LOOK / LISTEN

Our monthly round-up of good books, podcasts, movies and series.

WHAT WE'RE READING

Ambition Monster: A Memoir by Jennifer Romolini

For years, Romolini climbed the professional ladder to achieve high-profile success, a soughtafter C-suite position, and a celebrated book, all while presenting a picture-perfect life with her husband and child in Los Angeles. Yet, beneath this veneer, she was unravelling. Written with wit and self-deprecation, Ambition Monster examines workaholism, the addictive nature of achievement, and the haunting effects of childhood trauma. This anti-girlboss tale offers a candid critique of the modern rat race and the cost of capitalism, making it a must-read for overachievers and those driven by their past traumas. Romolini's story is a timely deconstruction of the American Dream, inspiring readers to always bet on themselves.

Goodreads score: 4.08/5

Our Kind of Game by Johanna Copeland

A serpentine suspense tale that delves into the violence men inflict on women, women's reclamation of their identities, and the haunting effects on their children. In 2019, Stella Parker’s perfect life in Washington, D.C., unravels when her neighbour Gwen reveals a dark secret from Stella's past. Flashback to 1987, Julie Waits dreams of cheerleading to escape her tumultuous home life. As Stella investigates Gwen's claims, a chilling connection between her and Julie emerges. This gripping novel is packed with twists and explores women's struggles for control and the lasting impact of violence.

Goodreads score: 3.80/5

WHERE WE'RE TUNED IN

Finally! A Show

This podcast’s full title is Finally! A Show About Women That Isn’t Just a Thinly Veiled Aspirational Nightmare, breaking away from typical portrayals of women by focusing on the real, unfiltered details of their daily lives. Each episode features a different woman sharing her experiences and worldview, whether she's a Pike’s Fish Market worker who’s also a folk singer, an Instagram-famous octogenarian, or Grammy-nominated artist Valerie June. The podcast ditches the traditional host format, allowing the women's stories to shine on their own, making it a compelling and authentic listen.

Shell Game

Journalist Evan Ratliff takes on the overwhelming buzz around artificial intelligence by experimenting with publicly available AI tools to uncover their limitations. Through his explorations, Ratliff seeks to reclaim a sense of control in a rapidly changing tech landscape. While the series may have its uneven moments, the core of Ratliff’s journey – pushing back against the AI hype and defending human experience – makes for an engaging and thought-provoking listen.

WHAT WE'RE WATCHING

The White Lotus

This sharp social satire series with two seasons follows the chaotic exploits of both guests and employees of the fictional White Lotus resort chain. Over the course of a seemingly idyllic week, vacationers seek relaxation and rejuvenation, but as days pass, darker complexities and dysfunctions emerge among the picture-perfect travellers and the hotel's cheerful staff. With its biting humour, striking cinematography and intricate character dynamics, The White Lotus offers a captivating glimpse into the darker side of paradise.

Tomatometer: 90%

The Bikeriders

After a fateful meeting at a local bar, the strong-willed Kathy (Jodie Comer) finds herself irresistibly drawn to Benny (Austin Butler), the latest recruit of the Midwestern motorcycle club, The Vandals, led by the enigmatic Johnny (Tom Hardy). As the country and the club evolve, what begins as a haven for local outsiders turns into a perilous underworld of violence. Benny faces a gripping dilemma: choose between his love for Kathy and his loyalty to the club. This film promises an intense journey through love, loyalty, and the spirit of cultural transformation.

Tomatometer: 80%