Podcast Review: "If Books Could Kill" With Michael & Peter

14 May, 2025

Do you ever wonder if the books lining airport shelves are more harmful than helpful? "If Books Could Kill," the podcast hosted by Michael Hobbes and Peter Shamshiri, fearlessly dives into the world of bestselling nonfiction, dissecting the pop narratives that have shaped our understanding of the world, often for the worse. They're not just reviewing books; they're interrogating the very foundations of the stories we tell ourselves.

The podcast, a sharp and often hilarious critique of popular nonfiction from the late 20th and early 21st centuries, takes aim at the "airport books" that have become America's primary source for oversimplified history and misrepresented statistics. Michael Hobbes, a journalist known for his in-depth reporting, and Peter Shamshiri, a legal mind with a progressive perspective, bring their unique skills to the table, creating a dynamic that is both informative and entertaining. Together, they tackle the narratives that have captured our imaginations and, in their view, sometimes warped our collective understanding.

Category	Details
Name	Peter Shamshiri
Age	36 (as of recent mentions)
Profession	Podcaster, Legal Analyst, Author
Podcast	Co-host of "If Books Could Kill" and associated with "Five Four" podcast.
Legal Standing	No longer in good standing with the New York State Bar.
Progressive Take	Offers a critical, progressive perspective on legal matters, especially concerning the Supreme Court.
Associated Podcast Tagline	Associated with the tagline describing the Supreme Court as something that "sucks," offering an irreverent tour of the law shaped by politics.
Blog/Newsletter	Writes for "String in a Maze" and has a newsletter.
Balls & Strikes	Author at Balls & Strikes ("The Law Boy").
Contact for Bookings	fivefourpod@gmail.com
Federalist Society	Addresses the role of the Federalist Society in shaping the judicial audience.
Humor Style	Known for his comedic timing, deadpan moments, and "chaos brain."
Partner	Michael Hobbes
Reference Link	N/A - (Insert Authentic Website Link Here if Available)

Beyond "If Books Could Kill," Peter Shamshiri is also known for his work on the "Five Four" podcast, which takes a "critical, progressive perspective" on the Supreme Court. The podcast's tagline, known for its bluntness, reflects an irreverent approach to understanding how politics shape the law. This project showcases Shamshiri's ability to dissect complex legal issues with clarity and a healthy dose of skepticism.

Shamshiri's insights extend beyond the podcasting world. He is also an author at Balls & Strikes, where he is known as "The Law Boy." His writing offers a progressive and occasionally profane take on the ideological battles at the heart of the court's most important landmark cases. This platform allows him to delve deeper into the legal nuances and offer his unique perspective to a wider audience. His blog, "String in a Maze," and his newsletter provide further avenues for him to share his thoughts and engage with readers directly.

On January 23, 2024, Shamshiri penned an article reflecting on Justice Samuel Alito's tirade at the Federalist Societys annual conference in November 2020, further illustrating his engagement with contemporary legal discourse. His analysis of Alito's remarks provides valuable insight into the ideological divides within the legal community and the implications for the future of the court.

The podcast "If Books Could Kill" has garnered significant attention, with Shamshiri noting that the surge of popularity has been "vindicating in a dark sort of way." This sentiment suggests a recognition of the impact the podcast is having on shaping public discourse around nonfiction and the narratives that influence our understanding of the world. The comedic timing and "chaos brain" that Shamshiri brings to the podcast have resonated with listeners, sparking conversations and critical engagement with the books they dissect.

The dynamic between Michael Hobbes and Peter Shamshiri is a key ingredient to the podcast's success. Hobbes, a seasoned journalist with a background in enterprise reporting for HuffPost and contributions to publications like Pacific Standard, The New Republic, and Slate, brings a wealth of experience in investigative journalism and narrative storytelling. Together, they create a balanced and engaging discussion that appeals to a wide range of listeners.

In one episode of the podcast, the hosts delve into the role of the Federalist Society in shaping the judicial audience. Shamshiri's legal expertise is particularly valuable in this discussion, as he dissects the organization's influence on conservative judges and the broader legal landscape. He offers a nuanced understanding of the Federalist Society's strategies and their impact on the composition of the Supreme Court.

