Lovely Books

In this episode, Emmy B interviews author Diana Abu-Jaber on her personal story and character connection with her most recent novel, "Fencing With The King".Diana expresses her hope to see more middle eastern, own voices stories in contemporary fiction to encourage more connection, more understanding, and more appreciation for the global community we are currently navigating. 

In this episode with bookstagrammer Courtney Sharpe, we discuss Kristin Hannah's bestselling novel "Firefly Lane." Released in 2008, a Netflix series 2021, this novel has touched the hearts of women for the past decade. 

In this episode of Lovely Book, Emmy shares her top five, unhighlighted book read in 2021, and five anticipated reads that you won't want to miss in 2022!TOP 5 2021HAMNET by Maggie O'FarrellPROJECT HAIL MARY by Andy WeirTHE GOOD SISTER by Sally HepworthTHE GIRL WITH THE LOUDING VOICE by Abi DareCLOUD CUCKOO LAND by Anthony Doerr5 ANTICIPATED READSI MUST BETRAY YOU by Ruta Sepetys (FEB 2022)THE UNKNOWN BELOVED by Amy Harmon ( APR 2022)FRENCH BRAID by Anne Tyler (MAR 2022)THE CANDY HOUSE by Jennifer Egan (APR 2022)THE DAUGHTER OF DOCTOR MOREAU by Silvia Moreno-Garcia (MAY 2022)

In this episode; freelance journalist, essayist, and novelist Margarita Goken Silver discusses her memoir, "I Named My Dog Pushkin". Her immigrant stories, told in essays, tells of the little known history of the 2nd Jewish Migration from the Soviet Union shortly before the fall of the Iron Curtain. Margarita tells a unique and often hilarious tale of coming of age and reinventing yourself in a new culture.

In this episode, Emmy B and Megan Ribelin discuss the YA fantasy, adventure, romance book- "Fable" by Adrienne Young. This is book beating with adventure as our young female heroine captures our heart and shows us what it means to be gritty.This is a great discussion of a fun book that will sweep you away. And a fantasy book with as much to teach as it has to tell!Megan also recommends:"Red Rising" by Pierce Brown"The Four Winds" by Kristin Hannah"A Gentleman In Moscow"  by Amor Towles

In this episode, Emmy B and Whitney Flygare talk all the psychology in one of our favorite psychological thrillers, "The Silent Patient" by Alex Michaelides. As a debut novel, this one has kept  us talking even two years after reading it for the first time.  A teacher of psychology, Whitney shares some great insights into what make this book so unforgettable.

In this episode, Emmy B and Kristen Smith discuss two newer middle grade novels by author, mother, and educator Katie Proctor. All three of us are passionate about the impact a meaningful middle grade book can have on young readers, as they navigate a diverse world and try to grow into great humans. Both of these books offer powerful characters and create an opportunity for increased empathy and understanding of the many life circumstances and stories we will encounter in our lifetimes. They help us remember to "just be kind."Connect with Kristen Smith:IG: @kristens.reading.nook

In this episode, Emmy B and the fabulous Amy Harmon, discuss fantasy and dual timelines between separate novels. It's a deep dive with insights and laughter. Hope you'll join us!

In this episode, New York Times Bestselling author, Alka Joshi, shares insights on "The Henna Artist" and "The Secret Keeper of Jaipur."With thoughtfulness and an open dialog, Alka walks listeners through the development of her beloved characters in the first two books of the Jaipur Trilogy. She shares how the stories develop in her mind before they come to life on paper, and offers lessons to both the western and eastern listener.Connect Online:Website: https://alkajoshi.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thealkajoshi/

In this episode, prolific book reviewer/bookstagrammer- Nel (@mamasgottaread) takes listeners beyond the book to the life lessons wrought about in VE Schwab's 2020 release: "The Invisible Life of Addie La Rue."In a moment of fervor, emotion intensified, can we truly articulate our honest desires. Or in those moments are we weakened? Can we easily succumb to the manipulation of our word by others? VE Schwab's Addie La Rue takes readers on a journey through the infinite and the finite, through history and memory, a beautiful tragedy readers won't soon forget.Connect with Nel:IG: @mamasgottaread Website: https://mamasgottaread.blogspot.com/

In this episode, host Emmy B shares one of her favorite reads published in 2021. "The Four Winds" by Kristin Hannah is a work of historical fiction at its finest. Guest Paul Norat, helps Emmy take you through the history behind the historical fiction and shares insights into the "Dirty Thirties" and what we can learn about poverty, immigration, and emergency preparedness, from the experiences of women during the Great Depression era. Protagonist Elsa Martinelli's has a lot to share with readers regarding grit, hope, and courage in desperate times.  Her story along with the many untold stories of women in the 1930s, are ones we can all learn from today!

