43. Bill Hader: This Episode Has It All

This Boy's Life is a memoir by Tobias Wolff that recounts his challenging childhood in the 1950s. The story follows Wolff, who goes by Jack, and his mother as they move from Florida to Utah in pursuit of the uranium boom. The memoir explores themes of identity, family dynamics, and the struggles of adolescence. Wolff's experiences include academic challenges, involvement with troubled peers, and a journey of self-discovery.

Bird by Bird is a comprehensive guide to writing that covers various aspects of the craft, from the initial stages of starting a project to the technical details of plot, character, and dialogue. Lamott emphasizes the importance of persistence, faith, and hard work in writing. She advocates for writing imperfect first drafts and warns against the pitfalls of perfectionism and self-criticism. The book also delves into the emotional and spiritual aspects of writing, encouraging writers to confront their deepest fears and desires. Lamott's approach is down-to-earth, humorous, and generously filled with personal experiences and practical advice.