Host Kirti Mutatkar continues KBC (Kirti's Book Club) with Pranav Mutatkar to discuss John Williams' "Augustus" - a Pulitzer Prize-winning historical fiction novel about Rome's first emperor told through letters and documents. About the Book Augustus by John Williams follows the life of Octavius (later Emperor Augustus) through an epistolary structure of letters, documents, and correspondence. The novel humanizes the legendary first Roman Emperor, showing his rise to power, personal relationships, and the burden of leadership. Rather than traditional narrative, readers discover Augustus through the perspectives of friends, family, and contemporaries. Key Discussion Points Leadership and performance - How Augustus had to "play" the role of emperor while remaining human underneath Destiny vs. free will - The tension between personal choice and being "crushed in the gears of history" Nobility and legacy - Building for future generations rather than personal gain, exemplified by Roman public works Humanization of greatness - Moving beyond the "Great Man theory" to see historical figures as complex, flawed humans KBC Reading Radar Brain Fizz Factor Both - Fireworks (4/4) Bookshelf Worthy Both - Shelf Resident (3/4) Both hosts enthusiastically recommend "Augustus" for its masterful writing, authentic historical research, and accessibility to non-history readers. The book offers rich themes of leadership, destiny, and human nature that resonate with modern readers. Williams' ability to create distinct character voices through letters makes ancient Rome feel immediate and relatable. --- *Next Episode: "Tom Lake" by Ann Patchett - continuing Season 1 of KBC*