Bomb scare: " ... the class dweeb and his sexual initiation ..."
Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts
Adrian Tomine is a critically acclaimed graphic novelist and illustrator known for his thoughtful and introspective storytelling. His notable works include "Shortcomings," "Killing and Dying," and the acclaimed series "Optic Nerve." Tomine's writing style is characterized by its keen observations of modern life and relationships, often exploring themes of identity, alienation, and the complexities of human emotions. His visually striking art complements his narratives, making him a prominent voice in contemporary comic literature.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Amanda Palmer is an American singer-songwriter, author, and performance artist, best known for her work as a solo artist and as part of the band The Dresden Dolls. Palmer is known for her theatrical performances, genre-blending music, and her strong connection with her fanbase. She has been a pioneer in crowdfunding, raising millions to fund her creative projects through platforms like Kickstarter and Patreon. Palmer is also the author of The Art of Asking, where she explores themes of vulnerability, creativity, and connection. Her work transcends traditional music, blending performance art, activism, and community engagement.
View CollectionLex Fridman is an artificial intelligence researcher, podcaster, and MIT professor, known for his work in autonomous vehicles, robotics, and deep learning. Fridman has gained widespread popularity through his podcast, Lex Fridman Podcast, where he interviews leading thinkers in science, technology, and philosophy, exploring topics like AI, consciousness, and the future of humanity. His academic work focuses on human-centered AI, aiming to create machines that can better understand and interact with humans. Fridman’s ability to distill complex topics into accessible conversations has earned him a large following, and his podcast is known for its thoughtful, in-depth discussions with some of the brightest minds of our time. He is also an advocate for the responsible development of AI, emphasizing the ethical implications of this rapidly advancing technology. Outside of academia and podcasting, Fridman is a practitioner of jiu-jitsu and frequently speaks about the importance of discipline and continuous learning.
View CollectionAlicia Keys, an acclaimed American singer-songwriter and classically trained pianist, has made significant contributions to the music industry with her soulful voice and compelling lyrics. She burst onto the scene with her debut album, "Songs in A Minor," which earned her five Grammy Awards. In addition to her musical achievements, Keys is also a celebrated author; her memoir "More Myself: A Journey" provides an intimate look at her life and career. She has used her platform to advocate for social justice, co-founding the Keep a Child Alive organization to combat HIV/AIDS in Africa. Alicia Keys continues to inspire through her artistry and activism, leaving a lasting impact on both music and literature.
View CollectionCaterina Fake is an American entrepreneur and investor, best known for co-founding Flickr, one of the first photo-sharing platforms that helped define social media and web 2.0. After the success of Flickr, Fake went on to co-found Hunch, a recommendation engine that was later acquired by eBay. She is a partner at Yes VC, a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage startups, with a focus on companies that foster human connection and creativity. Fake is also an advocate for ethical technology and often speaks about the importance of designing products that prioritize user well-being. Her contributions to tech and her insights on the intersection of technology and culture have made her a respected leader in the industry.
View CollectionJack Edwards is a British YouTuber, content creator, and author known for his videos on literature, academia, and productivity. Edwards gained popularity through his educational content, which includes book recommendations, study tips, and insights into university life. He is an advocate for reading and lifelong learning, often encouraging his audience to explore literature and improve their academic skills. Edwards has also written a book, The Uni-Verse, which offers advice to students navigating university life. His work has made him a well-known figure in the educational and literary communities, particularly among young readers and students.
View CollectionJacinda Ardern is a prominent New Zealand politician who served as the 40th Prime Minister of New Zealand from 2017 to 2023. Known for her empathetic leadership, she garnered international acclaim for her handling of the Christchurch mosque shootings in 2019, promoting unity and compassion. Ardern also led New Zealand through the COVID-19 pandemic with a strong public health response. In addition to her political career, she has contributed to literature by authoring several speeches and articles that reflect her progressive values and leadership philosophy. Her legacy includes significant strides in social welfare, climate change policy, and child poverty reduction.
