Book Review // July 2022
“Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism” by Amanda Montell
I had been waiting for this book to pop up on the Libby app since I heard the author, and Baltimore native speak on a podcast. My biggest question, and one I often debate with friends is, “Are cults really such a bad thing?” Some cults are certainly bad, even awful, like Jonestown, while others might not be considered cult but they have similar tendencies. These would include Peleton or Soul Cycle as indicated in “Cultish.” I have joked that I’m in in several cults (yoga, essential oils, November Project, Phish, a sorority and a college lacrosse team to name a few.) These “cults” certainly aren’t Heaven’s Gate but they are groups of humans connected in a shared way through the use of language and ritual. So the line between a cult and an affinity group can be thin. Some sections of the book were particularly smug and it seemed like the author could have benefited from a cult and a more closely knit friend group. Although she didn’t go into detail on sororities/ fraternities or sports fans, fitness “cults”, which I’m particularly interested in, were discussed at length. A fascinating read if you are curious about how, why and through what means humans form groups. We’re legit the weirdest species.
“Lessons in Chemistry” by Bonnie Garmus
A super cool novel set in the 1950 - 1970s when women, especially in science were cut out or threatened in the workforce. The protagonist is a badass who handles not just her job in chemistry but heartbreak, betrayal and motherhood with grace. I found myself angry at the foolish and in some cases hugely sexist men (has anything changed in the last 65 years?!) and cheering when good prevailed. Totally a book to check out.
“The Nineties” by Chuck Klosterman
I was there in the 90’s…as a 7 year old when began and then going to prom at the end of the decade. Growing up in the 90’s felt equal parts fun and easy yet weird and awkward. Reviewing the decade in terms of American history was interesting and so was reliving the funny memories and odd moments. If you remember the decade as an adult or a kiddo or if you came into the world in the 90’s this will be a nice refresher.
“The Anthropocene Reviewed” by John Green
How did I end up on another book of essays? This one was more entertaining and told through the easy style of John Green (author of “The Fault in Our Stars”) I loved his conversational tone and reverence for those around him. Green comes across humble yet intelligent, someone you would want to have lunch with and then go on long walk through the park. His 1-5 star rating of various parts of the human condition was a neat way to review where we are…even if I did disagree with a few ratings. Check it out.
“Atlas of the Heart: Mapping Meaningful Connection and The Language of Human Experience” by Brene Brown
My queen! I have been a big Brene Brown fan since 2018. Reading her book “Braving the Wilderness” in Fall of that year set me on a course that is actively changing my life. The Unlocking Us Podcast and all the ways she shows up in the world are truly inspiriting. Understanding language is of huge interest to me as I was a Communication Studies major and Sociology minor on college. How individuals and groups use language allows us to interact with each other in a fuller way. If you loved Brene before you’ll love this book and if this is your 1st time encountering her work, please take the time to fully absorb.
“Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men” by Caroline Criado Perez
Warning: only read this book if you’re okay getting mad. Like really freaking mad (as if the Roe v Wade overturn hadn’t done that for many of us) Turns out, everything from smart phones to cars, to home design to how to structure the day including PTO like maternity leave was designed by and for men. Medical research has been conducted primarily on men and this has major implications for women who take medication, have procedures, use supplements, exercise, etc. What I loved about the book was that , as the subtitle indicates, data is critical yet noticeably absent as it pertains to a woman’s place in the world. I also liked that the book compared various countries (hint: America has a LONG way to go in terms of gender equality) If you want to yell in public while walking your dog (as I did while listening to the audio book) then check this out.
“The Maid” by Nita Prose
After reading 4 non-fiction books in a row, I was ready for palate cleanser. This novel was a quick and interesting listen if not a bit predicable. I really felt for Molly the maid, a dorky gal with limited / stunned social skills. Her lovable demeanor was worth rooting for. Enjoyable and worth a read if you like easy fiction
Monthly Total: 7
Yearly Total: 42