Share
Stories Behind the Story with Better Reading
Zack McDermott
•
Zack McDermott, Brooklyn public defender turned author, joins Cheryl Akle to discuss his memoir Gorilla and the Bird, a book that details his recovery after a devastating psychotic break. Together they discuss the stigma surrounding mental illness, and the steps he now takes to maintain his mental health.
More episodes
View all episodes
Stories Behind the Story: Ariane Beeston on motherhood, madness and coming back from the brink
34:18Ariane Beeston talks to Cheryl Akle about the pressures of motherhood and her experience with postpartum psychosis. Her memoir, Because I'm Not Myself, You See, is out now.
Stories Behind the Story: Barbara Sumner on the forgotten female convicts of colonial Australia
31:55Barbara Sumner talks to Cheryl Akle about her unique path to publication and what inspired her to write her striking debut novel, The Gallows Bird, which is out now.
Stories Behind the Story: Venita Dimos on the vital skills children learn through reading
35:34Venita Dimos talks to Cheryl Akle about the power of children’s fiction and how her Mini & Milo series teaches vital skills for childhood development.
Stories Behind the Story: Garry Disher on his unique approach to crime fiction
30:22Bestselling author Garry Disher talks to Cheryl Akle about his research process and approach to writing crime fiction. His latest novel, Sanctuary, is out now.
Stories Behind the Story: Geoffrey Robertson on The Trial of Vladimir Putin
30:40Geoffrey Robertson QC talks to Cheryl Akle about his unique perspective on Vladimir Putin, international law and human rights. His latest book, The Trial of Vladimir Putin, is out now.
Stories Behind the Story: Diane Armstrong on what makes historical fiction personal
31:38Diane Armstrong talks to Cheryl Akle about focusing on the personal aspect of history and the incredible woman who inspired her latest novel, The Wild Date Palm, which is out now.
Stories Behind the Story: Bradley Trevor Greive on how we find our way back from tragedy
37:14Bradley Trevor Grieve talks to Cheryl Akle about what makes a story feel personal and how he chooses his projects. His latest book, Broken Girl, is out now.
BE Better: Tim Duggan on how to Work Backwards
30:47BE Better: Better Reading’s Self-Development & Wellness podcast – Tim Duggan talks to Jane about finding work-life balance in simple yet radical ways. His book, Work Backwards, is out now.
Stories Behind the Story: Sarah Bailey on how she reconnected with her love of writing
29:53Sarah Bailey talks to Cheryl Akle about reconnecting with her love of writing and her journey to publication. Her latest thrilling novel, Body of Lies, is out now.