The Library Coven

A bi-weekly podcast in which two bookish besties, Jessie and Kelly, read (mostly) young adult fantasy through a critical lens

  • Home
  • Episodes
  • Support
  • F.A.Q.
  • Home
  • Episodes
  • Support
  • F.A.Q.
  • book, A Court of Wings and Ruin on a shiny blue-green floral scarf
    Episodes

    Episode 49: A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J. Maas

    March 9, 2021 /

    It’s here! Our final episode of Season 3, in which we discuss A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J. Maas, the 3rd book in the Court of Thorns and Roses series. It’s a longer episode…#SorryNotSorry because we have so many thoughts and feelings! We’ll be back to regularly scheduled programming (aka bi-weekly podcasts about a-mah-zing books) starting June 1st, 2021. Make sure to subscribe wherever you get the show so you don’t miss out on some exciting bonus content we’ll be releasing in the meantime (hint hint, author interviews!!) Please consider taking our supporter survey. It should require only 5-10 minutes and it will help us get to know our…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Novel CITY OF BRASS on multicolored fabric

    Episode 23: The City of Brass by S.A. Chakraborty

    July 4, 2019
    Picture of Children of Virtue and Vengeance on a white comforter

    Episode 34: Children of Virtue and Vengeance by Tomi Adeyemi

    August 11, 2020
    Cover art of RUIN AND RISING

    Episode 9: Ruin and Rising by Leigh Bardugo

    December 17, 2018
  • Book, Deathless Divide on a purple background with the Knight of Swords tarot card to the right
    Episodes

    Episode 48: Deathless Divide by Justina Ireland

    February 23, 2021 /

    Hello, Coven! How is your winter going? We’re excited to bring you a new episode discussing Deathless Divide by Justina Ireland and finishing up the Dread Nation series. If you need a recap of what in the first book, you can check out our episode about Dread Nation! Please consider taking our supporter survey! It should require only 5-10 minutes and it will help us get to know our audience and get your feedback about the content we create. http://bit.ly/LibraryCovenSurvey This episode features some animals trying to make themselves heard in the episode. Sorry not sorry. Now on to the notes! Racist history of gynecology from Wear Your Voice  Anti-Blackness in…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Paperback copy of The Marrow Thieves held in J's left hand. A natural landscape of greens and browns is in the background.

    Episode 30: The Marrow Thieves by Cherie Dimaline

    June 17, 2020
    Paperback version of Rena Barron's KINGDOM OF SOULS lies on bright green grass

    Episode 27: Kingdom of Souls by Rena Barron

    December 3, 2019
    Hand holding hardcover edition of City of Bones against a backdrop of Pacific Northwest forest

    Episode 6: City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

    November 5, 2018
  • Book Pet on a teal background with dog paws coming in from the right side of the frame
    Episodes

    Episode 47: Pet by Akwaeke Emezi

    February 9, 2021 /

    Please consider taking our supporter survey! It should require only 5-10 minutes and it will help us get to know our audience and get your feedback about the content we create. http://bit.ly/LibraryCovenSurvey Greetings, coven! In this episode we discuss Pet by Akwaeke Emezi, their debut young adult novel. It’s a pretty quick read that deals with some heavy issues in ways that are accessible to younger audiences (i.e., middle grade) as well as teen and adult readers. Pet was a finalist for the 2019 National Book Award for Young People’s Literature  – after reading it, we understand why!  Content warning for discussions child physical and sexual abuse.  On to some (brief) notes! Kelly highly…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Book Gods of Jade and Shadow on a black marble background

    Episode 33: Gods of Jade and Shadow by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

    July 29, 2020
    book Bruja Born on a white background with skulls

    Episode 38: Bruja Born by Zoraida Córdova

    October 6, 2020
    Hardcover copy of Mackenzi Lee's A Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue sits on a dark wood desk next to a white mug with a "k" on it. Bookshelves in the backgroud

    Episode 12: A Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue by Mackenzi Lee

    January 28, 2019
  • Paperback copies of The Fifth Season, The Stone Sky and The Obelisk Gate stacked on blue fabric
    Episodes

    Episode 46: The Fifth Season by N.K. Jemisin

    January 26, 2021 /

    Hold on to your hats, folks! This fortnight we’re reading The Fifth Season by N.K. Jemisin, the first book in The Broken Earth Trilogy. And no matter how many people talk about their love for this book, it was not our cup of tea! We spent a lot of time being confused, and maybe had more questions than answers in this episode. What are your thoughts on this book? Content Warning for discussions of murder, torture, child abuse, and cannibalism On to the notes, which are quite short this week! The Witcher season 1 – slight spoilers about the timeline in that show K brings up Avatar: The Last Airbender (as she is…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Hardcover of The Dragon Republic lays on top of decorative paper with anatomical heart drawings

    Episode 43: The Dragon Republic by R.F. Kuang

    December 15, 2020
    Picture of Children of Virtue and Vengeance on a white comforter

    Episode 34: Children of Virtue and Vengeance by Tomi Adeyemi

    August 11, 2020
    White hand holds A REAPER AT THE GATES with lush forest in the background

    Episode 10 (!): A Reaper at the Gates by Sabaa Tahir

    December 31, 2018
  • paperback copy of Queen of the Conquered on top of a purple and white decorative paper
    Episodes

    Episode 45: Queen of the Conquered by Kacen Callender

    January 12, 2021 /

    In this episode we’re discussing Queen of the Conquered Kacen Callender (they/them), the first book in the Islands of Blood and Storm series. The book takes place in a Caribbean-inspired fantasy world and follows our main character, Sigourney, as she makes a bid for power as the only Black person in contention to rule the islands that have been colonized by the white Fjern. When all those in line to the throne are gathered for the storm season and start to be killed off one by one, chaos ensues. As it does. Content warning for discussions of rape and white supremacist violence.  Callender also wrote Felix Ever After. It’s on our TBR!…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Sea dragon on the cover of Siege and Storm

    Episode 5: Siege and Storm by Leigh Bardugo

    October 23, 2018
    We Hunt the Flame on a white blanket

    Episode 32: We Hunt the Flame by Hafsah Faizal

    July 14, 2020
    cartoon characters in costumes and bright clothing (artwork from Ship It)

    Episode 3: Ship It by Britta Lundin

    September 25, 2018
  • a stack of books sits in front of a blue and black marble background. From top to bottom: Class Act by Jerry Craft, Blanca & Roja by Anna-Marie McLemore, Stamped from the Beginning by Ibram X Kendi, Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas, Legendborn by Tracey Deon, Children of Virtue and Vengeance by Tomi Adeyemi, Party of Two by Jasmine Guillory and Queen of Nothing by Holly Black
    Bonus Episodes

    2020 Year in Review

    December 31, 2020 /

    Let’s take a look back at all the wonderful things we loved in this shit show of a year– most of them book-related, although we chat about film/TV a fair amount too. We want to share our favs with y’all in the hopes of spreading a bit more joy around. Please reach out and let us know yours as well!  We know this time of year is filled with wrap ups, lists, etc. (hell, we’re complicit), which, for some, can be rough to wade through. Take care of yourselves and feel free to skip this one if that’s the case for you. We’ll be back in 2021 with more book…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    a glass bowl of dough on a marble counter next to an open recipe book

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (6) Japanese Week

    November 13, 2020
    hardcover of Joanne Chang's PASTRY LOVE lays on top of a wood plank background

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (9) The Semi-Final and Patisserie!

