Podcasts about poppy war

This week we're discussing The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang. Rin, a war orphan from the southern region of Nikara, is determined to get out of Tikany and the marriage her aunt has arranged for her. She scores astonishingly high on a national test and is accepted at Sinegard, a highly respected military academy in the north. At school she excels, despite the doubts of many, and her path leads her to study shamanism. Nikara's tentative peace with the Federation of Mugen grows shakier every day, and Rin's gifts may be the only way to save her people. Join us!

Today the Sibnerds are diving into hoaxes (well, two of them at least)! Josef took an archeology class this last term called “Frauds, Myths, and Legends,” and that was the inspiration for today's episode. We're specifically talking about the Cardiff Giant and the Man of Piltdown. Did you learn anything new? Do you have a favorite hoax from history? Join us for our Read Along of Star Wars: Queen's Shadow by: E.K. Johnston! Anna is watching: - The Pitt - Delicious in Dungeon - Futurama - Wish Dragon - Invincible - Yellowjackets - The Handmaid's Tale - Hotel Transylvania 2 - My Neighbor Totoro - Ponyo - Pokemon: Mewtwo Strikes Back Evolution - Pokemon: Indigo League - The Secret World of Arriety - Andor, season 2 - Thunderbolts* - The Last of Us, season 2 Anna is reading: - The Poppy War by: R.F. Kuang - The Power of Now by: Eckhart Tolle Anna is playing: - Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom - Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga - Pokemon: Snap - Pokemon: Sleep Josef is watching: - Sakamoto Days - Castlevania - Wheel of Time, season 3 - The Last of Us, season 2 - Andor, season 2 - Star Wars Episode 3: Revenge of the Sith - Thunderbolts* Josef is reading: - The Poppy War by: R.F. Kuang - Ship of Magic by: Robin Hobb Josef is playing: - Baldur's Gate 3 - Stardew Valley - D & D - Betrayal at House on the Hill - Castle Panic! Don't forget, you can get bonus content by joining our Patreon! Find us on Twitter: @litround Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LitRoundTable Find us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thelitroundtable Art: Kris Easler: https://www.kriseasler.com/

Today the SibNerds are talking about chapters 24 – 26, and that brings us to the end of The Poppy War. In this final installment of this Read Along, we discuss the book's last few chapters and the conclusion of this part of Rin's story. This was a heavy read, one that we certainly would recommend to other readers, but with some trigger warnings attached. While we applaud Kuang's ability to pull on real history, it was a little too much reality in our escapism for our taste. (But we'll probably finish the series at some point.) Join us for our next Read Along by picking up Star Wars: Queen's Shadow by E.K. Johnston! Happy Reading! Twitter: @litround  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LitRoundTable Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thelitroundtable Art: Kris Easler: https://www.kriseasler.com/

Today the SibNerds are talking about chapters 21 – 23. We hope that you took time to take care of yourselves after reading Chapter 21. It was a horrific depiction of what can (and did) happen in times of war when we stop seeing others as human. The conversation is heavy today, but important. Next time we finish the book. If you're a member of our Patreon, please make sure to vote for our next read along! Here are your choices: 1. Star Wars: Queen's Shadow by: E.K. Johnston 2. Walking in Two Worlds by: Wab Kinew 3. Sisters of Sword and Song by: Rebecca Ross Happy Reading!  Twitter: @litround Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LitRoundTable Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thelitroundtable Art: Kris Easler: https://www.kriseasler.com/

Today the SibNerds are talking about Chapters 17-20! Well, there's a lot to say about this section, and boy, do we get into it. From the monster-chasing side adventure to the downright abuse from Altan towards Rin to the Woman in the spirit world—so much is happening. And we get into all of it! For next time, read Chapters 21-23! Happy Reading!  Twitter: @litround  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LitRoundTable Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thelitroundtable Art: Kris Easler: https://www.kriseasler.com/

The girls dive in to discuss the epic fantasy novel, The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang. They share their overall rating, favorite and least favorite throughout each part of the book, and announce their April book club pick! Tune in to hear the moments that moved them, the lessons they learned, and whether or not they think they will continue the trilogy. Clean Simple Eats is our go-to protein! We love that they have so many options in the type of protein and flavors. Use our code READ20 for 20% off your first order at cleansimpleeats.com Prioritize your sleep! Visit CozyEarth.com and use our code READERS for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. And if you get a post-purchase survey, let them know you heard about Cozy Earth from our podcast. SHOP OUR MERCH⁠ - www.illreadwhatshesreading.com Follow us on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/whatshesreadingpod/⁠ Follow us on TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@whatshesreadingpod Please note this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today the SibNerds are talking about Snow White! There's a lot of discussion around the new live-action remake of Disney's Snow White, but today we're talking about the original fairytale by the Brothers Grimm! Did you learn anything new? Do you have a favorite iteration of Snow White? Join us for our Read Along of The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang! Josef is reading: - The Poppy War by: R.F. Kuang - Ship of Magic by: Robin Hobb Josef is watching: - Solo Leveling - Re: Zero - Daredevil - Wheel of Time, season 3 - Yellowjackets - Ru Paul's Dragrace Josef is playing: - D & D - Baldur's Gate 3 Anna is watching: - The Black Widow - Delicious in Dungeon - The Prince of Egypt - Veggie Tales: Lord of the Beans - Win or Lose - Invincible - Mike Meyer's Cat in the Hat - Yellowjackets Anna is reading: - The Poppy War by: R.F. Kuang - Witch Hat Atelier by: Kamome Shirahama - The Power of Now by: Eckhart Tolle Anna is playing: - Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom - Pokemon: Snap - Pokemon: Violet - Mario Party - Hades Don't forget, you can get bonus content by joining our Patreon! Find us on Twitter: @litround Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LitRoundTable Find us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thelitroundtable Art: Kris Easler: https://www.kriseasler.com/

This week we talk about book and game pairings. If you like these games you might like these books! Errata: Sam said The Monsters We Defy by Justina Ireland and she meant to say by Leslye PenelopeWhat We're PlayingMonster Hunter WildsAssassin's Creed Shadows*Call of Duty: Black Ops 6What We're ReadingThe Poppy War by R.F. KuangA Glimmer of Death by Valeria Wilson WesleySunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne CollinsWhat We're DrinkingMARS the Y.A. Japanese WhiskeyCold brew coffee with cold foamWhat We PairedJordyn1. The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson and The Devil in Me by Supermassive2. Three Dark Crowns by Kendare Blake and Queen by Midnight published by Derrington Press3. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins and Orwell Keeping an Eye on You by Osmotic Studios4. The 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle by Stuart Turton and What Remains of Edith Finch by Giant Sparrow5. The Looking Glass Wars by Frank Beddor and Lies of P by Round8 StudiosSam1. Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler and Chain-Gang All-Stars by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah and Freedom Wars Remastered by Bandai Namco2. Trail of Lightning and Storm of Locusts by Rebecca Roanhorse and Monster Hunter Wilds by Capcom (Middle Grade: Race to the Sun by Roanhorse and Monster Hunter Stories 1&2 by Capcom)3. The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang and Avowed by Obsidian4.What the River Knows by Isabel Ibanez and Tomb Riader by Crystal Dynamics 5. Ophie's Ghosts by Justina Ireland and The Monsters We Defy by Leslye Penelope and Spiritfarer by Thunder Lotus GamesSam's Honorable Mentions1. Devil in the Blue Dress by Walter Mosley and L.A. Noire by Team Bondi2. Dread Nation by Justina Ireland and The Poisons We Drink by Bethany Baptiste and South of Midnight by Compulsion Games *Code received for streaming and review purposes

Today the SibNerds are talking about Chapters 13-16! There's so much happening in this section! Rin is learning how to be a member of the Cike—with varying levels of success. We met a new cast of characters, and it's filling the found family trope that we love so much. Altan is back and in charge. His advice to Rin about how to use the Phoenix's fire is creating a lot of internal tension for Rin. Next time read Chapters 17-20! Happy Reading!  Twitter: @litround Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LitRoundTable Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thelitroundtable Art: Kris Easler: https://www.kriseasler.com/

Today the SibNerds are talking about Chapters 10 - 12! It's not summer break anymore! Part 2 came in with quite the shift—and it brought war upon Sinegard, and our students are forced to be soldiers. There was some really powerful commentary on the cost of war. We're learning more and more about the gods and the way they can move in the world. We're excited to learn even more! Next time we'll be discussing Chapters 13 - 16! Happy Reading!  Twitter: @litround Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LitRoundTable Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thelitroundtable Art: Kris Easler: https://www.kriseasler.com/

Today the SibNerds are talking about an element of storytelling they've come up against—one more recently than the other! What happens when a character becomes a favorite of the creator? This is something that creatives across genre and medium experience—from the novelist to the Dungeon Master! We may not have the answers, but it was fun to talk about it together! Join us for our Read Along of The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang! Anna is reading: - The Poppy War by: R.F. Kuang - Witch Hat Atelier by: Kamome Shirahama Anna is watching: - Kiff: The Lore of the Ring Light - Delicious in Dungeon - Futurama - Wish - Aristocats - The Great Mouse Detective - Win or Lose - Yellowjackets - Hundreds of Beavers - Killing Eve - Shutter Island Anna is playing: - Pokemon: Snap - Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Josef is watching: - Solo Leveling - Delicious in Dungeon - Yellowjackets - Hadestown - Critical Role, Exandria Unlimited: Divulgence Josef is reading: - The Poppy War by: R.F. Kuang - Solo Leveling by: Chugong - Warbreaker by: Brandon Sanderson - Ship of Magic by: Robin Hobb - D&D: Ghosts of Saltmarsh Josef is playing: - Baldur's Gate 3 - Mario Party: Jamboree - Everdell Don't forget, you can get bonus content by joining our Patreon! Find us on Twitter: @litround Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LitRoundTable Find us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thelitroundtable Art: Kris Easler: https://www.kriseasler.com/

Philippa reviews: The Poppy War by R F KuangA Serial Killer's Guide to Marriage by Asia Mackay. Deadfall by A K TurnerPlus Philippa does the Favourites book tag.10 Questions:1. A book you tell people is your favourite2. A book that is your guilty pleasure3. A book everyone loved but you didn't4. A book you read the fastest5. A book that deserves more hype6. A book that you reread the most7. A book that has your favourite characters 8. A book that made you cry9. A book you think everyone needs to read10. A book you wish everyone would give a shot even if it's out of their comfort zone(Book tag inspired by Larry on YouTube and their “Book Recommendation Tag” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today the SibNerds are talking about Chapters 8 & 9! This week we got to see how the other side lives when Rin visits Kitay's home while they're on break from the term. It was fun to see another side of the city—and to catch a glimpse of the Empress! And then the new term starts in a rush. Rin is learning how to meditate and use her powers. She's on her way to being a shaman! Next time we'll be discussing Chapters 10-12! Happy Reading!  Twitter: @litround Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LitRoundTable Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thelitroundtable Art: Kris Easler: https://www.kriseasler.com/

Today the SibNerds are talking about Chapters 6 & 7! We're finally learning about the quirky lore master—and so is Rin! Good thing, too, because without his help she wouldn't have done nearly as well in the trials. Maybe we should all start carrying pigs up a mountain. Next time we'll be discussing Chapters 8 & 9! Happy Reading!  Twitter: @litround Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LitRoundTable Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thelitroundtable Art: Kris Easler: https://www.kriseasler.com/

Over Christmas break, we were asked what D&D character sheets would look for the main characters in the new Lord of the Rings: War of the Rohirrim movie. So you know we had to make it a podcast episode! We haven't done an unpacking episode for War of the Rohirrim, so be aware there are spoilers ahead! How did we do with these character sheets? Would you make any changes? Join us for our Read Along of The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang! Anna is watching: - Klaus - Lady Bird - Sister Wives - Lord of the Rings: War of the Rohirrim - Gravity Falls - Star Wars: Skeleton Crew - Queer Eye - Star Wars: The Phantom Menace - Mufasa - Mary Poppins - Star Wars: Attack of the Clones Anna is reading: - The Poppy War by: R.F. Kuang - Witch Hat Atelier by: Kamome Shirahama - Dinner for Vampires by: Bethany Joy Lenz - Rural Diaries by: Hilarie Burton Morgan - Fat Chance, Charlie Vega by: Crystal Maldonado Anna is playing: - Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom - Happy Little Dinosaurs - Dominion - Extremely Loud Librarians - Mario Party: Jamboree Josef is watching: - Nosferatu - Critical Role, campaign 3 - Solo Leveling - Kaiju No. 8 - Lion King 1 and 1/2 Josef is reading: - The Poppy War by: R.F. Kuang - Frieren by: Kanehito Yamada - Solo Leveling by: Chugong - Royal Assassin by: Robin Hobb Josef is playing: - Baldur's Gate 3 - Magic the Gathering - Everdell Don't forget, you can get bonus content by joining our Patreon! Find us on Twitter: @litround Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LitRoundTable Find us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thelitroundtable Art: Kris Easler: https://www.kriseasler.com/

Today the SibNerds are talking about Chapters 4 & 5! Rin is adjusting to being a student—and she's coming up against difficult classes, difficult social situations, and puberty. Our girl is determined, knows what she wants, and is willing to sacrifice to get it. Next time we'll be discussing Chapters 6 & 7! Happy Reading!  Twitter: @litround Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LitRoundTable Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thelitroundtable Art: Kris Easler: https://www.kriseasler.com/

Today, on Hook of a Book, I review The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang! Instagram: @hookofabook Goodreads: Ellie Mano Email: hookofabookpodcast@gmail.com

Today the SibNerds are talking about Chapters 1 - 3! It's a new year and a new book! We're enthralled by the way that R.F. Kuang is pulling us into this story! We weren't quite expecting so much of an academy fantasy, but we're excited to see how it unfolds. Next time we'll be discussing Chapters 4 & 5! Happy Reading!   Twitter: @litround Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LitRoundTable Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thelitroundtable Art: Kris Easler: https://www.kriseasler.com/

Happy New Year, Brave New Teachers!

