Drinks in the Library

1984 by George Orwell with Sam Helmick, President of the American Library Association 2026

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 07:30:00 +0000

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Set in a totalitarian superstate, George Orwell's 1984 follows Winston Smith, an official tasked with rewriting history to align with state propaganda. Driven by a desperate yearning for truth and individuality, Winston rebels against the regime by keeping a forbidden diary and pursuing a secret love affair. Ultimately, he is captured by the Thought Police, subjected to brutal psychological torture, and brainwashed into unquestioning submission.

My guest this week is the 2025-26 President of the American Library Association, Sam Helmick! They work as a Community and Access Services Coordinator at the Iowa City Public Library. Sam has served as a member of the ALA Executive Board and as president of the Iowa Library Association. They previously served as chair-elect of the Intellectual Freedom Round Table and chair of the Iowa Governor’s Commission of Libraries. They have served on many committees within the American Library Association and have held leadership roles at multiple levels. Sam is a 2016 Emerging Leader, as well as an author, consultant, and instructor in social media marketing and graphic design.

Sam and I had this conversation over a Smokey Whiskey, which felt like some of the moments in the book, held in smokey bars and back rooms. My exact recommendation is the Bourbon & Spire Oak and Eden, forever one of my favorites!

The Golden Compass by Phillip Pullman with Laura McAsh

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 05:30:00 +0000

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Set in a world where every person’s soul exists outside their body in the form of an animal companion called a dæmon, The Golden Compass follows a brave young girl named Lyra Belacqua as she uncovers a sinister plot involving kidnapped children. Lyra journeys from the halls of Jordan College to the frozen Arctic in search of answers to her questions about power, knowledge, and free will.

Laura McAsh a writer of whimsical worlds and a creator of quirky characters. A library clerk by day, Laura is a neurodivergent nerd passionate about diversity, inclusion, and representation. Beginning her undergrad at the University of Guelph, she completed her Bachelor of General Studies (Arts and Sciences Designation) with distinction at Athabasca University. A collector of hobbies and interests, she is a lover of all animals and is always down for grabbing nachos with friends or snuggling with her cat, Dinosaur. Don’t miss her debut novel Alison’s Adventures in Time!

Our drink this week is a Hungarian Wine, a reference to a scene in the story where Lord Asriel, Lyra’s uncle is almost poisoned with Hungarian white wine. You can pick any brand you like, I went with Kiwi Cuvee Pinot Grigio.

The Seven Daughters of Dupree by Nikesha Elise Williams with Rhonda McKnight

Tue, 26 May 2026 10:22:35 +0000

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In Nikesha Elise Williams’ The Seven Daughters of Dupree, it's 1995, and fourteen-year-old Tati is determined to uncover the identity of her father. But her mother, Nadia, keeps her secrets close, while her grandmother Gladys remains silent about the family's past, including why she left Land's End, Alabama, in 1953. As Tati’s search deepens, she uncovers a legacy of family secrets, where every generation of Dupree women has posed more questions than answers.

Guest

Even as she pursued degrees in Textile Technology, Organizational Leadership and finally, Adult Education, Rhonda McKnight’s love for books and desire to write stories was always in the back of her mind. She loves reading and writing stories that touch the heart of women through complex plots and interesting characters in crisis. She writes from the comfort of her South Carolina home. Don’t miss her latest books of women’s fiction Bitter & Sweet, and Writer in Residence, which you can pre-order now and will be published on September 8, 2026! You can find Rhonda on Instagram & Threads @AuthorRhondaMcKnight.

Southern Peach Sweet Tea

Ingredients

4 black tea bags
4 cups water
3 ripe peaches, sliced
1/2 to 3/4 cup sugar
Ice
Fresh peach slices for garnish (optional)

Directions

Bring 4 cups of water to a boil
Turn off the heat and add the tea bags. Let the tea steep for about 5 minutes. Remove the tea bags.
Add the sliced peaches and sugar to the hot tea. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
Let the peaches sit in the tea for about 20 minutes so the flavor comes through.
Pour the tea through a strainer into a large pitcher or bowl and allow to cool.
Fill mason jars with ice and pour in the peach sweet tea.
Garnish with fresh peach slices if you like, and serve cold.

How to Save Your Own Life by Erica Jong with Selene Castrovilla

Tue, 19 May 2026 07:30:00 +0000

In How to Save Your Own Life, Erica Jong follows novelist Isadora Wing as she grapples with fame, aging, marriage, and the search for personal freedom after the success of her earlier books. Blending sharp humor with emotional honesty, the novel explores identity, desire, and self-reinvention in the face of midlife uncertainty.

Award-winning author and creator Selene Castrovilla explores the courage, conscience, and reinvention that shape both nations and ourselves. She has written historical books for children including George Washington's Spectacular Spectacles: the glasses that saved America.She has a book for adults called Love the Ones Your With under the pen name SJ Perrault which will be coming out later this year. She also hosts a podcast Life in Jest with her best friend Pascale, which will feature me in an upcoming episode, I’m so excited! You can find out more at her website https://selenecastrovilla.com/ and also under her SJ Perrault name on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/s.j.perraultauthor

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@s.j.perraultauthor

Support Drinks In The Library by following on Patreon, for just $5 a month you will get ad-free episodes, bonus content, and support my work and the podcast!

