Coast to Coast Books

We birthed the humans and we’re back guys! Join us for a full speed reunion this week as we chat about the 19 books we read since the last time we saw each other! Also featuring: Rosika confesses her shopaholic tendencies, Kristen goes all in on garden prep, and we admit we messed up the finer details of a time space wormhole.  Sing it from the steeple guys, the coast to coast besties are back!Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] Creators MentionedMarcella in the Marginshttps://www.youtube.com/@marcellainthemarginsKelly @kellyseeksbookshttps://www.youtube.com/@kellyseeksbooksJay at my0.25life crisishttps://www.youtube.com/@my0.25lifecrisis/videosBooks MentionedBlack Cake by Charmaine WilkersonThe Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins ReidThere Is No Antimemetics Division by qntmThat Time I Got Drunk and Yeeted a Love Potion at a Werewolf by Kimberly LemmingThat Time I Got Drunk and Saved a Demon by Kimberly LemmingFlat Broke with Two Goats by Jennifer McGahaMillionaire Mission by Brian PrestonVeronica Ruiz Breaks the Bank by Elle CosimanoFinlay Donovan Rolls the Dice by Elle CosimanoFinlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave by Elle CosimanoFinlay Donovan Crosses the Line by Elle CosimanoRevenge of the Tipping Point by Malcolm GladwellThe Tipping Point by Malcolm GladwellPick a Colour by Souvankham ThammavongsaConvenience Store Woman by Sayaka MurataThe Serviceberry by Robin Wall KimmererBraiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall KimmererGathering Moss by Robin Wall KimmererHeated Rivalry by Rachel ReidSoil: The Story of a Black Mother's Garden by Camille DungyHalf His Age by Jennette McCurdyI'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdyRed, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuistonThe Chilbury Ladies' Choir by Jennifer RyanThe Kitchen Front Jennifer RyanThe Underground Library by Jennifer RyanMahjong: House Rules from Across the Asian Diaspora by Nicole WongOne Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This by Omar El Akkad

In a tale stranger than fiction Rosika & Kristen are both feeling relatively awake and ready for this week’s episode! Join us this week as we look at the successes & fails of our past selves (complete with stats) and look toward what we want to achieve in 2026!Also featuring yelling about gift giving, lying to toddlers about the calendar, and celebrating one year of the show!P.S. We promise to get a swear jar for 2026.Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] Creators MentionedMarcella in the Marginshttps://www.youtube.com/@marcellainthemarginsKelly @kellyseeksbookshttps://www.youtube.com/@kellyseeksbooksJay at my0.25life crisishttps://www.youtube.com/@my0.25lifecrisis/videosBooks MentionedThe Skull by Jon KlassenSalt Sugar MSG by Calvin EngAlbatross by Terry FallisBraiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall KimmererHeartstopper by Alice OsemanLord of Chaos by Robert JordanThe Murderbot Diaries Vol. 1 by Martha WellsFeng Shui Modern by Cliff TanMaine Characters by Hannah OrensteinProblematic Summer Romance by Ali HazelwoodThe Storied Life of A. J. Fikry by Gabrielle ZevinGarlic and Sapphires by Ruth ReichlI'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy

Welcome as we perform a wellness check on Kristen deep in the heart of her maternity leave! Join us for a cohost reunion and talk about our favorite books of 2025! In other news: Rosika overthinks a sports metaphor, Kristen regals us with her birth story, we discuss the finer points of hospital go bags, midlife crisis earring updates, and the joys of hanging out with your best friend after far too long!Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] MentionedHeartstopper Books 3, 4, & 5 (Series) by Alice OsemanDating Dr. Dil by Nisha SharmaFinlay Donovan Is Killing It by Elle CosimanoPumpkinheads by Rainbow RowellScythe (series) by Neal ShustermanHowl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne JonesA Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky ChambersA Prayer for the Crown-Shy by Becky ChambersA Witch's Guide to Magical Innkeeping by Sangu MandannaKnow My Name by Chanel MillerThe Anxious Generation by Jonathan HaidtShark Heart by Emily HabeckSeconds by Bryan Lee O'MalleyNothing to See Here by Kevin WilsonThe Murderbot Diaries Vol. 1 by Martha WellsGarlic and Sapphires by Ruth ReichlThe Storied Life of A. J. Fikry by Gabrielle ZevinTomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle ZevinThe Anthropocene Reviewed by John Green

It the episode that explains most of Jay's personality, it's book obsessions time! In other news Jay is mistaken for an actual child, we explore the differences between your twenties and thirties, Rosika complains about nesting instinct bullshit, and we recount the cringey moments of our teenage youth! Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] MentionedKelly @kellyseeksbookshttps://www.youtube.com/@kellyseeksbooksJay at my0.25life crisishttps://www.youtube.com/@my0.25lifecrisis/videosBooks MentionedA Series of Unfortunate Events (series) by Lemony SnicketEmpire of AI by Karen HaoOne Last Stop by Casey McQuistonHairpin Bridge by Taylor AdamsNo Exit by Taylor AdamsThe Last Word by Taylor AdamsThe Kitchen Front by Jennifer RyanScythe (series) by Neal ShustermanDivergent by Veronica RothHarry Potter by J.K. RowlingThe Family Fang by Kevin WilsonNothing to See Here by Kevin WilsonBaby, You’re Gonna Be Mine by Kevin WilsonNow is Not the Time to Panic by Kevin Wilson

Join Rosika and special guest host Kelly as we dig deep into hypothetical bookshops and answer burning questions about the business of books! Side quests include Rosika’s jewelry related life crisis, artificial intelligence tries vegan cookery, & endlessly loving petty shots taken at our missing host Kristen!Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] Creators MentionedKelly @kellyseeksbookshttps://www.youtube.com/@kellyseeksbooksBooks MentionedThe Storied Life of A. J. Fikry by Gabrielle ZevinTomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle ZevinA Man Called Ove by Fredrik BackmanThe Westing Game by Ellen RaskinThe School for Good Mothers by Jessamine ChanWild by Cheryl StrayedHow to Break Up with Your Phone by Catherine Anne PriceThe Sound of a Wild Snail Eating by Elisabeth Tova BaileyA Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky ChambersA Prayer for the Crown-Shy by Becky ChambersBraiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall KimmererThe Backyard Bird Chronicles by Amy TanIn the FLO by Alisa VittiInciting Joy by Ross GayLet’s Pretend This Never Happened by Jenny LawsonPaladin's Grace by T. KingfisherThe Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu MandannaA Witch's Guide to Magical Innkeeping by Sangu MandannaThe House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ KluneThe Spellshop by Sarah Beth DurstThe Enchanted Greenhouse by Sarah Beth DurstLegends & Lattes by Travis BaldreeThe Starless Sea by Erin MorgensternSourdough by Robin SloanA Deadly Education by Naomi NovikHowl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne JonesYellowface by R. F. KuangHope in the Dark by Rebecca Solnit

