In this week’s episode, Kayla and Taylor discuss Xochitl Gonzalez’s 2026 novel Last Night in Brooklyn. Topics include the Great Gatsby parallels, bringing previous book characters back (oh hi Lily King), different types of privilege, brunch confrontations, nostalgia for the cities you lived in, early 2000s Muse and Shiny Toy Guns, Alicia’s journey, and the illusion of freedom wealth brings. Plus, we talk about the Netflix adaptation of Remarkably Bright Creatures.

This week’s drink: Bensonhurst via Difford’s Guide

INGREDIENTS 

• 1 1⁄2 oz Straight rye whiskey
• 1⁄3 oz Luxardo Maraschino liqueur
• 1 oz Dry Vermouth
• 1⁄6 oz Cynar or other carciofo amaro
• Maraschino cherry, for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Chill a coupe glass
2. Stir all ingredients with ice and strain into the chilled glass
3. Garnish with a maraschino cherry

Current/recommended reads, links, etc.:

Lit Hub Best of the Best Books Summer Reading Challenge

Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit by Jeanette Winterson

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Join us next time as we read Holes by Louis Sachar