Our drink this week needs no explanation:

The Life Saver Cocktail

Ingredients

3 oz dry champagne
½ oz triple sec
Squeeze of fresh lemon juice

Directions

Pour the triple sec and fresh lemon juice into a champagne flute.
Top slowly with chilled dry champagne.
Give it a gentle stir and serve immediately.

The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah with Kara Infante

Tue, 12 May 2026 10:52:44 +0000

The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah follows two sisters in Nazi-occupied France as they navigate love, loss, resistance, and survival during World War II. Through their very different paths, the novel explores the courage of ordinary women and the sacrifices made in the face of war.

My guest this week is Kara Infante, a mom, wife and host of the Bookish Flights Podcast At Bookish Flights, Kara Infante and her guests tell their stories through the books they love. Each episode features a book flight - three thoughtfully paired books connected by a theme, topic, or genre. Think of it like a wine flight…but for books. Kara and I are both on each other’s shows this week, so head over there to hear me talk about 3 books I love by Xochitl Gonzalez

Drink Options:

Lyre’s Classico NA Sparkling Wine

Lavender French 75

Ingredients

1 ½ oz Empress gin
¾ oz fresh lemon juice
½ oz lavender simple syrup
3 oz chilled champagne or prosecco
Ice

Optional garnish:

Lemon twist
Dried culinary lavender

Directions

Add gin, lemon juice, and lavender simple syrup to cocktail shaker with ice.
Shake well until chilled.
Strain into a champagne flute or coupe.
Top with sparkling wine
Garnish with a lemon twist or a pinch of dried lavender.

In this episode

Bookish Flight Episode with Kristin Hannah

Books by Tracy Lange

The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife by Anna Johnston

The Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Hartnett

The Vanishing Half by Britt Bennett

Books by Kate Quinn

Books by Marie Benedict

Great Expectations by Charles Dickens with Francine Prose

Tue, 05 May 2026 10:48:16 +0000

Great Expectations by Charles Dickens follows Pip, an orphan who rises from humble beginnings after receiving a mysterious fortune, believing it will transform him into a gentleman worthy of love. As he navigates London society, Pip becomes entangled with the eccentric Miss Havisham and her cold ward Estella, while slowly uncovering the true source of his wealth.

Francine Prose is the author of twenty-two works of fiction, including The Vixen, Mister Monkey, the New York Times bestseller Lovers at the Chameleon Club, Paris 1932, A Changed Man, and Blue Angel, a finalist for the National Book Award. Her nonfiction includes the modern classic Reading Like a Writer and the acclaimed memoir 1974: A Personal History. A former president of PEN America and a member of both the American Academy of Arts and Letters and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, she is widely regarded as one of our most insightful and versatile contemporary writers. Her latest book, Five Weeks in the Country explores a fascinating moment which Francine describes as this: “In 1857, Hans Christian Andersen visited Charles Dickens, his wife and nine children in the British countryside for five comically and heartbreakingly awkward weeks. Telling their story seemed like the perfect way to talk about writing, love, marriage, children and two brilliant authors: a public figure in crisis and a houseguest, more at home in his fairy tales than in life, who overstays his welcome.”

Valentine’s Claret Punch is our drink pairing, and is what Dickens and Anderson were drinking the night they met and led to the misunderstanding that led Anderson to believe he should visit the Dickens family for an extended stay!

In this Episode

Great Expectations - John Mills Film

Great Expectations - 1998 Version

Sole Survivor by Derek Hansen with Heather Morris

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 07:30:28 +0000

In Sole Survivor by Derek Hansen, Rosie Trethewey leaves her unhappy city life after inheriting a remote shack on New Zealand’s Great Barrier Island, hoping for a fresh start. There, she meets two isolated and troubled neighbors, Red O’Hara, a traumatized former prisoner of war, and Angus McLeod, a bitter retired policeman, whose lives she gradually changes. As outside forces threaten their island home, the three form an unlikely bond and learn to heal from the pain of their pasts.

My guest this week is author Heather Morris. In 2003, Heather met Lale Sokolov, whose story inspired The Tattooist of Auschwitz, now one of the 21st century’s bestselling books and adapted in 2024 as a widely acclaimed Stan Original Series. It was followed by Cilka’s Journey and Three Sisters, completing the Tattooist trilogy.

Her first contemporary novel, The Wish, was inspired by her years working in a public hospital, alongside families facing the toughest of times with love and courage. The Wish’s US publication date is May 5, 2026. Her upcoming novel, The Piano Teacher of Montparnasse, releases in October 2026, and tells the story of French Resistance fighter Andrée Levallois, who risked her life to protect one of her students during the war. Heather’s books have sold over 19 million copies worldwide.

The drink this week is one Heather enjoys on vacation, and I enjoy most days: Chardonnay! I have to note that since Heather is in Australia and I am in the US, during the actual recording of this she was enjoying her morning coffee while I sipped a cold glass of wine.

In this Episode

Books by Heather Morris

Pākehā population New Zealand

Māori People

Crowded House Band

Neil Finn

Shark Heart by Emily Habeck with Ashley Hall

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 07:30:10 +0000

Shark Heart by Emily Habeck is a surreal love story about newlyweds Wren and Lewis, whose marriage is upended when Lewis is diagnosed with a rare condition that will slowly transform him into a great white shark. As they confront grief, change, and the limits of love, the novel uses magical realism to explore what it means to stay connected when life becomes unrecognizable.

