Mere Mortals Book Reviews

The ultimate male fantasy is rather flat & boring.'The Handmaid's Tale' by Margaret Atwood is told from the point of view of an unnamed narrator. It takes place in a USA where there has been an overthrown government and everything is now dystopian. Our girl is 33 yrs old & a handmaid, whose only purpose is to give birth. Life is very different: family structures changed, super totalitarian (everyone is watched), a lot of violence (capital punishment/suicide/torture), monotonous routine & a sprinkle of religiosity. It has very short chapters interspersed with her recollections of the past plus a little future historical context right at the end.Would love to hear your feedback and appreciate any support you wish to give :)Timeline:(00:00:00) Intro(00:02:46) Themes/Questions(00:24:30) Author & Extras(00:27:30) Summary(00:29:43) Value 4 Value(00:31:30) Join Live! Value 4 Value Support:Boostagram: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/supportPaypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcastConnect with Mere Mortals:Website: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/Discord: https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReUTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/meremortalspodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcast

 This review delves into "The Little Book of Versace," evaluating its limited depth and focus on visuals over meaningful insights. While the book covers Versace’s designs and runway moments, it lacks a cohesive narrative, leaving the reader to seek additional context elsewhere. Overall, it's deemed more of a coffee table accessory than an informative resource on the iconic brand.(00:00) - Introduction to the Book Review(00:51) - The Versace Legacy in Brief(01:16) - Thoughts on Book’s Structure and Style(02:28) - The Book’s Visual Appeal vs. Informational Value(03:15) - Focus on Gianni Versace’s Influence(04:05) - The Book’s Shallow Dive into Fashion Culture(05:03) - Personal Research for Versace’s Backstory(05:58) - The Medusa Symbolism Explained(06:36) - Supermodels & Versace’s Influence(07:23) - Coffee Table Book or Fashion Reference?(08:08) - Final Thoughts and RecommendationValue 4 Value Support:Boostagram: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/supportPaypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcastConnect with Mere Mortals:Website: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/Discord: https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReUInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcastWelcome back to  Value 4 Value Support:Boostagram: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/supportPaypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcastConnect with Mere Mortals:Website: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/Discord: https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReUTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/meremortalspodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcast

Are people more cruel or simply the passing of time itself?'East Of Eden' by John Steinbeck is straight up one of the best books I've ever read. We follow various families across the generations as they live & die in 19/20th century America. It's uplifting in some sections and then will follow up with a brutality that brings you to your knees. Easily some of the best written characters and dialogue that I've encountered in all my reading.Would love to hear your feedback and appreciate any support you wish to give :)Timeline:(00:00:00) Intro(00:05:49) Themes/Questions(00:18:41) Author & Extras(00:26:19) Summary(00:28:46) Value 4 Value(00:30:08) Join Live! Value 4 Value Support:Boostagram: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/supportPaypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcastConnect with Mere Mortals:Website: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/Discord: https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReUTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/meremortalspodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcast

I'm begging you, please don't make this mistake!Today is a special episode where I am diving into some of the reasons why I have stopped reading many books. I'm also giving a list of these books so that you don't have to waste your time on them (assuming you trust my judgement).Would love to hear your feedback and appreciate any support you wish to give :)Timeline:(00:00:00) Intro(00:02:18) Structure/Style(00:14:21) Length(00:17:41) Content & Summary(00:28:32) Value 4 Value(00:31:09) Join Live! Value 4 Value Support:Boostagram: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/supportPaypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcastConnect with Mere Mortals:Website: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/Discord: https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReUTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/meremortalspodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcast

In this podcast, I dive into Peter Attia's Outlive, discussing key lessons from the book on longevity and modern medicine. I highlight the surprising flaws in current medical guidelines, explore how centenarians' genetic traits can be mimicked through lifestyle changes, and busts myths about dietary habits like egg consumption. It’s an insightful conversation on optimizing health and balancing extreme views on nutrition and fitness.(00:00) - Welcome and Introduction to Outlive(00:39) - First Learning: Flaws in Type 2 Diabetes Guidelines(02:15) - Black and White in Medicine vs. Grey Areas(04:45) - Breaking the Myth: “First Do No Harm” Wasn't Hippocrates(05:44) - Mimicking Centenarians: Can We Extend Our Lifespan?(07:05) - Chapter Eight: The Crisis of Abundance and Modern Diets(09:33) - The Misunderstanding of Metabolic Syndrome(12:00) - The Humble Egg: Debunking Decades-Old Myths(13:32) - Balancing Extremes in Nutrition and Fitness(14:04) - Final Thoughts on Outlive and Longevity