While details about Peter Shamshiri's personal life, including information about his wife, are not widely publicized, it is clear that his work is driven by a deep commitment to progressive values and a desire to challenge conventional wisdom. His willingness to engage in difficult conversations and his ability to present complex legal issues in an accessible and engaging manner have made him a valuable voice in the ongoing debates about law, politics, and culture.

The podcast "If Books Could Kill" continues to release episodes, with Michael Hobbes and Peter Shamshiri providing their intelligent, unfiltered, and humorous takes on the "dumb books that captured our imagination." Their discussions are not just about making fun of these books; they're about understanding why these narratives resonated with so many people and the potential consequences of their widespread influence. The podcast serves as a reminder to critically examine the information we consume and to be wary of oversimplified narratives, especially those presented as objective truth.

The collaborative effort between Michael Hobbes and Peter Shamshiri has created a unique space for critical analysis and engaging conversation. Their podcast, "If Books Could Kill," is more than just a book review show; it's a cultural commentary that challenges us to think more deeply about the stories we tell ourselves and the world around us.

Peter Shamshiri, alongside Michael Hobbes, creates "If Books Could Kill", a platform where they dissect bestselling nonfiction books, pulling apart the threads of popular narratives. They hold to account the texts that have shaped public opinion, often highlighting the flaws, biases, and oversimplifications embedded within. This commitment to rigorous analysis makes the podcast a crucial voice in media literacy.

The podcast's format is simple: Hobbes and Shamshiri select a popular nonfiction book and systematically deconstruct its arguments, methods, and conclusions. They don't shy away from pointing out logical fallacies, misrepresented statistics, or historical inaccuracies. They bring a critical eye to the books that often go unquestioned, prompting listeners to consider the sources and assumptions that underpin their own beliefs.

Shamshiris perspective, grounded in his legal background, adds another layer of depth to the podcast. He is able to analyze the legal and political implications of the books they discuss, often revealing how these narratives reinforce existing power structures or contribute to harmful stereotypes. This focus on the real-world consequences of these books sets "If Books Could Kill" apart from other book review podcasts.

The choice of focusing on "airport books" is deliberate. These books, often found in airports and other travel hubs, are designed for mass consumption. They tend to be easily digestible, entertaining, and offer simple explanations for complex issues. However, Hobbes and Shamshiri argue that this accessibility comes at a cost. These books often sacrifice nuance and accuracy in favor of a compelling story, potentially shaping readers' understanding of the world in misleading ways.

The podcast isn't just about criticizing these books. Hobbes and Shamshiri also explore the reasons for their popularity. They analyze the cultural and social contexts that made these books resonate with readers, often pointing to the anxieties, desires, and biases that these narratives tap into. This approach allows them to understand the underlying forces that shape public opinion and the power of storytelling.

"If Books Could Kill" has resonated with a large audience, attracting listeners who are interested in critical thinking, media literacy, and challenging conventional wisdom. The podcast's success is a testament to the growing demand for thoughtful and nuanced analysis in a world saturated with information. Hobbes and Shamshiri have created a space where listeners can engage in critical discussions about the books that shape our understanding of the world.

Peter Shamshiri's involvement with "Five Four" further demonstrates his commitment to progressive legal analysis. The podcast's irreverent tagline, while provocative, reflects a deeper concern about the role of politics in shaping legal outcomes. Shamshiri and his co-hosts dissect Supreme Court decisions, revealing the ideological underpinnings and the potential consequences for individuals and society.

The "Five Four" podcast aims to demystify the Supreme Court and make legal analysis accessible to a wider audience. Shamshiri and his co-hosts explain complex legal concepts in plain language, avoiding jargon and legalese. They also provide historical context for Supreme Court decisions, helping listeners understand the evolution of legal thought and the political forces that have shaped the court's rulings.

Shamshiri's writing at Balls & Strikes provides another avenue for him to share his progressive legal analysis. His articles offer a critical perspective on the ideological battles within the court, often focusing on landmark cases and the impact of conservative legal theories. His writing is characterized by its clarity, wit, and willingness to challenge conventional wisdom.

His piece reflecting on Justice Alito's tirade at the Federalist Society highlights his engagement with contemporary legal debates. Shamshiri's analysis provides valuable insights into the divisions within the legal community and the challenges facing the Supreme Court. He is not afraid to challenge powerful figures and institutions, demonstrating his commitment to intellectual honesty and progressive values.

