🎙 Douglas Vigliotti explores "We the Animals" by Justin Torres, a coming-of-age novel that tackles the intricate themes of family, identity, and personal growth. Douglas sheds light on the author’s background and the book's narrative, which follows a young protagonist as he navigates complex family dynamics and his emerging sexuality. With a focus on the book's emotional depth and minimalist storytelling, Douglas shares his reflections, inviting listeners to join the conversation and embrace the subtle richness of literary fiction.

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📚 Learn more about "Aristotle for Novelists" at AristotleforNovelists.com or READ IT NOW!

⚡️ Connect with the host on Instagram @douglasvigliotti or learn more about him at DouglasVigliotti.com.

🎧 Listen to Douglas Vigliotti's other podcast: Slightly Crooked: Good Stories, Told Well.

⭐️ Please consider sharing "Books for Men" with other men who enjoy reading, or subscribing and rating on your favorite podcast platform. Either goes a long way in helping new listeners find the show and inspire (more) men to read.

🗣️ Listen to episode #95: Miles from Nowhere | Nami Mun!

🗣️ Listen to episode #244: 'Reasons to Live'—Why What Isn't There Is Just as Important as What Is!

💥 TOPICS COVERED IN THE EPISODE:

• Introduction to "We the Animals" (00:09) - Douglas introduces the book "We the Animals" and its themes of family and identity.
• Author Background (01:17) - Discussion on Justin Torres, his writing career, and his connection to the book.
• Book's Adaptation (02:31) - Mention of the indie film adaptation of "We the Animals" released in 2017.
• Themes of the Story (03:36) - Exploration of the book's themes of family life, childhood longing, and the protagonist's coming out.
• Complexity of Emotion (05:00) - Insight into the emotional complexities in the story, compared to works by Amy Hempel.
• Growth is Painful (06:13) - Discussion on the protagonist's painful journey of growth and self-discovery.
• Meaning of the Title (08:51) - Analysis of the title "We the Animals" and its symbolic significance in the narrative.
• Closing Remarks (10:24) - Douglas encourages listeners to subscribe, rate the podcast, and connect with him.

🎙 In this Special Edition episode, Douglas Vigliotti unveils his book selection and curation process, sharing insights into his reading habits, the methodology behind his recommendations, and the importance of a "consumption diet" for mental health. Douglas outlines three pillars for curating his reading list, shares his reading statistics from the last five years and current "to be read" list, and encourages listener feedback and suggestions for future Special Edition episodes.

✓ Sign up for the monthly newsletter at BooksforMen.org.

📚 Learn more about "Aristotle for Novelists" at AristotleforNovelists.com or READ IT NOW!

⚡️ Connect with the host on Instagram @douglasvigliotti or learn more about him at DouglasVigliotti.com.

🎧 Listen to Douglas Vigliotti's other podcast: Slightly Crooked: Good Stories, Told Well.

⭐️ Please consider sharing "Books for Men" with other men who enjoy reading, or subscribing and rating on your favorite podcast platform. Either goes a long way in helping new listeners find the show and inspire (more) men to read.

🗣️ Listen to episode #182: Special Edition | Part 2: 10 Reasons to Read (Fiction)!

🗣️ Listen to episode #202: Special Edition: Audiobooks vs Books (Or, 7 Reasons Why Listening is Not Reading)!

💥 TOPICS COVERED IN THE EPISODE:

• Introduction to the Episode (00:09) - Douglas introduces the special edition episode about his book selection and curation process.
• Encouragement for Listener Engagement (00:40) - He invites listeners to share questions and suggestions for improving the podcast.
• Promotion of New Book (01:26) - Douglas discusses his new book, "Aristotle for Novelists," and its relevance to storytelling.
• Importance of Curation (02:35) - He emphasizes the significance of being intentional about what one consumes in literature and media.
• Reading Deficit Concept (02:35) - Douglas explains the idea of a perpetual reading deficit and its implications for readers.
• Consumption Diet (02:35) - He introduces the concept of a "consumption diet," stressing the importance of quality input.
• Intimacy of Reading (03:47) - Douglas highlights the unique intimacy of reading compared to other media forms.
• Methodology Behind Recommendations (05:03) - He asserts that he only recommends books he has read in their entirety.
• Curating Reading Choices (06:10) - Douglas outlines his three pillars for curating reading material: interest, adjacency, and relationships.
• Interest as a Pillar of Curation (06:10) - He discusses how personal interests guide his reading choices.
• Adjacent Interests (08:30) - Douglas explains how books related to his interests help expand his knowledge and understanding.
• Relationships in Book Selection (09:52) - He talks about the importance of trusting recommendations from others and authors.
• Statistics on Reading Habits (12:05) - Douglas shares his reading statistics for 2023 and previous years, including books read and DNFs.
• Current To Be Read List (15:16) - He concludes with details about his current "to be read" list and its significance.
• Closing Remarks (16:27) - Douglas encourages listener feedback and promotes his new book and social media.

