Podcasts about happyland

Host Lauren chats with poet, Special Projects Manager at Providence Art, Culture & Tourism, and Reading Across Rhode Island Honorary Chair, Charlotte Abotsi about this year's RARI pick, Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez. They also discuss poetry, Providence's artsy vibe, and the impact of their high school English teachers. In the Last Chapter they answer the question: What is a poem or a line from a poem that has always stuck with you?   Overdueing It is a project funded by the Rhode Island Office of Library and Information Services and is produced by library staff around the state. We are proud to be a resident partner of the Rhode Island Center for the Book. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speakers' own and do not represent those of the Overdueing It podcast, its sponsor organizations, or any participants' place of employment. The content of Overdueing It episodes are the property of the individual creators, with permission for Overdueing it to share the content on their podcast feed in perpetuity. Any of the content from the Overdueing podcast cannot be reproduced without express written permission.   Our logo was designed by Sarah Bouvier and our theme music is by Neura-Flow.   Books Let the Poets Govern: A Declaration of Freedom by Camonghne Felix Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez The Princess of Las Vegas by Chris Bohjalian Sex Camel by Muggs Fogarty   Media Beef (TV Series, 2023 - ) Harvey (1950) The Testament of Ann Lee (2025)   Poems "Why Some People Be Mad at Me Sometimes" by Lucille Clifton "We Real Cool" by Gwendolyn Brooks "Our Land" by Langston Hughes "Pretext" by Muggs Fogarty "The Lake Isle of Innisfree" by W.B. Yeats

Host Lauren chats with poet, Special Projects Manager at Providence Art, Culture & Tourism, and Reading Across Rhode Island Honorary Chair, Charlotte Abotsi about this year's RARI pick, Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez. They also discuss poetry, Providence's artsy vibe, and the impact of their high school English teachers. In the Last Chapter they answer the question: What is a poem or a line from a poem that has always stuck with you?   Overdueing It is a project funded by the Rhode Island Office of Library and Information Services and is produced by library staff around the state. We are proud to be a resident partner of the Rhode Island Center for the Book. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speakers' own and do not represent those of the Overdueing It podcast, its sponsor organizations, or any participants' place of employment. The content of Overdueing It episodes are the property of the individual creators, with permission for Overdueing it to share the content on their podcast feed in perpetuity. Any of the content from the Overdueing podcast cannot be reproduced without express written permission.   Our logo was designed by Sarah Bouvier and our theme music is by Neura-Flow.   Books Let the Poets Govern: A Declaration of Freedom by Camonghne Felix Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez The Princess of Las Vegas by Chris Bohjalian Sex Camel by Muggs Fogarty   Media Beef (TV Series, 2023 - ) Harvey (1950) The Testament of Ann Lee (2025)   Poems "Why Some People Be Mad at Me Sometimes" by Lucille Clifton "We Real Cool" by Gwendolyn Brooks "Our Land" by Langston Hughes "Pretext" by Muggs Fogarty "The Lake Isle of Innisfree" by W.B. Yeats

Looking for your next great historical fiction read? Joe is joined by Amy Allen Clark, host of the Book Gang Podcast, to share standout historical fiction recommendations to add to your TBR.  From immersive, character-driven stories to sweeping narratives that bring the past to life, this episode highlights books that will stick with you long after the final page. Amy brings her expertise in discovering buzzy and noteworthy titles, while Joe adds a few picks of his own—including one unexpected curveball.  Whether you're a longtime historical fiction reader or just looking for a place to start, this episode is packed with compelling recommendations across time periods and styles.  Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!  Book recommendations: Amy's Picks:  The Half Life - Rachel Beanland  Scandalous Women - Gill Paul  The Final Revival of Opal and Nev - Dawnie Walton  The Foursome - Christina Baker Kline  Happy Land - Dolen Perkins-Valdez  Joe's Picks:  Let's Call Her Barbie – Renée Rosen  Disco Witches of Fire Island – Blair Fell  The Hounding – Xenobe Purvis  Dead Eleven – Jimmy Juliano  Silver Nitrate – Silvia Moreno-Garcia  Flung out of Space – Grace Ellis & Hannah Templer  Stage Dreams – Melanie Gillman  The Legend of Auntie Po – Shing Yin Khor  Parallel – Matthias Lehmann    Who's in this episode:   Amy Allen Clark, Book Gang Podcast – links  Articles referenced:   https://bookriot.com/what-makes-a-book-historical-fiction/   https://celadonbooks.com/what-is-historical-fiction/   https://historicalnovelsociety.org/defining-the-genre-2/  Time stamps:  00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:00:53 Hello to Amy!  00:01:30 What is Historical Fiction, and what defines it?  00:04:28 Amy's thoughts on Historical Fiction 00:12:11 Historical Fiction Recommendations 01:07:28 Outro   Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today's episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season, or this list for today's episode!  Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!  We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!   Want to reach out? Send an email to bookloungebylibby@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Emily is joined by Dolen Perkins-Valdez, author of the 2026 Reading Across Rhode Island selection Happy Land, to discuss the themes of family and community in her book. They also dig into strong sisterhood bonds, Queen Charlotte, and crab cakes. In the Last Chapter, Emily asks: is there a character from a book whose story you'd like to see get a different ending? Overdueing It is a project funded by the Rhode Island Office of Library and Information Services and is produced by library staff around the Ocean State. We are proud to be a resident partner of the Rhode Island Center for the Book. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speakers' own and do not represent those of the Overdueing It podcast, its sponsor organizations, or any participants' place of employment. The content of Overdueing It episodes are the property of the individual creators, with permission for Overdueing It to share the content on their podcast feed in perpetuity. Any of the content from the Overdueing It podcast can not be reproduced without express written permission. Our logo was designed by Sarah Bouvier and our theme music is by Neura-Flow. Books Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez Seven Daughters of Dupree by Nikesha Elise Williams After the Fall by Edward Ashton Browse books by Kate Quinn in the library catalog Media Moonlight (2016) Bridgerton (2020- ) Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story Other Dolen Perkins-Valdez Reading With Robin Rhode Island Center for the Book