A nonprofit leader by day, Ashley spends her free time volunteering; chasing down Richmond’s best hikes and restaurants with her friends, family, and pup; and adventuring across the globe. A recovering English major, she’ll take any excuse to turn a good read into a great conversation.

Ashley is the Executive Director of Communities in Schools Chesterfield, and on May 12th they are having their first ever Adult Spelling Bee Fundraiser! You should definitely come to raise some money for a great cause, also - I will be one of their “Celebrity Spellers” so come witness me failing horribly at spelling!

Spelling bee tickets: https://cisofchesterfield.networkforgood.com/events/96878-cis-c-adult-spelling-bee-extravaganza

Searn more about CIS: www.cisofchesterfield.org

Our drink this week is the Metamorphosis Cocktail, which I absolutely loved - it literally changes colors!

Metamorphosis Cocktail

Ingredients

2 oz gin

1 oz butterfly pea tea (cooled)

¾ oz fresh lemon juice

½ oz Simple Syrup

Ice

Optional flair:

Edible glitter

Black sugar or salt rim

Lemon twist or edible flower

Directions:

Brew butterfly pea tea by steeping 1–2 tsp dried flowers in ½ cup hot water for 5–7 minutes; strain and cool.

Fill a glass with ice and add 2 oz gin + 1 oz cooled butterfly pea tea.

Slowly pour in ¾ oz fresh lemon juice and watch the color change from blue to purple.

Stir in ½ oz simple syrup to taste, then garnish if desired.

In This Episode

Shadowlands Film Quote (I could not remember who to attribute this to while we were recording)

Speculative Fiction

Culpability by Bruce Holsinger with Barbara Ferrara

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 10:15:41 +0000

Culpability by Bruce Holsinger is a techno-thriller and family drama about the moral fallout of a fatal crash involving an autonomous minivan. The novel follows the Cassidy-Shaw family as they confront guilt, secrets, and the ethical questions surrounding AI after their teenage son, Charlie, is involved in the accident while the car is in self-driving mode. It explores themes of technology's impact on human relationships, corporate greed, and the complex dynamics between parents and teenagers.

My guest this week is Barbara Ferrara. She is a librarian, mother, lifelong learner, passionate reader who loves to travel and is currently learning Spanish.

Our drink this week is an Old Fashioned, since it is the opposite of AI. I also made sure to pick a Virginian bourbon, since the author, Bruce Holsinger, lives here in Virginia! I went with the Tarnished Truth Bourbon, which is brewed in the famous Cavalier Hotel at Virginia Beach!

Old Fashioned Recipe

1 teaspoon sugar

3 dashes Angostura bitters

1 teaspoon water

2 ounces bourbon (or rye whiskey, if preferred)

Garnish: orange twist

In This Episode

Meta AI book heist

Desc ript

The Gifted School by Bruce Holsinger

Tickets to Live Show with Meg Medina April 18th

We All Want Impossible Things by Catherine Newman with Lindsey Goldstein

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 07:30:20 +0000

We All Want Impossible Things is a tender, darkly funny novel about friendship, grief, and letting go. It follows Ash as she supports her best friend Edi through the final stages of illness, capturing the small, intimate moments that define a lifelong bond. The story balances humor and heartbreak while exploring love, loss, and what it means to say goodbye.

Lindsey Goldstein is the author of Gap Year Her essays about love and parenting have appeared in The New York Times, The Chicago Story Press, Kveller, and The Sunlight Press. She lives in Irvine, CA with her husband, kids, and rescue mutt. You can find her on her website Lindseygoldsteinauthor.com and on Instagram and Threads @GoldsteinLindsey

We recorded this with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc, a favorite of Lindsey’s and one I recommend for Spring! In particular I drank a glass of Leia Vinters Sauvignon Blanc.

In This Episode

The Dinosaurs on Netflix

Crone Sandwich -Catherine Newman’s Substack

Tickets to Live Show with Meg Medina April 18th

Nature’s Best Hope by Douglas W. Tallamy with Leslie Eva Tayloe

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 07:30:44 +0000

Nature's Best Hope by Douglas W. Tallamy argues that everyday homeowners can play a critical role in reversing biodiversity loss by transforming their yards into thriving ecosystems. Tallamy explains how replacing traditional lawns with native plants supports insects, birds, and other wildlife that depend on them for survival. The book offers a hopeful, practical roadmap for collective environmental impact through small, local actions.

Leslie Eva Tayloe is an award winning children’s picture book author. She’s the author of The Attic Door, a 2024 Story Monster’s Approved Award, and a 2025 Literary Titan Gold Book Award, Save the Trees, a 2024 Moonbean Bronze Medalist for environmental issues, and Longlisted for the 2025 Green Earth Book Award, and I’m Fishing with Pop-Pop Today. Leslie also authored an article titled, Marketing Group Helps Writers (Children’s Book Insider, April 2023). She is a former analyst with the federal government, and a substitute teacher for elementary school-aged children. Leslie lives with her partner, Michael, in Virginia. When Leslie isn’t writing, she loves to fish on the Rappahannock River, read, do crafts, and take long walks with her dog, Frankie.

In this episode we both enjoyed a glass of 19 Crimes Cali Red Wine, which is a favorite of Leslie’s!

In this Episode

Invasive vs. Native Plants )Virginia)

Homegrown National Park

Fredericksburg Goat Farm

Aldo Leopold

The Hidden Life of Trees by Peter Wollenben

In the Time of The Butterflies by Julia Alvarez with Fran Dorsey

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 11:24:30 +0000

In the Time of the Butterflies by Julia Alvarez follows sisters Patria, Minerva, María Teresa, and Dedé Mirabal as they defy the brutal regime of Rafael Trujillo. It’s a powerful story of courage, sisterhood, and the price of resistance.

Fran Dorsey is a mom, digital content manager, and writer who grew up loving the internet. When she’s not writing or busy with her kids and husband, she’s trying to close the rings on her Apple Watch. She’s also always ready with a book recommendation for her friends. You can find her on Instagram and Threads @FranDorsey—don’t miss her hilarious memes—and check out her Substack, Frannie Pack.

Cuba Libre Drink

Ingredients

2 ounces rum

1 lime wedge

Coca-Cola, to top

Garnish: lime wheel

Steps

Fill a highball glass with ice and add the rum.

Squeeze in the juice from 1/4 of a lime and drop in the spent peel.

Top with the Coca-Cola, then give a brief and gentle stir.

Garnish with a lime wheel.

In this Episode

The Mirabal Sisters

Hobnail Drinking Glasses - AKA the Millennial glasses

Mariposa Cocktail

Hermanas Mirabel Province

Everything is Tuberculosis by John Green

Open Book by Jessica Simpson

Style Weekly Best of Richmond - Vote!

Tickets to Live Show with Meg Medina April 18th

Gone by Michael Grant with Fiona Fenn

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 13:00:47 +0000

Gone by Michael Grant is a gripping dystopian novel in which everyone over the age of fifteen suddenly disappears from a small California town, leaving the kids to survive on their own inside a mysterious barrier. As food runs out and strange powers begin to emerge, the remaining children must confront fear, chaos, and the struggle for control in a world with no adults.

Fiona Fenn is an author of fantasy novels that put complicated “heroes” front and center. A fan of villains, redemption arcs, and intense explorations of healing in all its forms, her debut novel,

The Crack at the Heart of Everything, is a love letter to every villain who wanted to do better but never got the chance. The City that Shattered the World is the second book in the series and will be coming out in October 2026!

Drink Blackberry Survival Smash

Ingredients

2 oz bourbon or dark rum

¾ oz fresh lemon juice

½ oz honey syrup

4–5 blackberries (muddled)

2–3 mint leaves

Splash of soda water

Instructions

Muddle blackberries, mint, and honey syrup in a shaker.

Add bourbon and lemon juice with ice.

Shake well and strain into a rocks glass over ice.

Top with a splash of soda and garnish with a blackberry.

In This Episode

Sarah J. Maas

The Spoken World Podcast - Michael Grant Episode

Sweet Valley High Books

Heated Rivalry

Our Rogue Fates by Sarah Glenn Marsh

Style Weekly Best of Richmond - Vote!

Tickets to Live Show with Meg Medina April 18th

On Beauty by Zadie Smith with Virginia Pye

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 07:30:25 +0000

On Beauty by Zadie Smith follows two feuding families—the liberal Belseys and the conservative Kippses—whose lives collide in a New England university town, exploring themes of race, family, politics, and love through sharp satire and witty dialogue.

Kirkus Reviews calls Marriage and Other Monuments, Virginia Pye’s recently published book, “A fascinating and audacious novel of family, marriage and a society in flux.” It is a #1 Amazon bestseller in New Southern FictionVirginia’s essays have appeared in The New York Times, Literary Hub, Publisher’s Weekly, Writer’s Digest, The Rumpus, and elsewhere. She has taught writing at New York University and the University of Pennsylvania, and, most recently, at GrubStreet in Boston. Virginia is Fiction Editor of the literary journal Pangyrus and serves on the board of the Women’s National Book Association, Boston Chapter.

Drink this week: The Zadie Smith - obvi! This recipe is from the book: Free the Tipple: Kickass Cocktails Inspired by Iconic Women - Check it out!

In this Episode

Marriage and Other Monuments by Virginia Pye

Style Weekly Best of Richmond 2026

Free the Tipple: Kickass Cocktails Inspired by Iconic Women

Tickets to Live Show with Meg Medina April 18th

Tender is the Flesh by Agustina Bazterrica with Ashley Peters

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 08:30:29 +0000

Tender is the Flesh by Agustina Bazterrica is a dystopian horror novel where a virus makes all animal meat poisonous, leading to the legalization and industrialization of human cannibalism! Yes, it’s quite a story by Argentine author Bazterrica, but it also does what great horror does so well, that it makes you think about parallels in our real world, and led to an amazing conversation between myself and author Ashley Peters!

Author Ashley Peters resides in East Austin, Texas, with her partner, Danny, and their three rescue mutts—Bently, Fredrik, and Bruno. A self-declared bibliophile and lifelong storyteller, she has been crafting tales since childhood, along the way writing for various scholarships and minor publications before fully committing herself to the realm of novel creation.

When she is not writing, she can be found immersed in nature, far from the noise of the world—hiking, kayaking, savoring inventive cuisine, or enjoying a matcha latte. At home, her garden and personal library serve as sanctuaries, though she deeply appreciates the artistic and quirky spirit that defines Austin. Having traveled extensively, she credits each place and community with shaping her life in meaningful and lasting ways. While she cannot predict what lies ahead, she embraces each new chapter as an opportunity for adventure, always ready to choose a daring side quest over a mundane path.

