Daniel M. Lavery (previously Mallory Ortberg)

3. I am a streamer on a website called Twitch and have decided that in the new year I would like to do some 30 minute ‘read with me’ streams, so after reading the story we can all chat about it together. I feel like short stories would definitely work best for this so I was hoping you would have some recommendations please? Twitch is primarily aimed at gamers so Fantasy, sci fi, horror and comedy would probably work best although always up for suggestions if you think otherwise! Love the show and thanks, -Kelsey

Hi! Recommendations for a great gift book (for someone who’s a heavy breather for classics), that isn’t Folio Society. Something great quality, at an affordable price. Thanks! –Sarah

Hi! Recommendations for a great gift book (for someone who’s a heavy breather for classics), that isn’t Folio Society. Something great quality, at an affordable price. Thanks! –Sarah

7. I work in technical theater. My teenage niece has recently developed an interest in technical theater and, in her enthusiasm, asked me if there were any books about people in my profession. And I am at a loss. There are textbooks, but that is not what she wants. I bought her a couple volumes of “The Backstagers,” but I have never been able to get into graphic novels. So, it is not something that I can share with her. I remember reading a Stephanie Kallos novel in which the protagonist was a stage manager, but (without getting too deeply into backstage politics) I would say that stage managers are a different breed. What I do as a stagehand is run shows, build sets, hang lights; I climb ladders and crawl in tight spaces. I do plenty of reading (even in the dark of backstage), but I don’t know of any novels that feature technical theater or the technicians who work in it. Even an internet search has lead me nowhere. Are there novels or memoirs out there, or am I going to have to write my own? -The Stagehand

1. Hi there!! I will be traveling in May from my home in Canada to Glasgow and the island of Iona. I’ve read quite a bit about Iona but don’t know much about Glasgow, so I’m looking for books, fiction and/or non-fiction, that tell the stories of the city. A few years ago when I was preparing for travel to Edinburgh, I read most of the Rebus mystery series and found it was a great way to acquaint myself with the city. So fiction that is set in Glasgow might be a good place to start. I’m not looking for travelogues per se, but a narrative non-fiction about life in Glasgow would also be great. Thanks in advance, Sue

2. Hello!! I recently read “The Beast is an Animal” and loved it! I’m a fan of the Agent Pendergast series by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child. Some of my other favorites include “Watchers” and “Phantoms” by Dean Koontz, “The Shining” and “Pet Semetary” by Stephen King. I also loved the “The Witch’s Daughter” and “The Return of the Witch” by Paula Brackston. I’m looking for a book that has supernatural creatures and elements. As you can probably tell by the books listed above, I typically prefer horror, suspense, or mystery. I have never really read fantasy but I am not opposed to trying it. Thanks for any recommendations you can offer! -Amber

1. Hi! I’m looking for some great books for October. I love October so much I’m already trying to plan my reads for the month. Books I have read and loved: -Mexican gothic – the year of witching - the southern book club’s guide to slaying vampires – wilder girls– the fireman. I love creepy (but not scary) and witches! Give me all the witches. I read a secret history of witches but was not into it because it moved slow and repeated the same story all through the book. I can’t wait to curl up with a PSL and a good October book! Happy spooky season! -Jessica

7. Looking for a fantasy novel that feels like Lord of the Rings but has some non heteronormative romance in it. I love fluff romance and don’t mind sex scenes as long as there isn’t an “eggplant” involved. I haven’t read a good fantasy novel since I was a kid and I liked Eragon, Harry Potter, A Series of Unfortunate Events, and Cirque Du Freak. I want something that isn’t necessarily YA though as I prefer books geared more towards adults. -Jean (they/them)

6. I’m going on vacation in mid August, and was hoping you guys could give me some recommendations for my trip. The flight will be nearly 12 hours there and back, and I’m also going to be lying on a beach (it’s a tough life) for a good amount of time, so I need some books! I’m very much interested in gay romance or fiction- any genre really, but I would like some romance in there please. I read A Little Life recently, so I would really prefer something with a happy ending if that’s possible. The kill your gays trope has worn on me recently, and I just want to read something that makes me smile in the end. Though I will admit I kind of love the secret relationship, forbidden romance that comes ready made in a lot of gay fiction- I’m a problematic gay man I guess, sorry. Anyway I would love your suggestions- I eagerly await this podcast every week, you two are so wonderful! P.S. Bonus points for good audiobooks 🙂 Jake

5. I am a British girl who has watched Steel Magnolias 50 times and now I want to add a bit of Southern flavour to my reading. I know “the South” is a big place but what books can you recommend that will help feed my fascination with the people and the places? I’d love a mix of fiction and non-fiction and yes, I’ve already read To Kill A Mockingbird and Go Set A Watchman. Much bookish love, Rachel

Hello Amanda, One of my all time favorite authors is Thomas Hardy and when I stumbled upon The French Lieutenant’s Woman by John Fowles (which has many Hardy allusions) I was blown away – a postmodern Victorian novel!!!! Many other novels which I’ve tried (The Crimson Petal and The White as well as Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell) just didn’t do it for me. Any other suggestions? Sincerely, Kaisha

https://bookriot.com/2016/01/07/get-booked-episode-10-grief-translations-and-wacky-british-fantasy/

1. I like books about books so much that I have a whole shelf on my good reads called books about books about books. I look forward to reading your recommendations for it but I wanted to put my hat in the ring. So in that vein: The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, The Eyre Affair (and really the whole Thursday Next Series), Mister Pip, If on a Winters Night a Traveler, Cloud Atlas. Love the podcast! Best, Miranda

1. Hi Amanda and Jenn! I love the show. It’s done nothing but make my unwieldy to-read list even longer. I was curious if you had any recommendations for novels about, or containing, novels; or novels about reading novels. I read If on a Winter’s Night a Traveler and am in the middle of Pale Fire. Calvino blew me away. Any thoughts? Thanks much, and again, love the podcast! Respectfully, Kevin

5. I’ve been bouncing between genres as 2021 opens up and stumbled across a pretty specific ask. So it started as I was reading a mystery novel set in England, 1919 (This Side of Murder) which opens with a woman heading to a house party at which shenanigans ensue, etc. etc. There are countless books with this setup (this one was fine) but what I found interesting was the way the characters talked about War War I. Not to put too fine a point on it, but seeing a group of characters ambivalently linked by an event of mass trauma, death, and political upheaval negotiate the echoing space left behind struck a particular chord. I wanted to ask for a novel that explores this emotional space. Bonus points for a “getting on with things,” “new normal” vibe. It doesn’t have to be a cozy, though a moderately light tone would be nice. This is a sideways way of asking for a Downtown Abbey read-alike, I guess, but late season Downtown where there are widows who knew their husbands for all of a week and debutantes with no one to dance with at balls that aren’t done like they used to be. (Or your favorite of this type, since there are so many.) Am aware of: Brideshead Revisited, The Forsyte Saga, Howard’s End, After the Armistice Ball, Death at Wentwater Court, Maisie Dobbs series, Lord Peter Wimsey series, Her Royal Spyness, Agatha Christie, The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, The Remains of the Day -Kelly

from students of 7th/8th grade English Language Arts, something like idea of character being born again and again with deja vu, books that take place now, but without the "kids are mean to me at school" theme

4. Hi Y’all! My (almost) 12 year old daughter recently told us that she thinks she might be bi or gay. We love her and are supportive of her regardless of where she falls on the spectrum. I write in today because I’ve noticed that she has also posted on social media about wanting to read books that have either a gay or bisexual main character. Being the bookworm that I am, I would love to help her find some books that meet this criteria. Given her younger age – could I please have some recommendations for YA books that feature a bisexual or gay main character? In the past she has loved the Hunger Games series, and is a huge Harry Potter fan. She hasn’t read as much recently – and has been watching a lot of Anime and recently got into some horror. She also loves Tim Burton. Any recommendations are greatly appreciated. I love the show and Book Riot. Thanks for all you do! Thanks, –Christine

3. hello! i’ve been craving for some lighthearted witchy reads lately. i’ve read “labyrinth lost” by zoraida córdova, “children of blood and bone” by tomi adeyemi which are great, and have in my tbr pile “the bone witch” and “the heart forger” by rin chupeco. all these titles are pretty dark and, while i love my books that have witches constantly raising the dead, i could really use some bubbly, cute, less ‘everyone is gonna kill me’ witchy reads. (and if you could sprinkle in some lgbt in there, that would be amazing). -Myra

2. Hi! I’ve been in a major reading slump and the last books that really got me going had an unexpected throughline that I’d love to read more of: they were casually queer YA. By casually queer, I mean they had blantantly queer characters and romances that were important to the storyline, but the queerness wasn’t a big deal and wasn’t even particularly acknowledged. More specifically, I read The Fever King by Victoria Lee, We Set the Dark on Fire by Tehlor Kay Mejia, Every Heart a Doorway by Seanan McGuire, and Jane, Unlimited by Kristin Cashore. What else should I be reading? If possible, I’m looking for recs that I would hopefully be able to find at my library without a weeks-long hold list! -Carol

1. I love to celebrate Halloween throughout all of October, and over the last few years I’ve done a deep dive into older horror classics (in previous years I’ve read Dracula, Frankenstein, and The Legend of Sleepy Hollow). I also enjoy watching the movie adaptations of these novels. For this year’s read, I’m coming up short because despite my penchant for all things spooky, I’m kind of a scaredy cat. I tend to like Halloween reads that are more atmospheric and suspenseful rather than gross-out horror (Stephen King and anything like him are a no go). Do you have any suggestions? Bonus points if there is a movie adaptation. Thanks in advance, love the podcast, and happy spooky season! -Rebecca

7. With the world as crazy as it is now I’d love to find some really happy novels to dig into. It doesn’t matter the genre but I just need some escapism. -Lauren

1. I love your podcast and am in a pickle, I hope you can help. It’s my best friends Birthday, and she is turning 25 today! The past year has been terrible for her. She lost her dad to Covid and moved from coast to coast to be with her family. She (and I) have been feeling quite down and hopeless about love and feel that it is just not going to happen for us. I am trying to be as optimistic as possible but coming up short. She has taken strides towards making a better career for herself (in AAPI Mental health) going to grad school soon. Could you please recommend a book, fiction or non fiction, to lift up her spirits and help with the inevitable quarter life crisis? Something with preferably a happy/hopeful ending and not a lot of trauma. Look forward to your recommendation, Love, A lost Friend

7. Thanks to both of you for doing this wonderful podcast! I wish we had a similar show in Germany. Here is my question: Growing up, I was a huge fan of Gilmore Girls. Even nowadays that I‘m not Rory’s but Lorelai‘s age, I still admire the show for its wit and humor, its rapid dialogues, pop culture (+ all sorts of other) references, its strong female characters, „bookishness“ and appreciation for knowledge and being out in the world. That being said, can you think of a book/books that have a similar feel to it and manage to have both intellectual depth and wit? Strong female characters and a contemporary setting are a plus. I‘ve recently enjoyed The Female Persuasion by Meg Wolitzer, everything by Celeste Ng and the memoirs of Michelle Obama, Lisa Brennan-Jobs and Tara Westover. Thanks so much for considering this question! All the best from Germany, -Carolin

5. I have discovered this year a love of romance novels, mostly historical. However, I’d like to dip my toes in a little further into the genre and read more, especially contemporary romance. I’ve read a lot of Julia Quinn and Tessa Dare. I’m okay with some sexy times but not too much. -Lauren

3. So after reading Talia Hibbert’s Get A Life Chloe Brown on an impulse pick from my local library, I discovered that I apparently like romances now. In addition to Get A Life Chloe Brown, I’ve also read and like Hibbert’s Ravenswood series. I read the Bromance Bookclub By Lyssa Kay Adams and loved the premise and some of the conversation the guys had about feminism, but I felt like overall the book was just ok. Alyssa Cole is already on my TBR list, so I’m good there. In Hibbert’s books so far I love the quick-witted sarcastic conversations and tone of her books and the fact that she builds up to sex scenes that are fun and consensual (while still definitely steamy). Also I like nice male characters and don’t really want to read about jerks who are redeemed or healed by the power of love. I prefer modern-day romances, but am open to reading historical if it’s really good. I myself am multiracial (Native American, Black, and White) and so bonus points for a romance novel with a multiracial character or romance and extra bonus points for a book with a main character involved in fandom because I am that kind of nerd. Also I added my Goodreads link, but just FYI I kind of sucked at updating it last year. -Stephanie

5. I have discovered this year a love of romance novels, mostly historical. However, I’d like to dip my toes in a little further into the genre and read more, especially contemporary romance. I’ve read a lot of Julia Quinn and Tessa Dare. I’m okay with some sexy times but not too much. -Lauren

Wolfpack: How to Come Together, Unleash Our Power, and Change the Game

4. I want to get my mom a book her birthday. She works as a director at a basketball camp and one of her jobs is mentoring and organizing the counsellors. She likes self-help type books and I want to find one that’s about leadership in a summer camp or basketball setting, or about mentoring and working with teenagers or young adults. I love your podcast and listen to it every week! -Shannon

6. This year, I would like to read more big books (the longer the better, really) to force myself to slow down and get immersed in a story before moving on to the next shiny new book. I’ve got a few in mind (War and Peace, The Luminaries, 1Q84, A Suitable Boy) but would love some more suggestions, preferably by women or authors of colour. I’m open to any genre of fiction, though I prefer my sci-fi and fantasy on the softer side. Some of my favorites of the last few years a A Little Life, The Long Way To a Small, Angry Planet, Homegoing and Lincoln in the Bardo. Thanks! -Stacey

3. I love your show (and Book Riot) and love to play along with the “what would I recommend?” game as I listen. I never thought I would be this at sea myself, but I definitely need your help. I am an obsessive, voracious reader who love to research books and has a never-ending TBR shelf. However, lately I’ve been having a crisis of confidence, or something similar. I’m a recently unemployed baker (my bakery closed) and a creative writing MFA candidate who’s waiting around to hear back from grad schools. Normally I would be in reader heaven, but I’ve DNFed the last three books I’ve read and I just haven’t been excited by anything I’ve picked up. This feels awful!!! Can you help me restore the passion?? I normally love novels that are either hugely long and involved or super quiet and specific. Favorite writers include Donna Tartt, Marilynne Robinson, and Colm Toibin. I loved Stoner, by John Williams, and A Little Life. I do tend to hit most of the major novels out in a given year, so I guess I’m asking for things off the beaten path with quality writing and a just-can’t-put-it-down storyline. Thanks in advance for jump starting my bookish insanity yet again. — Rebecca

4. I’ll be volunteering at a remote ranger station this summer (where social distancing is built-in). I’d love to hear your recommendations for fictional women-centered stories in which the environment or setting plays a significant role. Light or dark, magical realism, horror, mystery…any genre! Some of my favorite nonfiction books related to this idea are The Hungry Ocean (Greenlaw), The Legacy of Luna (Hill), and West with the Night (Markham). I also liked The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon (King) and absolutely loved Sourdough (Sloan). (I don’t have any triggers. Preferably not graphic novels) -Roxanne

3. Hey y’all! I would like a YA book based on the dance world. I have read some nonfiction, but I would really like a fiction book. I have been dancing for 13 years, and right now am dancing primarily ballet and pointe. I do not want a drama- filled cliche book, like dance moms. Just something where dance is a huge part of the main character’s life and is really good. Thanks much! - Allison

5. I’m writing in for any recommendations for myself and my brother as we’re currently trying to work through mourning the sudden loss of our beloved dog, Izzy. He had been with us for eight years and the both of us, having never experienced losing anyone, are kind of at a loss. I’m not sure what exactly I’m looking for but I was wondering if there’s anything that validates our grief as Izzy was much more than simply a pet. Any fiction or non-fiction is welcome. Thank you so much! Sincerely, Laura

6. A good friend of mine asked me to recommend something to her along the lines of Watership Down. When pressed, she clarified that she is not looking for another book with anthropomorphized animals. She wants something else where she is so invested that she does not care if the final pages make her shed tears on the subway. It needs to be uplifting, though, so no Hanya Yanagihara. Another book that she wants to recreate the feeling of is Steinbeck’s East of Eden. Some of my ideas include A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving and The Count of Monte Cristo by Dumas. I’d love to pass along your suggestions, as well. –Laura

5. My reading interests are all over the place, which is easy in some ways because there are always lots of books I want to read, but hard to find ones that I really love. Some all-time favorites include: Random Family by Adrian Nicole LeBlanc, In Cold Blood by Truman Capote, Birds of America by Lorrie Moore, and The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver. guess I’m looking for well-written books with captivating/give me the feels characters. If you notice another common thread in those favorites, please enlighten me! –Karoline

7. In an attempt to read more non-fiction, I’m trying out reading one fiction and one non-fiction book at the same time. (I switch after each chapter.) Currently I’m reading Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer and The Essex Serpent by Sarah Perry. So far they are pairing beautifully. My next non-fiction books will be This is Going to Hurt by Adam Kay and The Nordic Theory of Everything by Anu Partanen. What fiction recommendations do you have to pair with these? Thank you, love the podcast! -Giovanna

7. My boyfriend and I have recently started reading books together but it has been difficult finding things we both enjoy. He is a fan of fast paced high fantasy stories that have similar lore to Dungeons and Dragons. I prefer more slow-burn, character driven stories that have science fiction themes. We are both fans of Jeff Vandermeer, Dark Matter by Blake Crouch, and The Stand and Pet Semetary by Stephen King. Can you please recommend a science fiction/ fantasy book that has enough action to satisfy my boyfriend and interesting characters that I can enjoy? Thanks in advance! -Jana

3. Hi! I’m looking for some books to give one of my friends for their birthday. They love sci-fi and told me some of their fave authors are Isaac Asimov, Cixin Liu, Michael Crichton, Ted Chiang, Carmen Maria Machado. This friend has told me they’ve read quite a bit by Machado and really enjoyed the Three Body Problem. Do you guys have any recommendations for sci-fi in this wheelhouse? Thanks so much! -Ashley

7. Hi! I am a big fiction reader, but I have been wanting to get into poetry recently. I will read basically anything, and lately I have been reading romance, fantasy and memoirs. I am a Hispanic 19-year old female, if that helps. I would love something a bit modern, contemporary and non-traditional. A book of poems would be ideal. Thanks! -Maria

6. Hello ladies! I’m working my way through the Read Harder Challenge and trying to find romance novels for as many of the prompts as possible – which has been really fun! Currently, I am looking for an #ownvoices romance novel from Mexico/Central America. I prefer queer, historical/fantastic themes to modern day settings, but Read Harder is all about getting out of your comfort zone so I’m open to anything. Thanks for your help 🙂 -Michelle

Hi Guys! I’m sure you’re familiar with PopSugar’s reading challenges. While I tend to find half the fun of them to be figuring out what books I will read for each category (and normally have no problem), this year’s challenge includes a category I’m having a super hard time with: A book and it’s prequel. I’ve read the Hobbit and LOTR, The Chronicles of Narnia (Because The Magicians Nephew counts as a prequel), The Lunar Chronicles, and the Hannibal Lecter series already, and enjoyed them all. I really like any kind of fiction, but I think I’d like books written by the same author, rather than a prequel written years later by someone else, if that makes sense? (Unless they’re just really that good, in which case I leave it to your judgment.) Anyway, you guys are great; I love hearing all your recommendations! Have a great day, and a great year! Thanks! –Nicole

2. Hello! I was listening to the Sarah MacLean episode of the Reading Lives podcast and really identified with her when she discussed feeling naive about Africa. While Googling books to read, I became overwhelmed. Where would you recommend that I start? Thank you!

2. I’m a children’s minister who loves books, and as such have parents asking me for recommendations for their kids elementary and middle grade ages. One type of book I’ve struggled finding is books with multi racial families especially that have foster or adopted children. These do not need to be specifically religious, just showing diverse families to show more modern day familes with fun and positive stories. Thanks in advance. Shannon

2. Hello! I am expecting my first child in July of this year. A lot of my reader/expecting mama friends are reading books about childbirth and parenting. I’ve read a couple but I’ve been finding it stressful and not helpful at this point in my pregnancy. I’m having a little girl, and my husband and I are so excited to help her become a tough, fun, smart little lady. Can you recommend any good books about daughter relationships with moms or dads even? Preferably fiction, something that will get me excited, not terrified, about becoming a mom. Thanks! –Kristin

6. My 10 year old son, 13 year old daughter and I listen to audiobooks every day on the drive to and from school, but it’s become increasingly difficult to find books that all of us like. His genre is mischievous boys making trouble. Hers is middle grade or YA fantasy. Mine is literary fiction. I need well-written and well-narrated; he wants funny and exciting but not scary; she’s the most flexible. Past successes are Mrs. Basil E. Frankenweiler, The Terrible Two series, The Mysterious Benedict Society series, the Greenglass House series, Better Nate Than Ever series, True Blue Scouts of Sugar Man Swamp, The Wednesday Wars, Imaginarium Geographica series, and obviously Harry Potter. Weirdly, neither of them liked Narnia, His Dark Materials, or Artemis Fowl. Daily drives without a good book are not fun around here! Help, please!! -Julie

1. Hi! I’ll be visiting a few cities in Alaska this summer, and I was wondering if you could recommend some books set in (relatively) modern day Alaska. Most books set in Alaska I’ve seen focus on either the Gold Rush, the Yukon (where no really lives…?), being stranded in the wilderness and having to survive, or some combination thereof. I’m more interested in the everyday lives of people in Alaska. Do these kinds of books set in Alaska even exist? Please let me know! I’m open to fiction, non-fiction, and even poetry. –Jess

2. Hi! I would like to know if you can recommend any fiction books about young women who out of challenging circumstances became successful business owners. The more inspiring, the better. Love your podcast! -Alina

7. Hi Jenn and Amanda, I would love to get some recommendations for romance novels that deal with sexual trauma or sexual dysfunction (or that just acknowledge the fact that sex isn’t always easy and fun). I’m not fussy about the type of romance (just no paranormal). I realize this may be difficult because romance is supposed to be escapist but I am desperate to see my experience represented. Thanks so much for your help! –Joss

Amanda Nelson & Jenn Northington & Sarah MacLean and Jen Prokop of the Fated Mates podcast

6. I would like to find a cozy Christmas read. I’m down for any genre, though if it is romance, I would prefer a WLW if possible. It’s not something I have come across before, but Christmas is my favorite time of year. Any help for this Christmas nerd/bookworm? -Beth

5. Hi! I’m Brazilian, and love to read about latinx lives in North America — Colombian, Porto Rican, Mexican, Cuban, Dominican, Haitian, you name it —, mainly because I enjoy seeing what other latinx cultures have in common with Brazilian culture, and also because it is the closest to my culture I can find. I have never found a Brazilian immigrant in entertainment, be it books, tv shows, movies or broadway shows. As much as I love reading about my latinx siblings, I can’t help but feel a little bit left out, since Brazil is the only country in Latin America that speaks Portuguese. If you could, I would love to read a book, preferably YA but I’d love anything really, with a Brazilian character whose culture is important to them. Thank you so much, -Maria

1. Hi, I am a 15 yr old and I love reading young adult contemporaries. But most contemporaries have the romance factor in them that I don’t like. Can you pls recommend some non-romantic but funny ya contemporaries? Regards, Niya

6. I recently started a job as a content writer for a company that owns and operates campgrounds and RV parks. I love writing and enjoy my job. The only problem is I know nothing about camping. I’ve never even been camping. Could you please recommend some books to give me some insight into camping or RV travel? Please no getting lost in the wilderness or survival type books. Thanks! –Sarah

4. Hi Amanda and Jenn, I have a long trip coming up that I am taking with my girlfriends. It’s been a tough year and I want to get away, have an adventure and take care of some things. One of the places I am going to is Cairo, Egypt. If you could please recommend books to read in Egypt, either about the history or someone travelling through Egypt, that would be great. I am okay with either fiction or non-fiction recommendations, but I don’t want it to be serious. Something lighthearted will do, if there is such a thing. Also, If you have lighthearted, even funny books about traveling adventures, that would be a bonus as well. Thank you so much and love the podcast! I leave November 5th, so recommendations before that would be great! –Maymuna

1. Hey Y’all! I am obsessed with all things FALL. Think pumpkin spice, sweaters, cinnamon, apples, I think you get the idea. I’ve been lucky to travel a lot with my job, so I’ve got to see some places that have absolutely gorgeous Falls. I think Pennsylvania has been my favorite, so far, because the whole atmosphere just felt so Fall-ish (is that a word???). I’m from Louisiana where we don’t have much of a Fall. It goes from unbearably hot, two days of gorgeous Fall weather, and then everything is brown and dead for Winter. Can y’all recommend some books that help put me in a Fall state of mind? I’m pretty open to all genres. I’m not really into science fiction or horror. I really like paranormal or magical type fiction. I would prefer something a bit more light-hearted, but I do like thrillers and non-fiction, as well. I read both YA and adult fiction. I can’t wait to hear what y’all recommend! Thanks, Sara K.

6. This year, I would like to read more big books (the longer the better, really) to force myself to slow down and get immersed in a story before moving on to the next shiny new book. I’ve got a few in mind (War and Peace, The Luminaries, 1Q84, A Suitable Boy) but would love some more suggestions, preferably by women or authors of colour. I’m open to any genre of fiction, though I prefer my sci-fi and fantasy on the softer side. Some of my favorites of the last few years a A Little Life, The Long Way To a Small, Angry Planet, Homegoing and Lincoln in the Bardo. Thanks! -Stacey

3. I’m planning a trip to Egypt this Christmas (2018) to get my fill of the sites there. Can you recommend some books, both fiction and non, that will help whet my appetite for my trips? I’m open to all stages of Egyptian history. I have already read the whole Elizabeth Peters ‘Amelia Peabody’ mysteries a couple of times and loved them. I would prefer to avoid dry boring histories and accounts for something a bit engaging especially as I tend to read to relax and don’t want to have to think too much. Bonus points for anything easily available by ebook or audiobook as I live in a country where libraries and bookstores with English books are limited in selection. –Beth

Holiday Episode, AKA Unintentional Husbands and Chocolate

7. Hi there, I am fascinated by Egyptian culture and hope to make a trip there in the near future, and I am looking for books set in Egypt (preferably by an Egyptian author). I love literary fiction and thrillers/mysteries, but lately I have been enjoying fantasy and romance. Thank you in advance for the recommendations! You all feed my ever growing TBR on a weekly basis. -Raven

5. Hi Jenn & Amanda! I love history and especially enjoy reading about strong, smart female leaders and rulers. The vast majority of the books I’ve found are about English and French queens/mistresses/duchesses etc, or occasionally Cleopatra. I’d like to branch out and would love it if you could recommend books about powerful women of Non-European history. Any historical period is fine, although I usually gravitate toward ancient or medieval history. Nonfiction is preferred, but I would be open to well researched historical fiction as well. Thanks for your help! -Sara

5. Hello, First of all, I would like to say that I love your podcast and have been listening to it while I work (I spend a lot of time copying and pasting to excel spreadsheets as a research assistant). My boyfriend of 2 years recently graduated and was asked by the company he works for to move to another state. I am stuck in one spot because I am finishing my college degree and have decided to pursue my master’s. I am determined to believe that love prevails, and that, no matter what anyone says, I’m not naive for putting so much hope into what will be a long distance relationship of several years. I’d love some recommendations for new adult books about long distance relationships. They can be sweet or angsty. What matters to me is a relationship that feels passionate and true, and a story that seems realistic, like something I could believe in for myself. Thank you so much! -Dana

2. I am in desperate need of some book recommendations. I’m usually a really big reader, but I’ve been in a bit of a slump lately and am hoping that you can help me. Problem is, I don’t really know what I’m looking for. I’m a teenager, so YA, and I really enjoy cuddly romance (I don’t like pining so the sooner the couple gets together the better) but I don’t like books that have romance as the whole plot (also, the romance doesn’t have to be male/female). I also like 1920s detective stories, sci-fi with ensemble casts, Good Omens-type books, and epic questing stories. I only ask that: it’s not SUPER heavy/dark, there is minimal pining, it isn’t a comic or graphic novel, and it is something that will hold an average teen’s attention past the first few chapters. And has a snarky side character that isn’t a human. Thanks a million! -Quinn

transphobia including deadnaming

7. Hello! I recently moved to the Arizona desert. I love it here, but we have precisely one season. Unfortunately, it isn’t autumn. (Pumpkin spice lattes don’t make sense when it’s still 105 degrees outside). I’m looking to escape into a veritable literary autumnal wonderland. Can you recommend any books that absolutely scream “fall”? They don’t have to be spooky or Halloween-y, but it’s ok if they are. Thank you so much!

4. Hi ladies! Thanks so much for all the bookish fun! I’m looking for a book of poetry as a gift for my spouse. They like Rilke’s Sonnets to Orpheus, Paul Celan, and other lyrical poems about the human condition. Themes of love and inspiration are ideal but not required. I would prefer to support a living poet, and appreciate any recommendations! Thanks! -Lindsey

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

6. Hello, I have been enjoying your podcast and hope you can help me. We are Muslim Americans, and this political season has been difficult. I have a 14 year old son and a 12 year old daughter, and would like to find literature that shows our faith in a positive light. We have read “I am Malala,” and my daughter loves Ms. Marvel. Bonus if the setting is India. Thank you –Sameera

4. Could you recommend a fantasy or sci-fi read-alike for The Goblin Emperor by Katherine Addison? The things I like most about it are the fantasy elements, the fact that the main character is a person in power who leads responsibly because he’s genuinely a good, empathetic person, and the way that the protagonist learns to assert and value himself slowly throughout the book. Either way, thanks for your time! I appreciate you and your work! -Laura

The Taxonomy of Mythological Creatures is Really Up for Debate Here

https://bookriot.com/listen/the-taxonomy-of-mythological-creatures-is-really-up-for-debate-here/

5. I am looking for recommendations for fiction set in parts of history that had major societal change. The Enlightenment interests me particularly, but any social revolution would be great! Bonus points if the book has female perspectives. Happy reading, -Michelle

3. I recently came out as nonbinary after several years of being out as queer/bi. I am looking for a book with queer or nonbinary characters, though that certainly doesn’t need to be the focus of the book. I would just like to see more of myself represented in the things I read, and I knew you two would do a fantastic job! I like a little bit of everything, and I don’t shy away from YA or children’s books (Jessica Love’s Julian is a Mermaid is what inspired me to come out as nonbinary!). I would just say no religious books, please, and bonus points if the book is written by a queer or nonbinary author. Side note – thank you for this beautiful podcast! I have found so many books because of it, and I just adore you two. -Cheyenne

5. I am hoping to find a book that explores being nonbinary globally and historically. I am hoping for a non fiction read, but a well researched fiction book would also be great. Hope you’re having a great weekend, thanks! -Catie

sexual assault, mental illness, self harm

5. HOLIDAY REQUEST – I’m looking for a book to gift my roommate. She enjoys reading memoirs and contemporary fiction, I know that she’s read and enjoyed books such as When Breath Becomes Air and Crying in H Mart. I’m looking to give her an adult fiction book (without any fantasy elements) that might give her the same feel as a memoir because it focuses on/has a very highly developed main character. Bonus points if the MC is part of the LGBTQ+ community. I’m thinking about giving her The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, but any other recommendations would be greatly appreciated! -Quinn

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

1. My dad retired this year, and previous to 2019 had NEVER READ A BOOK- like, no joke-not even at school! But this year, he started picking up books (3 to be exact) and asked for “a book” for his birthday. So .. he’s not really sure what he likes in books- he read two memoirs (old rock n roll guys) and one hyper local history about the town he grew up in. He’s probably not a fiction guy, or ready for fiction. It’s such a clean slate I’m overwhelmed by where to go with this! He likes classic cars, late night tv, SNL, Will Ferrell sense of humor, he worked in television for 40 years, local to both/either Cleveland Ohio and Portland Maine. Not into politics. A note: I am planning on getting him Kitchen Confidential because I mentioned it to him & he thought that sounded fun. -Cate

Hi Get Booked/Amanda, I am due to have my first baby on 16th Oct and am looking for good books to read that don’t require a lot of brain space. We recently read The Count of Monte Cristo in my book group and it made me realise how little concentration I currently have – I couldn’t keep that many characters in my head at all. I’m looking for books that are well written but can be read in a zombie-esque, sleep-declined state. I’m not necessarily looking for new parent-type books. I normally read fiction but like a wide range of genres – historical, crime, literary, fantasy. Whatever really! Thanks for your help 🙂

I’m new to the Book Riot community (shout out to the guys at Overdue for pointing me in your direction) and I’ve pretty much blown through all of your previous episodes. Thanks for contributing to my ever-growing TBR problem. But I’ve got a bit of a book problem at the moment, and no amount of googling has been able to help me with this. I’m a nursing student and I currently work with an at-home hospice service. I’m desperate for books to read to patients who are not as reactive or social as others. I’m usually speaking to elderly patients, some with varying degrees of dementia, but they enjoy hearing books read aloud even if they cannot necessarily understand them. I need something squeaky clean, easy to read, but doesn’t come off as patronizing or childish to any family members hanging around. If you could give me any kind of series or a couple long-ish titles I would really appreciate it. Thanks again! Olivia

4. My best friend recently came to me looking for a good recommendation. She’s in her mid-twenties, and coming back to reading fiction after almost a decade of solid non-fiction or only school assigned reading. Her favorite books growing up were all of the Nancy Drew books. She loved the exploration piece of Nancy’s adventures and the classy, curious nature of Nancy and her friends. Do you have any recommendations for adult mystery series that would scratch this itch? Like I said, she hasn’t read almost any fiction in a decade, so backlist titles are welcome! One other caveat: my friend works with a lot of special circumstance children, so mysteries that are excessively sexually graphic or violent are hard reads for her after a long day of dealing with the real life versions. Hope you can help! -Jessica

6. Hello! I love the podcast, and I look forward to it all week! I wrote in asking for a recommendation before the show started, but I haven’t heard my question, so I thought I would submit it again in case it was lost in the shuffle. I hope that’s not a problem. I’m looking for ideas of a series of books to read. I love to read, and I read quite a bit. The problem is I hate looking for new books. I would love to get started in a new series that could last quite awhile. I tend to read fairly widely, but I’m not a huge fan of sci-fi. For the right books, I would read pretty much any genre though. Thanks –Casey

7. Cozy nothings? It could be the weather or just the year, but I’ve been enjoying “nothing of contention happens” books recently. My go to series for this is The Cat Who series by Lilian Jackson Braun which is set in a fictional small town and focuses primarily on the day to day life of people there (technically it’s a cozy mystery, but the mystery is pretty minimal). Other examples would be Anne of Green Gables, Little Women, Agatha Christie (before the murder kicks in) and the Mitford series. Contemporary or classical, adult lit series preferred, and bonus points if they’re on audio. -Terry

6. Please help with audiobooks for a concussed reader! Hi! I am a voracious reader, and after concussing myself on a freezer 10 days ago, I haven’t been allowed to read text. I’m going into withdrawal! I am a very eclectic reader, but generally I am more drawn to plot than characters. Humor, particularly snark, is always a plus, as well as just beautiful writing. Authors I love that I am in the mood for are Lois McMaster Bujold (particularly her Vorkosigan series, Cordelia is my favorite character), John Scalzi (particularly the Old Man’s War series) and also Laurie R King (particularly her Mary Russell series). For beautiful writing, see China Mieville, though his books are way too complex for my poor brain to follow right now. Speaking of which, easy to follow is important right now! I’m having trouble with that.-Becca

7. Hello, book friends! I am seeking an adult book that features a child character(s). Most YA features teenagers, not younger kids, and while middle grade books can be fun, I seek something more advanced. The kid(s) don’t need to be the only protagonist or even necessarily a pov character, but they should be a big part of the story, and they should be real characters instead of a plot device. Sci-fi, fantasy, or maybe mystery, please! (P.S. Not the Broken Earth books by NK Jemisin, I’ve read those already! <3) -Anna

1. Travel request: books about/set in Hawaii! Going to Maui, Big Island, and Oahu. Have already put the True to Me series on hold, and have tried Freckled (not going to Kauai and its not that good anyway…). I have also already read The Unhoneymooners (loved). Also have another memoir on hold already called West of Then. Not looking for a dense read but nonfiction okay. I’m a BIG middle grade novel reader because I teach fourth grade, so please, all ages welcome. YA okay also. Thank you for recommending 2AM at the Cat’s Pajamas a While Back. LOVED IT. WELL DONE YOU!!!! You are my favorite in the podcastiverse. -Laura

5. Love the show and hearing your recommendations. I’ve been starting to get into classical music, but know so little about it that I feel a bit overwhelmed trying to familiarize myself the different eras, composers, etc. I was wondering if you have a classical music inspired recommendation. It could be a nonfiction pick, maybe a memoir, or even a work of fiction where classical music is part of the essence. I’ve seen good reviews for “Counterpoint: A Memoir of Bach and Mourning” so I’m already interested in picking that one up. -Eric

1. Hi there!! I will be traveling in May from my home in Canada to Glasgow and the island of Iona. I’ve read quite a bit about Iona but don’t know much about Glasgow, so I’m looking for books, fiction and/or non-fiction, that tell the stories of the city. A few years ago when I was preparing for travel to Edinburgh, I read most of the Rebus mystery series and found it was a great way to acquaint myself with the city. So fiction that is set in Glasgow might be a good place to start. I’m not looking for travelogues per se, but a narrative non-fiction about life in Glasgow would also be great. Thanks in advance, Sue

5. Hello! I love reading about heroes and triumph in the face of adversity. I just re-watched “300” for about the millionth time. I love this movie! I know the battle of Thermopylae is not technically a victory, but the sacrifice of the Spartans allowed for a victory down the line. Do you know of any books with this similar topic? Strong men willing to sacrifice for a greater good? I also love anything from WW I or II regarding this same subject. Thank you and God Bless! -Catherine

5. Hello! I love reading about heroes and triumph in the face of adversity. I just re-watched “300” for about the millionth time. I love this movie! I know the battle of Thermopylae is not technically a victory, but the sacrifice of the Spartans allowed for a victory down the line. Do you know of any books with this similar topic? Strong men willing to sacrifice for a greater good? I also love anything from WW I or II regarding this same subject. Thank you and God Bless! -Catherine

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

4. Hi, I love, love, love to read! It pains me that several of my nieces/nephews have not picked up the habit. Could you give me some recommendations for some grab me/must read books. I usually give them all money for Christmas and would love to tuck it into a book. 6 girls 19-21 y.o. and 1 nephew who is a senior in HS. Love the podcast. Sometimes I just nod along in agreement. It is so much fun just to talk about books!! Thanks, Michelle

5. Hi! I’m Brazilian, and love to read about latinx lives in North America — Colombian, Porto Rican, Mexican, Cuban, Dominican, Haitian, you name it —, mainly because I enjoy seeing what other latinx cultures have in common with Brazilian culture, and also because it is the closest to my culture I can find. I have never found a Brazilian immigrant in entertainment, be it books, tv shows, movies or broadway shows. As much as I love reading about my latinx siblings, I can’t help but feel a little bit left out, since Brazil is the only country in Latin America that speaks Portuguese. If you could, I would love to read a book, preferably YA but I’d love anything really, with a Brazilian character whose culture is important to them. Thank you so much, -Maria

1. One of my best friends just got accepted to volunteer with the Peace Corps in Samoa. For her birthday, I want to give her a book that will get her (extra) hyped about the experience; she’s already done a ton of research so I’m not necessarily looking for something informative so much as something that’s just fun! I would love something focused on Samoa/South Pacific (that should probably skip the stranded-on-a-tropical-island trope because we’re trying to be excited here). I was thinking of something more contemporary than Margaret Mead or Robert Louis Stevenson–maybe even something Own Voices but doesn’t have to be. It doesn’t necessarily have to relate to Peace Corps/volunteering/etc., but that would be cool too. She reads mostly fiction and some memoir but not a lot of straight non-fiction. Recently, she’s been reading and enjoying books like “The Bees” by Laline Paull, “Less” by Andrew Sean Greer, and “Young Jane Young” by Gabrielle Zevin. Some of her forever favorites are “Don’t Let’s Go To the Dogs Tonight” by Alexandra Fuller, “The Girls from Corona Del Mar” by Rufi Thorpe, “Egg and Spoon” by Gregory Maguire, and anything Tom Robbins. Thank you! –Cel

Hello! Dear Amanda, I was hoping you could recommend some well written horror fiction. I am a huge fan of horror movies and I read quite a bit but I usually stick to literary fiction and non-fiction. The only horror novels that I can recall reading are Frankenstein and the “Goosebumps” I read as a pre-teen. I love Poe but never got into King. I can appreciate the cheesiness of a low-budget horror film but I am less amused by bad books. Heeeelp! –Corinna

6. Amanda & Jenn, First off, I love the podcast! Thank you for all the great recommendations. I’ve written in a few times with requests, so sorry if you keep seeing my name pop up! This time I’m writing requesting recommendations for my 15 year old son. He is a rather reluctant reader but very much enjoys listening to audiobooks when we take road trips. If we don’t finish the audiobook in the car he asks me to buy it for him to finish in book form. He mostly likes dystopian novels, preferably with some type of corrupt government. He’s enjoyed 1984, A Clockwork Orange, Fahrenheit 451 & Ready Player One. Not in that theme he read & enjoyed The Outsiders. His book suggestions mostly come from what his friends are reading in school. I’ve tried a few times to pick up books I thought he would like but haven’t been able to find anything he got in to. I tried The Maze Runner, The 5th Wave & I can’t remember what else. Any suggestions? Thank you! –Valerie

1. I’m looking to expand my reading, geographically speaking. I’d love some recommendations for books from South American authors (in English translation). I like fiction, nonfiction, and graphic novels but I am picky about the kind of fiction I like. I don’t like surrealism, magical realism, most fantasy at all, or horror. I like books with a strong plot. I like some science fiction but not very much. I do like historical fiction, family novels, contemporary fiction, and what’s described as “literary fiction” and “women’s fiction” — though I hate both of those terms! South American authors I have tried in the past and given up on include Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Isabel Allende, Jorge Luis Borges, and Paulo Coelho. Can you help? I mean, I wish you could help me with my aversion to magical realism, surrealism, and non-linear plots, but given that’s likely impossible, how about recs for books from South America that fit the tastes I am cursed with? -Sarah

Here’s Looking at Euclid: A Surprising Excursion Through the Astonishing World of Math

7. Hi there! I have a TIME SENSITIVE request, I need recommendations by June 2020 if possible. I have decided to do the Pop Sugar Reading Challenge for 2020 and am struggling to find a book for the prompt “a book with a pun in the title.” Here are my general criteria: –NO COZY MYSTERIES –No m/f romance (f/f or m/m is fine) –Generally prefer nonfiction, literary fiction/contemporary fiction, historical fiction, but am willing to try just about anything other than cozy mysteries or m/f romance. Thank you -Sibyl