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Greetings Friends,Here we are in the heart of summer. I am writing this a week after the passing of beloved eco-dharma elder Joanna Macy. We are also in the middle of our summer read of The Hidden Lamp: 25 Centuries of Awakened Women. The koan story that we explored this week was Case 13: Chen's Mountain Flowers and the commentary happens to be written by Joanna Macy. So I want to take the time in this post as well as the dharma talk audio to appreciate Joanna Macy's life, work and practice through the lens of the koan.Chen's Mountain Flowers: China 7th-9th CenturyChen was a laywoman who traveled far and wide, visiting famous masters. After she realized enlightenment, she composed the following verse.Up on the high slopes, I see only old woodcutters.Everyone has the spirit of the knife and the axe.How can they see the mountain flowersreflected in the water—glorious red?Joanna wrote about and lived her life with a wild love for the world. This was demonstrated in her activism, her translations of Rilke's Book of the Hours, her work at building containers to help those engaged in the on-the-ground activism to connect with the emotional and spiritual side of their work and her own dharma practice. The koan Chen's Flowers also speaks to a wild love for the world. One we are invited into through Chen's simple poem.I want to share an excerpt from an interview with Joanna Macy where she is speaking about her love for this earth/world, being less afraid of her fears and belonging—we are already home, she says:It is so great a privilege to be here on Earth at this time. I have had the good fortune to drink from three great streams of thought—the buddhadharma, systems thinking, and deep ecology. Each gives me another way to know Gaia and to know myself. Each helps me be less afraid of my fears. I have had the joy of helping others experience this too, of seeing them take the Work That Reconnects further, building our collective capacities and our trust in reciprocity.Being fully present to fear, to gratitude, to all that is—this is the practice of mutual belonging. As living members of the living body of Earth, we are grounded in that kind of belonging. We will find more ways to remember, celebrate, and affirm this deep knowing: we belong to each other, we belong to Earth. Even when faced with cataclysmic changes, nothing can ever separate us from her. We are already home.Our belonging is rooted in the living body of Earth, woven of the flows of time and relationship that form our bodies, our communities, our climate. When we turn and open our heart–mind to Earth, she is always there. This is the great reciprocity at the heart of the universe. My gratitude to all. May we experience “sheer abundance of being,” as Rilke says, and know that we truly belong here.Here are some resources if you would like to connect more to Joanna Macy's Life Work.On-being—An interview with Krista Tippett and Joanna Macy where several Rilke poems are sharedWork that reconnects—Joanna Macy's website with lots of free resourcesLion's roar interview—An interview with Joanna Macy about Buddhist practice and Eco-dharmaAs I turn over this koan and Joanna Macy's teachings and legacy I find many invitations for practice. Below are three that I am working with this week.An Invitation to Study WantingChen talks about how the woodcutters know only knife and saw. Taking from the earth is their way. What are the knives and saws in our own life? How do we cultivate the courage and generosity to make space for our own wanting, our own desires? What is it like to pause and feel the sensations of wanting without pushing them away, and also without indulging? What else accompanies wanting? And can we make space for those emotions, sensations, beliefs or memories?I find when I make space for wanting, I often open to the gift of this life being experienced through my senses, it feels tender and quivering like a reflection in the water. But good, real. Gratitude follows quite naturally.The Color Red as a Mindfulness BellChen's poem is short and simple, and yet the glorious red rings loudly. I found myself noticing red after reading this poem. So I took it up as a mindfulness practice. Allowing myself to really notice the shades of red in my life. To take time and linger with them, to feel the glory and boldness of ruby, cherry, vermillion, scarlet, crimson. Red also became a mindfulness bell, calling me to open my other senses—to really see, hear, smell, taste, feel. To let my awareness open and my thinking mind silence. Red awakened aliveness. I started to see how my neighbor's overalls, the cardinal on the river trail, the summer rose, the stop sign and brake lights were all in cahoots—helping me to awaken to our shared buddha nature.Wild Love for the World PracticeWhat if your love for the world and your grief for the world could co-exist? What if you took them both for a walk? Where would you go? What would you see? What is your own poem to express this wild love?i meet my sorrow in the lazy river, who doesn't mind my shy sadnessbut instead lets it float along with the gaggle of geese who seem to be deep in meditationi don't try to pretend that i know anything when i walk along the riverits more like meeting godwho seems to shine out of each of us unhindereda light so honesti almost don't lose myself in its playful lovingListen to the dharma talk for a more extensive dive into this koan and Joanna Macy's legacy. May we each discover that we too are already at home, and live with a wild love for this life. Feel free to share your reflections, thoughts or your wild love for the world poem in the comments section. Next week we will be exploring Case 15 in the Hidden Lamp, The Woman Lets it Be. Summer Reading Schedule can be found here.I'm Amy Kisei. I am a Zen Buddhist Teacher, Spiritual Counselor, Astrologer and Artist. I offer 1:1 Spiritual Counseling sessions using IFS and Hakomi (somatic mindfulness). I also offer astrology readings. Check out my website to learn more. I currently live in Columbus, OH and am a supporting teacher for the Mud Lotus Sangha.Weekly Online Meditation EventMonday Night Dharma — 6P PT / 9P ET Join weekly for drop-in meditation and dharma talk. This is where the Summer Read is happening if you want to join the discussion and practice live. Schedule here.Feel free to join anytime. Event lasts about 1.5 hours. ZOOM LINKZen Practice opportunities through ZCOGrasses, Trees and the Great Earth Sesshin—August 11 - 17, in-person at Great Vow Zen Monastery (this retreat is held outdoors, camping is encouraged but indoor dorm spaces are available)In-Person in Columbus, Ohio through Mud Lotus SanghaWeekly Meditations on Tuesday, Wednesday and ThursdayRetreats, Meditation instruction and other events can be found on our website. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amykisei.substack.com/subscribe
On this episode of the The SheerLuxe Podcast, Billie Bhatia is joined by Elizabeth Day and Hodge Templeman to chat what's new and noteworthy - from celebrity-favourite La Guérite and ‘The Summer I Turned Pretty' to Florence Knapp's ‘The Names' and a throwback to ‘Big Brother' season one. They also share their latest fashion finds - think Reformation dresses, statement jewellery from Dinosaur Designs, elevated basics from Zara and Yaitte, plus their denim picks from Aligne. Lastly, they discuss the viral Coldplay concert meme, Charli XCX's wedding look and the two books on everyone's nightstand: ‘One Of Us' by Elizabeth Day and ‘Please Yourself' by Emma Reed Turrell. Subscribe For More | http://bit.ly/2VmqduQ Get SheerLuxe Straight To Your Inbox, Daily | http://sheerluxe.com/signup PANEL GUESTSBillie Bhatia | @billie_bhatia | https://www.instagram.com/billie_bhatia/?hl=en Elizabeth Day | @elizabday | https://www.instagram.com/elizabday/?hl=en Hodge Templeman | @sarahjtempleman | https://www.instagram.com/sarahjtempleman/?hl=en WIN | https://sheerluxe.com/win/2025/06/win-the-ultimate-luxury-holiday-at-oku-bodrum COMPETITION | Beautifect | https://www.beautifect.com/ To enter, please leave a comment below stating what you'd love to see from us and we'll pick a winner. Terms & Conditions: The entrant must be 18 or over to enter, and it is only valid to UK entrants. Only one entry per person. No alternative cash or otherwise to the stated prizes are available. SheerLuxe is not responsible for and will not offer any compensation, financial or otherwise, for any loss, damage or disappointment arising if the prize is not fulfilled by the providing company for any reason whatsoever.Discount Code: SL2025ChatGPT Prompt: Using my birth date xx/xx/xx, uncover my hidden strengths, weaknesses, and the personal challenges I'm meant to overcome using numerology. Then you follow up with: My full birth name (as it appears on my birth certificate) is xxxx. Please calculate my Expression (Destiny) Number and Soul Urge Number. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Listen to The Jabot podcast as Kathryn Rubino interviews attorney and author Audrey Ingram, who shares her compelling transition from a law career to writing. Explore Audrey's journey, motherhood's role in her life choices, and get a glimpse of her new novel, “The Summer We Ran,” about first loves turned political rivals. A must-listen for aspiring writers and anyone seeking inspiration to chase their dreams! Highlights Transition from Big Law to Novel Writing Fulfillment in Motherhood Navigating Guilt and Finding Balance Inspiration for Debut Novel Elements of an Ideal Summer Beach Read Creativity and Storytelling Sources Crafting Imperfect Characters Integrating Legal Skills in Writing Balancing Creative and Business Aspects in Writing Episode Sponsored By https://www.lexisnexis.com/lexisplus Links and Resources https://www.instagram.com/audreyingramwrites/?hl=en https://www.instagram.com/zibbypublishing/?hl=en https://audreyingramwrites.com/ Subscribe, Share and Review To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player. Subscribe with Apple Podcasts Follow on Spotify Leave a review on Apple Podcasts
