IMPACT’s summer holiday recommendations
18.12.2024

As the holiday season arrives, we’ve put together our top picks for all your reading, watching and listening needs this summer. From comedy to history to romance, IMPACT has got something for everyone to enjoy during their well-deserved break.  

Books 

Rich Woman, Poor Woman by Pascale Helyar-Moray 

This guide empowers women to understand and optimise their superannuation, paving the way for financial independence. 

Women Rising by Megan Dalla-Camina  

Discover how to identify and resist the societal forces that limit women’s professional and personal growth. 

Intermezzo by Sally Rooney  

Rooney’s fourth novel is a poignant exploration of grief, love, and family dynamics. 

Light From Uncommon Stars by Ryka Aoki  

This award-winning science fiction and fantasy novel by Ryka Aoki, an acclaimed author and poet, tackles themes of identity and belonging 

Green Dot by Madeleine Grey  

A captivating and often humorous exploration of self-discovery, this novel delves into the messy realities of pursuing desires that may not fulfil us. 

The Satsuma Complex by Bob Mortimer  

This debut novel from this beloved comedian is a hilarious and page-turning story filled with unforgettable characters 

Blue Sisters by Coco Mellors  

Three estranged siblings are forced to confront the complexities of their family and the weight of grief after the loss of their beloved sister. 

The Resilience Project: Finding Happiness Through Gratitude, Empathy and Mindfulness by Hugh van Cuylenburg 

This inspiring guide provides practical strategies for cultivating happiness and well-being through mindfulness practices. 

Kitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly by Anthony Bourdain  

A raw and unflinching memoir that offers an unfiltered look at the realities of working in high-end restaurant kitchens. 

Darling Girls by Sally Hepworth 

This thrilling page-turner from the New York Times bestselling author explores the dark underbelly of sisterhood, secrets, and a shocking murder. 

Movies and Television  

Love Actually (available on Stan, Paramount+, Binge, Foxtel and Amazon Prime Video)   

This beloved and modern Christmas classic film explores the complexities of love and relationships through a series of interwoven stories set during the Christmas season in London. 

Last Christmas (available on Netflix, Paramount+, Stan and Amazon Prime Video) 

A cynical young woman working as an elf finds her life unexpectedly transformed by a kind and mysterious stranger in this heartwarming holiday film. 

The Man Who Invented Christmas (available on SBS)  

This film delves into the creative process of Charles Dickens as he draws inspiration from his own life to write the enduring classic, “A Christmas Carol”. 

Black Doves (available on Netflix) 

A thrilling spy thriller that follows a British agent who uncovers a global conspiracy after her lover is assassinated. 

How to Make Gravy (available on Foxtel and Binge) 

Based on Paul Kelly’s hit song of the same name, this poignant film follows a prisoner’s longing for his family during Christmas, particularly the cherished tradition of making roast gravy. 

A Moody Christmas (available on ABC iview and Amazon Prime Video) 

A comedic drama series depicting the chaotic Christmas celebrations of the eccentric Moody family, filled with family feuds, awkward gifts, and hidden secrets. 

Wicked (currently in cinemas) 

This reimagining of the classic Wizard of Oz story offers a deeper look at the lives and relationships of the witches, Elphaba and Galinda, before their iconic fates. 

Perfect Days (available on Stan) 

A meditative film that follows a Tokyo toilet cleaner who finds contentment in simple pleasures and unexpected encounters. 

Say Nothing (available on Disney+) 

A powerful series exploring the tragic impact of The Troubles in Northern Ireland, beginning with the disappearance of Jean McConville, a single mother of 10 children. 

Podcasts  

Making an IMPACT  

You know we couldn’t miss plugging our own podcast! Hosted by IMPACT CEO, Nicole Webb, join us as we explore the emerging and evolving world of the communications and marketing industries. Check out our latest Year in Review episode here.  

Table Manners with Jessie and Lennie Ware  

Jessie Ware and her mother, Lennie, invite guests from various fields to their dinner table for intimate conversations and delicious home-cooked meals. 

Shameless  

Hosted by Michelle Andrews and Zara McDonald, Shameless is a comedic podcast that dives into the week’s biggest pop culture stories with wit and irreverence. 

Desert Island Discs   

A long-running interview program where guests choose eight pieces of music that have profoundly impacted their lives. 

The Basement Yard   

Childhood friends and comedians, Joe Santagato and Frank Alvarez, host The Basement Yard, a podcast where they engage in humorous and often pointless arguments. 

British Scandal 

This podcast dives into the dark underbelly of British power, exploring historical scandals that toppled governments and exposed the human stories at their core. 

AdMission 

This podcast provides an insider’s look at the advertising world, featuring insights from industry veteran Russell Howcroft and rising star Freddie Young. 

Other News