Host Emily is joined by Dolen Perkins-Valdez, author of the 2026 Reading Across Rhode Island selection Happy Land, to discuss the themes of family and community in her book. They also dig into strong sisterhood bonds, Queen Charlotte, and crab cakes. In the Last Chapter, Emily asks: is there a character from a book whose story you'd like to see get a different ending? Overdueing It is a project funded by the Rhode Island Office of Library and Information Services and is produced by library staff around the Ocean State. We are proud to be a resident partner of the Rhode Island Center for the Book. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speakers' own and do not represent those of the Overdueing It podcast, its sponsor organizations, or any participants' place of employment. The content of Overdueing It episodes are the property of the individual creators, with permission for Overdueing It to share the content on their podcast feed in perpetuity. Any of the content from the Overdueing It podcast can not be reproduced without express written permission. Our logo was designed by Sarah Bouvier and our theme music is by Neura-Flow. Books Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez Seven Daughters of Dupree by Nikesha Elise Williams After the Fall by Edward Ashton Browse books by Kate Quinn in the library catalog Media Moonlight (2016) Bridgerton (2020- ) Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story Other Dolen Perkins-Valdez Reading With Robin Rhode Island Center for the Book

285.ที่เมืองสวรรค์เป็นสุข (There Is a Happy Land) by คริสตจักรตรัง

Tim Bird – Happy Land: finding my inner Finn, talking about his forty years in the World´s happiest country

Season 6 finale, Baddies! We wrap up Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez with reflections on legacy, growth, and the power of knowing where you come from. From conversations about Black womanhood and community to navigating change, purpose, and the end-of-year reset—we're closing this chapter with gratitude! Plus, we share what's ahead for 2026, how to stay connected through our Substack, Bookum club, and socials, and why this season means so much to us. Gatekeeper Press- https://gatekeeperpress.com/online-consultation/ Boom Town- https://bookshop.org/p/books/boom-town-nic-stone/1f424fb1fb494094?ean=9781668056271&next=t Kayla Nicole Tik Tok- https://www.tiktok.com/@iamkaylanicolesweetie/video/7567447791098694943?lang=en We can't wait to hear from you! :) Please send any questions or comments about this episode to shewellread@gmail.com or use the form at the bottom of the SWR Podcast page: https://www.shewellread.com/contact OR leave us a Voice Note at https://www.speakpipe.com/shewellread‬ Follow SHE WELL READ! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/ TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@shewellread Substack- https://substack.com/@shewellread Bookum- https://app.bookumapp.com/clubs/668ad565858c97a7faafafb1 Bookshop Storefront- https://bookshop.org/shop/shewellread More links including discount codes: https://bio.site/shewellread Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hey Well Read Baddies! We're back with chapters 41–44 of Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez — and the emotional stakes are higher than ever. This week, we follow generations fighting for legacy, land, and love, as long-held secrets finally lead to moments of truth and restoration. We're also chatting about friendship, indie book recs, and all the pop culture chaos that kept us laughing through it all. Tap in for one of our last deep dives of the season — and don't forget to leave us a voice note for the finale! oin our virtual book club on the Bookum app, browse our Bookshop.org list, and listen on Libro.fm. Leave us a voice note with your thoughts, and if you'd like to support the show directly, our $5 Substack tier keeps this indie pod running. Links below! Next chapters: Epilogue and Authors Note Gatekeeper Press- https://gatekeeperpress.com/online-consultation/ The Last Man on Earth- https://amzn.to/3JikJdU We can't wait to hear from you! :) Please send any questions or comments about this episode to shewellread@gmail.com or use the form at the bottom of the SWR Podcast page: https://www.shewellread.com/contact OR leave us a Voice Note at https://www.speakpipe.com/shewellread‬ Follow SHE WELL READ! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/ TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@shewellread Substack- https://substack.com/@shewellread Bookum- https://app.bookumapp.com/clubs/668ad565858c97a7faafafb1 Bookshop Storefront- https://bookshop.org/shop/shewellread More links including discount codes: https://bio.site/shewellread Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hey Well Read Baddies! We're back with chapters 37–40 of Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez — and the tension is building. In this episode, family loyalties are tested, the past comes knocking, and tough choices put legacy and belief to the ultimate test. We explore how history, rest, and resilience shape the women at the heart of this story — and what it really means to fight for what's yours. Next chapters: 41-44 Gatekeeper Press- https://gatekeeperpress.com/online-consultation/ We can't wait to hear from you! :) Please send any questions or comments about this episode to shewellread@gmail.com or use the form at the bottom of the SWR Podcast page: https://www.shewellread.com/contact OR leave us a Voice Note at https://www.speakpipe.com/shewellread‬ Follow SHE WELL READ! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/ TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@shewellread Substack- https://substack.com/@shewellread Bookum- https://app.bookumapp.com/clubs/668ad565858c97a7faafafb1 Bookshop Storefront- https://bookshop.org/shop/shewellread More links including discount codes: https://bio.site/shewellread Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hey Well Read Baddies! We're back with chapters 33–36 of Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez — and trust us, the stakes are sky-high. In this episode, four generations land under one roof, “land vs. family” collisions take center stage, and Wade's rushed trial delivers a gut-punch verdict that threatens the Kingdom itself. We break down the courtroom power plays, the consequences of that fateful deed, and how generational guilt ripples through Nikki's present. Plus, in our coffee break, we share our latest reads — Lana dives into Make a Scene by Mimi Grace, while Sam revisits Deja Brew by Celestine Martin. We also chat about our realistic fall TBR goals and what's coming next in our Substack roundup. Content warning: racial violence, wrongful conviction, family conflict. Reading along or just here for the convo, grab your copy of Happy Land and tune in — things are getting real in the Kingdom. P.S. Join our virtual book club on the Bookum app, browse our Bookshop.org list, and listen on Libro.fm. Leave us a voice note with your thoughts, and if you'd like to support the show directly, our $5 Substack tier keeps this indie pod running. Links below! We can't wait to hear from you! :) Please send any questions or comments about this episode to shewellread@gmail.com or use the form at the bottom of the SWR Podcast page: https://www.shewellread.com/contact OR leave us a Voice Note at https://www.speakpipe.com/shewellread‬ Follow SHE WELL READ! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/ TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@shewellread Substack- https://substack.com/@shewellread Bookum- https://app.bookumapp.com/clubs/668ad565858c97a7faafafb1 Bookshop Storefront- https://bookshop.org/shop/shewellread More links including discount codes: https://bio.site/shewellread Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hey Well Read Baddies! We're back with chapters 29–32 of Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez — and trust us, the drama is drama-ing. In this episode, we talk family reunions, tough choices, and one wild cliffhanger you won't see coming. We also share what we're watching, and drop some book and show recs you'll want to add to your list. Whether you're reading along or just here for the conversation, grab your copy of Happy Land and tune in — things are heating up in the kingdom. Next chapters: 33-36 We can't wait to hear from you! :) Please send any questions or comments about this episode to shewellread@gmail.com or use the form at the bottom of the SWR Podcast page: https://www.shewellread.com/contact OR leave us a Voice Note at https://www.speakpipe.com/shewellread‬ Follow SHE WELL READ! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/ TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@shewellread Substack- https://substack.com/@shewellread Bookum- https://app.bookumapp.com/clubs/668ad565858c97a7faafafb1 Bookshop Storefront- https://bookshop.org/shop/shewellread More links including discount codes: https://bio.site/shewellread Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hey Well Read Baddies! We're back with chapters 25–28 of Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez. In this episode, we dive into the return of William, Luella's impossible choices, and the emotional fallout that leaves everyone questioning love, loyalty, and legacy. From shocking reunions to heartbreaking losses, this section takes us on a wild ride—and we have thoughts! Whether you're reading along or just here for the drama, grab your copy of Happy Land and tune in as things go way left. Next chapters: 29-32 Vitamin Drops- https://www.amazon.com/Trace-Minerals-Servings-Absorption-Vegetarian/dp/B09NMMXTX7 We can't wait to hear from you! :) Please send any questions or comments about this episode to shewellread@gmail.com or use the form at the bottom of the SWR Podcast page: https://www.shewellread.com/contact OR leave us a Voice Note at https://www.speakpipe.com/shewellread‬ Follow SHE WELL READ! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/ TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@shewellread Substack- https://substack.com/@shewellread Bookum- https://app.bookumapp.com/clubs/668ad565858c97a7faafafb1 Bookshop Storefront- https://bookshop.org/shop/shewellread More links including discount codes: https://bio.site/shewellread Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this final installment of my interview with Dolan Perkins Valdez, the New York Times bestselling author of “Wench,” “Bomb,” “Take My Hand,” and most recently, Happyland, we get a peek at where her personal throughline is leading her next and hear her answers to my fast final five questions about what she's currently reading, listening to, and dreaming of eating.We covered:The visual artists who are currently inspiring her, some living, some deadHer favorite historical fiction authorsThe AMAZING sounding historical fiction writers conference that cemented her path as a historical fiction authorHow she's re-thinking how she spends her time now that her older daughter is going off to collegeThe romance novel she stayed up too late reading and the Netflix series about high school girls she watched with her daughterThe music she listens to when her energy flagsConnect with Dolen on Instagram @dolenperkinsvaldezFor full show notes with links to everything we discuss, plus bonus photos!, visit katehanley.substack.com.Thank you for listening!And thanks to this week's sponsor, Air Doctor Pro. Visit airdoctorpro.com and use code KATE to save 30% off an amazing indoor air filter *and* receive a free three-year warranty (an $84 value). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dolan Perkins Valdez, multiple award-winning author of “Wench,” “Bomb,” and “Take My Hand.” Her newest book, “Happyland,” is inspired by the true story of a secret community of formerly enslaved people in Appalachia.In this episode, we get into the nitty gritty of the ideas, thought processes, and beliefs that fuel her work, including:The part of writing a novel that can make her feel like “the book is taking years off my life”The surprising number of drafts it takes to get to a publishable manuscriptHow to elicit feedback that is actually helpful from early readersIdentifying your “good readers”The research habit that can bite her in the buttThe part of the writing process where her writerly demons tend to pop up the mostBuilding your day around when your brain is at its bestWhy she writes every book as if it's her lastWhy she views all writing as politicalWriting what's in your heart, not what you think will sellThe question she asks herself when she's writing things that scare herConnect with Dolen on Instagram @dolenperkinsvaldezFor full show notes with links to everything we discuss, plus bonus photos!, visit katehanley.substack.com.Thank you for listening!And thanks to this week's sponsor, Air Doctor Pro. Visit airdoctorpro.com and use code KATE to save 30% off an amazing indoor air filter *and* receive a free three-year warranty (an $84 value). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hey Well Read Baddies! We're back with chapters 21–24 of Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez. In this episode, we unpack Nikki's discoveries about heirs' property law, the heartbreaking history of Black land loss, and her tense confrontation with one of the Thomas brothers. Whether you're reading along or just here for the conversation, grab your copy of Happy Land and tune in as we cross the halfway point of the book! Next chapters: 25-28 00:00 Intro 02:02 Church Announcements 02:47 Coffee Break 14:27 Get into the Chapter We can't wait to hear from you! :) Please send any questions or comments about this episode to shewellread@gmail.com or use the form at the bottom of the SWR Podcast page: https://www.shewellread.com/contact OR leave us a Voice Note at https://www.speakpipe.com/shewellread‬ Follow SHE WELL READ! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/ TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@shewellread Substack- https://substack.com/@shewellread Bookum- https://app.bookumapp.com/clubs/668ad565858c97a7faafafb1 Bookshop Storefront- https://bookshop.org/shop/shewellread More links including discount codes: https://bio.site/shewellread Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