Brace yourselves listeners! This very special episode Jay enters the Coast to Coast Books cinematic universe as a guest host! Join us this week as Jay and Rosika get emotionally vulnerable with the nostalgic bands of our youth and mortality. We also share some some extremely hot takes on books vs cinema!Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] Creators MentionedJay at my0.25life crisishttps://www.youtube.com/@my0.25lifecrisis/videosMarcella in the Marginshttps://www.youtube.com/@marcellainthemarginsKelly @kellyseeksbookshttps://www.youtube.com/@kellyseeksbooksBooks MentionedSave the Date by Allison RaskinThe Weavers of Alamaxa by Hadeer ElsbaiThe Daughters of Izdihar by Hadeer ElsbaiBeing Mortal by Atul GawandeParable of the Sower by Octavia E. ButlerParable of the Talents by Octavia E. ButlerThe Enchanted Greenhouse by Sarah Beth DurstThe School for Good Mothers by Jessamine ChanThe Handmaid's Tale by Margaret AtwoodBook Lovers by Emily HenryBeach Read by Emily HenryPeople We Meet on Vacation by Emily HenryThe Tenant of Wildfell Hall by Anne BrontëJane Eyre by Charlotte BrontëSeduced by Pamela BrittonA Room with a View by E. M. ForsterThe Gentleman's Gambit by Evie DunmoreThe Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue by Mackenzi LeeThe Maze Runner by James DashnerThe Devil Wears Prada by Lauren WeisbergerThe Princess Diaries by Meg CabotMemoirs of a Geisha by Arthur GoldenThe Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre DumasStardust by Neil GaimanHowl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne JonesPride and Prejudice by Jane AustenRita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption by Stephen KingFive Survive by Holly JacksonMy Sister, the Serial Killer by Oyinkan BraithwaiteAn Absolutely Remarkable Thing by Hank GreenChain-Gang All-Stars by Nana Kwame Adjei-BrenyahA Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky ChambersSeconds by Bryan Lee O'MalleyThe Starless Sea by Erin MorgensternDivergent by Veronica RothThe Hunger Games by Suzanne CollinsShadow and Bone by Leigh BardugoSix of Crows by Leigh BardugoHarry Potter by J.K. RowlingThe Hobbit by J. R. R.TolkienCharlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald DahlMatilda by Roald Dahl

Kelly crosses through the fourth wall and enters the pod! Join us this week as we reach back through time to find the books that explain our current bookish selves and maybe Kelly’s obsession with North Korea? Also featuring debates over the finer points of personal 5 star scales, strikes in healthcare, and mediocre murder mysteries.Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] MentionedKelly @kellyseeksbookshttps://www.youtube.com/@kellyseeksbooksKelly's non-sober review of 1Q84https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63Vt9o1RCr0Kelly's epic obsession with North Koreahttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FCMsHLyMvzIJay at my0.25life crisishttps://www.youtube.com/@my0.25lifecrisis/videosMarcella in the Marginshttps://www.youtube.com/@marcellainthemarginsBooks Mentioned1Q84 by Haruki MurakamiKnow My Name by Chanel MillerFrankenstein by Mary ShelleyPride and Prejudice by Jane Austen by TJ KluneSomewhere Beyond the Sea by TJ KluneHow to Solve Your Own Murder by Kristen PerrinLord of the Flies by William GoldingDivergent by Veronica RothUntamed by Glennon DoyleLove Warrior by Glennon DoyleForward by Abby WambachHouse of Stairs by William SleatorRedwall by brian jacquesMossflower by Brian JacquesTriss by Brian JacquesThe Redwall Cookbook by Brian JacquesIf I Should Die Before I Wake by Han NolanElizabeth I: Red Rose of the House of Tudor by Kathryn LaskyCleopatra VII: Daughter of the Nile, Egypt, 57 B.C. by Kristiana GregoryAnastasia: The Last Grand Duchess, Russia, 1914 by Carolyn MeyerNzingha: Warrior Queen of Matamba, Angola, Africa, 1595 by Patricia McKissackThe Berenstain Bears Learn About Strangers by Stan and Jan BerenstainThe Song of the Lioness Series by Tamora PierceThe Immortals Book Series by Tamora Pierce

Join us this week as two very pregnant readers (for once not nauseous) Kristen and Rosika wax poetical on food related reads! Also featuring tomato-geddon, maternity leave gift giving, and questionable audiobook accent work!Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] MentionedHeartstopper Vol 2 by Alice OsemanMaame by Jessica GeorgeBorn A Crime by Trevor NoahThe Kamogawa Food Detectives by Hisashi KashiwaiShin'ya Shokudō (aka Midnight Diner) by Yarō AbeThe Hobbit by John Ronald Reuel TolkienHarry Potter Novel (series) by J.K. RowlingA Game of Thrones (series) by George R. R. MartinRedwall (series) by Brian JacquesThe Redwall Cookbook by Brian JacquesThe Chronicles of Narnia (series) by C.S. LewisButter by Asako YuzukiAutomatic Noodle by Annalee NewitzGarlic and Sapphires by Ruth ReichlTender at the Bone by Ruth ReichlVera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers by Jesse Q. SutantoThe Golden Spoon by Jessa MaxwellThe Kitchen Front by Jennifer RyanThat Sounds So Good by Carla Lalli Music

The episode that goes completely off the rails: featuring gastrointestinal distress, missing wheel related head injuries, hostile gummy bear negotiations, and a book argument between two people who definitely still love each other…?! Join us this week as Rosika & Kristen lose all control over the plot of the show!Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] Creators MentionedKelly @kellyseeksbookshttps://www.youtube.com/@kellyseeksbooksBooks MentionedRental House by Weike WangThe School for Good Mothers by Jessamine ChanTomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle ZevinThe Handmaid's Tale by Margaret AtwoodChain-Gang All-Stars by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah

Join Rosika and Kristen this week as they dig into their favorite autumnal books! Also featuring being haunted by our acid reflux, the rock bands of our emo youths, and the never ending TBR! Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] Points // if you have a Victober reading recommendation for Rosika this week! Creators MentionedKelly @kellyseeksbookshttps://www.youtube.com/@kellyseeksbooksBooks MentionedBeach Read by Emily HenryFunny Story by Emily HenryMaine Characters by Hannah OrensteinJust Mercy by Bryan StevensonKnow My Name by Chanel MillerThe Backyard Bird Chronicles by Amy TanThe Joy Luck Club by Amy TanSaving Fish From Drowning by Amy TanThe Bonesetter's Daughter by Amy TanUntamed by Glennon DoyleWorld War Z by Max BrooksThe Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu MandannaA Witch's Guide to Magical Innkeeping by Sangu MandannaThe Spellshop by Sarah Beth DurstThe Troop by Craig DavidsonLord of the Flies by William GoldingPumpkinheads by Rainbow Rowell and Faith Erin HicksNinth House by Leigh BardugoShadow and Bone by Leigh BardugoSix of Crows by Leigh BardugoJane Eyre by Charlotte BrontëFahrenheit 451 by Ray BradburySomething Wicked This Way Comes by Ray BradburyThe Halloween Tree by Ray BradburyThe Haunting of Hill House by Shirley JacksonThe Time Machine by H. G. Wells

Join us for this weeks episode as we kiss 2025 75% goodbye! We check in on all the book goals Kristen and Rosika’s past selves made in their optimistic New Year’s enthusiasm! Also featuring off topic highlights of optical illusion clothing and the seafood spread at Chinese weddings!Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] Creators MentionedKelly @kellyseeksbookshttps://www.youtube.com/@kellyseeksbooksJay at my0.25life crisishttps://www.youtube.com/@my0.25lifecrisis/videosRosika’s Unhinged Diaper Science Book Review Video and Whiskey Rantshttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TH5B4FEmdHQ&t=1066sBooks MentionedHeartstopper Vol 1. by Alice OsemanFair Play by Louise HegartyFair Play by Eve RodskyButter by Asako YuzukiMemoirs of a Teenage Amnesiac by Gabrielle ZevinTomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle ZevinThe Storied Life of A. J. Fikry by Gabrielle ZevinAll Systems Red (The Murderbot Diaries Vol 1.) by Martha WellsArtificial Condition (The Murderbot Diaries Vol 2.) by Martha WellsKnow My Name: A Memoir by Chanel Miller

Hop in for this week’s episode as Rosika and Kristen catch up after 2 weeks off the show. We cover everything from recent reads to butt whistles & leeches! Bonus plot twist at the end of the episode! P.s. Kelly and Marcella: Rosika wants you to know she still hasn’t managed to send either of your mail packages and feels great shame reverberating to her ancestors.Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] MentionedMarcella in the Marginshttps://www.youtube.com/@marcellainthemarginsKelly @kellyseeksbookshttps://www.youtube.com/@kellyseeksbooksJay at my0.25life crisishttps://www.youtube.com/@my0.25lifecrisis/videosBooks MentionedThe Murderbot Diaries by Martha WellsAlbatross by Terry FallisCaptain Corelli's Mandolin by Louis de BernièresThe War of Don Emmanuel's Nether Parts by Louis de BernièresUpgrade by Blake CrouchFlowers for Algernon by Daniel KeyesDark Matter by Blake CrouchRecursion by Blake CrouchTomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle ZevinThe School for Good Mothers by Jessamine ChanThe River Has Roots by Amal El-MohtarThis Is How You Lose the Time War by Amal El-Mohtar and Max GladstoneKnow My Name by Chanel MillerPaladin's Grace by T. KingfisherAutomatic Noodle by Annalee Newitz

Ever wanted to hear the story of how Kristen and Rosika met and became friends? It involves binder envy, the plague years, and cardio friendly van kidnapping. Also featuring happily diving deep into our fan mail bag and come up holding mad cow and the unforeseen downsides of spicy leaves?Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] Creators MentionedKelly @kellyseeksbookshttps://www.youtube.com/@kellyseeksbooksJay at my0.25life crisishttps://www.youtube.com/@my0.25lifecrisis/videosBooks MentionedHow to Keep House While Drowning by KC DavisHow to Break Up with Your Phone by Catherine Anne PriceTiny Beautiful Things by Cheryl StrayedWild by Cheryl StrayedUntamed by Glennon Doyle

Coming at you live from our beach house coffee table! Rosika and Kristen combine toddler wrangling skills and manage to record an episode on our in-person bookish adventures! Tune in this episode to hear all about our escapades through west coast independent bookstores!Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] Creators MentionedKelly @kellyseeksbookshttps://www.youtube.com/@kellyseeksbooksJay at my0.25life crisishttps://www.youtube.com/@my0.25lifecrisis/videosBooks MentionedThe Blanket Cats by Kiyoshi ShigematsuWe'll Prescribe You a Cat by Syou IshidaKnow My Name by Chanel MillerThe Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C. S. LewisSkunk and Badger by Amy Timberlake, Illustrated by Jon KlassenThe Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien, Illustrated by Jemima CatlinThe Backyard Bird Chronicles by Amy TanThe Joy Luck Club by Amy TanThe Bonesetter's Daughter by Amy TanThe Kitchen God's Wife by Amy TanBraiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall KimmererDisappointing Affirmations by Dave TarnowskiWhat You Are Looking For Is in the Library by Michiko AoyamaSalt Sugar MSG by Calvin EngPaladin's Grace by T. KingfisherA Wizard's Guide to Defensive Baking by T. KingfisherCan't Spell Treason Without Tea by Rebecca ThorneCurious George by H. A. ReyThe Last Dragon in Moominvalley by Cecilia HeikkiläThe Gruffalo by Julia DonaldsonThe Barnabus Project by Devin Fan and Terry FanThe Skull: A Tyrolean Folktale by Jon KlassenThe Wisteria Society of Lady Scoundrels by India Holton