In this episode, you'll get a meaningful discussion on how passion, perseverance, and the ability to "lean in" to vital moments, can make all the difference in our lives. Mom-entrepreneur Kim Petersen takes us through "Grit" by Angela Duckworth & "Lean In" by Sheryl Sandberg to discuss how the principles taught in these books apply to all ages and stages of our lives. College students, single adults, stay at home moms, working parents, can all benefit from the fundamental lessons addressed in these two foundational, nonfiction books and live happier more fulfilling lives!

In this episode of Lovely Books, Emmy gives her TOP 5 Book Recommendations for summer 2021. This list has something for everyone as we suggest books genres from romance to non-fiction science and addiction. Listen in to see which summer read is best for you!1. "People We Meet On Vacation" by Emily Henry2. "The Good Sister" by Sally Hepworth3. "City of Brass" by SA Chakraborty (The Daevabad Trilogy)4. "Floating In The Most Peculiar Way" by Louis Chude-Sokei5. "Dopamine Nation" by Anna LembkeFollow us on:IG: @lovelybooks_podcastFacebook: @lovelybookspodcastTwitter: @lovelybookspodcastInquiries:lovelybookspodcast@gmail.com

Season 1 Wrap-UpEM Forester said,  "Only Connect." It was a call to put our greatest energy into our personal relationships. What does that have to do with books? It is the connections that keep us reading- connections that we have, that we want, that we imagine. Connection is what brings books to life, and in this episode we'll explore that.

In this episode, Croatian bookstagrammer Ivana Bres Murk bring us "This Is How It Always Is" by Laurie Frankel. This book is a beautiful exploration in raising of a gender nonconforming child. It is sweet, poignant, charming, and at times heartbreaking. It is without question, a book that should be read and discussed globally. Our discussion in this episode centers on opening our minds to people and experiences that are different from our own. Acceptance, kindness, and willingness to discuss taboo topics make us better humans.Follow Ivana on IG: @books.with. tutus_and_sons

In this episode, founder of Brain by Design, James Garrett takes us deep into “Atomic Habits” by James Clear. Our habits shape every aspect of our lives, even our identity. So, we’ll talk about the good ones, bad ones, and tiny ones- and how to successfully make change!Connect with James Garrett and Brain By Design:https://www.brainbydesign.com/https://www.facebook.com/brainbydesignhttps://www.instagram.com/brainbydesign/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCv1eprn15gZFg-8z39JCQkQhttps://twitter.com/_BrainByDesign

In this episode, New York Times Bestselling author Amy Harmon, sits down with Emmy B to discuss her most recent release, "The Songbook of Benny Lament."Set in the 1960s, east coast music scene- the story of Benny Lament and Ester Mine will give readers a look at the history of the 60s music and racial madness that they'll hold on to for a long time. Music, mobsters, boxing, segregation, and invisible lines only add to the depth of this story of family love, family protection, and family by love and choice.Connect with author Amy Harmon:website: https://www.authoramyharmon.com/Instagram: @amy.harmon2

In this episode, Spanish Literature PhD candidate, Zach Glassett bring us "Don Quixote" by Cervantes. An epic tale of chivalry, a comedy of errors, and a tragedy- we can best compare this book to a combination of Homer's "Odyssey" and the 1975 film "Monty Python and the Holy Grail." Zach brings great insights as an own voices reader, to make this classic still relevant today.There are so many reasons that this work is considered the first, great novel of western literature. Published in 1605, it's numerous translations come in second only to the Bible.With so many great things to talk about, you'll just have to listen in! And don't miss the great scifi/fantasy book recommendations at the end.

In this episode, Emmy B and Whitney Flygare discuss "Maybe You Should Talk To Someone" by Lori Gottlieb. As this book gives readers great insights into the process and helpfulness of therapy, when a psychoanalyst talks about her experience with seeing a psychoanalyst- then we discuss it with a school psychologist- it's going to be a good time and a fun conversation!

