Where Book Apps Battle, a Rabbi Charms, and Mel Robbins Helps Us with the Let Them Theory
Monday #2 with M
Hi, and welcome to Monday #X with M. Each week, I’ll share some topics I’ve come across recently—an idea, article, or story—that caught my attention. I’ve learned so many interesting things from the people who’ve shared what they’ve found useful, and I consider that an act of kindness. This is my weekly care package to you, filled with thoughtful discoveries to start your week on a good note.
I’ve chosen the #X format because I sometimes struggle with consistency, and I thought seeing the number grow each week would motivate me to keep going. Let’s get into it!
Spotlight Three
I. Goodreads vs. Storygraph vs. Fable
It's that time of the year again when we're all setting our reading goals, and naturally, I got to thinking about how I'm going to approach mine. I had to go on my Goodreads account to verify this, but it has been 12 years since I started using this app. I remember my excitement when I discovered it and what a faithful companion it has been throughout my years of reading. The yearly goals have been eye-opening, and in some years, their results served as a wake-up call. One year ago, I heard about Storygraph, which had a similar concept to Goodreads but offers more in terms of stats and a breakdown of the genres and authors you read throughout the year, so it captivated me enough to give it a try. Then about 6 months ago, Fable gained traction in the news as a platform for tracking your reading and TV shows, creating book clubs, and more. So of course, I went and poked around a bit.
Now at the beginning of 2025, I think I have too many options on my hands, and this cannot go on. Bottom line: Goodreads will always have a special place in my heart - let's get that out of the way. It's given me so much throughout the years that I'm sticking with it. But when it comes to getting more out of an app experience, Fable is just more fun than Storygraph. It's more lively and colourful, gives you all the stats you get in Storygraph, and feels more like a community if you're into book clubs and all that stuff. So this year, I'm going with Goodreads and Fable. Check them out if you haven't - it's good fun.
II. The Let Them Theory
Mel Robbins’ The Let Them Theory, released on December 24th, is a game-changer, and I couldn’t put it down—I finished it in just two days. The book introduces a simple yet powerful mindset shift through two ideas: Let Them and Let Me. When you face situations out of your control, Let Them encourages you to step back, let others handle their own actions, and avoid unnecessary stress. Meanwhile, Let Me shifts the focus to what is within your control, helping you take charge of your happiness and well-being. It’s a refreshing approach that offers clarity in navigating relationships, friendships, and life’s many challenges.
One chapter that stood out to me dives into why friendships as adults feel so different from those in our younger years. Robbins explains that three pillars—proximity, timing, and energy—make friendships click, and as life changes, so do these factors. She challenges us to Let Them go when connections no longer serve us and to embrace Let Me by actively building the relationships we want. It’s an inspiring reminder that some of the best friendships of your life are still ahead, waiting for you to go first. I’ll be posting a more detailed review of this book on Thursday—feel free to check it out!
III. Nobody Wants This
You might have heard about this Netflix series by now, and you might think this is old news. But I wanted to write something about it forever and kept putting it off. This one has become one of my cherished series of the past years, and don't get too excited now - it's no Fleabag. It has a Hot Rabbi, inspired by our beautiful Hot Priest, but that's where the similarities end. It's the kind of series you binge-watch because it's so good, and the story warms your heart because, frankly, it's too good to be true. And the acting and chemistry? Whew, through the roof! No wonder both of them got nominated for the Golden Globes. All in all, it's an easy, comforting, sweet love story for when you feel life is beating you up.
Added Spark
Naturally Sweet: Oatmeal, Banana, and Apple Treat
Craving something sweet but trying to keep those sugar cravings in check? Cue oatmeal and banana with a hint of apple! Check out this simple recipe for a delicious and healthy treat.
Simone Biles and the GOAT Necklace
When Simone Biles stepped away from Olympic competition in 2021, she redefined what strength looks like in elite sports – showing us that sometimes the bravest thing isn't pushing through, but stepping back to breathe. Her return in 2023, which added even more medals to her record-breaking collection of 37, felt like a different kind of victory. Celebrating her position as the most decorated gymnast in history and claiming the title of the Greatest of All Time (GOAT), she showcased a goat-shaped necklace after winning three gold medals and one silver at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The necklace made headlines when it was revealed that Biles collaborated with a local jeweller in Southern California to design the piece, which features 546 diamonds. The jeweller shared that she has received thousands of requests for a replica of the pendant but refuses to create one, as the pendant, like Simone Biles herself, is one of a kind.
Words Worth Sharing
To those who no longer have a homeland, writing becomes home.
Theodore W. Adorno
This is it for this week’s edition of Monday #X with M. If something here made you think, smile, or sparked your curiosity, consider sharing it with someone who might enjoy it too. You never know whose day you might brighten with a thoughtful word or idea—it’s a small act of kindness that can go a long way. Happy New Year and See you next Monday!