Our drink is a very dark Blackberry Margarita, and the reason we picked it? Well, I’ll let you figure that one out 😂

Blackberry Margarita

Ingredients

2 oz silver tequila

1 oz fresh lime juice

1 oz blackberry syrup

0.5 oz grenadine

Black sugar, for rimming

Crushed ice

Fresh blackberries, for garnish

Directions

Prepare your glass. Use a lime wedge to moisten the rim of a margarita or cocktail glass. Dip the rim into a shallow plate of black sugar, rotating gently to coat evenly. Set aside.

Combine ingredients. In a cocktail shaker, add the silver tequila, fresh lime juice, blackberry syrup, and grenadine. Fill the shaker with crushed ice.

Shake thoroughly. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds, until the outside of the shaker feels frosty and the drink is well chilled.

Serve. Fill the prepared glass with fresh crushed ice. Strain the mixture into the glass.

Garnish. Add a few fresh blackberries on top. Serve immediately!

In this Episode

Tickets to my Live Interview with Award Winning Author Meg Medina at the Bon Air Book Festival

Bon Air Book Festival

Monkeypaw Productions

Thrutopian Fiction

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen with Alexandra Potter

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 08:30:39 +0000

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen is a sharp, witty exploration of love, class, and social expectation in Regency-era England, centered on the spirited Elizabeth Bennet and the enigmatic Mr. Darcy. As misunderstandings and first impressions give way to self-awareness, the novel reveals how pride and prejudice can obscure, and ultimately illuminate, the path to happiness.

Alexandra Potter always dreamed of becoming a writer. After graduating from the University of Liverpool with a degree in English Literature, she moved to London, where she worked for various magazines. A brief detour—sparked by redundancy—led her to travel to Sydney, where she secured a position at Vogue. It was during this time that a chance article about novelists under the age of thirty inspired her to finally take the leap and try her hand at writing a novel.

Her latest book, So I Met This Guy, is out now, and she will be embarking on a book tour in both the US and the UK Tickets Here!

Nothing pairs more with English sensibility than a cuppa tea, which Alex and I both enjoyed during our conversation across the pond!

In This Episode

Brontë Parsonage

Lizzy Bennett Diaries - web series

Me and Mr. Darcy by Alexandra Potter

Chawton House

Pride and Prejudice BBC

Pride and Prejudice (2005)

Bridget Jones Diary by Helen Fielding

Wuthering Heights Film by Emerald Fennell with Carrie Pruett

Sat, 21 Feb 2026 16:12:52 +0000

2 Years of Drinks in the Library gets a special episode!

Carrie Pruett, who did the DITL Wuthering Heights Book episode with me, and I discussed the Wuthering Heights Film by director Emerald Fennell, and it was so much fun! There are spoilers so please pause if you are waiting to see it (although the book came out in 1847 so you how mad can you be at spoilers?)

The perfect drink pairing with this book is a very dark and full bodied red wine (we tried Witching Hour Red Blend) and Raspberry Dark Chocolate (we tried Ghiridelli). This is the ONLY food drink pairing for this film, I fully expect this fact to be added to the film’s Wikipedia page!

Thank you so much to Carrie for recording with me, this was a lot of fun, who knows, maybe more film reviews are in DITL’s future!

Here are a few things Carrie mentioned in the episode:

Wuthering Heights (1939) - stars Laurence Olivier

Emily Bronte's Wuthering Heights (1992) - stars Ralph Fiennes and Juliette Binoche

Wuthering Heights (2011) - directed by Andrea Arnold (Allison Anders misquoted in episode).

The Once and Future Witches by Alix E. Harrow with Angie Hilliker Ph.D.

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 13:15:14 +0000

This week’s book is The Once and Future Witches by Alix E. Harrow, the story of three sisters in 1893: Juiper, Agnes and Beatrice who are hunted by forces who will not suffer a witch to vote, they must use their magic, their wits and alliances to find a way to survive. This led to such an interesting conversation about feminism, sisterhood, science, and lots of magic with this week’s guest: Angie Hilliker!

Angie Hilliker (Ph.D.) is an Associate Professor of Biology at the University of Richmond where she teaches undergraduates about the amazing molecular machines in our cells. She also has a research lab where she works with these budding scientists to understand how our cells regulate mRNA, the molecular recipes cells use to make proteins. She is always curious about something, whether it’s something in the lab, in a book, exploring a hobby (including playing the flute and making pottery), or exploring something with her husband and son. When she isn’t reading science papers for work, she likes to read fantasy, historical fiction and romance novels.

In this Episode

James River Writers

University of Richmond

The Sackler Family

The Poe Museum - Richmond

Ally McBeal

The Wayward Sisters:

Herbal, floral, lightly sweet, and aromatic — like walking through a moonlit herb garden. Contains three major flavor components to represent the three sisters in the novel.