Get our Summer Reads and head over to our TAGS PATREON Community - Patreon.com/tagspodcast Columbian Adult Performer found guilty for brutal double murder of gay couple... David Geffen's ex drops bombshell about their 2-year marriage and wants payback... Lavern Cox responds to her original statement that she dated a MAGA Republican... Megyn Kelly slams Jennifer Lopez and we're not here for it! What is micro-cheating and who is guilty of it... What is your go-to romantic gesture? What is Scrotox and would you do it? Advice: When you open up your relationship - taking your partner into consideration and his health... Advice: A couple that is open keeps getting STI's.... Thirst Trap: Which NSFW took the best photo of the week? Follow Steve V. on IG: @iam_stevev Follow Lincoln on IG: @madlincoln Follow The Protein Bakery on IG: @proteinbakery Follow Kodi on IG: @mistahmaurice Rate and Review us! Wanna drop a weekly or one time tip to TAGSPODCAST - Show your love for the show and support TAGS! Visit our website: tagspodcast.com Needs some advice for a sex or relationship conundrum? Ask TAGS! DM US ON IG or https://www.talkaboutgaysex.com/contact Follow Of a Certain Age on IG: @ofacertainagepod
Edge God In Podcast 291: Summer Reads: Stop Letting the World Be the Boss of You: A Key to Freedom EdgeGodIn.com | Host: Lauren E Miller Download Bible Study Template Learning Objective: A great summer read: Stop Letting the World Be the Boss of You. Learn a key to internal freedom from resistance to change. Scriptures: 2 Peter 2:19 | Matthew 20:29-34 Prayer: Lord, I want to be free from the things in the world that prevent me from being able to change for the better in my life. Grant me the grace to embrace your strength, wisdom and guidance as you lead me out of captivity. Previous Edge God In Podcast: Summer Reads: Stop Letting the World Be the Boss of You! Summer Read Referenced: Stop Letting the World be the Boss of You! by Lauren E Miller and Jenn Chloupek Support Resources: Interior Freedom by Jacques Philippe Emotional Intelligence in Christ: 6 Week Study Guide
Greetings Friends,As we move through our Summer Read of The Hidden Lamp: Stories from 25 Centuries of Awakened Women this week we focused on Case 10: Asan's Rooster. The koan is one of devotion, deep listening and awakening to our true undivided nature.Here's the case.Asan was a lay woman who studied Zen with Master Tetsumon and was unremitting in her devotion to practice. One day during her morning sitting she heard the crow of the rooster and her mind suddenly opened. She spoke a verse in response:The fields, the mountains, the flowers, and my body too are the voice of the bird—what is left that can be said to hear?Master Tetsumon recognized her enlightenment.This koan describes an experience of reality, ordinary mind before identification with conditioned habits of separation.What Asan realized— is our natural state. There aren't boundaries that separate the senses. Our seeing, hearing, smelling, tasting, touching, thinking happen in the open field of awareness. There aren't boundaries between ourselves and the rest of the world. Everything we experience is part of the flow of our life. We are one body. There isn't some distant “us” apart from the flow of experience.Why don't we experience this wonder, freedom and intimacy? Well, we are. We do. We are never separate from reality.Its just that our attention gets hooked onto objects. Our habits of distraction, separation, disinterest and wanting things to be different— seem to obscure the open, inclusivity of our awakened nature. And so, we don't see what is right here, closer then close.This mis-perception is why we practice, we practice to reacquaint ourselves with the oneness, belonging, connection, freedom and love that is our nature, our ordinary mind, our natural state.We practice and have moments of realization, moments of awakening where our fascination with our habits of mind drop away, and we wake-up to the reality of our one life. We wake up to the one body of mountains, buildings, flowers and our body too as the voice of the bird, or the sound of the subway or the ring of the alarm.We are one body. This life is one life. Open your senses and wake-up to our shared life. Feel the spacious presence of mind's nature, clear, open, wake—all inclusive.In this dharma talk we explore the practice of listening as a dharma gate. This is a rich and deep practice that we can practice in meditation, in our relationships, with ourselves and as we move through the world. Listening invites intimacy, awakens spaciousness and presences. I invite you to practice listening with us this week. Here are some pith instructions for listening as a practice.What are you hearing? Open your senses. Let love guide your listening—as your sense of self opens beyond the limits of the physical body.The body of sound is vast and spacious. It includes the entire world.Listen closely, the sound is better.Be open to the pleasure and joy of listening.Drink it in.Try to listen without judgment, label or preference.Hear sounds as if you were listening to a strange, experimental piece of music.Feel the boundless quality to your listening—no inside, no outside, no in-between.Hear the cries of the world.Hear the joys.Let your listening include the waves of feeling moving through your own body.Compassion arises from this kind of listening.Can you hear the seemingly silent objects that surround you?Hear with your eyes, with your whole body, let all of your senses participate in your listening.Listen to the silence, the apparent source of sound.Is there anyone that can be said to hear?Who is that one?Rumi says: Listen, and feel the beauty of yourseparation, the unsayable absence.There's a moon inside every human being.Learn to be companions with it. Give more of your life to this listening.Give more of your life to this listening.As you reflect on this koan and the practice of listening, what resonates for you?* Have you ever had a taste or glimpse of awakening? What impact did it have on your life?* What is your experience with listening as a practice? * How is listening connected to compassion in your life?I'm Amy Kisei. I am a Zen Buddhist Teacher, Spiritual Counselor, Astrologer and Artist. I offer 1:1 Spiritual Counseling sessions using IFS and somatic mindfulness. I also offer astrology readings. Check out my website to learn more. I currently live in Columbus, OH and am a supporting teacher for the Mud Lotus Sangha.Weekly Online Meditation EventMonday Night Dharma — 6P PT / 9P ET Join weekly for drop-in meditation and dharma talk. This is where the Summer Read is happening if you want to join the discussion and practice live. Schedule here.Feel free to join anytime. Event lasts about 1.5 hours. ZOOM LINKZen Practice opportunities through ZCOGrasses, Trees and the Great Earth Sesshin—August 11 - 17, in-person at Great Vow Zen Monastery (this retreat is held outdoors, camping is encouraged but indoor dorm spaces are available)In-Person in Columbus, Ohio through Mud Lotus SanghaWeekly Meditations on Tuesday, Wednesday and ThursdayRetreats, Meditation instruction and other events can be found on our website. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amykisei.substack.com/subscribe
What makes a book the perfect beach read? In this sunny episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by authors Clémence Michallon, Jonathan Parks-Ramage, Megan Miranda, and Sara Hamdan for a lively conversation about the art of crafting a summer page-turner. From thrillers to romances and everything in between, they unpack what “beach read” really means, how they keep readers hooked, and—crucially—their go-to writing snacks. Then in segment two, Amy, Bre, Cece, Jananie, and Kayla stop by with top-tier book recommendations to toss in your tote bag, whether you're headed to the coast or just catching rays on your lunch break. Pack your sunscreen and press play! Check out the video version of this episode on the Libby App YouTube Channel. Guest Host Recommendations: Amy Allen Clark Sister, Sinner by Claire Hoffman (biography) Slanting Towards the Sea by Lidija Hilje Bre The Oath – TM Richardson The Wishing Pool – Tananarive Due Jananie Never Been Better – Leanne Toshiko Simpson The Bandit Queens – Parini Shroff Cece Cleat Cute – Meryl Wilsner Guillotine – Delilah S. Dawson Drowning – TJ Newman Kayla Every Time I Go on Vacation, Someone Dies - Catherine Mack Sweethand- N.G. Peltier A House on the Bottom of the Lake – Josh Mallerman Follow the Guests & Guest Hosts: Segment 1 Clémence Michallon - Website Jonathan Parks-Ramage - Website Megan Miranda - Website Sara Hamdan - Website Segment 2 Amy Allen Clark - Links Bre - Links Cece - Links Jananie K. Velu - Links Kayla - Links Time Stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:16 Intro 00:08:18 Segment 1 - Clémence Michallon, Jonathan Parks-Ramage, Megan Miranda, Sara Hamdan 00:54:57 BREAK – Check out Plot Threads Shop! 00:56:10 Segment 2 – Book Recommendations with Amy, Bre and Jananie! 01:30:24 Segment 2 – Book Recommendations with Cece and Kayla! 01:44:46 Outro Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today's episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season, or this list for today's episode! Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram! Want to reach out? Send an email to bookloungebylibby@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Join us for another summer fun episode where we dive into the latest book releases and share essential sun safety tips! Discover a diverse selection of new books, from nonfiction gems like "Secrets of Adulthood" to thrilling mysteries and unique cookbooks featuring creative ramen recipes. We also explore practical advice for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays, including the best SPF options and sun safety practices for all ages. Perfect for book lovers reading on the beach and anyone looking to stay safe in the sun this summer!
