The Nonfiction Digest - Issue #2

This Week in Nonfiction: Patrick Radden Keefe, Spotify, Redefining Motherhood and Splinters

It’s STILL January—doesn’t it feel like this month has been going on forever? To make things more interesting, I’ve rounded up some of the best nonfiction news and finds I came across this week. Let’s get into it.

Pop Culture: Patrick Radden Keefe - From Bestseller to J.Crew Model

I had to do a double-take when I saw this one. Patrick Radden Keefe—yes, the brilliant author of Empire of Pain—has stepped in front of the camera as a J.Crew model. Who knew investigative journalism and fashion could mix so well? Here’s the story if you’re curious.

Corporate Exposé: The Drama Behind Spotify’s Playlists

A new book, Mood Machine: The Rise of Spotify and the Costs of the Perfect Playlist by Liz Pelly, came out earlier this month (January 7th). As an avid user, I was intrigued, but after reading this review on The Verge, I’m not totally sure this one is for me—it sounds like a lot of corporate drama. If you decide to check it out, I’d love to hear your thoughts!

New Release: Redefining Motherhood

Have you ever felt the pressure of trying to live up to impossible parenting standards? The Good Mother Myth: Unlearning Our Bad Ideas About How to Be a Good Mom by Nancy Reddy takes a closer look at those expectations and turns them on their head using a blend of memoir and analysis. The author also has a wonderful Substack where she’s continuing the conversation about motherhood AND helping writers be successful too!

My Current Read: Splinters by Leslie Jamison

This week, I’m reading Leslie Jamison’s Splinters: Another Kind of Love Story. I stumbled upon it while browsing Libby, and it’s turned out to be such a rewarding find. It’s a “divorce memoir,” but its also about motherhood and love and loving yourself. The author’s reputation had always intrigued me, but I’ll admit, I was a little intimidated to pick up her work. And guess what? Her writing is as powerful as everyone says. Here’s just one quote that stopped me in my tracks:

If you’ve read it, I’d love to hear what parts resonated with you.

Cover Showdown: Which One Speaks to You?

Let’s talk about book covers—it’s so hard not to judge a book by them, isn’t it? I’m completely fascinated by the way covers are designed to grab our attention and shape our expectations about what’s inside. And did you know that authors don’t usually get the final say in their covers? This week, I’ll be showing you two covers and asking which one you prefer—because, let’s face it, we all judge a little!

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That’s what’s been on my radar this week. What about you? What’s caught your attention lately? Just hit reply—I’d love to hear from you!

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Happy Reading,
Jaymi