Ingredients:

2 oz Hendrick’s Midsummer Solstice Gin (Represents the youngest, but the most intense sister, James Juniper)

1 oz Bénédictine (made from 27 herbs, roots, etc.; a collaboration between a wine merchant and a chemist; represents the oldest sister Beatrice Belladonna, a scholar)

1 tsp of chai tea simple syrup (represents the middle sister, Agnes Amaranth, hard worker, steady, sometimes maternal, like a bracing cup of tea)

2 dashes of orange bitters (there is a lot of bitterness between the sisters, balances the sweetness of the simple syrup)

Orange slice (so much better than lime… this is how G&T are often served in Scotland)

Tonic water

Instructions:

To make the simple syrup, heat 1 c. water, 1 c. sugar, and 6 chai tea bags over medium. Stirring occasionally until sugar is dissolved. Bring to a boil and then remove from heat and let cool. Remove tea bags and store syrup in the fridge.

Add the Gin, Bénédictine, and chai tea simple syrup to a shaker with ice. Shake well until chilled, about 15 seconds.

Strain into a glass with ice.

Add two dashes of orange bitters and squeeze in the juice from a slice of orange and drop the slice in the glass. Swirl or stir to mix.

• 5. Top with tonic water to your preferred level and enjoy!

Twilight by Stephanie Meyer with Burn Before Reading Podcast

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 08:30:29 +0000

Hi Librarian Nation! This week we are discussing Twilight by Stephenie Meyer, the now-ubiquitous tale of Bella Swan and the vampire who just can’t quit her, Edward Cullen. This story has, of course, been widely read and adapted into famous films, and I was so happy to discuss it with this week’s guests, Christina and Lelia from fellow Richmond book podcast Burn Before Reading!

I was on Burn Before Reading last week talking about being a librarian during the Fifty Shades of Grey craze, so please go check it out (heads up that Burn Before Reading is for mature audiences only!).

Burn Before Reading Podcast is where hosts Christina Kann and Lelia Hilton in an exploration of bad writing, cringey memories, and scandalous literary history. The cringe factor of literature is as ancient as writing itself, and Burn Before Reading is here to explore it all. Every week, Christina & Lelia delve into the story of a piece of writing, a writer, a movement, or a memory to unpack the people they used to be and appreciate how far they’ve come!

O-Positive Party Punch (from Slugs on the Refrigerator Blog)

Ingredients (per glass):

3 oz. cranberry juice

2 oz.pomegranate juice

3 oz.sparkling water

Squeeze of fresh orange

Instructions:

Fill a glass with ice.

Add cranberry and pomegranate juices.

Squeeze in orange and stir.

Top with sparkling water and a thin apple slice.

In this Episode

Vote for DITL in Style Weekly’s Best of Richmond 2026

Drinks in the Library Merch!

The Butterfly Effect

Me an Girls Film

This is the Sk in of a Killer, Bella!

The Byrd Theater

Books by Stephenie Meyer

Sinners Film

Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil by VE Schwab

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl with Matthew Stern

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 11:12:11 +0000

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl is a whimsical children’s novel about Charlie Bucket, a kind, poor boy who wins a once-in-a-lifetime tour of the mysterious Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory. Since so many know this story, Matthew and I were able to have a conversation about the book’s history and Dahl’s legacy, and about how art and our views of it change over time.

Matthew Stern is an award-winning public speaker and writer with over 40 years of professional experience. His works include the novels Amiga and The Remainders, as well as the best-selling public speaking book Mastering Table Topics. A lifelong resident of Southern California, he grew up in Reseda, graduated from California State University, Northridge, and now lives in Lake Forest. When he’s not rooting for the Dodgers and Rams, he enjoys exercising and spending time with his wife, adult children, and granddaughter. You can find him on social media platforms @MASwriter

Our drink this week is a Greek Cheek Beer, a favorite of Matthew’s from his home in California, and a reference to the gum-smacking habits of Violet Beauregaard. If you are in California definite check it out. For those of us outside of the Golden State, Sam Adams Chocolate Bock would have be a great pairing for this book.

In this Episode

Roald Dahl Revision Controversy

Wonka vs Wonka The problem with overly likable characters - Matthew Stern

Libby Lost and Found by Stephanie Booth with Kendall Concini-Moore

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 08:30:00 +0000

This week’s book is Libby Lost & Found, by Stephanie Booth, about Libby Weeks, the reclusive author of the hit fantasy series “The Falling Children”, who faces a crisis when she is diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's and struggles to complete her overdue manuscript. In desperation, she enlists the help of eleven-year-old superfan Peanut Bixton, who knows the series inside and out but has her own hidden troubles. As Libby grapples with her diagnosis, Peanut and her family work to protect and help her save herself and the series.

My guest this week is Kendall Concini-Moore. Kendall‘s greatest adventure began not on the page, but at home, as a mother. Her book Mom’s Cloud and the Beach Adventure was inspired by her own family and her struggles with depression, or her “cloud.” With empathy and playful hearts, her family encourages her to rest, reminding her that it’s okay to not be okay, because clouds don’t last forever. Complete with discussion questions and resources, this picture book gives children ages 4-8 the language to understand when someone they love is struggling, while celebrating that sometimes, simply being together is the most caring thing. You can find out more about her and her book on her website, https://cloudydaychronicles.org/, through her Substack where she shares resources: cloudydaychronicles.substack.com/ and on social media @cloudydaychronicles.

Kendall curated our drink this week: A Black Manhattan with a coffee twist, listen to the episode to learn how this was inspired by the book and what author Stephanie Booth thought Libby’s favorite drink would be!