The mention of Shamshiri no longer being in good standing with the New York State Bar raises questions about the reasons behind this decision. However, it does not diminish his expertise or his ability to provide insightful legal analysis. His work on podcasts and in writing demonstrates his continued engagement with the legal field and his commitment to sharing his perspective with a wider audience.

The comments about Shamshiri's comedic timing and "chaos brain" suggest that he brings a unique and engaging personality to his work. His ability to inject humor into serious discussions makes his analysis more accessible and relatable to listeners and readers. This combination of intelligence, wit, and irreverence has made him a popular figure in the world of progressive legal commentary.

Peter Shamshiri, as a podcast host, legal analyst, and author, has emerged as a prominent voice in progressive legal commentary. His work on "If Books Could Kill" and "Five Four," along with his writing at Balls & Strikes and his blog, "String in a Maze," demonstrates his commitment to critical thinking, media literacy, and challenging conventional wisdom. His unique blend of intelligence, wit, and irreverence has resonated with a wide audience, making him a valuable contributor to the ongoing debates about law, politics, and culture.

The key to the enduring appeal of "If Books Could Kill" likely lies in its ability to tap into a growing skepticism towards simplistic narratives and the books that perpetuate them. In an era of information overload, the podcast offers a much-needed dose of critical analysis, providing listeners with the tools to evaluate the books they read and the stories they consume.

By dissecting the flaws and biases in popular nonfiction, Hobbes and Shamshiri empower listeners to become more discerning consumers of information. They challenge the authority of these books, encouraging listeners to question the assumptions and conclusions presented within. This emphasis on critical thinking is particularly important in a world where misinformation and propaganda can spread rapidly.

The podcast's focus on "airport books" is also significant because it highlights the power of mass media to shape public opinion. These books, often sold in high-traffic areas, reach a wide audience and can have a profound impact on readers' understanding of the world. By scrutinizing these books, "If Books Could Kill" sheds light on the ways in which narratives are constructed and disseminated, and the potential consequences of their widespread consumption.

Furthermore, the podcast's comedic approach makes its message more accessible and engaging. Hobbes and Shamshiri are not afraid to poke fun at the books they discuss, using humor to highlight their flaws and absurdities. This lighthearted tone makes the podcast more enjoyable to listen to, while also reinforcing the importance of critical thinking.

The success of "If Books Could Kill" is also a reflection of the growing interest in media literacy and the ability to critically evaluate information. In a world where we are constantly bombarded with messages from various sources, it is more important than ever to be able to discern fact from fiction and to identify bias and misinformation. The podcast provides listeners with the tools and insights they need to navigate this complex information landscape.

In addition to its focus on individual books, "If Books Could Kill" also examines the broader cultural and social forces that shape our understanding of the world. The podcast explores the ways in which narratives are used to reinforce existing power structures, perpetuate stereotypes, and promote particular ideologies. By examining these broader themes, the podcast helps listeners to understand the complex relationship between information, power, and society.

Peter Shamshiri's legal expertise adds a unique dimension to the podcast's analysis. He is able to identify the legal and political implications of the books they discuss, often revealing how these narratives contribute to or undermine existing laws and policies. This focus on the real-world consequences of these narratives makes the podcast even more relevant and impactful.

Overall, "If Books Could Kill" is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to become a more informed and critical consumer of information. The podcast's engaging format, insightful analysis, and emphasis on media literacy make it a must-listen for anyone who cares about understanding the world around them.

Beyond his work on "If Books Could Kill," Peter Shamshiri's contributions to "Five Four" and his writing at Balls & Strikes solidify his position as a prominent voice in progressive legal analysis. He consistently challenges conventional wisdom, offering a critical perspective on the Supreme Court and the legal landscape. His willingness to engage in difficult conversations and his commitment to intellectual honesty make him a valuable asset to the ongoing debates about law, politics, and culture.

Whether he's dissecting bestselling nonfiction or analyzing Supreme Court decisions, Peter Shamshiri brings a unique blend of intelligence, wit, and irreverence to his work. His ability to make complex legal issues accessible to a wider audience, combined with his commitment to progressive values, makes him a compelling and influential voice in the media landscape.

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