In this episode we cover Chapters 39-44 of East of Eden. We are committed to being a SPOILER-FREE podcast. We will only be discussing what has happened through Chapter 44. From now through January 20, 2026, join us every Tuesday for a new episode where we break down the novel chapter by chapter in preparation for Netflix's East of Eden miniseries. Next week we’re breaking down Chapters 45-49.Content warning: due to the nature of East of Eden’s story and characters, throughout this read-along we’ll be touching on some mature and complex themes, including but not limited to violence, abuse, suicide, alcoholism, racism, war, death, and sex work. If those topics are difficult for you, please listen with care.Like, Subscribe, and follow us on Instagram and TikTok @pigheadedandwellread. You can also find us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.Feel free to DM us or email us at [email protected](0:00) Episode Introduction and 3 Sentence Summary(4:25) Chapter 39(25:38) Chapter 40(32:27) Chapter 41(47:26) Chapter 42(50:57) Chapter 43(1:06:55) Chapter 44(1:20:25) Nate’s Takes!(1:23:12) East of Ethan(1:25:46) Netflix Adaptation Notes(1:30:56) Steinbeck Stats(1:32:31) Nate’s Predictions and Wrap Up

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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