BOOK: "Is it SAFE?!" Torture-Horror in the 70's from a Multiple Oscar Winning Writer?

In this episode of Coolest Alive, host Jesse Blaze Snider talks about Marathon Man (1974) by William Goldman, a gripping conspiracy thriller that follows grad student and runner Tom “Babe” Levy as he’s pulled into a deadly plot involving Nazi war criminals, stolen diamonds, and a sadistic ex-dentist. Haunted by his father’s suicide, Babe faces betrayal, paranoia, and torture in a relentless race for survival. A huge bestseller that inspired the iconic 1976 film, Goldman’s taut novel remains a benchmark of 1970s suspense. We break down its twists, tension, and why it’s still a heart-pounding classic.

The Coolest Alive Podcast with Jesse Blaze Snider.

Every Tuesday, “Coolest Alive” dives into a fantastic album worthy of your time. No stuffy reviews here, just records from across genres getting deserved praise as must-listen classics, packed with cool vibes and reasons to hit play. Tune in for the best in music weekly.

Wednesday’s “Coolest Alive” is all about comic books/graphic novels that shine bright. We’re not reviewing, we’re celebrating what makes this medium so awesome! Join us to discover a visual storytelling gem you’ll want to check out.

Thursday’s “Coolest Alive” brings the spotlight to a stellar film or TV show. Forget formal critiques, we’re here to talk about what makes live-action filmmaking so great, from epic moments to why it’s a must-watch. Catch the cinematic love every week.

Fridays are for the eclectic, think BOOKS, DOCUMENTARIES, STAGE SHOWS, VIDEO GAMES, STREET FIGHTS, or anything else not covered on Tuesday through Thursday's shows. Each week, we share something extraordinary (besides music, comics, and movies), diving into why it’s a standout in its field. Expect the unexpected every Friday as we explore the coolest picks...across ALL mediums!