My guest this week is Dolan Perkins-Valdez, the New York Times bestselling author of the novels “Wench,” “Bomb,” “Take My Hand,” and most recently, “Happyland.” Her books are all inspired by fascinating facets of American history that are in danger of being forgotten. They have earned awards from the NAACP, the Black Caucus of the American Library Association and the American Bar Association. And they've been named best books of the year by Goodreads users and Amazon editors. Dolan is a three-time nominee for a United States Artists Fellowship and an associate professor in the literature department at American University.We covered:Why she goes to the special archives in the library in any town she visitsWhy emails from readers are the best giftHow she recovers from book tourWhat teaching offers her (beyond benefits and a 401K)Her specific writing processThe handicraft that makes her “most at peace”Her pre-writing morning routineHow she measures her writing process (hint: it's not word count)Connect with Dolen on Instagram @dolenperkinsvaldezFor full show notes with links to everything we discuss, plus bonus photos!, visit katehanley.substack.com.Thank you for listening!And thanks to this week's sponsor, Aqua Tru. Visit aquatru.com and use code KATE to save 20% off a great countertop reverse osmosis water filter that I have been using and loving for years now. Comes with a 1-year warranty and a 30-day money back guarantee. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hey Well Read Baddies! In this episode we're diving into chapters 17–20 of Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez. Nikki uncovers the truth about her family's land, we learn more about heirs' property, and tensions rise as the Kingdom of Happy Land faces new threats. We also recap Birmingham's “Behind the Ink” event with Kennedy Ryan and share a few of our latest reads. Whether you're reading along or just tuning in for the tea, join the convo on the Bookum app (don't miss the Happy Land Nook on October 2nd!) and drop us a spoiler-free voice note—link to do so below! 00:00 Intro 01:10 Church Announcements 03:07 Coffee Break 13:15 Get Into the Chapters Next episode: chapters 21–24 We can't wait to hear from you! :) Please send any questions or comments about this episode to shewellread@gmail.com or use the form at the bottom of the SWR Podcast page: https://www.shewellread.com/contact OR leave us a Voice Note at https://www.speakpipe.com/shewellread‬ Follow SHE WELL READ! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/ TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@shewellread Substack- https://substack.com/@shewellread Bookum- https://app.bookumapp.com/clubs/668ad565858c97a7faafafb1 Bookshop Storefront- https://bookshop.org/shop/shewellread More links including discount codes: https://bio.site/shewellread Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hey Well Read Baddies! We're back with Episode 4 of Season 6, diving into chapters 13–16 of Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez. This week, Luella steps into leadership, Robert rises as king (and maybe something more…), and Nikki follows fresh clues with Miss Maddie Mae that bring family history into focus. Grab your copy of Happy Land and join our virtual book club on Bookum! 00:00 Intro 00:57 Church Announcements 02:36 Coffee Break 23:17 Get Into the Chapters Next episode: chapters 17–20. We can't wait to hear from you! :) Please send any questions or comments about this episode to shewellread@gmail.com or use the form at the bottom of the SWR Podcast page: https://www.shewellread.com/contact OR leave us a Voice Note at https://www.speakpipe.com/shewellread‬ Follow SHE WELL READ! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/ TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@shewellread Substack- https://substack.com/@shewellread Bookum- https://app.bookumapp.com/clubs/668ad565858c97a7faafafb1 Bookshop Storefront- https://bookshop.org/shop/shewellread More links including discount codes: https://bio.site/shewellread Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hey Well Read Baddies, we're back with Episode 3 of Season 6! This week we're diving into chapters 9–12 of Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez. Whether you're reading along or just tuning in for the tea, welcome in! Grab your copy of Happy Land, join our discussion on the Bookum app, and share your spoiler-free thoughts with us! 00:00 Intro 00:46 Church Announcements 02:50 Coffee Break 25:01 Get Into the Chapters Next episode: chapters 13–16. Mentions in episode: Jennette's New Book- https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/735278/half-his-age-by-jennette-mccurdy/ Wicked at The BJCC- https://www.bjcc.org/upcoming-events/wicked/ We can't wait to hear from you! :) Please send any questions or comments about this episode to shewellread@gmail.com or use the form at the bottom of the SWR Podcast page: https://www.shewellread.com/contact OR leave us a Voice Note at https://www.speakpipe.com/shewellread‬ Follow SHE WELL READ! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/ TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@shewellread Substack- https://substack.com/@shewellread Bookum- https://app.bookumapp.com/clubs/668ad565858c97a7faafafb1 Bookshop Storefront- https://bookshop.org/shop/shewellread More links including discount codes: https://bio.site/shewellread Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hey Well Read Baddies, we're back with Episode 2 of Season 6! This week we're diving into chapters 5–8 of Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez, exploring family rifts, community secrets, and the rise of the Kingdom of Happy Land. Whether you're reading along or just tuning in for the tea, welcome in! Grab your copy of Happy Land, join our discussion on the Book'em app, and share your spoiler-free thoughts with us! 01:13 Church Announcements 02:34 Coffee Break 15:19 Get Into the Chapters Next episode: chapters 9–12. We can't wait to hear from you! :) Please send any questions or comments about this episode to shewellread@gmail.com or use the form at the bottom of the SWR Podcast page: https://www.shewellread.com/contact OR leave us a Voice Note at https://www.speakpipe.com/shewellread‬ Follow SHE WELL READ! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/ TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@shewellread Substack- https://substack.com/@shewellread Bookum- https://app.bookumapp.com/clubs/668ad565858c97a7faafafb1 Bookshop Storefront- https://bookshop.org/shop/shewellread More links including discount codes: https://bio.site/shewellread Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well Read Baddies, we're back! Season 6 is officially here, and we're starting strong with our seasonal book pick—Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez. In this premiere episode, Lana and Sam break down chapters 1–4, unpacking family secrets, generational patterns, and the roots of the Kingdom of Happy Land. Whether you're a returning listener or brand new to the club, welcome in! Grab your copy of Happy Land , join our discussion on the Bookum app, and leave us a voice note with your thoughts—just no spoilers please! 00:00 Welcome to Season Six! 01:51 Church Announcements 05:37 Coffee Break 23:33 Get Into the Chapters Next episode: chapters 5–8. We can't wait to hear from you! :) Please send any questions or comments about this episode to shewellread@gmail.com or use the form at the bottom of the SWR Podcast page: https://www.shewellread.com/contact OR leave us a Voice Note at https://www.speakpipe.com/shewellread‬ Follow SHE WELL READ! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/ TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@shewellread Substack- https://substack.com/@shewellread Bookum- https://app.bookumapp.com/clubs/668ad565858c97a7faafafb1 Bookshop Storefront- https://bookshop.org/shop/shewellread More links including discount codes: https://bio.site/shewellread Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Three of twelve high school students from CRC North Keilor share their experiences during their immersion trip to the Philippines. - Nagtungo sa Pilipinas ang ilang mga high school students mula CRC North Keilor upang magkaroon ng ideya sa buhay sa piling mga komunidad sa Tondo at Tagaytay.

