Countless books, blogs, and podcasts are devoted to the importance of close friendship, but it’s not all phone calls and brunch dates. Friendship can be complicated, and, just like any relationship, it takes work to maintain those close friendships. Why isn’t anyone else talking about how hard this is? That’s the question Call Your Girlfriend podcast co-hosts Aminatou Sow and Ann Friedman explore in their memoir-of-sorts. I enjoyed their combination of thoughtful research, cultural comments, and personal stories that highlight the importance of making and keeping close friends who help you grow, stick around for the hard stuff, and celebrate your victories. They’ll be the first to say it’s not easy—while the two share joyful moments in their friendship journey here, they share plenty of messy moments and hard conversations as well—but it’s possible, and it’s worth it. More info →