The Lead Digest: AI in the North, quarter zips and Peter Mandelson
Our round-up by The Lead’s team of what we’ve been reading, listening to, scrolling and watching each week.
Here at The Lead, we like to consume just as much as we create, which is why we spend a little time each week rounding up our favourite stories, books, podcasts and films we’ve been enjoying.
Ella read Junglist, a cult novel first published in the mid-nineties and again in 2021. It’s a short, stream-of-consciousness novel about four young men as they come of age at the height of the jungle explosion in London. She wrote a longer review on her Substack. She also enjoyed this very colourful Dispatch Media article on the fake freedom of California’s Slab City.
Ed recommends Future North’s recent article on AI and tech infrastructure in the North, which explores how, as the rush for AI happens, placing critical infrastructure and investment beyond the South East is a good way to address historical imbalances.
Natalie enjoyed this short, sharp episode of NPR's Code Switch, discussing the ubiquitous quarter-zip jumper, Black fashion and the decades-old debate over respectability politics. A perfect listen while you're making dinner.
Luke’s recommendation this week is that people check out The Valleys Lead, under the stewardship of Lauren Crosby Medlicott. She’s already published some great stories, on the gorgeous mountains made ugly by flytipping, and the children forced to walk miles and miles to school after a change in school transport.
Padraig enjoyed Laura Kuenssberg’s exploration of Reform UK on BBC Two, which asked whether it can really evolve into a credible party.
Finally, Zoë recommends this great piece in the New Statesman by Ailbhe Rea on Mandelson’s influence in Keir Starmer’s government.
Watched, read or listened to something you think we’d like to feature? Drop ella@thelead.uk a line and we will consider for inclusion. And feel free to share this post to a friend or family member who you think needs some reading or listening inspiration!