Bookmarked by Reese's Book Club: Episode Summary

Episode: Beck Dorey-Stein on Obsession, Soccer, and the Quick Kiss of Connection
Release Date: July 29, 2025
Host: Danielle Robay
Guest: Beck Dorey-Stein, author of Spectacular Things

1. Introduction to Beck Dorey-Stein and Spectacular Things

Danielle Robay opens the episode by introducing Beck Dorey-Stein as the author of this month’s Reese's Book Club pick, Spectacular Things. She highlights Beck's ability to intertwine philosophical questions with engaging narratives, inviting listeners into a deep exploration of ambition, sacrifice, and personal growth through literature.

Notable Quote:
Danielle Robay ([03:28]): "What would you give up for the person you love most?"

2. Beck's Background and Inspiration

Beck discusses her journey from working as a stenographer in the White House to becoming a novelist. She shares a personal anecdote about creating a homemade birthday card for President Obama, which led to a meaningful connection, showcasing her creativity and dedication.

Notable Quote:
Beck Dorey-Stein ([06:45]): "I found this really cool photo on eBay... it looked as homemade as it was."

3. Themes of Ambition and Sacrifice

The conversation delves into the central themes of Spectacular Things. Beck explains how ambition and sacrifice are portrayed through the lives of two sisters and their mother in the high-stakes world of women's soccer. She emphasizes that the story explores what individuals inherit, what they sacrifice, and the true cost of ambition.

Notable Quote:
Beck Dorey-Stein ([22:23]): "Having a family is extremely ambitious. It requires the same thing. It requires constant sacrifice."

4. Character Development and Symbolism

Beck elaborates on the characters in her novel, drawing parallels between her own experiences and those of her characters. She discusses the significance of Liz’s red ribbon and the hair tie, symbolizing generational patterns and the evolving meaning of familial symbols.

Notable Quote:
Beck Dorey-Stein ([27:42]): "What can be convoluted in one generation, if it gets passed down and it just comes from the heart, it can become something totally new."

5. Research and Influences

Beck shares insights into the extensive research she conducted for the book, including consultations with sports psychologists and interviews with former players like Laurie Lindsay. She discusses how these interactions enriched the authenticity of her narrative.

Notable Quote:
Beck Dorey-Stein ([10:52]): "It's really a great excuse to call up their sports psychologist and be like, what would a goalkeeper think in this situation?"

6. Personal Insights and Advice

Beck offers personal reflections on balancing career and relationships. She discusses the sacrifices she made, such as relocating during COVID-19 in pursuit of personal and professional growth, and emphasizes the importance of being open to possibilities.

Notable Quote:
Beck Dorey-Stein ([20:13]): "I just kind of stopped everything and put everything into it."

7. Symbolism in the Book

The discussion highlights the use of symbolism in Spectacular Things. Beck explains the red ribbon as a representation of maternal relationships and how symbols can evolve across generations, maintaining tradition while acquiring new meanings.

Notable Quote:
Beck Dorey-Stein ([27:42]): "Lenora's got a bit of a narcissism problem... what we inherit, what we sacrifice."

8. Generational Patterns

Beck touches on the concept of generational patterns, distinguishing between generational trauma and broader patterns. She portrays how these patterns influence the characters' lives and decisions, particularly in their pursuit of excellence in soccer.

Notable Quote:
Beck Dorey-Stein ([29:49]): "Patterns... it's cricket doing the beep test... let's not kill ourselves."

9. Connection and Relationships

The conversation explores the importance of relationships and connections in personal growth. Beck emphasizes that genuine giving in relationships means making sacrifices without expecting anything in return, a theme that resonates through her characters' interactions.

Notable Quote:
Beck Dorey-Stein ([26:10]): "There's rarely like a 50-50 split... those aren't really genuine."

10. Closing Thoughts and Advice

Beck concludes with heartfelt advice, encouraging readers to cherish connections and reach out to loved ones. She shares her hope that Spectacular Things will inspire readers to strengthen their relationships and reflect on what truly matters.

Notable Quote:
Beck Dorey-Stein ([46:11]): "I hope they think about someone they love... pick up the phone."

Additional Highlights:

• Symbolic Elements: The red ribbon and hair tie symbolize the continuity and evolution of familial love and tradition.

• Research Depth: Beck's dedication to authentic storytelling is evident through her in-depth research and engagement with real-life soccer professionals.

• Personal Sacrifices: Beck shares her personal sacrifices, including moving to Maine and balancing motherhood with her writing career.

• Generational Influence: The book delves into how generational patterns shape the characters' ambitions and relationships.

Conclusion

In this engaging episode of Bookmarked by Reese's Book Club, Danielle Robay and Beck Dorey-Stein offer a profound exploration of ambition, sacrifice, and the intricate dance of personal relationships within the competitive world of women's soccer. Beck's insights into character development, symbolism, and the balance between personal and professional life provide listeners with a deep understanding of the themes woven into Spectacular Things. This conversation not only highlights Beck's literary prowess but also invites readers to reflect on their own lives and the sacrifices they make for the things they love.

Notable Quotes Overview:

• [03:28] Danielle Robay: "What would you give up for the person you love most?"
• [06:45] Beck Dorey-Stein: "I found this really cool photo on eBay... it looked as homemade as it was."
• [22:23] Beck Dorey-Stein: "Having a family is extremely ambitious. It requires the same thing. It requires constant sacrifice."
• [27:42] Beck Dorey-Stein: "What can be convoluted in one generation, if it gets passed down and it just comes from the heart, it can become something totally new."
• [46:11] Beck Dorey-Stein: "I hope they think about someone they love... pick up the phone."