Pocket-Worthy Reads

Stories to fuel your mind
The Hustle

The $500m Smiley Face Business

Nearly 50 years ago, one man ‘invented’ the modern smiley face. Then, another man halfway across the world made it into a multimillion-dollar cash cow.

Truly*Adventurous

The Last Train Robbery

The Old West goes out with a bang in its last train robbery, leading a series of investigators down unexpected paths to a shocking conclusion.

The Guardian

The Truth About Dark Empaths

They seem sensitive and caring – but really they just want to manipulate you. So how do you recognize the danger signs?

Narratively

The Original New Orleans Diva

With sequins on her arms and a cocktail stirrer hanging from her neck, the most vibrant and vivacious member of NOLA’s preeminent restaurant family made the city her personal playground.

Popular Collections

Curated guides to the best reads on the web

Today’s Pocket Hits

Monday, July 7
The New York Times

He’s Ringo. And Nobody Else Is.

As he turns 85, one of the last surviving Beatles is still musically curious, dispensing his signature wisdom, and preaching the gospel of peace and love.

Recommended Reads

Curated by Pocket
CBS News

How Lady Liberty Became a Beacon for Immigrants

The Statue of Liberty, France’s gift to the U.S., was originally viewed as a tribute to the end of slavery. But poet Emma Lazarus reimagined Lady Liberty as a “mother of exiles,” welcoming immigrants to the shores of America.

Life Hacks

Tips for better living
DW

Paris Reopens Seine River for Public Swimming

Parisians have begun bathing in the Seine for the first time in over 100 years after a ban was lifted. The French capital has created three swimming zones along the river as part of its Olympic legacy.

Inc. Magazine

Half of Remote Employees Nap During the Workday, a Survey Says 

Employers might want to keep an eye open for any visible facial creases, suspiciously mussed hairdos, or groggy comments during video meetings with remote staff. It turns out nearly half of people working from home admit to taking naps on company time.