    December 4, 2020
    Novel CEMETARY BOYS by Aidan Thomas rests on a wood plank background. A white plate sits beside the book with a cinnamon roll that has black and orange striped icing

    BONUS! Ep 1 of Our New Series on Great British Bake Off

    October 9, 2020
  • Paperback copy of Blanca & Roja rests on background of purple and navy flowers
    Episodes

    Episode 44: Blanca & Roja by Anna-Marie McLemore

    December 29, 2020 /

    Hello, coven! And welcome to one of the last episodes of the shit show that has been 2020! This week we’re discussing Blanca & Roja by Anna-Marie McLemore. Let’s talk about some swans!   What is magical realism? We talked a bit about being Latinx and white. There have been lots of great discussions about this, and here are 2 videos that explain it better than K or I did What is White Latinx and White Passing Privilege? Can Latinos Benefit from White Privilege? K mentioned Arrested Development TV show J recommended the movie Practical Magic for people who want stories about sisters, magic, and curses As always, we’d love…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    cartoon characters in costumes and bright clothing (artwork from Ship It)

    Episode 3: Ship It by Britta Lundin

    September 25, 2018
    Map from Labyrinth Lost by Zoraida Cordova

    Episode 28: Labyrinth Lost by Zoraida Córdova

    December 23, 2019
    Novel CHILDREN OF BLOOD AND BONE on top of red journal next to "brave wizards" candle

    Episode 2: Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi

    September 10, 2018
  • Hardcover of The Dragon Republic lays on top of decorative paper with anatomical heart drawings
    Episodes

    Episode 43: The Dragon Republic by R.F. Kuang

    December 15, 2020 /

    Hello everyone, and most especially to Saidah, who emailed us in December 2019 asking about when we were going to record an episode about R.F. Kuang’s The Dragon Republic. Saidah, we’re only a year late, but that time is now! If y’all need to recap the first book in the series, you can check out Episode 15 of the podcast in which we discussThe Poppy War.  Full disclosure: this series is not YA and Kelly uses verbal air quotes an embarrassing number of times in the episode. You’ve been warned. Enjoy! Content Warning for discussions of genocide, sexual assault, drug use and other instances of extreme violence.  This isn’t the first time…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Two hardcover copies of the The WIcked King on top of a navy and green crocheted blanket

    Episode 16: The Wicked King by Holly Black

    March 26, 2019
    Highlighted section of text (Descendant of the Crane by Joan He) on a black kindle. A sunflower sits on top of the kindle

    Episode 17: Descendant of the Crane by Joan He

    April 8, 2019
    Paperback copy of Blanca & Roja rests on background of purple and navy flowers

    Episode 44: Blanca & Roja by Anna-Marie McLemore

    December 29, 2020
  • blue macarons on a black marble background
    Bonus Episodes

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (10) The Final!

    December 11, 2020 /

    And just like that series 11 (or collection 8 for us folks in the US) is over. It was so much fun to have this during this fairly terrible time, and we hope you’ve all enjoyed listening to our ramblings about the show. Now time for a re-watch! As always, we’d love to be in discussion with you, magical folx. Post or tweet about the show using #criticallyreading. Let us know what you think of the episode, anything we missed, or anything else you want us to know by dropping a line in the comments or reaching out to us on twitter or Instagram (@thelibrarycoven), or via email (thelibraycoven@gmail.com). You can also check out…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    A golden brown chocolate & walnut babka loaf rests on top of a wire cooling rack and sage green tea towel

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (8) Dessert Week

    November 27, 2020
    hardcover of Joanne Chang's PASTRY LOVE lays on top of a wood plank background

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (9) The Semi-Final and Patisserie!

    December 4, 2020
    close-up view of a croissant for pasty week great British bake off.

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (5) Pastry Week

    November 6, 2020
  • hardcover of Joanne Chang's PASTRY LOVE lays on top of a wood plank background
    Bonus Episodes

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (9) The Semi-Final and Patisserie!

    December 4, 2020 /

    Tune in for our ramblings on the chaos that was patisserie week! Alas, this season of GBBO is almost over *crying emoji*  Almost no notes this time! But here’s that tweet Kelly mentions. 

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    blue macarons on a black marble background

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (10) The Final!

    December 11, 2020
    cartoon renderings of Jessie and Kelly wear black witch hats. A book and text "JK, it's magic" float above them

    BONUS! 2 years of the podcast

    August 31, 2020
    A light-skinned Black person holds a slice of sourdough in her left hand. A cutting board, blue and white gingham cloth and serrated knife lie below.

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (3) Bread Week

    October 26, 2020
  • Wayward Witch with fairy lights around it
    Episodes

    Episode 42: Wayward Witch by Zoraida Córdova

    December 1, 2020 /

    Hello, coven! This week we’re discussing Wayward Witch, the third and final (?) book in the Brooklyn Brujas series by Zoraida Córdova. You can check out our episodes about Labyrinth Lost and Bruja Born if you need a refresher about what happened in the earlier books! Which was your favorite of the series? What would be your sinmago power be? Full episode transcript below or access the transcript PDF And now, onward to the notes (of which there are very few this week)! The audiobook was narrated by Almarie Guerra “When people show you who they are” quote is from Dr. Maya Angelou The Body Keeps the Score As always, we’d love to be…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Picture of Children of Virtue and Vengeance on a white comforter

    Episode 34: Children of Virtue and Vengeance by Tomi Adeyemi

    August 11, 2020
    Light-skinned black hand holds HOUSE OF SALT AND SORROWS

    Episode 25 House of Salt and Sorrows by Erin A. Craig (slash an entire year of the show!!)

    August 7, 2019
    Paperback copy of The Marrow Thieves held in J's left hand. A natural landscape of greens and browns is in the background.

    Episode 30: The Marrow Thieves by Cherie Dimaline

    June 17, 2020
  • A golden brown chocolate & walnut babka loaf rests on top of a wire cooling rack and sage green tea towel
    Bonus Episodes

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (8) Dessert Week

    November 27, 2020 /

    Hello, Coven! We’re at week eight of Great British Bake Off, and where did the time go!? This week, it’s all things desserts, and a very unusual technical. Who do you think is making it to the final? Just a few notes: compote is “a dessert originating from medieval Europe, made of whole or pieces of fruit in sugar syrup. Whole fruits are cooked in water with sugar and spices. The syrup may be seasoned with vanilla, lemon or orange peel, cinnamon sticks or powder, cloves, other spices, ground almonds, grated coconut, candied fruit or raisins. The compote is served either warm or cold.” –  Wikipedia entry for compote coulis is “is a form of thin sauce made from puréed and strained vegetables or fruits”  -Wikipedia entry…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    blue macarons on a black marble background

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (10) The Final!

    December 11, 2020
    Novel CEMETARY BOYS by Aidan Thomas rests on a wood plank background. A white plate sits beside the book with a cinnamon roll that has black and orange striped icing

    BONUS! Ep 1 of Our New Series on Great British Bake Off

    October 9, 2020
    a stack of books sits in front of a blue and black marble background. From top to bottom: Class Act by Jerry Craft, Blanca & Roja by Anna-Marie McLemore, Stamped from the Beginning by Ibram X Kendi, Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas, Legendborn by Tracey Deon, Children of Virtue and Vengeance by Tomi Adeyemi, Party of Two by Jasmine Guillory and Queen of Nothing by Holly Black

    2020 Year in Review

    December 31, 2020
  • Rice crispy treats on a white plate
    Bonus Episodes

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (7) 80s Week

    November 20, 2020 /

    ahoy, bakers and reader/listeners! This season of GBBO is nearly over (NOOOOOO), but we’re still excited to share this bonus ep with y’all. We talk quiche, donuts, and ice cream cake. Oh, and Jessie gives us a lesson on air fryers. Enjoy! [gif of Mel and Nadia holding up index and pinky fingers – metal!]