🎙 Douglas Vigliotti dives deep into Leo Tolstoy's timeless masterpiece, "Anna Karenina." Discover why Tolstoy stands as a giant in Russian literature as Douglas unpacks the novel's rich themes, from the fiery pursuit of passion to the comforting embrace of duty. Journey through the contrasting tales of Anna's tumultuous affair and Konstantin Levin's search for joy in family life. Douglas offers insightful reflections on the novel's complex characters and sprawling narrative style, hopefully inspiring men to explore the world of classic literature.

✓ Sign up for the monthly newsletter at BooksforMen.org.

📚 Learn more about "Aristotle for Novelists" at AristotleforNovelists.com or READ IT NOW!

⚡️ Connect with the host on Instagram @douglasvigliotti or learn more about him at DouglasVigliotti.com.

🎧 Listen to Douglas Vigliotti's other podcast: Slightly Crooked: Good Stories, Told Well.

⭐️ Please consider sharing "Books for Men" with other men who enjoy reading, or subscribing and rating on your favorite podcast platform. Either goes a long way in helping new listeners find the show and inspire (more) men to read.

🗣️ Listen to episode #141: The Godfather | Mario Puzo!

💥 TOPICS COVERED IN THE EPISODE:

• Introduction to "Anna Karenina" (00:09) - Douglas introduces the podcast episode and discusses the classic novel "Anna Karenina" by Leo Tolstoy.
• About the Author (01:13) - An overview of Leo Tolstoy's life and literary contributions, emphasizing his influence and notable works.
• Setting and Narrative Structure (02:20) - Discussion about the novel's setting in Russia and its narrative told from multiple character perspectives.
• Iconic Opening Line (03:29) - Exploration of the famous opening line of "Anna Karenina" and its thematic significance regarding family dynamics.
• Character Arcs: Anna and Levin (04:49) - Analysis of the two main character arcs, contrasting Anna's tragic story with Levin's comedic journey.
• Tolstoy's Architectural Pride (06:01) - Tolstoy's reflections on the internal cohesion of "Anna Karenina" and the structure of the narrative.
• Takeaway: Passion vs. Duty (07:22) - Discussion on the novel's message about the consequences of following passion versus the importance of duty.
• Narrative Style: Omniscient Perspective (08:33) - Examination of Tolstoy's omniscient narrative style and its impact on character development and reader experience.
• Character Complexity and Themes (09:46) - Insight into the unlikability of characters and the deeper themes of morality, relationships, and societal expectations.
• Cohesion in Style and Theme (11:03) - Reflection on how the narrative style enhances the themes and messages Tolstoy conveys in the novel.
• Length and Approachability of Epics (12:18) - Discussion on the pros and cons of lengthy novels and their accessibility to modern readers.
• Conclusion and Encouragement (13:25) - Douglas concludes the episode, encouraging listeners to read "Anna Karenina" and engage with classic literature.

🎙 Douglas Vigliotti explores Eric Hoffer's thought-provoking nonfiction book, "The True Believer." Uncover the secrets of extremism, fanaticism, and mass movements as Douglas unravels Hoffer's life and aphoristic writing style, showcasing the book's timeless relevance and lasting influence on political thought. Discover Hoffer's intriguing insights on hope, the power of collective unity, the role of individual responsibility, and the value of a common enemy in driving mass movements.

✓ Sign up for the monthly newsletter at BooksforMen.org.

📚 Learn more about "Aristotle for Novelists" at AristotleforNovelists.com or READ IT NOW!

⚡️ Connect with the host on Instagram @douglasvigliotti or learn more about him at DouglasVigliotti.com.

🎧 Listen to Douglas Vigliotti's other podcast: Slightly Crooked: Good Stories, Told Well.

⭐️ Please consider sharing "Books for Men" with other men who enjoy reading, or subscribing and rating on your favorite podcast platform. Either goes a long way in helping new listeners find the show and inspire (more) men to read.

