Ep 270 - How To Retain More of What You Read

'Mortal Engines' is set in a post-apocalyptic world where mobile cities, known as Traction Cities, roam the landscape in search of resources, literally devouring smaller settlements. The story follows Tom Natsworthy, a young apprentice historian, and Hester Shaw, a mysterious young woman with a scarred face and a vengeful agenda. They become unlikely allies as they uncover dark secrets about the ruling powers of London, one of the largest and most powerful Traction Cities. The novel explores themes of power, social injustice, and the consequences of unchecked technological advancement. Through vivid world-building and compelling characters, Reeve creates a thrilling adventure that challenges readers to consider the cost of progress.

Spanning thirty years, 'Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow' by Gabrielle Zevin is a sweeping narrative that explores the lives of Sam and Sadie, two friends united by their love of video games. From their childhood encounters to their adulthood as successful game developers, the book delves into themes of identity, creativity, disability, and the redemptive possibilities in play. It is a coming-of-age story that examines the multifaceted nature of human relationships and the need to connect, love, and be loved. The novel is praised for its mature and nuanced portrayal of characters and its ability to engage readers even without prior knowledge of the video game industry.

The novel revolves around a supernatural Buick Roadmaster discovered by Pennsylvania State Troopers Ennis Rafferty and Curtis Wilcox in 1979. The car, which appears normal but has numerous anomalies, is stored in a shed behind the barracks. Over the years, strange occurrences and disappearances are linked to the car, which is believed to be a portal to another dimension. The story is told through the recollections of the troopers to Curtis's son, Ned, who becomes entangled in the mystery after his father's death. The novel explores themes of fascination with deadly things, the insistence on answers when there are none, and the courage in the face of the unknowable.

Set in the fictional Pittsburgh suburb of Libertyville, Pennsylvania in 1978, the story revolves around Arnie Cunningham, a nerdy teenager who buys a dilapidated 1958 Plymouth Fury named Christine. As Arnie restores the car, he becomes increasingly obsessed with it, and Christine begins to exert a supernatural influence over him. The car, possessed by the vengeful spirit of its previous owner, Roland D. LeBay, systematically consumes every aspect of Arnie's life, leading to a series of terrifying and deadly events. Arnie's friends, Dennis Guilder and Leigh Cabot, must uncover the truth behind Christine's malevolent powers and stop her before it's too late.

The Martian tells the story of astronaut Mark Watney, who is presumed dead and left stranded on Mars after a fierce storm. With limited supplies, Watney must draw upon his ingenuity, wit, and spirit to subsist and find a way to signal to Earth that he is alive. Meanwhile, NASA and a team of international scientists work tirelessly to bring 'the Martian' home, while Watney faces numerous challenges in his quest for survival. The novel is praised for its blend of science, humor, and suspense.

This classic novel by Robert M. Pirsig is a personal and philosophical odyssey that delves into the author's search for meaning. The narrative follows a father and his son on a summer motorcycle trip from the Midwest to California, intertwining a travelogue with deep philosophical discussions. The book explores the concept of 'quality' and how it informs a well-lived life, reconciling science, religion, and humanism. It also touches on the author's own struggles with his past and his philosophical quest, making it a touching and transcendent exploration of human experience and endeavor.

The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry is a moving story about a bookstore owner whose life is transformed by unexpected events. After the death of his wife and the theft of his prized book collection, A.J. Fikry finds new purpose through a mysterious package and the people around him. The novel celebrates the power of books and human connections.

In 'Man a Machine', Julien Offray de La Mettrie extends Descartes' argument that animals are automatons to humans, denying dualism and the existence of a separate soul. He argues that all mental faculties are products of the bodily machine, specifically the brain and nervous system. This work was highly controversial and led to La Mettrie's exile from France.