Bethanne Patrick

Bethanne Patrick, a LATimes book critic and host of the Missing Pages podcast, dives into the complex landscape of contemporary nonfiction. She explores Melissa Fibos' year of celibacy, highlighting themes of self-discovery over toxic romance. Discussion shifts to Thomas Chatterton Williams' critique of identity politics and racial discourse, alongside the absurdity captured in Damon Young's anthology. Patrick also examines AI's growing influence, questioning its implications for authentic connection and societal discourse in an age marked by anxiety and isolation.

Book critic Bethanne Patrick discusses six speculative novels that imagine a world saturated by AI. Topics include the AI threat and regulation, AI's impact on the writing industry, and the role of AI in creating a murder mystery. They also explore the concept of AI as a partnership, the power of sci-fi writing, and the theme of a smart home in the novel 'Rose House'. Additionally, they discuss the recreation of humans in literature using AI and its impact on the publishing industry.

Bethanne Patrick, a renowned book critic for the Los Angeles Times, shares her favorite reads of 2025, emphasizing the fascinating intersection of fact and fiction. She discusses Caroline Fraser's gripping non-fiction, *Murderland*, linking 1970s serial killers to environmental issues. Patrick also explores Ian McEwan's dual narrative of dystopia and hope, and the survival tale of Maurice and Marilyn Bailey. Rounding out her picks, she highlights the complexities of identity in Katie Kitamura's work and James Baldwin’s impactful love life as portrayed by Nicholas Boggs.

Book critic Bethanne Patrick, known for her insightful reflections on men's literature, argues that the literary man isn't dead—he's simply transformed. She highlights how modern male writers defy traditional stereotypes, showcasing figures like Ocean Vuong and Kwame Alexander. Patrick introduces five essential books tackling today's male identity crisis, pushing for a shift away from rigid gender norms. With generational change empowering diverse narratives, she encourages men to embrace queer literature and rethink masculinity beyond outdated archetypes.

Join literary critic Bethanne Patrick, known for her insightful reviews at the Los Angeles Times and as the host of Missing Pages, as she explores the intersection of environment and morality. Discover how French women resisted Nazis while being overlooked in history, and delve into the alarming ties between pollution and serial killers like Ted Bundy. Learn about the legacy of Mother Emanuel AME Church and the nuances of forgiveness and resilience in the face of injustice. Each narrative weaves a complex tapestry of human behavior shaped by both trauma and triumph.