Hey well read baddies! It's the last bonus episode before we kick off rewind episodes—and we've got updates galore. We're revealing our Season 6 book pick (Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez—our first historical fiction!), and announcing a special virtual book club collab with Chid from the But What Do I Know? podcast featuring author Danielle Allen. In Coffee Break, we're talking Cowboy Carter tour chaos, Love Island drama, and why some of y'all need to let us have fun. Plus: audiobook recs, upcoming Substack drops, and a reminder to leave us a voice note. New season starts August 28—tap in! Register for our virtual event with the BWDIK Podcast and Author Danielle Allen: https://forms.gle/kgCZzezHCRvLodes9 Partnership Deck- https://www.canva.com/design/DAEYH_BO5sw/RyRc3-E_Wh8Yfsj45LotoA/edit?utm_content=DAEYH_BO5sw&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton We can't wait to hear from you! :) Please send any questions or comments about this episode to shewellread@gmail.com or use the form at the bottom of the SWR Podcast page: https://www.shewellread.com/contact OR leave us a Voice Note at https://www.speakpipe.com/shewellread‬ Follow SHE WELL READ! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/ TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@shewellread Substack- https://substack.com/@shewellread Bookum- https://app.bookumapp.com/clubs/668ad565858c97a7faafafb1 Bookshop Storefront- https://bookshop.org/shop/shewellread More links including discount codes: https://bio.site/shewellread Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're halfway through the year—and it's the perfect time to pause, reflect, and realign. In this solo check-in, Dr. Cassandre shares where she is with her 2025 goals, what she's been reading for fun (no self-help in sight!), and how a guided meditation challenge is helping her unlearn toxic habits and visualize her next chapter—with science to back it up.She also shares a few things on her radar, including the Insight Timer app, a powerful 7-day meditation series by Justin Michael Williams, the joy of writing on Substack, and the underrated beauty of slow foods. In this episode, we discussed:A transparent look at Be Well, Sis' mid-year goals + where we standBooks on her summer reading list: Happy Land, Matriarch by Tina Knowles, Love RadioThe Insight Timer app + 7-Day “Stop Holding Yourself Back” meditation challengeThe power of visualizationWhat “slow foods” are teaching her about mindfulnessA listener DM that came right on timeA “Not Well, Sis” letter about choosing to live child-free Connect with me on socials- join the Be Well,Sis tribe on Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube , and subscribe to the newsletter or buy me a coffee!If this episode resonated with you- share with a friend and leave a 5 Star Rating on Apple Podcast and Spotify!We're supporting St Jude's- head over to www.stjude.org/bewellsis right now and sign up to be a monthly donor. Together, we can make a real impact.Want to get in touch? Maybe you want to hear from a certain guest or have a recommendation for On My Radar? Get in touch at hello@editaud.io with Be Well Sis in the subject line! Have you're on Not Well, Sis rant to contribute? Click here to send it into the show!Be Well, Sis is hosted by Dr Cassandre Dunbar. The show is edited, mixed and produced by Megan Hayward. Our Production Manager is Kathleen Speckert. Be Well, Sis is an editaudio collaboration. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dolen Perkins-Valdez joins the Exchange to discuss her new book, "Happy Land".