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    a glass bowl of dough on a marble counter next to an open recipe book

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (6) Japanese Week

    November 13, 2020
    Three snickerdoodle cookies stacked on a white plate

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (2) – Biscuit Week

    October 15, 2020
    Novel CEMETARY BOYS by Aidan Thomas rests on a wood plank background. A white plate sits beside the book with a cinnamon roll that has black and orange striped icing

    BONUS! Ep 1 of Our New Series on Great British Bake Off

    October 9, 2020
  • Hardcover version of Nocturna sit on a bright red background
    Episodes

    Episode 41: Nocturna by Maya Motayne

    November 17, 2020 /

    hiya, coven! This week we’re coming at you with a discussion of Nocturna by Maya Motayne. We both loved this book and didn’t realize how complex the world building and magical system were until we came together in conversation (aka we’re both a little befuddled, and that’s fine!). Motayne’s debut novel is full of relatable characters and exquisite writing. Oh, and there’s magical texting and pining. Have we convinced you to put this on your TBR yet?! Content Warning: this book deals with some heavy topics like emotional and physical abuse, which we discuss at length (although in general terms). Please take this into account when deciding whether to dive into this episode. Call…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Kelly smiles with a mug of butter beer in her hand

    Episode 20: Interview with Kelly

    May 20, 2019
    A Song of Wraiths and Ruin on a blue, white and gold marbled background

    Episode 39: A Song of Wraiths and Ruin by Roseanne A. Brown

    October 20, 2020
    Hardcover copy of A Court of Mist and Fury with bus seats in the background

    Episode 21: A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas

    June 5, 2019
  • a glass bowl of dough on a marble counter next to an open recipe book
    Bonus Episodes

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (6) Japanese Week

    November 13, 2020 /

    We are more than half way through this season of GBBO, and I am so sad! Here’s to the first ever Japanese week! What were your thoughts?

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Chocolate cake with Halloween sprinkles around the base

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (4) Chocolate Week

    October 30, 2020
    Three snickerdoodle cookies stacked on a white plate

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (2) – Biscuit Week

    October 15, 2020
    Rice crispy treats on a white plate

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (7) 80s Week

    November 20, 2020
  • close-up view of a croissant for pasty week great British bake off.
    Bonus Episodes

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (5) Pastry Week

    November 6, 2020 /

    Hi, everyone! We can’t believe that it’s already halfway through this season of GBBO. Tune-in for our discussion of the much-anticipated pastry week. Visit The Traveller Movement website , check out this op-ed in the Guardian  about antiziganism/racism, or this handy “GRT Representation: Media Response Toolkit” for more on GRT (Gypsy, Roma, Traveler) ethnic groups. There is so much to learn. Do the research, ppl! As always, we’d love to be in discussion with you, magical folx. Post or tweet about the show using #criticallyreading. Let us know what you think of the episode, anything we missed, or anything else you want us to know by dropping a line in the comments or reaching…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Novel CEMETARY BOYS by Aidan Thomas rests on a wood plank background. A white plate sits beside the book with a cinnamon roll that has black and orange striped icing

    BONUS! Ep 1 of Our New Series on Great British Bake Off

    October 9, 2020
    Three snickerdoodle cookies stacked on a white plate

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (2) – Biscuit Week

    October 15, 2020
    blue macarons on a black marble background

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (10) The Final!

    December 11, 2020
  • Hardcover of Wicked Fox on a maroon background
    Episodes

    Episode 40: Wicked Fox by Kat Cho

    November 3, 2020 /

    Hello, Coven! This week we’re coming at you with a discussion of Wicked Fox by Kat Cho. We really enjoyed reading some urban fantasy that took place in South Korea. What are your thoughts about this book? We’re a bit light on notes, because we actually stuck to the book more than usual! Call to action: It’s November 3, and if you haven’t already, be sure to go vote! K watched Itaewon Class to get ready to talk about this book and get more familiar with K-dramas J recommends Explained episode on K-pop Healthcare in South Korea The sequel, Viscous Spirits, is out now, and we can’t wait to read it! As always, we’d…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    cartoon characters in costumes and bright clothing (artwork from Ship It)

    Episode 3: Ship It by Britta Lundin

    September 25, 2018
    Cover of CROOKED KINGDOM on a starry background

    Episode 29: Crooked Kingdom by Leigh Bardugo

    June 2, 2020
    Light-skinned brown hand holds novel A DREAM SO DARK. Shelves of library books in the background.

    Episode 31: A Dream So Dark by L.L. McKinney

    June 30, 2020
  • Chocolate cake with Halloween sprinkles around the base
    Bonus Episodes

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (4) Chocolate Week

    October 30, 2020 /

    We’re coming at you this week to talk about all things episode 4 of series 11 or Chocolate Week! This week was a wild ride, so prepare yourselves! Here is the  article J mentioned about GBBO [a gif of the Prue-gasm] As always, we’d love to be in discussion with you, magical folx. Post or tweet about the show using #criticallyreading. Let us know what you think of the episode, anything we missed, or anything else you want us to know by dropping a line in the comments or reaching out to us on twitter or Instagram (@thelibrarycoven), or via email (thelibraycoven@gmail.com). You can also check out the show notes on our website,…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    close-up view of a croissant for pasty week great British bake off.

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (5) Pastry Week

    November 6, 2020
    blue macarons on a black marble background

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (10) The Final!

    December 11, 2020
    cartoon renderings of Jessie and Kelly wear black witch hats. A book and text "JK, it's magic" float above them

    BONUS! 2 years of the podcast

    August 31, 2020
  • A light-skinned Black person holds a slice of sourdough in her left hand. A cutting board, blue and white gingham cloth and serrated knife lie below.
    Bonus Episodes

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (3) Bread Week

    October 26, 2020 /

    It’s finally time for Bread Week! Here is our third bonus episode in the GBBO series. [actual footage of Jessie and Kelly preparing for recording this episode] As always, we’d love to be in discussion with you, magical folx. Post or tweet about the show using #criticallyreading. Let us know what you think of the episode, anything we missed, or anything else you want us to know by dropping a line in the comments or reaching out to us on twitter or Instagram (@thelibrarycoven), or via email (thelibraycoven@gmail.com). You can also check out the show notes on our website, thelibrarycoven.com. We really appreciate ratings and reviews on iTunes, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or any…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    hardcover of Joanne Chang's PASTRY LOVE lays on top of a wood plank background

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (9) The Semi-Final and Patisserie!

    December 4, 2020
    close-up view of a croissant for pasty week great British bake off.

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (5) Pastry Week

    November 6, 2020
    Three snickerdoodle cookies stacked on a white plate

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (2) – Biscuit Week

    October 15, 2020
  • A Song of Wraiths and Ruin on a blue, white and gold marbled background
    Episodes

    Episode 39: A Song of Wraiths and Ruin by Roseanne A. Brown

    October 20, 2020 /

    hey, magical beings! This fortnight we’re bringing you a conversation about A Song of Wraiths and Ruin by Roseanne A. Brown, the first in a planned duology. The second/final installment, A Psalm of Storms and Silence is due out in early 2021. Content Warning for discussions of parent death, panic attacks, and child abuse. ChildHelp  Call 1-800-422-4453 for assistance Call to Action: take care of yourselves! The interactive “you feel like shit self care guide flowchart” is a good resource. here is the source K used when researching the meaning of different day names. Various fact-based news sources have documented widespread evidence that the United States’s carceral immigration system (including deportation flights) is spreading COVID-19.…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Paperback copy of Blanca & Roja rests on background of purple and navy flowers

    Episode 44: Blanca & Roja by Anna-Marie McLemore

    December 29, 2020
    Novel A BLADE SO BLACK surrounded by a circle of playing cards

    Episode 13: A Blade So Black by L.L. McKinney

    February 11, 2019
    Picture of Children of Virtue and Vengeance on a white comforter

    Episode 34: Children of Virtue and Vengeance by Tomi Adeyemi

    August 11, 2020
  • Three snickerdoodle cookies stacked on a white plate
    Bonus Episodes

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (2) – Biscuit Week

    October 15, 2020 /

    Time for biscuits and episode 2 of our very special bonus episodes about GBBO! What did you think of biscuit week? How are you feeling about the season? As always, we’d love to be in discussion with you, magical folx. Post or tweet about the show using #criticallyreading. Let us know what you think of the episode, anything we missed, or anything else you want us to know by dropping a line in the comments or reaching out to us on twitter or Instagram (@thelibrarycoven), or via email (thelibraycoven@gmail.com). You can also check out the show notes on our website, thelibrarycoven.com. We really appreciate ratings and reviews on iTunes, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or any other…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    A golden brown chocolate & walnut babka loaf rests on top of a wire cooling rack and sage green tea towel

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (8) Dessert Week

    November 27, 2020
    a stack of books sits in front of a blue and black marble background. From top to bottom: Class Act by Jerry Craft, Blanca & Roja by Anna-Marie McLemore, Stamped from the Beginning by Ibram X Kendi, Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas, Legendborn by Tracey Deon, Children of Virtue and Vengeance by Tomi Adeyemi, Party of Two by Jasmine Guillory and Queen of Nothing by Holly Black

    2020 Year in Review

    December 31, 2020
    hardcover of Joanne Chang's PASTRY LOVE lays on top of a wood plank background

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (9) The Semi-Final and Patisserie!

