Ep. 163 "The Book Club for Troublesome Women" by Marie Bostwick; "Ursula K. Le Guin's Book of Cats"

Transcript: JESSICA:  Hi, this is Jessica Russell. I'm the assistant director of collection services at Sno-Isle Libraries. And welcome to Book Buzz.  Today's two reading recommendations are "The Book Club for Troublesome Women" by Marie Bostwick and "Ursula K. Le Guin's Book of Cats."  First, we're going to hear from Robyn, librarian at the Stanwood Library, for a story of rule-breaking women. Over to you, Robyn.    ROBYN:  In a world where expectations are whispered … and rules are never questioned … one book club is about to turn the page.     Meet "The Book Club for Troublesome Women" by Marie Bostwick.    They came together for stories … but found something far more dangerous. Secrets. Power. And the courage to finally speak.   They were told to behave. To stay quiet. To drink tea. To fit in. But these women? They were never meant to follow the script.   These aren't your average ladies. They're complicated. Courageous. Maybe even a little dangerous to the status quo. And as the stakes rise, so does the question: what happens when women stop playing by the rules?   As friendships ignite and truths come spilling out, lines will be crossed … lives will be changed … and nothing will ever be the same. Because when women stop playing nice … the real story begins.    Packed with heart, and just the right amount of scandal, this may be the most rebellious read of the season. Join the club everyone's talking about. "The Book Club for Troublesome Women" – where the book club isn't the story … it's just the beginning.    JESSICA:  Thanks, Robyn! I'm on board for any historical fiction that celebrates strong women and deep connections.  Next, let's hear about a collection of tales dedicated entirely to our feline companions, from Jen, librarian at the Lake Stevens Library. Take it away, Jen.     JEN:  You may have read the prolific works of Ursula K. Le Guin, or heard her name in literary circles, BUT, did you know, in addition to revelatory, cerebral, often haunting ruminations on the human condition, she also drew comics about cats? Le Guin was inspired by her feline friends and their escapades over the years, exalting them in poetry and speculating on their conspiratorial communications.  Basically a zine with book binding, "Book of Cats" is an utter delight! An eclectic collection, full of Le Guin's doodles and musings on the temperament and behaviors of the cat companions she was caretaker to, this quick read is guaranteed to boost your mood. Whether you are a cat fanatic or not particularly fond of felines, have never heard of Le Guin, or know her to be a seminal author, anyone can appreciate these kitties' antics.  This compilation is also a vital reminder that you do not need to produce existential, profound works of art to be an artist, just create! Imperfectly and simply for the sake of expressing what is in your head and heart. The companionship of furry friends can aid in cultivating those creative juices, for, as Le Guin asserts, "the catless manuscript is not worth writing." So snuggle up to your pet pals, adopt, or borrow a friends', and bask in "Ursula K. Le Guin's Book of Cats."    JESSICA:  Thanks, Jen! It's comforting to know that one of the greatest minds in sci-fi and fantasy is a total cat person at heart, just like me.  Our recommendations this week are: "The Book Club for Troublesome Women" by Marie Bostwick and "Ursula K. Le Guin's Book of Cats."  Join us next time, when we'll explore more great reading recommendations — interesting books you can find at your favorite local bookstore or at your local library.    Until then, I'm Jessica Russell from Sno-Isle Libraries.   Thanks for joining us for Book Buzz.   [END]