In this episode Kristen accidentally does Rosika AND the pod dirty! Featuring: unusual amounts if peppy chattiness, beach book hauls, tomato overload, meat of the pot and true love is chili crisp? Show will be on hiatus the next two weeks as Rosika & Kristen get to hang out in real life!Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] Creators MentionedKelly @kellyseeksbookshttps://www.youtube.com/@kellyseeksbooksJay at my0.25life crisishttps://www.youtube.com/@my0.25lifecrisis/videosBooks MentionedThe Asian Barbecue Book By Alex SkariaDinner in French by Melissa ClarkA Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky ChambersThe Murderbot Diaries by Martha WellsAutomatic Noodle by Annalee NewitzThe Blue Bistro by Elin HilderbrandThe Five-Star Weekend by Elin HilderbrandWhen Life Gives You Lululemons by Lauren WeisbergerThe Devil Wears Prada by Lauren WeisbergerThe Princess Diaries by Meg CabotUpgrade by Blake CrouchDark Matter by Blake CrouchRecursionl by Blake CrouchA Beautifully Foolish Endeavor by Hank GreenJingo by Terry PratchettHaiku in English: The First Hundred Years by Jim Kacian, Philip Rowland & Allan BurnsCaptain Corelli's Mandolin by Louis de Bernières

Join Kristen and Rosika for this weeks episode as they discuss recommendations and TBRs for Women in Translation Month! Also featuring questionable wardrobe choices, accidentally settling someone else’s marriage argument about missing jewelry, a desired Christmas book flood and Nutella?Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] Creators MentionedKelly @kellyseeksbookshttps://www.youtube.com/@kellyseeksbooksJay at my0.25life crisishttps://www.youtube.com/@my0.25lifecrisis/videosHank Green’s Pride and Prejudice akaThe Lizzie Bennet Diarieshttps://www.youtube.com/@LizzieBennetBooks MentionedThe Blue Bistro by Elin HilderbrandWhen Life Gives You Lululemons by Lauren WeisbergerBloodmarked by Tracy DeonnLegendborn by Tracy DeonnHamlet by William ShakespeareThe Catcher in the Rye by J. D. SalingerTwelfth Night by William ShakespeareConvenience Store Woman by Sayaka MurataMs Ice Sandwich by Mieko KawakamiBreasts and Eggs by Mieko KawakamiThe Nakano Thrift Shop by Hiromi KawakamiButter by Asako YuzukiDiary of a Void by Emi YagiQuicksand by Malin Persson GiolitoThe Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg LarssonStolen by Ann-Helén LaestadiusMy Pen Is the Wing of a Bird by Afghan WomenSweet Bean Paste by Tetsuya AkikawaThe Nightingale by Kristin HannahOnyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros

Birthdays, book fails, and unsolicited compliments abound on this weeks episode! Rosika finds her favorite book of the year and Kristen raves about two new reads!Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] MentionedJay at my0.25life crisishttps://www.youtube.com/@my0.25lifecrisis/videosMarcella in the Marginshttps://www.youtube.com/@marcellainthemarginsBooks MentionedFinlay Donovan Jumps the Gun by Elle CosimanoA Witch's Guide to Magical Innkeeping by Sangu MandannaThe Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu MandannaThe Five-Star Weekend by Elin HilderbrandSweet Bean Paste by Tetsuya AkikawaNothing to See Here by Kevin WilsonSuch a Fun Age by Kiley ReidThe Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet by Becky ChambersThe Night Alphabet by Joelle TaylorAnxious People by Fredrik BackmanTender at the Bone by Ruth ReichlGarlic and Sapphires by Ruth Reichl

Join us this week as Rosika & Kristen deep dive into the much maligned genre of Self Help books! Also featuring the itching plague of the week and medieval wench wear? Not to be missed!Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] Creators MentionedKelly @kellyseeksbookshttps://www.youtube.com/@kellyseeksbooksJay at my0.25life crisishttps://www.youtube.com/@my0.25lifecrisis/videosBooks MentionedAn Absolutely Remarkable Thing by Hank GreenMonk and Robot Series by Becky ChambersThe Red Threads of Fortune by Neon YangHow to Break Up with Your Phone by Catherine Anne PriceThe Anxious Generation by Jonathan HaidtHow to Do Nothing by Jenny OdellWhat to Expect When You're Expecting by Heidi MurkoffExpecting Better by Emily OsterCribsheet by Emily OsterThe Family Firm by Emily OsterBringing Up Bebe by Pamela DruckermanHow to Keep House While Drowning by KC DavisFair Play by Eve Rodsky

This week on our gardening, I MEAN books podcast… Rosika and Kristen talk about what makes the perfect beach & vacation read. Also featuring aggressively  pollinating your vegetables, pyrotechnics of all varieties, crying in mattress stores, DNFs, and oh yeah GARDENING STUFF!Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] Creators MentionedKelly @kellyseeksbookshttps://www.youtube.com/@kellyseeksbooksJay at my0.25life crisishttps://www.youtube.com/@my0.25lifecrisis/videosBooks MentionedLegendborn by Tracy DeonnThe God of the Woods by Liz MooreOne Last Stop by Casey McQuistonRed, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuistonHalf a Soul by Olivia AtwaterFinlay Donovan Knocks 'Em Dead by Elle CosimanoDeep End by Ali HazelwoodAlexander Hamilton by Ron ChernowGlory Be by Danielle ArceneauxVera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers by Jesse Q. SutantoCrazy Rich Asians by Kevin KwanThe Hotel Nantucket by Elin HilderbrandOne Perfect Couple by Ruth WareA Witches Guide to Magical Innkeeping by Sangu Mandanna

Join Kristen and Rosika for this weeks stabby episode on one of our favorite genres: Thrillers! Side quests include Rosika becoming a tea monk, being tortured by Billy Joel, fun facts about a maybe mythological creature, and our questionable teenage obsessions with Russell Crowe & Gerard Butler.Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] MentionedThe Black Tides of Heaven by Neon YangIron Widow by Xiran Jay ZhaoHeart Berries by Terese Marie MailhotBraiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall KimmererSurvive the Night by Riley SagerThe Only One Left by Riley SagerThe Last Word by Taylor AdamsHairpin Bridge by Taylor AdamsNo Exit by Taylor AdamsOne by One by Ruth WareAnd Then There Were None by Agatha ChristieZero Days by Ruth WareUpgrade by Blake CrouchRecursion by Blake CrouchGoing Zero by Anthony McCartenTimeline by Michael Crichton

In this week's episode Kristen and Rosika wave the rainbow flag on the pod and recommend some great queer stories! Also celebrating are many many toddler parenting fails!Apologies from Rosika for the mic quality on her mic. She might have forgot to click the save button on her recording and was forced to use the backup audio. Bonus hot mic moment of her realization of this at the end of the episode.Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] Creators MentionedKelly @kellyseeksbookshttps://www.youtube.com/@kellyseeksbooksJay at my0.25life crisishttps://www.youtube.com/@my0.25lifecrisis/videosjay blowing up my phone with Vera Wong textshttps://www.youtube.com/shorts/W8-zUPMhc5IBooks MentionedMika in Real Life by Emiko JeanAn Absolutely Remarkable Thing by Hank GreenThe Heaven & Earth Grocery Store by James McBrideGreat Big Beautiful Life by Emily HenryBeach Read by Emily HenryThe Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins ReidProblematic Summer Romance by Ali HazelwoodDeep End by Ali HazelwoodVera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers by Jesse Q. SutantoRed, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuistonThe House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ KluneThe Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha ShannonA Day of Fallen Night by Samantha ShannonPet by Akwaeke EmeziSnapdragon by Kat LeyhA Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky ChambersA Prayer for the Crown-Shy by Becky ChambersThe Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet by Becky ChambersHeartstopper (series) by Alice Oseman

In this episode Rosika & Kristen explore stories of rebellion, subversion, and dissent. Also featuring: an epically bad reading week, top tips for competitive eating at Brazilian steakhouses, and tales from severely under-cooking an underbaked half marathon!Creators Mentionedkelly @kellyseeksbookshttps://www.youtube.com/@kellyseeksbooksBooks MentionedLord of Chaos by Robert JordanThe Heaven & Earth Grocery Store by James McBrideGreat Big Beautiful Life by Emily HenryBeach Read by Emily HenryBook Lovers by Emily HenryProblematic Summer Romance by Ali HazelwoodA Prayer for the Crown-Shy by Becky ChambersMy Lady's Choosing: An Interactive Romance Novel by Kitty Curran and Larissa ZagerisMistborn (Series) by Brandon SandersonA Good Time for the Truth: Race in Minnesota Edited by Sun Yung ShinChain-Gang All-Stars by Nana Kwame Adjei-BrenyahMy Own Words by Mary Hartnett, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and Wendy W. WilliamsBrave New World by Aldous HuxleyFahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury1984 by George OrwellThe Moon Is a Harsh Mistress by Robert A. HeinleinPet by Akwaeke Emezi

In which the ladies discuss reading classics while Kristen goes full coastal elite and Rosika embraces dirty granola living. Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] MentionedLord of Chaos by Robert JordanKlara and the Sun by Kazuo IshiguroA Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky ChambersA Prayer for the Crown-Shy by Becky ChambersVera Wong's Guide to Snooping (on a Dead Man) by Jesse Q. SutantoTo Be Taught, If Fortunate by Becky ChambersProblematic Summer Romance by Ali HazelwoodThe Hunchback of Notre-Dame by Victor HugoDracula by Bram StokerBeowulf by UnknownPride and Prejudice by Jane AustenThe Great Gatsby by F. Scott FitzgeraldThe Handmaid's Tale by Margaret AtwoodThe Pearl by John SteinbeckOf Mice and Men by John SteinbeckFahrenheit 451 by Ray BradburyHeidi by Johanna SpyriA Christmas Carol by Charles DickensWuthering Heights by Emily BrontëJane Eyre by Charlotte BrontëAnne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud MontgomeryUpstream: Selected Essays by Mary OliverLong Life: Essays And Other Writings by Mary OliverThe Metamorphosis by Franz KafkaRomeo and Juliet by William ShakespeareHamlet by William ShakespeareThe Tragedie of Macbeth by William ShakespeareThe Tenant of Wildfell Hall by Anne Brontë

In which Kristen and Rosika grapple with the New Year’s book goals they made six months ago and are maybe a tiny bit succeeding? Featuring digging a hole, slogging through a mountain of mulch, and hilarious comments from our lovely listeners.Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] MentionedMarcella in the Marginshttps://www.youtube.com/@marcellainthemarginsJay at my0.25life crisishttps://www.youtube.com/@my0.25lifecrisis/videosBooks MentionedLord of Chaos by Robert JordanSunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne CollinsThe Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne CollinsChain-Gang All-Stars by Nana Kwame Adjei-BrenyahYellowface by R. F. KuangVera Wong's Guide to Snooping (on a Dead Man) by Jesse Q. SutantoThe God of the Woods by Liz MooreThe Seven Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle by Stuart TurtonProject Hail Mary by Andy WeirBraiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall KimmererSweet Bean Paste by Tetsuya Akikawa

Join us this week as Kristen and Rosika dive into books which are historically underrepresented by the publishing industry and mainstream culture. Featuring near death experiences, climbing mulch mountain, and overthinking it. Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] MentionedThe Anthropocene Reviewed by John GreenBraiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall KimmererMe Before You by Jojo MoyesLord of Chaos by Robert JordanCrying in H Mart by Michelle ZaunerPachinko by Min Jin LeeThe Joy Luck Club by Amy TanAmerican Born Chinese by Gene Luen YangYellowface by R. F. KuangAs Long as the Lemon Trees Grow by Zoulfa KatouhHomegoing by Yaa GyasiThe Namesake by Jhumpa LahiriStolen by Ann-Helén LaestadiusDiary of a Void by Emi YagiThe Bandit Queens by Parini Shroff

Join us this episode as we revisit the manga of Rosika’s youth and the anime of Kristen’s past! Also featuring: stealing garden supplies from daycare, the Florida weave, and Rosika’s intense confidence in all situations.Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] MentionedMarcella in the Marginshttps://www.youtube.com/@marcellainthemarginsBooks MentionedGarlic and Sapphires by Ruth ReichlLord of Chaos by Robert JordanMushishi by Yuki UrushibaraRanma ½ by Rumiko TakahashiFullmetal Alchemist by Hiromu Arakawa (Brotherhood for the anime!)Fruits Basket by Natsuki TakayaDelicious in Dungeon by Ryoko KuiBleach by Tite KuboMaison Ikkoku by Rumiko Takahashi

What are the biggest red flags you could wave as a reader? Is it reading habits? Reading taste? Or some new horror? Kristen and Rosika wave their bookish red flags proudly for all to see and laugh at!Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] Wheel of Time book bundle mentione d was from Humble Bundle, that sale did end before the episode aired https://www.humblebundle.comCreators MentionedMarcella in the Marginshttps://www.youtube.com/@marcellainthemarginsJay at my0.25life crisishttps://www.youtube.com/@my0.25lifecrisis/videosJack Edwardshttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j2s31vS3H7IBooks MentionedTwo for Me, One for You by Jörg MühleThe Knight with No Bottom by Levina van TeunenbroekI Want My Hat Back by Jon KlassenThe Skull: A Tyrolean Folktale by Jon KlassenThe Anthropocene Reviewed by John GreenVera Wong's Guide to Snooping (on a Dead Man) by Jesse Q. SutantoLord of Chaos by Robert JordanConclave by Robert HarrisThe Da Vinci Code by Dan BrownThat Sounds So Good by Carla Lalli MusicFifty Shades Of Grey by E. L. JamesThe Catcher in the Rye by J. D. SalingerLord of the Flies by William GoldingTwilight by Stephenie Meyer

This week Rosika may or may not have pushed for this episode so she can tell the story of how a very random book changed her life in an incredibly niche way. Featuring brain tricks, doing way too much, and cake emergencies!Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] Books MentionedLord of Chaos by Robert JordanVera Wong's Guide to Snooping (on a Dead Man) by Jesse Q. SutantoDial A for Aunties by Jesse Q. SutantoI'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdyThe Anthropocene Reviewed: Essays on a Human-Centered Planet by John GreenOrbital by Samantha HarveyYo, Millard Fillmore! by Mark Alvarez and Will ClevelandThe Pearl by John SteinbeckA Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. MaasThe Golden Spoon by Jessa Maxwell

Join us this episode as Rosika reveals to Kristen the very undramatic and mundane reasons she left her tiny BookTube show for this podcast!Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] MentionedBooks Unboundhttps://www.booksunboundpodcast.com/Marcella in the Marginshttps://www.youtube.com/@marcellainthemarginsJay at my0.25life crisishttps://www.youtube.com/@my0.25lifecrisis/videosBooks MentionedCyrus the Unsinkable Sea Serpent by Bill PeetWildflower by Drew BarrymoreFinlay Donovan Is Killing It by Elle CosimanoLord of Chaos by Robert JordanKiss Her Once for Me by Alison CochrunI'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdyThe Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien

Join us this episode as Kristen & Rosika combine their mom brains to make a list of books for tiny humans that are actually…. good? Because the tater tots need literature too.Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] MentionedMarcella in the Marginshttps://www.youtube.com/@marcellainthemarginsBooks MentionedThe Anthropocene Reviewed: Essays on a Human-Centered Planet by John GreenThe Spellshop by Sarah Beth DurstChain-Gang All-Stars by Nana Kwame Adjei-BrenyahLord of Chaos by Robert JordanWildflower by Drew BarrymoreI Want My Hat Back by Jon KlassenThis Is Not My Hat by Jon KlassenWe Found a Hat by Jon KlassenMoo, Baa, La La La! by Sandra Boynton The Whales on the Bus by Katrina CharmanCar, Car, Truck, Jeep by Katrina CharmanGo, Go, Pirate Boat by Katrina CharmanA color of his own by Leo LionniDream Animals: A Bedtime Journey by Emily Winfield MartinDay Dreamers: A Journey of Imagination by Emily Winfield MartinWhere Is the Green Sheep? by Mem FoxLittle Owl's Night by Divya SrinivasanExtra Yarn by Mac Barnett and Jon KlassenMiss Spider's Tea Party by David KirkSam and Dave Dig a Hole by Mac Barnett and Jon KlassenAll Aboard the Alaska Train by Brooke HartmanIf You Give a Moose a Muffin by Laura Numeroff and Felicia BondIf You Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Numeroff and Felicia BondThe Three Billy Goats Gruffby Mac Barnett and Jon KlassenNo Kimchi for Me! by Aram KimRosie the Dragon and Charlie Make Waves by Lauren H. Kerstein

Featuring poop, toddler related narcolepsy, and... bees? Join in for the ride on this weeks episode as Rosika and Kristen are yanked to and fro by life while taking the Reader Problems Tag!Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] Creators MentionedVee @ TheSassyLibraryFox⁠https://www.youtube.com/@TheSassyLibraryFox⁠The Reader Problems tag was created by About to ReadLexie @newlynova https://www.youtube.com/@newlynovaBooks MentionedOh Crap! Potty Training: Everything Modern Parents Need to Know to Do It Once and Do It Right by Jamie GlowackiBreasts and Eggs by Mieko KawakamiChain-Gang All-Stars by Nana Kwame Adjei-BrenyahKim Ji-young, Born 1982 by Cho Nam-juNotes on an Execution: A Novel by Danya KukafkaYellowface by R. F. KuangThe Poppy War by R. F. KuangBabel, or the Necessity of Violence by R. F. KuangThe Tea Dragon Society by Kay O'NeillTomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle ZevinOnyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros

To prepare for a plot vs vibes fight; Rosika reads an over the top cottagecore romantasy and Kristen reads a gladiatorial dystopia metaphor for America’s broken prison system. In subplot Rosika makes a questionable hair choice and Kristen discovers chamoy? Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] MentionedMarcella in the Marginshttps://www.youtube.com/@marcellainthemarginsBooks MentionedChain-Gang All-Stars by Nana Kwame Adjei-BrenyahThe Hunger Games by Suzanne CollinsThe Handmaid's Tale by Margaret AtwoodCrying in H Mart by Michelle ZaunerBreasts and Eggs by Mieko KawakamiMs Ice Sandwich by Mieko Kawakami1Q84 by Haruki MurakamiThe Spellshop by Sarah Beth DurstAvalon: Web of Magic Series by Rachel RobertsThe Starless Sea by Erin MorgensternThe Night Circus by Erin MorgensternLegends & Lattes by Travis BaldreeThe House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ KlunePiranesi by Susanna ClarkeThe Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu MandannaPachinko by Min Jin Lee

Join us this week as Kristen and Rosika explore the world of audiobooks! What makes an audiobook amazing and what makes one crash and burn? Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] MentionedMarcella in the Marginshttps://www.youtube.com/@marcellainthemarginsBooks MentionedTomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle ZevinEverything Is Tuberculosis by John GreenThe Anthropocene Reviewed by John GreenPaper Towns by John GreenFault in Our Stars by John GreenAn Abundance of Katherines by John GreenLooking for Alaska by John GreenThe Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins ReidThe Last Word by Taylor AdamsNotes on an Execution by Danya KukafkaChain-Gang All-Stars by Nana Kwame Adjei-BrenyahHunger Games by Suzanne CollinsBeowulf by UnknownHow to Say Babylon by Safiya SinclairHomegoing by Yaa GyasiCrying in H Mart by Michelle ZaunerKitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly by Anthony BourdainDear Girls by Ali WongBraiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall KimmererI'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdyKnife: Meditations After an Attempted Murder by Salman RushdieMistborn by Brandon SandersonThe Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkien Sadie by Courtney SummersDaisy Jones and The Six by Taylor Jenkins ReidLincoln in the Bardo by George SaundersThe Empyrean Series by Rebecca YarrowA Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. MaasShades of Magic Series by V.E. SchwabShadow and Bone Series by Leigh BardugoThe Wheel of Time Series by Robert Jordan

This week on the pod our hosts faced endless real life hurdles including ants, sleep deprivation, toddler tantrums, book slumps, and gardening related misery.  Join Rosika & Kristen as they throw in the towel on productivity and enjoy catching up on books & life instead.Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] MentionedMarcella in the Marginshttps://www.youtube.com/@marcellainthemarginsBooks MentionedSecond Nature by Micheal PollenThe Garden Against Time by Olivia LangCooked by Micheal PollenY the Last Man by Brian K. VaughnHow to Say Babylon by Safiya SinclairEducated by Tara WestoverBorn a Crime by Trevor NoahSeven Days in June by Tia WilliamsGirl in Snow by Danya KukafkaNotes on an Execution by Danya KukafkaThe Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins ReidDaisy Jones and the Six by Taylor Jenkins ReidMalibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins ReidSnuggle Puppy by Sandra Boynton

In this episode we experiment with what you learn when you read your best friend’s favorite books! Rosika reads Kristen’s favorite books of the last decade and as a thank you Kristen accuses Rosika of being an ecoterrorist. Besties! Also if you couldn’t tell Rosika writes these, lol. Wanna write in to the show? email us at:[email protected] MentionedIf you wanted to see what Rosika’s face looks like: Rosika’s Youtube Vlog on Seven Days in June https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mTzAIDktb8I&t=35sBooks MentionedY The Last Man: vol 2 by Brian K. VaughanGarden Against Time by Olivia LangSecond Nature by Micheal Pollen Cooked by Micheal PollenHow to Say Babylon by Safiya SinclairEducated by Tara WestoverBraiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall KimmererSeven Days in June by Tia WilliamsPachinko by Min Jin LeeNorth Woods by Daniel MasonThe Library at Mount Char by Scott HawkinsAmerican Gods by Neil GaimanNeverwhere by Neil GaimanStardust by Neil GaimanNotes on an Execution by Danya KukafkaThe House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Kline

In this episode we borrow an idea from the lovely podcast Books Unbound to do our Quarterly check in on our 2025 book goals. But more importantly, Rosika commits a DRAMATIC book betrayal on her bestie!Creators MentionedBooks Unboundhttps://www.booksunboundpodcast.com/Marcella in the Marginshttps://www.youtube.com/@marcellainthemarginsJay at my0.25life crisishttps://www.youtube.com/@my0.25lifecrisis/videosBooks MentionedNotes on an Execution by Danya KukafkaTomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle ZevinThe Storied Life of A. J. Fikry by Gabrielle ZevinThe Handmaid's Tale by Margaret AtwoodRed, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuistonThe Spirit Bares Its Teeth by Andrew Joseph WhiteAugust Kitko and the Mechas from Space by Alex WhiteProject Hail Mary By Andy Weir

In this episode Kristen and Rosika tackle a difficult topic; what should we do about authors who are problematic people or whose work is problematic? What is our responsibility as ordinary readers? Creators MentionedLexie newly novahttps://www.youtube.com/@newlynovaMarcella in the Marginshttps://www.youtube.com/@marcellainthemarginsJay at my0.25life crisishttps://www.youtube.com/@my0.25lifecrisis/videosBooks MentionedThe Tea Dragon Society by Kay O'NeillSeconds by Bryan Lee O'MalleyScott Pilgrim by Bryan Lee O'Malley“Wildfire Johnny” short story in Baby You’re Gonna be Mine by Kevin WilsonGiant Days by John Allison, Max Sarin and Lissa TreimanY the Last Man by Brian K. Vaughan and Pia Guerra The Spirit Bares Its Teeth by Andrew Joseph WhiteNotes on an Execution by Danya KukafkaThe Power by Naomi AldermanHarry Potter by J.K. RowlingHarry Potter and the Cursed Child by J. K. Rowling, Jack Thorne, and John TiffanyThe Sandman by Neil Gaiman, multiple artistsAnd Then There Were None by Agatha ChristieThe Bell Jar by Sylvia PlathThe Satanic Verses by Salman RushdieMein Kampf by Adolf HitlerQuotations from Chairman Mao Tse-tung by Hou Bo & Mao Zedong

A truly fantastic episode featuring: a completely biased review of Onyx Storm, wine, toddler interruptions, a cake odyssey, a Charizard related tragedy, and…. Shadow Daddy? Rosika also does her best drunk history retelling of the plot of the Empyrean Series. Strap in readers, it’s basically book club!Creators MentionedSay Hi to Marcella!!Marcella in the Marginshttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMP2xiAli_wV0MTcDiFpE4gBooks MentionedOnyx Storm by Rebecca YarrosFourth Wing by Rebecca YarrosIron Flame by Rebecca YarrosA Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J Maas