    December 4, 2020
  • Novel CEMETARY BOYS by Aidan Thomas rests on a wood plank background. A white plate sits beside the book with a cinnamon roll that has black and orange striped icing
    Bonus Episodes

    BONUS! Ep 1 of Our New Series on Great British Bake Off

    October 9, 2020 /

    Greetings, dear coven. We are excited to introduce our new series of bonus episodes following each new episode of Great British Bake Off! The program is also known as the Great British Baking Show on Netflix/in the USA ( because copyright law). J & K are both amateur bakers who enjoy making everything from bread and patisserie to cookies and cakes. Tune in for baking tips and to hear us tailor that compassionate critique you know and love toward this sweet* reality show. We hope it brings you joy! It certainly is a treat* to record these. *PUNS INTENDED! #obvi (can you tell K wrote this? lol) On your marks…get…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    blue macarons on a black marble background

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (10) The Final!

    December 11, 2020
    Three snickerdoodle cookies stacked on a white plate

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (2) – Biscuit Week

    October 15, 2020
    close-up view of a croissant for pasty week great British bake off.

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (5) Pastry Week

    November 6, 2020
  • book Bruja Born on a white background with skulls
    Episodes

    Episode 38: Bruja Born by Zoraida Córdova

    October 6, 2020 /

    Hello, coven! This is one of the last few episodes where we refer to ourselves as JK, It’s Magic. We hope you like our new name, and that you feel like you’re part of the coven. This week we’re talking about Bruja Born by Zoraida Córdova, were we get to know a lot more about Lula! If you need a recap about what happened in the last book, check out our Labyrinth Lost episode. Call to Action: This week, we’re asking that people learn more about ways they can lend a hand to those experiencing homelessness. One place you can start is The National Alliance to End Homelessness. Full Transcript Below (or…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Hardcover of The Dragon Republic lays on top of decorative paper with anatomical heart drawings

    Episode 43: The Dragon Republic by R.F. Kuang

    December 15, 2020
    Jessie holding a mug of butterbeer

    Episode 19: Interview with Jessie

    May 5, 2019
    Map from Labyrinth Lost by Zoraida Cordova

    Episode 28: Labyrinth Lost by Zoraida Córdova

    December 23, 2019
  • Bonus Episodes

    BONUS! Umbrella Academy

    September 29, 2020 /

    We’re coming at you with a super special bonus episode discussing all things about the first two seasons of Umbrella Academy! If you enjoy this episode, let us know, and let us know about any other bonus episode things you’d like to see in the future!! As always, we’d love to be in discussion with you, magical folx. Post or tweet about the show using #criticallyreading. Let us know what you think of the episode, anything we missed, or anything else you want us to know by dropping a line in the comments or reaching out to us on twitter or Instagram (@thelibrarycoven), or via email (thelibraycoven@gmail.com). You can also check out the…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    hardcover of Joanne Chang's PASTRY LOVE lays on top of a wood plank background

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (9) The Semi-Final and Patisserie!

    December 4, 2020
    Three snickerdoodle cookies stacked on a white plate

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (2) – Biscuit Week

    October 15, 2020
    close-up view of a croissant for pasty week great British bake off.

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (5) Pastry Week

    November 6, 2020
  • A paperback copy of A CURSE SO DARK AND LONELY by Brigid Kemmerer sits on top of a brown wood desk. A small succulent in a tiny navy teacup/saucer with gold trim sits to the left. To the right, a half-finished sock on double-pointed knitting needles rests by a ball of yarn (variegated blues and purples)
    Episodes

    Episode 37: A Curse so Dark and Lonely by Brigid Kemmerer

    September 22, 2020 /

    Greetings to all you magical beings out there! This fortnight, we’re discussing A Curse so Dark and Lonely by Brigid Kemmerer. We immensely enjoyed Kemmerer’s spin on the whole Beauty and the Beast tradition, and we found Harper to be one of the most relatable and badass protagonists! There’s so much about this novel that we found relevant to our pandemic times– especially re: disability, medical debt, . Also, J & K happen to be on different ships this time! Hope you enjoy and learn things and teach us things! Content warning: terminal illness and parental death, rape and sexual assault (mins 20-22). Call to action: This week we’re encouraging y’all to “crip”…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    White hand holds A REAPER AT THE GATES with lush forest in the background

    Episode 10 (!): A Reaper at the Gates by Sabaa Tahir

    December 31, 2018
    book Bruja Born on a white background with skulls

    Episode 38: Bruja Born by Zoraida Córdova

    October 6, 2020
    A Song of Wraiths and Ruin on a blue, white and gold marbled background

    Episode 39: A Song of Wraiths and Ruin by Roseanne A. Brown

    October 20, 2020
  • Crier's War audiobook pulled up on an iphone screen with sunflowers draped across the phone, and headphones surrounding the phone and flowers
    Episodes

    Episode 36: Crier’s War by Nina Varela

    September 8, 2020 /

    Hello, magical folx! This fortnight we’re discussing Crier’s War by Nina Varela! This book is fantasy adjacent, and leans a bit more toward science fiction, but we have lots of world building and robot things to talk about! Call to action: This week we’re educating ourselves on how the various technologies we use impact BIPOC and disabled people. Here are two books that can help with our collective education: Race After Technology: Abolitionist Tools for the New Jim Code by Ruha Benjamin Algorithms of Oppression: How Search Engines Reinforce Racism by Safiya Umoja Noble This is just the start of our education. Please let us know any other sources you found helpful!…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Highlighted section of text (Descendant of the Crane by Joan He) on a black kindle. A sunflower sits on top of the kindle

    Episode 17: Descendant of the Crane by Joan He

    April 8, 2019
    Paperback copy of The Marrow Thieves held in J's left hand. A natural landscape of greens and browns is in the background.

    Episode 30: The Marrow Thieves by Cherie Dimaline

    June 17, 2020
    Hardcover version of Nocturna sit on a bright red background

    Episode 41: Nocturna by Maya Motayne

    November 17, 2020
  • cartoon renderings of Jessie and Kelly wear black witch hats. A book and text "JK, it's magic" float above them
    Bonus Episodes

    BONUS! 2 years of the podcast

    August 31, 2020 /

    Hello, magical friends! We’ve got a bonus episode for you! We recently celebrated 2 years of the podcast! We are so excited to have been in communication with you for the last two years! The time has really flown by. We just wanted to take this time to thank you all who have been here since the beginning, and thank you to those who have just discovered us, to the people who chat with us on Instagram, and to everyone who tells someone about the podcast. We are excited to to bring you new conversations about books each fortnight, and we’ll keep doing it for as long as is sustainable…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    A golden brown chocolate & walnut babka loaf rests on top of a wire cooling rack and sage green tea towel

    BONUS! Great British Bake Off (8) Dessert Week

    November 27, 2020
    Novel CEMETARY BOYS by Aidan Thomas rests on a wood plank background. A white plate sits beside the book with a cinnamon roll that has black and orange striped icing

    BONUS! Ep 1 of Our New Series on Great British Bake Off

    October 9, 2020
    a stack of books sits in front of a blue and black marble background. From top to bottom: Class Act by Jerry Craft, Blanca & Roja by Anna-Marie McLemore, Stamped from the Beginning by Ibram X Kendi, Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas, Legendborn by Tracey Deon, Children of Virtue and Vengeance by Tomi Adeyemi, Party of Two by Jasmine Guillory and Queen of Nothing by Holly Black