Beware, there be spoilers here! Today the SibNerds are talking all about season 2 of Arcane! The animation is top-tier. The storylines are compelling and gripping. It's so good! In this episode, we take a deep dive to unpack this new season on Netflix. We're not League of Legends players, so if you are and have insights, let us know! Join us for our next Read Along in January 2025—we'll be reading The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang! Josef is watching: - Arcane (Netflix) - What We Do in the Shadows (Hulu) - Dan Da Dan (Crunchyroll) - One Piece (Crunchyroll) - The Santa Clause (Disney+) Josef is reading: - Tress of the Emerald Sea by: Brandon Sanderson - True Crime stories (for class) - Royal Assassin by: Robin Hobb Josef is playing: - Baldur's Gate 3 (PS5) - Dragon Age: The Veilguard - Dungeons and Dragons Anna is watching: - A Biltmore Christmas (Netflix) - Piglet's Big Movie (Disney+) - The Great British Baking Show (Netflix) - We Live in Time - Arcane (Netflix) - Love, Death, & Robots (Netflix) - Martha (Netflix) - The Crown (Netflix) - Moana 2 - The Great British Baking Show Holiday (Netflix) - Sister Wives Anna is reading: - Tress of the Emerald Sea by: Brandon Sanderson - Zen and Gone by: Emily France - The Great Cat Massacre by: Robert Darnton Anna is playing: - Princess Peach: Showtime - Magic the Gathering - Township - Mario Party: Jamboree - 10 pennies (cards) - JackBox Games Don't forget, you can get bonus content by joining our Patreon! Find us on Twitter: @litround Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LitRoundTable Find us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thelitroundtable Art: Kris Easler: https://www.kriseasler.com/

In November, The Brattle invited bestselling author, cinephile, and Brattle regular Rebbeca Kuang to program a day of movies in conjunction with the release of a special collector's edition of her first novel, The Poppy War. That whole day of screenings sold out rapidly, so we invited her onto the podcast to share her thoughts on watching movies, how movies differ from novels, how movies impact an artist working in a different medium, and other topics with our listeners.

Today the SibNerds are talking about the end of the book! This week, we're along for the ride as Tress and her unlikely crew defeat the Sorceress of the Midnight Sea! We were glad that all of pirate friends were able to have their shining moment. We also had some really satisfying confirmations of our guesses—like the identity of Huck and the inspiration from The Princess Bride and Good Omens. What a joy this book was! Our Patrons have voted on our next read along! Join us Jan 2025 as we read The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang! Happy Reading!  Twitter: @litround Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LitRoundTable Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thelitroundtable Art: Kris Easler: https://www.kriseasler.com/

Today the SibNerds are talking about the first half of Part 6, chapters 54-59! This week, we're quickly approaching the climax of the story. Tress is preparing for her encounter with the Sorceress when she discovers Huck's secret. The SibNerds discuss their theories in the second half of this episode. Finish the book and join us next time to see how accurate our predictions were! Don't forget, our Patrons get to vote on our next read along! Here are your options: The Poppy War by: R. F. Kuang The Frugal Wizard's Handbook for Surviving Medieval England by: Brandon Sanderson Circe by: Madeline Miller Happy Reading!   Twitter: @litround Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LitRoundTable Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thelitroundtable Art: Kris Easler: https://www.kriseasler.com/    

International bestselling author Rebecca F. Kuang discusses her groundbreaking novel Yellowface and the future of storytelling at this exclusive Melbourne event.   Investigating diversity, racism and cultural appropriation with the thrilling pace of a Twitter meltdown, Rebecca F. Kuang's 2023 novel Yellowface captivated readers across literary and BookTok communities alike. In her only Melbourne event, Kuang discusses her successful career, plagiarism, privilege, and the state of the publishing industry with host Beverley Wang.  A New York Times and Sunday Times bestselling author, Kuang's previous works include the Poppy War trilogy and the dark academia novel Babel: An Arcane History, both of which garnered rave reviews. Yellowface is her fifth novel.  Hear from a literary trailblazer about why she won't write in the same genre twice and the overdue conversations she's ignited in the publishing world. This event was recorded on 12 March 2024 at Melbourne City Conference Centre. The official bookseller was Amplify Bookstore. Featured music is ‘frosty' by dozeoff.  Support the Wheeler Centre: https://www.wheelercentre.com/support-us/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today the SibNerds are talking about Chapters 44-53! This may be our favorite section so far! Tress is really starting to embrace that main character energy, and we are here for it! And the DRAGON!!!! Ahhhhh!!!! Next time read Chapters 54-59! Don't forget, our Patrons get to vote on our next read along! Here are your options: 1. The Poppy War by: R. F. Kuang 2. The Frugal Wizard's Handbook for Surviving Medieval England by: Brandon Sanderson 3. Circe by: Madeline Miller Happy Reading! Twitter: @litround  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LitRoundTable Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thelitroundtable Art: Kris Easler: https://www.kriseasler.com/

In this autumnal episode of Friends Talking Fantasy, Charles and Dylan dive into the perfect books to get you into those fall vibes. From spooky horrors to cozy fantasies, they explore the themes, settings, and characters that best capture the essence of the season. Whether you're looking for eerie tales like Christopher Buehlman's The Black Tongue Thief, a chilling Dracula retelling in A Dowry of Blood by S.T. Gibson, or heartwarming reads like A Long Way to a Small Angry Planet by Becky Chambers, this episode has a recommendation for every fall mood. Tune in for a celebration of all things fall, with fantasy books that pair perfectly with the crisp air and changing leaves.   Visit out website: https://www.theftfpodcast.com/    Books mentioned in this episode: 1. World War Z by Max Brooks 2. The Black Tongue Thief by Christopher Buehlman 3. Between Two Fires by Christopher Buehlman 4. A Dowry of Blood by S.T. Gibson 5. Evocation by S.T. Gibson 6. Fairytale by Stephen King 7. Gideon the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir 8. Monstrous by Marjorie Liu (illustrated by Sana Takeda) 9. The Bone Roots by Gabriela Houston 10. The Witcher series by Andrzej Sapkowski 11. Fury of the Gods by John Gwynne 12. The Shadow of the Gods by John Gwynne 13. The Autumn Republic by Brian McClellan 14. The Fall of Dragons by Miles Cameron 15. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss 16. Babel by R.F. Kuang 17. The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang 18. The Magicians by Lev Grossman 19. A Long Way to a Small Angry Planet by Becky Chambers 20. Legends and Lattes by Travis Baldree 21. The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman 22. Tigana by Guy Gavriel Kay  

In this bonus book club episode, Marisa Serafini (@SerafiniTV) and I delve into RF Kuang's final book in The Poppy War trilogy, called The Burning God. In this final chapter, after saving her nation of Nikan from foreign invaders and battling the evil Empress Su Daji in a brutal civil war, Fang Runin was betrayed by allies and left for dead. Despite her losses, Rin hasn't given up on those for whom she has sacrificed so much—the people of the southern provinces and especially Tikany, the village that is her home. Returning to her roots, Rin meets difficult challenges—and unexpected opportunities. While her new allies in the Southern Coalition leadership are sly and untrustworthy, Rin quickly realizes that the real power in Nikan lies with the millions of common people who thirst for vengeance and revere her as a goddess of salvation. Backed by the masses and her Southern Army, Rin will use every weapon to defeat the Dragon Republic, the colonizing Hesperians, and all who threaten the shamanic arts and their practitioners. As her power and influence grows, though, will she be strong enough to resist the Phoenix's intoxicating voice urging her to burn the world and everything in it? Join the conversation! Share your thoughts, queries, and viewpoints in the comments or connect with Marisa (@serafinitv) and me on social media. Thank you for tuning in, and we're eager to hear your thoughts on this captivating book! #bookclub #bookreview #rfkuang #burninggod #poppywar Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe! Yours truly, Phil Svitek Filmmaker, author, podcaster & 360 Creative Coach ⁠http://philsvitek.com⁠

In this bonus book club episode, Marisa Serafini (@SerafiniTV) and I delve into RF Kuang's follow-up to The Poppy War, called The Dragon Republic. In this sequel, the war is over. The war has just begun. Three times throughout its history, Nikan has fought for its survival in the bloody Poppy Wars. Though the third battle has just ended, shaman and warrior Rin cannot forget the atrocity she committed to save her people. Now she is on the run from her guilt, the opium addiction that holds her like a vice, and the murderous commands of the fiery Phoenix—the vengeful god who has blessed Rin with her fearsome power. Though she does not want to live, she refuses to die until she avenges the traitorous Empress who betrayed Rin's homeland to its enemies. Her only hope is to join forces with the powerful Dragon Warlord, who plots to conquer Nikan, unseat the Empress, and create a new republic. But neither the Empress nor the Dragon Warlord are what they seem. The more Rin witnesses, the more she fears her love for Nikan will force her to use the Phoenix's deadly power once more. Because there is nothing Rin won't sacrifice to save her country . . . and exact her vengeance. Join the conversation! Share your thoughts, queries, and viewpoints in the comments or connect with Marisa (@serafinitv) and me on social media. Thank you for tuning in, and we're eager to hear your thoughts on this captivating book! #bookclub #bookreview #elderrace Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe! Yours truly, Phil Svitek Filmmaker, author, podcaster & 360 Creative Coach ⁠http://philsvitek.com⁠

Welcome to Season 4, Episode 32! Do you know who the first Asian Pacific American Olympic champions were? We didn't know, so we researched, and are here to share it with you! In this episode we talk about the lives of Duke Kahanamoku, Vicki Manalo Draves, and Sammy Lee, our first Asian Pacific American Olympic heroes.  It's amazing what each of them overcame to be able to represent the United States in the Olympic Games… and not just represent but become champions. Their accomplishments should be part of the curriculum in every school in the U.S. because in so many ways, they embody what we think of when we talk about the American Dream. To learn more, here are some media to help you: Waterman, a film about Duke Kahanamoku that was directed by Isaac Halasima Waterman: The Life and Times of Duke Kahanamoku by David Davis  Surfer of the Century: The Life of Duke Kahanamoku by Ellen Crowe Sixteen Years in Sixteen Seconds: The Sammy Lee Story by Paula Yoo  The Story of Olympic Diver Sammy Lee by Paula Yoo Changing the Game: Asian Pacific American Female Athletes (includes a section on Vicki Manalo Draves) by Mia Wenjen In our recurring segment, we talk about what we've been reading, and Ted shares some thoughts about The Poppy War trilogy by R.F. Kuang.  If you like what we do, please share, follow, and like us in your podcast directory of choice or on Instagram @AAHistory101. For previous episodes and resources, please visit our site at https://asianamericanhistory101.libsyn.com or social media links at http://castpie.com/AAHistory101. If you have any questions, comments or suggestions, email us at info@aahistory101.com. Segments 00:25 Asian Pacific American Olympic Update 06:51 The History of Asian Pacific American Olympic Champions: Duke Kahanamoku, Vicki Manalo Draves, and Sammy Lee 30:23 What are We Reading? The Poppy War Trilogy by R.F. Kuang

Gabriella Buba is a writer and chemical engineer who likes to keep explosive pyrophoric materials safely contained in pressure vessels or between the covers of her books. She writes adult romantic fantasy for bold, bi, brown women who deserve to see their stories centered. SAINTS OF STORM AND SORROW, book one in the Stormbringer Saga, is her debut novel. In this fiercely imaginative Filipino-inspired fantasy debut, a bisexual nun hiding a goddess-given gift is unwillingly transformed into a lightning rod for her people's struggle against colonization. Perfect for fans of lush fantasy full of morally ambiguous characters, including The Poppy War and The Jasmine Throne. #pridemonth #lgbtqbooks #titanbooks #fantasy

"An act of translation is always an act of betrayal." This idea, and the questions it inspires, are central to author Rebecca or RF Kuang's 2022 novel, Babel: Or the Necessity of Violence: An Arcane History of the Oxford Translators' Revolution. As the title promises, the book also explores the nature of revolution and the "necessity of violence," in addition to those complex questions surrounding the art of translation. This hour, we revisit our conversation with the author, which was focused on the award-winning book, during an event organized by local bookseller RJ Julia. On the importance of student revolutions, Kuang reflects, "The student's weakness is precisely his allure. The fact that the student is so naïve and doesn't have the jadedness of somebody who's been through more; the fact that students are dreamers, that they are romantic idealists; that kind of hope, that kind of ability to imagine an alternate future is beautiful and it matters and I hope we keep seeing that." GUESTS: RF or Rebecca Kuang: Award-winning author of the Poppy War trilogy, Babel: An Arcane History, Yellowface, and Katabasis (forthcoming). She has an MPhil in Chinese Studies from Cambridge and an MSc in Contemporary Chinese Studies from Oxford; she is now pursuing a PhD in East Asian Languages and Literatures at Yale. Cat Pastor contributed to this episode which originally aired December 18, 2023.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Having both read R.F. Kuang's Poppy War Trilogy (Jim finally caught up with Zach), our duo got together for a full spoil breakdown and discussion of these three books. This is ONLY for those who have read the trilogy, or who don't care about spoilers, as we spoil the heck out of these books. Want to purchase books/media mentioned in this video? The Poppy War Trilogy: https://www.amazon.com/Complete-Poppy-War-Trilogy-Republic-ebook/dp/B0BXLM3JSF Red Rising Series: https://www.amazon.com/Rising-Collection-Pierce-Golden-Morning/dp/9123881453 Babel: https://www.amazon.com/Babel-Necessity-Violence-Translators-Revolution/dp/0063021420 Ways to connect with us: Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/FantasyForTheAges Follow Jim/Father on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/13848336-jim-scriven Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/jMWyVJ6qKk Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Fantasy4theAges Follow us on Instagram: fantasy_for_the_ages Follow us on Mastodon: @FantasyForTheAges@nerdculture.de Email us: FantasyForTheAges@gmail.com Check out our merch: https://www.newcreationsbyjen.com/collections/fantasyfortheages Jim's Microphone: Blue Yeti https://tinyurl.com/3shpvhb4 Jim's Camera: Razer Kito Pro https://tinyurl.com/c873tc2n ———————————————————————————— Music and video elements licensed under Envato Elements: https://elements.envato.com/ #FantasyForTheAges #readingrecommendations #fantasy #grimdark #PoppyWar #SFF #booktube #booktuber #ThePoppyWar Join this channel to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4f0U6Xmwb9G-4yy9faUuwA/join

In Ep. 167, Catherine (@GilmoreGuide) and I are circling back to 2018 in the book world with a special retrospective episode!  We share big bookish highlights for that year, including book news, award winners, and what was going on in the world outside of reading. We also talk about our own 2018 reading and our favorite 2018 releases.  Plus, you'll hear listener-submitted favorites!  This episode is overflowing with great backlist titles to add to your TBR!   This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Highlights The big news going on outside the book world. Book stories and trends that dominated 2018. Looking back at 2018, we couldn't help but say, “If only we knew what was coming!” The books that have had staying power.⁠ Titles that now are comps for SO MANY books!⁠ We explore the early days of this new wave of celebrity book clubs. Our personal 2018 reading stats.⁠ Listener-submitted favorites from 2018.⁠ Circling Back to 2018 in Books [2:05] The World Beyond Books Spare by Prince Harry | Amazon | Bookshop.org [5:12] A Game of Thrones (A Song of Ice and Fire, #1) by George R. R. Martin | Amazon | Bookshop.org [5:45] The Walking Dead (Compendium One) by writer Robert Kirkman and artist Tony Moore | Amazon | Bookshop.org [5:54] The Book Industry Becoming by Michelle Obama | Amazon | Bookshop.org [9:55] Magnolia Table by Joanna Gaines | Amazon | Bookshop.org [10:46] The Meltdown (Diary of a Wimpy Kid Book 13) by Jeff Kinney | Amazon | Bookshop.org [10:50] Girl, Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis | Amazon | Bookshop.org [10:54] Fire and Fury by Michael Wolff | Amazon | Bookshop.org [10:56] Wonder by R. J. Palacio | Amazon | Bookshop.org [11:12] Milk and Honey by Rupi Kaur | Amazon | Bookshop.org [11:16] The President Is Missing by James Patterson and Bill Clinton | Amazon | Bookshop.org [11:42] Book Trends Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman | Amazon | Bookshop.org [14:30] Something in the Water by Catherine Steadman | Amazon | Bookshop.org[14:34] Next Year in Havana by Chanel Cleeton | Amazon | Bookshop.org [14:36] Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens | Amazon | Bookshop.org [14:38] Magnolia Table by Joanna Gaines | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:27] Girl, Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:34] You Are a Badass® by Jen Sincero | Amazon | Bookshop.org [17:59] 12 Rules for Life by Jordan B. Peterson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [18:08] The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson | Amazon | Bookshop.org[18:14] Big Books of 2018 Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan | Amazon | Bookshop.org [20:46] The Reckoning by John Grisham | Amazon | Bookshop.org [20:58] The President Is Missing by James Patterson and Bill Clinton | Amazon | Bookshop.org  [21:05] Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens | Amazon | Bookshop.org [21:56] There There by Tommy Orange | Amazon | Bookshop.org [23:25] The Wife Between Us by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen | Amazon | Bookshop.org [23:27] Tell Me Lies by Carola Lovering | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:16] Normal People by Sally Rooney | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:20] Friday Night Lights by H. G. Bissinger | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:21] Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty | Amazon | Bookshop.org [24:33] Verity by Colleen Hoover | Amazon | Bookshop.org [25:30] Circe by Madeline Miller | Amazon | Bookshop.org [26:08] The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller | Amazon | Bookshop.org [26:32] The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah | Amazon | Bookshop.org [27:36] The Great Believers by Rebecca Makkai | Amazon | Bookshop.org [28:07] I Have Some Questions for You by Rebecca Makkai | Amazon | Bookshop.org[28:19] Becoming by Michelle Obama | Amazon | Bookshop.org [28:36] Spare by Prince Harry | Amazon | Bookshop.org [29:11] Educated by Tara Westover | Amazon | Bookshop.org [29:31] Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:18] Atomic Habits by James Clear | Amazon | Bookshop.org [31:11] I'll Be Gone in the Dark by Michelle McNamara | Amazon | Bookshop.org[31:51] Wandering Stars Tommy Orange | Amazon | Bookshop.org [32:53] The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:12] The Poppy War by R. F. Kuang | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:37] Katabasis by R. F. Kuang (expected publication: August 15, 2025) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:50] Less by Andrew Sean Greer | Amazon | Bookshop.org [34:54] The Friend by Sigrid Nunez | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:02] Milkman by Anna Burns | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:09] Bluebird, Bluebird by Attica Locke | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:22] The Stone Sky (The Broken Earth Book 3) by N. K. Jemisin | Amazon | Bookshop.org [36:04] Our Top Books of 2018 Circe by Madeline Miller | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:46] An American Marriage by Tayari Jones | Amazon | Bookshop.org [42:55] The Line that Held Us by David Joy | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:30] The Pasha of Cuisine by Saygin Ersin | Amazon | Bookshop.org [43:55] Only Child by Rhiannon Navin | Amazon | Bookshop.org [44:32] Anatomy of a Miracle by Jonathan Miles | Amazon | Bookshop.org [44:54] Song of a Captive Bird by Jasmin Darznik | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:00] There There by Tommy Orange | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:04] She Would Be King by Wayétu Moore | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:06] Tin Man by Sarah Winman | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:09] Waiting for Eden by Elliot Ackerman | Amazon | Bookshop.org [45:42] A Ladder to the Sky by John Boyne | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:33] I Am, I Am, I Am by Maggie O'Farrell | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:46] Tell Me More by Kelly Corrigan | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:23] The Ensemble by Aja Gabel | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:36] The Female Persuasion by Meg Wolitzer | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:46] The Great Believers by Rebecca Makkai | Amazon | Bookshop.org [47:55] Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:00] You Think It, I'll Say It by Curtis Sittenfeld | Amazon | Bookshop.org [48:31] Listeners' Top Books of 2018 The Great Believers by Rebecca Makkai | Amazon | Bookshop.org [49:09] A Place for Us by Fatima Farheen Mirza | Amazon | Bookshop.org [50:29] Educated by Tara Westover | Amazon | Bookshop.org [51:46] The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah | Amazon | Bookshop.org [51:54] An American Marriage by Tayari Jones | Amazon | Bookshop.org [51:58] Circe by Madeline Miller | Amazon | Bookshop.org [52:01] The Sun Does Shine by Anthony Ray Hinton | Amazon | Bookshop.org [52:04] Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson | Amazon | Bookshop.org [52:26] Other Links Time Magazine | What to Know About the Controversy Surrounding Where the Crawdads Sing by Annabel Gutterman, July 2022

"An act of translation is always an act of betrayal." This idea, and the questions it inspires, are central to author Rebecca or RF Kuang's 2022 novel, Babel: Or the Necessity of Violence: An Arcane History of the Oxford Translators' Revolution. As the title promises, the book also explores the nature of revolution and the "necessity of violence," in addition to those complex questions surrounding the art of translation. This hour, we revisit our conversation with the author, which was focused on the award-winning book, during an event organized by local bookseller RJ Julia. On the importance of student revolutions, Kuang reflects, "The student's weakness is precisely his allure. The fact that the student is so naïve and doesn't have the jadedness of somebody who's been through more; the fact that students are dreamers, that they are romantic idealists; that kind of hope, that kind of ability to imagine an alternate future is beautiful and it matters and I hope we keep seeing that." GUESTS: RF or Rebecca Kuang: Award-winning author of the Poppy War trilogy, Babel: An Arcane History, Yellowface, and Katabasis (forthcoming). She has an MPhil in Chinese Studies from Cambridge and an MSc in Contemporary Chinese Studies from Oxford; she is now pursuing a PhD in East Asian Languages and Literatures at Yale. Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode. This episode originally aired December 18, 2023.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nathan spoke with R. F. Kuang, author of the epic historical fantasy trilogy The Poppy War, as well as the 2022 novel, also a work of historical fantasy called Babel: Or the Necessity of Violence: An Arcane History of the Oxford Translators' Revolution. R. F. Kuang's latest novel is Yellowface. It's the story of June Hayward and Athena Liu, a pair of writers on the rise—one of whom is rising significantly faster than the other, until a fatal freak accident leaves the survivor holding an unfinished manuscript and facing a very tempting proposition.  R. F. Kuang on seeing herself in Yellowface

Rebecca F. Kuang just might change the way you think about fantasy and science fiction. Known for her best-selling books Babel and The Poppy War trilogy, Kuang combines a unique blend of historical richness and imaginative storytelling. At just 27, she's already published five novels, and her compulsion to write has not abated even as she's pursued advanced degrees at Oxford, Cambridge, and now Yale. Her latest book, Yellowface, was one of Tyler's favorites in 2023. She sat down with Tyler to discuss Chinese science-fiction, which work of fantasy she hopes will still be read in fifty years, which novels use footnotes well, how she'd change book publishing, what she enjoys about book tours, what to make of which Chinese fiction is read in the West, the differences between the three volumes of The Three Body Problem, what surprised her on her recent Taiwan trip, why novels are rarely co-authored, how debate influences her writing, how she'll balance writing fiction with her academic pursuits, where she'll travel next, and more. Read a full transcript enhanced with helpful links, or watch the full video.  Sign up for our Live Event in Miami with Peter Thiel.  Recorded September 15th, 2023. Other ways to connect Follow us on X and Instagram Follow Tyler on X Follow Rebecca on X Sign up for our newsletter Join our Discord Email us: cowenconvos@mercatus.gmu.edu Learn more about Conversations with Tyler and other Mercatus Center podcasts here.

Al and Codey talk about some ideas they have for new cottagecore games Timings 00:00:00: Theme Tune 00:00:30: Intro 00:05:04: What Have We Been Up To 00:13:29: News 00:27:56: Cottagecore Game Ideas 01:12:59: Outro Links Turnip Boy Robs a Bank on Steam Turnip Boy Robs a Bank on Switch Cult of the Lamb “Sins of the Flesh” Update Meetlight Alpha Info Chill Town Beta Info Rusty’s Retirement Mac Confirmation Immortal Life on Steam Contact Al on Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheScotBot Al on Mastodon: https://mastodon.scot/@TheScotBot Email Us: https://harvestseason.club/contact/ Transcript (0:00:30) Al: Hello farmers, and welcome to another episode of The Harvest Season. My name is Al, (0:00:38) Codey: And my name is Cody. (0:00:39) Al: and we are here today to talk about cartridge core games. (0:00:46) Al: Cody, it’s been so long. It’s been a whole week since we talked. (0:00:51) Codey: A whole week, yeah. And this was a surprise. I didn’t realize I was gonna be on. I was like, (0:00:58) Al: I don’t think we need to talk about the fact that who is on this podcast has changed three different times. (0:00:59) Codey: oh man, I’m not recording for a while. And now, now I… (0:01:08) Codey: I mean, it’s just, yeah, I guess it’s just the fact of my travel plans got messed up. I was supposed to be home right now. (0:01:20) Codey: But for those in the United States, you will know that there is a huge winter storm happening back to back to back. There’s much weather. (0:01:28) Al: There is weather. Weather is happening. January weather. (0:01:30) Codey: There’s so much weather. And I was like, not… my flights got canceled like three times and I was just like, ah. (0:01:38) Codey: No, I’m just gonna stop. I’m just gonna stop trying to go home now. Which ended up working out because the whole… one of the whole reasons I was trying to go was because my grandma was supposed to have shoulder surgery and I was gonna like help out. (0:01:50) Codey: But then literally the day before I left, I was supposed to leave. That got scheduled to February and it was like not when I was gonna be there. So it works out because I can now make sure that I’m there for that. (0:02:02) Codey: But it just was frustrating because I was supposed to be on vacation. (0:02:08) Codey: But such is life and… yeah. (0:02:12) Codey: How is weather where you are? (0:02:14) Al: Yeah, it’s cold, but it’s not too cold. (0:02:20) Codey: Oh man, it heckin’… it heckin’ whimdy here. (0:02:20) Al: It’s just kind of standard winter cold for here. (0:02:26) Al: Yeah, I mean, it’s all, I mean, I’m coastal, so it’s always windy here, right? (0:02:30) Al: But which I think is part of the reason why it feels colder. (0:02:30) Codey: Ma’am. (0:02:35) Al: Because it’s like, it’s only minus one Celsius here, which is… (0:02:39) Codey: It’s like 30. (0:02:40) Al: - Yeah, almost exactly, but the wind, (0:02:44) Al: the wind gets you. (0:02:45) Codey: I have a european roommate. I know how to do these conversions. (0:02:51) Al: There are a few I know off the top of my head. (0:02:53) Al: That should have been one, because of course, (0:02:55) Codey: It’s fine. (0:02:56) Al: I knew that we should have been one, (0:02:59) Al: but for some reason, my brain, not worky. (0:03:04) Al: So. (0:03:04) Codey: Oh, I also did want to mention, uh, listeners, if you have any interest in listening to (0:03:12) Codey: an episode about, uh, the best version number systems. I was talking to my partner about it the other day and he like mentioned this very specific version number system and I was like, (0:03:28) Codey: Oh my gosh, we could make a whole episode out of it. (0:03:31) Al: Well, of course we could. It doesn’t mean we need to. (0:03:34) Al: Presumably it was SemVer he was talking about, semantic questioning. (0:03:34) Codey: But yeah, he was talking about some bear. So yeah, uh, listeners, if you want to hear about that. (0:03:37) Al: Yeah. (0:03:41) Al: The problem is that SemVer only really makes sense for things with interfaces, (0:03:48) Al: which, you know, user facing software is not, and people use it for that. (0:03:51) Al: But then it doesn’t really map in the exact same way. (0:03:53) Al: So you’re like, well, at what point are we going to do this? (0:03:56) Al: Because the whole point of that is that you only change a major version number when there’s something backwards incompatible. (0:04:01) Al: It doesn’t make any sense when you’re not an interface. (0:04:02) Codey: Well, that’s why we need to devise a cottage ver. Cottage semver. (0:04:05) Al: Are we doing it? (0:04:08) Al: Are we doing it or we just or we just don’t? (0:04:11) Codey: Caught semver. (0:04:12) Al: Well, I mean, I’ve already done it, right? (0:04:14) Al: I’ve said you just have two numbers, one when you’re adding new stuff, (0:04:17) Al: one when you’re adding when you’re fixing bugs. (0:04:19) Al: That’s it done. You don’t need any more. (0:04:20) Codey: Like one for content one for patch (0:04:22) Al: Don’t. Yeah, that’s all you need. (0:04:24) Al: You don’t need any more. Two numbers. (0:04:25) Codey: Okay, but we could definitely get into this in an episode (0:04:27) Al: No, that’s it. That’s it. We’re done. (0:04:30) Codey: listeners if you really want to You [laughing] (0:04:31) Al: Transcripts for this podcast are (0:04:34) Al: available in the show notes and on the website five minutes in. (0:04:38) Al: So, you know, as useful as that is this episode, we’re going to talk about some ideas that we’ve had for what we want people to make Cottagecore games off. (0:04:48) Codey: Mm-hmm. (0:04:48) Al: So and then we’re going to argue about them, maybe. (0:04:52) Al: I don’t know. We’ll see. (0:04:54) Al: We so before that, we’ve got a bunch of news. (0:04:59) Al: I’m then first of all by. (0:05:01) Al: Not for bob, wording segways. (0:05:03) Codey: Mm-hmm. Mm-hmm. (0:05:05) Al: But first of all, Cody, what have you been up to? (0:05:08) Codey: I have been (0:05:12) Codey: Playing I’m still playing coral island (0:05:15) Codey: Still enjoying that but I was also am also playing Palia And so I was playing a lot of coral island because I was home and had my Xbox and I could play it And I knew that when I went on vacation (0:05:27) Codey: Hot I wasn’t gonna be able to play it because I don’t bring my Xbox on vacation (0:05:33) Codey: I am bringing my switch and so I was like, oh I can play so much Palia on my vacation But now vacation is kind of stalled, but I don’t know I’m still probably gonna be playing a decent amount of Palia here in the next few weeks But I’ve also been reading a lot of books. So I (0:05:52) Codey: Got into The Poppy War series by RF Kwang. I picked up some Joe Abercrombie books. These are all fantasy books I’m really trying to like pull out the fantasy (0:06:04) Codey: listeners here like come at me with your book recommendations because I freaking love them and then I (0:06:10) Codey: Finally caved and bought the second book in the fourth wing series iron flame (0:06:15) Codey: Because I read fourth wing. It was okay, but I do (0:06:24) Codey: So But there’s like a 40-week wait for my library and I found one (0:06:31) Codey: for pretty cheap, so I finally (0:06:33) Codey: just caved and bought that. So I have a giant stack of books that were for vacation. (0:06:39) Codey: So now I just have a giant stack of books waiting for when I can read them. (0:06:44) Codey: But yeah, so listeners hit me with those fantasy, fantasy wrecks on on the slack. I do love some fantasy books. (0:06:52) Al: Well, well, here’s a fun thing. (0:06:54) Al: I bet you weren’t expecting me to have some actual stuff on books. (0:06:57) Al: I don’t have not been reading, don’t worry. (0:06:59) Al: But you mentioned Iron Flame and I was like, oh, that is the book that I bought (0:07:04) Al: my sister for Christmas. So there you go. (0:07:05) Codey: Oh, yeah, there you go. (0:07:07) Al: Because it was on her wish list. (0:07:10) Codey: I mean, you might know some of the books. (0:07:12) Codey: So my partner, I’m in his apartment right now, and he has a book that was called like, (0:07:17) Codey: let me just find the picture of it, but it was really stupid. (0:07:19) Codey: And then he has another one here. (0:07:21) Codey: This is his bedside reading. (0:07:23) Codey: The Linux programming interface. (0:07:26) Al: Oh my word, what an arid. (0:07:29) Codey: Oh, and domain design. (0:07:31) Codey: But there was this one that was so funny. (0:07:36) Codey: It was… (0:07:39) Codey: Oh, I also yesterday had, I’m in New York City, (0:07:42) Codey: and I had a milkshake that had a whole ass piece of cake on top. (0:07:46) Codey: It was so goofy. (0:07:48) Codey: Made sense why it was $15. (0:07:50) Codey: Okay, the book is called Data Design for Mere Mortals. (0:07:54) Codey: Database Design for Mere Mortals. (0:07:56) Codey: So stupid. (0:07:57) Codey: Anyway, that seems like the kind of books that you would read out. (0:07:58) Al: Well, sure, in theory, like when I was in uni, I had to read a whole bunch of books like that, but I didn’t. I bought them and then I sold them. It’s just not like I don’t, (0:08:07) Codey: Okay, okay, that’s fair (0:08:13) Al: I’m not going to learn by reading paper about how these things, it’s just, it’s not how it works for me. (0:08:16) Codey: Mm-hmm. That’s fair. Yeah. Well, he said that he was going to be selling the database design from your mortals book. That wasn’t great. So don’t get that if you are a programmer. (0:08:26) Al: Well, you have reminded me just before I go on to what I’ve done, I was reminded of, (0:08:28) Codey: What about you, Al? What have you been up to? (0:08:34) Al: so you mentioned Coral Island, I had some feedback from John, listener of the podcast, (0:08:36) Codey: - Yeah. (0:08:40) Al: my brother-in-law, who we had been mentioning about the weirdness of how Coral Island kind of stops at some point, and he wanted to point out that not of the missing giant seems okay, it would be weird if they decided to add that later and had to shoehorn it in, but also I don’t think you need to resolve every single storyline, (0:08:50) Codey: Okay, yeah (0:09:10) Codey: Mm-hmm. (0:09:14) Codey: Yeah. (0:09:14) Al: which I think is a fair point. What I replied to him was, “Yeah, that’s fair. I think I’m just a bit more miffed about it because of the bug with the quest.” That in and of itself (0:09:24) Codey: Yeah. (0:09:26) Al: was quite annoying. So that’s a fair point. I take that on board. Not all storylines need to be 100% resolved. That is totally fair. (0:09:36) Codey: Mm-hmm. True. Well, okay, and now what have you been playing? (0:09:40) Al: So basically just Pokémon. There is a game I’m meant to be playing for the podcast, but we delayed that episode because I’m really bad sometimes at playing games. So it got to Friday and I’m like “I’ve played 15 minutes of this game, can we delay this episode?” (0:09:56) Al: I’ve not been playing that, I have been playing Pokemon, because the epilogue came out this week, so I’ve played that. (0:10:04) Codey: Is that sword in Scarlet the Violet? (0:10:06) Al: Yes, yeah, so it’s the kind of extra random bit of story at the end after the two DLCs. (0:10:08) Codey: OK. (0:10:14) Al: So yeah, I enjoyed it, it’s not a huge thing, if you’re paying attention, it’ll take you like an hour and a half, two hours. If you’re zooming through (0:10:24) Codey: Mm-hmm. (0:10:26) Codey: Hmm. (0:10:26) Al: it, you can get it done in like 40 minutes. But it was a fun little extra thing. So I’ve played that on both games. And now I’ve done my regular thing of remembering that my Pokemon living decks with all the forms, I’ve not completed all of the forms. So I’m doing some more of that. And I’m currently getting really annoyed trying to find an aqua Aldi and Taurus, (0:10:28) Codey: Mm-hmm. (0:10:52) Al: they’re such a small… what’s the word… (0:10:56) Codey: drop rate? Yeah. (0:10:56) Al: Spawn rate. Yeah. So anyway, that’s fun. I enjoy it. Whatever. (0:11:03) Al: And then also I have watched… so I did my regular one month of Netflix to watch everything that’s on it. (0:11:11) Codey: Okay, yep (0:11:12) Al: And so I’ve watched a bunch of things. I’ve watched Wednesday and I watched One Piece, the live action One Piece. (0:11:19) Al: And I watched the new season of Sonic Prime and there’s a couple other things I want to watch as well. (0:11:25) Al: So yeah, I’ve been in. (0:11:26) Al: Consuming a lot of that of stuff that’s come out in the last year or two. (0:11:28) Codey: Mm-hmm. (0:11:31) Al: And but I haven’t watched it because I didn’t have Netflix at the time. (0:11:34) Codey: Cool. Uh, yeah, I really liked Wednesday, um… (0:11:39) Codey: I didn’t… I’m not… I didn’t… I haven’t watched One Piece, and part of me wants to not watch the live-action because then what if I then want to get into the anime? (0:11:45) Al: What about it? (0:11:49) Codey: You know… (0:11:51) Codey: That’s a commitment. (0:11:51) Al: Well, yeah, but my point is like, I don’t… (0:11:56) Al: Oh, you mean, what if watching the live action makes you want to watch the anime? (0:11:59) Codey: Yes. (0:12:00) Al: I don’t think it will. (0:12:03) Al: And equally, I think that from what I can gather, the live action first series of the live action covers like the first 500 episodes or something insane of the anime. (0:12:12) Codey: Oh, yeah. (0:12:15) Al: Just there’s so much, like, you know what animes are like, right? (0:12:20) Al: They pad things out so much and there’s so many filler episodes. (0:12:23) Al: I might be a little bit exaggerating with 500, but certainly it was like, it was a lot of the episodes it covers with the first 10 episodes of the live action. (0:12:33) Al: So if they keep going with that, which they’ve said they’re doing a second season so far, (0:12:37) Al: it’s Netflix, so you never know. (0:12:40) Al: I suspect they would catch up pretty quickly. (0:12:44) Al: So. (0:12:45) Al: Yeah. I enjoyed it. I thought it was good fun. (0:12:49) Al: It is not at all what I expected it to be. (0:12:51) Al: I don’t know why I expected it to be, but I didn’t expect it to be Pirates. (0:12:54) Al: I didn’t know it was about… It’s about pirates. (0:12:56) Codey: You didn’t know one piece was a wildfire. (0:12:56) Al: Did you know One Piece is about pirates? (0:13:00) Al: Why would I know it was about pirates? (0:13:02) Al: I’ve never watched or read any One Piece. (0:13:04) Al: Why would I know it’s about pirates? (0:13:04) Codey: Okay, I mean I just I’ve not watched or seen any I’ve just I just have a roommate that really likes anime. (0:13:14) Al: Yeah, I have never had a conversation about One Piece that isn’t just “Oh, you’re going to watch One Piece? (0:13:21) Al: Haha, no, it’s very long.” (0:13:22) Codey: Okay, okay. Yeah, no, it’s about pirates. (0:13:28) Codey: Yeah, cool. (0:13:28) Al: So I enjoyed that. (0:13:30) Al: Shall we talk about some news? (0:13:34) Al: Turn it boy, Rob’s a bank. (0:13:36) Al: I don’t know when they announced that when this game was coming out, (0:13:39) Al: because apparently it’s coming out on Thursday. (0:13:43) Codey: - Mm-hmm, mm-hmm, the day after this comes out, right? (0:13:44) Al: No, yeah, Thursday. (0:13:46) Al: So, yes, yes. (0:13:49) Al: So I don’t know when they announced that, but apparently they did. (0:13:53) Codey: Mm-hmm. (0:13:53) Al: And I’ve pre-ordered it on Switch. (0:13:57) Al: So there we go. (0:13:58) Codey: You excited? (0:13:59) Al: Oh, yeah, loved the first game. (0:14:00) Codey: You excited to rob a bank? (0:14:01) Al: It was fantastic. (0:14:03) Al: Absolutely. (0:14:03) Al: And I mean, the first game wasn’t really cottage core and it wasn’t really farming. (0:14:08) Al: You farm like you grow plants to use as a sword, (0:14:13) Al: which is about as far as the farming goes, and it’s very much not cottage core. (0:14:18) Al: But I enjoyed it nonetheless. (0:14:19) Al: This game, even less cottage core. (0:14:22) Al: I suspect because you’re robbing a bank. (0:14:26) Al: So yeah. (0:14:28) Al: I don’t know, playing fast and loose with the term “cottage core” here. (0:14:29) Codey: Well, you still gotta cover it, ‘cause you still gotta cover it, because we gotta know. (0:14:34) Al: Absolutely. Of course. Of course. (0:14:35) Codey: We need the deets, so. (0:14:39) Al: So there we go. That’s a thing. (0:14:40) Codey: Very exciting. (0:14:42) Codey: Mm-hmm. (0:14:44) Codey: No. (0:14:45) Codey: No. (0:14:45) Al: Did you play the first? Well, the first is currently on sale on Steam. 66% off. (0:14:52) Codey: That’s crazy. Is it part of the communism? No, capitalism. (0:14:57) Al: Yeah, yeah, I saw someone. (0:14:58) Al: Post it like, “Oh, it’s capitalism sale, isn’t that just all sales?” (0:15:04) Codey: Yeah. (0:15:04) Al: Capitalism and Economy Fest, that’s what it’s called. (0:15:06) Codey: Yep. (0:15:08) Codey: Which will be done by the time the podcast comes out. (0:15:10) Codey: Sorry, y’all. (0:15:12) Codey: But I saw Parkasaurus was on it. (0:15:14) Codey: I was like, ooh. (0:15:15) Al: Park gazares. It looks like it’s also- (0:15:16) Codey: But… (0:15:18) Codey: Well, I have very little money in the world. (0:15:23) Codey: Especially because I just had to reschedule something. (0:15:26) Codey: I like… (0:15:27) Al: Turn it by. (0:15:28) Codey: Turn it boy. (0:15:30) Codey: like, uh, make planning my flights like so (0:15:34) Codey: many months in advance, so you, so it’s super, super cheap, but I am now having to reschedule to like less than a month and now I’m, I’m grumpy, but it’s fine. Turn it boy. Whoo. (0:15:36) Al: Mm. (0:15:41) Al: Stress. (0:15:46) Al: Pelt of the Lamb are releasing their Sins of the Flesh update. (0:15:54) Al: So we’re going to be nice and careful with this, (0:15:57) Al: because this is generally a family-friendly podcast. (0:16:00) Codey: Well it’s like in Pokemon when you breed, when you have eggs, because they are eggs. (0:16:01) Al: There is procreation now coming to the game. (0:16:05) Al: And, um… (0:16:06) Al: Yeah, exactly. (0:16:11) Al: Or in The Sims, where the babies happen. (0:16:14) Codey: Yeah you just, you just adopt them. (0:16:18) Codey: This is fine. (0:16:20) Codey: Yeah so you can now have that, they have this like nudity which is really cute because they they have just like a little leaf, which I thought was… (0:16:30) Codey: super cute. They have new progression systems, so some of your followers can be kind of beefier, I guess, and there’s more benefits for them. (0:16:44) Codey: One benefit in particular that I thought you were going to like, Al, is the improved automation. (0:16:49) Codey: So there’s now a janitor station and storage structures that you can build, and it allows helps so that your followers can take better care of themselves. (0:16:57) Codey: so that when you come back you’re not coming back to… (0:17:00) Codey: chaos. There’s a new gun that helps you fight heretics. You can build… I don’t remember what it was called but it’s like a… I think it’s the tailor and that allows your followers to have better fashion. And then my favorite part was on the Twitter link which will be linked in the show notes about this. (0:17:26) Codey: the Among Us Twitter responded with finally. (0:17:30) Al: Yeah, that’s just asking for them to be asked why they don’t have (0:17:31) Codey: It’s just like, why? (0:17:41) Codey: Like why, why Among Us doesn’t have nudity? (0:17:45) Codey: Okay. Are they people? (0:17:45) Al: Anyway, I noticed something funny. They have a URL shortener, their own URL shortener called cult.link. I just thought it was fun. (0:18:00) Codey: Very cute. I still really want to play this game, and I still haven’t played it yet. (0:18:06) Codey: So, have we done a second harvest on it? (0:18:10) Al: “Yes, I want to say that was me,” he says, searching. (0:18:14) Codey: Okay. (0:18:17) Codey: He says with a question mark at the end. (0:18:18) Al: Yeah, yeah, we did. Me and Bev did a second harvest on it. (0:18:22) Codey: Okay, well maybe I maybe I need (0:18:24) Al: And I think it was Kevin and Kelly who did the first. (0:18:26) Codey: Kelly. (0:18:30) Codey: Well, maybe I need to do, maybe me and Johnny will do the sins of the flesh update. (0:18:38) Al: Well, why not? I think we’re like, we’re very soon going to have our fifth episode on Stardew Valley, so. (0:18:40) Codey: Yeah. (0:18:44) Codey: Yeah. (0:18:46) Codey: It happens. (0:18:46) Codey: So, because I do really want to work with you. (0:18:49) Al: Fair enough. Meatlight, which still hate the name, they have delayed their alpha, which was meant to be coming out at the end of the year. (0:18:59) Al: It’s now coming summer 2024, with apparently the beta coming a month later. I highly doubt there’s going to be a month. (0:19:02) Codey: That’s what they said, but yeah, I also have some doubts. (0:19:08) Al: Between the alpha and the beta, that is not going to happen. But we’ll see. So that’s on Kickstarter. (0:19:19) Al: If you’re an alpha or a beta backer, you’ll get the information. (0:19:24) Codey: They also said that they’re going to reduce the amount of updates that they try and post because they want to be able to focus on development. (0:19:31) Codey: So they’re only planning to release updates every three months. (0:19:35) Codey: And they do have in this update that they have on Kickstarter right now, they have some information about new music, some information about one of the villages, some screenshots of a new room of a romance character, etc. (0:19:48) Codey: So stuff to look at to look forward to the alpha when it comes out in the summer. (0:19:56) Al: Chill Town have released their beta. (0:19:58) Al: So again, if you’re a Kickstarter of the beta level, which I’m not. (0:20:04) Al: I just did the base one because I know I’ve got too many games to play as it is. (0:20:08) Al: I don’t need to be adding on alphas and betas to that. (0:20:12) Al: Check your Kickstarter email. (0:20:13) Al: They’ll have sent you. (0:20:18) Codey: And they’re moving along. (0:20:21) Codey: They’re having a lot of stuff come out for it, which is really cool. (0:20:27) Codey: So I also hadn’t seen this game before, I don’t think. (0:20:29) Codey: And it looks very Animal Crossing. (0:20:33) Codey: But they have some wilderness that you can explore. (0:20:36) Codey: So you can choose a different type of island to go explore and just get ready. (0:20:39) Codey: resources from which is really cool and then they also added new flowers and fencing and stuff like that so it looks like they’re really active in development so good for them. (0:20:48) Al: Yup, yup, yup, yup. (0:20:49) Codey: Mm hmm. Yes. (0:20:50) Al: I’m looking forward to it. (0:20:51) Al: I think it’s an exciting game. (0:20:54) Al: One specifically for Cody, Rusty’s retirement is coming, confirmed, coming to Mac now. (0:21:00) Al: Wait, is this good or is this bad? (0:21:02) Codey: It’s good, because I wanted to play this. (0:21:03) Al: OK, right, but it’s bad because it’ll always be on your computer now. (0:21:08) Codey: That’s fine. (0:21:10) Codey: That’s fine. (0:21:11) Codey: I’ll just turn it on. I’ll just turn on the focus mode. (0:21:15) Al: OK. (0:21:16) Al: I mean, that requires like. (0:21:18) Al: Like discipline, which I’m not going to say you don’t have, that would be harsh. (0:21:22) Codey: Well, I don’t right now, but… (0:21:25) Al: But we’re very similar and I don’t have that discipline. (0:21:30) Al: So. (0:21:30) Codey: We are very similar. (0:21:32) Codey: You’re not wrong. However, I think by the time this comes out, I will have my medication. (0:21:38) Al: It’s, well, laddie dah, sorry for some. (0:21:42) Al: It’s one of these things, this is one of these things I was talking to my therapist about. (0:21:47) Al: She was like, “Oh, do you ever do these things, like positive reinforcement things?” (0:21:51) Al: And I’m like, I’m just, my brain knows I’m tricking it, right? (0:21:55) Codey: Yeah. Oh, yeah. (0:21:56) Al: It doesn’t care. (0:21:57) Al: It’s like, I can just, it’s like, oh, if I do this thing, I get a snack and it can go, (0:22:01) Al: I can just have the snack, right? (0:22:03) Codey: I can just do that. Yeah. (0:22:04) Al: I don’t, I can’t trick myself. (0:22:08) Al: I don’t know how this works. (0:22:09) Codey: Yeah, I try and like, like, they’re like, oh, just like, schedule it and impose, impose a deadline on yourself. (0:22:10) Al: So yeah. (0:22:16) Codey: And I’m like, well, yeah, but I know that I can just move the deadline so it doesn’t do anything for me. (0:22:18) Al: It’s a fake deadline! (0:22:25) Codey: And I’m hoping that when I get some type of ADHD meds, we’ll see what I get, I don’t know what they’re going to offer me, but hopefully I’ll have some built-in focus ability developed at that point. (0:22:38) Al: Look, I’m not, the deadline thing is funny, right? (0:22:41) Al: Because I’m not going to lie. (0:22:42) Codey: Uh huh. (0:22:43) Al: If you look at the the main episodes of the podcast and you look at the greenhouse (0:22:48) Al: episodes of the podcast, you could very much see the deadlines help. (0:22:52) Codey: Yeah, they do. (0:22:53) Al: Because every single episode of this podcast has come out on the day it’s meant to come out. (0:22:57) Codey: See, but that’s, that’s like, that’s a deadline that has another human, like other people. (0:23:01) Al: Yeah, no, that’s my point. (0:23:02) Al: That’s my point. Exactly. (0:23:04) Al: Like, I have a strict schedule and it works. (0:23:06) Al: it actually has done it. (0:23:08) Al: And there are some times that the episode has only come out because I say that there’s going to be an episode every Wednesday, right? (0:23:13) Codey: Exactly. (0:23:14) Al: There have been weeks where that might not have happened. (0:23:18) Codey: Yeah. (0:23:19) Al: And then you look at the greenhouse and it’s like, oh, there was nothing in April or May. (0:23:23) Al: And then there were six in June. (0:23:28) Codey: Yeah, but… (0:23:28) Al: Because it’s like, all I say about that one is, roughly two a month. (0:23:32) Codey: Yeah. (0:23:32) Al: And let me tell you, you got two a month last year, just not every. (0:23:36) Codey: Roughly. (0:23:38) Al: Every month you got an average, an average of two a month. (0:23:40) Codey: Over time. (0:23:43) Codey: Over time, you got the quantity, but they just did not release twice a month. (0:23:48) Al: There was no regularity to that. (0:23:51) Codey: Whatever people appreciate it. (0:23:52) Al: Thank you, my patrons. (0:23:55) Codey: They’d probably, I mean, TBH, the patrons probably appreciate the waiting for us to have things that we’re excited to talk about versus forcing content that we might not necessarily be as excited to talk about, so yeah. (0:24:03) Al: Well, that’s true. (0:24:06) Al: That’s true. (0:24:08) Al: Yeah. (0:24:10) Al: How many more Sonic episodes will we do? (0:24:13) Codey: Many. (0:24:13) Al: I don’t know. (0:24:16) Al: Immortal life. (0:24:18) Al: By the way, I enjoyed the Sonic Prime. (0:24:20) Al: Sonic Prime was good. (0:24:22) Al: Kevin said, “I’ve heard that it’s bad.” (0:24:25) Al: And no, I don’t think it is. (0:24:27) Al: I think it’s good. (0:24:28) Al: It is a self-contained three series arc, (0:24:31) Al: a very specific story and I think. (0:24:33) Al: It’s a really, it’s basically like multiversal Sonic, and I think it’s really fun. (0:24:38) Al: So if you’ve ever wanted to see three, four different kinds of Amy all fighting together, (0:24:44) Al: go watch Sonic Prime. (0:24:46) Codey: Mmm, okay. (0:24:46) Al: Really good. (0:24:47) Al: Immortal life. (0:24:51) Al: Join a flourishing settlement in an idyllic valley and seek a peaceful life as you search for a way to restore your recently destroyed (0:25:03) Al: Taoist clan. (0:25:05) Al: Farm, rebuild, make friends, explore and train. (0:25:08) Al: Will you find your way to immortality in this earthly paradise? (0:25:11) Al: I don’t know, will I? (0:25:14) Al: Good question. (0:25:15) Al: So I don’t think we’ve covered this game yet, despite the fact that it’s been in early access for quite a while, nearly a year. (0:25:18) Codey: - Mm-hmm. (0:25:24) Codey: And the fact that it’s coming out pretty soon. (0:25:24) Al: But yes, the 1.0 is now coming out on the 18th of January, which is the day after this episode comes out. (0:25:32) Codey: Mm-hmm (0:25:33) Al: Now we were talking about it. (0:25:35) Codey: Mm-hmm (0:25:35) Al: There we go. (0:25:36) Al: It… (0:25:38) Codey: Yeah, I mean I I like the look of it. Um (0:25:42) Codey: It the graphics kind of give me uh, okami vibes (0:25:46) Codey: Um, which I really like okami. It’s just kind of like the (0:25:50) Codey: brush stroke um look to it in the (0:25:54) Codey: Not not all of the graphics but like a lot of the background stuff looks like it was brushed on (0:26:00) Codey: um, which is really pretty (0:26:03) Codey: Uh, it to me like it looks like a stardew clone set in china (0:26:07) Codey: Um that includes some type of magical abilities to (0:26:11) Codey: Help you with farming and and the mines and stuff like that. It looks like there was some combat based magic system (0:26:14) Al: Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. I think that’s pretty fair. The stardew clone with magic set in China sounds pretty, pretty fair from what I can see, which is like, it’s one of these things where had this come out five years ago, would I be playing it? Probably like, I don’t think I’m going to spend the time to play this game because it’s like, I’m not seeing anything that really hooks me and says you must play this now. The crops look really nice. (0:26:40) Codey: Mm-hmm. Yeah, they do. I was gonna say the the crops themselves look pretty unique and pretty nice. (0:26:49) Codey: Um, yeah, I mean I’m in the same boat as you. I have too many games and too little money and too little time. So something has to have some uh a hook that’s really different and jumps out and and snags me to to make me play it. So, um, but looks cool and is gonna come out, so. (0:27:11) Codey: Yeah, check it out. (0:27:12) Al: Yeah, if it looks, if it sounds good to you, go get it. (0:27:16) Codey: Immortal life. What is it available? (0:27:18) Al: Immortal life. It is on Steam, just for Windows, as far as I can see. (0:27:26) Al: And it is coming to PS4 and Switch, but I don’t see anything about when it’s actually coming. (0:27:35) Al: It looks like they announced initially that it was coming out on PS4 and Switch, (0:27:41) Al: And then didn’t. (0:27:42) Al: See anything else about it, so maybe it’ll come out on switch. (0:27:46) Al: Maybe it won’t. (0:27:47) Al: We’ll see. (0:27:48) Al: But as of now, we only know about the Steam version releasing on the 18th of January. (0:27:48) Codey: - Okay. (0:27:52) Codey: - Woo. (0:27:53) Codey: Ooh. (0:27:53) Al: Woo, that’s the news. (0:27:57) Al: So we’re going to talk about Cottagecore game ideas is how I’m describing it. (0:28:03) Al: And basically, I mean, OK, this all comes down to I watched a show which we’re going to talk about soon, and I thought this would be fun as a Cottagecore game. (0:28:12) Al: I went, hey, let me see if I can talk about that. (0:28:15) Al: So we’ll get to that. (0:28:17) Al: But I thought there might be other ideas that we might have about games that people could make and you could take it and go make it. (0:28:26) Codey: Yeah, so devs, if you’re listening, and if you’ve been like, “Man, I don’t know what to make, but I want to make something,” get your notebooks ready, because we’re going to throw some golden nuggets out into the world. (0:28:27) Al: And there we go. (0:28:44) Al: Yeah, first of all, we’re going to chat a little bit about what Cody thinks. (0:28:52) Codey: I just thought that to have–okay, okay, come on. (0:28:54) Al: “The top three things that a cottagecore game needs”. (0:29:00) Codey: I thought that if we were going to have this type of conversation where we’re talking about here are some ideas for Cottagecore games, we should probably have some type of preliminary discussion about what we think a Cottagecore game is, because if we’re going to say, “Then don’t come at me,” just because you didn’t write your comments. (0:29:11) Al: I think that’s totally fair. (0:29:14) Al: I’m sorry, did I say something that was negative? (0:29:20) Al: I just said that these are what Cody thinks a God’s Code game needs, (0:29:23) Al: and we’re going to talk about them. (0:29:24) Codey: It’s a just it’s a discussion (0:29:25) Al: That’s all I said. (0:29:26) Al: Where’s the negative? (0:29:27) Al: And what I said, Cody? (0:29:28) Al: Always assuming the worst here. (0:29:30) Codey: It me (0:29:32) Al: What? (0:29:32) Al: Assuming the worst or the worst? (0:29:34) Codey: Yes, same same in both and yes (0:29:40) Codey: So I sat down for a super long one minute and thought about (0:29:48) Codey: Thought about like for me like what is a requirement for something to be a cottagecore game (0:29:54) Codey: and the three things that I (0:29:57) Codey: Kind of circled around is it has to have cozy vibes so it doesn’t have to have cozy vibes in every aspect of the game, but just at least in some part there has to be like a (0:30:08) Codey: Kind of an area that has a lot of plants a lot of green (0:30:11) Codey: It has to be a fairly low stakes games. Like you’re not you’re not out here like saving the world. It’s not an action game (0:30:20) Codey: It’s just about living your life like if you were in if you had a cottage and you were living (0:30:24) Codey: in a cottage. So cozy vibes and then there has to be some aspects of growing or creating things. (0:30:32) Codey: So whether that is like actually farming or like building things like if you’re mining resources and then building something from it and then there also is generally some aspect of collecting and exploring. So collecting could be something like fishing or farm or bug catching or (0:30:54) Codey: like fossils you know that kind of thing or just exploring. So you have an area a large geographic area and you explore it you explore the mines you explore the undersea area but yeah so those were those were kind of like what I fell on as something that every cottagecore game needs or the ones that we’ve discussed, like what they generally have. (0:31:24) Codey: So come at me, what do you disagree with here? (0:31:27) Al: I didn’t say I disagreed with anything. (0:31:32) Al: And now I’m going to disagree with it. (0:31:32) Codey: Heck yeah. (0:31:34) Al: So I think this is pretty fair. (0:31:39) Al: Part of me wants to say that the growing, creating things is an optional one. (0:31:44) Codey: Okay. (0:31:45) Al: Pretty common. (0:31:46) Al: Like I’m not saying it doesn’t have, like most of them, like 90% of them would have it. (0:31:50) Codey: Mm-hmm. (0:31:51) Al: But I don’t think I would say that that would be a requirement. (0:31:54) Codey: Okay. (0:31:55) Al: I think you could totally have a cozy game. (0:31:57) Al: That is focused entirely around collecting things, and have no growing or crafting or anything like that. (0:32:08) Codey: Well, so growing could also be like building I also see that as building (0:32:14) Al: OK, well, if you’re going to change what words mean, then sure. (0:32:16) Codey: Okay, I’m not changing what words mean I’m just like that’s it’s it’s like (0:32:23) Codey: Hmm cuz I would save it like bear and breakfast (0:32:26) Al: For listeners, Cody has now changed the sentence to some aspect of growing/creating/building things. (0:32:34) Al: That building was not there before. (0:32:36) Codey: No, no. So I mean, this is good because you’re helping me like become with, come up with a better just definition. We’re creating this definition together, but no. So like that was part of that is like what I thought by creating. Like I thought of like in Minecraft when you’re creating like a, when you build stuff with the crafting table. Um, but that is part of like building things. So like in Baron breakfast, for example, you don’t really grow anything but you do build (0:33:06) Codey: um you collect resources and you build like the furniture that then goes into your your hotels or your inns or your whatever you want to call them um so like that I think that that is a big part of it and even if you have some type of collection game so i’m thinking of like a game where literally all you do is go out and collect resources or collect insects or collect fish or whatever you generally like then would probably come back and build a terrarium for them or build (0:33:15) Al: Yeah, that’s fair. (0:33:33) Al: Oh yeah, generally, generally, yeah. I think it’s more just a case of like, I could absolutely, (0:33:39) Al: this is not about like, oh this game doesn’t have it, but I could totally foresee a collection-based game that is purely collection-based. And like, well no, if it’s cosy. Right? Like, I think, (0:33:44) Codey: Well then would it not be cottage court, it would just be a creature collector. (0:33:52) Codey: Okay. So it has to have two of these things. (0:33:57) Al: so if we talk like, for example, I don’t consider Pokemon generally to be Cottagecore, right? (0:33:58) Codey: Mm-mm. (0:34:02) Codey: Yeah. (0:34:03) Al: But that’s because it doesn’t have that vibe. It is, it’s about, you know, animal fights, (0:34:08) Codey: Yeah. (0:34:11) Al: right? That’s not cosy. If Pokemon didn’t have the battles, I would probably argue that many of them would be Cottagecore. And some of them have some growing aspects to them, but it’s very limited, and they haven’t done that for quite a while. So yeah. But I think most would, and I And I think that it can often– (0:34:16) Codey: Yeah. (0:34:33) Al: improve the game if they do have that. (0:34:36) Al: Because as is always common with games, you have your primary gameplay loop, (0:34:41) Al: which is doing a thing, and then you have your secondary gameplay loop, (0:34:46) Al: which uses the primary gameplay loop to do something else longer over time. (0:34:52) Al: And if you don’t have that, you don’t have your longer-term thing, (0:34:56) Al: then you get bored of the game pretty quickly. (0:34:59) Al: Um… (0:34:59) Codey: I’d say there’s also usually like a design aspect so like so you said there’s like the primary gameplay loop and then there’s the secondary one but you could do I’m one of those people where I just do those gameplay loops period end of story but a lot of games will usually also have some aspect of you can design things so like you can decorate your house or you can decorate your characters or you can decorate like all this different stuff and I think (0:35:03) Al: What do you mean by that? (0:35:29) Codey: that is also another thing at least the ability to decorate or (0:35:33) Al: Yeah, I mean, these are generally just different primary gameplay loops. (0:35:37) Codey: oh okay (0:35:38) Al: A game can have multiple of them. (0:35:39) Al: It doesn’t have to be like, there is, it doesn’t have to just be like, here’s the one thing you do, which then, as you do it lots, it unlocks other things, which then does this other thing. (0:35:49) Al: Like, it doesn’t have to be all completely interconnected. (0:35:51) Al: They can be different strands and different related things. (0:35:52) Codey: Got it. (0:35:57) Al: All right, cool. (0:35:59) Al: So let’s talk, I want to talk about my first one first, which is the one that I, (0:36:03) Al: I watched the show and I went, I want this as a game and that is Pokemon Concierge. (0:36:06) Codey: Okay. (0:36:08) Al: I want a Pokemon Concierge game. (0:36:12) Al: So for those who haven’t watched the show, (0:36:15) Al: very minor spoilers for Pokemon Concierge, but let’s be honest, (0:36:19) Al: it’s very hard to spoil that because the enjoyment of that is in watching it. (0:36:23) Al: It is about someone who escapes their life, (0:36:27) Al: their nine to five standard life to go to an island and help. (0:36:33) Al: Work at a Pokemon hotel. (0:36:35) Codey: Mm-hmm. Like a resort? (0:36:36) Al: Sounds like a cottagecore game already, doesn’t it? (0:36:40) Al: So I want that. (0:36:42) Al: Like, obviously, you could go in so many different ways with this. (0:36:47) Al: You could be in the case of the show, it’s obviously just like a worker (0:36:52) Al: and it could be just that. (0:36:53) Al: You could be a worker at the hotel doing what needs to be done. (0:36:56) Al: Or you could have it where you’re running (0:36:59) Al: hotel kind of, you know, more “better than breakfast” style. (0:37:03) Al: But it’s that, but also with Pokémon. (0:37:08) Al: I want a Pokémon cartridge core game. (0:37:10) Al: And this, I think, would work really well. (0:37:10) Codey: So I think like I like the idea of like you’re saying that you could be a worker or you could be the person running it. (0:37:13) Al: Yeah, here we go. (0:37:26) Codey: This makes me think of like the Sims where you can flip between people. (0:37:28) Al: Mm-hmm. Mmm. Ooh, yes, yes. (0:37:32) Codey: And I think that would be so cool. We’re like, if you wanted you could just you could just go be the I’m trying to think of the the Vaporeon that’s helping in the laundry. (0:37:46) Codey: And there could be like a laundry minigame that like helps you clean the sheets or something. (0:37:46) Al: I hadn’t, hadn’t even considered being the Pokemon. (0:37:52) Codey: Oh yeah, like like flipping between them. (0:37:56) Al: Hmm. (0:37:58) Codey: And I mean, maybe like you have to build up your friendship level with these Pokemon before they’ll let you be them. (0:38:06) Codey: be them? I don’t know. I don’t know. But um… (0:38:08) Al: That’s a very weird sentence, but I know what you mean. (0:38:10) Codey: Before you can inhabit their body and and control everything. (0:38:16) Al: That’s worse. (0:38:18) Al: Stop it. (0:38:20) Codey: But no, I think that would be really fun like having it where you can build your relationships with these pokemon and then you can maybe like help them with their duties. (0:38:30) Codey: So then there could be like a minigame that is laundry. A minigame that is fold the towels or make the bed, or clean the, the wall. (0:38:40) Codey: whatever, um, make the food for the, with the, gosh, what, what Pokemon would be in the kitchen? (0:38:49) Codey: A Mr. Mime? I don’t know. (0:38:50) Al: Al Kremi. (0:38:52) Codey: Well yeah, but, so like there’s, there’d be Alcrummy, there’d be, yeah. (0:38:55) Al: Thank you. (0:38:58) Codey: There’d be, there’d probably be a, a Vanillux. (0:38:58) Al: Come on, Cody. (0:39:00) Codey: Some of these don’t have hands though, like how are they going to be doing? (0:39:03) Al: But Al Kremi has hands. Come on, have you not watched the anime? (0:39:05) Codey: Okay, okay. (0:39:08) Codey: Uh, no. (0:39:10) Al: The new anime series has a lot of focus. (0:39:10) Codey: Okay. I have not. But yeah, so it would be cute to, to be able to kind of flip between the different quote unquote characters, um, and be able to kind of inhabit all aspects of running a little resort. (0:39:32) Al: Yeah, I like the addition of minigames, because that’s very much in the spirit of Pokémon side games, right? Like they quite often have lots of minigames in them, (0:39:44) Al: and also I like the idea of playing as the Pokémon. You could either do it as you’re playing just as a Pokémon, or you’re playing both as humans and as Pokémon. (0:39:53) Al: Like there’s lots of room to come up with other creative ideas within this, I think. (0:40:00) Codey: Also, in the show, are the guests of the hotel people, or are they Pokemon? (0:40:06) Al: I think they’re prime. I think I think they’re both I’m madly Pokemon (0:40:10) Codey: Because I could see like, okay, because I could see like, kind of like Baren Breakfast, (0:40:16) Codey: where some people want rooms that have more of X, and some people have rooms that have more and more Y. (0:40:24) Codey: Like, have it where you have a room that’s great for fire type Pokemon. (0:40:30) Codey: And you have a room that’s great for grass type, and like you have these rooms, or you can quickly redecorate a room to be in the style of a different Pokemon typing, (0:40:42) Codey: and you’d get like a bonus for matching those. (0:40:47) Al: Yeah, yeah, I think I would. So I think in this game, I think it would make most sense for all of the guests to be Pokemon. I think thematically that would make most sense. And also then you’re not having to create human characters that you would actually ever care about. And you have like a built in, here are a thousand Pokemon that we can use. (0:41:12) Codey: what if and what if you have it you fill a polka decks with your guests and and you can also if your room is so great and your guests say you get an IV sore coming and you give it a room that it just loves what if it evolves while it’s there, because it’s so happy. Wouldn’t that be so? (0:41:18) Al: There you go. It’s a Pokemon game. Perfect. (0:41:39) Al: What? What? Yes. This is perfect. Right, Pokemon, you can have this idea. There you go. Make a… It’d be hilarious if they ended up coming out with it, like, on Pokemon Day they announce it and it’s like, “We had the idea, seconds technically, I guess, because you’ve been developing this for a couple years now.” (0:41:42) Codey: So cute. (0:41:44) Codey: Yep. (0:41:44) Codey: Yep. (0:41:44) Codey: Yeah. Yep. (0:42:03) Codey: Watch it like comes out tomorrow. (0:42:05) Codey: And… I don’t know. That’d be funny. (0:42:08) Al: I don’t think it would come out tomorrow. (0:42:10) Al: I think if it’s going to come out, it’s being announced on Pokemon Day, right? (0:42:13) Al: No, no new Pokemon things are being announced in January. (0:42:15) Codey: That’s true. No, no, you right. You right. They have they have a day set for it. That would be really fun, though. (0:42:16) Al: But that’s not happening. (0:42:22) Codey: Though I would want this to be a more fully fleshed out game. I’d be really sad if this was like a mobile game that was bare bones. (0:42:31) Al: Yeah, I think it could work well as a both game. (0:42:36) Al: Like, you’d have to have the… (0:42:38) Al: I think you’d want the interface to be slightly different between them. (0:42:41) Al: But I think you could have it as both mobile and Switch. (0:42:41) Codey: I would want Switch. (0:42:45) Al: All right, tell me about one that you have. (0:42:47) Codey: Yeah, so I thought about games that I haven’t seen that I would like, and dived dove, dove really deep into my own life about what parts of my life are not represented in a video game that other people might also enjoy. (0:43:11) Codey: So, the first suggestion that I had was a game where you run a wildlife rehabilitation center. (0:43:19) Codey: So I have always wanted to run like a wolf sanctuary or something like that, like ever since I was a kid. (0:43:26) Codey: I don’t think I want to do that anymore, but I do really enjoy wildlife rehabilitation and I have been volunteering at a wildlife rehab for about three years now. (0:43:36) Codey: So if we, it would be really cool to make it a game where you could learn about wildlife rehabilitation, and then maybe (0:43:44) Codey: also like, some of the proceeds of the game could go to local wildlife rehabs. Because some of the stuff that they need, it’s it’s not that expensive, or it’s like, like literally dog, dog food, or cat food, or whatever. So but we also make really specific formulas anyway, so that’d be part of the game. But so it would be kind of like a business simulator or like (0:44:07) Codey: roller coaster tycoon, like that type of like management game. (0:44:10) Codey: Um… (0:44:11) Codey: Which… (0:44:13) Codey: I’m trying to think of that way. (0:44:15) Codey: Like, do we call those Cottagecore games? (0:44:17) Codey: Or do we call them something else? (0:44:19) Codey: Yeah. (0:44:20) Al: what management games. I think some of them can be. (0:44:21) Codey: Okay. (0:44:23) Codey: I think this could be, because it could be really cozy. (0:44:25) Codey: You could make it… (0:44:27) Codey: You could make it really cozy, especially if you have, like, (0:44:29) Codey: aspects where you play with the animals and stuff, which you can. (0:44:31) Codey: Um… (0:44:33) Codey: So, you could also have really exotic animals. (0:44:35) Codey: So, clearly, you know, (0:44:37) Codey: in my neck of the woods, we only have… (0:44:39) Codey: we only have (0:44:41) Codey: a lot of the native animals like squirrels, rabbits, turtles, some songbirds, things like that that come in, but in this type of game you don’t have to do that. You could have like zebras or lions or tigers or pandas or like all of these different things that come in with some form of injury or illness and then you have to to heal them. And then you could also build enclosures. (0:45:11) Codey: You would prepare all of the meals, you’d clean after them. (0:45:15) Codey: So that is just kind of everyday stuff that you do at the Wildlife Center. (0:45:20) Codey: The idea of a wildlife rehab is that you receive the animals. (0:45:26) Codey: People find an animal in the wild that is either injured or ill in some way. (0:45:31) Codey: You receive them and they need to be rehabbed so that they can be released. (0:45:37) Codey: The whole point is always for them to be released. (0:45:41) Codey: A lot of these animals you don’t want to play with. (0:45:44) Codey: You don’t want them to get used to being held and cared for by people. (0:45:50) Codey: A lot of the animals we actually don’t really interact with a ton. (0:45:54) Codey: We put them in a container, like a little cage for them, and then we give them a bunch of food. (0:46:00) Codey: We’ll take them out once or twice a day for medication depending on the severity of their injuries. (0:46:07) Codey: But there are some that are unreleasable because of, you know, if they have. (0:46:11) Codey: An injury that is too difficult for them to be able to be released. (0:46:15) Codey: Those are the types of animals that we do keep as ambassador or education animals. (0:46:19) Codey: And we’ll take those animals to shows or fairs or just different events to educate people about wildlife and wildlife rehabilitation and the importance of maintaining areas for wildlife. (0:46:33) Codey: So those animals you could play with, you could have little mini games where you play with them. (0:46:41) Codey: Build enrichment with them, kind of design their cages a little bit more spiffy because it’s a place that they’re staying for their life. (0:46:51) Codey: I think the only thing about this type of game is that it could be maybe too macabre or too gory because we do have a lot of animals that come in that are kind of beyond healing. (0:47:08) Codey: And in those situations, we usually just hear– (0:47:11) Codey: you mainly euthanize them, which is better than the alternative of them being stuck outside and just slowly passing. (0:47:20) Codey: So I don’t know if maybe there could be some form of in-game currency that’s about the fact that you’ve done some form of kindness for that animal, (0:47:31) Codey: made it so that their last– (0:47:33) Codey: or if we do try and heal them, but their illness or injury was too severe and they end up having they end up (0:47:41) Codey: Anyways, the effort was there, like there was an attempt made, you know? (0:47:47) Codey: And so I don’t know if there could be like some type of incentive system for that where it’s like you get these points that could then maybe like be used to try and heal an animal later. (0:47:58) Codey: I don’t know. (0:47:59) Codey: I’m trying to think of like how to gamify that aspect of it because it is sad, but it’s also a fact of it. (0:48:07) Codey: Like it’s just, it’s, that’s what happens. (0:48:10) Al: Yeah, I think it’s it’s interesting. I’m thinking of how to make this different from just like a standard zoo tycoon game. And like, because obviously it’s not the same thing. I’m not trying to say it is the same thing, but in terms of like gameplay, how it would be different, (0:48:10) Codey: Um… (0:48:11) Codey: Yeah, I don’t know. Do you have any thoughts about any of that? (0:48:28) Codey: Right. (0:48:31) Al: because a lot of that is very similar. Not saying that’s a bad thing. I mean, that’s that’s fine. (0:48:36) Al: Um. (0:48:37) Codey: I think the biggest thing, the biggest difference is a lot of like, so the wildlife center I