Why is everyone so mistaken about this book?'The Kama Sutra' by Vātsyāyana is a how-to guide on courtship & sexual pleasure, as opposed to a graphic explanation of sexual positions. All of this comes from an Indian context from that era (so more addressed to the educated man/woman). Split into 7 parts and is about things like sexual union, class & social status differences, acquiring a wife & pleasing her, cheating, courtesans & sexual aids. Would love to hear your feedback and appreciate any support you wish to give :)Timeline:(00:00:00) Intro(00:03:00) Themes/Questions(00:08:52) Author & Extras(00:16:05) Summary(00:20:55) Value 4 Value(00:22:05) Join Live! Value 4 Value Support:Boostagram: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/supportPaypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcastConnect with Mere Mortals:Website: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/Discord: https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReUTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/meremortalspodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcast

In this episode, we dive into "Outlive: The Science of Longevity" by Dr. Peter Attia. The review explores key themes like emotional health, the importance of living better rather than just longer, and practical tips for increasing both lifespan and health span. The review highlights Attia's structured breakdown of science-based tactics to improve longevity and emotional well-being.(00:00) - Introduction to the Episode(00:17) - What is Outlive About?(01:06) - Peter Attia's Background and Credentials(02:53) - Overview of the Book's Structure(04:32) - Health Span vs. Lifespan: The Longevity Curve(05:46) - The Four Horsemen of Health: Key Diseases(06:49) - Exercise, Sleep, and Nutrition: Key Health Tactics(09:01) - Peter Attia's Writing Style and Analogies(11:08) - Emotional Health: The Final Chapter(12:21) - Conclusion and Overall Rating of the BookValue 4 Value Support:Boostagram: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/supportPaypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcastConnect with Mere Mortals:Website: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/Discord: https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReUInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcastWelcome back to

Do your prefer old Dutch horror stories or refined English gentry?'The Sketchbook Of Geoffrey Crayon, Gent' by Washington Irving is a mix of short stories (mostly about English observations from an American). It alternates between nonfiction & fiction, mostly told from the POV of the author. It's most famous for the two Dutch inspired stories of Rip Van Winkle & The Legend Of Sleepy Hollow but you'll also be entertained by Christmas with an eccentric nobleman, why American literature is being discounted, hunting for Shakespeare relics & tales of lovers & princes.Would love to hear your feedback and appreciate any support you wish to give :)Timeline:(0:00) - Intro(2:29) - Themes/Questions(6:57) - Author & Extras(11:51) - Summary(16:06) - Value 4 Value(17:49) - Join Live!Value 4 Value Support:Boostagram: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/supportPaypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcastConnect with Mere Mortals:Website: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/Discord: https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReUTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/meremortalspodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcast

What does it take to market & sell new technology?'Crossing The Chasm' by Geoffrey A. Moore is a how-to book for entrepreneurs & small businesses to get their product to a larger market. He defines & addresses this problem of the chasm and his suggestions for solving it. Inside you'll find lots of jargon, tech speak and industry specific framing such as the whole product, distribution channels, marketing strategy & pricing.Would love to hear your feedback and appreciate any support you wish to give :)Timeline:(0:00) - Intro(2:04) - Themes/Questions(14:45) - Author & Extras(16:32) - Summary(18:38) - Value 4 Value(19:59) - Join Live!Value 4 Value Support:Boostagram: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/supportPaypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcastConnect with Mere Mortals:Website: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/Discord: https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReUTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/meremortalspodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcast

A Bahian trance reflecting the best & worse of Brazilian childhood.'Capitães Da Areia' by Jorge Amado ('Captains Of The Sands' in English) is a coming of age story set in a 1930's Brazilian beach town. We follow a group orphaned adolescents who live without care under a pier. They know the streets better than anyone and are a menace to the city authorities. Under the leadership of their chief Pedro Bala we see them grow from young teenagers into young men through a haze of good & bad experiences.Would love to hear your feedback and appreciate any support you wish to give :)Timeline:(0:00) - Intro(2:21) - Themes/Questions(17:20) - Author & Extras(21:35) - Summary(23:54) - Value 4 Value(25:44) - Join Live!Value 4 Value Support:Boostagram: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/supportPaypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcastConnect with Mere Mortals:Website: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/Discord: https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReUTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/meremortalspodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcast

Who is to blame if the leader can never be wrong?'Tragedy Without Consequences' by Frank Dikötter is a historical book looking at the famine that was caused during China's 'Great Leap Forward'. It showcases the period from 1958-62 and why a series of decisions stemming from Chairman Mao resulted in the death of 30-45 million people. A reoccurring theme was being out of touch with reality, whether it be untested agricultural reforms, distorted data collection or continual lies bouncing from top to bottom. A truly sad period of history.Massive thanks to Petar & Queen Mother for the support. Would love to hear your feedback and appreciate any support you wish to give :)Timeline:(0:00) - Intro(2:18) - Themes/Questions(28:36) - Author & Extras(32:21) - Summary(35:06) - Value 4 Value(38:03) - Join Live!Value 4 Value Support:Boostagram: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/supportPaypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcastConnect with Mere Mortals:Website: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/Discord: https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReUTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/meremortalspodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcast

Praise be to the philosophers for the hard sciences!'The Problems Of Philosophy' by Bertrand Russell is his attempt at explaining basic philosophy as well as giving a brief history of philosophical thought. He starts with questions about reality before expanding out with more and more questions. He covers the writings of some famous philosophers (Descartes, Kant, Hume, etc.,) and gives his own thoughts on why they were right or wrong.Would love to hear your feedback and appreciate any support you wish to give :)Timeline:(0:00) - Intro(1:49) - Themes/Questions(13:18) - Author & Extras(17:09) - Summary(21:59) - Value 4 Value(23:32) - Join Live!Value 4 Value Support:Boostagram: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/supportPaypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcastConnect with Mere Mortals:Website: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/Discord: https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReUTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/meremortalspodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcast

Mr. Sandman, bring me some freedom.'The Woman In The Dunes' by Kobo Abe is a rather simple story of a Japanese man who becomes trapped in the sand dunes. He is led into a large hole where a woman lives and is forced to help her keep sand from encroaching onto the nearby village. We witness his escape attempts and gradual process of getting accustomed to his new environment. It's told from his POV with snippets of external newspaper clippings.Huge thanks to BitpunkFM for supporting the podcast. Would love to hear your feedback and appreciate any support you wish to give :)Timeline:(0:00) - Intro(2:00) - Themes/Questions(13:34) - Author & Extras(16:32) - Summary(18:02) - Value 4 Value(21:05) - Join Live!Value 4 Value Support:Boostagram: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/supportPaypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcastConnect with Mere Mortals:Website: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/Discord: https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReUTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/meremortalspodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcast

Welcome back to Mere Mortals book reviews! Today, we dive into the timeless wisdom of Marcus Aurelius' "Meditations." I'll share key learnings from the Penguin Classics edition. Join me as we explore profound Stoic insights that are just as relevant today as they were in ancient Rome. Don't miss out on these gems!(00:00) - Introduction and Overview(00:24) - Highlighting Key Learnings(01:04) - The Importance of Not Putting Things Off(02:18) - Embracing Present Tasks with Determination(03:48) - Urgency in Becoming Good(04:54) - Judging Events by Your Own Terms(06:14) - Welcoming Death as Part of Nature(07:12) - Reflecting on the Loss Through Death(08:04) - Final Thoughts and Viewer EngagementValue 4 Value Support:Boostagram: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/supportPaypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcastConnect with Mere Mortals:Website: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/Discord: https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReUInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcast

Welcome back to Mere Mortals book reviews! Today, we're diving into Stoicism from the top with Marcus Aurelius' "Meditations." I'll share my thoughts and some interesting insights from the Penguin Classics edition. If you're new to Stoicism or curious about the Roman Emperor's personal reflections, this one's for you!(00:00) - Introduction and Overview(00:33) - Context and Historical Background(01:44) - The Purpose of "Meditations"(02:29) - Marcus Aurelius' Commitment to Stoicism(03:26) - Structure of the Penguin Classics Edition(04:51) - Notes and Annotations in the Book(05:35) - Personal Reflections and Journaling(07:03) - Timeless Wisdom and Relevance(08:31) - Marcus Aurelius' Writing Style(10:01) - Private Journal and Unique Perspective(11:17) - Reading Recommendations and Final Thoughts(12:30) - Closing Remarks and Viewer EngagementValue 4 Value Support:Boostagram: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/supportPaypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcastConnect with Mere Mortals:Website: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/Discord: https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReUInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcast

In this learnings episode, I delve deeper into the lessons and philosophical insights from 'The Little Prince,' sharing my experience of reading it in French. Join me for a thoughtful exploration of this timeless classic.Timeline:00:00 - Introduction01:00 - Reading Experience02:00 - Key Learnings03:00 - Reflections and AdviceValue 4 Value Support:Boostagram: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/supportPaypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcastConnect with Mere Mortals:Website: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/Discord: https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReUInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcast

In this review, I delve into the enchanting world of 'The Little Prince,' uncovering its profound lessons wrapped in a whimsical, childlike narrative. Join me as I explore its timeless themes and delightful illustrations.Timeline:00:00 - Introduction01:00 - Plot Summary02:00 - Themes and Insights03:00 - Personal ReflectionsValue 4 Value Support:Boostagram: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/supportPaypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcastConnect with Mere Mortals:Website: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/Discord: https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReUInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcast

Philosophy that is actually fun to read & contemplate!'Lila: An Inquiry Into Morals' by Robert M. Pirsig is a sequel to his very popular 'Zen & The Art Of Motorcycle Maintenance'. We follow Phaedrus this time sailing to New York and Florida. He meets an interesting lady called Lila who joins him on his adventure but causes him trouble. He's an intellectual philosopher and she's an emotional wild cat. It expands upon the metaphysics of quality and provides examples of his differentiation between Dynamic & Static Quality.Would love to hear your feedback and appreciate any support you wish to give :)Timeline:(0:00) - Intro(3:25) - Themes/Questions(16:57) - Author & Extras(23:33) - Summary(26:37) - Value 4 Value(28:14) - Join Live!Value 4 Value Support:Boostagram: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/supportPaypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcastConnect with Mere Mortals:Website: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/Discord: https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReUTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/meremortalspodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcast

Future predictions that have NOT come true ..... kind of.'The Iron Heel' by Jack London is a dystopian novel with a heavy political undertone (maybe even overtone) that wrongly might be called science fiction. Starts in 1900 America and told from the point of view of Avis who is seduced from her privileged upper class world by Ernest Everhard and his socialist philosophy. Increasing tensions occur between the dying middle/lower class and the capitalistic upper class, which results in revolution and an underground war. The Iron Heel oligarchs vs the Revolutionary socialists. Would love to hear your feedback and appreciate any support you wish to give :)Timeline:(0:00) - Intro(3:49) - Themes/Questions(11:22) - Author & Extras(18:38) - Summary(22:03) - Value 4 Value(23:01) - Join Live!Value 4 Value Support:Boostagram: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/supportPaypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcastConnect with Mere Mortals:Website: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/Discord: https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReUTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/meremortalspodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcast

Future predictions that have come true ..... kind of.'New Rules For The New Economy' by Kevin Kelly are 10 rules that he predicted would change the world just as the internet was coming of age. Most of these are related to networks, increasing adoption of technology and the ability for information to spread cheaply. He makes a lot of generalities that did indeed seem to predict massive trends like social media and businesses like Amazon built from user data. However, the book is not specific in it's predictions, making them appear smarter with hindsight.Would love to hear your feedback and appreciate any support you wish to give :)Timeline:(0:00) - Intro(1:56) - Themes/Questions(8:42) - Author & Extras(10:49) - Summary(13:28) - Value 4 Value(15:02) - Join Live!Value 4 Value Support:Boostagram: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/supportPaypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcastConnect with Mere Mortals:Website: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/Discord: https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReUTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/meremortalspodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcast