Entertainment

Australian feminist Clementine Ford is well known for her no-holds-barred view on the patriarchy, and I Don’t might be her most unflinching takedown yet. Across the book’s four sections – something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue – Ford unpacks different facets of the age-old institution, including its history, mythology and depictions in media and pop culture. Along the way, each element is infused with Ford’s fiery discussion on the myriad ways that marriage (and the folklore surrounding it) has worked to promote men’s interests at the expense of women since time immemorial. If you’re looking for some bright sides, you won’t find any here. For Ford, marriage is beyond redemption and something women should avoid at all costs. It’s so bold that the book starts with some caveats, including that it’s not intended as a personal dig at anyone who’s tied the knot. Although it’s probably not the book for those who are easily rattled (she often emphasises her points with a liberal smattering of swear words) it’s well researched and thought-provoking and will shine a light on a side of marriage you probably haven’t thought of.

The first biography to focus solely on one side of the famous Split Enz duo, Don’t Dream It’s Over spans more than 40 years of the celebrated musician’s career. In tried-and-true biography style, it sticks to chronological order, starting with the Neil’s Catholic childhood in Te Awamutu before moving on to his earliest musical beginnings in a high school band. Things suddenly ramp up, however, when Neil is invited by older brother Tim to join Split Enz, and the then-21-year-old surprises everyone by penning the band’s first number one single and biggest ever hit, I Got You. The Crowded House years highlight Neil’s irrepressible drive for success and the impact of the tragic death of bandmate Paul Hester. But perhaps the most interesting aspect is Neil’s complex and often turbulent relationship with Tim, which is hinted at throughout the book. Weaving in music trivia and minute detail, author Jeff Apter (who has crafted more than 30 biographies to date) is writing for the fans with this one and is clearly a fan himself.

As the fourth book from former podcast host, turned novelist turned Sunday Times agony aunt Dolly Alderton, Good Material is an easy mix of all the author’s favourite topics. The action centres on protagonist Andy, a C-list stand-up comedian, and Jen, a corporate type, and their sudden breakup. Told mainly through the eyes of Andy, the story kicks off with his booze-filled laments about being dumped by the love of his life before moving through various darkly comical stages of mourning, including social media stalking, ultimately unhelpful pep talks from mates and an ill-fated health kick. It reads like the script of a classic British rom-com film or Nick Hornby novel (think High Fidelity or About a Boy), and the quick and witty banter between the characters has the vibe of Alderton’s podcast days. Thankfully, we get to hear Jen’s side of the story, although not until the very end, but it’s a satisfying way to round off the tale and acts as the perfect narrative device to tie up loose threads. With its gentle, self-deprecating dialogue, quirky twists and down-to-earth dramas peppered throughout, it’s a book that’s not trying to send a bold statement or reinvent the wheel, but it’s perfect as a warm fuzzy weekend read.

If cooler weather has you back on the true crime podcast buzz, RedHanded strikes the perfect balance between well-researched detail without too much unnecessary gore. And while there are more than enough podcasts devoted to American serial killers, RedHanded spans across British and European cases alongside big name American crims. Delivered in storytime-style by the two female hosts, it looks back at older cases, like a 1977 church shooting that captured the attention of author Harper Lee, as well as contemporary crimes, like last year’s killer nurse Lucy Letby, and the 2021 Sarah Everard case that prompted a shake-up among London police. There’s even the odd New Zealand-based case in the mix, including an episode on the Bain family murders. Each episode is about an hour long, and the extensive back catalogue makes it ideal for weekend bingeing.

Want to boost your general knowledge but don’t have time to pore over history books or watch documentaries? After a few episodes of this podcast, you’ll be wowing everyone with your fascinating factoids and pub quiz prowess. Whether you’re interested in the back story of historical monarchs and famous figures, you fancy learning more about famous landmarks and world wonders or you just want a quick lesson on Alexander the Great or the paintings of Frida Kahlo, the extensive back catalogue means there is something for everyone. While the narration (by British actor John Hopkins) can sound serious, there are plenty of lighter topics in the mix too, like how Las Vegas became Sin City, and how many gemstones make up the Crown Jewels.

Hosted by cognitive scientist, entrepreneur and author Gary Marcus, Humans vs Machines takes a look at the promise and pitfalls of artificial intelligence. While the subject might sound dry, Marcus and his special guests are experts at bringing science to life, mixing entertainment with fascinating and easy-to-follow commentary. Across the 28-part series, topics include AI’s role in finding a cure for health issues including Alzheimer’s disease and chronic pain syndrome, how modern tech is changing our brain, what could happen if AI turns nasty and, of course, how the future might look with AI threatening our jobs.