The jury will hear the first full day of testimony on Wednesday in the murder trial of a Colorado dentist. James "Jim" Craig is accused of poisoning his wife, Angela. Prosecutors say he gave her protein shakes laced with cyanide and other deadly chemicals. Craig has pleaded not guilty. Streaming shows dominated nominations for the 2025 Emmy Awards. "Severance" earned the most series nominations with 27. Meanwhile, "The Studio" earned the most-ever nominations for a debut comedy series with 23. Fandango's Erik Davis joins "CBS Mornings" to break down the 2025 Emmy nominations, which were announced on Tuesday. "Severance" was this year's most nominated show, earning 27 nominations. Emily Ratajkowski joins "CBS Mornings" to talk about her latest role as the new fiancée in "Too Much," a romantic comedy created by Lena Dunham and starring Meg Stalter as a heartbroken woman starting over in London. Amazon books editorial director Sarah Gelman joins "CBS Mornings" to share her picks for must-read books this summer, from thrillers to feel-good fiction Singer-songwriter Jake Wesley Rogers joins "CBS Mornings" to talk with Anthony Mason about his debut album "In the Key of Love" and opening for Cyndi Lauper's farewell tour. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Three are charged with homophobic attack in Ptown... Is the new Superman an immigrant story and a gay icon? Now the Stonewall monument is removing the 'B' and mentions of Bisexuality.... Revisiting Obergefell and the potential of losing same sex marriage... Actor Tim Pocock shares story of his Mother finding his NSFW pictures and confronting him... The hosts share their personal stories of being outed, coming out and more with adult content... We discuss the best and worst things about getting older It's our Summer Book Reading List! Get all of our recommendations for your next Summer read! Follow Steve V. on IG: @iam_stevev Follow Lincoln on IG: @madlincoln Follow The Protein Bakery on IG: @proteinbakery Follow Kodi on IG: @mistahmaurice Rate and Review us! Wanna drop a weekly or one time tip to TAGSPODCAST - Show your love for the show and support TAGS! Visit our website: tagspodcast.com Needs some advice for a sex or relationship conundrum? Ask TAGS! DM US ON IG or https://www.talkaboutgaysex.com/contact Follow Of a Certain Age on IG: @ofacertainagepod
[REBROADCAST FROM May 20, 2025] The new novel The Doorman follows Chicky Diaz, the titular character working at a high end Manhattan building who becomes ensnared in the web of secrets his residents try to keep. Author Chris Pavone discusses his new thriller.
Edge God In Podcast 290: Summer Reads: Stop Letting the World Be the Boss of You EdgeGodIn.com | Host: Lauren E Miller Download Bible Study Template Learning Objective: Stop Letting the World Be the Boss of You. Learn 3 traps that create anxiety in your life. Scriptures: Psalm 37:5 | Ephesians 5:3 | Luke 5:24, Mark 10:50, John 11:43 | Live in the thrill of the surrendered life: Matthew 6:33 | Romans 12:1 | 1 Peter 5:7 | Psalm 37:5 | Galatians 2:20 Prayer: Lord, I am guilty of greed and attachments. I get hijacked by the world's voice over yours and too often place my sense of worth and value in the hands of things that can never save me. Have your way with me today and give me the grace to pray on the things you want me to surrender rather than the things I want to control. Previous Edge God In Podcast: Summer Reads: Interior Freedom from Self-Doubt Summer Read Referenced: Stop Letting the World be the Boss of You! by Lauren E Miller and Jenn Chloupek Support Resources: Interior Freedom by Jacques Philippe Emotional Intelligence in Christ: 6 Week Study Guide
Greetings Friends,I am just getting back from our Interdependence Sesshin— five-days of residential silent retreat practice in the hills of West Virginia with the Mud Lotus Sangha. It was moving for me to practice sesshin in a new environment with many people who it was their first longer retreat.Sesshin is healing, no matter what the theme, it transforms us to sit and live in silence together, to practice opening the senses and seeing into our nature. It's a non-linear practice that awakens faith, vow, deep love and interconnection. As well as a confidence in the imperturbability of Mind itself.Returning from sesshin is its own practice. One that I am getting more familiar with outside of the monastery walls. Our lives are interdependent, so naturally sesshin flows into the structures and routines of our living. The heart-mind awake in the play of work, relationship, driving, eating—as the many hands and eyes of compassion express and manifest so seamlessly.What is this wonder? Alertly seeing through confusion is the way of silent illumination and the way of subtle radiance. —HongzhiOn Monday nights I lead an online drop-in meditation group through ZCO. We are currently doing a summer read of the Hidden Lamp: 25 Centuries of Awakened Women. You are welcome to join, click the link for the schedule below.This past Monday we read Case 6: Bhadda Kundalakesa Cannot Answer. Here is a short version of the story.Bhadda is a wandering Jain ascetic very skilled in debate. Wherever she goes she throws down a rose apple branch signifying that she is challenging any who dare engage with her to debate. When she is seventy years old, Shariputra (the Buddha's disciple) challenges Bhadda. Bhadda asks him several philosophical questions and he answers them all. Finally he says to her. I have one question for you. And proceeds to ask:“ One—what is that?”Bhadda can not answer.Shariputra then begins to teach her the dharma. Bhadda asks to take refuge and meets the Buddha who says to her.“One phrase that brings peace is better than a thousand words that have no use.”At these words Bhadda awakens. This koan feels particularly relevant in the charged political climate we find ourselves in. The nature of debate so often is a practice of proving ourselves, trying to convince the other how our perspective is the right one. We can feel self-righteous in our views, or morally superior or better then.When you debate or argue with someone, are you actually open to hearing what they have to say? How do we stay curious in the face of differences? What is it like to stay connected to your heart's aspiration when engaging in speech?In the story, Shariputra asks a mind-stopping question to Bhadda.One—what is that?The question itself doesn't really even make sense. As I repeat the phrase my mind has no where to go with it. It stops, opens, all that is left is space—quiet, wakefulness.I imagine this is what happened for Bhadda. Has anyone ever asked you a question that you could not answer? What did you do?This moment of not being able to answer left Bhadda open to the dharma—to the truth before words.Our words, our thoughts, our fears are often the source of division. We get so caught up in them, in being right or needing to defend ourselves or prove our position—that we forget that we are all made of the same stuff. That we all share the same nature, that quite literally and experientially our lives contain each other.If interdependence is our nature. How do we realize it?What is this One?This is the theme we explore in this dharma talk, feel free to listen and leave a comment. I'd love to hear your reflections on this koan as well.* Who are you when you aren't identified with your thoughts? When your mind is silent, open, awake? * Have you ever had the experience of not being able to answer? What happened next?* What is your experience of the Buddha's teaching to Bhadda—one phrase that brings peace is better than a thousand words that have no use?Next week we will continue the theme of oneness and interconnection through the practice of listening. To follow along and join the conversation read Case 10: Asan's Rooster in the Hidden Lamp. I'm Amy Kisei. I am a Zen Buddhist Teacher, Spiritual Counselor, Astrologer and Artist. I offer 1:1 Spiritual Counseling sessions using IFS and somatic mindfulness. I also offer astrology readings. Check out my website to learn more. I currently live in Columbus, OH and am a supporting teacher for the Mud Lotus Sangha.Weekly Online Meditation EventMonday Night Dharma — 6P PT / 9P ET Join weekly for drop-in meditation and dharma talk. This is where the Summer Read is happening if you want to join the discussion and practice live. Schedule here.Feel free to join anytime. Event lasts about 1.5 hours. ZOOM LINKZen Practice opportunities through ZCOGrasses, Trees and the Great Earth Sesshin—August 11 - 17, in-person at Great Vow Zen Monastery (this retreat is held outdoors, camping is encouraged but indoor dorm spaces are available)In-Person in Columbus, Ohio through Mud Lotus SanghaWeekly Meditations on Tuesday, Wednesday and ThursdayRetreats, Meditation instruction and other events can be found on our website. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amykisei.substack.com/subscribe
What better time than summer to dive into a great book? In this special episode of World Radio Paris Presents, host Héloïse sits down with producer ARBL Murray to share a curated list of French books — from literary giants like Dumas and Camus to contemporary voices like Leïla Slimani and Gaël Faye. These are the books we're reading this summer, all available in English. Whether you're stretched out on the beach, killing time in a café, or just curious about French culture, this episode is packed with titles that will help you see France in a whole new light!
