This week on the Handsell, Jenn recommends A Handful of Earth, A Handful of Sky by Lynell George. This post contains affiliate links. When you buy through these links, Book Riot may earn a commission. Subscribe to the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Stitcher. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Get Booked

The Handsell: April 12, 2021

Amanda and Jenn discuss books set in Chicago, love-to-hate-them protagonists, magical realism, and more in this week’s episode of Get Booked. Follow the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Stitcher. Feedback Coyotes of Carthage by Steven Wright (rec’d by John) Parallel Lives: Five Victorian Marriages by Phyllis Rose (rec’d by Amanda) What is Not Yours Is Not Yours by Helen Oyeyemi and Italo Calvino’s If on a Winter’s Night a Traveler (rec’d by JB) Questions 1. I would love some recommendations for books set in Chicago. I used to live in the city and have been finding myself missing it lately. Since I won’t be able to travel there anytime soon (thanks, COVID), I’m hoping to read something that will allow me to visit without the actual travel. I usually prefer to read literary fiction, memoir, historical fiction, and narrative non-fiction, but I’m fairly open in terms of genre (would prefer not to venture too far into SFF though). The most important thing is that the books that are Chicago-centric and capture the essence of a particular place and/or time in the city. Books I’ve Already Read Set in Chicago: The Devil in the White City; The Time Traveler’s Wife; Native Son; Divergent; There Are No Children Here; The Warmth of Other Sons; The House on Mango Street; A Raisin in the Sun; Twenty Years at Hull House; Gang Leader for a Day; Never a City So Real; The Good Girl; Becoming; The Story of Jane Thanks, -Sarah 2. I have always been the “fall hard, fall fast” types in a relationship. Me and my boyfriend have been together for almost two years now and I have known since the first day that I was completely in love. He’s more of the “take things slow and enjoy the moment” kind of person. We live together and bought a house together last year. We are in a serious relationship and talk about our future as life-partners, but I can’t get over how much I want to get married. I don’t know what it is about this totally antiquated idea, but I think about it all the time. He used to say he wasn’t sure about getting married due to issues in a past relationship and his fear of getting hurt/loss, but over time we’ve moved into talking about marriage as “when we get married.” Even though he’s evolved, I know marriage is still far-off in the cards for him. I’m looking for recommendations, fiction or nonfiction, to help me be patient while waiting for him to get a place where he’s ready or one that shows me that the future I want is possible or even that partnerships don’t have to be defined by marriage. I’m not looking for anything to criticize my desire to be married (because yes, I know the yearning is ludicrous), but something to keep me hopeful about the future. I love most genres, especially mystery, thriller, literary fiction or the ill-named “chick-lit”. Other than Red, White and Royal Blue, I don’t love romance (though I’m tolerant which I know is really silly considering my question) and don’t love what I would consider “foofy” novels that are all rainbows and butterflies and irrational hope or cheeriness. I like serious plots, in-depth stories and am a sucker for a long book. Hope this isn’t too difficult considering all my caveats and that you don’t take too long, because I’m clearly impatient. (Lol, just kidding.) You guys are amazing and I’m so grateful for your podcast. -Maddison 3. I’m re-watching the TV show House, and Gregory House is one of my favourite characters ever. It got me thinking about how I’d love to read a character like him. An intelligent curmudgeon, sometimes you love him sometimes you hate him and can be humourous and charming. A sidekick like Wilson is a bonus. What books have a love to hate/hate to love protagonist? The character doesn’t need to be male. And please, no Poirot or Holmes. Literary fiction, mystery/thriller and light science fiction welcome. No fantasy please. Thank you and happy reading! -Michelle 4. Hello Ladies! Thank you for the podcast! I have found so many lovely books from listening to your recommendations. I was hoping you could help me with finding more memoirs to enjoy. I am not a big nonfiction reader generally, but have really found that memoirs (or essay collections on personal experiences?) really speak to me. Huge bonus if I can get it in audio, especially if it’s read by the author.  