Shortform Books

About the Axeman, New Orleans’ Notorious Serial Killer

The silhouette of a man holding an axe at night looking at the city of New Orleans

What do we know about the Axeman, New Orleans’ most famous serial killer? Why was he associated with jazz? The Axeman, New Orleans’ notorious serial killer of 1918-1919, targeted primarily Italian women. We know that he would use the victims’ own axes to commit his murders, and that he wrote a public letter declaring that those who played jazz out of their homes would be safe. Read more about the true story of this vicious killer, based on an episode of Morbid: A True Crime Podcast.

A People’s History of the Cold War (Howard Zinn)

A depiction of the White House and the Kremlin across the street from each other illustrates the history of the Cold War

What’s the history of the Cold War from “the people’s” perspective? What was it really about? Howard Zinn portrays the Cold War as a strategic endeavor by American elites to curb communism’s influence while safeguarding financial interests. The CIA’s covert operations and the Vietnam War showcase the lengths to which the US went to maintain dominance and thwart perceived threats. Read more to get Zinn’s take on this prolonged ideological conflict that dominated much of the 20th century.

2024 East Palestine, Ohio Train Derailment Updates

Two members of the Ohio National Guard wearing hazmat suits after the East Palestine train derailment

Looking for East Palestine, Ohio train derailment updates? How are the cleanup efforts going? How was the local community affected? A year after a catastrophic train derailment in Ohio led to a massive chemical spill, clean-up efforts are nearing conclusion—but health concerns linger. While government officials assert that the environment is safe, some East Palestine residents remain concerned. Below is a look at the steps that have been taken to manage the derailment fallout and a look at the regulatory actions that have been implemented since.

The Manipulative Patterns in Ted Bundy’s Relationships

What were the red flags in Ted Bundy’s relationships? How did he live a double life with his girlfriends? Bundy’s relationships with women, particularly his partners Elizabeth Kendall and Stephanie Brooks, reveal a pattern of manipulation and deception. According to the Morbid podcast, he sought revenge post-breakup and maintained a facade during his killing spree. Continue reading to learn more about how Bundy manipulated so many women.

How to Deal With Procrastination by Asking Questions

Why is asking questions important? How does confusion cause procrastination? Sometimes, you procrastinate when you aren’t sure what to do—or, more often, you aren’t sure how to do it. Thankfully, the solution is equally straightforward: Usually, a few simple questions will clear up any confusion so that you can proceed confidently. Continue reading to learn how to deal with procrastination by being openly curious.

The History of the Liberty Bell: From the Revolutionary War to WWI

The history of the Liberty Bell illustrated through its hanging in Independence Hall in Philadelphia

Where does the history of the Liberty Bell begin? Where is it now? The history of the Liberty Bell starts in 1751, when it was forged on the eve of the Revolutionary War. Since, it has become relevant in many periods of American history, such as during the abolitionist movement and later World War I. Read on to understand the depth of the significance of the Liberty Bell in history, as recounted on the Stuff You Should Know podcast.

Patrick McKeown’s Breathing Exercises for Better Comfort

A woman with her eyes closed, performing a breathing exercise while meditating.

Why should you reduce your breathing rate? What’s the top Patrick McKeown breathing exercise? According to Patrick McKeown, breathing is for much more than just survival. Improper breathing can disrupt your day-to-day life, even disrupting your sleep and overall health. Let’s see why McKeown is adamant about proper breathing, as discussed on The Mel Robbins Podcast.

Is Being Famous Worth It? See What the Bad Friends Podcast Says

A fashion model posing on the runway as people take pictures of her, questioning if being famous is worth it.

Is being famous worth it? How hard is it to become successful in the entertainment industry? Becoming a household name in the entertainment industry is one of the toughest jobs out there. But even when you hit your desired level of success, being famous isn’t as glamorous as you think it is. Continue reading to learn why the Bad Friends podcast says fame might not be all it’s made out to be.

Who Is Larry Elder? Understanding Conservative Politics

Larry Elder, conservative media figure, speaking on stage dressed in a suit

Who is Larry Elder? What’s his perspective on the current political climate? Larry Elder is a conservative podcast host and public figure who has provided support for politicians including Donald Trump and Ron Desantis. Elder works to counter what he sees as a negative media portrayal of conservatives on an episode of the PBD Podcast. Here is some context for what Larry Elder thinks and what his arguments are.

Looking Back on the Kanye West-Adidas Contract Negotiations

How did Adidas deal with Kanye West’s controversies over the years? What were the partners’ requests during contract negotiations? In 2016, Kanye West found himself in a growing number of controversies. The Daily breaks down how Adidas dealt with the backlash by reevaluating the Kanye West-Adidas contract that year. Learn more about Adidas’s attempt to do damage control to save the company.