Fans of the hit Apple TV+ series Severance can now immerse themselves even more deeply in the show's narrative with the release of the self-help book, The You You Are, by Dr. Ricken Lazlo Hale, PhD. This unique marketing move allows viewers and readers alike to access the very text which inspires characters to push back against the oppressive corporate culture at Lumon Industries.
The eight-chapter book, available for free on Apple Books, is crafted from the creative minds behind Severance, including writer-creator Dan Erickson and executive producer-director Ben Stiller. It was released on January 31st and can be downloaded along with its audiobook version narrated by actor Michael Chernus, who plays Ricken Hale on the show.
The You You Are provides readers with insights and reflections through chapters reflecting on self-discovery and identity. The Apple Books description notes, "Dr. Ricken Lazlo Hale, PhD guides You on a bravejourney of self-learnedness. Fertile with mind-engorging insights, The You You Are is an invitation to merge with your true 'You,' and expel from your essence the dead-eyed conventionalismthat has defined your life since infancy." What is remarkable is how this fictional self-help book plays such a significant role within the plot of Severance.
Within the show, the book serves as the impetus for the innies—employees whose memories have been surgically altered to separate their work and personal lives—to undertake a rebellion against the oppressive systems at Lumon. They find inspiration within the pages of Ricken’s book, which helps them challenge their circumstances.
Viewers will recall scenes from Season 1 where Ricken attempts to deliver his book to Mark (played by Adam Scott), but the book finds its way back to Lumon, where it is discovered by other characters. This turn of events leads to key developments for the plot, showcasing how the characters evolve as they grapple with their unique situations.
The audiobook version offers another layer of engagement, allowing fans to hear Ricken’s teachings delivered by the character himself. The 39-page book embraces the same quirky humor and oddball insights found within the show, amusingly poking fun at conventional wisdom and what it means to be truly self-aware.
The release of The You You Are has garnered attention not just for its content but also for the timing, coinciding with the second season of Severance, where new conflicts and storylines continue to emerge. With Episode 3 titled “Who Is Alive?” highlighting the machinations at play involving Lumon and its ambitious corporate PR strategies, fans are left pondering the true significance of Ricken’s self-help philosophy.
Reports suggest this clever marketing strategy is working effectively for Apple, as it continues to build anticipation and curiosity among both new viewers and established fans about how the narrative will evolve as more episodes are released. Severance remains one of the most talked-about shows crossing various media channels, drawing praise for its intriguing storyline and rich character development.
Despite its success, the show's future hangs on the performance of its second season. Near the end of 2024, it was confirmed by Stiller himself, "The chance of Season 3 is all riding on how the audience responds to the current season." While Apple has yet to announce any plans for additional seasons, its popularity suggests it may not be long before fans receive more installments of this enigmatic thriller.
For now, viewers can head to Apple Books to download The You You Are, expand their experience with the series, and discover what message Ricken Hale has for them. This is more than just naughty corporate fun; it’s about self-exploration, identity, and the audacity to break free from what holds you back.
With Severance streaming new episodes every Friday, fans are encouraged to stay tuned and keep the conversations going as more mysteries unravel and questions emerge. Can Ricken's unconventional wisdom truly inspire change? Only time will tell as the story continues to engage and entertain.