View CollectionAudrey Gelman is an American entrepreneur and writer, best known as the co-founder and former CEO of The Wing, a network of co-working spaces and social clubs designed for women. She has been recognized for her innovative approach to creating supportive environments for professional women, significantly impacting feminist discourse and workplace equality. Gelman has also contributed thought-provoking essays to prominent publications such as The New York Times and The New Yorker, where she discusses gender, politics, and culture. Her leadership at The Wing has been celebrated for fostering community and collaboration among women. Additionally, Gelman's influence extends to the political sphere, having previously worked as a press aide on several high-profile campaigns.
View CollectionBarack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
View CollectionOprah Winfrey is a globally renowned media mogul, talk show host, and philanthropist. She gained fame through her groundbreaking talk show, "The Oprah Winfrey Show," which ran for 25 years and became one of the highest-rated programs in television history. Winfrey has significantly impacted literature through her influential book club, Oprah's Book Club, which has propelled numerous books to bestseller status and fostered a love of reading across diverse audiences. She is also the author of several books, including her memoir "The Life You Want," and has contributed to numerous inspirational and self-help publications. Beyond her literary contributions, Winfrey has been a powerful advocate for education and empowerment, founding the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa.
View CollectionAnya Taylor-Joy is an acclaimed actress known for her captivating performances in film and television. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Beth Harmon in the critically acclaimed Netflix series "The Queen's Gambit," which earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress. Taylor-Joy has also starred in notable films such as "The Witch," "Split," and "Emma," showcasing her versatility and depth as an actress. In addition to her acting career, she has been praised for her contributions to promoting diverse and complex female characters in modern storytelling. Her work continues to inspire audiences and set a high standard in the entertainment industry.
View CollectionAnderson Cooper is an esteemed American journalist and television personality, best known for anchoring "Anderson Cooper 360°" on CNN. He has gained widespread recognition for his incisive reporting on major global events, earning multiple Emmy Awards for his work. Cooper is also an accomplished author, having penned the best-selling memoir "Dispatches from the Edge," which chronicles his experiences covering some of the world's most perilous conflicts and disasters. His literary contributions extend to "The Rainbow Comes and Goes," a poignant dialogue with his mother, Gloria Vanderbilt, that explores themes of family and resilience. Through his work in both journalism and literature, Cooper has made a significant impact on contemporary media and storytelling.
View CollectionAnn Handley is a renowned digital marketing pioneer and a Wall Street Journal bestselling author. She is the author of "Everybody Writes," a seminal guide on creating compelling content, and co-author of "Content Rules," which outlines effective content marketing strategies. As the Chief Content Officer at MarketingProfs, she has significantly influenced modern marketing practices. Handley is also a highly sought-after keynote speaker, known for her insights on digital content and marketing trends. Her work has empowered countless marketers to elevate their content creation and strategy efforts.
View CollectionMeryl Streep, an acclaimed American actress, has left an indelible mark on the world of film and theater with her extraordinary talent and versatility. She holds the record for the most Academy Award nominations of any actor, with a staggering 21 nominations and three wins. Streep's performances in films such as "Sophie's Choice," "The Devil Wears Prada," and "The Iron Lady" have garnered critical acclaim and solidified her reputation as one of the greatest actresses of her generation. Beyond her acting prowess, she has contributed to literature by narrating audiobooks, including the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel "The Poisonwood Bible" by Barbara Kingsolver. Streep's dedication to her craft and her ability to bring complex characters to life continue to inspire both audiences and fellow artists.
View CollectionBob Iger is an American business executive and the former CEO of The Walt Disney Company, where he led the company through a period of unprecedented growth and innovation. Under Iger’s leadership, Disney acquired major brands like Pixar, Marvel, Lucasfilm, and 21st Century Fox, expanding its portfolio and creating one of the largest entertainment empires in the world. Iger is also credited with launching the Disney+ streaming service, which has become a key player in the digital entertainment space. His leadership style is known for its focus on creativity, long-term vision, and strategic acquisitions. Iger’s tenure at Disney solidified his reputation as one of the most successful and influential media executives.
View CollectionHillary Clinton is an American politician, diplomat, and former First Lady of the United States, who served as U.S. Secretary of State from 2009 to 2013. Clinton was the Democratic nominee for president in 2016, becoming the first woman to win the nomination of a major U.S. political party. Throughout her career, Clinton has been a strong advocate for women’s rights, healthcare reform, and human rights. She is also the author of several books, including What Happened, which chronicles her 2016 presidential campaign. Clinton’s impact on American politics, particularly as a champion for gender equality and social justice, remains significant.
View CollectionAnthony Bourdain was an acclaimed chef, author, and television personality known for his deep exploration of global cuisine and culture. He gained widespread recognition with his 2000 bestseller "Kitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly," which offered an unvarnished look behind the scenes of the restaurant industry. Bourdain's literary talents extended to several other books, including "A Cook's Tour" and "Medium Raw," further cementing his status as a compelling storyteller. His groundbreaking TV shows such as "No Reservations" and "Parts Unknown" took viewers on culinary adventures around the world, earning him numerous awards, including multiple Emmy Awards. Bourdain's legacy endures as a pioneer who celebrated the richness of diverse cultures through food.
View CollectionNeil Gaiman is a bestselling British author known for his fantasy, horror, and science fiction works, including American Gods, Coraline, and The Sandman graphic novel series. His stories often blend mythology, folklore, and the supernatural, creating dark yet imaginative worlds. Gaiman’s work has been adapted into films, television shows, and radio plays, further cementing his influence in popular culture. He has won numerous awards, including the Hugo, Nebula, and Bram Stoker awards. Gaiman continues to be a beloved figure in both literature and pop culture, known for his storytelling prowess and unique voice.
View CollectionPewDiePie, born Felix Kjellberg in 1989, is a Swedish YouTuber renowned for his Let's Play videos and comedic content, making him one of the most subscribed and influential figures on the platform. Beyond his online presence, Kjellberg is also an accomplished author; his book "This Book Loves You," published in 2015, became a New York Times Bestseller. Known for his distinctive and engaging style, PewDiePie has significantly impacted internet culture and digital entertainment. He has also used his platform for philanthropic efforts, raising substantial funds for various charities. His career exemplifies the intersection of digital media and traditional publishing, showcasing his versatility and broad appeal.
View CollectionGretchen Rubin is a bestselling author and happiness expert, best known for her books The Happiness Project and Better Than Before. She explores the science of habits, happiness, and human behavior, helping readers improve their everyday lives. Gretchen’s popular podcast, Happier with Gretchen Rubin, offers practical advice and personal anecdotes to cultivate a more joyful and meaningful life. Her work emphasizes small, daily changes that can lead to long-term well-being. She continues to be a sought-after speaker on topics of happiness and habit formation.
View CollectionJordan Peterson is a Canadian psychologist, author, and professor, best known for his work on psychology, political philosophy, and cultural criticism. His book 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos became a global bestseller, offering advice on personal responsibility, order, and meaning in life. Peterson’s lectures, which cover topics like mythology, religion, and self-improvement, have garnered millions of views online, making him a polarizing figure in both academic and popular circles. He is known for his critiques of political correctness and his emphasis on individual responsibility. Peterson’s influence has sparked widespread debate about free speech, identity politics, and mental health.
View CollectionChristopher Hitchens (1949-2011) was a prolific British-American author, journalist, and literary critic known for his sharp wit and unapologetic criticism of religion and political figures. He penned numerous books, including the best-selling "God Is Not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything," which cemented his reputation as a leading public intellectual and outspoken atheist. Hitchens contributed regularly to prominent publications such as Vanity Fair, The Nation, and The Atlantic, showcasing his wide-ranging knowledge and incisive commentary. He was also lauded for his powerful oratory skills, engaging in countless debates and lectures worldwide. His memoir, "Hitch-22," offers an introspective look into his life, further solidifying his legacy as a formidable voice in contemporary literature and thought.
View CollectionDiscover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.