In this heartfelt episode of My Simplified Life, hosts Michelle Glogovac and Stephanie Hockersmith explore how books shape our dreams, healing, and personal growth. From their fantasy of summering in beautiful places to their deep love for fiction and memoirs, Michelle and Steph dive into how literature provides both escape and emotional insight. They highlight the works of bestselling author Carley Fortune as perfect summer reads—offering reflection, romance, and relatable life struggles. The conversation also touches on grief, family dynamics, and the power of reading to help process complex emotions, especially when navigating topics like alcoholism and loss. Whether you're looking for meaningful book recommendations or simply need a reminder of how reading can transform your life, this episode is a warm, engaging, and honest discussion about the stories that stay with us long after the last page. What We're Talking About... Summering somewhere sounds delightful and aspirational. Carley Fortune's novels are perfect for summer reading. Books can evoke powerful memories and feelings. Memoirs provide insight into personal experiences. Reading can inspire a desire to work with authors. Fiction can offer an escape while reflecting real-life issues. The Baby-Sitters Club influenced childhood aspirations. Entrepreneurship can take many forms, including podcasting. Literature can shape personal growth and understanding. Summer reads can create a longing for lake life and romance. Manifesting dreams can be a powerful motivator. Reading a variety of genres enriches the literary experience. Mysteries often intertwine with themes of grief and loss. Grief can reshape our understanding of love and life. Books can provide comfort and insight into personal struggles. The portrayal of alcoholism in literature can be multifaceted and compassionate. Emotional journeys in books can inspire resilience in readers. Audiobook narrators play a crucial role in the reading experience. It's important to read at your own pace and enjoy the journey. Updating your reading list can lead to new discoveries and insights. Chapters 00:00 Summer Dreams and Aspirations 03:01 The Power of Books and Reading 06:01 Exploring Fiction and Memoirs 08:58 Carly Fortune's Novels and Escapism 11:48 Summer Reads and Personal Reflections 14:33 Manifesting Dreams and Literary Passions 15:39 Exploring Diverse Literary Genres 17:30 Mysteries and Grief in Literature 21:32 The Impact of Grief on Life 27:10 Navigating Alcoholism and Family Dynamics 31:52 The Emotional Journey of Reading
This week three writers join to talk summer reading recommendations from the world of history and historical fiction. Books The Spy in the Archive Sceptred Isle Rain of Ruin Test Cricket: A History The Pretender Korea The CIA Book Club Lest We Forget 1945 The Reckoning On Democracy & Death Cults Last Days of Budapest The Sorrow & the Loss These Wicked Devices March Violets - Bernie Gunther The Good Soldier Svejk A Good Man in Africa Guests Ollie on X Aspects of History on Instagram Get in touch: history@aspectsofhistory.com Antonia Senior - Historical Fiction Reviewer The Times Roger Moorhouse - Historian Richard Foreman - Author and Publisher Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In this episode, I'm sharing 10 life-changing books that every herbalist, gardener, and nature lover should have on their shelf. These are the books I return to again and again—whether I'm planning my medicinal herb garden, identifying wild plants, or curling up with a beautiful summer read that reconnects me to the heart of herbalism.
Welcome back to another year with Montessori in Action Podcast! Our first conversation of season 6 is our Summer Reads episode where we celebrate authors as they release books in our Montessori community. This July we welcome Susan Zoll, author of Powerful Literacy in the Montessori Classroom who joins us to talk about her new book, Effective Literacy Assessment in the Montessori Classroom. Susan is joined by new author, Katie Keller Wood, who wrote Alignment: A Montessori Approach to Reimagining Work-Life Balance. Congratulations to these Montessori authors!
What are Sarah and Cynthia reading this summer? Find out in this bonus episode of The Reading Lounge. Learn about six books you may want to pack into your summer tote bag. And don't forget the summer beverage. Sarah shares her recipe for homemade Limoncello. We used this beautiful liquor to make a Limoncello Spritz.3 oz Prosecco2 oz Limoncello1 oz Club SodaSprig of Mint (optional)Meet us in The Reading Lounge!
Jennie Loughran, Librarian in Waterford; and Tracy McEneaney, Librarian in Waterford; on Summer reads for children.
Mastretta's ultra-engaging, sex-forward, historical, feminist family romance from 1985 might be a touchstone of feminist literature, but it's also SO FUN TO READ. Kimberly dives in to the feminist underpinnings, the way our protagonist can rationalize living with a criminal (anyone interested in how Carmela Soprano did it, you should read this book!) and the literary merits of this engaging work. This is a summer read you'll remember forever!
Greetings Friends,We began the Summer Read of The Hidden Lamp: 25 Centuries of Awakened Women with the first koan—The Old Woman of Wutai, a story about the spiritual path, pilgrimage and life direction that features crone wisdom. If you are interested in joining the summer read, more information and reading schedule can be found here.In this email I would like to share the koan and some reflections about life as pilgrimage. I would also love to create space for your own reflections and engagement. First the koan.Hidden Lamp Case 1: The Old Woman of WutaiAN OLD WOMAN lived on the road to Mount Wutai. A monk on pilgrimage asked her, “Which is the way to Mount Wutai?” The old woman said, “Right straight ahead.”The monk took a few steps, and she said, “He's a good monk, but off he goes, just like the others.” Monks came one after another; they'd ask the same question and receive the same answer.Later, a monk told Master Zhaozhou Congshen what had happened and Zhaozhou said, “I'll go and investigate that old woman myself.”Next day Zhaozhou went to the old woman and asked, “Which is the way to Mount Wutai?”“Right straight ahead,” she replied.Zhaozhou took a few steps.The old woman said, “He's a good monk, but off he goes, just like the others.”Zhaozhou returned to the monastery and told the monks, “I have checked out the old woman of Mount Wutai for you.”This story begins with a person on pilgrimage. Chozen Roshi defines pilgrimage in her book on Jizo Bodhisattva as, a long journey to a sacred place as an act of devotion.* Have you ever been on pilgrimage?* Where did you go? Who/what did you encounter?* What did you learn?The Practice of PilgrimageI find pilgrimage to be a very good metaphor for our life as spiritual practice, especially for those of us who don't live at a monastery or temple. In our daily lives we move around, we walk, we journey to different places whether mentally or physically. We encounter strange, wise, ordinary and mysterious beings. Our seemingly mundane travels to the grocery store, to the gym, to the park, to work could be seen as journeys to sacred places. What makes something sacred? I think this is an important question to ponder. What in your daily life is sacred? What defines an encounter with the sacred?In the Buddhist tradition people make pilgrimage to see the places in the buddha's life, where he taught, the bodhi tree where he was enlightened, where he was born and died. These travels of devotion can be inspiring and connect us to an ancient path of practice.So too, we are living buddhas. Where we walk, drive or bike is sacred land. When we are present, attentive, mindful, aware—we are actualizing a practice of devotion. In her book, Jizo Bodhisattva: Modern Healing & Traditional Buddhist Practice Chozen Roshi explores the relationship between pilgrimage and wandering, she says:There is a difference between a pilgrim and a wanderer. Buddhist teachings use “wanderer” to refer to someone who is lost in the rounds of suffering existence, transmigrating through the six worlds. As we move day by day, hour by hour, among states of ignorance and stupidity, irritation and anger, greediness, coveting and jealousy, pain and mental discomfort, we are like people wandering in a dense primal forest, unable to find a way out or even to climb above the trees to see if there is an edge to this tangling wilderness. We will do this until we realize, hear or are shown that there is a way out.What is the difference between a pilgrim and a wanderer? First, we must know that there is a path. If we get lost and can't find our way out, the only choice is despair and/or a grim determination just to survive. What transforms despair and resignation to hope and joy is knowing there is a path.She then goes on to talk about the practice of pilgrimage and what we need for the journey.A pilgrim carries only the essentials. Jizo has a robe and bowl, a staff, and the Dharma jewel. Nothing extra. What do we need to step out on the path of practice? Just the equipment we were born with. A body and a mind. Actually, a body that is breathing.Body, breath and mind. That's all that's needed. The beauty of this is that it means you can practice anywhere, anytime. In line for the bank, in a traffic jam, rocking your child to sleep. Just align body, breath and mind and there you are…Students ask, “How do you find time for practice?” There are two answers. First, my life makes me practice. I could not do what I do without practice. Second, I turn my awareness around. Instead of looking for time to practice and trying to expand it, I look for time I am not practicing and try to shrink it.Meeting the Old WomanOn this journey in the koan, we encounter an old woman.This old woman embodies crone wisdom and is also a Jizo-like figure, living at a crossroads—offering direction.In the commentary to this koan Nancy Brown imagines that perhaps this woman lived on a crossroads point to Wu Tai her entire life. And perhaps when she was a younger woman she would give the pilgrims physical directions, “yes, turn right here and then follow the path until you get to the larger oak tree…” but as she entered elder-hood her directions became more of a spiritual nature that she expressed as—go straight ahead! There is another koan in our lineage that invites: go straight on a mountain road with 99 curves.Crone wisdom like koan wisdom is about stepping out of logical, rational, either/or dualistic ways of being—and awakening to a more-than-rational awareness.The people we meet on our journeys can be teachers. Sometimes a line from a chant catches us when we are practicing chanting. Similarly in the pilgrimage of our lives, sometimes an encounter with a stranger at the grocery store, a scene from a show, words on our instagram feed can be teachings—touching our hearts before words.I was recently reading the fairly tale the Maiden King, in it the young hero has an encounter with Baba Yaga, the crone figure who lives in the depths of the forest. In the tale she asks the hero,Did you come here of your own free will, or by compulsion?This pilgrimage, this healing journey, this spiritual quest, this life path you are on—how did you get here?Are you wandering or are you a pilgrim?In the fairy tale the hero answers, I came mostly of my own free will, and twice as much by compulsion.Mostly I was following my aspiration, and twice as much my wanderings.This is the way of things, we meet our lives as best we can through our vows, our intention. So much of what happens is beyond our control. Sometimes we wander and find ourselves in strange, challenging, habitual or unfamiliar terrain.The Way of Not-Knowing, The Way of IntimacyOne of my teachers invited us to practice aimless wandering. We would consciously disrupt direction oriented walking with a touch of chaos, moving not from the head but from some other source of direction.The practice was an invitation to embrace uncertainty as a practice—as something that we can embrace or be in relationship with. It also turns the duality of wandering and pilgrim around. Perhaps wandering too is the way—is part of this mysterious path.There is another koan about pilgrimage, here a pilgrim is asked where they are going on pilgrimage, and they answer honestly—”I don't know.” The teacher responds: “Not-knowing is most intimate.”I find when working with koans, that the phrases or images offered can become practice reminders. Which phrases or images feel alive for you? Carry them around and see how they open.I am practicing with the old woman's phrase—right, straight ahead. To voice this phrase internally as I notice mind-wandering into garden plans or song lyrics or stories about the people in my life—I say, “Kisei, right straight ahead.” And usually it wakes me up to the mystery of this place—the sounds of my hands typing, tree limbs dancing in the summer breeze, openness-unconditioned, belly-breath, an abiding tenderness towards life itself.Nancy Brown in her commentary shares that her teacher Zen Master Seung Sahn would end every retreat and every letter with the phrase:Only go straight, don't know; try, try, try for ten-thousand years nonstop; soon get enlightenment and save all beings from suffering.She continues:How do we go “straight-ahead-don't-know”? This question—any sincere question in the moment of asking it—returns us to a mind that is before thinking. In this moment of asking we and this universe are not split apart. How is it just now? What is the job of this moment? What a simple and portable practice!The Hidden Lamp ends each case with a couple of questions. I leave them here for you to reflect on and digest. I would love to hear your reflections.* What is the point of spiritual seeking, and what do you hope to find there?* Have you ever overlooked the wise person right in front of you, clothed in a seemingly ordinary form?* What from the koan or commentary has stayed with you? How are you practicing with it?* Has a question ever led you to the mind before thinking?I'm Amy Kisei. I am a Zen Buddhist Teacher, Spiritual Counselor, Astrologer and Artist. I offer 1:1 Spiritual Counseling sessions using IFS and somatic mindfulness. I also offer astrology readings. Check out my website to learn more. I currently live in Columbus, OH and am a supporting teacher for the Mud Lotus Sangha.Weekly Online Meditation EventMonday Night Dharma — 6P PT / 9P ET Join weekly for drop-in meditation and dharma talk. This is where the Summer Read is happening if you want to join the discussion and practice live. Schedule here.Feel free to join anytime. Event lasts about 1.5 hours. ZOOM LINKZen Practice opportunities through ZCOGrasses, Trees and the Great Earth Sesshin—August 11 - 17, in-person at Great Vow Zen Monastery (this retreat is held outdoors, camping is encouraged but indoor dorm spaces are available)In-Person in Columbus, Ohio through Mud Lotus SanghaWeekly Meditations on Tuesday, Wednesday and ThursdayRetreats, Meditation instruction and other events can be found on our website. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amykisei.substack.com/subscribe
Edge God In Podcast 289: Summer Reads: Interior Freedom from Self-Doubt EdgeGodIn.com | Host: Lauren E Miller Download Bible Study Template Learning Objective: Learn 4 steps to interior freedom from self-doubt and undesirable circumstances. Scriptures: | Isaiah 43:4 | John 15:5 | Zechariah 4:6 | James 1:2-4 Prayer: Lord, too often I doubt myself to the point that I block my ability to receive your love. Crash through all of it Lord and remind my mind of what my soul always knows. You love ME...all of me. Previous Edge God In Podcast: Summer Reads: How to Get Interior Freedom Support Resources: Interior Freedom by Jacques Philippe Award Winning Book: Hearing His Whisper: With Every Storm Jesus Comes Too, 3rd Edition by Lauren E Miller 99 Things You Want to Know Before Stressing Out! Lauren E Miller Stop Letting the World be the Boss of You! Emotional Intelligence in Christ: 6 Week Study Guide
This week, the sisters dive into one of the hardest kinds of breakups — losing a close friend without warning or closure. Nancy opens up about being ghosted by someone she once considered family, and the Fishes explore the heartbreak, confusion, and quiet grief that comes with a friendship that simply… ends. From red flags to silent fades, they share their own stories of friendship loss and how midlife has reshaped what connection really means.Of course, it wouldn't be a Fishes episode without a little household drama: Kathy floods her laundry room with a rogue pre-treatment sheet (yes, again), Lynne's dimmer switch installation goes wildly wrong, and everyone's sourdough starter is still under attack by fruit flies.Plus: How to talk to your daughters about friendship dynamics Skincare tips from a derm Dazzle Dry nail polish review Light summer book recs And a fast, no-fuss lobster roll recipe to eat your feelings with
We asked our Weirdos listeners for their summer read suggestions and they delivered! In this episode Sara and Cariad chat about some of the books they're excited to read.Thank you for reading with us. We like reading with you!Tickets for Sara's tour show I Am A Strange Gloop are available to buy from sarapascoe.co.ukCariad's children's book Where Did She Go? is available to buy now.Sara's debut novel Weirdo is published by Faber & Faber and is available to buy here.Cariad's book You Are Not Alone is published by Bloomsbury and is available to buy here.Follow Sara & Cariad's Weirdos Book Club on Instagram @saraandcariadsweirdosbookclub and Twitter @weirdosbookclub Recorded and edited by Naomi Parnell for Plosive.Artwork by Welcome Studio. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We're both staying very still in front of air conditioners this week, so that means we're very very happy to have a pile of summer reads at the ready! We're teeing up your piles of summer reads this week with our quarterly romance roundup! As a reminder, we haven't read most of these books -- but they're the ones toppling our TBR! As a reminder, preorders mean a lot more than they should these days, so if there's anything on this list that makes you go "oh, yes. that's for me," and you're able to preorder from your local bookstore (or from Pocket Books Bookshop with the code PREORDER) or reserve at your local library. The authors on this list thank you.As a reminder, Sarah has a new book out on July 8th -- go see her on tour in NYC, Chicago, Winston-Salem, NC, Newport, RI, Cambridge, MA, Decatur, GA, or Franklin, IN. There are a handful of tickets still available for Fated Mates Live in St. Louis, MO on July 8th! Join us!If you can't make the tour, you can preorder These Summer Storms signed with a special romance dust jacket from The Ripped Bodice. If you want more Fated Mates in your life, please join our Patreon, which comes with an extremely busy and fun Discord community! Join other magnificent firebirds to hang out, talk romance, and be cool together in a private group full of excellent people. Learn more at patreon.com.The BooksJuneWhen Javi Dumped Mari by Mia SosaBest Summer Ever by Jessica CunsoloKeeping the Countess by Lille MooreAn Ancient Witch's Guide to Modern Dating by Ceclia EdwardsSunny Side Up by Katie SturinoParty of Three by C. Travis RiceEliza and the Duke by Harper St. GeorgeSteel Horses & Leather Roads by Cher TeraisJuly
Edge God In Podcast 288: Summer Reads: How to Get Interior Freedom EdgeGodIn.com | Host: Lauren E Miller Download Bible Study Template Learning Objective: We are restricted by our own hearts. Freedom involves a choice on our part. Learn 3 responses to pain and two paths to interior freedom. Scriptures: | Romans 8:28 | Ephesians 2:10 | Galatians 5:1 | John 14:27 Prayer: Lord, I want to be free. Free from the pressure and expectations I put on myself to keep up with the world. Help me to receive the love you have for me to set me free...truly free in you and by you. Previous Edge God In Podcast: Prune for Growth: A Simple Solution for More Joy Support Resources: Interior Freedom by Jacques Philippe Award Winning Book: Hearing His Whisper: With Every Storm Jesus Comes Too, 3rd Edition by Lauren E Miller 99 Things You Want to Know Before Stressing Out! Lauren E Miller Stop Letting the World be the Boss of You! Emotional Intelligence in Christ: 6 Week Study Guide
Last weekend our Book Club gathered for a live event at Kildare Village to discuss the very best reads for summer 2025. Róisín Ingle, Bernice Harrison and Ann Ingle were joined by special guest bestselling author Marian Keyes and a room full of Women's Podcast listeners. There were recommendations to suit everyone and every mood, including a gripping crime thriller, a “life-changing” self help book and But before we bring you that recording, Irish Times opinion editor Jennifer O'Connel is here to discuss some of the biggest stories of the week, including the unveiling of the creator behind toxic gossip site Tattle Life. For the full list of summer reading recommendations, click here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Searching for meaningful summer reading that might transform your relationship with your college student? Look no further than this curated collection of parent-focused book recommendations from higher education professionals Vicki Nelson and Lynn Abrahams.The hosts dive deep into six powerful books that address crucial aspects of the college parenting journey. "Sleep Deprived Teen" reveals the shocking impact of sleep deprivation on everything from academic performance to athletic abilities, with teens biologically requiring 8-10 hours of sleep yet averaging only 6-7 hours nightly. Meanwhile, "How to Raise a Citizen" fills the critical gap left by diminishing civics education in schools, providing parents with accessible tools to teach citizenship regardless of their own political knowledge.For families with athletes, "Raising Empowered Athletes" offers a refreshing perspective focused on developing resilience rather than just athletic achievement. The standout chapter on "The Mindset Toolbox" introduces the five C's of building grit that benefit both young athletes and their parents. "Is This Autism?" takes a groundbreaking approach by incorporating the voices of autistic individuals as experts, shifting away from deficit-focused models toward understanding neurodiversity as a natural variation in human experience.Parents dreading the college admissions process will find solace in "The Truth About College Admission," which uniquely focuses on preserving family relationships throughout the journey rather than just "getting in." Starting with the fundamental question "Why are you going to college?", the book provides practical exercises and conversation starters that strengthen family bonds during this potentially stressful time. Finally, Brené Brown's "Braving the Wilderness" explores authenticity and belonging, offering profound wisdom about self-worth applicable to both parents and students navigating the college transition.Whether you're just beginning the college journey or supporting a current student, these thoughtfully selected books provide invaluable insights for strengthening your parent-student relationship while navigating the complexities of higher education. Which one will you read first? Thank you for listening! Much more information for college parents can be found on our website, College Parent Central Find us on Twitter at @CollParCentral Sign up for our newsletter for ongoing information Please leave us a review at “Love the Podcast” to help others find us.
Summertime, and the reading's easy… What makes a good summer read? Good covers? Spicy content? Fun plots? All of the above! Listen this week as Magda and Lindsay dive into their recipe for a perfect summer read, complete with recommendations. Books Mentioned in the episode: "The Poppy War" R.F. Kuang "Yellowface" R.F. Kuang "Babel" R.F. Kuang "The Girl with the Make-Believe Husband" Julia Quinn "The Perfect Divorce" Jeneva Rose "The Perfect Marriage" Jeneva Rose "One Hundred Years of Solitude" Gabriel García Márquez "Listen for the Lie" Amy Tintera "First Lie Wins" Ashley Elston "Never Lie" Freida McFadden "Beach Read" Emily Henry "The Bodyguard" Katherine Center "Practice Makes Perfect" Sarah Adams "You Made a Fool of Death with Your Beauty" Akwaeke Emezi "The House on the Cerulean Sea" T.J. Klune "Margo's Got Money Troubles" Rufi Thorpe "Yellowface" R.F. Kuang "The Midnight Feast" Lucy Foley "The Guest List" Lucy Foley "The Shadow of the Wind" Carlos Ruiz Zafón Email us! Literally Books Website Literally Books Instagram Magda's Instagram Lindsay's Instagram Literally Books YouTube Literally Books TikTok Intro & Outro Song: "Would it Kill You," courtesy of The Solder Thread
What if your daughter wants to be baptized… but she's not ready?In a recent True Girl True Girl online Bible study, Dr. Heather Holleman joined Dannah Gresh. During Q&A, one girl asked “When were you baptized?” The answer that followed prompted at least one girl to follow through on obeying the Lord in baptism. We wanted you to hear it. Plus Dannah and Heather unpack two of the best fiction picks for your daughter's summer reading.Get tickets to the True Girl Pop Up PartyGet the True Girl Subscription Box
Hi! Welcome to our Bookish Life! We are Jess and Tori and we chat about all things being content creators, influencers and book industry professionals!Tori's Youtube Channel | @NovelLife Jess's Youtube Channel | @PeaceLoveBooksxo Tori's Instagram | @liveanovellifeJess's Instagram | @peacelovebooksxoWant to send us snail mail?2500 Dallas Hwy Suite 202PMB 324Marietta, GA 30064USA
Maine authors part of statewide reading program discuss their work and offer good book suggestions
Looking for your next read to take on holiday, or the commute, or to read before bed? Then Nat and Phil have got you covered. Here they talk you through 10 new books they are either currently reading, or want to read - that's 5 choices from Nat, and 5 from Phil. There's a range of genres from mystery to memoir, love story to thriller, and hopefully at least one of these will be the next book you want to reach for too.The recommendations are:Giovanni's Room by James BaldwinNever Flinch by Stephen KingThe Compound by Aisling RawleMust You Go by Antonia FraserThe Director by Daniel KehlmannBlack Water Lilies by Michel BussiCity of Night Birds by Juhea KimWhat the Night Brings by Mark BillinghamSwept Away by Beth O'LearyGalway Confidential by Ken BruenWith a special mention to Books Are Magic, a Brooklyn bookstore, whose hat Nat was coincidentally wearing for this recording!
Hi! Yarn trip traveling this summer? I highly recommend visiting Nashville, TN. I'm also chatting about good storytelling, summer yarns and wips & this NYT bestseller summer romance read ☀️
The Cape Breton author and illustrator shares what books have been the most influential to in her life as a person and creative; Angel Misri and Sam Wiebe join the mystery panel to give their recommendations; how Flara K finds songwriting inspiration in novels; and the romance writer who runs a cake shop on this episode of The Next Chapter.Books discussed on this week's show include:Ducks: Two Years in the Oil Sands by Kate BeatonThe Making of the English Working Class by E.P. ThompsonThe Lost Salt Gift of Blood by Alistair MacLeod1066 And All That by R.J. Yeatman and W.C. SellarAnne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud MontgomeryBluenose Ghosts by Helen CreightonThe Seven Year Slip by Ashley PostonContemplation of a Crime by Susan JubyDetective Aunty by Uzma JalaluddinThe Silent Film Star Murders by Melodie CampbellBeen Wrong So Long It Feels Like Right by Walter MosleyFair Play by Louise HegartDirty Little War by Dietrich KalteisSay You'll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez
In this episode of My Simplified Life, host Michelle Glogovac shares her top summer book recommendations, spotlighting must-read new releases for June, July, and August. From empowering nonfiction to captivating fiction and even a few standout graphic novels, Michelle covers a range of genres to add to your summer reading list. Whether you're heading to the beach, relaxing at home, or looking for your next book club pick, these titles promise to inspire, entertain, and spark meaningful conversations. Michelle also shares her personal takes on each selection and invites listeners to join the conversation by sharing their own summer reading favorites. Perfect for book lovers, podcast fans, and anyone curating the ultimate summer TBR! What Michelle's Talking About... Summer is a great time to explore new books. Frog Daddy is a delightful graphic novel for kids. Fired Up by Shannon Watts inspires passion and action. Hazel Says No is a compelling family drama. Agents of Change showcases badass women in the CIA. The Art of Vanishing is a unique love story. Everyone is Lying to You is a thrilling mystery. Diana Says Yes promises to be a spicy read. If You're Seeing This, It's Meant For You is going to be fantastic and if you haven't read Self Care, you should read it. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Summer Reads 01:04 June Book Releases 03:26 July Book Releases 05:08 August Book Releases 06:57 Conclusion and Call to Action
Nothing beats a good book, especially at the cottage, by the pool — or even quietly at home with the kids away at camp. We ask two professional book lovers to share their tips for the best books of the summer, from beach reads and blockbusters to novels from Canada's finest.Ann Shea, from Mill Street Books in Almonte, Ont., chose One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune, The Alternatives by Caoilinn Hughes, How to Survive a Bear Attack by Claire Cameron, The Mind Mappers by Eric Andrew-Gee and My Friends by Fredrik Backman.Cassidy Tooley, from Mosaic Books in Kelowna, B.C., chose Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy, Favourite Daughter by Morgan Dick, The Book of Alchemy: A Creative Practice for an Inspired Life by Suleika Jaouad, The Knight and the Moth by Rachel Gillig, and Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid.Have you read any of these books already? Hit play to hear the conversation and find out why our book lovers think you should!
In this episode, Communications Coordinator Andrea Marsh dishes on her Spice Girls obsession, Ramble Tamble, and Summer Reads.Andrea's Book Recommendations:Water Moon by Samantha Sotto YambaoShark Heart by Emily HabeckShady Hollow by Juneau Black
Katie McLain Horner and Kendra Winchester recommend summer reads! Subscribe to the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify. To get even more mystery/thriller recs and news, sign up for our Unusual Suspects newsletter! Ready to level up your reading life? Become a Book Riot All Access member and explore our full library of members-only content, including must-reads, deep dives, and reading challenge recommendations. For a limited time, the first 50 new All Access annual members get a FREE copy of Automatic Noodle by Annalee Newitz courtesy of Tor Publishing! Join Book Riot All Access to level up your reading life and claim your free copy of Automatic Noodle. News AI Summer Reading List with the Chicago Sun Times All the Sinners Bleed coming to Netflix Crime Reads Summer Reading List This content contains affiliate links. When you buy through these links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Books Discussed Victorian Psycho - Virginia Feito #FashionVictim - Amina Akhtar Murder at Gull's Nest - Jess Kidd King of Ashes - S.A. Cosby Be Gay, Do Crime - edited by Kristel Buckley and Molly Llewellyn Welcome to Murder Week - Karen Dukess Otherwise you can: Find Kendra on Instagram and BlueSky @kdwinchester and on TikTok @kendrawinchester Find Katie on Bluesky @kt-librarylady And we will talk to you all next time! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
[REBROADCAST FROM Jul 9, 2024] The novel Long Island Compromise from Taffy Brodesser-Akner is now out in paperback. It follows a very wealthy Long Island family coping with the aftermath of a kidnapping scheme. Brodesser-Akner discusses the book as part last summer's Get Lit with All Of It book club.
This week on Reeding Between the Lines, I'm joined by my mom and fellow book-lover Nicole for a cozy, laughter-filled episode all about summer reading—what defines it, what we're loving, and what's on our TBR as the weather warms up.We unpack the idea of the “beach read,” share our personal picks (spoiler: thrillers, fantasy, and romantic chaos all made the list), and talk about how our reading habits shift in summer mode. Whether you're packing for vacation, chasing kids around the yard, or just trying to carve out some porch-reading peace, this episode is for you.✨ In this episode:• What makes a book a good “summer read”?• Light vs. escapist vs. emotionally rich—what works and when• Mood reading while traveling• Our favorite books from past and upcoming summers• Series we're continuing this season (looking at you, Rebecca Ross and S.D. Smith)• Quick-fire recommendations: thrillers, romance, fantasy, and contemporary gems
[REBROADCAST FROM Jan. 8, 2025] Author Adam Ross draws on his experiences as a former child actor in his new novel, Playworld. The novel tells the story of Griffin, a 14-year-old sitcom star who finds himself caught in an inappropriate relationship with an adult woman in 1980s New York.
