book a few years ago, I was excited to see a side of the show from the perspective of the iconic Emily Gilmore. To say I didnโt fully appreciate who Kelly Bishop was and what she meant to the world of theater and performing arts is an understatement. Also, how did I forget she was Baby’s mom?! I thought it was pretty cool that she was actually supposed to have a small role in Dirty Dancing, but when she got there, the actress they hired to play Marjorie Houseman was let go and she was offered the role.
When youโre attached to a character, especially one from a show or movie that has been so defining in your life, itโs hard to see them as anything else. I was particularly eager to get to the part of the book where Kelly discusses Gilmore Girls. However, I soon realized that she had lived an incredibly rich and fascinating life long before the show, which was just as compelling to read about. Kelly is upfront and brutally honest, admitting to mistakes and experiences that Emily would never have dreamed of.
When we finally reached the portion of the book dedicated to Gilmore Girlsโwhat I consider to be the โmeatyโ partโit was heartwarming to hear how she talks about Alexis Bledel and Lauren Graham. Itโs clear that although they were a TV family, they remain a real family to her. Her description of the kindness shown to her by Ed Hermanโs wife in his final days brought tears to my eyes. I was also delighted to find out that some of my favorite Emily Gilmore scenes, such as when she tears down Shira Huntsberger and has a meltdown over Trixโs funeral arrangements, are also Kellyโs favorites.
This book is a must-read for all Gilmore Girls fans. Iโm truly blown away by the life this amazing woman has lived. I grappled with whether to get the audio book or a hard copy and ended up choosing the audio book. It felt like Emily Gilmore was reading to me the entire time, and it was incredibly relaxing to listen to. I will eventually get a physical copy as a shelf trophyโitโs just too good not to. Kelly Bishop is an incredible lady, and Iโm so glad she decided to share her life with us. Some of the things Kelly did in her life are so un-Emily-like that I couldnโt help but laugh, imagining how Emily would react if she knew just how scandalous the actress playing her really was!
On sale now, you can grab your physical copy here or the digital copy here!
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Nathalia Holt, a New York Times bestselling author renowned for uncovering untold stories, delivers another gem with Wise Gals: The Spies Who Built the CIA and Changed the Future of Espionage. Diving into the hidden history of the CIA’s early days, the book introduces readers to four extraordinary womenโAdelaide Hawkins, Mary Hutchison, Eloise Page, and Elizabeth Sudmeierโwho defied societal norms to play pivotal roles in the Agency’s formation and operations.
These aren’t your average femme fatales from spy novels or the stereotypical honey traps that normally come to mind when you think about female spies. No, these women are intellectual powerhouses with nerves of steel. Their remarkable stories span from World War II through the Cold War era, touching on ongoing international crises. In what was described as a “male, pale, and Yale” dominated workspace, Adelaide’s cryptographic genius, Mary’s diplomatic skills, Elizabeth’s daring field intelligence, and Eloise’s groundbreaking scientific contributions all shine through.
What sets this book apart is Holt’s meticulous research, evident on every page. Drawing from first-hand interviews and declassified documents, Holt doesn’t give readers a James Bond-esque narrative but instead offers a grounded account of these women’s determination and significant contributions. This includes crucial roles in predicting the Soviet Union’s early development of atomic capabilities and intelligence gathering that contributed to the Cuban missile crisis.
However, the book doesn’t shy away from the grim realities these extraordinary women faced, particularly their battles for equal pay and recognition in a notoriously misogynistic environment. A poignant example is Jane Burrell, another key figure who has yet to receive a star on the CIA’s Memorial Wallโan oversight that Holt brings into focus.
Wise Gals serves as a significant addition to both historical non-fiction and discussions about the challenges and triumphs of women in the workforce. Reading it leaves you with a complicated mix of pride for these women’s achievements and frustration at the societal barriers they had to fight. Itโs a fight many continue to this day. While the book may not offer high-octane thrills, it provides a long-overdue homage to these unsung heroines of American history. Whether you’re interested in untold stories of women instrumental to our country’s security or simply a well-crafted narrative, this book is an excellent read.
A huge thank you to the author Nathalia Holt not only for an advanced copy of this book, but for shedding light on these crucial but long-overlooked narratives. And thank you to the publisher Penguin and NetGalley for the ARC copy of this book.
As always, I encourage you to read this one for yourself and formulate your own opinion.
On sale now, you can get your copy by clicking Here
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“Behold the Monster” by Jillian Lauren is a chilling and comprehensive account of the life of Samuel Little, touted as the most prolific serial killer in history. As an avid reader of true crime literature and a regular listener of true crime podcasts, I was taken aback by my unfamiliarity with Sam Hill, a testament to Lauren’s extensive research and deft storytelling.
Lauren skillfully weaves together various narratives, including her conversations with Sam Hill during his incarceration, trial transcripts, and deeply emotional interviews with the victims’ family members. These diverse narrative threads form a haunting tapestry that offers readers a glimpse into the lives of Little’s victims and their tragic last moments.
“Behold the Monster” delves into disturbing territories as it unfurls the life of Sam Little. From his shocking birth and unsettling upbringing to his harrowing reunion with his biological mother, every aspect of his life seems steeped in horror. These unnerving details might make the book a difficult read for some. For me, it was an overwhelming journey through the macabre details of his heinous acts.
The strength of the book lies in its empathetic storytelling. Lauren gives voices to the victims, interviewing their family members to ensure that their memories endure. It’s heartening to witness the resilience of the four women who escaped Little’s clutches, their stories forming a ray of hope in this dark narrative.
I hardly ever put trigger warnings on my reviews especially true crime books. More than likely if youโre reading a true crime book, you know that youโre going to read some messed up stuff. However, readers should be forewarned that the book contains graphic descriptions that might trigger sensitivities. From violence to deep-seated trauma, if there’s a potential trigger, it’s likely present in this book. Despite its disturbing content, the book is informative, engaging, and at times it is as difficult to put down as it is to read.
In comparison to other true crime books like “I’ll Be Gone in the Dark” which detail the exhaustive hunt for the criminal, “Behold the Monster” might come off as excessive in its detailing of Little’s gruesome crimes. Personally, I would have appreciated more insight into the trial proceedings and the evidentiary process.
Jillian Lauren’s “Behold the Monster” is a definitive account of Samuel Little’s life, making it a must-read for true crime aficionados. However, its graphic content makes it a tough read at times. I’d give it a 3.5 out of 5. I was hoping for more courtroom drama and investigative details and less graphic depiction of his horrific deeds.
For those interested in the history, mystery, and thriller genres or in historical biographies and memoirs, this book is a crucial addition to the true crime non-fiction landscape. But proceed with caution: this book pulls no punches when it comes to the brutal reality of Samuel Little’s crimes.
As always, I encourage you to read this book and form your own opinions and thoughts as I have mine.
I had to take a break from some of the romance Iโve been reading lately, and I donโt think that there is anything less romantic than some true crime.
We first meet Paul Holes in Iโll Be Gone In the Dark, the CSI who became as obsessed with GSK as Michelle did. (Iโm actually re-reading this now, I should have done it before I picked up Unmasked.) Paul takes us through his life, how his career ruined his marriage, finding new love, and what is was like to tackle some of the most notorious cold cases weโve ever seen.
It was extremely interesting to see the evolution of genetic and DNA testing as used for investigation. I wish there was more on some of his most memorable cases (there was a lot about GSK, maybe because it was his longest running cold case), but the book was full of information.
Be warned, this isnโt for the faint of heart or those who arenโt accustomed to reading True Crime. Holes doesnโt pull any punches with his descriptions.
Thank you so much to the author and @celadon for the ARC copy of this book.
Please note that this post may contain affiliate links, which are no cost to you but do give me a small payout if you choose to purchase via the link on the page.
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Rating: 4 out of 5.
The Rundown: An indepth look at the history of ocean travel as told through the stories of the women who went to sea.
Written by Sian Evans, Published 2021
I have always been enamored with history, so I’m always looking for a good historical book that isn’t too dry. Sian Evans does a wonderful job of taking us on a journey through history via the monumental innovation of transatlantic cruising.
We begin in the roaring ’20s and move through the first world war, the depression that followed, the second world war, the aftermath, and finally the death of crossing the Atlantic due to the advancement of air travel. Women were not historically welcome on ships, but at the end of WWII, there was a shortage of men in Great Britain, where many of the women in this book hail from. Not to mention that many women were galvanized into the workforce when their husbands, brothers, and fathers went to war. Many were reluctant to give up the freedom they had achieved by earning a paycheck. And when the sea called, they answered.
We meet the “unskinable” Violet Jessop, who was a stewardess on the Olympic, Titanic, and Britannic when they were damaged. The Olympic struck another ship, no fatalities, the Titanic, an iceberg (and we all know what happened there, ) and the Britannic when it was acting as a hospital ship and was sunk with 30 fatalities. Her stories are featured prominently through the book, as she published a memoir.
While Jessop was up working mostly with the first and second-class passengers, we also hear the story of Maria Riffelberger, who worked down in steerage with the 3rd class passengers, helping usher them into their new lives as American citizens. Many times she accompanied minors making the perilous journey across the vast ocean.
We also meet many women of leisure, refugees of the 2nd world war, political figures, and even the story of an Irish immigrant seeking a new life in America, whose son soars to the top of American politics.
All in all, I found this a very enjoyable, informative, and easy listen. It felt almost like I was taking a guided tour through the golden age of ocean travel. Evans was able to tell a story while keeping the reader engaged on what could be a dull topic. Her knack for storytelling while being descriptive and informative is much appreciated. A big thanks to the author, NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for providing a copy for my review.
This audiobook was provided by NetGalley and Macmillan Audio free in exchange for my review.
Feed The Bookworm 