POPULARITY
Shani gets a message from the Great Beyond: Cameo. Theme music by Benedict Kupstas of Field Guides, graphics and logo by Turning Pages Designs. You can always email us at circleyeerk@gmail.com and find us on Instagram @circleyeerk.
On today's episode, host Kate Lindsay is joined by Angelina Mazza whose recent piece in The New York Times details how publishers are “modernizing” previously published books like Pretty Little Liars and Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret by replacing outdated references to pop culture and technology with artists like Billie Eilish and apps like TikTok. While publishers claim this is to keep younger readers engaged, others argue it's not just patronizing, but also disrespectful to the art of storytelling. This podcast is produced by Vic Whitley-Berry, Daisy Rosario, and Kate Lindsay. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On today's episode, host Kate Lindsay is joined by Angelina Mazza whose recent piece in The New York Times details how publishers are “modernizing” previously published books like Pretty Little Liars and Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret by replacing outdated references to pop culture and technology with artists like Billie Eilish and apps like TikTok. While publishers claim this is to keep younger readers engaged, others argue it's not just patronizing, but also disrespectful to the art of storytelling. This podcast is produced by Vic Whitley-Berry, Daisy Rosario, and Kate Lindsay. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On today's episode, host Kate Lindsay is joined by Angelina Mazza whose recent piece in The New York Times details how publishers are “modernizing” previously published books like Pretty Little Liars and Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret by replacing outdated references to pop culture and technology with artists like Billie Eilish and apps like TikTok. While publishers claim this is to keep younger readers engaged, others argue it's not just patronizing, but also disrespectful to the art of storytelling. This podcast is produced by Vic Whitley-Berry, Daisy Rosario, and Kate Lindsay.Need to set up your Slate Plus feed? If you subscribed through Slate.com, check out our FAQ at slate.com/podcastfaqs for easy instructions. Members subscribed via Apple Podcasts get automatic access—no setup required. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of the Hugonauts we're breaking down what truly defines great Young Adult fiction and answering the ultimate question: do these books actually hold up when you read them for the first time as an adult? We look at the core guidelines of YA literature—from exploring the human condition through a young protagonist's eyes to (ideally) teaching profound stuff that resonates beyond teenhood. We count down the absolute best YA sci-fi books and YA fantasy recommendations. We dive into legendary dystopian hits like The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins and Ready Player One by Ernest Cline, masterclass sci-fi like Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card and Red Rising by Pierce Brown, and classic fantasy staples like Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling, J.R.R. Tolkien's The Hobbit, Philip Pullman's The Golden Compass, and C.S. Lewis's The Chronicles of Narnia. But we don't just look at the masterpieces. We also separate the true YA novels from books that are actually meant for middle-grade kids (like The Giver, Redwall, and The Phantom Tollbooth). Finally, we tackle the controversial "duds" of the genre. Why are massive bestsellers like The Maze Runner, Divergent, and Scythe so incredibly popular, and why did they fall totally flat for us? Grab your reading list and let's find out which books are actually worth your time! No spoilers anywhere in this episode. Join the Hugonauts book club on discord Or you can watch our episodes on YouTube if you prefer video This episode is sponsored by Memoirs of the End by Vincent Rylan All the books we recommend, plus timestamps: 00:00 The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins 04:16 Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card 07:02 The Chrysalids by John Wyndham 08:55 SPONSOR - Memoirs of the End by Vincent Rylan 09:30 Ready Player One by Ernest Cline 12:54 Illuminae by Amie Kaufman & Jay Kristoff 15:20 Red Rising by Pierce Brown 18:47 Tomorrow, When the War Began by John Marsden 20:15 A Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket 22:39 The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien 23:56 The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman 26:40 The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis 29:10 The Wee Free Men by Terry Pratchett 31:38 Powers by Ursula K. Le Guin 34:14 The Wind Through the Keyhole by Stephen King 35:14 The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman 36:55 Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling 39:10 Redwall by Brian Jacques 41:17 Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of Nimh by Robert C. O'Brien 41:55 The Giver by Lois Lowry 42:41 The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster 43:34 Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer 44:40 Cinder by Marissa Meyer 45:56 Running Out of Time by Margaret Peterson Haddix 46:54 How are these duds so popular?
This week another fine listener to the pod has submitted their books for us to have a look! We discuss the good and the bad and decide whether or not we would buy this business right now! Sponsor Offers: Here Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TwoDrunkAccountants Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/twodrunkaccountants/ Website: https://twodrunkaccountants.com.au Email: twodrunkpodcast@gmail.com
It finally happened: the dogs made too much noise. Theme music by Benedict Kupstas of Field Guides, graphics and logo by Turning Pages Designs. You can always email us at circleyeerk@gmail.com and find us on Instagram @circleyeerk.
No new friends or...? Theme music by Benedict Kupstas of Field Guides, graphics and logo by Turning Pages Designs. You can always email us at circleyeerk@gmail.com and find us on Instagram @circleyeerk.
We fell into a Sario Rip, RIP timely episodes. But we're back and it's a doozy! Theme music by Benedict Kupstas of Field Guides, graphics and logo by Turning Pages Designs. You can always email us at circleyeerk@gmail.com and find us on Instagram @circleyeerk.
For Margie March, the Mamas planned to read weird books in Margie's honor, but they failed the assignment. Instead, the Mamas discuss two beautiful Young Adult books so gorgeous you'll want the hardcovers, and one slightly weird grown up book that wouldn't scare your grandmother. Book Chat:The Secret Astronomers by Jessica Walker, YA book in notesDirect Descendant by Tanya Huff, Grown-up cozy horror The Sun and the Starmaker by Rachel Griffin, YA fantasy romancewww.twolitmamas.com
Fear not, we're not pulling a fast one! Back our regular programming with the kiddos and a new fresh book! Theme music by Benedict Kupstas of Field Guides, graphics and logo by Turning Pages Designs. You can always email us at circleyeerk@gmail.com and find us on Instagram @circleyeerk.
It's so important for you to understand we did this THREE TIMES. Theme music by Benedict Kupstas of Field Guides, graphics and logo by Turning Pages Designs.You can always email us at circleyeerk@gmail.com and find us on Instagram @circleyeerk.
The time has come, someone was finally brave enough to show us their books. Live in this episode we analyse the books of Stone Pine Distillery and call a special guest to see if we get our assumptions right! Stone Pine Distillery: https://www.stonepinedistillery.com.au/home Sponsor Offers: Here Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TwoDrunkAccountants Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/twodrunkaccountants/ Website: https://twodrunkaccountants.com.au Email: twodrunkpodcast@gmail.com
66 years before Katniss first enters the arena, there is another girl from District 12 that captures the countries, and Coriolanus Snow's attention. You need to listen if you love: men who think they are important becuase of their last name, snakes who just love a good tune, and cops getting away with crimes. WARNING: Murder, child abuse, domestic violence, cannibalism, war, substance abuseBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/book-cult--5718878/support.
We're so sorry for what you're about to witness. At least you can opt out. Theme music by Benedict Kupstas of Field Guides, graphics and logo by Turning Pages Designs.You can always email us at circleyeerk@gmail.com and find us on Instagram @circleyeerk.
Shani is finally free from the shackles of doing any work for this podcast, thankfully. Theme music by Benedict Kupstas of Field Guides, graphics and logo by Turning Pages Designs.You can always email us at circleyeerk@gmail.com and find us on Instagram @circleyeerk.
It's the new year and we thoughts why not dissect some financials while you enjoy your holidays! Can Dan guess who these financials are? Would he buy this business? Find out now! Sponsor Offers: Here Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TwoDrunkAccountants Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/twodrunkaccountants/ Website: https://twodrunkaccountants.com.au Email: twodrunkpodcast@gmail.com
Guess what? They're still walking in the woods. Now with more philosophizing! Theme music by Benedict Kupstas of Field Guides, graphics and logo by Turning Pages Designs.You can always email us at circleyeerk@gmail.com and find us on Instagram @circleyeerk.
Cassie continues the her tantrum with a new sidekick, Frodo and Sam have nothing on these two.Theme music by Benedict Kupstas of Field Guides, graphics and logo by Turning Pages Designs.You can always email us at circleyeerk@gmail.com and find us on Instagram @circleyeerk.
The time has come for Shani to make an effort: It's a Reach-Around episode!Theme music by Benedict Kupstas of Field Guides, graphics and logo by Turning Pages Designs.You can always email us at circleyeerk@gmail.com and find us on Instagram @circleyeerk.
Barry demonstrates incredible patience of post-cocktails Shani.Theme music by Benedict Kupstas of Field Guides, graphics and logo by Turning Pages Designs.You can always email us at circleyeerk@gmail.com and find us on Instagram @circleyeerk.
Author Candace Kade discusses her new novel, Augmented—the third and final installment in The Hybrid series. Our heroine, Lee Urban, is a Natural (someone born without genetic enhancements) who is fighting to dismantle the enhancement programs while trying to outmaneuver those who wish to erase her existence. Lee is someone who straddles two worlds—that of the Naturals and the Enhanced—but feels that she doesn't really belong to either one. Is it possible that she is the one person who can be a bridge between them? Maybe—if she can stay alive long enough to find out. Candace also shares how growing up as an expat in China and returning to the US as an adult gave her plenty of inspiration for writing about her main character's struggles.
From Top Chef to magical cooking school: Food Network personality and chef Marisa Churchill chats about her upcoming YA novel, Secrets, Spells, and Chocolate! Find out how she pivoted from cookbook to novel writing inspired by her years of culinary experience. Plus, tips on book marketing, fantasy world-building, and school visits.Want to win some of Marisa's chocolates? From 10/22-11/5 you can preorder her book and send a screenshot of the order to marisa@marisachurchill.com with the subject heading Good Story. Three lucky winners will receive a media kit.Marisa ChurchillWebsite: https://www.marisachurchill.com/Social: @chef_marisachurchillGood Story Company: If you have a story in your head, we're here to help you get it out into the world. We help writers of all skill sets, all genres, and all categories, at all stages of the writing process. Need a hand with brainstorming? Want to find a critique partner? Looking for an editor to help polish up your pitch, your idea, or your entire manuscript? We have all of it and more in our community. If you're ready to take the next step (or the first step) on your writing journey, we're here to help you.Website: https://www.goodstorycompany.comMembership: https://www.goodstorycompany.com/membershipWriting Workshop: https://www.storymastermind.comMary Kole: Former literary agent Mary Kole founded Good Story Company as an educational, editorial, and community resource for writers. She provides consulting and developmental editing services to writers of all categories and genres, working on children's book projects from picture book to young adult, and all kinds of trade market literature, including fantasy, sci-fi, romance, and memoir. She holds an MFA in Creative Writing and has worked at Chronicle Books, the Andrea Brown Literary Agency, and Movable Type Management. She has been blogging at Kidlit.com since 2009. Her book, Writing Irresistible Kidlit, a writing reference guide for middle grade and young adult writers, is available from Writer's Digest Books.Manuscript Submission Blueprint: https://bit.ly/kolesubWriting Irresistible Kidlit: http://bit.ly/kolekidlitIrresistible Query Letters: https://amzn.to/3yg511KWriting Irresistible Picture Books: https://amzn.to/3SrApRUHow to Write a Book Now: https://BookHip.com/ZHXAAKQWriting Interiority: Crafting Irresistible Characters: https://amzn.to/4evsX0BWriting Irresistible First Pages: https://amzn.to/4gxgslqNEW! Show and Tell: https://amzn.to/4kCc4noFollow us on social:YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/goodstoryBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/goodstory.bsky.socialInstagram: https://instagram.com/goodstorycompanyTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goodstorycoFacebook: https://facebook.com/goodstorycoSubstack: https://goodstoryco.substack.com/
Our biology teachers are incredibly disappointed in us.Theme music by Benedict Kupstas of Field Guides, graphics and logo by Turning Pages Designs.You can always email us at circleyeerk@gmail.com and find us on Instagram @circleyeerk.
The One Where The Gang Almost Loses Limbs, part 3465.Theme music by Benedict Kupstas of Field Guides, graphics and logo by Turning Pages Designs.You can always email us at circleyeerk@gmail.com and find us on Instagram @circleyeerk.
Brea and Mallory talk about how to age up your reading tastes from YA to adult (and if you should bother!). Plus, they have Becky Spratford on to discuss her new book WHY I LOVE HORROR, and they recommend fantasy books with NO spice. Email us at readingglassespodcast at gmail dot com!Reading Glasses MerchRecommendations StoreSponsors -ZocDocwww.zocdoc.com/GLASSESGreenChefwww.greenchef.com/50GLASSESCODE: 50GLASSESLinks -Reading Glasses Facebook GroupReading Glasses Goodreads GroupEtsy Wish ListNewsletterLibro.fmTo join our Discord channel, email us proof of your Reading-Glasses-supporting Maximum Fun membership!www.maximumfun.org/joinRA for AllRA for All: HorrorBecky's TourWhy I Love HorrorBooks Mentioned -Wearing the Lion by John WiswellA Resistance of Witches by Morgan RyanAn Academy for Liars by Alexis HendersonNinth House by Leigh BardugoKiller VHS SeriesHailey Piper BooksThe Buffalo Hunter Hunter by Stephen Graham JonesWhere the Sidewalk Ends by Shel SilversteinThe Country Under Heaven by Frederic D. DurbinCursed Daughters by Oyinkan BraithwaiteEmily Wilde's Encyclopaedia of Faeries by Heather FawcettThe Magician's Daughter by H.G. Parry
This week we tackle another set of financial statements from an interesting point in time, Twitter circa 2021. Tim has seen them, Dan has not. Can he answer whats good, whats not good, what is the industry, what is the business and would he invest? Find out as we deep dive and analyse Twitters financials! Don't forget you can submit your anonymised financial statement for us to review on a future episode of Show us ya books! by emailing them to twodrunkpodcast@gmail.com. Links: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TwoDrunkAccountants Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/twodrunkaccountants/ Website: https://twodrunkaccountants.com.au
Brent Taylor started at Triada US as an 18-year-old intern and has since built a successful career representing children's and adult fiction. Hear his thoughts on what's booming in the market, what will be hot next year, the rise of romance, tips for querying authors, hybrid publishing and more!Brent TaylorWebsite: https://www.btaylorbooks.com/Triada USGood Story Company: If you have a story in your head, we're here to help you get it out into the world. We help writers of all skill sets, all genres, and all categories, at all stages of the writing process. Need a hand with brainstorming? Want to find a critique partner? Looking for an editor to help polish up your pitch, your idea, or your entire manuscript? We have all of it and more in our community. If you're ready to take the next step (or the first step) on your writing journey, we're here to help you.Website: https://www.goodstorycompany.comMembership: https://www.goodstorycompany.com/membershipWriting Workshop: https://www.storymastermind.comMary Kole: Former literary agent Mary Kole founded Good Story Company as an educational, editorial, and community resource for writers. She provides consulting and developmental editing services to writers of all categories and genres, working on children's book projects from picture book to young adult, and all kinds of trade market literature, including fantasy, sci-fi, romance, and memoir. She holds an MFA in Creative Writing and has worked at Chronicle Books, the Andrea Brown Literary Agency, and Movable Type Management. She has been blogging at Kidlit.com since 2009. Her book, Writing Irresistible Kidlit, a writing reference guide for middle grade and young adult writers, is available from Writer's Digest Books.Manuscript Submission Blueprint: https://bit.ly/kolesubWriting Irresistible Kidlit: http://bit.ly/kolekidlitIrresistible Query Letters: https://amzn.to/3yg511KWriting Irresistible Picture Books: https://amzn.to/3SrApRUHow to Write a Book Now: https://BookHip.com/ZHXAAKQWriting Interiority: Crafting Irresistible Characters: https://amzn.to/4evsX0BWriting Irresistible First Pages: https://amzn.to/4gxgslqNEW! Show and Tell: https://amzn.to/4kCc4noFollow us on social:YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/goodstoryBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/goodstory.bsky.socialInstagram: https://instagram.com/goodstorycompanyTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goodstorycoFacebook: https://facebook.com/goodstorycoSubstack: https://goodstoryco.substack.com/
Who knew KA would forget the only thing that's kept Rachel alive this long?Theme music by Benedict Kupstas of Field Guides, graphics and logo by Turning Pages Designs.You can always email us at circleyeerk@gmail.com and find us on Instagram @circleyeerk.
Erica highlights some new YA genre-bending thrillers and Kelly talks with YA author Candace Fleming about her latest book, Death in the Jungle, as well as cults and YA nonfiction. Subscribe to the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify. To get even more YA news and recommendations, sign up for our What's Up in YA newsletter! Ready for a cozy, bookish autumn? Let Tailored Book Recommendations help you find your next favorite read with handpicked suggestions from professional book nerds. Get started today from just $18! This content contains affiliate links. When you buy through these links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Show Notes: The Devil's in the Dancers by Catherine Yu Roar of the Lambs by Jamison Shea When Devils Sing by Xan Kaur Empty Heaven by Freddie Kölsch Predatory Natures by Amy Goldsmith Death in the Jungle by Candace Fleming The Rise and Fall of Charles Lindbergh by Candace Fleming The Family Romanov by Candace Fleming The Great and Only Barnum by Candace Fleming "What Makes for Good YA Nonfiction" from School Library Journal Wake the Wild Creatures by Nova Ren Suma The 57 Bus by Dashka Slater All Thirteen by Christina Soontornvat Hollow Fires by Samira Ahmed Cultish by Amanda Montell The Chosen One by Carol Lynch Williams Underground by Haruki Murakami A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly Burn Baby Burn by Meg Medina The Color of a Lie by Kim Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Author Paul Coccia joins the podcast to chat about Recommended Reading, his YA book developed in partnership with Bittersweet Books! Learn his tricks for character development and interiority, why you should try throwing out your first draft, and how he pulls inspiration from lit theory. We also cover plans for the zombie apocalypse, how true crime is the antithesis to rom-coms, and why that had to happen in Bridge to Terabithia. Plus, Paul discusses the importance of representing LGBTQ+ characters and experiences by creating stories with universal appeal that are meaningful for queer readers.Paul CocciaWebsite: https://www.paulcoccia.com/Social: @pauljcocciaGood Story Company: If you have a story in your head, we're here to help you get it out into the world. We help writers of all skill sets, all genres, and all categories, at all stages of the writing process. Need a hand with brainstorming? Want to find a critique partner? Looking for an editor to help polish up your pitch, your idea, or your entire manuscript? We have all of it and more in our community. If you're ready to take the next step (or the first step) on your writing journey, we're here to help you.Website: https://www.goodstorycompany.comMembership: https://www.goodstorycompany.com/membershipWriting Workshop: https://www.storymastermind.comMary Kole: Former literary agent Mary Kole founded Good Story Company as an educational, editorial, and community resource for writers. She provides consulting and developmental editing services to writers of all categories and genres, working on children's book projects from picture book to young adult, and all kinds of trade market literature, including fantasy, sci-fi, romance, and memoir. She holds an MFA in Creative Writing and has worked at Chronicle Books, the Andrea Brown Literary Agency, and Movable Type Management. She has been blogging at Kidlit.com since 2009. Her book, Writing Irresistible Kidlit, a writing reference guide for middle grade and young adult writers, is available from Writer's Digest Books.Manuscript Submission Blueprint: https://bit.ly/kolesubWriting Irresistible Kidlit: http://bit.ly/kolekidlitIrresistible Query Letters: https://amzn.to/3yg511KWriting Irresistible Picture Books: https://amzn.to/3SrApRUHow to Write a Book Now: https://BookHip.com/ZHXAAKQWriting Interiority: Crafting Irresistible Characters: https://amzn.to/4evsX0BWriting Irresistible First Pages: https://amzn.to/4gxgslqNEW! Show and Tell: https://amzn.to/4kCc4noFollow us on social:YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/goodstoryBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/goodstory.bsky.socialInstagram: https://instagram.com/goodstorycompanyTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goodstorycoFacebook: https://facebook.com/goodstorycoSubstack: https://goodstoryco.substack.com/
Kelly and Erica discuss the latest media they've been consuming and the YA books coming out in August that they're most excited about. Subscribe to the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify. To get even more YA news and recommendations, sign up for our What's Up in YA newsletter! Book Riot is hiring a digital content specialist! If you love books and know the ins and outs of social media strategy, and especially social video, consider joining the team. Find details and apply by August 22, 2025, at riotnewmedia.com/careers. This content contains affiliate links. When you buy through these links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Books Discussed: Tin House Workshop Legendary Fry Bread Drive-In edited by Cynthia Leitich Smith A Beautiful and Terrible Murder by Claire M. Andrews Songs for Ghosts by Clara Kumagai The L.O.V.E. Club by Lio Min White Lies: How the South Lost the Civil War, Then Rewrote the History by Ann Bausum The Next Generation United Daughters of the Confederacy: Book Censorship News, April 28, 2023 Tall Water by SJ Sindu, Dion MBD Rosa By Any Other Name by Hailey Alcaraz Out of Darkness by Ashley Hope Perez This Place Kills Me by Mariko Tamaki, illustrated by Nicole Goux What Hunger by Catherine Dang Savvy Summers and the Sweet Potato Crimes by Sandra Jackson-Opoku Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Send us a textHannah and Laura were so thrilled to be joined by author, Jordan Ifueko, to discuss her Raybearer duology and her most recent release, The Maid and the Crocodile!! Jordan discusses how she develops characters who challenge societal norms, her interest in the working class and its representation, and writing about parental trauma for a younger audience. She also shares about a book that she is currently writing that will come out in Spring of 2026!**This episode contains SPOILERS for The Maid and the Crocodile and mild spoilers for Raybearer and Redemptor. **Be sure to follow Jordan online at:JORDAN IFUEKO - New York Times Bestseller AuthorInstagram: @jordanifuekoPlease request Jordan's books, Raybearer, Redemptor, and The Maid and the Crocodile at your local library or purchase them from your local indie bookstore!!Media Mentions:Raybearer by Jordan IfuekoRedemptor by Jordan IfuekoThe Maid and the Crocodile by Jordan IfuekoThe Genie Game by Jordan IfuekoHowl's Moving Castle by Dianne Wynne JonesHowl's Moving Castle---HBO MaxCharlotte Bronte's worksFrozen---Disney+Tangled---Disney+Pokémon Detective Pikachu---AppleTVSeverance---AppleTVSinners---HBO MaxA People's History of the United States by Howard ZinnDream Count by Chimamanda Ngozi AdichieSupport the showBe sure to follow OWWR Pod!www.owwrpod.com Twitter (updates only): @OwwrPodBlueSky: @OwwrPodTikTok: @OwwrPodInstagram: @owwrpodThreads: @OwwrPodHive: @owwrpodSend us an email at: owwrpod@gmail.comCheck out OWWR Patreon: patreon.com/owwrpodOr join OWWR Discord! We'd love to chat with you!You can follow Hannah at:Instagram: @brews.and.booksThreads: @brews.and.booksTikTok: @brews.and.booksYou can follow Laura at:Instagram: @goodbooksgreatgoatsBlueSky: @myyypod
Join us in wishing a very happy Debut day to our guest this week, SOULMATCH Author Rebecca Danzenbaker @rebeccadanzenbaker ! We loved getting to chat and celebrate with you this week.Rebecca Danzenbaker believes in trusting your gut and chasing your dreams. That probably explains her massive career jumps – from teaching elementary school music, to managing a team of 25 at Congressional Quarterly, to running an award-winning photography business, to writing young adult novels. When she's not editing words or photos, she's either reading, hiking, sending memes to friends, volunteering, planning incredibly detailed travel itineraries, being a goofball on social media, or cheering on her husband and two children as they chase their own dreams. Soulmatch is her debut novel, the culmination of five years of blood, sweat, and tears. She did it!About Rebecca's debut, Soulmatch:Two-hundred years after World War III, the world is at peace, all thanks to the soul-identification system. Every 18-year-old must report to the government to learn about their past lives, a terrifying process known as kirling. Good souls leave the institute with their inheritance, a career path, and if they're lucky, a soulmate. Bad souls leave in handcuffs.It's a nerve-wracking ordeal for Sivon, who, given her uncanny ability to win every chess match, already suspects her soul isn't normal. Turns out, she was right to worry. Sivon's results stun not only her, but the entire world, making her the object of public scrutiny and anonymous threats.Saddled with an infuriating and off-limits bodyguard, Sivon is thrust into a high-stakes game where souls are pawns and rules don't exist. As deaths mount, Sivon must decipher friend from foe while protecting her heart against impossible odds. One wrong move could destroy the future lives of everyone Sivon loves, and she can't let that happen, even if they'll never love her back.#dystopianromance #YAbooks #rebeccadanzenbaker #soulmates #booktok #authorinterview
Jason Reynolds is a #1 New York Times bestselling author and 2024 MacArthur Fellow who writes books for young people – but he didn't finish a book until he was 17. Instead, Jason found his literary voice in the rap lyrics printed in cassette tape liner notes. In this episode, Jason traces his journey from a kid disconnected from his assigned reading in school to becoming one of the most influential voices in young adult literature. He opens up about his fraught relationship with his father, spinning Bob Marley records by hand on a broken turntable, and why he doesn't want to be a parent despite having “dedicated [his] life to kids.” Here are his songs. Queen Latifah - U.N.I.T.Y. Goodie Mob - Soul Food Tracy Chapman - Talkin' Bout a Revolution Bob Markey & The Wailers - Is This Love Camp Lo - Luchini AKA This Is it Billy Joel - Vienna Clarence Carter - Patches
Danika joins Kelly this week to talk about exciting new YA books that hit shelves in June and July, as well as to talk the best YA books of 2025 so far. Subscribe to the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify. To get even more YA news and recommendations, sign up for our What's Up in YA newsletter! Looking to elevate your reading life? Tailored Book Recommendations is here to help! TBR delivers reading recommendations hand-picked just for you by real human book nerds. You can get your recommendations via email, or receive hardcovers or paperbacks in the mail. And with quarterly or annual plans available, TBR has something for every budget. Plans start at just $18! This content contains affiliate links. When you buy through these links, we may earn an affiliate commission. News: Best YA books of 2025 So Far Trailer for Mason Deaver's I Wish You All The Best has dropped We Were Liars released to Prime, The Summer I Turned Pretty Season Three is releasing its first two episodes on Prime July 16, and the animated take on Scott Westerfeld's Leviathan is dropping on Netflix July 10. Marissa Meyer's “The Lunar Chronicles” is being adapted for animation in fall 2028. Books Discussed: On Again, Awkward Again by Erin Entrada Kelly and Kwame Mbalia Death in the Jungle by Candace Fleming Messy Perfect by Tanya Boteju Love Points to You by Alice Lin "The Complicated World of YA Books for Younger Teens" "Do Teens Get Pushed Out of YA Books When It's Called A Genre?" (S)Kin by Ibi Zoboi Hear Us Out by Nancy Garden The Year They Burned the Books by Nancy Garden Wednesday The Haunting of Hill HouseCall Your Boyfriend by Olivia A. Cole and Ashley Woodfolk Coffeeshop in an Alternate Universe by CB Lee Best of All Worlds by Kenneth Oppel Half Brother by Kenneth Oppel Dan in Green Gables by Rey Terciero, illustrated by Claudia Aguirre Ana of California by Andi Teran Amelia, If Only by Becky Albertalli Imogen, Obviously by Becky Albertalli Hit Me with Your Best Charm by Lillie Vale The Tournament by Rebecca Barrow This Is What It Feels Like by Rebecca Barrow Nobody in Particular by Sophie Gonzales Her Royal Highness by Rachel Hawkins Not So Shoujo Love Story, Volume 1 by Curryuku Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Author Gloria Chao guides us through her unique journey from dentistry to writing! We also chat about her upcoming adult debut, The Ex-Girlfriend Murder Club. Listen to our conversation for fun insights on puzzles, coming-of-age YA stories, and learning there's no “right” way to write.Gloria ChaoWebsite: https://gloriachao.wordpress.com/Social: @gloriacchaoGood Story Company: If you have a story in your head, we're here to help you get it out into the world. We help writers of all skill sets, all genres, and all categories, at all stages of the writing process. Need a hand with brainstorming? Want to find a critique partner? Looking for an editor to help polish up your pitch, your idea, or your entire manuscript? We have all of it and more in our community. If you're ready to take the next step (or the first step) on your writing journey, we're here to help you.Website: https://www.goodstorycompany.comMembership: https://www.goodstorycompany.com/membershipWriting Workshop: https://www.storymastermind.comMary Kole: Former literary agent Mary Kole founded Good Story Company as an educational, editorial, and community resource for writers. She provides consulting and developmental editing services to writers of all categories and genres, working on children's book projects from picture book to young adult, and all kinds of trade market literature, including fantasy, sci-fi, romance, and memoir. She holds an MFA in Creative Writing and has worked at Chronicle Books, the Andrea Brown Literary Agency, and Movable Type Management. She has been blogging at Kidlit.com since 2009. Her book, Writing Irresistible Kidlit, a writing reference guide for middle grade and young adult writers, is available from Writer's Digest Books.Manuscript Submission Blueprint: https://bit.ly/kolesubWriting Irresistible Kidlit: http://bit.ly/kolekidlitIrresistible Query Letters: https://amzn.to/3yg511KWriting Irresistible Picture Books: https://amzn.to/3SrApRUHow to Write a Book Now: https://BookHip.com/ZHXAAKQWriting Interiority: Crafting Irresistible Characters: https://amzn.to/4evsX0BNEW! Writing Irresistible First Pages: https://amzn.to/4gxgslqFollow us on social:YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/goodstoryBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/goodstory.bsky.socialInstagram: https://instagram.com/goodstorycompanyTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goodstorycoFacebook: https://facebook.com/goodstorycoSubstack: https://goodstoryco.substack.com/
What if the legendary queens of Vietnamese history were reborn as modern-day teens in California? In this episode, we chat with author and educator Aimee Phan about her brand new YA fantasy novel, The Lost Queen. Aimee shares how her experience growing up as the daughter of Vietnamese refugees—and the absence of Vietnamese stories in the books she read—inspired her to create stories that center Vietnamese culture, history, and identity. From dragons and time travel to reimagined mythology, Aimee takes us behind the scenes of a novel that's as empowering as it is imaginative.We also dive into how The Lost Queen can open up powerful classroom conversations. Aimee reflects on why her students connect so deeply with YA and how fantasy can be a tool for exploring identity, agency, and belonging. If you're looking to bring more diverse and empowering stories into your teaching, this episode (and this book!) is a must.Resources:Camp BNTThe Lost Queen, by Aimee PhanAimee's WebsiteFollow Aimee on Instagram @aimeephanwritesSHOW NOTES: https://www.bravenewteaching.com/home/episode262"Send us a message - please include your contact information so we can chat soon!"Get your FREE Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs gateway lesson: shop.bravenewteaching.com/cloudyCheck out Curriculum Rehab here!Support the show
Author Mima Tipper discusses her debut young adult contemporary romance novel, Kat's Greek Summer. Rising high school freshman, Kat, is dragged off to Greece for a vacation to meet her extended family, ruining Kat's own summer plans of training for the cross-country team and preparing for a successful transition into high school. Mima describes Kat's Greek Summer as high-stakes odyssey for her main character—one of pursing dreams, discovering love, owning her heritage, and finding her own voice. For this story, Mima drew upon her own memories of the summer following her eighth-grade year, as well as summers she spent in Greece with her extended family.
In part two of our conversation with author Samira Ahmed, we deep dive into the genre of Internment—is it dystopian, speculative, or realistic fiction?—and why that label matters in the classroom. What starts as a conversation about shelving quickly becomes an exploration of how genre influences student thinking, how we can break down subject silos in education, and why teaching through inquiry is more critical than ever. Samira shares insights on the emotional toll of teaching today, the urgency of connecting past and present injustices, and her belief that “teaching is a revolutionary act.” This episode is a reminder of the impact educators have and the power of stories to spark resistance, reflection, and change.Resources:Camp BNTInternment, by Samira AhmedThe Grace Year, by Kim LiggettProphet Song, by Paul LynchRelated Episodes:Episode 155, Powerful Female Voices in YA Lit: An Interview with Yamile Saied MendezEpisode 171, New Dystopian Texts & Supplements for Your ELA ClassroomEpisode 230, Building Trong Writers: An Interview with Author Christina Schnider of The Daring English TeacherEpisode 260, Samira Ahmed: A Conversation About Internment Part 1SHOW NOTES: https://www.bravenewteaching.com/home/episode261"Send us a message - please include your contact information so we can chat soon!"Get your FREE Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs gateway lesson: shop.bravenewteaching.com/cloudyCheck out Curriculum Rehab here!Support the show
Camp BNT is back for year three, and we're kicking things off with bestselling author (and former high school English teacher!) Samira Ahmed. In this episode, Samira shares how her time in the classroom shaped her writing, the inspiration behind Internment, and how educators can use essential questions to spark powerful conversations. Plus, get a sneak peek at her upcoming projects—and hear why she's so passionate about writing for teens. This is part one of a two-part conversation you won't want to miss!Resources:Sign up for Camp BNTSummer Reading RescueInternment, by Samira AhmedLove, Hate & Other Filters, by Samira AhmedConnect with Samira:WebsiteInstagram: @sam_aye_ahmSamira's booksRelated Episodes:Episode 155, Powerful Female Voices in YA Lit: An Interview with Yamile Saied MendezEpisode 157, Modern Folktales and Monsters: An Interview with Diana LopezEpisode 166, Lesson Plan Inspiration with Elizabeth Acevedo: An Interview DebriefSHOW NOTES: https://www.bravenewteaching.com/home/episode260"Send us a message - please include your contact information so we can chat soon!"Ready to make your summer reading program awesome? Head to bravenewteaching.com/summerreadingSupport the show
Send us a textK.F. Breene month continues with Warrior Chronicles. Summon us @DTFaePodcast We like our coffee icy and our books spicy! Oh, and we're totally Down To Fae. A podcast for fantasy romance readers and fans of authors like Sarah J. Maas, Jennifer L. Armentrout, Rebecca Yarros and Carissa Broadbent. Follow along as your delulu hosts discuss your favorite romantasy books in a chapter-by-chapter read, re-read or refresher.
Send us a textHannah and Laura have volunteered as tributes for this week's bonus episode! That's right, they're talking all about Suzanne Collins' works, specifically, Sunrise on the Reaping! They discuss the depth of these YA dystopian novels, moments that hit for them, and things they could have lived without in the prequels.**This episode contains SPOILERS for all of The Hunger Games trilogy, The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, and Sunrise on the Reaping.***CW for the episode: discussions of death, authoritarianism, violence, gore, mutilation, abuse, propaganda, media manipulation, rebellions, war, revolution, poverty, social inequity*Media Mentions:The Hunger Games by Suzanne CollinsCatching Fire by Suzanne CollinsMockingjay by Suzanne CollinsThe Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne CollinsSunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne CollinsThe Hunger Games----HBOMaxThe Hunger Games: Catching Fire---HBOMaxThe Hunger Games: Mockingjay-Part 1---HBOMaxThe Hunger Games: Mockingjay-Part 2---HBOMaxThe Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes---STARZThey Came in the Night by Ravi NovaisBe sure to follow OWWR Pod!www.owwrpod.com Twitter (updates only): @OwwrPodBlueSky: @OwwrPodTikTok: @OwwrPodInstagram: @owwrpodThreads: @OwwrPodHive: @owwrpodSend us an email at: owwrpod@gmail.comCheck out OWWR Patreon: patreon.com/owwrpodOr join OWWR Discord! We'd love to chat with you!You can follow Hannah at:Instagram: @brews.and.booksThreads: @brews.and.booksTikTok: @brews.and.booksYou can follow Laura at:Instagram: @goodbooksgreatgoatsBlueSky: @myyypod
Send us a textK.F. Breene month continues with Shadowspell Academy. Next week: Warrior ChroniclesSummon us @DTFaePodcast We like our coffee icy and our books spicy! Oh, and we're totally Down To Fae. A podcast for fantasy romance readers and fans of authors like Sarah J. Maas, Jennifer L. Armentrout, Rebecca Yarros and Carissa Broadbent. Follow along as your delulu hosts discuss your favorite romantasy books in a chapter-by-chapter read, re-read or refresher.
Erica goes over a nice mix of new YA books by AAPI authors, while Kelly has a great convo with Erin Entrada Kelly and Kwame Mbalia, authors of the new rom-com On Again, Awkward Again. Subscribe to the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify. To get even more YA news and recommendations, sign up for our What's Up in YA 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. This content contains affiliate links. When you buy through these links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Books Discussed: Eliza, from Scratch by Sophia Lee Fitting Indian by Jyoti Chand, illustrated by Tara Anand Dragonfruit by Makiia Lucier When Devils Sing by Xan Kaur The Summer I Remembered Everything by Catherine Con Morse On Again, Awkward Again by Erin Entrada Kelly, Kwame Mbalia A Universe of Wishes edited by Dhonielle Clayton Black Boy Joy edited by Kwame Mbalia The White Guy Dies First edited by Terry J. Benton-Walker The Black Girl Survives in This One edited by Desiree S. Evans and Saraciea J. Fennell Highly Illogical Behavior by John Corey Whaley Then Again, Maybe I Won't by Judy Blume The Fell of Dark by Caleb Roehrig Darius The Great Is Not Okay by Adib Khorram Gabi, A Girl in Pieces by Isabel Quintero You Should See Me In a Crown by Leah Johnson Goodbye Stranger by Rebecca Stead Shine by Candy Gourlay Hurricane Child by Kacen Callender Hello Universe and Lalani of the Distant Sea by Erin Entrada Kelly Kaya Morgan's Crowning Achievement by Jill Tew Moko Magic: Carnival Chaos by Tracey Baptiste Kwame Mbalia's Freedom Fire imprint (more info) You can follow both Erin Entrada Kelly and Kwame Mbalia on Bluesky. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Send us a textHannah and Laura are cycling out of Oathbound by wrapping up their discussion of the book's characters and themes. They also chat about Laura's new book obsession, popular TV shows catering to fans, how Hannah is frustrated by some characters in her current read, and the movie Sinners.**This episode contains SPOILERS for Oathbound by Tracy Deonn. Spoiler section begins at: 39 minutes. ***CW for the episode: discussions of racism, violence, abuse, gore, kidnapping, colonialism, trauma, death, sexism, death of a parent, immigration, slavery, generational trauma*Media Mentions:Oathbound by Tracy DeonnLegendborn by Tracy DeonnBloodmarked by Tracy DeonnAndor---Disney+The Last of Us---HBOMaxThe Hunger of the Gods by John GwynneBattlestar Galactica---AppleTV+How Did This Get Made podcastThe Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott LynchThe Ending Fire by Saara El-ArifiSinnersTed Lasso---AppleTV+They Came in the Night by Ravi NovaisSuzanne Collins' worksRebecca Crunden's worksThe Dresden Files by Jim ButcherBe sure to follow OWWR Pod!www.owwrpod.com Twitter (updates only): @OwwrPodBlueSky: @OwwrPodTikTok: @OwwrPodInstagram: @owwrpodThreads: @OwwrPodHive: @owwrpodSend us an email at: owwrpod@gmail.comCheck out OWWR Patreon: patreon.com/owwrpodOr join OWWR Discord! We'd love to chat with you!You can follow Hannah at:Instagram: @brews.and.booksThreads: @brews.and.booksTikTok: @brews.and.booksYou can follow Laura at:Instagram: @goodbooksgreatgoatsBlueSky: @myyypod
Send us a textK.F. Breene month continues with "A Cage of Crimson" and "A Cage of Kingdoms," books 4 and 5 in the "Deliciously Dark Fairytales" series. Next week: Shadowspell Academy.Summon us @DTFaePodcast We like our coffee icy and our books spicy! Oh, and we're totally Down To Fae. A podcast for fantasy romance readers and fans of authors like Sarah J. Maas, Jennifer L. Armentrout, Rebecca Yarros and Carissa Broadbent. Follow along as your delulu hosts discuss your favorite romantasy books in a chapter-by-chapter read, re-read or refresher.