Ingredients

2 oz rye whiskey (or bourbon if you want it softer)

1 oz Amaro

¼ oz coffee liqueur (just a pinch—enough to deepen, not dominate)

2-3 dashes orange bitters (optional but rounds it out)

Luxardo cherry or orange twist for garnish

Directions

Add rye (or bourbon), amaro, coffee liqueur, and bitters to a mixing glass.

Fill with ice and stir vigorously for 20–30 seconds until well chilled and slightly diluted.

Strain into a chilled coupe (for up) or an old-fashioned glass over a large ice cube (for on the rocks).

Garnish with a Luxardo cherry or a long orange twist.

In this episode

Every Heart a Doorway Episode

Tweetsie Railroad

Drop Dead Generous

A Doubters Almanac Episode

Her Fearful Symmetry by Audrey Niffenegger with Valerie Adachi

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 08:30:00 +0000

Her Fearful Symmetry by Audrey Niffenegger revolves around identical twins, Elspeth and Edie, who have a deep but complicated bond that is tested when Elspeth, a reclusive woman living in London, dies and leaves her apartment to her American nieces, Julia and Valentina. As the twins settle into Elspeth's home, they become entangled in the mysteries of her past and the supernatural presence that lingers in the apartment, particularly the ghost of Elspeth herself.

My guest this week is Valerie Adachi. Valerie is a self-proclaimed bookworm who even enjoyed reading cereal boxes 🥣as a kid, she reminisces over the tactile joy of spreading the New York Times 📰 across her kitchen table.

Adventure always seems to be around the corner for her, often appearing spontaneous but rooted in long-percolating ideas—like the decision to add a new puppy 🐶 to her already bustling pack, turning her quiet life topsy-turvy.

Beyond her love for dogs 🐕 , she thrives on live music, good food and drink shared with family and friends, and the thrill of knowing that adventure is always nearby, maybe we a cozy reading spot 📖

SPOILER ALERT! For the first episode ever, we do discuss the ending, so heads up if you plan to read the book. I do give you a heads up in the episode so you know when to stop, but if you have read it already or want to hear the ending, listen all the way through!

In This Episode

Mirror Twins

Highgate Cemetery

Earl Grey Hot Toddy

Ingredients:

1 cup water

1 Earl Grey tea bag

1-2 tablespoons honey (to taste)

1-2 ounces whiskey (such as bourbon or rye)

1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

Lemon slice (for garnish)

Cinnamon stick (optional, for garnish

Directions

1. Boil the water in a small saucepan or kettle.

2. Once boiling, remove from heat and add the Earl Grey tea bag. Steep for about 3-5 minutes, depending on your preference for strength.

3. Remove the tea bag and stir in the honey until fully dissolved.

4. Add the whiskey and freshly squeezed lemon juice to the tea mixture, stirring gently to combine.

5. Pour the hot toddy into a mug or heatproof glass.

6. Garnish with a lemon slice and a cinnamon stick, if desired.

7. Serve warm and enjoy your soothing hot toddy!

An Object of Beauty by Steve Martin with Amy Carleton, Ph D.

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 08:30:00 +0000

Our book this week is An Object of Beauty, a novel released in 2010 by Steve Martin, chronicles the journey of the driven and charming Lacey Yeager as she navigates the New York art scene. Starting as an intern at Sotheby's, Lacey ascends to become a prominent gallery owner, revealing her questionable methods and the fluctuating dynamics of the art market from the 1990s to the present. Narrated by her friend Daniel, the story delves into themes of art, collecting, ambition, and social ambition within the art world, all infused with Martin's characteristic wit and dry humor.

My guest this week is Amy Carleton, Ph D. She teaches in the Comparative Media Studies/Writing program at MIT and is the co-founder of Black Notes Project, a Charlotte, NC-based music festival and nonprofit, as well as the creator of Lecture Notes, a public humanities series (and now Substack!). Her research focuses on the behavioral economics of online communities and the intersection of race and digital culture. She is a recipient of the MIT Teaching With Digital Technology award, holds a graduate certificate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion from Cornell University, and was selected by the WikiEducation Foundation as a Wikipedia Black History Scholar. Find out more about Amy through her website TheAmyCarleton.com

Our Drink this week is La Marca Prosecco, which is a popular offering at art galleries and showings. So sip some along with us as we dive into the art world of the 90s and 2000s!

In this Episode

Ways of Seeing by John Berger

Born Standing Up by Steve Martin

Davidson college

Exit Through the Gift Shop Documentary

Isabella Stewart Garden Museum Theft

The Mint Museum

Boston Museum of Fine Arts

Bechtler Museum of Modern Art

Harvey B. Gantt Center

Institute of Contemporary Art

Your Brain on Art by Susan Magsamen and Ivy Ross

Novant Health Art Initiative

Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

The Story of Art Without Men by Katy Hessel

Unfinished: The Role of the Artist in the Age of Artificial Intelligence by Lucas Cantor Santiago

A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara

Random Family: Love, Drugs, Trouble, and Coming of Age in the Bronx by Adrian Nicole LeBlanc

Brookline Booksmith

RJ Julia Bookstore

Heartbeat by Terreece M. Clarke with Liz Bullard

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 14:00:00 +0000

Happy New Year Libration Nation! We are kicking off the year with Heartbeat by Terreece M. Clarke, a romance suspense novel in which Mike and Maya find love in the midst of danger and messiness. This is the first book in Clarke’s Courageous Love Series, and with excellent characters and diverse voices, it is a favorite of this week’s guest, Liz Bullard!