Host Jo Reed and AudioFile's Kendra Winchester dive into dazzling performances by Bahni Turpin and Ashley J. Hobbs in this historical fiction audiobook. When Nikki drives into the mountains of North Carolina to visit her grandmother for the first time, she doesn't know what to expect. Soon, she's learning all about her ancestor, Luella, who was queen of a small kingdom in Happy Land. Together, Hobbs and Turpin pair perfectly, bringing vibrant energy to their performances. Read our review of the audiobook at our website Published by Penguin Audio. Discover thousands of audiobook reviews and more at AudioFile's website.  Support for Behind the Mic comes from Hachette Audio and NIGHT WATCHER, by Daphne Woolsoncroft (of the Going West podcast), who read an audio-exclusive author's note before the stunning dual-narration by Will Collyer and Helen Laser. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dolen Perkins-Valdez shares the riveting history behind her new book, Happy Land, the research surprises she uncovered, and how urgency drives her storytelling.In today's Book Gang episode, New York Times bestselling author Dolen Perkins-Valdez joins me to discuss Happy Land, a transporting novel inspired by the true story of a lost kingdom built by freed people in the hills of North Carolina. This dual-timeline story explores land, lineage, and the courage it takes to reclaim what is yours. Dolen's excavation process informs this sweeping novel—even uncovering a few historical inaccuracies along the way. The result is a stunning celebration of Black heritage and a poignant reclamation of overlooked American history that has captivated her readers.In this moving conversation, Dolen and I discuss:Why Dolen feels an urgency behind each book she writes—and how it drives her to shape her manuscriptsThe immersive research that brought the Kingdom community to life, including conversations with local historians and surprising archival discoveries.How the concept of royalty and reclamation shaped the story—and why the roles of Black women in these communities are long overdue for deeper recognition.BONUS BOOK LIST: This week, I'm sharing a companion list of 27 Historical Fiction Book Club Books to Check Out Now, featuring new releases and timeless backlist picks that will spark incredible conversations within your book club.Meet Dolen Perkins-ValdezDolen Perkins-Valdez is the New York Times bestselling author of Wench, Balm, Take My Hand, and her newest novel, Happy Land. Her work has earned honors from the NAACP, the American Bar Association, and the Black Caucus of the American Library Association, and she's been recognized as one of the most vital voices chronicling American historical life.In addition to her writing, Dolen is an associate professor of literature at American University. She has introduced modern editions of Twelve Years a Slave and Behind the Scenes, bringing an unflinching dedication to uncovering hidden histories and amplifying overlooked Black stories. She lives in Washington, DC, with her family. Mentioned in this episode:Browse the 2025 MomAdvice Summer Reading Guide (with ads) or download the 48-page reading guide ($7) to support our show. If you are a show patron, please check your inbox for your copy as part of your member benefits. Thank you for supporting my small business!   Download Today's Show TranscriptJoin the June Book Club Chat (The Reckless Oath We Made)BONUS BOOK LIST: 27 Historical Fiction Book Club Books For Your Next MeetingHappy Land by Dolen Perkins-ValdezTake My Hand by Dolen Perkins-ValdezTake My Hand Book Club Discussion on PatreonOcean VuongBlack History Research CommitteeSadie Smathers PattonThe Black Utopians by Aaron RobertsonBlue Ridge Archive Web ExhibitTranscendent Kingdom by Yaa GyasiGood Dirt by Charmaine WilkersonThe Queen of Sugar Hill by Rashonda TateBookshop.org pays a 10% commission on every sale and matches 10% to independent bookstores!Connect With Us:Join the Book Gang PatreonConnect with Dolen on Instagram or her WebsiteConnect with Amy on Instagram, TikTok, or MomAdviceGet My Happy List NewsletterGet the Daily Kindle Deals NewsletterBuy Me a Coffee (for a one-time donation) 

In this interview, I chat with Kristy Woodson Harvey about ⁠⁠⁠⁠Beach House Rules, deciding on a format for telling the story, finding the right title for this one, what surprised her the most about writing this one, why she chose a white collar crime and her reasearch on the subject, and much more. Kristy's recommended reads are: Happy Land by Dolen Perkins Valdez The Unraveling of Julia by Lisa Scottoline The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau by Kristin Harmel Listen to the Friends and Fiction Fifth Anniversary Episode. Looking for some great winter reads? Check out my printable 17-page ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠2025 Winter Reading Guide⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ with 45 new titles vetted by me that will provide great entertainment this winter. I also include mystery series recommendations, new releases in a next-in-the-series section and fiction and nonfiction pairings. Want to know which new titles are publishing in June - October of 2025? Check out our fourth ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Literary Lookbook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠which contains a comprehensive but not exhaustive list all in one place so you can plan ahead.     Beach House Rules⁠⁠ can be purchased at my Bookshop storefront.  Looking for something new to read? Here is my monthly ⁠⁠⁠⁠Buzz Reads⁠⁠⁠⁠ column with five new recommendations each month. Link to my article about ⁠⁠⁠⁠older protagonists in fiction⁠⁠⁠⁠.     Connect with me on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Threads⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Writer's Voice: compelling conversations with authors who challenge, inspire, and inform. Episode Summary In this episode of Writer's Voice, we speak with two authors who excavate buried truths and challenge dominant cultural narratives. Dolen Perkins-Valdez discusses her historical novel Happy Land, inspired by a real African American community founded after the Civil War in North … Continue reading Kingdoms Lost & Myths Undone: Dolen Perkins-Valdez on HAPPY LAND and Nancy Reddy on THE GOOD MOTHER MYTH →

The setting for a new novel is a communal society founded by freed people in North Carolina. It was a real place called The Kingdom of the Happy Land.Also, a Tennessee writer, musician and playwright talks about his collaborations and ability to capture a sense of place.And, the online world of Appalachian memes — and what they tell us about folks who live here.You'll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

This week on Black & Published, Nikesha speaks with Dolen Perkins-Valdez, about her new historical fiction novel, Happy Land. The books is based on the true story of how a group of Black people founded their own Kingdom on more than 200 acres of mountain land that straddled North and South Carolina. In writing Happy Land, Dolen is correcting the historical record about the origins of the Happy Land settlers that has stood as the final word 75 years. How she learned about this intentional Black settlement and the research she says is still required. Plus, the reason Dolen believes land ownership represents the possibility of Black imagination. And, how the kingdom of the happy land may provide a Blueprint for Black people today living in this time of crisis. Mahogany Books Mentioned in this episode:Rate & ReviewThanks for listening, family! Please do us a solid and take a quick moment to rate and/or leave a review for this podcast. It will go a long way to making sure content featuring our stories and perspectives are seen on this platform

Our friend and scribe supreme FRED VAN LENTE returns to discuss some torturous theme parks! Fred has a new trade coming out as this episode drops, collecting his series Murder Kingdom… and we're gonna pair that with a delicious chilled glass of Forever People issue 4 (DC Comics, December 1971), featuring diabolical Desaad's Happyland! Oh what fun! Plus, we discuss his BRAND new book, The Future Is ******!    You can find FVL on Instagram: @fredvanlente And his LinkTree has links to all of his doings, books, writing lessons and more!  www.linktr.ee/fredvanlente   For all things Jacked Kirby, including links to listen everywhere, our social media pages, and a place to buy yourself a swell Jacked Kirby t-shirt, visit our FlowPage: www.flow.page/jackedkirby   If you like the show, share the show! Spread the word, tell a buddy, tag a friend! And make sure you rate and review us wherever you can! Thanks, kids!

  We are delighted to welcome Dr. Dolen Perkins Valdez back to the program today. Dolen is an associate professor of English literature at American University, but our listeners better know her as an award-winning, critically-acclaimed novelist. Her previous works are Wench, Balm, and Take My Hand. Today we'll be discussing her latest release, Happy Land, which is published by Berkley. 

When Nikki travels to visit her grandmother in western North Carolina, she expects answers about her family's history. But instead, she uncovers her connection to the Kingdom of the Happy Land, a community of formerly enslaved people. Dolen Perkins-Valdez's new novel Happy Land follows Nikki as she delves deeper into family secrets. The author says she was inspired by the true story of an autonomous Black community that once lived in the mountains of Appalachia. In today's episode, Perkins-Valdez joins NPR's Michel Martin for a conversation about how the author first heard of this little-known chapter in North Carolina history.To listen to Book of the Day sponsor-free and support NPR's book coverage, sign up for Book of the Day+ at plus.npr.org/bookofthedayLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

We were thrilled to talk with author Eowyn Ivey about her new book, BLACK WOODS BLUE SKY. During our conversation, Eowyn shared her writing habits, including a description of her writing cottage, and tells us about her reading life. Topics ranged from motherhood on the page and in real life, her family's literary life in Alaska, and Proust vs Joyce. In our own reading lives, we both read and discuss “The North Mail” by Amelia B. Edwards from THE PENGUIN BOOK OF GHOST STORIES: from Elizabeth Gaskell to Ambrose Bierce. We gave this one four paws up. Or should it be eight paws? Whatever the rating system should be for cougars, we both enjoyed Edwards's story. It has a good creep factor and atmosphere, both indoors and outside. Other books we've enjoyed include novels HAPPY LAND by Dolan Perkins-Valdez and THE GRIFFIN SISTERS GREATEST HITS by Jennifer Weiner; a quartet of novellas, OLD NEW YORK by Edith Wharton; and two works of nonfiction: STORYWORTHY: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling by Matthew Dicks and DEEP WORK: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World by Cal Newport. Big thanks to this episode's sponsor, James Crews and Brad Peacock. The new poetry collection they co-edited is available on May 6: LOVE IS FOR ALL OF US: Poems of Tenderness and Belonging from the LGBTQ+ Community and Friends (with illustrations by Lisa Congdon). We also recap a great Biblio Adventure to the Mark Twain House to hear Ethan Rutherford (author of NORTH SUN, OR THE VOYAGE OF THE WHALESHIP ESTHER) in conversation with Amity Gaige about her new novel, HEARTWOOD. Chris also got to attend THE MOUNT'S virtual book club discussion of Edith Wharton's A SON AT THE FRONT and Willa Cather's ONE OF OURS, led by Anne Schuyler and Julie Olin-Ammentorp. As always, there are more books inside this episode than we can fit here! Enjoy, and be sure not to miss our conversation with Eowyn Ivey at the end. Oh, and reminder: our second quarter readalong pick is THE GOOD HOUSE by Tananarive Due (Zoom discussion on 6/8 and also on Goodreads). Thanks for listening, and happy reading! https://www.bookcougars.com/blog-1/2025/episode232 The Good House Goodreads readalong https://www.bookcougars.com/blog-1/2025/episode231 Penguin Book of Ghost Stories Goodreads thread https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/23017532-ghost-stories

