297 episodes

Hey I'm Kyrin and I review books of all genres/styles but with an emphasis on those that have stood the test of time (i.e., not recent releases). Join me as I cover the basic details before diving into the themes, ideas and learnings we can take away from the fascinating realm of literature. Weekly live episode on Thurs 10am AEST (Wed/Thurs Midnight UTC+0) plus bonus episodes from my cohost Juan every now and then.

Mere Mortals Book Reviews Kyrin Down & Juan Granados

    • Arts
    • 5.0 • 10 Ratings

Hey I'm Kyrin and I review books of all genres/styles but with an emphasis on those that have stood the test of time (i.e., not recent releases). Join me as I cover the basic details before diving into the themes, ideas and learnings we can take away from the fascinating realm of literature. Weekly live episode on Thurs 10am AEST (Wed/Thurs Midnight UTC+0) plus bonus episodes from my cohost Juan every now and then.

    Be Useful, Goddammit | Be Useful (Arnold Schwarzenegger) BOOK REVIEW

    Be Useful, Goddammit | Be Useful (Arnold Schwarzenegger) BOOK REVIEW

    Be Useful extends beyond mere autobiography to offer a blueprint for practical action and personal success. "Be Useful" is structured around pivotal themes like having a clear vision, the power of persistence, and the importance of community and support networks. At 260 pages, the book is an engaging read filled with actionable advice, personal anecdotes from Schwarzenegger's multifaceted life as a bodybuilder, actor, and governor, and reflections on setbacks and strategic successes. While it intertwines stories of resilience and the joys of giving back, Schwarzenegger emphasizes that everyone can make impactful contributions, not just celebrities. This book is recommended for those seeking a blend of motivation and real-world strategies to enhance their effectiveness and purpose in life.Timeline:(0:00) - Introduction(1:22) - Core themes(3:14) - Insights on success(5:15) - Stories of resilience(6:31) - Strategic success and influence(9:19) - ConclusionValue 4 Value Support:Boostagram: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/supportPaypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcastConnect with Mere Mortals:Website: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/Discord: https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReUInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcast

    • 11 min
    Unlocking Life's Lessons from 'Endure' by Cameron Hanes | Mere Mortals Key Takeaways

    Unlocking Life's Lessons from 'Endure' by Cameron Hanes | Mere Mortals Key Takeaways

    Dive into the core lessons extracted from Cameron Hanes's "Endure" in this special edition of Mere Mortals. From embracing the grind to finding strength in suffering, we explore six pivotal takeaways that resonate beyond the realms of ultra-running and bow hunting. Whether it's the power of action over words, the unforeseen teachings of life's dark moments, or the essence of unwavering commitment, these insights challenge us to reflect on our personal journeys. Join us as we dissect the nuances of perseverance, discipline, and the mental fortitude required to push beyond our limits. Share your thoughts and insights in the comments below!00:23: Learning #1: The Power of Action and Living in the Present01:33: Learning #2: Life's Unpredictable Struggles and Dark Lessons03:37: Learning #3: The Significance of Work Ethic and Loyalty06:05: Learning #4: Misery Loves Company - Shared Suffering as Connection09:11: Learning #5: Perseverance and the Joy of the Chase in Running13:14: Learning #6: Mental Strength and Overcoming Invisible Barriers17:21: Reflections and Closing Thoughts on "Endure"Value 4 Value Support:Boostagram: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/support (https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/support)Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcast (https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcast)Connect With the Mere Mortals:Website: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/ (https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/)Discord: https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReU (https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReU)Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/meremortalspod (https://twitter.com/meremortalspod)Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcast/ (https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcast/)TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcast (https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcast)

    • 18 min
    The Spirit Of The Japanese Poem | Japanese Death Poems (Yoel Hoffmann) LEARNINGS

    The Spirit Of The Japanese Poem | Japanese Death Poems (Yoel Hoffmann) LEARNINGS

    I explore the themes and insights from the book 'Japanese Death Poems' by Yoel Hoffman. I discussed the spirit of the Japanese people, their ability to embrace opposing ideas, and the complexity and simplicity of reality. I share selected death poems and provides analysis on their meaning. Reflecting on the fleeting nature of life and the importance of cherishing each moment. Finally, the delusion of death poems and emphasizing the value of embracing imperfection and taking action in life.Timeline:(0:00) - Introduction and Purpose(1:04) - The Spirit of the Japanese(3:53) - Selected Poems and Analysis(9:40) - The Last Day and the Delusion of Death Poems(12:51) - Conclusion and TakeawaysValue 4 Value Support:Boostagram: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/support (https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/support)Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcast (https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcast)Connect with Mere Mortals:Website: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/ (https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/)Discord: https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReU (https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReU)Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/meremortalspod (https://twitter.com/meremortalspod)Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcast/ (https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcast/)TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcast (https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcast)

    • 13 min
    Unravel The Soul's Final Whisper | Japanese Death Poems (Yoel Hoffmann) BOOK REVIEW

    Unravel The Soul's Final Whisper | Japanese Death Poems (Yoel Hoffmann) BOOK REVIEW

    Japanese Death Poems by Yoel Hoffmann is a compelling anthology that explores the Japanese tradition of Jisei, or death poems. The book provides a deep dive into the cultural and historical significance of these poems, reflecting on the life, death, and impermanence of existence through the lens of Zen Buddhism. It is divided into three main sections: an introduction, death poems by Zen monks, and death poems by haiku poets. While the book may not offer practical takeaways, it offers a somber and thought-provoking perspective on life and death.Takeaways:Japanese Death Poems offers a unique insight into the cultural and historical significance of Jisei, or death poems.The book is structured into three main sections: an introduction, death poems by Zen monks, and death poems by haiku poets.Readers should approach the book with the expectation of philosophical contemplation rather than practical takeaways.Japanese Death Poems is recommended for those interested in exploring somber and thought-provoking perspectives on life and death.Timeline:(0:00) - Introduction to Japanese Death Poems(1:04) - Structure of the Book(3:31) - Structure of the Poems(4:30) - Understanding the Purpose of Death Poems(5:00) - Expectations and Practicality(6:17) - Recommendation and Reflection(7:35) - Summary and Final ThoughtsValue 4 Value Support:Boostagram: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/support (https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/support)Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcast (https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcast)Connect with Mere Mortals:Website: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/ (https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/)Discord: https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReU (https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReU)Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/meremortalspod (https://twitter.com/meremortalspod)Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcast/ (https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcast/)TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcast (https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcast)

    • 8 min
    Chivalry At It's Finest | Sir Gawain And The Green Knight (Unknown Poet) BOOK REVIEW

    Chivalry At It's Finest | Sir Gawain And The Green Knight (Unknown Poet) BOOK REVIEW

    Would you have the fortitude to stick to your principles, even in the face of certain death?'Sir Gawain And The Green Knight' by an unknown poet is a story from a 14th/15th century manuscript. It tells of Sir Gawain, a knight at Arthur's round table who accepts a challenge from a mysterious & magical being. This requires him to willingly offer up his life whilst first being tempted by the most beautiful lady in the land. I was surprised at how much I enjoyed this little ditty and is a great example of poetry told in alliterative verse.Would love to hear your feedback and appreciate any support you wish to give :)Timeline:(0:00) - Intro(4:10) - Themes/Questions(8:30) - Moral Learnings(19:21) - Author & Extras(23:28) - Summary(26:36) - Value 4 Value(28:33) - Join Live!Value 4 Value Support:Boostagram: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/support (https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/support)Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcast (https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcast)Connect with Mere Mortals:Website: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/ (https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/)Discord: https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReU (https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReU)Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/meremortalspod (https://twitter.com/meremortalspod)Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcast/ (https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcast/)TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcast (https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcast)

    • 29 min
    A Different Type Of Travel | The Innocents Abroad (Mark Twain) BOOK REVIEW

    A Different Type Of Travel | The Innocents Abroad (Mark Twain) BOOK REVIEW

    Let's travel back to the days when people didn't take offense so easily ...... or did they?'The Innocents Abroad' by Mark Twain is a compendium of his adventures whilst travelling for 5 months across Europe & The Middle East. It is told in his usual humorous style of witty anecdotes and droll sarcastic one-liners. The bulk of it relates to visiting historic landmarks & places of cultural significance, with some parts on the actual travel journey itself. During his life it became his best selling book, also becoming renowned in the travel genre as well.Would love to hear your feedback and appreciate any support you wish to give :)Timeline:(0:00) - Intro(2:45) - Themes/Questions(15:44) - Author & Extras(19:32) - Summary(23:29) - Value 4 Value(25:04) - Join Live!Value 4 Value Support:Boostagram: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/support (https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/support)Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcast (https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meremortalspodcast)Connect with Mere Mortals:Website: https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/ (https://www.meremortalspodcast.com/)Discord: https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReU (https://discord.gg/jjfq9eGReU)Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/meremortalspod (https://twitter.com/meremortalspod)Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcast/ (https://www.instagram.com/meremortalspodcast/)TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcast (https://www.tiktok.com/@meremortalspodcast)

    • 26 min

Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5
10 Ratings

10 Ratings

aliciakenworthy ,

Great reviews

I have “A Farewell to Arms” sitting on my bookshelf right now and listening to Kyrin talk about it clarified my decision as to whether I should actually pick it up. These reviews are great. The Aussie accent certainly doesn’t hurt!

Aguirre_edd ,

The quickie I always wanted!

First and foremost, Kyrin and Juan have a knack for making book reviews exciting and fun, something I would’ve never thought to be so entertaining.

As a light reader, it’s hard to come across a good book or recommendation when the options are endless. However, the way this is put together takes me on a short journey without giving away the context of the literature.

Keep it coming boys! This flesh ape is waiting for more!

Local Loner ,

Passionate with plenty of comedic relief

My favorite Aussie’s!!! Like myself, these guys have an intense appreciation for life and an unceasing curiosity about the world that surrounds us. Their passion is evident in every word they speak and a breath of fresh air in culture that gets overshadowed by likes and followers. Keep being different!
P.S. // 10 out of 10 recommend to ANY college student!

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