Books & Looks

You think you know the story of Prohibition, but do you know the women behind it all? In "Firebrands", Gioia Diliberto uncovers the hidden history of four trailblazing women who fought for and against Prohibition. From the fierce ambition of Mabel Walker Willebrandt to the unlikely activism of society figure Pauline Sabin, these women wielded unprecedented power and influence. Discover how their intertwined lives and rivalries shaped an era and rewrote the rules for women in politics. Links: "Firebrands" Book: https://amzn.to/4ixbVSm Gioia Diliberto Website: https://gioiadiliberto.com/ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/LadNPaLpkig _ Produced by Podcast Studio X. Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

Author Mary Grand transports readers to the Isle of Wight in her captivating Christmas mystery, "A Christmas Murder." In this episode, Mary shares her journey to becoming a published author in her 50s and reveals the real-life inspirations behind her novel's vivid settings. Discover the secrets of crafting gripping whodunits and immerse yourself in the rich history and atmosphere of this enchanting British isle. Links: "A Christmas Murder" Book: https://amzn.to/4g6gz8m Mary Grand Website: https://marygrand.net/ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Y0S4T9vQo9E _ Produced by Podcast Studio X. Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

Why settle for generic "best book" lists this holiday season? In this episode, you'll get my personal take on the most engaging, surprising and thought-provoking books from a year of author interviews. Uncover hidden gems like the stranger-than-fiction "Eden Undone" by Abbott Kaler and be inspired by "The Enigma Girls" by Candace Fleming. These aren't your typical recommendations - but they just might become your new favorites. _ Produced by Podcast Studio X. Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

Ever wondered what it would be like to tour Europe with a pet rhino? In this episode, author Jillian Forsberg shares the unbelievable true story behind her novel The Rhino Keeper. Discover the joys, challenges, and surprising insights Forsberg gleaned while researching and writing this tale of interspecies friendship that will make you see rhinos in a whole new light. Links: "The Rhino Keeper" Book: https://amzn.to/419BG5b Jillian Forsberg Website: https://www.jillianforsberg.com/ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/QzeimIw9gLQ _ Produced by Podcast Studio X. Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

Two-thirds of American children grow up without knowing how to read well. Is your child's school setting them up for failure? Irene Daria, author of "I Didn't Believe Him," shares her shocking discovery of how schools are using disproven methods to teach reading. Learn why millions of kids are being falsely labeled as "learning disabled" and what you can do to protect your child's potential. Links: "I Didn't Believe Him" Book: https://amzn.to/4fS1bMd Ireve Daria Website: https://www.stepstoreading.com/ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/jZdDG2JXFFU _ Produced by Podcast Studio X. Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

Looking for your next unputdownable read? Dive into "Eden Undone," Abbott Kahler's meticulously researched true adventure saga of a utopian experiment gone horribly wrong in the Galapagos Islands. In this episode, Kahler shares the most shocking twists, juiciest scandals, and profound insights from her years investigating this stranger-than-fiction story. Whether you're fascinated by the dark side of human nature or just love a gripping historical yarn, you'll find "Eden Undone" impossible to resist. Hear how Kahler brought this lost piece of history to vivid life. Links: "Eden Undone" Book: https://amzn.to/48H4Gmx Abbott Kahler Website: https://www.abbottkahler.com/ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/fEwxWCtFuag _ Produced by Podcast Studio X. Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

Hop in the backseat for a wild ride through Chicago's Taxi Wars with author Anne Morrissy! Her book "Street Fight" is your GPS to a time when hailing a cab meant risking your life. You'll learn the secrets behind the cutthroat competition, the innovations that shaped the taxi industry, and the larger-than-life personalities who fought for control. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for an electrifying true tale, this episode will keep you on the edge of your seat. Links: "Street Fight" Book: https://amzn.to/3NTndlM Anne Morrissy Website: https://annemorrissy.com/ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/OXpzDDpmIwE _ Produced by Podcast Studio X. Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

As a parent or educator, are you always on the lookout for books that make learning fun? Look no further than Sarah Albee's imaginative non-fiction works. In this episode, Albee shares her secrets for transforming complex subjects into engaging stories that respect children's intelligence. From hands-on science experiments to little-known historical anecdotes, Albee's books offer endless opportunities for kids to explore the world around them. Tune in for practical tips on fostering a love of reading and discovery in the young people in your life. Links: "Bounce!: A Scientific History of Rubber" Book: https://amzn.to/4eYJLxC Sarah Albee Website: https://sarahalbeebooks.com/ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/BWTNYC7O4q4 _ Produced by Podcast Studio X. Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