By the pool, at the beach, binge-able — the only requirements for the best summer book recommendations according to the It Gets Good girls. Warmer weather is coming and we are ready to tackle our summer reading list. Join us while we give you an updated list from last year (with some tried and true recs that you see time and time again from us!) As always, there is a healthy dose of chaos, laughter, and F1 talk for your enjoyment. Head over to our Instagram and save the post from this episode to reference later! Currently Reading: Taming 7 by Chloe Walsh Two Twisted Crowns by Rachel Gillig Watch Me by Tahereh Mafi Redeeming 6 by Chloe Walsh TikTok Accounts Mentioned: @lukereads @lynmoore_books
Send me a one-way text about this episode! I'll give you a shout out or answer your question on a future episode.If you are looking for some summer reads, I've got you today. I want to share some of my favorites in several categories, so there will be something for everyone. I have recommendations for Classics, Cozy Mysteries, Historical Fiction, Children's Lit, Sci-Fi, and some non-fiction recommendations on Theology/Christian Living and Homemaking. Tell me your favorite summer reads so I can share them in the next newsletter! Text me using the link above. ⬆️NOTES & LINKSAround the World in 80 Days | Jules VerneThe Count of Monte Cristo | Alexander DumasEmma | Jane AustenLady Hardcastle Mysteries | TE KinseyIvy Hill Series | Julie KlassenBelgravia | Julian FellowesThe American Heiress and Fortune Hunter | Daisy GoodwinMary Poppins Series | PL TraversMrs Piggle-Wiggle Series | Betty MacDonaldRedwall Series | Brian JacquesFive Little Peppers | Margaret SidneyStuart Little, Trumpet of the Swan, Charlotte's Web | EB WhiteThe Chronicles of Narnia | CS LewisOut of the Silent Planet, Perelandra, That Hideous Strength (Ransom Trilogy) | CS LewisJesus the King | Tim KellerEven Better Than Eden | Nancy GuthrieNone Like Him, In His Image | Jen WilkinEve in Exile | Rebekah MerkleMy Dear Hemlock | Tilly DillehayThe Hidden Art of Homemaking | Edith SchaefferNo Ordinary Home; The Uncommon Art of Christ-Centered Homemaking | Carol Jo BrazoThe Life-Giving Home, The Life-Giving Table | Sally ClarksonHomemaking | JR MillerSupport the showHOMEMAKING RESOURCES Free Weekly Newsletter, Homemaker Happy Mail Private Facebook Group, Homemaker Forum Newsletter Archive JR Miller's Homemaking Study Guide Audio Newsletter available to Titus 2 Woman monthly supporters SUPPORT & CONNECT Review | Love The Podcast Contact | Voicemail |Instagram | Facebook | Website | Email Follow | Follow The Podcast Support | theartofhomepodcast.com/support
The Summer Reading Program begins June 1! Kick it off with some new, adult fiction to help get in those minutes!
Diego Boneta knew he wanted to write a sexy, steamy murder mystery for his first novel. “And I also really wanted it to be a novel that was a great summer read.” That's exactly what he's done with The Undoing of Alejandro Velasco. Set in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, the story follows a mysterious young man, Julian Villareal, who arrives at the estate of his friend and tennis rival, Alejandro Velasco, after his sudden death. “You think he's this super rich kid from Mexico City, who's studying at UCLA, and then you slowly start realizing that he's not who he says he is.” The book is also being adapted by Amazon MGM Studios as an original series. “It's my first time doing this, where it's acting out a character that I wrote in a novel.” But for Boneta, whose father was a “national [tennis] champion in Mexico [and] played Wimbledon,” he's more than prepared to play Julian. “Julian is something that I already have in my DNA, because we've been working on this for so long now, I just want to make sure that it's the best version of the show that it can be for audiences to be entertained.”See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
This week, we're diving into a debut thriller that's frothy, funny, and unhinged in the best way. Liann Zhang joins me for a laugh-out-loud conversation about her new novel, Julie Chan Is Dead—a genre-blending con-artist thriller about identical twin sisters whose lives split in dramatically different directions… until one of them winds up dead.When the authorities mistake Julie for her famous sister, she makes a bold choice: to step into Chloe's perfectly curated shoes and steal her life. What follows is a fast-paced, satirical exploration of influencer culture, viral content, and the dark side of social media fame.In the spirit of the influencer theme, we share the most bizarre influencer swag we've ever received before digging into how a pandemic-fueled fascination with influencer culture allowed Liann to take a break from her dreams of writing about the Ming Dynasty.We also talk about what it's like to write a morally murky protagonist, the grotesque cult subplot that takes things to the next level, and why this book just might be Bunny meets Yellowface with a touch of The Bling Ring.In this fun conversation, Liann and I discuss:How Liann pivoted from writing about the Ming Dynasty to a con-artist thrillerWhy influencer culture during the pandemic was the perfect satirical settingCreating the character of Julie: an intriguing anti-heroine who fully leans into her morally gray side.The ongoing need for critical consumption of influencer content
Nothing like curling up under a tree with a good book! This episode is full of summer reading recommendations from kids for kids--with a good mix of avid and reluctant readers ages 8-16 with interests spanning all the genres. Here's a list of all the recommendations: (I'm an Amazon affiliate, so buying from these links helps support my podcast!) Hudson (14): Refugee by Alan Gratz Ground Zero, by Alan Gratz Jacob (15): Magic Treehouse Series, by Mary Pope Osborne Halloween Party by Agatha Christie Slacker series by Gordon Korman Katie (13): Resistance by Jennifer A Nielson A Night Divided by Jennifer A Nielson The False Prince and the rest of the Ascendant series by Jennifer A Nielson Abel (15): Michael Vey series by Richard Paul Evans Aiden (16): Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls Summer of the Monkeys by Wilson Rawls Percy Jackson Series, by Rick Riordan My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George Four Years Trapped in My Mind Palace by Johan Twiss The House of Months and Years Fablehaven by Brandon Mull Claire (12): Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley The War I Finally Won by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George Anything by Gordon Korman Lydia (8): Charlotte's Web by E. B. White Stuart Little by E.B. White Ramona the Pest by Beverly Cleary Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling Matilda by Roald Dahl Boxcar Children by Gertrude Chandler Warner Heidi (10): The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate Wayside School Series by Louis Sachar Catwad by Jim Benton The Odd 1s Out by James Rallison The Book Thief by Marcus Zusak Ezra (9): James and the Giant Peach, by Roald Dahl Holes, by Louis Sachar My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, by C.S. Lewis Whitney: The Trumpet of the Swan by E.B. White Flora and Ulysses by Kate DiCamillo The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo Because of Winn Dixie by Kate DiCamillo Masterminds, by Gordon Korman From the Mixed Up Files of Mrs. Basil E Frankweiler Little House on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls Wilder Anne of Green Gables Series by Lucy Maud Montgomery Nancy Drew by Carolyn Keene
It's a two for one show and do bear with us, because it's two books we loved, AND you get two authors in one podcast. One book is a darkly comic novel, All the Other Mothers Hate Me by Sarah Harman, and the other is Homestand, which is a wonderful nonfiction read about the loss of minor league baseball in small town America by Will Bardenwerper. Please tune in, because we believe that spring is in the air and these two great summer reads came a touch early. Find books mentioned on The Book Case: https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/shop/story/book-case-podcast-reading-list-118433302 Books mentioned in this week's episode: Homestand: Small Town Baseball and The Fight for the Soul of America by Will Bardenwerper All The Other Mothers Hate Me by Sarah Harman The Prisoner in His Palace by Will Bardenwerper Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris Jayne Eyre by Charlotte Bronte Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices