In this bonus episode, Michelle and Caitlin share some of their favourite non-fiction reads from 2021 just in time for #NonFictionNovember.

Before we get into our recommendations, here are some of the books we've discussed and featured on the podcast in 2021...

• Trivial  Grievances by Bridie Jabour (listen)
• The First Time I Thought I Was Dying by Sarah Walker (listen)
• Every Lie I've Ever Told by Rosie Waterland (listen) 
• Cultish by Amanda Montell (listen)

Michelle's recommendations

The Five by Hallie Rubenhold: This is a fascinating historical examination of the five women murdered by Jack the Ripper.  It is a vivid and intricate portrayal of the social issues in Victorian England. 

No Shame by Tom Allen: Delightful memoir from a brilliant comedic mind. 

Adventures in Opting Out by Cait Flanders: An alternative self-help novel about how we can walk a new path in our lives, one that others may not expect us to take, written through the lens of hiking. 

Caitlin's recommendations:

Love Stories by Trent Dalton: Believe the hype! This is a beautiful, sweet book that will revive your faith in humanity. (Note: Caitlin's work at Harper Collins Australia did not influence her opinion of this book). 

488 Rules for Life by Kitty Flanagan: Laugh-out-loud funny and relatable 'rules' for living (and not annoying the hell out of others)

The Office by Andy Greene: A fascinating oral history of the show from its beginnings to massive popularity. 

Books we want to read soon...

• How to Be Perfect: The Correct Answer to Every Moral Question by Michael Schur
• Sex and the City and Us by Jennifer Keishin Armstrong
• Parsnips, Buttered by Joe Lycett
• A Class Act by Rob Beckett

Other things mentioned:

• Hallie Rubenhold was viciously trolled after publication of The Five
• More books about The Office: Welcome to Dunder Mifflin by  Brian Baumgartner and Ben Silverman, and The Office BFFs: Tales of The Office from Two Best Friend by Angela Kinsey and Jenna Fischer
• Joe Lycett takes on a Gumtree scammer