In this eye-opening interview, author Laura Essay discusses her new legal novel "Side Effects Are Minimal" and shares insights from her years of research into the opioid epidemic. Essay, a former attorney, delves into the complexities of the crisis, the roles of various actors, and the importance of raising awareness through fiction. Discover the real-life inspirations behind Essay's gripping story and characters. Links: "Side Effects Are Minimal" Book: https://amzn.to/40dfx5q Laura Essay Website: https://lauraessay.com/ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ud88u0DM3u0 _ Produced by Podcast Studio X. Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

Looking for your next immersive historical read? Tune in as Madeline Martin takes you behind the scenes of "The Booklover's Library", a novel Blaine DeSantis calls "almost more history than fiction." You'll hear how Martin's research shaped vivid characters and moving themes of motherhood, community, and the solace of stories in troubled times. Leave inspired to seek out the books that speak to your soul. Links: "The Booklover's Library" Book: https://amzn.to/3NrLO0M Madeline Martin Website: https://madelinemartin.com/ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ud88u0DM3u0 _ Produced by Podcast Studio X. Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

Historian Sandra Bonura shares the fascinating story of Claus Spreckels, a German immigrant who became one of the wealthiest men in America during the Gilded Age. Discover how Spreckels built a sugar empire in California and Hawaii in her captivating biography "The Sugar King of California," which Blaine DeSantis calls "the best biography I've read in over 20 years." Links: "The Sugar King of California" Book: https://amzn.to/47YF0kT Dr. Sandra Bonura Website: https://www.sandrabonura.com/ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/RiIqHiJBLR8 _ Produced by Podcast Studio X. Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

In this episode, author Aimie K. Runyan discusses her new biographical fiction novel, Mademoiselle Eiffel, which uncovers the little-known story of Claire Eiffel, Gustave Eiffel's daughter. Runyan shares fascinating insights from her research into Claire's pivotal role working alongside her famous father on projects like the Eiffel Tower and Statue of Liberty, and how Claire stepped up to manage the family and business after her mother's death. A must-listen for fans of untold histories and remarkable women. Links: "Mademoiselle Eiffel" Book: https://amzn.to/3Y61iOn Aimie K. Ryunyan Website: https://aimiekrunyan.com/ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/eTTTnY6rZRo _ Produced by Podcast Studio X. Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

She lied, she cheated, she swindled. And she almost got away with it. Annie Reed, author of "The Impostor Heiress," reveals the stranger-than-fiction tale of Cassie Chadwick, a woman who posed as Andrew Carnegie's daughter and conned her way into millions during the Gilded Age. But who was the real Cassie Chadwick hiding beneath all the diamonds and deception? Reed unravels the mysteries in this unbelievable true story of greed, manipulation and the art of the con. Links: "The Impostor Heiress" Book: https://amzn.to/3ZwtSt9 Annie Reed Website: https://www.authoranniereed.com/ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/brEund2FJvc _ Produced by Podcast Studio X. Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

Adoptee and author Janet Sherlund gets personal about her search for belonging in this must-listen episode. Sharing insights from her memoir "Abandoned at Birth," Sherland offers a relatable perspective on the challenges adoptees face in forming their identities and connecting with their roots. Gain a deeper understanding of the adoption experience and the importance of openness and honesty in helping adoptees thrive.  Links: "Abandoned at Birth" Book: https://amzn.to/3TvUcQw Janet Sherlund Website: https://www.abandonedatbirthbook.com/ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/i-CJvuWePYQ _ Produced by Podcast Studio X. Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

Join author Allison Alsup as she discusses her debut novel "Foreign Seed". Alsup shares the decade-long journey of writing her book, from the initial spark of inspiration to the extensive research and revisions that shaped the final story. She also delves into the historical and personal influences behind her complex characters and offers a sneak peek at her upcoming second novel. Links: "Foreign Seed" Book: https://amzn.to/4dgCYxH Allison Alsup Website: https://www.allisonalsup.com/ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/KcnZSyIgyfw _ Produced by Podcast Studio X. Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