    2020 Year in Review

    December 31, 2020
  • hardcover of the Queen of Nothing on a black marble background
    Episodes

    Episode 35: Queen of Nothing by Holly Black

    August 25, 2020 /

    hello, everyone! We’re excited to bring you this episode about The Queen of Nothing by Holly Black, the final installment of the Folk of the Air series (after The Cruel Prince and The Wicked King– which we discuss in episode 8 and episode 16, respectively). In the novel, we finally get to find out what happens to Jude and Cardan, and we see everything that unfolds after Jude was banished to the mortal world. In the episode, J & K somehow both forget that Cardan turns into a giant snake. hope you enjoy (and add to) the conversation! *Call to action* J and K have feelings about our podcast name and the common association with she-who-shall-not-be-named…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas in front of the snowy CO front range

    Episode 14: A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas

    February 25, 2019
    Kelly smiles with a mug of butter beer in her hand

    Episode 20: Interview with Kelly

    May 20, 2019
    cartoon characters in costumes and bright clothing (artwork from Ship It)

    Episode 3: Ship It by Britta Lundin

    September 25, 2018
  • Picture of Children of Virtue and Vengeance on a white comforter
    Episodes

    Episode 34: Children of Virtue and Vengeance by Tomi Adeyemi

    August 11, 2020 /

    Hello, magical friends! This fortnight we’re coming at you with a discussion of Children of Virtue and Vengeance by Tomi Adeyemi, the second book in the Legacy of Orïsha series. If you need a recap of the story or what we talked about in the first book, check out episode 2 (so long ago!!!) about Children of Blood and Bone. First up, let me say there is a bit of a sound issue on my part (J), that I apologize for. I accidentally recorded from my webcam instead of my microphone, but hopefully, I wont let that happen again in the future! Call to action: this week we asked that you take…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    A Song of Wraiths and Ruin on a blue, white and gold marbled background

    Episode 39: A Song of Wraiths and Ruin by Roseanne A. Brown

    October 20, 2020
    Sea dragon on the cover of Siege and Storm

    Episode 5: Siege and Storm by Leigh Bardugo

    October 23, 2018
    Book The Infinite Noise by Lauren Shippen in a pile of brown and reddish leaves and green grass

    Episode 26: The Infinite Noise by Lauren Shippen

    November 5, 2019
  • Book Gods of Jade and Shadow on a black marble background
    Episodes

    Episode 33: Gods of Jade and Shadow by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

    July 29, 2020 /

    Hey, magical folx! In this episode we discuss Gods of Jade and Shadow by Silvia Moreno-Garcia, which is *NOT* YA. We gotta say this at the top because its some sexist bs that women/femme adult fantasy writers get miscategorized as YA (read about how sexism impacts genre categorization). *Call to action* This fortnight, we’re urging our magical community to learn more about abolishing borders, abolishing ICE and migrant justice as well as to support organizations doing this work. Watch/listen to the final plenary from this year’s Allied Media Conference, “From Dreams to Practice: Abolition in Our Lifetimes”. The panel features a TON of rad ppl doing abolitionist work, including Miski Noor, Tawana “Honeycomb” Petty,…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Book, Deathless Divide on a purple background with the Knight of Swords tarot card to the right

    Episode 48: Deathless Divide by Justina Ireland

    February 23, 2021
    Hardcover of Wicked Fox on a maroon background

    Episode 40: Wicked Fox by Kat Cho

    November 3, 2020
    Two hardcover copies of the The WIcked King on top of a navy and green crocheted blanket

    Episode 16: The Wicked King by Holly Black

    March 26, 2019
  • We Hunt the Flame on a white blanket
    Episodes

    Episode 32: We Hunt the Flame by Hafsah Faizal

    July 14, 2020 /

    Hello, magical ppl! In this episode we dive into We Hunt the Flame by Hafsah Faizal, which J & K both enjoyed immensely. Join us for a conversation about how much we <3 enemies-to-lovers ships, badass protags like Zafira and Kifah, Faizal’s impressive world-building, and much more. Content Warning for discussions of child abuse. ChildHelp  – Call 1-800-422-4453 for assistance And now, links! The sequel, We Free the Stars, is scheduled for release on January 19, 2021. If you have some time, professor Edward Said teaches about Orientalism in this interview (appx. 40 minutes). If you are short on time, this video is a good primer about Orientalism and Said’s work on the…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Paperback copy of The Marrow Thieves held in J's left hand. A natural landscape of greens and browns is in the background.

    Episode 30: The Marrow Thieves by Cherie Dimaline

    June 17, 2020
    A paperback copy of A CURSE SO DARK AND LONELY by Brigid Kemmerer sits on top of a brown wood desk. A small succulent in a tiny navy teacup/saucer with gold trim sits to the left. To the right, a half-finished sock on double-pointed knitting needles rests by a ball of yarn (variegated blues and purples)

    Episode 37: A Curse so Dark and Lonely by Brigid Kemmerer

    September 22, 2020
    book, A Court of Wings and Ruin on a shiny blue-green floral scarf

    Episode 49: A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J. Maas

    March 9, 2021
  • Light-skinned brown hand holds novel A DREAM SO DARK. Shelves of library books in the background.
    Episodes

    Episode 31: A Dream So Dark by L.L. McKinney

    June 30, 2020 /

    Hello, magical folx! This week we’re discussing A Dream so Dark by L.L. McKinney, the second book in the Nightmare-verse series! In this episode we’re making predictions about the future books in the series, talking about “urban” fantasy, and coming at you with some major Star Wars: Rise of the Skywalker spoilers (you’ve been warned!). For a refresher for what happened in the last book, check out our episode on A Blade So Black. Here are all the things mentioned in this week’s episode! Let’s start with a question! What are you wearing when you feel your most powerful? We mentioned The Neverending Story Dr. Martens – the badass shoe of choice! Ship It…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Sea dragon on the cover of Siege and Storm

    Episode 5: Siege and Storm by Leigh Bardugo

    October 23, 2018
    Book The Infinite Noise by Lauren Shippen in a pile of brown and reddish leaves and green grass

    Episode 26: The Infinite Noise by Lauren Shippen

    November 5, 2019
    paperback copy of Queen of the Conquered on top of a purple and white decorative paper

    Episode 45: Queen of the Conquered by Kacen Callender

    January 12, 2021
  • Paperback copy of The Marrow Thieves held in J's left hand. A natural landscape of greens and browns is in the background.
    Episodes

    Episode 30: The Marrow Thieves by Cherie Dimaline

    June 17, 2020 /

    Hey, magical folx! This fortnight we discuss The Marrow Thieves by Cherie Dimaline, a prolific author who is a member of the Georgian Bay Metis Community. Hope you enjoy and learn something(s). BLACK LIVES MATTER. Content warning for discussions of sexual violence and addiction. RAINN – Anti-sex violence assistance. Call 800-856-4619 or visit their website for assistance.  Calls to Action Follow, support, and learn from Indigenous peoples now and always! In the words of Eve Tuck and K. Wayne Yang, “Decolonization is not a metaphor,” but rather requires return of stolen lands. If you have the resources to make financial contributions, here are some places to contribute: Indigenous Environmental Network‘s Mutual Aid fund…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Light-skinned brown hand holds novel A DREAM SO DARK. Shelves of library books in the background.

