Our Writers Recommend...(29/3/21)

BOOK: 'Daisy Jones & The Six' by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Daisy Jones & The Six is one of those rare reads that exceeds the hype it has received since its publication. In this fictional book, Taylor Jenkins Reid writes about the rise and fall of the title’s namesake band. It is simultaneously a fictional autobiography, a polyvocal narration, and an ode to rock and roll. Trust me when I say the only thing you will regret about picking up this book is when you inevitably have to put it down.

Emma Gill

DOCUMENTARY: Louis Theroux: Transgender Kids

Available on BBC iPlayer and Netflix.

In this 2015 documentary Theroux travels to San Francisco, where he meets a number of medical professionals who work with children and teenagers who are struggling with gender dysphoria. There is much debate regarding the age at which children should be allowed to start taking hormone blockers or begin transitioning, and this documentary approaches this subject with sensitivity and insightfulness. Theroux has a number of incredibly personal conversations with parents and children who are currently navigating this life-changing journey and ultimately, this is a heartwarming and eye-opening watch that I highly recommend to anyone.

Ellie Williamson

PODCAST: Today in Focus by The Guardian

The Guardian’s daily podcast, Today in Focus, is a fantastic way to keep up with current affairs. Each episode is around half an hour long and focuses on a specific news story or debate, consisting of interviews and news snippets to give you a concise overview of the topic at hand. Recent episodes have included ‘What do progressives make of Joe Biden’s presidency so far?’, ‘Is it time to abolish the monarchy?’ and ‘The great global vaccine divide’. It’s perfect for the morning walk and an easy, enjoyable way to stay up to date with the news.

Ellie Williamson

DOCUMENTARY: Roman Kemp: Our Silent Emergency

Available on BBC iPlayer.

This hour long BBC documentary follows Roman Kemp as he explores the male mental health and suicide crisis across the UK. It is an extremely personal piece from Kemp, as he explains his own experience of losing his best friend to suicide in August this year, but also touches on a few other tragic stories from a range of men who have gone through a similar experience. It is a really great eye opener, to both male and female viewers, and one that can hopefully spark a much needed conversation amongst young men. 

​Angus Muir