In this episode, Emmy B and bookstagrammer Heather Clark, @bookswithclarkie , discuss a favorite read by Fredrik Backman "Beartown".This is a book about a hockey team, a culture and community, friendship, family, and an incident that threatens to tear it all down. The writing and character nuances are brilliant. The themes painful and beautiful. There's so much for the reader here, and we talk about it all. We also hope to share unique aspects of the book that will give you more to think about and more to love!

In this episode, Emmy B interviews author, blogger, and animal rescue advocate Cara Sue Achterberg on her newest novel "Blind Turn." Cara draws on her own experiences and grows along with her readers' on life's journey of growth, forgiveness, and redemption. The story is sober and chilling - we know it's fiction, yet the story of a teen charged with vehicular homicide is something far too real. Don't worry- we kept all the spoilers out. Brief Summary: After a texting a driving accident threatens to ruin a life and disrupt a community, lessons of friendship and forgiveness mix with fear and guilt, as a sixteen year old girl grows up in a single terrible instant.Connect with Cara Sue Achterberg:website: http://www.carawrites.com/instagram: @carasueachterberg

In this episode, Emmy B and Tara Bleazard discuss why these 5 BOOKS w/ African American Authors, have our hearts! Wrapping up Black History Month, here are some great books to diversify your current book list. "If You Come Softly" by Jaqueline Woodson (Teen Romance)"Punching The Air" By Ibi Zoboi & Yusef Salaam (Fiction)"Grown" by Tiffanie D Jackson (Adult Fiction)"Between The World & Me" by Ta-Nehisi Coates (Memoir)"Ghost" by Jason Reynolds (Middle Grade)

In this episode, Maryanne Snell brings us a unique perspective on Taylor Jenkins Reid's novel "Daisy Jones and the Six". Although we both loved this book, our initial thoughts and takeaway themes were very different. Listen in to hear thoughts on the relationships explored in this work of fiction, and how mental states alter defining "soulmates". And of course, our interpretation of what it means to be a ROCK STAR!Maryanne is also the author of the Betsy Malone Mystery Series available on Amazon.

In this episode, Emmy B talks with Christina Hammonds Reed about her recently released debut novel, "The Black Kids." Discussing specifically the topic of Own Voices, Emmy asks Christina what it means to her to create a space for readers like her- as well as what the intended insights are for readers like me. This is a discussion on race, economic status, perception and willingness to create empathy for an experience that is not your own. It's the perfect conversation to prove; that we can talk about difficult things, in a lovely way, through the books that we read!

In this episode, Pakistani American Kirin Nabi discusses the middle grade, own voices book: “A Place At The Table” by Saadia Faruqi & Laura Shovan. A real and honest discussion about prejudice, hate rhetoric, and code switching, Kirin openly discusses it all. Her invitation to reach across barriers to create unity, is genuine and full of hope. For all of us who want to do better- her voice is one to listen to. Kirin sums it up with this: “You don’t have to be best friends, but you can Be Kind.”You can follow Kirin on:Instagram: @islamicschoollibrarianwww.islamicschool librarian.wordpress.comAnd more diverse books:diversebookfinder.org

In this episode, 2018 Audie Award Winner, and narrator of over 150 books, Nancy Peterson discusses the ins and outs of narrating our favorite books. A 25-year veteran of stage, screen, and recording studio, Nancy has a penchant for dialects; diving deep into the study of language. Her narration style, summed up by AudioFile Magazine, "creates the sense of listening to a play instead of a straightforward reading."

In this episode, Emmy B & bookstagrammer Cayla Turner discuss one of her favorite 2020 reads: "The Black Kids" by Christina Hammonds Reed. With a background in Africana Studies, and a passion for 'knowing your history', Cayla shares her thoughts and insights on this must read YA, NY Times bestseller! Set in California in the 90s, the timeline of this book follows the Rodney King beating and subsequent rioting in LA. It's a poignant look at how social and cultural tensions shape our coming of age stories.Find Cayla on Instagram @bookitqueen"The Black Kids" was published by Simon and Schuster in 2020She also recommends reading: "The Address Book" by Deirdre Mask

In this episode, Tiffanie DeBartolo discusses her lovely book : "Sorrow." Published in September 2020 by Woodhall Press.Set in the midst of the stunning redwood trees, Joe Harper has a history of hiding from his difficulties and abandoning his dreams. Will he have to loose it all to find the courage to follow his heart? Told from a uniquely masculine perspective, listen in as Tiffanie discusses the nuances of these unforgettable characters and how this story came to be.Connect with Tiffanie DeBartolo online:Instagram: @tiffaniedebartoloWebsite: https://www.tiffaniedebartolo.com/Bright Antenna Records: https://www.brightantenna.com/

In today's episode, touching on culture, politics, success, personal development, motivation, and living a life of service- Cornelius Maxwell shares his recently released book of poetry entitled "Unapologetically: I Am A Man." Cornelius is a motivational speaker, a veteran advocate, and business consultant. His advocacy began after serving 8 years and 3 combat tours during Operation Iraqi Freedom in the United States Army. Living by his own words: "Leaders seek the opportunity to serve others and lack the expectation for others to serve them" - he is truly an inspiration to those fighting for justice and equality in a backwards world.

Author Interview with Amra Sabic-El-Rayess on her YA MEMOIR “The Cat I Never Named.” Short listed for YA Non-Fiction YASLA Award for Best Non-Fiction Book for 2021. Amra never thought she’d live in a city under siege for four years. She never thought she’d be targeted, as a 16 year old Bosnian Muslim for genocide. But she was. And this is her story. Heartbreaking, full of beauty and love.

In this episode, EmmyB discusses "The First Wife" by Paulina Chiziane with Kerri Smith. Written by the first ever female author from Mozambique, Kerri discusses the profound affect this book on her, and how it has stayed with her. Unlike previous episodes, this two part episode dives into one book and perspectives from two continents. Is it possible for a book written by a woman in Mozambique, to effectively share an intended message to a woman in Salt Lake City, UT USA.Often, if we take the time to dig deeper with people who appear to be very different, we will find that we're not as different as we think.

In this episode, EmmyB discusses "The First Wife" by Paulina Chiziane with Kenyan Bookstagrammer: Frankie Omogo. Unlike previous episodes, this two part episode dives into one book and perspectives from two continents. Is it possible for a book written by a woman in Mozambique, to effectively share an intended message to a woman in Salt Lake City, UT USA.Often, if we take the time to dig deeper with people who appear to be very different, we will find that we're not as different as we think.

In this episode, Emmy B and her husband Paul discuss Henry David Thoreau's collection of essays entitled, "Walden." Emmy shares her favorite excerpts and why they are still as relevant today as they were in 1854. Heading into the holiday season, and trying to navigate a pandemic, life can get hectic and we can drown in unimportant distractions. Thoreau's essays remind readers to "simplify" and "live deep" while also fronting "only the essential facts of life." It is timeless advice that we need now more than ever!

In this episode, Emmy B and Melissa Miller discuss the lovely book, "The Hate U Give" by Angie Thomas. In this political climate there are so many hard thing and difficult conversations- but these things can be done in a lovely way with respect and understanding. Listen in as Melissa shares about her reaction to this novel as a white mother to an adopted black son.

In this episode, EmmyB and Katy Mitarai discuss a few fabulous cookbooks- but of a unique variety. Katy suggests that, because women and men spend so much time cooking meals (probably the requisite 10K hours) we might as well have the knowledge to become an expert. And it may not be as hard as we think. Using basic information from "Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat" combined with basic common ingredients, and mixed with all the cozy memories that come with a home-made meal (as described in the book"Kitchen Yarns" by Ann Hood) you can cook up a lifetime of meaningful memories and warm experiences with family and friends.

In this episode, EmmyB and Caroline McBride discuss her debut romantic comedy, "Four Seasons At Angelino's".In a wild and witty trip across continents, Charlotte gives herself four seasons to find true love. With exotic locations, toxic relationships, great food, and too many martinis- this book has laughs, adventure, disappointments we come to expect in a great romcom... but there are plenty of surprises and lessons to learn along the way!Author Caroline McBride tells a great story and gives a lovely interview with a deeper look into this fun escape of a read!

In this episode, Emmy B and Analia discuss favorite witches that appear in fiction as early back as 1604. Can you guess which story we are referring to? Witches both scary (the Wicked Witch of the West) and brave (Hermione Granger) are a magical piece of childhood that Halloween festivities bring out! Let's see how many of these 10 Witches have been a part of your literary history.

In this episode, EmmyB discusses the epic, lovely read "Watership Down" by Richard Adams. EmmyB and Jenny discuss what makes the book such a memorable read. It has all the makings of an epic story: a journey far from home, loyalty, friendship, peril, and an enemy to conquer to find a peaceful way of life. Just remember to look past the fact that you're reading a book about rabbits!

Showing some love to the kids in our lives with these fine kids approved recommendations:"The Adventures of Spiderman" by Michael Teitelbaum"Bad Seed" by Jory John"The Last of the Really Great Wangdoodles" by Julie Andrews"My First Big Book of Animals" by Cathrine D Hughes"Nibbles" by Emma Yarlett"Owl Diaries" by Rebecca Elliot"Bad Guys" by Aaron Blabey"The Babysitters Club" by Reina Talgemeier"Amelia Rules!" by Jimmy Gownley"The Hobbit" by J R R Tolkien"Enders Game" by Orson Scott Card"Track Series" by Jason Reynolds"Percy Jackson" by Rick Riordan"Charlotte's Web" by E B White"A Long Walk to Water" by Linda Sue Park"GUTS" by Reina Talgemeier"There's a Boy In The Girls' Bathroom" bu Louis Sachar"Mother Daughter Book Club" by Heather Vogel Frederick"Wings of Fire" by Tui T Sutherland

In this episode, EmmyB talks with her husband about a book that made her audibly cry for the first time. Fredrik Backman's novel "Anxious People" is a hilarious, comfort read that speaks to those of us who are adulting (or at least trying to). This book spoke to me in many ways. Listen in to hear why.

In this episode, EmmyB and Katie Clegg wrap up Lovely Books first Buddy Read: "The Fountains of Silence" by Ruta Sepetys. Sepetys in know as the SEEKER OF LOST STORIES, and that certainly proved to be true as we explored the Spanish Revolution and what the experience of living under that regime would have been like. You will not want to miss out on this lovely read!*GIVEAWAY Winner Announced!!!

In this episode, millennial, university student, and newly married Nicole Banez talks about Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) through the book, "Hold Me Tight" by Sue Johnson. Nicole stumbled across her book and research after joining a group to help with stress and anxiety at school. The methods and clinical research, have helped to shape all Nicole's relationships by improving her bonds, and feelings of trust, with all her friends and family. Please listen in to here more about why Nicole recommends this non-fiction, personal development book to EVERYONE!

In this episode, EmmyB interviews friend and authorTiffany Rosenhan, who recently released her debut novel, "Girl From Nowhere". Published in July 2020 by Bloomsbury Teen, EmmyB and Tiffany take this opportunity to dive in to the "YA Spy Thriller" genre containing a female protagonist. These books exist, but are typically penned by men. Does that make a difference? Listen in to hear Tiffany's thoughts on strong female characters, feminism, publishing, and how she created such a cinematic, engaging read.

John Pontacolone, Director of Finance for the City of New York, had just stepped out of the subway in time to see the North Towers hit by a screaming commercial airplane on September 11, 2001. It would take him nearly 10 hours to make it home to his wife Lillian and son. And it's a day they'll never forget. Please listen in as he recounts his 9/11 experience and what New Yorkers proved to the world in the days that followed. Also mentioned: "102 Minutes" by Jim Dwyer & Kevin Flynn

In this episode, EmmyB and Jill Taylor try to emotionally resolve the novel "A Little Life" by Hanya Yanagihara. This is an emotionally wrenching story filled with hope, love, friendship, and family, fighting unspeakable: physical and emotional abuse, sexual abuse, addiction, self harm, and social norms. It's fully loaded and will keep you thinking for a long time after. The protagonist Jude's story is powerful and poignant. Unforgettable.

In today's episode EmmyB interviews three guests on how they like to enjoy their books? We'll read answers and discuss suggestions posted to our social media on Facebook and Instagram! Thank you to all our contributing listeners!

In this episode, EmmyB and returning pod-guest Whitney Flygare take on tragedy and survivorship in the historical fiction novel "The Great Believers" by Rebecca Makkai. AIDS in the 1980s gay community is not an easy topic to discuss, but with great compassion and style, Makkai gives us something we cannot stop talking about! Whitney also mentions "American Dirt" by Jeanine Cummins her book recommendation that has a voice of power that needs to be heard.