*CONTENT WARNING* What happens when you take a YA novel and throw in a healthy dose or horrendous war crimes? The Poppy War by R. F. Kuang! We talk with our guest Shawn about fiction depicting barely disguised real history and the morality of retributive violence.Follow Shawn on twitter @theavatarshawnpatreon.com/swordsandsocialismEmail: SwordsAndSocialismPod@protonmail.com The Show: @SwordsNSocPodAsha: @Herbo_AnarchistKetho: @MusicalPuma69

This week Kelly and Katai venture back into fantasy with “The Poppy War” by R.F. Kuang, the first book in Kuang's historical fantasy trilogy based on the second Sino-Japanese War of the early 20th century. They talk trauma trauma trauma, the Rape of Nanjing, bearing witness, how violence begets violence, the endless cycle of revenge, and more. CONTENT WARNING: due to the historical basis of the novel and our desire not to gloss over real events, there is graphic discussion of violence and rape, as well as mentions of suicideSUBSCRIBE TO THE TEEN CREEPS PATREON to get ad free episodes, bonus episodes, merch, and more:https://www.patreon.com/teencreepsCONNECT W/ TEEN CREEPS:https://twitter.com/teencreepspodhttps://www.instagram.com/teencreepspodhttps://www.facebook.com/teencreepspodBUY TEEN CREEPS MERCH:https://www.teepublic.com/stores/teen-creepsTEEN CREEPS IS A FOREVER DOG PODCASThttps://foreverdogpodcasts.com/podcasts/teen-creeps*All creepy opinions expressed are those of the hosts and guests. SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON for ad free and video episodes, bonus episodes, and more:⁠https://www.patreon.com/teencreeps⁠ CONNECT:⁠https://discord.com/invite/FYp4QNhruE⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/teencreepspod⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/teencreepspod⁠ MERCH:⁠https://www.teepublic.com/stores/teen-creeps⁠ TEEN CREEPS IS AN INDEPENDENT PODCAST. *All creepy opinions expressed are those of the hosts and guests. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week Kelly and Katai venture back into fantasy with “The Poppy War” by R.F. Kuang, the first book in Kuang's historical fantasy trilogy based on the second Sino-Japanese War of the early 20th century. They talk trauma trauma trauma, the Rape of Nanjing, bearing witness, how violence begets violence, the endless cycle of revenge, and more. CONTENT WARNING: due to the historical basis of the novel and our desire not to gloss over real events, there is graphic discussion of violence and rape, as well as mentions of suicide SUBSCRIBE TO THE TEEN CREEPS PATREON to get ad free episodes, bonus episodes, merch, and more: https://www.patreon.com/teencreeps CONNECT W/ TEEN CREEPS: https://twitter.com/teencreepspod https://www.instagram.com/teencreepspod https://www.facebook.com/teencreepspod BUY TEEN CREEPS MERCH: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/teen-creeps TEEN CREEPS IS A FOREVER DOG PODCAST https://foreverdogpodcasts.com/podcasts/teen-creeps *All creepy opinions expressed are those of the hosts and guests. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Currently Reading, Meredith and Kaytee are discussing: Bookish Moments: historical figures and the best type of bookmark Current Reads: all the great, interesting, and/or terrible stuff we've been reading lately Deep Dive: we boss two TBRs from our bookish friends The Fountain: we visit our perfect fountain to make wishes about our reading lives Show notes are time-stamped below for your convenience. Read the transcript of the episode (this link only works on the main site) .  .  .  .  .  1:41 - Our Bookish Moments of the Week 7:59 - Current Reads 8:08 - Nim's Island by Wendy Orr (Kaytee) 9:41 - The Twits by Roald Dahl 9:41 - Matilda by Roald Dahl 9:42 - The BFG by Roald Dahl 11:05 - The Trial by Rob Render (Meredith, amazon link, or purchase the book from Waterstones where Meredith found it!) 12:25 - Waterstones UK 12:38 - Thirteen by Steve Cavanaugh 14:22 - The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman 14:59 - The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang (Kaytee) 15:08 - Babel by R.F. Kuang 18:27 - Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros  19:33 - Burn the Negative by Josh Winning (Meredith) 21:00 - An Unlikely Story  21:07 - Mister Magic by Kiersten White 24:24 - The Princess and the Grilled Cheese Sandwich by Deya Muniz (Kaytee) 27:53 - A Psalm for the Wild Built by Becky Chambers 28:57 - Starling House by Alix E. Harrow (Meredith) 30:52 - The Novel Neighbor 33:22 - The Ten Thousand Doors of January by Alix E. Harrow 35:10 - Barnes and Noble Exclusive Edition of Starling House 36:25 - Deep Dive: Boss My TBR 36:38 - Currently Reading Patreon From Natasha J. 38:07 - Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver 38:11 - This Is How It Always Is by Laurie Frankel 38:14 - A Darker Shade of Magic by V.E. Schwab 38:18 - A Murder in the Family by Cara Hunter 38:21 - The Adventures of Amina Al-Sirafi by Shannon Chakraborty From Jennifer R. 41:49 - The Push by Ashley Audrain 41:52 - Under the Whispering Door by T.J. Klune 41:54 - The Magpie Murders by Anthony Horowitz 41:57 - Scythe by Neal Shusterman 42:01 - The Yoga Store Murder by Dan Morse - 43:56 - Burn the Negative by Josh Winning 44:30 - The House in the Cerulean Sea by T.J. Klune 47:19 - Meet Us At The Fountain 47:27 - I wish everyone would follow Mychal Threets on Instagram 47:43 - @mychal3ts 50:11 - Barnes & Noble Sets Itself Free article 50:16 - Barnes & Noble 50:52 - Daunt Books 53:25 - Bookshelf Thomasville Support Us: Become a Bookish Friend | Grab Some Merch Shop Bookshop dot org | Shop Amazon Connect With Us: The Show: Instagram | Website | Email | Threads The Hosts and Regulars: Meredith | Kaytee | Mary | Roxanna Bookish Friends Receive: The Indie Press List with a curated list of five books hand sold by the independent bookstore of the month. October's IPL is curated by The Novel Neighbor. Visit them on Instagram Trope Thursday with Kaytee and Bunmi - a behind the scenes peek into the publishing industry All Things Murderful - special content for the scary-lovers, brought to you with the special insights of an independent bookseller The Bookish Friends Facebook Group - where you can build community with bookish friends from around the globe as well as our hosts Affiliate Disclosure: All affiliate links go to Bookshop unless otherwise noted. Shopping here helps keep the lights on and benefits indie bookstores. Thanks for your support!