Episode 57 An illegal nightclub in the Bronx was the scene of the largest mass murder in US HIstory at the time it occurred in 1990. A scorned lover went to the club to persuade his ex-girlfriend to take him back and when his attempts were unsuccessful, he did the unthinkable. With a bottle he found in the street and a dollar worth of gasoline purchased at a nearby gas station, he returned to the club and committed an arson attack that would claim 87 lives. What could drive a man to such drastic measures and how could one fire be so deadly? Listen to this week's episode on the Happy Land Social Club Fire to find out. One man may be responsible for setting the fire, but a series of failures by city officials contributed to the scope of the tragedy.  This podcast is a true crime podcast about arson and criminal fires. Listener discretion is recommended.  Background music by Not Notoriously Coordinated  Get your Crime to Burn Merch! https://crimetoburn.myspreadshop.com Please follow us on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok and Youtube for the latest news on this case. You can email us at crimetoburn@gmail.com We welcome any constructive feedback and would greatly appreciate a 5 star rating and review.  If you need a way to keep your canine contained, you can also support the show by purchasing a Pawious wireless dog fence using our affiliate link and use the code "crimetoburn" at checkout to receive 10% off. Pawious, because our dog Winston needed a radius, not a rap sheet.  Source List: Modjeska, OJ. (2020). Happy Land - A Lover's Revenge. Reality Plus - A Next Chapter Imprint. Brandt, S. and Sowder, A.M. ‘Contextualising tragedy in places of assembly through cases of New York City social club fires'. Architecture_MPS 24, 1 (2023): 4. DOI: https://doi.org/10.14324/111.444.amps.2023v24i1.004. https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=916658 https://www.firerescue1.com/fatal-fires/articles/reflecting-on-the-happy-land-social-club-fire-and-similar-incidents-o4qdT2ZGt97QnWIT/ https://allthatsinteresting.com/happy-land-fire https://pix11.com/news/happy-land-fire-25-years-on-wpixs-original-coverage-of-bronx-tragedy/ https://www.nytimes.com/1990/11/16/nyregion/prosecutor-clears-landlords-in-fatal-social-club-arson.html https://www.nydailynews.com/2015/03/17/fire-kills-87-people-at-the-happy-land-social-club-in-the-bronx-in-1990/ https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1990-03-28-mn-237-story.html https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/politics/1991/03/26/5-billion-suit-filed-over-ny-club-fire-that-cost-87-lives/9bc0fa60-992e-4864-91ab-0e5f3827e9bf/ https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/politics/1990/03/26/87-die-in-fire-at-illegal-ny-social-club/2245f278-6847-4894-95b4-f67bfd93b278/  

Do you know the true story of the Kingdom of the Happy Land? Tune in for an inspiring discussion with Dolen Perkins-Valdez on her new book Happy Land.  Moments with Marianne airs in the Southern California area on KMET1490AM & 98.1 FM, an ABC Talk News Radio affiliate! Dolen Perkins-Valdez is the New York Times bestselling author of Take My Hand. Dolen is an Associate Professor of Literature at American University, a graduate of Harvard, and a former University of California President's Postdoctoral Fellow at UCLA. https://dolenperkinsvaldez.com  For more show information visit: www.MariannePestana.com

Cynthia Morahan reviews Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez published by Hachette

Hey well-read baddies! This week, we're back with another #Black365 minisode and we sit down with bestselling author Dolen Perkins-Valdez to talk about her new novel Happy Land, inspired by the real-life Kingdom of the Happy Land—a self-sufficient Black community founded by formerly enslaved people in 1873. With little recorded history on this lost American kingdom, Dolen's research brings this untold story to life. We discussthe real history behind Happy Land and why it disappeared, the power of historical fiction in reclaiming Black narratives, and how economic independence has always been a form of resistance. If you love historical fiction, hidden history, or powerful storytelling, this episode is for you! 02:01 Church Announcements 4:36 Coffee Break 35:33 Get into the Guest Connect with Dolen- https://dolenperkinsvaldez.com/ Books mentioned and recs- https://bookshop.org/shop/shewellread We can't wait to hear from you! :) Please send any questions or comments about this episode to shewellread@gmail.com or use the form at the bottom of the SWR Podcast page: https://www.shewellread.com/contact OR leave us a Voice Note at https://www.speakpipe.com/shewellread‬ Follow SHE WELL READ! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shewellread/ TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeDCLdTX/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/shewellread More links including discount codes: https://bio.site/shewellread Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New York Times bestselling author of "Take My Hand" and associate professor of literature at American University, Dolen Perkins-Valdez takes us inside her book "Happy Land" about the true story of the Kingdom of Appalachia. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.

This is part of a series about overlooked movies from 2005. ***Referenced media:“Distant Sky: Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds Live in Copenhagen” (David Barnard, 2018)“The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring” (Peter Jackson, 2001)“The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers” (Peter Jackson, 2002)“The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King” (Peter Jackson, 2003)“Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull” (Steven Spielberg, 2008)“Sexy Beast” (Jonathan Glazer, 2000)“Unforgiven” (Clint Eastwood, 1992)“McCabe & Mrs. Miller” (Robert Altman, 1971)“United 93” (Paul Greengrass, 2006)“World Trade Center” (Oliver Stone, 2006)“Cars” (John Lasseter, 2006)Audio quotation:“The Proposition” (John Hillcoat, 2005), including the songs “Happy Land”, “Down to the Valley”, “Martha's Dream”, “Sad Violin Thing”, “The Rider Song”, “Road to Banyon”, and “Clean Hands, Dirty Hands” by Nick Cave and Warren Ellis

Processing: 100 Comics That Got Me Through It by Tara Booth from Drawn & Quarterly, New Gods, Absolute Batman, Absolute Superman, Happyland, Rocketfellers, G. I. Joe, Transformers, Batman & Robin: Year One, Illustrators Super Special: The US Warren Artists, Barfly, The Dark Tower:  The Gunslinger Born, Milo Manara's Caravaggio, plus a whole mess more!