Some that I have read and loved (mostly recommended here or on All the Books) are Black Widow, The Clancys of Queens, You’ll Never Believe What Happened to Lacey, Solutions and Other Problems, Born a Crime, Who Thought This Was a Good Idea?, Educated, Maybe You Should Talk to Someone, A Man Without a Country, Marathon Woman, and Furiously Happy (which is truly what started this). I am a long-time listener, so show favorites and more recent recommendations are likely on my list. In writing this I’ve realized that my listing is pretty US-centric and mostly Black or White authors. I’m open to more of the same, but if you have any good recs from authors of other backgrounds/countries, that’d be very welcome too. I am not against graphic novels (I also read and was floored by John Lewis’ March), but I don’t think that’s what I’m looking for. I am also not generally super interested in celebrity memoirs, unless they’re something like Born a Crime which fully stands on its own. Thank you! -April 5. I need y’all’s help finding a lush, whimsical magical realism book. I loved Smoke by Dan Vyleta, The Minimalist by Jessie Burton and Things In Jars by Jess Kidd. I love luxurious, rich writing and am always drawn to the Gothic stories where a house, city, place are a character.  Full high fantasy can be a lot for me, but the fun magic/whimsy/spirits/etc just a touch outside of reality is what I love. I love the show – thanks so much for the help! -Alex 6. So I’ve just finished Reverb by Anna Zabo which Jenn recommended in the Handsell a couple of weeks ago. I devoured the first half of the book so fast—the characters’ chemistry and buildup is just so good—however for the latter part, I consciously took my time and savored each page. I was filled with dread while reading the last couple of pages, I just didn’t want to bid goodbye to these endearing characters. But all good things must come to an end, right? Now I don’t think I can ever find something within the genre that’s as good as this. Those were my running thoughts up until I tuned in to ep 269 today and realised that help is right in front of me, or in my ear or whatever. Just like what you did in the Handsell, I hope you can give me another unproblematic queer contemporary romance fiction that’s as good as Anna Zabo’s or better. Maybe one with loads of angst—the only thing Reverb kinda lacks.  Bibliotherapy helped (and still helping) me cope with the pandemic and our still ongoing lockdown. I’ve been listening to your past and recent episodes every workday since I discovered your podcast 2 weeks ago, really amazing stuff you’ve got going, Cheers! -G 7. I retired late summer 2020 from my job of 15 years.  I had not planned to do so, but budget cutbacks related to COVID, and job frustrations sped up the decision.  I now find myself adrift in my personal life and my reading life as well.  I want a book that reflects my stage of life, re-invention, and moving forward.  I also like quirky characters who find happiness and purpose against the odds.   Some favorites in the past few years.  Brit-Marie Was Here, A Gentleman in Moscow, Hamnet, The Dutch House, Elinor Oliphant is Completely Fine.  I really need a book to resonate right now.  Any ideas?   -Karen Books Discussed Chicago by Alaa Al-Aswany The Great Believers by Rebecca Makkai Evvie Drake Starts Over by Linda Holmes (tw: domestic abuse) Serena Singh Flips The Script by Sonya Lalli (cw: domestic violence) The Woman Next Door by Yewande Omotoso (tw racism) The Secret History of Las Vegas by Chris Abani (cw: war crimes) Fairest by Meredith Talusan  The Magical Language of Others by E.J. Koh (cw: domestic violence, self-harm, violence against women) What Big Teeth by Rose Szabo Gods of Jade and Shadow by Silvia Moreno-Garcia Written in the Stars by Alexandria Bellefleur Small Change by Roan Parrish (cw: discussion of depression and self-harm) The Jetsetters by Amanda Eyre Ward (tw: suicide) Dakota Blues by Lynn M Speer See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

E276: Handle Your Own Cringe

This week on the Handsell, Amanda recommends Six Wakes by Mur Lafferty. This post contains affiliate links. When you buy through these links, Book Riot may earn a commission. Subscribe to the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Stitcher. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Handsell: April 5, 2021

Amanda and Jenn discuss more nonfiction for book clubs, magical horses, novels set in Morocco, and more in this week’s episode of Get Booked. Subscribe to the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Stitcher. This post contains affiliate links. When you buy through these links, Book Riot may earn a commission. Questions 1. I need some help finding a non-fiction book for my book club. We try to alternate between fiction and non fiction and every month we try to pick something from a genre we haven’t read before. The past 2 books that were big nonfiction hits were Hollywood Park by Mikel Jollett and Infused: Adventures in Tea by Henrietta Lovell.   Preferences: (1)Would prefer the book be by a BIPOC or LGBTQIA+ author (2)Would prefer a fairly recently published book as we have found that books more than 3 years are harder to find in the quantity we need at the local library (we have a pretty big group). Sometimes even the newer ones are hard to get in quantity which is unfortunate because I really wanted my group to read Disability Visibility which was amazing and I credit you two with helping me find that particular gem. Any help you can give would be deeply appreciated. Love your show, please keep up the good work! The bookriot podcasts are the only reason I manage to get to work semi-awake in the mornings. Thanks! -Jen 2. Recently I’ve found myself reading a lot of books that span a large number of years and include aging/the circle of life as a semi-major component (ex. just finished Vanishing Half). However, with not seeing my family for far too long and grappling with living as an adult on my own for the first time and my grandparents minutes away from death (sorry to unload it’s been one of those pandemics), these books have been giving me bad existential feelings. What I’m looking for is the antithesis to this, the books that take place in the shortest amount of time you know – a week, a day, an hour if possible. No births, deaths, or major life transitions, please. Basically anything that will make me feel like I, too, can freeze my life in a singular moment in time. Any genre is fine, love the show, thanks for all your work! ? -Anonymous 3. This is super long you don’t have to read it all. I am not caught up on the show yet, but I started listening to this show and the Book Riot Podcast both from the beginning at the beginning of quarantine. I’m now almost caught up on this show, so yay for that! I’m 22 and have been in a relationship with my current bf for almost 3 years. We moved in together in September. Things were great until a few months ago (no abuse, don’t worry, he just seems distant). I’ve also noticed a few things not so okay about our relationship, like how he criticizes my mom often or puts his pet’s needs before mine. Like I said, everything was great until a few months ago. I tried to ask him if something has changed/bring up the fact that he hardly initiates any physical contact anymore, but he was like “everything is the same.” I kind of wanted him to say “COVID is stressing me out,” because then it’s not his fault and I can’t blame him for a global pandemic. I explained a lot to my mom and she said “you deserve better.” However, I started law school back in the fall and have met a bunch of people online. I made friends with this guy who recently got out of a relationship too. He’s really attractive and also so nice to me and I don’t know if I’m just crushing on him because I am not getting the attention I deserve in my current relationship or because there’s actually something there. Am I just into him because I’ve always been a huge fan of the friends-to-lovers trope? I don’t know. Either way, please suggest me books that will help me figure this out. Maybe books about potential breakups? Books about finding someone new and realizing that you already have what you need? or that you don’t? Anything please. Some caveats: I don’t really read much genre. Mainly historical fiction and lit fic. I do read romance, but only if romance books with illustrated covers. Please don’t ask why, I don’t know. Bonus points for CanLit and Franco-Canadian representation. Thanks for being my therapists? I don’t know. Just help. Please.  -Emilie 4. I loved A Paris Apartment by Michelle Gable.  I would love to find another similar book about an unraveling of a story of a significant place or thing in a historic context.  I have no preference of what timeframe the story unravels in or genre.  I am looking for a compelling story that is well researched and has real character development. -Helen 5. Hi! Love the podcast, you have been getting me through working from home ? I realised I have never (to my bad memory’s knowledge) read a book set in Morocco and that is where my family are originally are from. I would love to read something fictional set in Morocco, any genre is fine except horror as i too have a low threshold for reading scary books. Own voices would be great but I’m kind of open to anything that feels like I’m visiting the homeland while I’m not able to actually go. Thank you so much in advance -Safia 6. I am working on putting together my list for the Read Harder Challenge and am stuck on prompt 17: own voices YA with a Black protagonist that is not about Black pain. Most of the books I’ve seen recommended for this prompt use romance as a main plot point but as someone who identifies as aro-ace I’d like to read about teenagers finding joy in their friendships rather than romantic relationships. Do you have any recommendations for books to fit this prompt that center friendship? Please not “Let’s Talk About Love” by Claire Kann. Thank you! -Marie 7. Short version of this question is, do you have any read alikes for the Scorpio Races? To go into a smidge more detail, as a kid, I was obsessed with horse books. The Black Stallion, Misty of Chincoteague, etc. As an adult, I read mostly fantasy. The Scorpio Races is a horse book like something Walter Farley would write, only (most of) the horses are monster water-horses akin to kelpies. It’s a fantasy horse book! My mind exploded! I am seeking something similar. I don’t care about the setting (real world with magic vs secondary world etc) but I do want it to FEEL like a horse book (ie not just a book that happens to have horses in it, but one where caring for them is at the core of the book). Also, magical horses are great, monster horses are welcome, but no talking horses, please! -Magical Horse Girl Books Discussed Ordinary Girls by Jaquira Diaz (tw: domestic violence, sexual assault, harm to children) A History of My Brief Body by Billy-Ray Belcourt (cw: racism, homophobia) 2 AM at the Cat’s Pajamas by Marie-Helene Bertino Today Will Be Different by Maria Semple Exciting Times by Naoise Dolan The Gifts of Imperfection by Brene Brown A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles The Steady Running of the Hour by Justin Go The Time in Between by Maria Dueñas, transl. by Daniel Hahn Secret Son by Laila Lalami Who Put This Song On? by Morgan Parker (rec’d Jess Pryde) Dear Haiti, Love Alaine by Maika and Maritza Moulite Of Fire and Stars by Audrey Coulthurst The Hero and The Crown by Robin McKinley See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

E275: Big Delia's Feelings

This week on the Handsell, Jenn recommends The Making of Asian America by Erika Lee. Subscribe to the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Stitcher. This post contains affiliate links. When you buy through these links, Book Riot may earn a commission. Resources Get bystander intervention training to stop harassment when you see it [Hollaback] Learn more about anti-Asian violence, via this webinar run by AAAJ Atlanta Donate to an AAPI or AAPI-supporting organization, via GoFundMe or an organization near you See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Handsell: March 29, 2021

Amanda and Jenn discuss guides to having feelings at work, books about queer families, unsatisfying endings, and more in this week’s episode of Get Booked. Subscribe to the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Stitcher. This post contains affiliate links. When you buy through these links, Book Riot may earn a commission. Feedback The Last One by Alexandra Oliva (rec’d by Andie) The Outermost House by Henry Beston and The Pilgrim at Tinker Creek by Annie Dillard (rec’d by Kristi) The Best Kind of Beautiful by Francis Whiting (rec’d by Rebecca) Questions 1. My friends are beginning a book club and they don’t read that much nonfiction, which means that they will choose a lot of fiction picks. I like fiction, but their tastes in fiction usually differ drastically from mine. I’m the only person in the group who reads nonfiction constantly, so I will be the one picking our nonfiction reads. They did say that they wanted to read more nonfiction after I said we should read Big Friendship. Therefore, we have decided that they will do 2 fiction picks and then I will have one nonfiction pick, and the pattern will repeat. I am trying to find short (less than 300 pages), easy to read, not depressing nonfiction. I’m actually trying to pick at least one book that relates to each of our interests so that we all get some background information on what we like! I’m having trouble finding these two picks, so if you can help me they would be great! One friend is getting her PhD in English with a focus on Victorian literature. I’d really like a rec on Victorian culture/society. The other friend I need a rec for has degrees in Sign Language Studies and TESOL and loves linguistics! I already have books related to my one friend who has an MA in English and likes conservation/environmental science and the two of us (including me) who have MLIS degrees. Any recommendations related to those two topics would be greatly appreciated! -A Lonely Nonfiction Friend 2. I am in my early 40’s, and most of my work life has been spent within a non-hierarchical and unconventional environment, that was very open to messy human emotions (for better and worse:). Now I find myself in a fairly standard hierarchical environment where “professional” communication/conduct is expected, and open, honest sharing is done in a much more tempered manner. While I generally understand the context clues of my workplace’s culture, I still don’t totally get it. And I also miss some of the dynamics of my previous work place, namely the benefits a less rigidly hierarchical/authoritative structure can have on human interactions/behavior, and the psyche. I’m interested in reading something that will help me understand various healthy/successful hierarchical work culture strategies/concepts and I would much prefer to read something that is: 1. introductory, 2.written by someone other than a white male, and 3. considers humanistic approaches, challenges white supremacist concepts, and/or traditional capitalist workplace norms. I also need something that is a fairly engrossing read – as engaging with nonfiction can be difficult for me – or something that is available as an audiobook – I can generally get through books that i find challenging if I can listen to them. Thank you! -Diane 3. I’m writing in search of a recommendation for a friend. She is moving to Bonn, Germany and I’d like to gift her a book that is set in or around the area. My friend has traveled extensively, living in the US, East Asia, and South America. She’s a dedicated yogi and educational professional. She is passionate about social justice and equity and is a champion for young females of color. Previous books she enjoyed include The Secret Lives of Church Ladies, Girl Woman Other, The Warmth of Other Suns, If I had Your Face, Ties that Tether, First Comes Like, and A Night Divided. It’d be great if the book is available as an e-book (Kindle), audiobooks and graphic novels are a pass.  Thanks for the great show; I love listening to other people’s requests and adding piles to my TBR and to my library’s shelves! -Stephanie 4. Hi!! First of all, love the show!! I’m fairly new to it, but it is already one of my favorites! I’m looking for books with queer families. There are plenty with queer characters coming out, dealing with acceptance, finding love, and all that, which is great, don’t get me wrong! But what I wanted is a book with LGBT parents (lesbians would be great), aunts, uncles, grandparents, etc., they don’t even need to be the main character. I prefer fiction, I love graphic novels, romance, fantasy, sci-fi, wouldn’t mind biographies either, but I’m not really into YA.  Thank you!! Love from Brazil! -Silvia 5. I’m looking for good mystery/thrillers that have layered, believable main characters and surprising twists. This genre is my go-to when I hit a reading slump but lately I keep picking up books with 1 dimensional characters, expected plot twists & are just overall disappointing. Books in this area I’ve loved are anything by Ruth Ware, The Wife Upstairs (I devoured this book) & The Magpie & Moonflower Murders by Anthony Horowitz (these last 2 are cozies but he writes very strong capable female leads with lots of plot twists). Tana French has been hit & miss for me in the past but I haven’t read anything outside the Dublin Murder Squad books. Love the show, thank you so much.  -Kathryn 6. Hi i’m 31 years old and I have recently been diagnosed with autistic spectrum disorder, I’m beginning treatment for it but it has been difficult to learn that I’ve had it all my life and just now having to learn to cope with it as an adult. I’m looking for a book that has an adult with autistic spectrum disorder as the main character, preferably a woman. It can be fiction or non fiction and it can be any genre. Thank you,  -Alejandra 7. In terms of my reading tastes, I gravitate towards books that give readers what they need, not what they want. More specifically, I enjoy books with unsatisfactory endings because they’re the ones that resonate with me the most – I often come away with an important lesson that leaves me deep in thought for days. I also appreciate a good redemption arc, because I like my characters to have layers to their personalities and live between shades of grey. They are the ones that I develop the strongest emotional connections with. -Stephanie Books Discussed Too Much by Rachel Vorona Cote Because Internet by Gretchen McCulloch Radical Candor by Kim Scott No Hard Feelings by Liz Fosslien and Mollie West Duffy High as the Waters Rise by Anja Kampmann (transl. Anne Posten) A Small Town in Germany by John Le Carre Courting the Countess by Jenny Frame Weekend by Jane Eaton Hamilton (cw: racism, transphobia, infertility and miscarriage, discussion of intimate partner violence, discussion of death by suicide, ableism, hospitalization for chronic illness, deadnaming) The Conductors by Nicole Glover A Madness of Sunshine by Nalini Singh (cw: harm to animals, violence towards women and children including rape, domestic violence) The Suicide House by Charlie Donlea (tw: suicide) The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang  What’s Left of Me is Yours by Stephanie Scott The Crossing by Jason Mott See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

E274: Jane Eyre and Lana Del Rey In One Book

This week on the Handsell, Amanda recommends His Only Wife by Peace Adzo Medie. This post contains affiliate links. When you buy through these links, Book Riot may earn a commission. Subscribe to the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Stitcher. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Handsell: March 22, 2021

Amanda and Jenn discuss survival guides, books like Survivor, historical fiction, and more in this week’s episode of Get Booked. Subscribe to the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Stitcher. Questions 1. Texas’s grid collapse and lack of water has me wondering what I’d do in this situation and wanting to be prepared. Can you recommend a good survival guide that could help a reader with few skills? -Brooke 2. Hi hi! I’ve really been into historical fiction with female protagonists. Have absolutely loved the Neapolitan series and I’m wrapping up The Lost Girls of Paris, I’d appreciate any recommendations that are in the same vein. I love stories that take place in Europe but I’m open to books that take place in other places.  -Ren 3. Good queer stuff, thriller, sunday romance -Kai 4. I am looking for recommendations for my bookclub, the age ranges from 15 to mid-70’s, so I need recs that are appropriate for a younger audience but still keep the older members interested. Books we have already read include The Book Thief, The Joy Luck Club, Water for Elephants, The Chilbury Ladies’ Choir, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, and Frankly In Love. My group tends to prefer historical fiction, but are open to other genres.  Thanks for your help!  -Holly 5. Howdy Y’all, I could use a good recommendation for an adventure/history series that I can listen to on my commute to and from work. In my head I’m thinking of an Uncharted like series. Super high quality, masterful prose, and themes and motifs out the wazoo are not necessary for this. I have read all the Dan Brown books. I am so far loving Steve Berry’s Cotton Malone series. I haven’t started James Rollins’ Sigma Force or Preston/Child’s Pendergast series but those are on my TBR. And I wasn’t a big fan of Clive Cussler’s Dirk Pitt, but I love the concept. I was wondering if you folks would have any good series recommendations along those lines that may have flown under my radar. It’s a plus if the series has a good audiobook narrator. And it’s a plus plus if the series is an ongoing franchise.  This has been an ongoing struggle for me so I finally decided there was only one place to go for expert recs.  Thank you guys very much -Michael 6. Hello ladies! I am looking for a book set in Australia that will give me the same kind of warm fuzzies I got from reading books like the Switch and The Bookish Life of Nina Hill or watching programs like the Great British Baking Show, Izzy’s Koala World, or Nadiya’s Time To Eat. I am open to any genre! Thank you!  -Erika 7. Hi Amanda and Jenn! I know I’m extremely late to the game, but I finally got around to watching the TV series Survivor and I am absolutely infatuated with it all! I’ve been wondering if there is a book version of this?! I think what I love about it so much is the character development (leading you to root for or disdain players) and the interpersonal and social complexities. I like seeing how people’s minds work. I like the full spectrum rainbow of ALL the emotions that come out. Every now and then there’s a love interest but without fail there is deception, risk taking, strategy, desperation, celebration and defeat. It’s amazing!! The surviving off the land part is cool too.      -Fangirl Books Discussed Just in Case by Kathy Harrison How To Invent Everything by Ryan North (That time he got stuck in a hole) The Confessions of Frannie Langton by Sara Collins (tw slavery) Victoire by Maryse Condé, translated by Richard Philcox The Dime by Kathleen Kent The Outside by Ada Hoffmann (cw: self-harm) Jane Steele by Lyndsay Faye (tw: sexual assault) The Talented Ribkins by Ladee Hubbard Templar series by Raymond Khoury (#1 The Last Templar) The Jaya Jones series by Gigi Pandian (Artifact #1) The Grandest Bookshop in the World by Amelia Mellor The Helpline by Katherine Collette (rec’d by Keryn) Beauty Queens by Libba Bray South Pole Station by Ashley Shelby See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

E273: Dwight Schrute In Your Backyard

This week on the Handsell, Jenn recommends Brave New Home by Diana Lind. Subscribe to the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Stitcher. This post contains affiliate links. When you buy through these links, Book Riot may earn a commission. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Handsell: March 15, 2021

Jenn and guest Kim Ukura discuss lots of nonfiction, including kid-friendly science audiobooks and body-positive memoirs, in this week’s episode of Get Booked. Subscribe to the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Stitcher. This post contains affiliate links. When you buy through these links, Book Riot may earn a commission. Questions 1. I have been listening to science audio books with my son (7yo) who has really been enjoying them. So far we have listened to the Future of Humanity by Michio Kaku, Astrophysics For Young People in a Hurry by Neil deGrasse Tyson, and we are currently listening to The Rise and Fall of the Dinosaurs. Anything else you can recommend? All the bonus points if it deals with robots, space, or is any way speculative. Thanks! -Riad 2. Hello. I promise this isn’t just a word problem in disguise, although it sort of feels that way! I used to have a very long commute to work (over an hour each way), which I made more bearable by listening to non-fiction audiobooks. I now have a much, much shorter commute but miss listening to audiobooks. I use my local library’s app, which allows audiobooks to be checked out for two weeks. Since I’m listening for less than an hour a day, I often can’t finish the books that I borrow in time. Can you recommend some great non-fiction that is around 10 hours long? I really enjoy Oliver Sachs, Mary Roach, Michael Pollan, Bee Wilson, Bill Bryson, and Brene Brown and have already listened to everything by these authors that is available. My favorite topics are social science, psychology, the natural world, and food/cooking. I generally don’t enjoy celebrity memoirs, self-help, and am firmly disinterested in sports. Thank you so much for all of your awesome weekly recommendations-I’ve discovered so many new favorites because of your podcast!  -Brenna 3. Hello! I am writing to you in the hopes that you can point me in the right direction. I was recently surprised when I noticed two books on different topics I was reading started to converge. One book is Bregman’s “Humankind: A Hopeful History” and the other is McGonigal’s “The Joy of Movement”. Despite their apparently dissimilar topics (social psychology and exercise), somehow, these two books converged on the ideas that humans are built for connection and cooperation. And suddenly I know I need more of that. I want more of humans building relationships and working towards common goals. I’ve already read Smith’s “The Power of Meaning” and have Ter Kuile’s “The Power of Ritual” on hold at the library. What else can you recommend? Fiction and non-fiction are both OK. TIA. -Lisa 4. I am 35 years old and single and have recently decided to explore the world of on-line dating…bad idea. No need for details of bad experience but it has created a need in me for a good female powered memoir preferably with focus on body image. I have read a lot of the popular ones already such as the beauty myth, body positive power, the body is not an apology, Men Explain Things to Me, and books by Lindy West, Roxane Gay, Samantha Irby, and Jes Baker. I also just purchased Body Talk and have been reading an essay every morning. Any help with finding a good female strong and feel good book would be greatly appreciated. I love your podcast and thank you!! -Noelle 5. Hi, I always thought I was straight but recently I’ve been feeling more attraction towards women/enbys. I am in a long term relationship with a man whom I love and adore and don’t see that ending anytime soon. Basically, I’m struggling with my sexuality and have no good outlet to explore that now. Books have always been the thing I turn to when I’m trying to process important things. Please recommend adult books (preferably one fiction and one non-fiction) that center on wlw relationships and coming to terms with your sexuality. Bonus points for bi/pan rep or enby rep and bonus points for an older character (not a teen). I love contemporary and literary fiction but would be open to an sff. I have not been loving historical recently.  -JJ 6. I’m a Computer Science teacher in Mexico City. I have been teaching high school students about the science behind the magic of technology for about fifteen years. Also, I’m an avid reader and I believe in the power of books in my students’ academic lives. I’m always looking for books about Computer Science or the history of computers to assign them as extra activities for my class (some students prefer reading books instead of coding, and that’s fine with me as long as they learn). Books in English are not a problem since, although we are a Spanish-speaking country, I work at a bilingual school and they understand English perfectly. We have read books like “The Code Book” by Simon Singh, “The Thrilling Adventures of Lovelace and Babbage” a beautiful graphic novel by Sydney Padua, “Broad Band” by Claire L. Evans, “The Inevitable” by Kevin Kelly, “The Second Machine Age” by Erik Brynjolfsson, “Code Girls” by Liza Mundy, “Zero Day” by Mark Russinovich, and “Life 3.0” by Max Tegmark. I would love to know if you have any recommendations my students and for me. Of course, there are extra points for books about women in tech and the power of diversity and inclusion, since we all need those messages every single day in our current world.  -Rodrigo 7. My mom has begun seeking therapy for chronic depression that I suspect has been with her for a while now. I’m glad she’s seeking professional help, but I also wanted to get her a book to help lift her up a bit. From what she’s confided in me, some of what is contributing to her depression is that a lot of her identity is tied up in feeling needed/useful as a mom. Now that both her daughters are grown, she thinks we don’t need her anymore (entirely untrue, of course) and that she’s not useful as a person. I’m wondering if there are any books out there about older women finding renewed sense of self or dealing with similar issues that she can see herself in. I’m hoping for something uplifting. She also has triggers around harm to children and sexual violence, so if those topics could be avoided, that would be great. Thanks! -Worried Daughter Books Discussed Packing for Mars by Mary Roach (Gulp, Spook, or Grunt) Scatter, Adapt, and Remember by Annalee Newitz Make it Scream, Make it Burn by Leslie Jamison (9 hours 3 minutes) Once Upon a Time I Lived on Mars by Kate Greene (6 hrs 7 min) How We Show Up by Mia Birdsong Northern Light by Kazim Ali (cw: discussion of suicide) Too Fat, Too Slutty, Too Loud by Anne Helen Petersen #VeryFat #VeryBrave by Nicole Byer The Fixed Stars by Molly Wizenberg The Care and Feeding of Waspish Widows by Olivia Waite Reset: My Fight for Inclusion and Lasting Change by Ellen Pao Algorithms of Oppression by Safiya Umoja Noble Maybe You Should Talk to Someone: A Therapist, HER Therapist, and Our Lives Revealed by Lori Gottlieb Book Club When Women Were Birds by Terry Tempest Williams, (cw: attempted assault) 10 Mystery and Thriller Books Starring Older Women Books With Female Protagonists Over 60 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