Send us a textHannah and Laura finish Oathbound and have many questions about the intimate scenes in the book. Yet, they have zero questions about the action scenes. Weird. They also chat about a fantastic biography, a new Taskmaster cast member, and how they just do not understand how money works.**This episode contains SPOILERS for Oathbound by Tracy Deonn. Spoiler section begins at: 33 min 10 secs. ***CW for the episode: discussions of racism, sexism, violence, abuse, blood, trafficking, torture, death, grief, sex, slavery, imprisonment, gore*Media Mentions:Legendborn by Tracy DeonnBloodmarked by Tracy DeonnOathbound by Tracy DeonnKing: A Life by Jonathan EigAndor---Disney+Taskmaster---AppleTVSeverance---AppleTVThe Simpsons---Disney+Evicted by Matthew DesmondA Song to Drown Rivers by Ann LiangThe Hidden Globe by Atossa Araxia AbrahamianHow Did This Get Made podcastHow I Met Your Mother---HuluThey Came in the Night by Ravi NovaisBe sure to follow OWWR Pod!www.owwrpod.com Twitter (updates only): @OwwrPodBlueSky: @OwwrPodTikTok: @OwwrPodInstagram: @owwrpodThreads: @OwwrPodHive: @owwrpodSend us an email at: owwrpod@gmail.comCheck out OWWR Patreon: patreon.com/owwrpodOr join OWWR Discord! We'd love to chat with you!You can follow Hannah at:Instagram: @brews.and.booksThreads: @brews.and.booksTikTok: @brews.and.booksYou can follow Laura at:Instagram: @goodbooksgreatgoatsBlueSky: @myyypod
We did it, y'all! We made it to the end(?) of our Hunger Games deep dive with SUNRISE ON THE REAPING by Suzanne Collins (until the movie release, of course) and the gang is all here! How does one even summarize this book/episode? It was so much more traumatic than I think any of us were expecting, but what a journey. We talk major lore, complex character arcs, trauma, recontextualizing the Hunger Games universe, unending despair, potential movie adaptation choices, more trauma, how President Snow can catch these hands, and yet more despair! Whew. Honestly, we're still not over it. REMINDER: Obvious spoilers for the entire Hunger Games universe, including speculation about the forthcoming movie adaptation of SUNRISE ON THE REAPING. If you haven't read this series yet -- babe, what are you even doing here?? Don't forget to rate and review us on iTunes, and if you have any suggestions for future episodes/books to cover, please don't hesitate to reach out to us via email or DM or carrier pigeon or raven or whatever method you prefer. We love to hear from you, and honestly we have no idea what we want to do next, so we'd love to know what YOU want to hear us talk about! As always, an enormous thanks to DJempirical for our fabulous theme music. Find us on the internet if you like: www.actyaage.com actyaage@gmail.com facebook.com/actyaage Find Corinne at instagram.com/rinne_reads Find Tasia at instagram.com/rageycakes Find Jessie at instagram.com/bookjessieisbetter Find Aubrey at instagram.com/aubsbobs Find Melissa at instagram.com/mellooyellowxx Find Liz at instagram.com/lizbistline17 Mentions: Fan Service by Rosie Danaan Sword Catcher by Cassandra Clare Ana and the Din series by Robert Jackson Bennett Wheel of Time (TV show) on Amazon Prime Our Infinite Fates by Laura Steven Vanderpump Rules on Bravo Summer House on Bravo Fetch Phillips Archives by Luke Arnold
Erica gets into some cutesy/cozy YA books, and Kelly speaks to Huda Fahmy about her fictionalized memoir series. Subscribe to the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify. To get even more YA news and recommendations, sign up for our What's Up in YA newsletter! Trust your reading list to the experts at Tailored Book Recommendations! The professional book nerds (aka bibliologists) at TBR have recommended over 160,000 books to readers of all kinds. Let TBR match you with your next favorite read! Simply fill out a quick survey about what you want more of in your reading life, and your bibliologist will scour their bookish knowledge to find three reads they think you'll love. Choose from receiving just the recommendations via email, or opt to have paperbacks or hardcovers delivered right to your door. Get started for only $18 at mytbr.co! This content contains affiliate links. When you buy through these links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Books Discussed If You'll Have Me by Eunnie I Shall Never Fall in Love: A Graphic Novel by Hari Conner If We Were a Movie by Zakiya N. Jamal Off Menu: A Graphic Novel by Oliver Gerlach, illustrated by Kelsi Jo Silva Delicious in Dungeon by Ryoko Kui If You're Not the One by Farah Naz Rishi Huda F Wants to Know by Huda Fahmy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices