There are a lot of rules when it comes to pregnancy. But why does it differ doctor to doctor, region by region? Emily Oster, a data-obsessed economist, wanted to know where these rules came from so, naturally, she dug into the studies that led to the fuzzy conclusions we all know today. This book isn’t intended to be chapters of advice, but rather an awareness of potential risk according to the numbers. So pour yourself a glass of wine (you’re fine as long as you don’t do cocaine while you’re at it) and get into the numbers.
When you like owning things but also hate capitalism
Eula Biss wants to understand, what is capitalism? Part memoir, part essay, part research project, Eula Biss dissects the contradictions of being a middle class consumer. From buying furniture to art to a washing machine, what are the ethics behind what we buy, how was it assigned value, and why does it feel good to acquire things.
A history of incest, dragons, and a woman's right to the throne
Do blondes have more fun? If you’re constantly watching you back lest your relative stab you in the back maybe not so much. Fire & Blood takes you back to beginning of the Targaryen rule of Westeros. There are baby dragons, plenty of incest, incompetent men and queens pulling the strings. There’s girl power and an uprising of the 99%. Basically feels like the 2011 (#occupyWesteros). If you read the Game of Thrones books you’ll feel right at home.
The rage behind Momofuko
Famous chef (but don’t call him a celebrity chef) David Chang opens up about how depression, rage, and extreme work ethic led to the success of Momofuku. Don’t read if you’re hungry. Definitely read if you’re thinking of opening your own restaurant.
Welcome to The Villages, Florida's downtown disney for America's seniors
A documentary about a senior community in Florida could easily turn into biting commentary about some of Trump’s most avid supporters. While some was implied, Some Kind of Heaven puts politics aside. Instead, it’s a peek into the enduring hearts of four of America’s seniors who are looking to sip from the fountain of youth. From single’s clubs to acting class to golf, this 180,000-person margaritaville has it all. Follow one deviant Casanova (and non-Villages resident) as he searches the community for a rich companion to free him from his van life. Sit alongside a couple who struggles with the husband’s new-found drug abuse. Lastly, accompany a widow who feels like she doesn’t quite belong. Come for the candied b-roll, stay for the charming character arcs.
Michael Jordan takes things personally
The 90s-era Chicago Bulls were dominant - on the court and in culture - thanks to the greatest basketball player of all time. But you don’t become a GOAT without pissing off some people. Michael Jordan’s legendary rise is full of supporting characters, one-liners, and rivalries and The Last Dance documentary captures it all. Come for MJ’s shit talking, stay for all the Dennis Rodman stories.