E272: Pair It With A Lizzo Song

This week on the Handsell, Amanda recommends Even As We Breathe by Annette Saunooke Clapsaddle. This post contains affiliate links. When you buy through these links, Book Riot may earn a commission. Subscribe to the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Stitcher. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Handsell: March 8, 2020

Amanda and Jenn discuss “will they, won’t they” romance, fiction set in DC, memoirs by survivors of abuse, and more in this week’s episode of Get Booked. Subscribe to the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Stitcher. This post contains affiliate links. When you buy through these links, Book Riot may earn a commission. Feedback Tilly and the Bookwanderers by Anna James (rec’d by Lauren) Strange the Dreamer by Laini Taylor (rec’d by Leenie) Questions 1. At the recommendation of the podcast, last year I read (and loved!) Braiding Sweetgrass and The Overstory. I’m looking for more books to add to my TBR list with naturalist elements. Is there a book version of Planet Earth but with trees and plants?? Like many I’ve had a challenging year with quarantine stress and non-COVID health issues, so I would prefer something that isn’t a portrait of grief (H is for Hawk, beautiful but too sad!) or about the total destruction of our world as we know it due to climate change. Open to all genres except horror, and please no sexual violence or violence towards children. Thank you! -Emily 2. I am sure you have recommended this type of book before, but unsure how to find them.  I have not read a romance book in years and feel the need to.  I can not remember a book that would closely match what type I would like to read.  Its the ‘Will they or Won’t they’ type of romance.  Some examples of tv shows that display this is as follows:  Castle: Richard & Kate, Moonlighting: David & Maddie, The Nanny: Fran & Mr. Sheffield, The X-Files: Mulder & Scully, Remington Steele: Remington & Laura, Law & Order SVU: Elliot & Olivia, House: House and Cuddy, Bones: Temperance & Seeley, NCIS: Tony & Ziva, Frasier: Daphne & Niles, Star Trek TNG: Picard and Beverly and The West Wing: Donna & Josh.  I know, mostly 80’s shows.  Once they are together, I am no longer interested.  Also bonus if female in story somehow gets hurt physically and he helps her out.  I am not picky as to if it’s an action, contemporary, fantasy, gothic, historical romance etc. book or not.  Thank for your help.   -Kelly 3. After years of working from home, I’m about to start commuting again, and will be spending at least 2 hours a day in the car. I’m hoping for an entertaining and engaging audiobook with a plot that hooks you in, to help me pass the time. I’d prefer fiction, as right now I only really listen to nonfiction audiobooks and am looking to expand my horizons, but I’m open to anything. I’m open to any genre, but my favorites are mysteries/whodunits, fantasy, and historical fiction. (Sorry if this is too vague!) Thank you so much, I’m such a big fan of the show ? -Julia 4. I’m getting married in May (so kind of time sensitive but still a ways off) and we’re going to Washington D.C. and Baltimore for our honeymoon. I’ve been to both but realized I’ve never read any books that take place in these cities. Do you have any recommendations? I love YA, fantasy, historical fiction and mystery/thriller genres. My favorite authors are J.K. Rowling/Robert Galbraith, Steve Berry,  Cassandra Clare, and John Green. My favorite books are Phantom of the Opera, A Great and Terrible Beauty, Sharp Objects, and the Time-Traveler’s Wife to name a few. I don’t mind romance in a story but typically I don’t like romance novels. Classics are fine if they fit the bill. I love Jane Austen, the Brontes, Oscar Wilde, and Shakespeare. Sorry for the long ask. Thanks for your help! -Rhiannon 5. Hi! I love your show and thanks for all that you do. I’ve read a bunch of very good books on your recommendation. I wanted to ask if you had any read-alikes for the Nero Wolfe series. I’ve read a number of the books and I love the vintage mystery vibe, the mostly bloodless crimes, and I especially love the quippy Archie Goodwin. What I don’t so much love is the misogyny and racism. : I know the books get better at this as they go forward but there are several that are just real uncomfortable reads. Do y’all know of anything with the old-fashioned setting but not the old-fashioned bigotry? Maybe even some queer or poc rep?  -Leenie 6. I know this is heavy but I’m looking for a memoir of someone that has survived childhood sexual abuse. It’s my personal narrative and sometimes I feel comforted by hearing other survivors’ stories. However, it’s hard to really search for those. I’m not looking for memoirs with overly graphic detail, just how they came out of it. -Debb 7. Hello Amanda, Jenn and all of Book Riot! First off, thank you so much for a great podcast. Your conversations, spirits and of course recommendations have really helped me out this past year. I hope you two had a wonderful holiday and here’s to a much better 2021 (knock on wood, fingers crossed and all that). My girlfriend and I are currently doing a book club of two this year and looking to add some thriller/horror books to our list. There is absolutely no urgency to this request because our to be read list is already very long.  We really like books that have social justice leaning subjects. For instance, both of us are big fans of the only good Indians by Stephen Graham Jones, when no one is watching by Alyssa Cole, and Gone Girl (probably my girlfriend’s favorite book).  Also, Red, White & Royal blue is fantastic and probably would not have read it if it were not for this podcast. So if you want to just recommend something you want more people to read, please do that instead! Thank you so much! -Zach Books Discussed The Nature Fix by Florence Williams World of Wonders by Aimee Nezhukumatathil Veronica Speedwell series by Deanna Raybourne (#1 A Curious Beginning) Lady Sherlock by Sherry Thomas (particularly A Conspiracy in Belgravia #2) A Declaration of the Rights of Magicians by HG Parry The Fatma al-Sha’arawi series by P. Djèlí Clark (A Dead Djinn in Cairo) The Fixer by Jennifer Lynn Barnes Love Is the Drug by Alaya Dawn Johnson Perveen Mistry series by Sujata Massey (#1 The Widows of Malabar Hill) (tw: domestic violence) Gethsemane Brown series by Alexia Gordon (Murder in G Major) (cw: ableist language) I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou (tw racism, rape) Man Alive by Thomas Page McBee (cw: child abuse, transphobia, dissociation/PTSD) The Southern Book Club’s Guide to Slaying Vampires by Grady Hendrix (tw harm to children) Djinn Patrol on the Purple Line by Deepa Anappara (tw: abuse towards women and children, child deaths) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

E271: Weird Farm Flex

This week on the Handsell, Jenn recommends Reverb by Anna Zabo. This post contains affiliate links. When you buy through these links, Book Riot may earn a commission. CW: stalking (cyber and in-person) In the Club newsletter Subscribe to the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Stitcher. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Handsell: March 1, 2021

Amanda and Jenn give their current favorite cozy reads across genres in this week’s episode of Get Booked. Subscribe to the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Stitcher. This post contains affiliate links. When you buy through these links, Book Riot may earn a commission. Books Discussed The Storied Life of AJ Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin A Bad Day for Sunshine by Darynda Jones (tw: rape) Evvie Drake Starts Over by Linda Holmes All the Wild Hungers by Karen Babine (cw: cancer treatment, fertility and pregnancy issues) The True Queen by Zen Cho (Sorcerer Royal #2) Safe As Houses by Marie Helene Bertino Serena Singh Flips the Script by Sonya Lalli (tw: domestic violence) Persephone Station by Stina Leicht Brilliant Life of Eudora Honeysett by Annie Lyons (tw: suicide) Prey of Gods by Nicky Drayden (cw: reference to sexual assault, harm to children) Ocean Light by Nalini Singh (cw: description of panic attacks, reference to child abuse, abductions) Two Dark Moons by Avi Silver See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

E270: The Cozy Show, Or A Gossipy Blanket

This week on the Handsell, Amanda recommends The Hole by Hye-Young Pyun, translated by Sora Kim-Russell. Subscribe to the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Stitcher. This post contains affiliate links. When you buy through these links, Book Riot may earn a commission. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Handsell: February 22, 2021

Get Booked is a weekly show of personalized book recommendations.