Zach concludes his reaction videos to The Poppy War trilogy (R.F. Kuang) with this spoiler-lite Book Blast about book 3, The Burning God. He tells us his thoughts on the conclusion: Did the author land the plane, was it a hot mess, or somewhere in-between? And should you read it, if you haven't done so yet? Again, safe for those who haven't read it, but good for those who have. If you know the book already, we'd love to hear your reaction to Zach's thoughts here! #fantasy #SFF #ThePoppyWar #PoppyWar #TheBurningGod #booktube #booktuber #booktubers We hope you'll Like and Subscribe! Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/jMWyVJ6qKk Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/FantasyForTheAges Check out our merch: https://www.newcreationsbyjen.com/collections/fantasyfortheages Rate & review us at Apple Podcast or wherever you download content. Email us: FantasyForTheAges@gmail.com. Find us on social media: Mastodon: @FantasyForTheAges@nerdculture.de Twitter: https://twitter.com/Fantasy4theAges Instagram: fantasy_for_the_ages Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FantasyForTheAges

Today the SibNerds are ushering in SPOOKtober with some spooky micro fiction from Reddit! What do you think of micro fiction? Or two-sentence horror? What do you think would be some challenges of writing really short horror? Wanna check out the subreddit? https://reddit.com/r/TwoSentenceHorror/s/zvUxqkBXzN Shoutout to these Reddit users: derf_vader, Tinyarmtrex88, Killroy137, VenoStoat, EarthMarsUranus, Minithemermaid, JokerCrowe, Iknowkarazy, Undflight, Nathan_is_writing, Zjoriek, EarthMarsUranus, M1ghty_boy, MintClicker, ItalianQuagsire, Talsuya, Tryingtryagain123, Bookseer, From_Strange_Seeds, Deiun, The Beardeding, and DayerethDdraigson Vote for our next Read Along on our Patreon! 1.     The Poppy War by: R.F. Kuang 2.     Tress of the Emerald Sea by: Brandon Sanderson 3.     The Fifth Season by: N.K. Jemisin Anna is reading: - A Magic Steeped in Poison by: Judy I. Lin - The Hobbit by: J.R.R. Tolkien (audiobook read by Andy Serkis) - Legends and Lattes by: Travis Baldree - The Little Ghost Who Was a Quilt by: Riel Nason Anna is watching: - Critical Role, campaign 3 (YouTube) - Tokyo Ghoul (Crunchyroll) Josef is watching: - Critical Role, campaign 3 (YouTube) - Tokyo Ghoul (Crunchyroll) - Ragnorak (Netflix) Josef is reading: - A Magic Steeped in Poison by: Judy I. Lin Josef is playing: - Baldur's Gate 3 (PS5) - D&D - Root (boardgame) - Flamecraft (boardgame) Don't forget, you can get bonus content by joining our Patreon! Join us on our read along through A Magic Steeped in Poison by: Judy I. Lin! Find us on Twitter: @litround Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LitRoundTable Find us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thelitroundtable Art: Kris Easler: https://www.kriseasler.com/

Zach continues his reaction to books of this R.F. Kuang trilogy with this Book Blast on The Dragon Republic. How does it compare to the first book? Was it better, weaker, or about the same? Zach tells all - well, not all, as this is spoiler-lite - but you definitely get how he feels about this read. #fantasy #SFF #ThePoppyWar #PoppyWar #TheDragonRepublic #booktube #booktuber #booktubers We hope you'll Like and Subscribe! Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/jMWyVJ6qKk Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/FantasyForTheAges Check out our merch: https://www.newcreationsbyjen.com/collections/fantasyfortheages Rate & review us at Apple Podcast or wherever you download content. Email us: FantasyForTheAges@gmail.com. Find us on social media: Mastodon: @FantasyForTheAges@nerdculture.de Twitter: https://twitter.com/Fantasy4theAges Instagram: fantasy_for_the_ages Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FantasyForTheAges

Zach's coming at you here with a spoiler-lite reaction to book 1 of R.F. Kuang's Poppy War Trilogy, The Poppy War. No worries if you haven't read it - neither has Jim, and Zach knows better than to spoil something for dear ol' dad. Come see what Zach had to say! #fantasy #SFF #ThePoppyWar #PoppyWar #booktube #booktuber #booktubers We hope you'll Like and Subscribe! Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/jMWyVJ6qKk Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/FantasyForTheAges Check out our merch: https://www.newcreationsbyjen.com/collections/fantasyfortheages Rate & review us at Apple Podcast or wherever you download content. Email us: FantasyForTheAges@gmail.com. Find us on social media: Mastodon: @FantasyForTheAges@nerdculture.de Twitter: https://twitter.com/Fantasy4theAges Instagram: fantasy_for_the_ages Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FantasyForTheAges

Today the SibNerds are talking about Chapters 32 - 39! The drama! It's so tense! And we ended this week on a cliffhanger… but doesn't that just make you hungry to finish the book? Poison in this universe seems to have a mind of its own, and it's super creepy. Kang made an appearance in this section… and boy was that an appearance. Did you see his betrothal coming? Vote for our next Read Along on our Patreon! The Poppy War by: R.F. Kuang Tress of the Emerald Sea by: Brandon Sanderson The Fifth Season by: N.K. Jemisin Next time we'll be discussing Chapters 40-49! Happy Reading!   Twitter: @litroundFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LitRoundTable Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thelitroundtable Art: Kris Easler: https://www.kriseasler.com/

Calling all book friends! Join Evan and Chad as they buckle on their sweatpants and gird their books, one taking care to not crease the spine, the other using a kindle due to its chocolate-proof nature. However, be warned humble page spelunkers, as this book conversation boldly strides past sizzling space battles, skips through charged wizard duels, and charges with abandon into all-out warfare (so so so much warfare actually - thanks Poppy War). But for those with the heart to join our fearless book recommending hosts, a treasure greater than any dragon horde awaits. The treasures of a tale. The riches of stories weaved, shimmering gems of lessons learned. Yarns of sacrifice, loyalty, betrayal, and love. Adventures that allow one to sneak up behind the greatest questions surrounding the human condition, they provide the platter upon which sits the brain food of humanity's greatest thinkers. Fear not for we shall prevail, together. Now, prepare yourself as another exciting episode of Book Reviews Kill is upon is! 

Hi, Should-Heads! Have you always wanted to try reading epic fantasy but don't know where to start? Or maybe you already like it but aren't sure of where to go next? Or possibly you have no idea because you're not even sure what that IS? Either way, don't worry: Rachael has come with suggestions. LINKS MENTIONED: Henrietta Lacks' family settles with biotech firm BOOKS MENTIONED: Legends and Lattes (Travis Baldree), The Green Rider series (Kristen Britain), the Graceling series (Kristin Cashore), the Lord of the Rings series (J.R.R. Tolkien), the Song of Ice and Fire series (George R.R. Martin), the Poppy War trilogy (R.F. Kuang), the Mirror Visitor quartet (Christelle Dabos) and the Mistborn series (Brandon Sanderson).Twitter and Instagram: wysr_podcast

Literary agent Sarah Landis joins me for a deep dive into the Speculative Fiction / Fantasy genre.  Sarah breaks down these terms, shares popular books in these genres, and discusses the trends she's seeing in the publishing industry.  Also, Sarah shares both her book recommendations and her go-to books for those looking to dive into these genres! This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). Highlights Differentiating between genres: Fantasy, Speculative Fiction, Sci-Fi, Dystopian, Post-Apocalyptic, Climate Fiction. The genres that scare publishers and the toughest genre to define! The sub-genres of fantasy: High / Epic, Grounded, and Historical. How the term ‘Speculative' is actually a broader umbrella term. The trends and performance in publishing for Speculative Fiction and Fantasy.  Why many fantasy books are written as a series. How the “Harry Potter” generation seems to be shaping both readers and authors. Sarah's go-to recommendations for those new to these genres! Sarah's Book Recommendations [30:31] Two OLD Books She Loves The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden | Amazon | Bookshop.org [30:56] The Ten Thousand Doors of January by Alix E. Harrow | Amazon | Bookshop.org [33:18] Two NEW Books She Loves Babel by R. F. Kuang | Amazon | Bookshop.org [35:16] Juniper & Thorn by Ava Reid | Amazon | Bookshop.org [38:12] One Book She Didn't Love The Atlas Paradox by Olivie Blake | Amazon | Bookshop.org [39:58] One NEW RELEASE She's Excited About House of Cotton by Monica Brashears (April 4, 2023) | Amazon | Bookshop.org [44:33] Last 5-Star Book Sarah Read The Cloisters by Katy Hays | Amazon | Bookshop.org [46:08] Other Books Mentioned The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood [5:59] Red Clocks by Leni Zumas [6:11] Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett [6:56] The Measure by Nikki Erlick [7:15] The One by John Marrs [7:33] The Passengers by John Marrs [7:38] The Road by Cormac McCarthy [9:25] Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel [9:51] Leave the World Behind by Rumaan Alam [10:01] After the Flood by Kassandra Montag [10:52] Wanderers by Chuck Wendig [11:45] Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn [12:19] A Game of Thrones by James R. R. Martin [12:52] The Fellowship of the Ring by J. R. R. Tolkien [12:54] The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern [13:13] The Magicians by Lev Grossman [13:15] The Rules of Magic by Alice Hoffman [13:22] Circe by Madeline Miller [16:00] Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead [16:31] One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez [17:00] The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V. E. Schwab [18:58] Hell Bent by Leigh Bardugo [19:04] The Midnight Library by Matt Haig [19:06] Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens [21:12] The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins [21:15] Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus [22:05] Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin [22:10] Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo [26:40] The Change by Kirsten Miller [27:24] The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman [28:52] The Hero and the Crown by Robin McKinley [29:18] Beauty by Robin McKinley [29:21] Spindle's End by Robin McKinley [29:22] The Peripheral by William Gibson [30:16] In Five Years by Rebecca Serle [30:23] The Poppy War by R. F. Kuang [37:41] Yellowface by R. F. Kuang [37:49] The Atlas Six by Olivie Blake [40:15] Social Creature by Tara Isabella Burton [47:09] Necessary People by Anna Pitoniak [47:19] Cover Story by Susan Rigetti [47:28] About Sarah Landis Website | Twitter | Instagram Sarah Landis represents a wide range of fiction from middle grade to adult. Sarah is particularly drawn to high-concept plots, big hooks, speculative fiction, twisty thrillers, novels with a strong emotional core, and sweeping fantasy. She is always on the lookout for new talent and narrative risk-takers. Her clients' novels have received a variety of accolades, including Barnes and Noble book club selections and Reese's Book Club, and have appeared on the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists as well as international bestseller lists around the globe. Before joining Sterling Lord Literistic in 2017, Sarah worked as an editor for fifteen years, holding roles at G.P. Putnam's Sons, Hyperion Books, HarperCollins Children's Books, and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Books for Young Readers. Sarah graduated with a B.A. in English from the University of Virginia.

The stories we tell about the past can determine the way we understand the present. But what happens when we combine tales of magic and fantasy with some of the most traumatic chapters in history? I talk with novelists P. Djeli Clark, Nisi Shawl, and Zen Cho about how speculative fiction can be a useful tool to reimagine the legacy of colonialism and imperialism. Plus, we hear readings from actress Nneka Okoye. Books mentioned in this episode: A Master of Djinn by P. Djeli Clark Everfair by Nisi Shawl Sorcerer to The Crown by Zen Cho Babel, or The Necessity of Violence: An Arcane History of the Oxford Translators' Revolution by R. F. Kuang (author of The Poppy War series) A Memory Called Empire by Arkady Martine Nisi also recommends: A Stranger in Olondria by Sofia Samatar The Dominion of the Fallen series by Aliette de Bodard  The works of L Timmel Duchamp and Margaret Killjoy This episode is sponsored by Aspiration Zero credit card. Our ad partner is Multitude. If you're interested in advertising on Imaginary Worlds, you can contact them here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices