LOOK / LISTEN

Our monthly round up of good books, podcasts & series

WHAT WE'RE READING

A Harvest of Thorns by Corban Addison

A garment factory burns to rubble in Bangladesh, immortalised by one shocking image of a young girl with a mask of fabric bearing the label of America’s largest retailer. A year after the media frenzy, disgraced journalist Joshua Griswold receives an anonymous tip, presenting him with the irresistible opportunity to expose the retailer, and redeem his own reputation.

This book brilliantly uncovers the horrors of exploitation of the fast-fashion industry.

Why Woo-Woo Works

During his career in the pharmaceutical industry, Hamilton was fascinated by the placebo effect, causing him to dive deeper into studying the mind-body connection. In his 11th book on similar subjects, he dissects the surprising science behind some of the most controversial alternative healing practices. Why Woo-Woo Works includes chapters on reiki, meditation, crystals and the law of attraction, and thoroughly demystifies them with extensive scientific research all listed in the bibliography.

WHAT WE'RE LISTENING TO

Dairy of a CEO

Hosted by entrepreneur, speaker, investor and author Steven Bartlett, this podcast offers an unfiltered odyssey through profound conversations with some of the globe's most influential figures, scholars and visionaries. Steven delves into his guests’ past experiences and has a wonderful ability to showcase their personalities as he engages and entices them to open up and share with an honesty rarely glimpsed in conventional interviews.

One of our favourite episodes so far is Steven’s discussion with musician, artist and educational visionary will.i.am. The episode is titled will.i.am Opens Up: Guilt, Shame, Depression, Creativity & ADHD!

A History of Rock Music in 500 Songs

This podcast traces rock music from 1938 and takes an in-depth look at 500 pivotal songs that defined and shaped the genre. If you love music and the intricacies and inspirations behind songs, this is for you. Tons of research goes into every episode and gives listeners interesting insights into the artists and how each song developed. It is also a great way to discover new music.

Our favourite episode is number 76: Stagger Lee by Lloyd Price

WHAT WE'RE WATCHING

The Diplomat

Kate Wyler (Keri Russell) faces an unexpected shift in her diplomatic career when the White House redirects her from Afghanistan to London. A seasoned US diplomat accustomed to operating in conflict zones, Kate's new role as the US ambassador to the UK presents her with unfamiliar challenges, forcing her to step into a more formal and high-profile position to navigate the tectonic implications of this change while striving to make a positive impact on the world stage.

Genre: Drama

Where to watch: Netflix

Rotten Tomatoes rating: 83%

Ted Lasso

American college football coach Ted Lasso finds himself in London, taking the reins of AFC Richmond, a struggling English Premier League soccer team. While coaching soccer may not seem like a natural fit for Ted, his unwavering optimism and down-home charm prove to be just what AFC Richmond needs, even though the team's owner hired him as part of a revenge plot against her ex.

Genre: Comedy Drama

Where to watch: Apple TV

Rotten Tomatoes rating: 90%