    Episode 31: A Dream So Dark by L.L. McKinney

    June 30, 2020
    Jessie holding a mug of butterbeer

    Episode 19: Interview with Jessie

    May 5, 2019
    Book Gods of Jade and Shadow on a black marble background

    Episode 33: Gods of Jade and Shadow by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

    July 29, 2020
  • Cover of CROOKED KINGDOM on a starry background
    Episodes

    Episode 29: Crooked Kingdom by Leigh Bardugo

    June 2, 2020 /

    Hello, magical folx! This week we’re discussing Crooked Kingdom by Leigh Bardugo, the second book in the Six of Crows series. Check out our Six of Crows episode for a refresher on what happened in the last book! Side Note & Content Warning: We know we’ve been gone for a bit, and we appreciate you patience as we get back in the swing of things. We recorded this episode in November, and a lot has changed in the world since then. This could be a difficult episode to listen to if the current pandemic is taking a toll on your mental health. Obviously, we had no idea where the world would be…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    book, A Court of Wings and Ruin on a shiny blue-green floral scarf

    Episode 49: A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J. Maas

    March 9, 2021
    A paperback copy of A CURSE SO DARK AND LONELY by Brigid Kemmerer sits on top of a brown wood desk. A small succulent in a tiny navy teacup/saucer with gold trim sits to the left. To the right, a half-finished sock on double-pointed knitting needles rests by a ball of yarn (variegated blues and purples)

    Episode 37: A Curse so Dark and Lonely by Brigid Kemmerer

    September 22, 2020
    Light-skinned brown hand holds novel A DREAM SO DARK. Shelves of library books in the background.

    Episode 31: A Dream So Dark by L.L. McKinney

    June 30, 2020
  • J & K in matching t-shirts in front of Hogwarts Castle
    Episodes

    2019: Year in Review

    December 31, 2019 /

    Happy New Year! With 2020 upon us, we wanted to take a look back at 2019. In this very special episode, we’re looking back at some of our favorite books, TV shows, movies, and other things from 2019, and talking about what we’re looking forward to in 2020. We’d love to hear about your favs from the year and what you’re looking forward to in the upcoming year! Hit us up on twitter or Instagram! We put a lot of work into this podcast this year. K crunched some numbers! Please consider supporting our labor by leaving us a one-time tip on Ko-fi. Even better yet, become a monthly patron via Patreon and…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Ereader with SPIN THE DAWN on top of a red book next to a cup of coffee

    Episode 24: Spin the Dawn by Elizabeth Lim

    July 16, 2019
    A Song of Wraiths and Ruin on a blue, white and gold marbled background

    Episode 39: A Song of Wraiths and Ruin by Roseanne A. Brown

    October 20, 2020
    Hardcover copy of Six of Crows in front of a winding dirt road. Background is snowy mountains and bright blue sky

    Episode 22: Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo

    June 18, 2019
  • Map from Labyrinth Lost by Zoraida Cordova
    Episodes

    Episode 28: Labyrinth Lost by Zoraida Córdova

    December 23, 2019 /

    Hello, magical listeners! We’re coming at you this week with a discussion of Labyrinth Lost by Zoraida Córdova, the first in the Brooklyn Brujas series. J & K discuss the failed system of incarceration and the implications of those systems on brown people, beautiful world building, and Latin American folklore. There may also be a few tangents along the way… And there are some spoilers for the movie Coco. There aren’t a ton of show notes this week. See you in a fortnight! Full transcript included below. Or access the pdf version.  We talked a bit about diversity in YA, but here are the stats from 2018, which includes children’s…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Paperback version of Rena Barron's KINGDOM OF SOULS lies on bright green grass

    Episode 27: Kingdom of Souls by Rena Barron

    December 3, 2019
    Book, Deathless Divide on a purple background with the Knight of Swords tarot card to the right

    Episode 48: Deathless Divide by Justina Ireland

    February 23, 2021
    Paperback copy of The Marrow Thieves held in J's left hand. A natural landscape of greens and browns is in the background.

    Episode 30: The Marrow Thieves by Cherie Dimaline

    June 17, 2020
  • Paperback version of Rena Barron's KINGDOM OF SOULS lies on bright green grass
    Episodes

    Episode 27: Kingdom of Souls by Rena Barron

    December 3, 2019 /

    Oh hello again, magical listeners! J had the pleasure of reading an ARC of Rena Barron’s Kingdom of Souls, and we’re finally bringing you our conversation about this expansive, thrilling novel. It has one of the the most complex magical systems of anything we’ve read for the podcast so far. Enjoy! Content warning: we briefly discuss sexual violence in this episode. Here is a resource for those who need help: RAINN – Anti-sex violence assistance. Call 800-856-4619 or visit their website for assistance. Take care, listeners. Please excuse the erratic release schedule lately – J & K are both in grad school and the struggle is real. And now…links! You…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    paperback copy of Queen of the Conquered on top of a purple and white decorative paper

    Episode 45: Queen of the Conquered by Kacen Callender

    January 12, 2021
    Picture of Children of Virtue and Vengeance on a white comforter

    Episode 34: Children of Virtue and Vengeance by Tomi Adeyemi

    August 11, 2020
    Hardcover of Wicked Fox on a maroon background

    Episode 40: Wicked Fox by Kat Cho

    November 3, 2020
  • Book The Infinite Noise by Lauren Shippen in a pile of brown and reddish leaves and green grass
    Episodes

    Episode 26: The Infinite Noise by Lauren Shippen

    November 5, 2019 /

    Hello, magical listeners, and welcome back! We are starting season 2 by reading The Infinite Noise by Lauren Shippen. We’re talking science fiction, mental health, and sexist school norms in this fortnight’s episode. *We received this book as an ARC form the author* We want to give a content warning for this episode as we discuss issues of depression and self harm. If you or someone you know needs help, please contact The Trevor Project . The Bright Sessions podcast Highly Sensitive People v Empaths The AM Archives podcast A Blade So Black by L.L. McKinney is a book that is fantastic at describing the race of ALL characters Our…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Novel GIRLS OF PAPER AND FIRE surrounded by three candles

    Episode 11: Girls of Paper and Fire by Natasha Ngan

    January 14, 2019
    The Poppy War by RF Kuang against the backdrop of a snowy landscape

    Episode 15: The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang

    March 11, 2019
    Map from Labyrinth Lost by Zoraida Cordova

    Episode 28: Labyrinth Lost by Zoraida Córdova

    December 23, 2019
  • Light-skinned black hand holds HOUSE OF SALT AND SORROWS
    Episodes

    Episode 25 House of Salt and Sorrows by Erin A. Craig (slash an entire year of the show!!)

    August 7, 2019 /

    Have you ever imagined what Downton Abbey would be like if it took place in the Iron Islands and was actually a supernatural murder mystery inspired by a Brothers Grimm story?? Well, House of Salt and Sorrows by Erin A. Craig is all that and much more! Tune in for K’s double entendres and puns and stay for J’s incisive comments about mental illness and ability, along with discussions of numerous other important topics (e.g., whiteness, gender, heteronormativity, class). Before we send you off into the wonderful world of links, let’s do a bit of housekeeping. We have been making this podcast for a year…WHAT!?! Time flies when you are…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Jessie holding a mug of butterbeer

    Episode 19: Interview with Jessie

    May 5, 2019
    Hardcover of Wicked Fox on a maroon background

    Episode 40: Wicked Fox by Kat Cho

    November 3, 2020
    Picture of Children of Virtue and Vengeance on a white comforter

    Episode 34: Children of Virtue and Vengeance by Tomi Adeyemi

    August 11, 2020
  • Ereader with SPIN THE DAWN on top of a red book next to a cup of coffee
    Episodes

    Episode 24: Spin the Dawn by Elizabeth Lim

    July 16, 2019 /

    Hello, dear listeners! This fortnight we’re reading Spin the Dawn by Elizabeth Lim, a new retelling of Mulan. We found some pretty problematic areas in the book, but found the story quite captivating overall. As a note, we did receive this book as an ARC, but our feelings and reactions to the story are honest. Content Warning: This book deals with some heavy violence issues. It comes up briefly in the episode. First, we would like to point out that we talked about there being a “miracle cure” for a disability in the book. Apparently, this was changed in the final book, but there are still issues of ableism and…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    A Song of Wraiths and Ruin on a blue, white and gold marbled background

    Episode 39: A Song of Wraiths and Ruin by Roseanne A. Brown

    October 20, 2020
    Cover art of RUIN AND RISING

    Episode 9: Ruin and Rising by Leigh Bardugo

    December 17, 2018
    A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas in front of the snowy CO front range

    Episode 14: A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas

    February 25, 2019
  • Novel CITY OF BRASS on multicolored fabric
    Episodes

    Episode 23: The City of Brass by S.A. Chakraborty

    July 4, 2019 /

    Magical listeners! We’re taking a break from YA this fortnight to bring you an episode about the incredible fantasy novel The City of Brass by S.A. Chakraborty. The show notes happen to be long this time — why not Ravenclaw-it-up and check out the links to learn some stuff? About magic, fiction, history, religion, language: The author has curated a reading list of narrative sources, primary sources, and folktales about the “early Islamic world” (a very broad term) for those who are interested in learning more. Book 2 of the Daevabad trilogy, The Kingdom of Copper, came out in January 2019 (we can’t wait to read it!). The Empire of…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Kelly smiles with a mug of butter beer in her hand

    Episode 20: Interview with Kelly

    May 20, 2019
    Novel CHILDREN OF BLOOD AND BONE on top of red journal next to "brave wizards" candle

    Episode 2: Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi

    September 10, 2018
    Jessie holding a mug of butterbeer

    Episode 19: Interview with Jessie

    May 5, 2019
  • Hardcover copy of Six of Crows in front of a winding dirt road. Background is snowy mountains and bright blue sky
    Episodes

    Episode 22: Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo

    June 18, 2019 /

    This fortnight we’re discussing Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo. The first book in the Six of Crows duology and the fourth book in the Grishaverse series. We discussed a wide range of topics including slavery, sex work, and stereotypes of different cultures. Content warning: In this episode we discuss sexual harassment, sex slavery, and childhood trauma/violence We promised resources for those who might need them. Please get help if you need it: RAINN – Anti-sex violence assistance. Call 800-856-4619 or visit their website for assistance ChildHelp – Child Abuse – Call 1-800-422-4453 for assistance Safe Place or National Runaway Safeline – Assistance for young people experiencing homelessness with both…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Jessie holding a mug of butterbeer

    Episode 19: Interview with Jessie

    May 5, 2019
    Light-skinned brown hand holds novel A DREAM SO DARK. Shelves of library books in the background.

    Episode 31: A Dream So Dark by L.L. McKinney

    June 30, 2020
    Hardcover version of Nocturna sit on a bright red background

    Episode 41: Nocturna by Maya Motayne

    November 17, 2020
  • Hardcover copy of A Court of Mist and Fury with bus seats in the background
    Episodes

    Episode 21: A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas

    June 5, 2019 /

    Finally, the ACOMAF episode is here! J & K both adore ACOMAF, and in the spirit of that affection, we don’t shy away from dredging up the novel’s problematic aspects. Generous and loving critique is, after all, what our podcast is all about. If you need a refresher, catch up on our discussion of A Court of Thorns and Roses And now, copious show notes and links: “O I forbid you, maidens a’,That wear gowd on your hair,To come or gae by Carterhaugh,For young Tam Lin is there.” –– “The Ballad of Tam Lin” is a faerie legend from Scottish lands and it tells the story of a mortal woman…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Hardcover of The Dragon Republic lays on top of decorative paper with anatomical heart drawings

    Episode 43: The Dragon Republic by R.F. Kuang

    December 15, 2020
    Paperback copy of The Marrow Thieves held in J's left hand. A natural landscape of greens and browns is in the background.

    Episode 30: The Marrow Thieves by Cherie Dimaline

    June 17, 2020
    Light-skinned brown hand holds novel A DREAM SO DARK. Shelves of library books in the background.

    Episode 31: A Dream So Dark by L.L. McKinney

    June 30, 2020
  • Kelly smiles with a mug of butter beer in her hand
    Episodes

    Episode 20: Interview with Kelly

    May 20, 2019 /

    Hey listeners, welcome to the second (and final) installment of our interview mini-sodes! In this episode, Kelly fields questions from Jessie about a plethora of extremely important topics including superpowers, fur babies, astrology, and books (#obvi). Like Jessie did for the last episode, I (Kelly) am updating the show notes with information I forgot to share in the interview. Feast your ears! My dogs are named after two Battlestar Galactica characters: Starbuck (callsign for Kara Thrace) and Helo (callsign for Karl Agathon). The Portlandia episode about BSG describes how all-consuming the show can be. A friend sent me this wonderful video from the show Crazy Ex-Girlfriend about normalizing antidepressant and…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Ereader with SPIN THE DAWN on top of a red book next to a cup of coffee

    Episode 24: Spin the Dawn by Elizabeth Lim

    July 16, 2019
    Hardcover copy of Mackenzi Lee's A Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue sits on a dark wood desk next to a white mug with a "k" on it. Bookshelves in the backgroud

    Episode 12: A Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue by Mackenzi Lee

    January 28, 2019
    The Poppy War by RF Kuang against the backdrop of a snowy landscape

    Episode 15: The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang

    March 11, 2019
  • Jessie holding a mug of butterbeer
    Episodes

    Episode 19: Interview with Jessie

    May 5, 2019 /

    Hey, everyone! We’ve decided to do something different and interview each other for the next two episodes so you can get to know us better! In this first interview, Kelly is interviewing Jessie. Is there anything you were surprised to learn? Jessie is writing the show notes to include anything else she forgot to say in her interview! I am huge supporter of #adoptdontshop, because adopting a pet means saving a life. Lainey (the podcat!) was adopted, and I love her so much. She is one of the best things that ever happened to me. Also, if you’re getting a cat, please do not declaw them! #pawsneedclaws Cats need their…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Hardcover of Wicked Fox on a maroon background

    Episode 40: Wicked Fox by Kat Cho

    November 3, 2020
    Cover art of RUIN AND RISING

    Episode 9: Ruin and Rising by Leigh Bardugo

    December 17, 2018
    paperback copy of Queen of the Conquered on top of a purple and white decorative paper

    Episode 45: Queen of the Conquered by Kacen Callender

    January 12, 2021
  • Hardcover of Justina Ireland's novel Dread Nation on a wooden desk
    Episodes

    Episode 18: Dread Nation by Justina Ireland

    April 21, 2019 /

    This fortnight we’re discussing Dread Nation by Justina Ireland, one of the most intersectional books we’ve read yet! We talked about the intersectionality of race, class, gender, and colonialism. We chatted about shipping, impostor syndrome, and many many other things. We adored this book, and we can’t wait to see what Justina Ireland has in store for us next! As always, we had a bunch of things we talked about, and you can find that information in the show notes below (these may be our longest show notes yet!). Justina Ireland also provided a list of book resources, and those are also listed below. Let’s start with the resources Justina…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Hardcover of The Dragon Republic lays on top of decorative paper with anatomical heart drawings

    Episode 43: The Dragon Republic by R.F. Kuang

    December 15, 2020
    Light-skinned black hand holds HOUSE OF SALT AND SORROWS

    Episode 25 House of Salt and Sorrows by Erin A. Craig (slash an entire year of the show!!)

    August 7, 2019
    Paperback version of Rena Barron's KINGDOM OF SOULS lies on bright green grass

    Episode 27: Kingdom of Souls by Rena Barron

    December 3, 2019
  • Highlighted section of text (Descendant of the Crane by Joan He) on a black kindle. A sunflower sits on top of the kindle
    Episodes

    Episode 17: Descendant of the Crane by Joan He

    April 8, 2019 /

    This week we’re discussing Descendant of the Crane by Joan He. We received this book for free from Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review (which we promise to always provide). We discussed monarchies, constitutions, colorism, and magic this week, as well as many other topics. Below are links to all the resources and things we had to look up, some of which included looking things up while we were recording, I left it in, because I think it’s cool to see the process. And J is back to calling everything interesting… Cranes were mentioned in the title, but they are often mentioned throughout the story. Turns out, they’re pretty…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Novel A BLADE SO BLACK surrounded by a circle of playing cards

    Episode 13: A Blade So Black by L.L. McKinney

    February 11, 2019
    Novel CITY OF BRASS on multicolored fabric

    Episode 23: The City of Brass by S.A. Chakraborty

    July 4, 2019
    Hardcover version of Nocturna sit on a bright red background

    Episode 41: Nocturna by Maya Motayne

    November 17, 2020
  • Two hardcover copies of the The WIcked King on top of a navy and green crocheted blanket
    Episodes

    Episode 16: The Wicked King by Holly Black

    March 26, 2019 /

    Happy Spring, listeners! In Episode 16 we discuss The Wicked King by Holly Black, the much-awaited sequel to The Cruel Prince. Content warning: emotional and physical child abuse. ChildHelp – Child Abuse Assistance – Call 1-800-422-4453 if you or someone you know is the victim of child abuse Below you can find links to all of the topics and references that came up in our conversation. And 10 points to Gryffindor if you can count the number of times K say the word “fascinating”. Is it the shiny, new replacement for “interesting”?? Only time will tell. If, like us, you’ve ever had a hard time distinguishing between an anti hero…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Hardcover copy of A Court of Mist and Fury with bus seats in the background

    Episode 21: A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas

    June 5, 2019
    Highlighted section of text (Descendant of the Crane by Joan He) on a black kindle. A sunflower sits on top of the kindle

    Episode 17: Descendant of the Crane by Joan He

    April 8, 2019
    Hardcover of Justina Ireland's novel Dread Nation on a wooden desk

    Episode 18: Dread Nation by Justina Ireland

    April 21, 2019
  • The Poppy War by RF Kuang against the backdrop of a snowy landscape
    Episodes

    Episode 15: The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang

    March 11, 2019 /

    This fortnight J & K are discussing The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang. We’re diverting a bit from our usual YA Fantasy books. This book is definitely for adults, and not for the faint of heart! The characters are complicated, the story is complex and violent, and there is a ton of action. Content Warning: In this episode we discuss drug use, rape, genocide, and other instances of extreme violence.  ChildHelp – Child Abuse – Call 1-800-422-4453 for assistance We apologize ahead of time for any mispronounced words, names, and/or places. As is usual, we referenced quite a few things, and you can find more information below! Shamanism Drug traditions from around the world and hallucinogenic drugs The history of The War on Drugs in the US K…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Hardcover of The Dragon Republic lays on top of decorative paper with anatomical heart drawings

    Episode 43: The Dragon Republic by R.F. Kuang

    December 15, 2020
    An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir surround by red maple leaves

    Episode 4: An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir

    October 7, 2018
    Shadow and Bone on grey and white wool blanket

    Episode 1 (!!!) Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo

    August 26, 2018
  • A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas in front of the snowy CO front range
    Episodes

    Episode 14: A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas

    February 25, 2019 /

    Listeners, the time has finally come to talk about A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas, the first book in one of our favorite series. We saved the rest of the series spoilers for a special end segment that begins around 1:11:45. If you haven’t read the rest of the books and/or don’t want spoilers, be sure to skip that! You’ll notice that the show notes are short this time – surprisingly, we stayed pretty close to the source text in our discussion. Off brand, we know. Don’t fret, we’ll probably be back to our regular encyclopedic show notes antics for Ep 15. “There’s a Weird, Sexist Problem in Fantasy That We…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Shadow and Bone on grey and white wool blanket

    Episode 1 (!!!) Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo

    August 26, 2018
    White hand holds A REAPER AT THE GATES with lush forest in the background

    Episode 10 (!): A Reaper at the Gates by Sabaa Tahir

    December 31, 2018
    A Song of Wraiths and Ruin on a blue, white and gold marbled background

    Episode 39: A Song of Wraiths and Ruin by Roseanne A. Brown

    October 20, 2020
  • Novel A BLADE SO BLACK surrounded by a circle of playing cards
    Episodes

    Episode 13: A Blade So Black by L.L. McKinney

    February 11, 2019 /

    This fortnight we’re discussing A Blade So Black by L.L. McKinney, and there were a ton of Alice in Wonderland puns from K, as this is a modern retelling of the story. Don’t expect to get any hints about this story because you read the original. This is a whole new take! As always, there were a ton of outside sources mentioned, and hopefully we caught them all to add to the show notes. If you have any questions or suggestions, we’d love to hear from you! Sweet potato pie or pumpkin pie? Which do you prefer? For many African Americans sweet potato pie wins every time, but where did…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    Paperback copy of Blanca & Roja rests on background of purple and navy flowers

    Episode 44: Blanca & Roja by Anna-Marie McLemore

    December 29, 2020
    Map from Labyrinth Lost by Zoraida Cordova

    Episode 28: Labyrinth Lost by Zoraida Córdova

    December 23, 2019
    Book Gods of Jade and Shadow on a black marble background

    Episode 33: Gods of Jade and Shadow by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

    July 29, 2020
  • Hardcover copy of Mackenzi Lee's A Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue sits on a dark wood desk next to a white mug with a "k" on it. Bookshelves in the backgroud
    Episodes

    Episode 12: A Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue by Mackenzi Lee

    January 28, 2019 /

    Hello esteemed listeners! We adored A Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue by Mackenzi Lee*!! What a delightful romp of a book*. Below you’ll find plenty of links and resources to complement our discussion. **We want to recognize that Mackenzi Lee has been pretty problematic as a person and author, and we while we did enjoy this book at the time, we will not be reading or podcasting about her books in the future.  Content Warning: In this episode we discuss emotional and physical abuse as well as addiction.  If you or someone you know are the victim of sexual assault and would like assistance, please call RAINN (Call 800-856-4619 or…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    hardcover of the Queen of Nothing on a black marble background

    Episode 35: Queen of Nothing by Holly Black

    August 25, 2020
    Jessie holding a mug of butterbeer

    Episode 19: Interview with Jessie

    May 5, 2019
    Highlighted section of text (Descendant of the Crane by Joan He) on a black kindle. A sunflower sits on top of the kindle

    Episode 17: Descendant of the Crane by Joan He

    April 8, 2019
  • Novel GIRLS OF PAPER AND FIRE surrounded by three candles
    Episodes

    Episode 11: Girls of Paper and Fire by Natasha Ngan

    January 14, 2019 /

    Happy New Year, Listeners! We are excited to read and discuss new (and old) book with this year. Any suggestions for books you’d like to read with us? This fortnight we’re discussing Girls of Paper and Fire by Natasha Ngan . J & K have some mixed feeling about this book. We loved the elaborate back story and well fleshed out setting, but had some difficulty with the pacing. And obvi, we were excited to have many different kinds of representation in this book. What were your thoughts about this story? Content Warning: In this episode we discuss sexual assault and rape  If you or someone you know are the victim of sexual…

    Read More

    You May Also Like

    The Cruel Prince by Holly Black on top of a fuzzy blue blanket

    Episode 8: The Cruel Prince by Holly Black

    December 3, 2018
    Hardcover copy of A Court of Mist and Fury with bus seats in the background

    Episode 21: A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas

    June 5, 2019
    book Bruja Born on a white background with skulls

    Episode 38: Bruja Born by Zoraida Córdova

    October 6, 2020
  • White hand holds A REAPER AT THE GATES with lush forest in the background
    Episodes

    Episode 10 (!): A Reaper at the Gates by Sabaa Tahir

    December 31, 2018 /

    Listeners, we made it to Episode 10! A Reaper at the Gates by Sabaa Tahir made J & K fear for the fate of our favorite characters and ships in upcoming 4th book of the Ember in the Ashes Series. At one point we discuss the possible importance of the Nightbringer’s true name and wonder if true names “are a thing” with fae. Further research confirms that true names are indeed “a thing”. Episode notes are short this time because it’s New Year’s Eve, and I (K) am about to go make a hazelnut and chocolate crepe cake. Happy New Year! We can’t wait to read more wonderful books in 2019 and keep sharing…

    Read More