Book Club: The Life List by Lori Nelson Spielman

Alex and Julie dive into Lori Nelson Spielman's The Life List, a novel that deeply resonates with themes of self-discovery, healing, friendship, and love. The story follows Brett, a woman who is required to complete a list of life goals she wrote as a teenager in order to inherit her late mother's fortune. Through this emotional journey, Brett reconnects with old friends, learns the truth about her biological father, rediscovers her passion for teaching, and gains clarity about real love and healthy relationships.

They explore pivotal themes such as:

• Grief and Closure: Brett’s journey helps her make peace with her mother’s secrets and complicated past.
• Rebuilding Relationships: Brett heals her bond with her half-sister and an estranged best friend, Carrie.
• Self-Worth and Strength: She confronts betrayal by her boyfriend and so-called best friend, Megan, ultimately taking back her power by reclaiming her possessions and donating them to help others.
• Dreams vs. Reality: She revisits her failed dream of becoming a teacher and redefines it in an unconventional and fulfilling way.
• Lifelong Friendship: Alex and Julie reflect on how meaningful friendships—especially those formed in youth—remain deep and lasting.

They wrap up the episode with personal reflections on their own “life lists,” the evolving nature of dreams, and how meaningful it is to be present for children and grandchildren. They also share excitement for the next book: Too Late by Colleen Hoover and recommend Say You’ll Remember Me by Abby Jiménez as another emotional, character-driven read.