Hello friends! We have a double-header for you today. Austin based, Americana artist Sid Grimes talks about growing up in the middle of Hollywood, spending her adolescence in Nashville, moving to Chicago to go to school to become a conductor, studying opera and classical music, her journey from atheist to aspiring Catholic, and much more. Check out her debut EP, "House of Cards" and see her play with her band at Banger's on Friday, December 20th. Go to sidgrimes.com for music, show dates and more. Plus, Austin music business leader Nancy Coplin talks about the 49th annual Armadillo Christmas Bazaar taking place at Palmer Events Center from Saturday, December 14th to Monday December 23rd from 11 am to 9:30 pm daily. They'll be featuring music daily from some of Austin's biggest and brightest including Jackie Venson, Shinyribs, Ray Benson, Kelly Willis, Happyland, and more. Go to armadillobazaar.com for tickets and music line-up. Two great conversations with two fantastic people. Let's get down!    Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or anywhere you pod.   If you feel so inclined. Venmo: venmo.com/John-Goudie-1  Paypal: paypal.me/johnnygoudie

This week, we look at a British Olympic diver, who took the country by storm, as a teenager. He married an Olympic gymnast, and set out to have the perfect life. They did traveling acrobatic shows, then settled on making a business out of making kids into Olympians, with their gym. This was going great, until many, many women accuse him of taking them into a basement called "Happyland", back when he "coached" them.Be a national hero by the time you're barely a teenager, marry a medal winning gymnast, and destroy both your legacy & the lives of a lot of people, all at the same time!!Check us out, every Tuesday!We will continue to bring you the biggest idiots in sports history!! Hosted by James Pietragallo & Jimmie Whisman Donate at... patreon.com/crimeinsports or with paypal.com using our email: crimeinsports@gmail.com Get all the CIS & STM merch at crimeinsports.threadless.com Go to shutupandgivememurder.com for all things CIS & STM!! Contact us on... twitter.com/crimeinsports crimeinsports@gmail.com facebook.com/Crimeinsports instagram.com/smalltownmurderSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On the evening of March 24, 1990, nearly one hundred patrons gathered to celebrate Carnivale at the Happy Land Social Club, a small informal night club in the Bronx that catered to a mostly Honduran clientele. The evening took a deadly turn when, around 3:30 am, an explosion of fire roared up the stairway leading to the second-floor club, blocking the only exit from the building and trapping the patrons in a room rapidly filling with toxic smoke and fire. It's unknown how many patrons managed to escape the fire, but by the time the fire department had extinguished the blaze, eighty-seven people were dead.Thank you to the amazing Dave White of Bring Me the Axe Podcast for research!ReferencesBarbanel, Josh. 1990. "Bronx social club's sublease: How a firetrap skirted the line." New York Times, March 28: B1.—. 1990. "Tracing the club's owners." New York Times, March 27: B2.Barron, James. 1990. "The living search the faces of the dead." New York Times, March 26.Blumenthal, Ralph. 1990. "Fire in the Bronx; 87 die in blaze at illegal club." New York Times, March 26.Gelman, Mitch, Alexis Jetter, and Beth Holland. 1990. "87 die in arson called act of spurned lover." Newsday, March 26: 3.Gilbert, Allison. 2020. "A faded tragedy's long shadow." New York Times, March 29.Golden, Tim. 1990. "In the saddest way, New York learns about Hondurans." New York Times, April 1.Hernandez, Raymond. 1995. "Survivors call settlement 'unjust'." New York Times, July 7.Hevesi, Dennis. 1992. "Guilty plea by landlord in fire case." New York Times, May 9.Hirsch, James. 1988. "Most social clubs run the gamut of illegality." New York Times, August 22.Kerr, Peter. 1986. "Social Clubs: Modern Mob still uses a few as offices." New York Times, April 15.Lambert, Bruce. 1991. "Confession tape on Bronx blaze is heard by jury." New York Times, August 1.Lorch, Donatella. 1991. "Ex-girlfriend recalls threat before flames." New York Times, July 31.—. 1991. "Witness tells of visit by Happy Land fire suspect." New York Times, July 31.Maykuth, Andrew. 1990. "N.Y. fire suspect described as 'down to his last hope'." Philadelphia Inquirer, 03 27: 1.McFadden, Robert. 1990. "The Knights of the Padlock Sweep Forth." New York Times, March 31.New York Times. 1990. "7 victims: their stories, struggles and dreams of better lives." New York Times, March 29.Nieves, Evelyn. 1991. "Refugee found guilty of killing 87 in Bronx Happy Land fire." New York Times, August 20.People of the State of New York v. Julio Gonzalez. 1995. 163 Misc. 2d 950 (New York Supreme Court, Bronx County, February 10).Purdy, Matthew. 1995. "More than five years after the arson fire at the Happy Land Social Club..." New York Times, July 7.Roberts, Sam. 2016. "Julio Gonzalez, arsonist who killed 87 at a nightclub in the Bronx, dies at 61." New York Times, September 15.Schanberg, Sydney. 1990. "Please, some respect for 87 who died." Newsday, April 13: 62.Stanley, Alessandra. 1991. "At Happy Land mass-murder trial, days of tears, humor and boredom." New York Times, July 28.Stanley, Allessandra. 1990. "25 years to life for the arsonist at Happy Land." New York Times, September 20.Strom, Stephanie. 1990. "Hispanic residents rally against closing of social clubs." New York Times, April 6.Terry, Don. 1990. "Social club crackdown is the latest in a series." New York Times, March 26: A1.Wichers, Christine. 1990. "Male violence the real cause of Bronx fire." New York Times, April 10.THE BUTCHER GAME will be released on September 17th, 2024! To Pre-order go to (https://zandoprojects.com/books/the-butcher-game/) PLUS! If you preorder the book, get an autographed poster while supplies last by visiting (http://thebutchergame.com/)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.