Is it better to buy books or borrow books? And is buying books from Amazon really so bad? Kristen and Rosika also chat about the perils of home ownership DIYs, Kristen’s questionable relationship with books that end happily, and reveal exactly who keeps punching the microphone!Books MentionedOne Dark Throne by Kendare BlakeGarlic and Sapphires by Ruth ReichlKitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly  by Anthony BourdainEat a Peach by David ChangOne Bake, Two Ways: 50 Crowd-pleasing Bakes with an All-plant Option Every Time by Ruby BhogalBake Joy: Easy and Imaginative Bakes To Bring You Happiness by Kim-JoyBorne by Jeff VanderMeerAnnihilation by Jeff VanderMeerThe Handmaid's Tale by Margaret AtwoodThe Testaments by Margaret AtwoodThe Power by Naomi AldermanProject Hail Mary by Andy WeirPachinko by Min Jin LeeOnyx Storm by Rebecca YarrosTrashy Town by Andrea G. Zimmerman and David Clemesha

This week Kristen and Rosika wander off from the plot of the episode. Choosing to focus instead on the moral ambiguity of a potato related emergency & marinate on a book that makes us reflect on our time as ICU nurses. Books MentionedShark Heart: A Love Story by Emily HabeckThe God of the Woods by Liz MooreWorld War Z by Max BrooksPerfect Little World by Kevin WilsonHalf a Soul by Olivia AtwaterVerity by Colleen Hoover

Kristin and Rosika drink a gallon of Hater-ade and joyfully yell about all the books they hate. And feel better about themselves for doing it, that’s definitely what happens. Spoiler warning for spoiled books in the beginning of the episode!Creators MentionedLexi aka newlynovahttps://www.youtube.com/@newlynovaBooks MentionedIt Ends With Us by Colleen HooverThe Women by Kristin HannahThe Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle ZevinShark Heart: A Love Story by Emily HabeckThe Spear Cuts Through Water by Simon JimenezA Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J MaasThe Things They Carried  by Tim O'BrienThe Great Alone by Kristin HannahIron Widow by Xiran Jay ZhaoHeavenly Tyrant by Xiran Jay ZhaoTomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin

Join us this week as we swan dive into our love of cheesy and sometimes downright terrible romance novels! Love is in the air for Valentine's! Creators MentionedYou Can Sit With Us podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/show/6xglolTDhKYA8OKyM8IgZQ?si=e17cea082a3d4444Books MentionedHalf a Soul by Olivia AtwaterThe Maid by Nita ProseThe Testaments by Margaret AtwoodThe Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret AtwoodIt Ends with Us by Colleen HooverVerity by Colleen HooverRed, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuistonPride and Prejudice by Jane AustenEarth’s Children Series by Jean M. AuelThe Clan of the Cave Bear by Jean M. AuelA Court of Thorns and Roses Sarah J. MaasBride by Ali HazelwoodThe Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu MandannaA Witch's Guide to Magical Innkeeping by Sangu MandannaBeach Read by Emily HenryFangirl by Rainbow RowellFourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros

Is finishing books always best? Should we be quitters or completionists? This episode explores the complexities why we do or do not DNF books! Also Kristen makes a friend at her local aquarium. Creators Mentioned Books Unbound Books Mentioned Oh Crap Potty Training by Jamie Glowacki The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin Albatross by Terry Fallis Stolen by Ann-Helén Laestadius Vampires in the Lemon Grove by Karen Russell Swamplandia! by Karen Russell The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt Nightbitch by Rachel Yoder Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens Emma by Jane Austen Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer

Looking for awesome reads for the year 2025? Check out this episode as we heap praise on our favorite reads of last year! Creators MentionedBooks UnboundJay at my0.25lifecrisisBooks MentionedAs Long as the Lemon Trees Grow by Zoulfa KatouhHomegoing by Yaa GyasiPachinko by Min Jin LeeNothing to See Here by Kevin WilsonThe Family Fang by Kevin WilsonBraving It by James CampbellWhat You Are Looking For Is in the Library by Michiko AoyamaBefore the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu KawaguchiWe'll Prescribe You a Cat by Syou IshidaWelcome to the Hyunam-dong Bookshop by Hwang BoreumDays at the Morisaki Bookshop by Satoshi YagisawaThe Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha ShannonMistborn by Brandon SandersonA Day of Fallen Night by Samantha ShannonThe Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu MandannaBride by Ali HazelwoodNorth Woods by Daniel MasonNotes on an Execution by Danya Kukafka

Rosika and Kristen talk about all things dystopia! Giving awesome book recommendations to you and trying to convince ourselves we're not in one! Books Mentioned The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin Tomorrow, And Tomorrow, And Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin August Kitko and the Mechas from Space by Alex White The Testaments by Margaret Atwood The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins Divergent by Veronica Roth Uglies by Scott Westerfeld The Maze Runner by James Dashner The Power by Naomi Alderman A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin Future Home of the Living God by Louise Erdrich World War Z by Max Brooks Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel Y: The Last Man (series) by Brian K. Vaughan and Pia Guerra They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera

Inspired by Books Unbound Rosika and Kristen take the "Moody Readers" Book Tag together! Featuring many adorable tangents and a less cursed microphone for Kristen!   Creators Mentioned The Moody Readers Tag was created by Slanted Spines https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7mhq-AXn3A0 Books Unbound https://www.booksunboundpodcast.com/ Books Mentioned The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin Tomorrow, And Tomorrow, And Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin Onyx Storm (The Empyrean 3) by Rebecca Yarros Dating Dr. Dill by Nisha Sharma The Taming of the Shrew by William Shakespeare Twelfth Night by William Shakespeare A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens  North Woods by Daniel Mason Good Omens by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow by Zoulfa Katouh The Last Word by Taylor Adams Sun Flower Lion by Kevin Henkes Little White Rabbit by Kevin Henkes Elsewhere by Alexis Schaitkin Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer The Handmaids Tale by Margaret Atwood Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler Fair Play by Eve Rodsky Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver 

Best friends Rosika and Kristen begin our bookish hero's journey together in podcasting! Talking about our book related New Years Goals for 2025 and introducing ourselves to our listeners.   Thanks for being kind as we work out starting a podcast and getting the audio dialed in. Creators Mentioned Sara Elizabeth's fabulous takedown of why Goodreads is awful https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E8ukjGdHfX8 See Rosika's recently abandoned Youtube channel themidnightreader https://www.youtube.com/@themidnightreader Books Mentioned Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood Vampires in the Lemon Grove by Karen Russell Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros 1Q84 by Haruki Murakami What I Talk About When I Talk About Running Book by Haruki Murakami Support The Podcast Plans for a Patreon, website, merch, and more! Stay Tuned!