It Could Happen Here Weekly 164

April, fed up with the dating world, creates an ideal persona named Gretel. As she navigates her relationships through this persona, she starts to fall for Joshua, who knows only Gretel. The book delves into themes of identity, relationships, and deeper issues such as sexual assault and personal trauma, making it a complex and engaging read.

This book provides a comprehensive and nuanced account of Paris under German occupation from 1940 to 1944. It describes how Parisians adapted to the occupation, some even collaborating with the Nazis, while others formed a resistance movement around Charles de Gaulle. The book draws on a wide range of sources including memoirs, diaries, letters, archives, interviews, and historical studies to paint a vivid picture of life in occupied Paris, highlighting the complexities of survival, accommodation, and resistance during this period.

In Whipping Girl, Julia Serano presents a collection of essays that debunk myths and misconceptions about trans women, femininity, and gender. She argues that transphobia is deeply connected to sexism and the societal devaluation of femininity. Serano uses her personal experiences, training as a biologist, and career in queer activism to bridge the gap between biological and social perspectives on gender. The book makes a compelling case for the importance of empowering femininity and highlights the need for feminists and transgender activists to work together to create a more just and inclusive society. The third edition includes a new afterword addressing the contemporary anti-trans backlash.

Steppenwolf, written by Hermann Hesse, is a deeply philosophical and psychological novel that follows the life of Harry Haller, a 48-year-old man who identifies himself as a 'Steppenwolf,' feeling half-human and half-wolf. The novel delves into Harry's inner turmoil as he struggles to reconcile his intellectual and artistic side with his more primal, wolfish nature. Through his interactions with characters like Hermine, Pablo, and Maria, Harry is forced to confront his own dualism and the societal conventions he despises. The novel is known for its complex exploration of the human condition, incorporating elements of Eastern mysticism and Western culture, and culminates in a surreal and symbolic journey through the 'Magic Theater' where Harry's multiple selves are explored.