Drinks in the Library

This week, we're off to the deceptively cozy village of St. Mary Mead, where gossip flows freely and murder is just around the hedgerow. Join us as Miss Marple makes her unforgettable debut in The Murder at the Vicarage—knitting needles in hand and sharper than ever.My guest this week is author Kemper Donovan. Kemper began his writing career while still working as a manager, eventually publishing his debut novel, The Decent Proposal, after a lengthy journey to publication. Around the same time, he co-created the podcast All About Agatha with his friend Catherine Brobeck, celebrating the work of Agatha Christie. Following Catherine's passing in 2021, Kemper has continued the podcast on his own, and his passion for Christie's mysteries led him to create his own Ghostwriter mystery series including books The Busy Body and Loose Lips, now published by Kensington Books. He lives with his husband and their two daughters, and when not writing or podcasting, he enjoys running and making valiant attempts at playing the violin.Our drink this week is Miss Marples Cherrry Blossom from the book Agatha Whiskey by Colleen Mullany in which Kemper wrote the forward!MISS MARPLE'S CHERRY BLOSSOM Serves 2Miss Jane Marple's character is based loosely on Agatha's grandmother and her friends, and has appeared in twelve novels and twenty short stories. She makes her own cherry brandy from her garden, claiming that a bit of brandy helps ease one's nerves. Cheers to that, Jane!1 ounce gin1 ounce cherry brandy1 ounce sake¾ ounce grenadine1 ounce lemon juiceEdible flowers for garnishIn a shaker with ice, combine all ingredients. Shake well, strain into coupe glasses, garnish with edible flowers, and serve.Mocktail! Replace the gin with Monday or another nonalcoholic spirit, the cherry brandy with San Pellegrino's Sanbitter Red or another nonalcoholic aperitif, and the sake with Gekkeiken alcohol-free Daiginjo Sake or another nonalcoholic sake. Prepare as above.In this EpisodeAll About Agatha PodcastKemper's WebsiteHercule Poirot SeriesThe Murder at the Vicarage Episode- All About Agatha PodcastDr. Mark Aldridge - Agatha Christie HistorianShedunnit PodcastAnne of Green Gables Episode -Drinks in the Library

Welcome to this week's episode of Drinks in the Library! Today we're exploring Nettle & Bone by T. Kingfisher, a darkly whimsical tale of a shy princess who undertakes an impossible quest — armed with a dustwitch, a reluctant fairy godmother, and a dog made of bones — to rescue her sister from a cruel prince and a cursed kingdom. My guest this week is my husband, Bill Howard. I asked if he wanted me to read a little bio for him, and he said he'd actually prefer to have even less of himself on the internet — which, frankly, is impossible given all the stuff I've already spilled about him on this podcast. Both Bill and I love Nettle & Bone so much and it was fun to talk with him about it! This book is a dark fairy tale and I wanted to pick a dark drink, I think any will do but I went with an Espresso Martini because that is one of Bill's favorite cocktails. Espresso Martini 1 ounce espresso or cold brew coffee2 ounces vodka1 ounce coffee liqueur, I used Virago, and RVA distillery.5 ounce simple syrup, or to tasteIce Shake with ice and strain into a cocktail glass. You can be cute an garnish it with coffee beans if you want! In this Episode Rick Flair Charlotte Hornets Starter Jackets Books by T. Kingfisher Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson DITL Episode Hyperion by Dan Simmons DITL Episode Family Search Hugo Awards

Hello Libration Nation, this week we are discussing The Women by Kristin Hannah. The Women is a powerful, heart-wrenching novel that follows a young nurse, Frankie McGrath, as she volunteers to serve in the Vietnam War — a world of violence, loss, and unspoken heroism. Through her journey, Hannah shines a light on the often overlooked stories of the women who fought, served, and survived, both overseas and at home.My guest this week is my friend and neighbor, Sarah Glover. Sarah is a teacher by day, mom 24/7. Baker of cookies and sarcasm. Fueled by coffee, true crime, and dark humor. Probably judging your grammar while reading murder mysteries.Our drink this week was Cut Water Mai Tais! In the book while on R&R Frankie and her friends cut loose with this refreshing, fruity rum drink, so Sarah and I decided to as well!My plug for this week is that it's Independent Bookstore Day this coming Saturday April 26th. Please make an effort to support your local shop by visiting them in person or shopping online or through Bookshop.org Here in Richmond you can visit nine participating shops for a chance to earn a $50 gift card. Start at any of the nine participating stores and they will give you a Passport and your first stamp. First day is April 26th. You have until May 10th to get all nine. Nine participating stores:@resist_bks (Sat pop up with @thelitbaebookshop)@tlbookshopva @bbgbbooks @fountainbookstore @abi_books_brews @bookpeoplerva @ilysm_books @midlobooks @shelflifebooksrvaIn this EpisodeBooks by Kristin Hannah

Hello Libration Nation! This week we are discussing Still Life with Woodpecker by Tom Robbins. This is a love story… kind of. It's about a princess, an outlaw, a lot of philosophical rambling, and a surprising number of Camel cigarettes. Tom Robbins basically asks: how do you make love stay? The answers are weird, hilarious, and occasionally involve explosives. I'm so excited for my guest this week: Michael Bickett is an award-winning podcaster with over a decade of experience and 1,000+ podcast credits. As the Founder and COO of Certified Crucial, he helps creators monetize their podcasts through eco-friendly, custom merchandise solutions. Michael is also the Founder and CEO of Geeks Under the Influence, an award-winning digital media company and podcast network. A mentor for the RVA Community of Podcasters, he's passionate about making the podcast industry more inclusive and accessible. With expertise in branding, monetization, and community-building, Michael is a sought-after speaker on topics like creator-driven merchandise, co-branded deals, and creating equitable opportunities in digital spaces. Since Tom Robbins did spend some time here in Richmond, I wanted to pick a drink that is local. We went with Kopper Kettle's Bourbon Whiskey In this Episode Geeks Under the Influence Digital Media Certified Crucial Michael Bickett Linktree Village Café - Richmond, Virginia Books by Tom Robbins On the Road - Jack Kerouac Books by Kurt Vonnegut - Or listen to my Slaughterhouse Five Episode

Hi Libration Nation! I am coming to you this National Library week with a delightful book Every Heart a Doorway by Seanan McGuire, which offers a whimsical, yet dark exploration of fantasy realms where each child's story revolves around finding and losing mystical doors to other worlds. My guest this week is Britt Keup. Britt is a corporate girly by day, and an avid reader at night. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Britt created her Bookstagram account, what_britt_reads, to share her lifelong love of reading and be a part of a community that loves reading as much as she does. Although she isn't posting on the grid as often, she is still furiously reading behind the scenes and sharing fun instagram stories about all of the books she's reading and her love of her two pups, Ollie and Smokey. Aside from devouring a great book, Britt enjoys spending time with her fiancé, Bryan, her pups, fitness, live music, spending time with friends and she's currently writing her first novel! If you're looking for book recommendations, check her out on her Bookstagram account, what_britt_reads. Our drink this week is one of my favorite Cabernet Sauvignon's, a profile both Britt and I love: Double Black's Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles Lastly, it is National Library Week, support your local library by visiting a branch, getting a library card if you don't already have one, and finding other ways to get involved, libraries need our support now more than ever. In this Episode Throne of Glass by Sarah J Maas ACOTAR - A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas Crescent City Series - by Sarah J. MaasThrone of the Fallen by Kerri Maniscalco

Hello Libration Nation!, I am so excited for you to hear this week's episode. Our book is Say Nothing: A True Story of Murder and Memory in Northern Ireland by Patrick Radden Keefe, and my guest is the absolutely amazing Forest Issac Jones. If you didn't guess it immediately, we paired this book with the most Irish of drinks, a smooth, cold Guinness beer.Forest Issac Jones is an award-winning author of nonfiction, history, and essays. He specializes in Irish history, the US Civil Rights Movement, and Northern Ireland. He lives in Salem, Virginia. His book, Good Trouble: The Selma, Alabama, and Derry, Northern Ireland Connection 1963-1972, will be released on April 1st, 2025, so if you're reading this, it's out!This episode was so special as Forest spoke with me about his experience writing Good Trouble and reading Say Nothing, exploring the Northern Ireland Troubles and the Civil Rights Movement in the United States. I cannot say enough about what I learned through reading this book, interviewing Forest, and all I can say, if you're listening to me, to check out Good Trouble now!And also, if you are loving Drinks in the Library, please go to wherever you listen to your podcasts and leave a review and five stars. I really do check those every week, and it's so encouraging to me to see the numbers go up. Also, support the show by telling two friends about it this week. This really helps me grow and shares our love of books, reading, and, of course, amazing beverages!In this EpisodeSay Nothing Series on HuluDisappearance of Jean McConvilleBloody Sunday, Derry Ireland January 30, 1972Understanding Northern Ireland's TroublesOn Bloody Sunday:A New History of the Day and Its Aftermath by Those Who Were There by Julieann CampbellBurntollet Bridge AttackSelma to Montgomery MarchDolours and Marian PriceGerry AdamsBrendan HughesNorthern Ireland Internment: What is its legacy?Edmund Pettus Bridge Bloody Sunday March 7, 1965Eamonn McCannMarian Price lawsuit against Disney+ over Say Nothing TV ShowBoston College Tapes: Troubles CofessionsSheyann Webb-ChristburgRichard SmileyBilly McVeigh and the Derry riotsOnce Upon a Time in Northern Ireland - PBS seriesBernadette Devlin

Hello Libration Nation! I'm thrilled to welcome Sarah Glenn Marsh to this week's episode as we uncover the wonders of "The Last Ranger" by Peter Heller. A thrilling exploration of nature's beauty and human empathy, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat. And we've paired it with the citrusy and daring Lone Ranger cocktail—tequila, lemon, and a hint of rose—capturing the essence of adventure. Sarah Glenn Marsh has been an avid fantasy reader since the day her dad handed her a copy of The Hobbit and promised it would change her life. She believes we all deserve happy endings and is an author of books for everyone, including many young adult, middle grade, and picture book titles. She lives in Richmond, Virginia with her family, including one sweet daughter, one slightly dull sword, and the chaos of many pets, like a turtle named Muffin who she definitely did not bring back from any haunted swamp. We Could Be (Anti)heroes is her first adult novel and will be coming out Spring 2026. And hey, before you go—if you're loving Drinks in the Library, can you do me a favor? Drop a quick review, hit us with some stars, and most importantly, tell two friends this week. Sharing is caring, and it helps us keep the good times rolling. The Lone Ranger Cocktail (fron liquor.com) 1 1/2 ounces tequila1 ounce lemon juice1/2 ounce rich simple syrup2 ounces brut rosé sparkling wineGarnish: lemon twist Add the tequila, lemon juice and simple syrup to a shaker with ice and shake until well-chilled.Add the sparkling wine.Strain into a Collins glass filled with fresh ice.Garnish with a lemon twist. In this Episode Sarah's Books on Bookshop.org The Last Ranger by Peter Heller Sarah Glenn Marsh's Website Kook by Peter Heller Yellowstone National Park Fota Wildlife Park in Ireland Once There Were Wolves by Charlotte McConaghy

Hello, Libration Nation!

Hello, Libration Nation!

Our book this week is the classic love, revenge, and ghost story, Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë, and my guest this week is Carrie Pruett.Carrie is a power user of the Henrico County, Virginia library. She loves books, movies, and also loves podcasts about books and movies. She frequently appears on the podcast 'Worst Bestsellers' to talk about teenage vampires and horse girls. When she was 13, she accidentally read 'Wuthering Heights' because her mom told her it was 'like Pride and Prejudice.' (It wasn't). Ever since then, she has enjoyed stories about terrible people who make bad decisions, especially if they do it in English country houses.Our drink this week is a Sam Smith beer from Yorkshire England, near the Moores where Wuthering Heights is set. Sam Smith is Yorkshire's oldest brewery, it even predates the Brontë sisters and was is a great drink to enjoy while reading this dark, brooding ghost storyIf you enjoy the show, please either head over to where you get your podcast and give me 5 stars and a review, or tell two people about it this week. This helps me grow the show and keep it going, as always, I appreciate your support!In this EpisodeGone Girl by Gillian FlynnBooks by Tana FrenchJane Eyre by Charlotte BrontëBooks by Thomas Hardy All Creatures Great and Small by James HerriotThe Brontës by Juliet BarkerWorst Bestsellers Podcast

Raise your wands Libration Nation! This week's book is Carry On by Rainbow Rowell a magical mages story about Simon Snow, the worst chosen one ever according to his roommate and nemesis, Baz. Carry On is the first book in a trilogy and is a ghost story, a love story and a mystery. It has just as much kissing and talking as you'd expect from a Rainbow Rowell story - but far, far more monsters. My guest this week is Rachel Yorkshire, she lives in Richmond with her wife Marissa and their very spoiled dog. She and her wife both post their bookish endeavors and reviews over on their bookstagram lesbereaders, and they would love for you to give them a follow. If she's not reading, Rachel is probably daydreaming, laughing with friends, or bothering her dog. In this story Simon is known for devouring Sour Cherry Scones, so our drink pages homage to that with a Tart Cherry Cocktail! Sparkling Cherry Lime Mocktail (from a life delicious) Ingredients1/4 cup Frozen Cherries (dark, sweet & red tart)1/2 lime juice2 tbsps Tart Cherry Juice, unsweetenedIceSparkling WaterGarnish with fresh mint and/or limeIn this EpisodeFangirl by Rainbow RowellTJ Klune BooksCasey McQuiston BooksLegends and Lattes by Travis BaldreeFandom Forward (formerly the Harry Potter Alliance)Tumblrarians List from my friend Kate Tkacik's Tumblr (I miss those days so much!)

Happy One Year Anniversary, Libration Nation!

This week's episode covers the Detective Josie Quinn series by Lisa Regan, a police procedural in a small town in Pennsylvania, and my guest this week is Kristin Miller. Kristin is an 80s baby who is an explorer at heart. She is a lifelong reader who recently returned to the US after living abroad in five different countries over nine years. She is now an elementary ESL teacher here in Virginia. Josie Quinn is a coffee fanatic getting drinks at her local coffee shop, so Kristin and I grabbed coffees from one of my favorite local coffee shops: Coco And Hazel! In this EpisodeLisa Regan's WebsiteLisa Regan's FacebookLisa Regan's Readers Lounge for FansCastle SeriesBones SeriesSue Grafton Alphabet Series Lynn Raye Harris BooksAllison Brennan BooksLaura Griffin BooksMelinda Leigh BooksKendra Elliott Books

When I was a baby librarian there was not a book requested more than The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan, and all the books that came after it in the series. I was so excited when this week's guest wanted to talk about it!Madison is a lover of history that hosts the history podcast It's a History Podcast that covers all things history. When she is not working on researching, recording, or editing, she has her nose in a book. While currently immersed in the “Romantasy” series of ACOTAR and Fourth Wing, Madison's love for fantasy started with the Percy Jackson and the Olympian series. Having read the series all in one go, Madison has reread these books a number of times. They were an important part of her finding her love for fantasy, as well as furthering her love for reading. Our drink this week is a Blue Hawaii Cocktail, as you will find out, Percy has a bit of an obsession with blue foods, and he just cannot stay away from water, so this drink is a perfect match! Blue Hawaii Cocktail (from liquor.com) 3/4 ounce vodka3/4 ounce light rum1/2 ounce blue curaçao3 ounces pineapple juice1 ounce sweet and sour mix In This EpisodeIt's a History Podcast - AppleIt's a History Podcast - SpotifyLet's Talk About Myths Baby - PodcastMythology - Edith HamiltonThe Lightning Thief - FilmACOTAR - A Court of Thorns and Roses - Sarah J. MaasFourth Wing - Listen to my Fourth Wing Episode!

This week we are discussing The Big Leap: Conquer Your Hidden Fear and take life to the next level level by Gay Hendricks. This book encourages readers to go beyond their internal limits, release outdated fears and learn a whole new set of powerful skills and habits to liberate authentic greatness. I am joined this week with author Nancy Houser-Bluhm. Nancy Houser-Bluhm lived in the foothills west of Denver, Colorado for over 25 years with her husband and menagerie of pets. She hailed from Michigan but growing up watching Bonanza, led to a longing to go west.. They have journeyed back to Michigan and are creating a new “Bluhmerosa”. Years of rock climbing and skiing shifted to biking, skiing, yoga, breathing in nature; and daily doses of writing with a variety of groups. Her most recent novel, The Nickel Loop was released July 22, 2024 DrinkIn Nancy's latest book the character enjoys the classic Four Roses Bourbon so Nancy and I sipped on that as we talked! In this EpisodeNancy's Website Buy Nancy's books!Nancy's BlogSage Adderly Creative WritingA Year in Balance by Angela Cominos Koehler

I'm so excited to bring you something a little different—not a book, but a genre that's new to me: FanFiction. Specifically, Dramione Fanfiction, which features stories pairing Harry Potter villain Draco Malfoy with Hermione Granger, the series' female lead, heroine, and Harry's BFF. In this episode, I'm joined by a fellow RVA book-lover, Jaclyn Wilkins, who explains to me (and you!) the ins and outs of the Dramione Fanfiction world.Jaclyn is the owner of The Bookmark, RVA's only mobile bookstore! She's a stay-at-home mom whose favorite hobby—reading—turned into her dream job. She loves fantasy and world-building books the most and is always happy to recommend them to her customers. In her store, you'll find new releases, pre-loved books, and bookish merchandise, all available at local markets in Richmond, VA. You can find details about her next stop on her Instagram, @thebookmarkbox. She's eager to meet more book besties, so be sure to stop by and chat with her about your favorite books!Our drink this week comes from Fiction & Fizz. Jaclyn reached out to founder Kimberly Parrilla to find the perfect drink to pair with Draco and Hermione's angst and romance—a Firewhiskey! (It was absolutely amazing, by the way!)Firewhiskey Recipe - from Fiction & Fizz2 oz Fireball Whiskey3 - 4 oz Pineapple JuiceShake and serve over ice, enjoy!In this EpisodeManacled by SenLinYuACOTAR - A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J MassAvendell Artwork from ManacledRoses and Chains by Julie SotoThe Right Thing To Do by LovesBitca8 (Julie Soto)All The Wrong Things by LovesBitca8 (Julie Soto)The Auction by LovesBitca8 (Julie Soto)Secrets and Masks by Emerald_SlytherinGreenlight by SereneMusafirLakeside Farmer's Market Lovefest - Find Jaclyn here February 9th!

Today we're stepping into the surreal, tragic, and darkly comedic world of Kurt Vonnegut's Slaughterhouse-Five—a story about war, time travel, and what it means to say, 'So it goes.' My guest this week is Kat McClesse. Kat is an Archaeologist with her M.A. in Bioarchaeology and an amateur photographer. Slaughterhouse Five has been one of her favorite books since childhood and sparked a lifelong interest in activism and human rights. She's has a passion for horror and has driven her fiance insane with "too many books" (his words). They live in Tuckahoe, Virginia with their 2 cats. The protagonist of this story is Billy Pilgrim, a veteran of WWII who becomes unstuck in time. An important moment in the story is where time is explained as a bug caught in amber, so we paired it with an “Amber Old Fashioned” Amber Old Fashioned Recipe (from vinepair.com)1 ounce bourbon1 ounce rich aged rum1 tablespoon simple syrup1 dash peach bitters1 dash Angostura bittersGarnish: Citrus peel Directions Add all ingredients to a mixing glass with ice and stir until chilled.Strain into a rocks glass with fresh ice.Garnish with citrus peel. In This EpisodeThe Things They Carried by Tim O'BrienUnbroken by Laura HillenbrandThe Writer's Crusade by Tom RostonI Am Malala by Malala YousafzaiSlaughterhouse Five: the Graphic Novel by Ryan North and Albert Montes

Artist and author Julia Marshel is someone who sees the world through a lens of wonder and joy. From a young age, Julia discovered that if you look closely, the world reveals an infinite variety of amazing things. That same sense of discovery became a gift she and her wife, Claudia, shared with their three daughters, raising them to see and celebrate the beauty in nature. Her books How Many Will We Find? and My Friend the Maple Tree illustrate this love and her desire to pass it on to others. Our drink this week is a Boulevardier, which I chose because of its beautiful red color. Interestingly enough, the red in Campari originally came from Carmine, which is one of the colors Julia talks about in the episode, yes - bug blood! Boulevardier Recipe from Liquor.comIngredients1 1/4 ounces bourbon (or rye)1 ounce Campari1 ounce sweet vermouthGarnish: orange twistStepsAdd bourbon, Campari and sweet vermouth into a mixing glass with ice and stir until well-chilled.Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.Garnish with an orange twist. In this Episode JuliaMarshel.com - Julia's website Buy Julia's Books!Julia Marshel Paints - FacebookJulia Marshel Paints - InstagramColor: A Natural History of the Palette by Victoria FinleyRESONATE Podcast FestivalDaniel Smith YavapaiGeorgia O'Keefe's Ghost RanchBreath (2 AM) by Anna NalickDawn Flores at VMFA

Hello Libration Nation! This week's book is Daring Greatly by Dr. Brené Brown, and I'm talking about it with my fellow librarian and library advocacy rockstar - Sonya Durney! Sonya is a passionate advocate for libraries and open education. Sonya is the Scholarly Communication Research & Teaching Librarian at the University of New England, is past president of the Maine Library Association, a member of the American Library Association Policy Corps, and serves on the executive board of the Maine Freedom of Information Coalition. As the Scholarly Communication Research & Teaching Librarian at the University of New England, Sonya liaises with the College of Business and the School of Social and Behavioral Sciences while actively contributing to various university committees, including the Open Educational Resources Steering Committee, Equity and Diversity Council of Chairs, and the University Faculty Assembly. Sonya holds an MLIS from Simmons College, a BA in Political Science from Framingham State University, and a doctorate in Public Policy focusing on Educational Leadership from the Muskie School of Public Service at the University of Southern Maine. Her research centers on the intersection of public policy and libraries, exploring how legislation shapes access to information. When she's not immersed in her work or reading, Sonya loves to spend time outdoors in Maine, enjoying adventures with her husband, son, and their beloved chocolate lab, Bourbon. The challenges librarians face today echo Brown's idea of “being in the arena.” Whether it's addressing book bans or advocating for community resources, stepping up despite the fear of criticism embodies the very essence of daring greatly, and Sonya shares her experiences and inspiration pulled from Brené Brown's work. Please continue to support your local library by visiting www.UniteAgainstBookBans.org and finding ways you can get involved. Our drink this week is a Mezcal Paloma to highlight Brené Brown's Texas roots, however she is also proudly sober and I wanted to honor that as well, so I'm also including a Paloma recipe using Ritual Zero Proof Tequila, which I have made for a previous episode. Mezcal Paloma (link to full recipe with directions) ¼ cup kosher salt 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 lime, zested and sliced 2 oz Mezcal or sub tequila 2 oz Grapefruit juice 1 oz honey simple syrup Club soda Paloma Recipe (Non-Alcoholic) 3 ounces Ritual tequila 2 ounces fresh grapefruit juice, plus wedges for garnish2 ounces club soda½ ounce lime juice¼ ounce simple syrupIn this episodeALA Policy Corps Maine Library AssociationBooks by Brené BrownBrené Brown's PodcastsSuper Soul Sunday - Oprah's podcast with Brené BrownPodcast episode where Brent discusses libraries“When you defund a library, you can change the economic future of an entire family. So cut that shit out.” -Brené Brown

Hello Libration Nation! This week we are discussing the classic series Animorphs by K.A. Applegate. Animorphs is a collection of 54 middle-grade books in which five young adults are gifted the power to morph into animals. It was a bit of a cult phenomenon when it was originally published in the late '90s and has recently seen a resurgence online.My guest is Fiona Fenn. Fiona is an author of fantasy novels that put complicated “heroes” front and center. A fan of villains, redemption arcs, and intense explorations of healing in all its forms, her debut novel, The Crack at the Heart of Everything, is a love letter to every villain who wanted to do better but never got the chance.I so enjoyed this conversation with Fiona, talking about the Animorphs series and her love for it, as well as her experience writing and publishing her first novel and everything that goes into this process.Our drink this week is a Flying Saucer, as the Animorphs series begins with the kids meeting an alien who has flown to EarthFlying Saucer Recipe (from Bevvy.com)INGREDIENTS1 oz Amaretto Di Saronno liqueur1 oz Kahlua coffee liqueur3 oz cream3 oz iceCombine in blender until smooth and creamy, serve with cinnamon stick for garnish!In this EpisodeFiona Fenn's WebsiteBuy The Crack at the Heart of Everything by Fiona FennMichael Grant Gone seriesTiny Fox PressAnimorphs AloudQueer Liberation LibraryKA Applegate WebsiteFree Animorphs PDFsFiona Fenn's Substack

Hello Libration Nation! In this week's episode I'm chatting with David Crowley, nonprofit leader and podcaster, about The Good Life: Lessons from the World's Longest Scientific Study of Happiness by Robert Waldinger and Mark Schultz. Over a glass of Longevity Cabernet Sauvignon, we explored the Harvard study's core finding: strong, meaningful relationships are key to happiness and health. David shared insights from his work with Social Capital Inc., which combats social isolation, and his personal journey maintaining relationships throughout various phases of life. Together, we reflected on building deeper connections in a digital age.David Crowley founded Social Capital Inc. (SCI) over 20 years ago in his hometown of Woburn, Massachusetts. Under his leadership, SCI has grown to serve communities across the region while continuing to make a difference in Woburn. Prior to SCI, David was the Executive Director of Boston-based Generations Inc. (now Literations). He has been involved in AmeriCorps since the program began in 1993, and served as the founding Director of the Kentucky Community Service Commission, which oversees the program for the state. David graduated from Harvard University with a degree in Government. Unsure of his long term plans, and after many service activities in college, David set out to do a year of service in rural Kentucky, which began his career serving his community! In his free time, he enjoys cooking for his family, reading and walking nearby Horn Pond. He also shares his kitchen creations on his food & wine blog, Cooking Chat. He also hosts two podcasts: Cook Local, Eat Local and SCI's Cultivating Connections podcasts.DrinkLongevity Cabernet SauvignonLongevity WinemakersIn this EpisodeSocial Capital Inc.Cooking Chat (David's Food & Wine Blog)Cook Local, Eat Local PodcastSCI's Cultivating Connections PodcastBowling Alone by Robert D. PutnamRecent NYT interview with Robert Putnam (not mentioned in the episode but really interesting read on loneliness)

Listener update: I am taking a short pause over the holidays from all the editing and content creation that goes into this podcast. I have plenty of recordings completed that I can't wait to share with you, and I plan to air new content every-other week starting next week Tuesday December 3rd. Today's episode is a replay of an episode I released back in June, I hope you enjoy it!So, after all these interviews talking with wonderful people about their favorite books, I felt it was time to share some of my own things, and who better to do that with than my husband Bill as our first guest host?!This week we are talking Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott, one of my favorite books, and a source of inspiration for doing this podcast as well. Our drink this week is a GigiRita, which is just a Margarita with Grand Mariner that a I gave this silly eponymous names a few years ago after making them at home with friends, they are amazing and a staple at my house when hosting!GigiRita1 oz Grand Marnier2 oz Tequila1 oz Simple Syrup or Agave.5 oz Lime JuiceAdd salt if you want!In this episodeSmall Victories by Anne LamottOperating Instructions by Anne LamottSomehow by Anne Lamott

Hello Libration Nation! This week, we're diving into a beautifully heartwarming poetry collection, Dog Songs by the illustrious Mary Oliver. Joining me is the wonderful Amanda Sue Creasey, a high school English teacher and the Outdoors Writer for Cooperative Living Magazine. Her novel An Expected Endwas published in 2023. She holds an undergraduate degree in German, English, and Secondary Education from Michigan State University, and a graduate degree in Creative Writing from the University of Denver.Her work appears in three Chicken Soup for the Soul books, and her poetry, outdoor journalism, and nature photography have earned recognition from the Poetry Society of Virginia and Virginia Outdoor Writers Association.When she isn't writing, she enjoys hiking, walking, and standup paddle boarding with her dogs, as well as running and reading. A member of James River Writers, the Poetry Society of Virginia, and Virginia Outdoor Writers Association, she resides in Chester, Virginia, with her husband; Archie the parrot; and two rescue dogs, Nacho and Soda, chihuahua mix littermates who rule the house.Our beverage for this literary evening is a delightful choice—the refreshing Choice Organics peppermint tea. It's perfect for winding down in the evening and complements our discussion about the meditative nature of Mary Oliver's work. Though we tossed around several options, including coffee, peppermint tea won out as the ideal calming companion to poetry—offering warmth and comfort as we settled into our discussion.Mary Oliver's deep connection to nature is another theme we touch on. In "Dog Songs," Oliver beautifully links the nature of dogs to our human experience, inviting us to embrace the interconnectedness of all living things—a reflection that is both contemporary and timeless. For those who are grieving the loss of a dog or simply cherish the companionship of their canine friends, "Dog Songs" serves as a comforting reminder that such bonds are both profound and eternal.Choice Organic Peppermint TeaIn this EpisodeAn Unexpected End by Amanda Sue CreaseyExplore More Column by Amanda Sue Creasey for Cooperative Living MagazineInside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell, and Knowby Alexandra HorowitzEarthly Bodies by Vanessa ChakourNot MFA novel writing class by Matt CricchioThe Crucible by Arthur MillerSarah Good

Welcome back Libration Nation! This week, we're delving into a classic piece of Southern writing with The Prince of Tides by the remarkable Pat Conroy. My guest this week is the amazing, award winning author, Laura Elliott, who I had the pleasure of interviewing while we both were attending the Virginia Library Association Conference last month. Laura really helped us hit a home run with tying the drink in, because she owns a copy of Pat Conroy's cookbook, and shared with me the recipe for Pat Conroy's Iced Fruit tea!Laura shared with me the ways that Pat Conroy impacted her writing, particularly her historical fiction novel Louisa June and the Nazis in the Waveswhich is set in tidewater Virginia and also won the Virginia Library Association Cardinal Cup Award in 2023. Listening to Laura talk about the historical events that framed her story while looking out at the water of Norfolk, realizing how close we were to where those events occurred, is something I don't think I'll ever get overLaura, also known L. M. Elliott was an award-winning, Washington-based magazine journalist, primarily covering women's issues, before becoming a New York Times best-selling author of historical and biographical fiction. Her novels explore a variety of eras (the Italian Renaissance, American Revolution, Great Depression, WWII, and the Cold War), and are written for a variety of ages.These works have won the Scott O'Dell Award for Historical Fiction, VLA's Cardinal Cup, and the Grateful American Book Prize; and been named NCSS/CBC Notables (National Council of Social Studies/Children's Book Council), Bank Street College of Education Best Books, Kirkus Bests, Jr. Library Guild Gold Selections, and received many starred reviews. Elliott holds a BA from Wake Forest University and a master's in journalism from UNC-Chapel Hill. She is a lifelong Virginian and history-lover.Laura Elliott shares a touching recount of her personal encounter with Pat Conroy, capturing his gracious spirit and the profound impact he had on her craft. Their conversation, much like Conroy's novels, was rich with storytelling and an appreciation for the nuances of human experience. In discussing "The Prince of Tides," Laura elaborates on the intricate themes and Southern settings that Conroy brings to life. The novel's protagonist, Tom Wingo, narrates a saga interwoven with familial struggles, the haunting legacy of mental illness, and the eternal tug of the natural world against societal constraints. Conroy's narrative prowess shines through as he paints vivid, albeit sometimes tragic, tapestries of life in the South. Laura segues this conversation into reflections on her own works, particularly her upcoming book Truth, Lies, and Questions in Between, showcasing how her journalistic roots and Conroy's influence weave into her storytelling style.Our conversation was not just about storytelling but also about the power of narratives to heal and connect. Books, like the tea we shared, offer a therapeutic escape—a thread of connection through time. As we hold onto these stories, let's remember how they can offer clarity in our storms, much like the stars guiding characters in Laura's story.If you enjoyed this episode, share it with friends, leave us your thoughts, and subscribe for more enriching discussions. Until next time, keep your tea iced and your bookshelf stocked!Pat Conroy's Iced Fruit Tea (makes 3 quarts)4 tea bags1 lemon1 orange, sliced, plus more for garnish1/2 pint strawberries or raspberries, plus more for garnish1 cup cubed fresh pineapple, plus more for garnish1. Place the tea bags in a large heatproof pitcher. Using a vegetable peeler or small paring knife, remove the rind from the lemon, being careful not to include any of the bitter white pith. Cut into strips and reserve. Juice the lemon and reserve.2. In a kettle, bring 10 cups fresh, cold water to a rolling boil. Pour over tea bags and let steep for 10 to 15 minutes, depending on your preference. Remove the tea bags and discard. Add the lemon rind, lemon juice, and other fruits. Refrigerate overnight.3. Strain the fruit from the tea and discard. Pour the tea over ice cubes and garnish with a pineapple cube, an orange slice, or a strawberry.In this EpisodeLaura's WebsiteLouisa June and the Nazis in the Waves by LM ElliottTruth, Lies, and the Questions in Between by LM ElliottSouthern Festival of the BookBoozy BooksellersPat Conroy CookbookGreat Santini by Pat ConroyMy Episode with Lisa Varga, VLA director and Library Journal's 2024 Librarian of the Year

Hello, Libration Nation! This week, we're diving into the vibrant world of "Paper Girls," an imaginative comic series by Brian K. Vaughn with artwork by Cliff Chiang. This series, which intertwines coming-of-age narratives with sci-fi elements, is a thrilling ride that takes us through time travel and interwoven destinies.Joining me this week is comedian and bookseller Mary Jane French. Mary Jane has been performing Stand-up since she was 18-years-old. After starting her gender transition, she began cultivating material that captured her early experiences with transition and recorded it in a home-made special entitled Mary Jane French: Bearded Woman. Currently Mary Jane is producing comedy shows in Richmond, VA with Traverse Comedy. This week, we indulged in a delightful drink choice: a warm, soothing apple cider, which is perfect as we slip further in our fall season, it's a bit of a play on words, as Mary Jane explains, Apple products play a quirky role in the series. While ours was the classic non-alcoholic version, we can't forget to mention that apple ciders can be easily personalized with a splash of your favorite spirit, or simply enjoyed with a cinnamon stick for a spicy twist.As always, if you enjoyed our lively discussion and want to help us grow our community, please share, like, review, and subscribe wherever you tune into our episodes. We appreciate your support and look forward to bringing more exciting conversations your way!In this EpisodeGarden Grove Brewing in CarytownBottoms Up Pizza in Shockoe BottomChilling Adventures of Sabrina seriesSaga Series by Brian K VaughnSomething's Killing the Children seriesPapergirls TV ShowTraverse Comedy

It's Spooky Season Libration Nation! In this spine-tingling episode, I'm joined by Grace Todd, fellow Richmond podcast host of the "Didn't Read It" podcast, to delve into Shirley Jackson's chilling classic, The Haunting of Hill House. Over Dark Manhattans, we uncover the eerie atmosphere of Hill House, its unsettling characters, and ghostly legacies. Grace shares her deep connection to the novel, analyzing themes of female empowerment, queer undertones, and the metaphorical menace of family structures. We also touch on Jackson's other works and Grace's latest horror series on her podcast. Perfect for horror enthusiasts and fans of eerie literature, this episode offers a blend of humor and spooky insights. Cheers to a frightfully good time!Grace is an intermittent editor, book gremlin, and aspiring failed novelist. While her MFA in creative writing primarily served to exacerbate both her single-minded obsession with fiction and her dubious mental health, it did give her an excuse to lose herself in books when she should have been doing her day job, for which she is thankful. The book piles in her house are becoming more perilous and less structurally sound by the day.We recorded this episode in Grace's studio at the Black Iris Social Club, which was so cool, and features a bar where Brett, their charming barkeep, poured us Dark Manhattans, which are delicious with the spice of danger!Dark Manhattan Recipe2 oz Cynar1 oz rye whiskey1 oz Amaro (Brett made ours with Amaro y Arroyo from the Virginia distillery Copper Fox)Dash of orange bittersGarnish - Luxardo Dark CherriesServe on ice or stir and shake into a chilled glass - enjoy!In this EpisodeThe Haunting of Hill House TV ShowThe Haunting (1960s Jackson-sanctioned film version)We Have Always Lived in the Castle FilmBooks by Shirley JacksonThe Shirley Jackson AwardsThoughts on Shirley Jackson and QueernessShirley Jackson's NYT Obituary (not mentioned in the episode but very interesting nonetheless)Shirley (Elizabeth Moss film)Didn't Read It episode on Shirley Film

Hello Libration Nation! In this podcast episode, I'm excited to discuss The Rose Code by Kate Quinn with my cousin Christine O'Brien—a nurse, wife, fur-mom, and avid reader. We'll delve into the lives of female codebreakers at Bletchley Park during WWII, exploring their friendships, struggles, and key plot twists. Christine shares her insights on the serious tone of the novel and its historical significance, making it a great pick for book clubs. Join us for this enriching conversation paired with a delightful rosé from Christine's wine club, Armitage. Cheers!Drink PairingPinot Noir Rosé from Armitage WinesIn this EpisodeBletchley ParkOlsa BenningArmitage Wines -The Book of Lost Names by Kristin HarmelThe Women by Kristin HannahKate Quinn's Wikipedia Page

In this episode, we are discussing Ex-Wife by Ursula Parrott, a novel originally published in 1929 and a fascinating account of the experiences of women during the Jazz age. I'm joined by Juliana Soltis, an internationally acclaimed cellist, to discuss the book's continued relevance and its portrayal of female independence during the Jazz Age, akin to a 'Sex and the City' for that era. We also shed light on Parrott's obscured legacy in contrast to Fitzgerald's 'The Great Gatsby.' Moreover, Juliana speaks about her new album American Woman, which highlights lost works by female composers, underscoring the importance of preserving and celebrating women's contributions to art and culture. We wrap up with a tasty note, enjoying a non-alcoholic gin fizz themed to the novel, reflecting Prohibition-era cocktail cultureJuliana Soltis is an internationally-acclaimed cellist, specializing in telling the forgotten stories of classical music. Her latest release from PARMA Recordings, American Woman, explores the lost legacy of America's women composers and is now streaming across all platforms. When not on the road or in the recording studio, Juliana makes her home in Richmond's historic Church HIll neighborhood, where she caters to the every whim of her two greyhounds, Rain and Ceci.Gin Fizz Recipe2 ounces gin (We used Monday NA Gin)1 ounce lemon juice, freshly squeezed3/4 ounce simple syrup1 egg white (about 1/2 ounce)Club soda, to top (about 1 ounce)DirectionsAdd the gin, lemon juice, simple syrup and egg white to a shaker and vigorously dry-shake (without ice) for about 15 seconds.Add 3 or 4 ice cubes and shake vigorously until well-chilled.Double-strain into a chilled Collins glass and top with club soda.In this EpisodeJuliana Soltis' WebsiteAmerican Woman AlbumBecoming the Ex-Wife by Dr. Marsha Gordon (Ursula Parrott's Biography)The Great Gatsby by F. Scott FitzgeraldPresentation by Dr. Marsha Gordon on Ursula Parrott (we didn't discuss this in the episode but I found it absolutely fascinating!)Bright Lights Big City by Jay McInerney

This week we are discussing The Splendid and the Vile by Erik Larson, a thrilling account of Winston Churchill's first year as Prime Minister of the UK, and some of the darkest moments for England and Allied forces. My guest is Helen Gabay from Richmond, Virginia. She's the mom of an awesome 12-year-old boy, Charlie, and married to Tim, aka "Mr. Fix-it," a talented local contractor. Helen leads a skilled sales team at a major IT advisory company and enjoys working with some of the brightest minds in technology.Her passions include reading, travel, and history. She studied Political Science, English, and History at The George Washington University. Known for reading obsessively about her travel destinations, Helen often takes her family on walking tours during vacations. In 2020, she had planned a trip to England that fell through, but soon after, she became captivated by Erik Larson's masterful narrative non-fiction The Splendid and the Vile. Since then, she's visited London and many of Winston Churchill's historical sites.Our drink this week is a Gin Gimlet made with Plymouth Gin, which was Churchill's preferred gin! Helen served the drinks in classic coupe glasses, which was so fun, fancy, and authentic to the story!Gin Gimlet (with Plymouth Gin)2 oz. Plymouth Gin Navy Strength1 oz. lime juice1/2 oz. part simple syrupShake with ice and strain.**Helen's tip: When serving in coupe glasses, fill them with ice water and let them sit for a few minutes to serve cold!In this EpisodeGin Gimlet invented by Royal Navy to prevent scurvyBooks by Erik LarsonWalking with Destiny by Andrew Roberts (Churchill's biography)Washington Post criticism of The Splendid and the VileExpo: The Magic of the White City (Documentary on 1893 World's Fair)Sliding Doors FilmWWII FilmsDarkest Hour FilmPearl Harbor FilmDunkirk Film

Hello Libration Nation! Ready to go back ti the 90s? Today, we're talking about one of the defining books of a generation: Generation X by Douglas Coupland. I'm joined by David How—father, husband, music lover, and proud Canadian

I had an amazing chat with Katie Dolan about “The Midwife” by Jennifer Worth, the book that inspired the TV show “Call the Midwife”. We dived into all things birthing, motherhood, and the magic of community.Katie dove into her birthing and mothering experiences, the book's rich historical backdrop of East End, London, after WWII, and how media shapes our views on childbirth. We also celebrated the incredible importance of building and cherishing our communities.Katie is a long-time resident of Bon Air, Virginia, balancing life as a mother of (soon-to-be) six children and wife to one! A lover of all things literature, she's an avid reader across genres. Currently, Katie is taking a break from her work as a postpartum doula to prepare for the arrival of baby number six.Our drinks this week were from Perk! Coffee & Lunchbox our beloved Bon Air Coffee shop. Katie sipped on a Virginia Fog Tea, while I enjoyed an Iced Chai Latte, one of my favorite treats!In this EpisodeCall the Midwife TV showArticle by David Books “Communities of Character”

For the dog lovers of Libration Nation, have we got the episode for you! This week, we are discussing Abigail Thomas's memoir, A Three Dog Life which documents her experience living with her husband after his traumatic brain injury."The startling power and beauty of Abigail Thomas's memoir comes not only from her acute perceptions of a man without memories and her fear of losing her husband but from her refusal to surrender the shards of a loving relationship."-- O, the Oprah MagazineI'm joined this week by Joyce A. Miller, a writer living in the Church Hill section of Richmond, VA. She has written and indie-published two books: Joe Harris, the Moon, historical fiction based on the true story of Miller's granduncle who played baseball in the 1910s and 1920s, and Look! You're Dancing: A Memoir of Dogs, Dance and Devotion, which chronicles Miller's journey of adopting six greyhounds over the past twenty years and how she danced with several of them. Miller is also a member of James River Writers. Before she started writing, Miller worked for over thirty years as a mechanical designer at a nuclear physics laboratory.As Abigail Thomas loved her home city of Manhattan as well as the drink, we thought it was a perfect pairing with this book!Manhattan Recipe2 ounces rye whiskey1 ounce sweet vermouth2 dashes Angostura bittersGarnish: brandied cherry (or lemon twist, if preferred)In this EpisodeJoyce's Website (with links to books, newsletter)James River GreyhoundsGari Melcher Website (and Corinne!)James River WritersGreyhound Health Initiative

Calling all #librationnation leaders! This week we are discussing the groundbreaking book for managers, “First Break All the Rules” By Marcus Buckingham with Ira Holliday. Husband, father, avid golfer and business strategist are several of the key attributes used to describe Ira Holliday. With over 25 years of Fortune 200 experience in the areas of digital transformation, HR services and agile delivery, Ira has amassed quite the collection of business and leadership-focused authors within his library, including “First Break All The Rules, a New York Times bestseller.Our drink this week is a Smoked Old Fashioned, which Ira introduced to me, which is a traditional old fashioned but finished using a smoker kit, which gives it an additional layer, perfect for fall.Old Fashioned Recipe1 teaspoon sugar3 dashes Angostura bitters1 teaspoon water2 ounces bourbon (or rye whiskey, if preferred)Garnish: orange twistIn This EpisodeCocktail SmokersThe Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay StanierGen Z and Millennials visit the library more than older generations

What if I told you that your entire life boils down to just 4,000 weeks? Oliver Burkeman's Four Thousand Weeks will change the way you think about how you spend your time, and this is the exact topic of the amazing conversation I had with Rebecca Schinsky from BookRiot!Rebecca Schinsky is the Chief of Staff for Riot New Media Group, which runs Book Riot, the largest independent publication covering books and the publishing industry in North America. With over 15 years of experience working in the bookish internet, Rebecca is an expert in building communities and products that enrich readers' lives and promote literary culture. Outside of work, she's passionate about travel, cooking and baking, movies, meditation, and the power of a nice, long walk.I was so thrilled when Rebecca agreed to come on the podcast! I've been a longtime listener of the Book Riot Podcast, which she co-hosts with Jeff O'Neal. It's one of my favorite listens, and I've learned so much about the book and publishing universe from it. I actually first heard about Four Thousand Weeks from Rebecca talking about it on the Book Riot Podcast, so it was a full-circle moment to discuss it with her.Our drink this week is one of Rebecca's favorites: a Manhattan. It was the perfect drink to sip on while we explored all the amazing ideas in this book!Manhattan Recipe2 ounces rye whiskey1 ounce sweet vermouth2 dashes Angostura bittersGarnish: brandied cherry (or lemon twist, if preferred)In this episodeBookRiotBookRiot PodcastOliver Burkeman's WebsiteOliverBurkeman BooksEdelweiss and NetGalley (digital galleys for booksellers, librarians etc.)Booklist Magazine

Good Morrow Libration Nation! This week we are LIVING in Henry VIII's court, delving deeply into Hilary Mantel's historical novel, Wolf Hall Exploring the complex character of Thomas Cromwell, the historical context of Henry VIII's reign, and Mantel's meticulous attention to historical accuracy.My guest this week is Valerie Adachi. Valerie is a self-proclaimed bookworm who even enjoyed reading cereal boxes as a kid, she reminisces over the tactile joy of spreading the New York Times across her kitchen table.Recently completing a second master's degree out of sheer curiosity, she embodies a passion for continuous learning and personal growth. Her love for finding and trying new recipes has even inspired her son to become a skilled cook and baker. Adventure always seems to be around the corner for her, often appearing spontaneous but rooted in long-percolating ideas—like the decision to add a new puppy to her already bustling pack, turning her quiet life topsy-turvy.Beyond her love for dogs, she thrives on live music, good food and drink shared with family and friends, and the thrill of knowing that adventure is always nearby, maybe we a cozy reading spot.We paired the book with a Whiskey Neat, we drank Oak & Eden Toasted Oak Bourbon & Spire Whiskey - absolutely delicious and pair perfectly with the moodiness of the story.In this EpisodeNew York Time's List of the 100 best books of the 21st centuryVirago Spirits (Richmond gin distillery Valerie mentions)Beacon MercantileA Man for All Seasons

Welcome to another episode Libration Nation! Today, we're diving deep into the surreal and thought-provoking world of Victor Pelevin's "Generation P," also known as "Homo Zapiens" in English. Joining us is Pelevin aficionado Dr. Albert Arias, and we unravel the complex tapestry of post-Soviet Russia's chaotic transition to capitalism, examining the Western cultural invasion and the profound philosophical layers infused with Buddhism and spirituality that Pelevin navigates in his works We'll also chatter about the intriguing film adaptation, the psychedelic journeys depicted in the narrative, and the eerie foresight of fictional leaders born from deep fakes.Dr. Arias is a graduate of Michigan State University's College of Human Medicine (2001), and he completed his residency in psychiatry as well as a master's degree in clinical and translational research at the University of Connecticut Health Center. He was on the faculty at UCONN School of Medicine and then went on to be a faculty member at Yale University School of Medicine for 7 years in the department of psychiatry before joining VCU in 2018 as an associate professor and the Associate Division Chair for Addiction Psychiatry. He is the current President of the Psychiatric Society of Virginia.Dr. Arias' current research focuses on studying the effects of medications on mood disorders and addictions.We paired the book with Moscow Mules as a tie-in with the author's home country.Moscow Mule*.5 ounce lime juice2 ounces vodka4 fluid ounces ginger beer, or to tasteLime wedge for garnish*Not required, but generally served in a copper cupIn this episodeBooks by Victor PelevinVictor Pelevin, Russia's most mysterious modern writerFilm Adaptation

Welcome back, Libration Nation! Today, we're diving into the timeless world of Judy Blume's "Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret." Joining me is the my fellow librarian Jess Harshbarger, as we explore the impact of this iconic coming-of-age story. From touching on friendship, puberty, and identity, to discussing its still-relevant themes 50 years after publication, we've got it all covered. Pour yourself a “Blue GigiRita” and enjoy the conversation!

“The Limit Does Not Exist!”Calling all Mathletes! This week we are talking about the troubled life of mathematician Milo Andret, the protagonist and anti-hero of Ethan Canin's book "A Daughter's Almanac". This book is a favorite of my guest, Marty Mooradian.When Marty isn't selling apartment complexes with Colliers International, he's acting in plays and tv commercials, producing electronic dance music and living his best life as the most well known “Dining Room DJ” in Bon Air. Marty has a passion for music and great writing and if he ever gets more time on his hands he'll get back to making some of the best sour dough on the planet.Seven and Seven Drink2 ounces Seagram's 7 Crown Whiskey4 to 6 ounces 7-Up soda, to tasteLemon wedge, for garnishIn this EpisodeBooks by Ethan CaninKhan AcademyInterview with Ethan CaninWhat is a scorpion pepper?Libby App for LibrariesHoopla for LibrariesThe Rent Collector by Cameron Wright

This week we are reading a BOOK, and I mean that in the best possible way. The Book of Night Women by Booker Prize winner Marlon James is moving, heartbreaking, magical, and dark. It is also a favorite of this week's guest, Elizabeth Klaczynski. Elizabeth is a public historian and a curator currently living in Richmond, Virginia. She blames the American Girls series for her love of both history and reading. Elizabeth usually has her head buried in a book, but you can also find her anywhere there is water or playing with her very spoiled fur babies. This Week's DrinkEquiano Rum - the first African and Caribbean rum distilleryIn this EpisodeBooks by Marlon JamesThe Bitter SouthernerThe Known World by Edward P. JonesRosenwald Schools Exhibition at VA Museum of History and Culture

It's Christmas in July! This week we are visiting the world of Narnia, where it is always Winter but never Christmas, at least until the Pevensie children get involved. This week's guest is Erin Surber, Erin is an avid reader and an enthusiastic library patron. She has four children ages spanning 18 months to 9 years old. Erin has worked in the video production industry for 14 years and now hold the position of Head of Production for a Richmond-based production company. She loves being outside, hiking, running (slowly), and kayaking. Also very into cooking, traveling, and all things dark chocolate!Our cocktail is staying on the Christmas theme with a Narnia 75, which I found on the FoodNetwork UK's Christmas recipe page!Narnia 75 Cocktail25ml gin1 tsp white sugar10ml lime juice100ml ChampagneIn this EpisodeFriendship of CS Lewis and JRR TolkienWorthdays - Richmond area non-profit to support those impacted by the foster care system

Shall I compare thee to a summer's day? Because you are super hot!Yes, this is a very corny way to start this post, but this week's episode features the pod's first romance novel, and it was recorded on a very HOT summer day. This weekI am talking about Always Only You by Chloe Liese with Sara Mueller. Sara is a library assistant manager and has been working in libraries for 11 years. An avid reader since she could learn to put words together, Sara loves sharing her passion for books with anyone who will listen. She is a self-proclaimed hopeless romantic who enjoys romance novels - the steamier the better - as well as thrillers, mysteries, and literary works. Sara is a plant mom with an ever growing brood of plant babies and often spends her free time at her favorite garden-center finding new plants to adopt. She dreams of one day owning an alpaca farm and having a personal library with its own rolling shelf ladder. We paired the novel with Sangria, which you can really make so many ways, but here is my recipe for a pitcher to share with friends:Sangria1 bottle red wine1 cup orange juice1/4 cup brandy1 Apple, chopped1 Peach, choppedI recommend letting it blend in the fridge for a few hours before serving so the fruit soaks up the liquid.In this episodeStorygraphOwn Voices BooksChloe Liese' WebsiteBooks by Helen HoangBooks by Olivia DadeThe Flatshare by Beth O'LearyTowards the end of the episode Sara and I discuss books that use Autism in characters as a plot device. As neither Sara or I have Autism, I wanted to share thoughts on this subject from someone who does.

There is no getting around this: I was THRILLED when Lisa agreed to come on the podcast. Lisa is the Executive Director of the Virginia Library Association, immediate past chair of the Virginia Beach Public Library Board, and a member of the ALA Policy Corps focusing on Unite Against Book Bans. She also was named the LIBRARIAN OF THE YEAR 2024 by Library Journal, an award she won because of her advocacy in the fight against book bans. Lisa is a hero of mine, and I am also very grateful to call her my friend.Our book this week is Have a Beautiful, Terrible Day!: Daily Meditations for the Ups, Downs & In-Betweens by Kate Bowler. Lisa lives in Virginia Beach and we recorded at the beautiful OceanFront Marriott in Virginia Beach. I want to thank the staff of the Marriott for letting us record in their executive suite overlooking the ocean. Our drink this week is one Lisa recommends for a beach day, a Ruby Red Grapefruit Crush!Ruby Red Grapefruit Crush Ingredients4 oz (½ cup) grapefruit juice1 oz (2 tablespoons) vodka½ oz (1 tablespoon) triple sec (orange liqueur)2 oz (¼ cup) lemon-lime soda or club sodaIn This EpisodeUnite Against Book Bans - https://uniteagainstbookbans.org/Virginia Library Association - https://www.vla.org/Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow by Gabrielle ZevinVirginia Society of Association ExecutivesEverything Happens - Kate Bowler's podcastGigi's Episode on Anne Lamott's Bird by BirdRob Delaney's Episode of Everything HappensCatastrophe TV ShowTerrible, Thanks for Asking PodcastThe Hot Young Widows Club by Nora McInerny

Hello Libration Nation! This week I am discussing From the Dust Returned with Harry Szabo. Harry is a writer and union organizer. Their books, What Big Teeth and We All Fall Down, explore bad queer representation. They live with their three cats in Richmond, Virginia.From the Dust Returned has such an Addams Family vibe, so for our drink I went with the red wine The Fugitive by C.A. Dry Creek because the picture on the label reminded me of cousin Itt.In this episodeFriendship of Charles Addams and Ray BradburyHarry's WebsiteMoby Dick CommentaryUnited Campus Workers of Virginia

Hello Libration Nation - I'm back! So, after all these interviews talking with wonderful people about their favorite books, I felt it was time to share some of my own things, and who better to do that with than my husband Bill as our first guest host?! This week we are talking Bird by Bird by Anne Lamont, one of my favorite books, and a source of inspiration for doing this podcast as well. Our drink this week is a GigiRita, which is just a Margarita with Grand Mariner that a I gave this silly eponymous names a few years ago after making them at home with friends, they are amazing and a staple at my house when hosting! GigiRita1 oz Grand Marnier2 oz Tequila1 oz Simple Syrup or Agave.5 oz Lime JuiceAdd salt if you want!In this episodeSmall Victories by Anne LamottOperating Instructions by Anne LamottSomehow by Anne Lamott

Hello Libration Nation! So this week I am announcing that I am taking a tiny two week break from the podcast BECAUSE I am working with my friends at EveryLibrary to host some author interviews over the next two weeks. EveryLibrary is the only political action committee for libraries, and I'm thrilled to be partnering with them and doing my favorite thing, promoting storytelling and libraries!Here is the interview schedule: June 13, 2024 at 2pm Mary Jane Wells, authorJune 13, 20247 pm Alexis Landau, author, with Cassandra Campbell narratorJune 18 7 pm Alison Larkin, authorJune 20 7 pm Jason June, author More info and links to tune in can be found on EveryLibrary's WebsiteThe regularly scheduled podcast will be back in 2 weeks on Tuesday June 25. I'm really excited for the interviews I've already recorded and can't wait to get them out to you then. Included here is my very first episode that I did with my husband, Bill, on the book Hyperion. So if you haven't gotten around to that episode, here it is. As I've said before since this was my very first recording the audio isn't the best, however the jokes are solid gold. Enjoy!

We are going under the sea, 20,000 leagues worth to be precise! It was sincerely so wonderful to talk with Keely Blue about this novel that she loves dearly and learn all the ways it has impacted her. Keely is a library worker by day and singer by night. She fronts the alternative indie band The Tea Lights. In her spare time, she loves walking, collecting records, and escaping into fictional worlds.For our drink Keely picked a Dark 'n Stormy, a classic ginger beer based cocktail that pairs perfectly with some of the darker scenes in this classic novel by Jules Verne!Dark 'n Stormy Cocktail1 part Dark Rum3 parts Ginger BeerSplash of lime juiceIn this EpisodeThe Tea LightsVoyage of the Nautilus ProjectExplanation of the (mis)translations of 20,000 Leagues Under the SeaJules Verne's editor and the homeland of Captain NemoIsaac AsimovUrsula LeGuinHitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas AdamsProject GutenbergHow Public Domain Works

I'm so thrilled this week to be talking with Dr. Nan Carmack about a book that profoundly impacted her, Ahab's Wife, or the Star-gazer by Sena Jeter Naslund. This book is a brilliant recapturing of the life of Ahab's wife from Moby Dick and is the author, Nasland's demonstration of a beautiful female journey in juxtaposition of Melville's inherently male story. The life of our protagonist, Una, is largely set in Nantucket, so we enjoyed Nantucket cocktails while discussing all the interesting aspects of this adventure novel.Nan Carmack is the Director of Library Development and Networking at the Library of Virginia. She works with all of the public libraries in the commonwealth. She is also an adjunct professor at Old Dominion University's Masters in Library and Information Science. After a first career as a mental health therapist and then a short stint as an independent bookstore owner, Nan finds that public libraries are the perfect intersection of social justice and intellectual curiosity. She is an amateur artist and enjoys getting her hands dirty in the garden. She has become one of those embarrassing people whose dogs are her children, now that her family has flown the coop. She and her husband live in Richmond, VA. Naps are a priority in her life.Nantucket Cocktail1.5 oz. White Rum2.5 oz. Cranberry JuiceSplash Grapefruit JuiceLime for garnish (optional)In this episode:The Red Tent by Anita DiamantPort William Series (Jayber Crow) by Wendell BerryRon Rash BooksSilas House BooksGangsters of Capitalism by Jonathan M. KatzAbundance: A Novel of Marie Antoinette by Sena Jeter NaslundVirginia Literary AwardsSherlock in Love by Sena Jeter NaslundThis Tender Land by William Kent KrugerIn Distrust of Movements by Wendell Berry

This week I am discussing The Friday Night Club: A Novel of Artist Hilma af Klint and Her Creative Circle by Sofia Lindberg, Alyson Richman and MJ Rose. I was so pleased that my friend and museum educator Izzie Call came on the pod and shared her passion and inspiration in learning about “The Mother of Abstract Art” Hilma af Klint. Izzie is a passionate educator who loves art and reading, and listening to her bring these two loves together is a true gift. Enjoy!In this Episode:Linda Nochlin's Why Have There Been No Great Women Artists?Girl with the Pearl Earring by Tracy ChevalierThe Goldfinch by Donna TarttHilmas work The Swan, No. 12, Group IX/SUW from 1915 that was featured in Upgraded: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hilma_af_Klint#/media/File%3AHilma_af_Klint_-_1915_-_The_Swan_-_No_16.jpgGuggenheim website that shows the 2019 exhibition of Hilma's work that inspired the book: https://www.guggenheim.org/exhibition/hilma-af-klintTo compare Hilmas work to the “Father of Abstract Art”: take a look at some of Wasily Kandinskys work and compare to Hilmas. https://artsandculture.google.com/entity/wassily-kandinsky/m0856z?hl=enSwedish 75 Cocktail3 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice6 Tablespoons gin2 Tablespoons lingonberry jamIce cubes for shakingdry sparkling wine, chilled

Libration Nation is going International! This week we are discussing the German book Marzahn, Mon Amour by Katja Oskamp, which was the winner of the Dublin Literary Award 2023. Also, this Mother's Day Week, my guest is none other than the Queen of Libration Nation herself, my mother Patricia Smith! Marzahn, Mon Amour is about the experiences of a woman who becomes a pedicurist in Marzahn, Berlin and chronicles the stories of her clients, mostly seniors who came of age in East Berlin before the Wall came down. These stories are told with compassion and curiosity, documenting the beauty and truth of a people who have experienced both tragedy and triumph.Our drink this week is an Aperol Spritz, which is featured in the book and is perfect beverage to enjoy all summer long!Aperol Spritz RecipeIce3 ounces Aperol3 ounces dry Prosecco1 ounce club sodaOrange slice, for garnishIn this episodeHoopla for LibrariesMarzahn, BerlinDublin Literary AwardThe Clown by Heinrich Boll

Hello Libration Nation! This week I am talking with writer, library worker and avid reader Heather Knapp about a book that had a big impact on her as a child and kicked-off her love of reading: The Last Book in the Universe by Rodman Philbrick. One of the characters in this story LOVES Chocolate, so Heather and I paired it with a Chocolate Martini Mocktail!Chocolate Martini Mocktail3/4 cups milk of your choice1 tbsp. sweetened condensed milk3 tbsp chocolate syrupWhipped Cream (optional)1 teaspoon flaked chocolate for garnish (optional)In this episodeBrave New WorldFamous People with EpilepsyReady Player OnePercy Jackson SeriesBluey TV ShowA Clockwork Orange

But I gotta know what's your Romanta-ta-cy? If you are Hannah “H Bomb” Hauck the answer to this is Fourth Wing and everything else that is coming next from Rebecca Yarros. This is a fun romp with my BFF as we discuss Fourth Wing and everything around the creation of this story, deep diving into both the smut and the publishing industry. Seriously, where else are you going to find this kind of content?! Hannah also made her own cocktail for this episode, “The Wingleader”, a light twist on a Margarita!The Wingleader1.5 oz Tequila1 oz Triple Sec.5 oz Lime Juice2 oz Orange Juice1 oz Club Soda.5 oz AgaveIn this episodeIron Flame by Rebecca YarrosElhors Danlos syndromeRed Tower BooksRebecca Yarros Romance NovelsRanganthan's Five Laws of Library ScienceBook Riot Podcast - First EditionRebecca Yarros Non-Profit One October