Amy seeks help with her reading choices due to a budget change. They discuss reframing her selections, challenges in borrowing from libraries, and Amy's favorite books. They also explore a captivating young adult book about an extended Cherokee family, books that were not a good fit, and author Connie Willis. Finally, they discuss horror literature and recommend books from various genres.
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Quick takeaways
Reframe reading selections to appreciate the value in older books rather than feeling like they're missing out on new releases due to budget constraints.
Explore books by authors who span various genres, such as Alma Katsu, Silvia Moreno-Garcia, and T. Kingfisher, to find unique and diverse reading experiences.
Delve into time travel fiction by Connie Willis, which combines elements of sci-fi and historical fiction to provide intriguing insights into important historical events.
Deep dives
Spy Thrillers with Alma Katsu
Alma Katsu's spy thriller, 'Red Widow,' offers a behind-the-scenes look at the intelligence world and features a compelling plot and dynamic female characters. For more spy thriller options, check out Daniel Silva's long-running Gabriel Allon series, starting with 'The Kill Artist,' which combines history and contemporary politics.
Immersive Genre Mix with Silvia Moreno-Garcia
Silvia Moreno-Garcia's books span various genres, including fantasy, horror, and war. 'Shabek Lubek' is a graphic novel set in a world where bottled wishes are regulated, providing a fascinating exploration of happiness and desires. Explore her other works, such as 'Silver Nitrate,' a homage to classic horror films, and 'Certain Dark Things,' a neo-noir vampire tale.
Exploring Mystery and More with T. Kingfisher
T. Kingfisher offers a blend of mystery, fantasy, and horror. 'The Daughter of Dr. Morrow' presents interlocking short stories featuring a Cherokee family and spooky elements. Try 'Alias Emma' for a spy thriller with an impossible mission, or venture into YA horror with 'The Twisted Ones' under her other pen name, Ursula Vernon.
Engaging Literary Fiction and More with Connie Willis
Connie Willis' time travel series, including 'Doomsday Book,' offers a blend of sci-fi and historical fiction, delving into the intricacies of historical events. For a lighter tone, 'To Say Nothing of the Dog' combines humor and time travel. Also, explore her standalone novels like 'Blackout' and 'All Clear,' which focus on important historical periods.
Horror Adventures with Stephen Graham Jones
Stephen Graham Jones is known for his horror novels that keep readers on the edge of their seats. Explore 'Mongrels,' a horror story about werewolves, or try 'The Only Good Indians' for a chilling tale. Approach his works with caution, as they can include intense and scary elements.
Today’s guest reached out seeking help with a specific reading dilemma. We loved her request, and we’re sure it's something many readers have experienced.
Amy's joining Anne on the show today from her Vermont home on 11 acres where she homeschools her teenager, works as a part-time sustainability consultant, and cares for an eclectic collection of pets! Amy has always loved to read, but recently, her family’s budget has shifted. She's always been a library user, but lately she's looking for new perspectives on what her financial change means for her reading life.
Anne and Amy talk about reframing Amy's reading selections so she doesn’t feel like she’s missing out when she can’t read a new release right away. And, Anne shares some suggestions on how Amy can turn this unplanned for-reality into a lovely limitation.
Find the full list of titles discussed today at our show notes page, and while you're there, let us know if you have suggestions for Amy, too: that's at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/414.
Our Spring Book Preview, one of our signature bookish experiences, is happening January 25, and there are three ways to experience it yourself: join us on Patreon with a monthly or annual pledge, become a member of our Modern Mrs Darcy Book Club, or purchase an a la carte ticket. Find out more and select the best option for you at modernmrsdarcy.com/sbp.