If you've ever found yourself lost in the aisles of a bookstore, this episode is for you. Dr. Evan Friss, author of "The Bookshop: A History of the American Bookstore," shares his passion for the magic of bookstores and the communities they create. Learn about the innovators who revolutionized bookselling, the cozy charm of indie shops, and the surprising role of department stores in book culture. Whether you're a bibliophile or just looking for your next great read, this episode will deepen your appreciation for the power of bookstores in our lives. Links: "The Bookshop" Book: https://amzn.to/3Z3QCk9 Evan Friss Website: https://evanfriss.com/ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/yAQ8jR_fvLw _ Produced by Podcast Studio X. Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

What happens when you leave everything behind to start anew in the wilds of Montana? Author Lynne Spriggs O'Connor did just that, and the experience transformed her in ways she never imagined. From learning to hunt elk to finding unexpected love, O'Connor's memoir "Elk Love" challenges us to consider: How deeply can nature change us if we let it? Links: "Elk Love" Book: https://amzn.to/3AFUMEI Lynne Spriggs O'Connor Website: https://lynneoconnorauthor.com/ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/VyqDHzP67aM _ Produced by Podcast Studio X. Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

Dive into the captivating world of the Old West with author Chris Wimmer as he shares the stories behind his hit book "The Summer of 1876." Discover the lesser-known tales of American history and learn how Wimmer brings these narratives to life through his immersive podcasts. Whether you're a history buff or just love a good story, this episode is packed with fascinating insights you won't find in any textbook. Links: "The Summer of 1876": https://amzn.to/4fPF5Lg Black Barrel Media: https://blackbarrelmedia.com Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/F9HV4iZNb00 _ Produced by Podcast Studio X. Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

Today we’re joined by acclaimed author and former New York Times obituary writer Margalit Fox. Margalit discusses her captivating new historical true crime book, "The Talented Mrs. Mandelbaum," which uncovers the extraordinary life of a forgotten female crime boss in 1860s New York. Book Spotlight: "The Talented Mrs. Mandelbaum": "The Talented Mrs. Mandelbaum" tells the astonishing story of Fredericka Mandelbaum, a poor Jewish immigrant who rose to become the first major female organized crime boss in America. With meticulous research and engrossing prose, Margalit Fox brings to life this overlooked figure from New York's underworld and the corrupt society that allowed her empire to flourish. Discussed in this Episode: The incredible rags-to-riches tale of Fredericka Mandelbaum, a German-Jewish immigrant who built a criminal empire as a "fence" for stolen goods How Mandelbaum leveraged societal changes, corrupt politicians, and an eager new middle class to create a thriving underworld business The difference between a bank robber and a bank burglar, and how Mandelbaum's crew used clever tactics to carry out heists Mandelbaum's opulent lifestyle and her surprising role as a beloved benefactor in her Lower East Side community The shrewd methods Mandelbaum used to elude authorities, including secret rooms, hidden compartments, and a network of safe houses The shifting attitudes towards crime that eventually led to increased pressure on Mandelbaum and her empire Insights into Margalit Fox's research process and her fascination with uncovering forgotten stories from the past Links: "The Talented Mrs. Mandelbaum": https://amzn.to/3SNPRYt Margalit Fox Website: https://margalitfox.com/ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/-DjNl7kLS1s _ Produced by Podcast Studio X. Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.

Today we welcome Paige McClanahan, travel writer for the New York Times and author of the eye-opening new book "The New Tourist." With a career spanning continents and cultures, Paige brings a wealth of experience and insight to the conversation about how tourism has evolved over the past half-century. Book Spotlight: "The New Tourist": "The New Tourist" is a captivating deep dive into the world of modern travel, exploring how tourism has transformed since the 1970s. Through a blend of historical analysis, on-the-ground reporting, and over 2,000 interviews, Paige uncovers the complex realities behind an industry that moves more than a billion people each year. Discussed in this Episode: The explosive growth of global tourism, from 25 million annual trips in 1950 to over 1.5 billion today The story of Tony and Maureen Wheeler, founders of Lonely Planet, and how their guidebooks reshaped budget travel Social media's double-edged impact on travel, from democratizing voices to overwhelming fragile destinations Barcelona's battle against overtourism and the importance of sustainable tourism management Reexamining "tourist traps" like Amsterdam's Red Light District and understanding their appeal The environmental cost of travel and the urgent need for transformation in the aviation industry How personal connections formed through travel can break down stereotypes and foster cross-cultural understanding Links: "The New Tourist": https://amzn.to/46EABCT Paige McClanahan Website: https://www.paigemcclanahan.com Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ZsjsxnXqagg _ Produced by Podcast Studio X. Find my book reviews on ViewsOnBooks.com.