Top Picks: May '21 Monthly Favorites

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Book: The Happiest Man on Earth
   • 2.1 Eddie Yaku's Fascinating Story
   • 2.2 Struggles and Challenges as a Jew in Germany
   • 2.3 Moments of Highs and Lows
   • 2.4 The Art of Acceptance and Gratitude
   • 2.5 Similarities to Nelson Mandela's Journey
3. The TV Series: Devils
   • 3.1 Plot Summary and Characters
   • 3.2 Dirty Tactics and Dodgy Dealings
   • 3.3 Comparison to Other Finance-Based Series
4. The Podcast: Sneakernomics
   • 4.1 Exploring the Backstory of Sneakers
   • 4.2 The Sustainability Factor
   • 4.3 Insights into Famous Brands and Endorsements
5. Conclusion

The Happiest Man on Earth: A Fascinating Tale of Survival and Gratitude

The book I want to talk to You about is called "The Happiest Man on Earth" by Eddie Yaku. This incredible memoir documents Eddie's journey of evading the Nazis, surviving concentration camps, and ultimately finding happiness and gratitude in every day of his life. Recommended to me by my sister-in-law, Catherine, this book had a profound impact on me.

Eddie's story is both mind-blowing and disconcerting, especially for someone like me who has grown up without experiencing war. The struggles and challenges he and his family faced as Jews in Germany during World War II are unfathomable. From moments of escape and reunion to the heart-wrenching separation in concentration camps, Eddie's journey showcases the resilience of the human spirit.

Reading this book, I couldn't help but draw parallels between Eddie's journey and that of Nelson Mandela. Both faced immense persecution but chose to let go, heal, and find happiness. Eddie's ability to turn his past into a source of gratitude and appreciation for life is truly staggering.

"The Happiest Man on Earth" is not a lengthy book, but its impact is profound. Through Eddie's storytelling, readers gain a new perspective on the atrocities of war, the power of resilience, and the importance of finding happiness amidst adversity. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking inspiration and a deeper understanding of the triumph of the human spirit.

Devils: A Riveting Journey into the World of High Finance

If you're a fan of finance-based TV series like "Billions" and "Succession," then "Devils" is a must-watch. Set in a fictional investment bank based in London's Canary Wharf, this gripping series revolves around the power struggles between Dominic Morgan, the chief executive, and Massimo Reguero, a potential heir apparent.

"Devils" delves into the intricate world of investment banking, exposing the dirty tactics and dodgy dealings that take place behind closed doors. The 10-episode series takes viewers on a rollercoaster ride of mystery, intrigue, backstabbing, and unexpected twists. As someone with some experience in the financial industry, albeit not in investment banking, I found the portrayal of the industry and its complexities fascinating.

While some reviews may criticize "Devils" for not meeting certain standards, I wholeheartedly disagree. The series offers easy-watching entertainment, with stellar performances from the cast, particularly Patrick Dempsey as Dominic Morgan. As of now, "Devils" consists of a single season, and I eagerly await a potential Second season to further explore the gripping world of high finance.

If you have access to platforms like Sky or other streaming services, I highly recommend giving "Devils" a chance. It's a captivating addition to the genre of finance-based TV series, offering thrills, drama, and an inside look into the cutthroat world of investment banking.

Sneakernomics: Exploring the Fascinating Story of Sneakers

Ever wondered about the history and impact of sneakers? The podcast series "Sneakernomics" delves into the backstory of these iconic footwear pieces, exploring how they changed the world of sports and fashion. Hosted by industry experts, the podcast takes listeners on a journey through sneaker culture and its significance in popular culture.

Through "Sneakernomics," I learned intriguing facts about the rise of certain brands, such as Adidas and Nike, and their battles for market dominance. The podcast also uncovers the sustainable practices behind some sneaker brands, like Veja, which ethically sources materials from Brazil. It's fascinating to see how the sneaker industry has thrived without heavy advertising, relying on quality and ethical practices instead.

The podcast also delves into the endorsements and collaborations that have Shaped sneaker culture, such as Air Jordan's partnership with Michael Jordan and the influence of pop culture on sneaker trends. Additionally, lesser-known stories like the origin of the UK brand Reebok add depth to the narrative.

"Sneakernomics" is a well-produced podcast series that offers insights into the world of sneakers, transcending its status as mere footwear. Whether you're a sneaker enthusiast or simply curious about the cultural impact of these shoes, I highly recommend giving this podcast a listen.

Conclusion

In this month's favorites, I shared my recommendations for a book, TV series, and podcast. "The Happiest Man on Earth" offers a captivating and inspirational story of survival and gratitude. "Devils" takes viewers on a thrilling ride through the high-stakes world of investment banking. Lastly, "Sneakernomics" podcast provides intriguing insights into the history and cultural significance of sneakers.

These three recommendations offer a diverse range of entertainment and education. From personal journeys to tales of power struggles and sneaker culture, each of them provides a unique experience for the audience. I hope you enjoy exploring these recommendations and find them as enriching as I did.