💥 TOPICS COVERED IN THE EPISODE:

• Introduction to the Podcast (00:09) - Douglas introduces the podcast and the book "The True Believer" by Eric Hoffer.
• Background on Eric Hoffer (01:08) - Discussion on Hoffer's life, his journey as a longshoreman, and his writing career.
• Overview of "The True Believer" (02:09) - Exploration of the book's themes on extremism, fanaticism, and mass movements.
• Thesis of the Book (03:40) - Hoffer's argument that all mass movements share similarities despite their differences.
• Controversy and Reception (05:08) - Discussion on the varied reactions to Hoffer's ideas and the book's influence in political circles.
• Historical Context (06:21) - How the book relates to historical events like WWII and revolutions.
• Takeaways on Hoffer's Writing Style (07:27) - Analysis of Hoffer's aphoristic and provocative writing style.
• Importance of Understanding Mass Movements (08:37) - The relevance of Hoffer's insights to contemporary political dynamics.
• Key Quotes from Hoffer (09:58) - Sharing impactful quotes that illustrate Hoffer's ideas on hope and mass movements.
• The Role of Hatred in Mass Movements (11:20) - Discussion on Hoffer's assertion that hatred is essential for unifying mass movements.
• Collective Unity vs. Individual Independence (12:36) - Exploration of Hoffer's views on loyalty within mass movements.
• Conclusion and Final Thoughts (13:48) - Douglas wraps up the episode, encouraging listener engagement and promoting his new book.

🎙 Douglas Vigliotti dives into the gripping world of Nicolas Ferraro's foreign crime novel, "My Favorite Scar." Originally published in 2021 and making its English debut in 2024, the story follows Ambar, a young girl entangled in a life of crime with her father, as she navigates trauma and personal growth. Vigliotti praises Ferraro's lean style and emphasis on the emotional journey of his protagonist, and he shares why foreign fiction can be a refreshing contrast to American fiction.

✓ Sign up for the monthly newsletter at BooksforMen.org.

📚 Learn more about "Aristotle for Novelists" at AristotleforNovelists.com or READ IT NOW!

⚡️ Connect with the host on Instagram @douglasvigliotti or learn more about him at DouglasVigliotti.com.

🎧 Listen to Douglas Vigliotti's other podcast: Slightly Crooked: Good Stories, Told Well.

⭐️ Please consider sharing "Books for Men" with other men who enjoy reading, or subscribing and rating on your favorite podcast platform. Either goes a long way in helping new listeners find the show and inspire (more) men to read.

🗣️ Listen to episode #123: The Thief | Fuminori Nakamura!

🗣️ Listen to episode #216: Fuminori Nakamura: Subtle, Dark, Complex—Maybe the Most Underrated Author in America!

💥 TOPICS COVERED IN THE EPISODE:

• Introduction to the Episode (00:09) - Douglas introduces the podcast and the foreign crime novel "My Favorite Scar" by Nicolas Ferraro.
• Author Background (01:13) - Discussion about Nicolas Ferraro, his literary background, and his connection to crime fiction.
• Plot Overview (02:16) - Summary of the novel's plot focusing on Amber's life of crime and her father's quest for revenge.
• Themes of Coming of Age (03:32) - Exploration of the coming-of-age theme and its significance in Amber's journey.
• Questions of Identity and Truth (04:45) - Key questions Amber faces about her past and the cost of discovering the truth.
• Thematic Depth of Trauma (06:20) - Discussion on how trauma influences personal growth and the narrative's deeper themes.
• Appreciation for Foreign Crime Fiction (07:27) - Douglas shares his love for foreign crime fiction and its refreshing absence of political bias.
• Literary Style and Minimalism (08:42) - Insights on the minimalistic style of foreign crime fiction compared to American counterparts.
• Comparison to Other Works (10:06) - Comparison of "My Favorite Scar" to "She Ride Shotgun," emphasizing its literary focus.
• Conclusion and Call to Action (11:26) - Douglas wraps up the episode, encouraging listeners to read the book and engage with the podcast.

🎙 In this Special Edition episode, Douglas Vigliotti shares "10 Random Quotes That Will Inspire You to Create Boldly” from influential artists and writers like Leonard Bernstein, Francis Ford Coppola, and Jerry Seinfeld. Vigliotti discusses their relevance to the creative process and emphasizes embracing creativity, persistence, and authenticity. The episode aims to inspire listeners to pursue their creative passions boldly.

✓ Sign up for the monthly newsletter at BooksforMen.org.

📚 Learn more about "Aristotle for Novelists" at AristotleforNovelists.com or READ IT NOW!

⚡️ Connect with the host on Instagram @douglasvigliotti or learn more about him at DouglasVigliotti.com.

🎧 Listen to Douglas Vigliotti's other podcast: Slightly Crooked: Good Stories, Told Well.

⭐️ Please consider sharing "Books for Men" with other men who enjoy reading, or subscribing and rating on your favorite podcast platform. Either goes a long way in helping new listeners find the show and inspire (more) men to read.

🗣️ Listen to episode #183: Owning Up | George Pelecanos!

🗣️ Listen to episode #134: Is This Anything? | Jerry Seinfeld!

💥 TOPICS COVERED IN THE EPISODE:

• Introduction to Special Edition (00:09) - Douglas introduces a special edition episode featuring ten quotes to inspire creativity.
• New Book Announcement (00:40) - He mentions his new book, "Aristotle for Novelists," and invites listeners to visit the website.
• Note-Taking Habit (01:19) - Douglas shares his habit of taking notes and collecting quotes from various media.
• Quote 1: Steve Guttenberg (02:33) - Guttenberg discusses the ruthless nature of show business through a humorous anecdote.
• Quote 2: Francis Ford Coppola (03:54) - Coppola emphasizes that not everyone will appreciate bold creativity, paired with Rubin's insights.
• Quote 3: Rick Rubin (04:56) - Rubin highlights how initial dislike can lead to appreciation for groundbreaking work.
• Quote 4: Leonard Bernstein (06:35) - Bernstein states that art provokes questions rather than providing answers, emphasizing artistic tension.
• Quote 5: Willem Dafoe (07:55) - Dafoe remarks that the work itself is what sustains an artist, not financial rewards.
• Quote 6: George Pelecanos (09:13) - Pelecanos critiques audience demands, using pornography as a metaphor for storytelling constraints.
• Quote 7: David Geffen (10:42) - Geffen reflects on self-invention and the importance of dreaming big in personal reinvention.
• Quote 8: Derek Sivers (11:16) - Sivers asserts that mastery is earned through hard work, unaffected by wealth or privilege.
• Quote 9: Tom Wolfe (12:04) - Wolfe suggests that receiving hate is an indicator of pushing artistic boundaries.
• Quote 10: Jerry Seinfeld (12:54) - Seinfeld shares advice on embracing failure in creative endeavors to maintain authenticity.
• Bonus Quote: David Chase (13:09) - Chase discusses the persistence needed in the creative process before achieving success.
• Conclusion and Call to Action (14:17) - Douglas wraps up the episode, encouraging subscriptions and sharing thoughts on the podcast.

🎙 Douglas Vigliotti delves into the nonfiction anthology "Letters of Note: Correspondence Deserving of a Wider Audience," compiled by Sean Usher. Vigliotti highlights the anthology's significance, featuring letters from writers, artists, and historical figures like Hunter S. Thompson, Ernest Hemingway, Albert Einstein, and Queen Elizabeth. He shares his connection to the book and discusses some of his favorite quotes and passages, underscoring the value of personal letters in providing historical context.

✓ Sign up for the monthly newsletter at BooksforMen.org.

📚 Learn more about "Aristotle for Novelists" at AristotleforNovelists.com or READ IT NOW!

⚡️ Connect with the host on Instagram @douglasvigliotti or learn more about him at DouglasVigliotti.com.

🎧 Listen to Douglas Vigliotti's other podcast: Slightly Crooked: Good Stories, Told Well.

⭐️ Please consider sharing "Books for Men" with other men who enjoy reading, or subscribing and rating on your favorite podcast platform. Either goes a long way in helping new listeners find the show and inspire (more) men to read.

💥 TOPICS COVERED IN THE EPISODE:

• Introduction to the Book (00:09) - Douglas introduces the nonfiction anthology "Letters of Note" and its significance.
• About the Compiler (01:15) - Discussion about Sean Usher, the compiler of the anthology, and his blog's popularity.
• Personal Connection to the Book (02:34) - Douglas shares his reasons for picking up the book, highlighting letters from Hunter S. Thompson and Hemingway.
• Genre of the Anthology (03:40) - Exploration of the anthology genre and the value of firsthand accounts in understanding history.
• Notable Letters in the Book (04:57) - Overview of various interesting letters included in the anthology, featuring famous figures.
• Sharing Passages and Quotes (07:09) - Douglas begins sharing impactful quotes from the letters, starting with Hunter S. Thompson.
• Hemingway's Advice to Fitzgerald (08:09) - Discussion of Hemingway's letter and his thoughts on authenticity in writing.
• Bukowski on Censorship (09:20) - Insight into Bukowski's views on censorship and the importance of confronting reality.
• Flannery O'Connor on Fiction (10:33) - Flannery O'Connor's perspective on the interpretation of fiction and its emotional impact.
• Kurt Vonnegut on Free Ideas (11:43) - Vonnegut's quote emphasizing the importance of allowing diverse ideas to circulate in society.
• Steinbeck's Letter to His Son (12:50) - Steinbeck's heartfelt advice about young love and the importance of patience.
• Rainer Maria Rilke's Writing Advice (12:50) - Rilke's encouragement to delve deep into one's motivations for writing.
• Ronald Reagan's Marriage Advice (14:22) - Reagan's reflections on the challenges of maintaining love and attraction in a long-term relationship.
• Conclusion and Call to Action (15:28) - Douglas wraps up the episode, encouraging listeners to subscribe and engage with the podcast.