Liz Bullard is a multi-genre author, therapist, and coach known for her captivating storytelling and passion for helping creatives overcome obstacles. Her notable works include The Prophecy Series and the Lira Somers Mysteries—praised for fast-paced plots, vivid characters, and movie-like imagery. Liz’s love of reading and writing is evident in the eReads Podcast, where she celebrates the power of creativity and storytelling. When she’s not writing, coaching, or recording the podcast, she’s cooking, reading, or spending time with Preston the corgi.

Our drink this week is a Hibiscus French 75 Mocktail, using one of my favorite syrups Wild Hibiscus, which includes hibiscus flowers that make the cocktail match Heartbeat’s cover!

Ingredients

1 oz NA gin

.5 oz Wild Hibiscus syrup

.5 oz fresh lemon juice

NA Sparkling wine

Ice

Lemon twist or edible flower (for garnish)

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, wild hibiscus syrup, and fresh lemon juice.

2. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well for about 15-20 seconds until the mixture is chilled.

3. Place hibiscus flower from the syrup in a champagne flute.

4. Pour mixture from shaker into flute

5. Top it off: Gently top off the drink with your choice of chilled NA sparkling wine.

In this Episode

Terreece M. Clarke’s Website

James Patterson

Janet Evanovich

This is the Honey by Kwame Alexander with Nick George The Poet

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 08:30:00 +0000

Hello Libration Nation! This week I am joined by Nick George, a poet and educator, to discuss This Is The Honey an anthology of poems edited by Kwame Alexander. We talked about Nick’s journey with poetry, the significance of diverse voices in poetic anthologies, and the importance of seeing yourself reflected in stories. We read and analyze poems from the anthology, including works by Mahogany L. Brown and Jabari Asim. This is the last episode of 2025 as I’m taking a little break to relax and spend time with my family. Looking forward to some great episodes coming out in 2026!

Nicholas Steven George (or, Nick George the Poet) is a poet, educator, DJ and facilitator. He has performed at venues such as TedXCharlottesville, American Psychology Association Annual Convention, University of Lynchburg & Opera Roanoke. In performing his original work, he has opened for renowned poets like Jasmine Mans, Levi the Poet, Alysia Harris, Black Ice & Joshua Bennett. His work dwells at the intersection of culture, identity and spirituality. He has been writing, performing, and teaching for more than two decades. Nick’s award-winning work has been featured in a variety of industries and highlighted on platforms on the local and nationwide scale, ranging from private group facilitation and workshops, 1 on 1 coaching, and virtual/in-person performances. Find him on his website or on social media.

Moscow Mule

2 oz vodka

1 oz fresh lime juice

4 oz ginger beer

Fresh mint leaves (about 8-10)

Lime wedge (for garnish)

Ice

Copper mug (traditional)

In the bottom of a copper mug, add the fresh mint leaves. Gently muddle them with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their oils.

Fill the mug with ice cubes.

Pour the vodka and fresh lime juice over the ice.

Top off with ginger beer, stirring gently to combine all ingredients.

Garnish with a lime wedge and a sprig of fresh mint.

Enjoy your refreshing Moscow Mule!

In this Episode

Drinks in the Library Merch

Sonya Sanchez

Langston Hughes

Still I Rise by Maya Angelou

Amiri Baraka Black Art

The Gunslinger by Stephen King with Bill Blume

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 08:30:00 +0000

Hello libration nation! This week's book is The Gunslinger by Stephen King a dark twisted fantasy novel and the first book in King’s The Dark Tower series. It follows the journey of Roland Deschain, the last gunslinger, as he traverses a desolate and mysterious landscape in pursuit of the enigmatic Man in Black. The story blends elements of fantasy, horror, and Western, exploring themes of destiny, obsession, and the nature of good and evil, as Roland confronts both external foes and his own inner demons on his quest to reach the Dark Tower, the nexus of all universes.

Guest

Bill Blume was determined to be a writer from a young age, often taking the lead in crafting adventures during childhood games in South Carolina. After graduating from the University of South Carolina with a degree in Broadcast Journalism, he worked as a TV news producer before transitioning to a dispatcher role for Henrico County Police in 2001. In Richmond, he and his wife became active in the local writing community, contributing to James River Writers, where he served on the board and continues to engage with fellow writers and industry professionals.He is the author of several books, and has an upcoming novel, To Hell and Back coming out January 20th, 2026.

Our drink this week was a Dark & Stormy, the perfect dark and spicy drink to pair with an anti-hero like Roland Deschain.

In This Episode

Sh*tty First Draft - Anne Lamott

George Lucas Star Wars changes

Original Gunslinger vs. Revised Edition

Shiver by Maggie Steifvater

James River Writers

Books by Stephen King

Battle of the Planets Series

Malinda Lo Books

NK Jemison Books

Erin Bowman Books

West of Apocalypse by Bill Blume

Richmond SPCA

Richmond Animal League

Sarah Glenn Marsh

Kindred by Octavia Butler with Alethea McCollin

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 08:30:00 +0000

This week’s book is Kindred by Octavia Butler, a time-traveling story about Dana, who goes back in time to ensure the survival of her ancestors: an enslaved woman named Alice and her enslaver, Rufus. This complicated yet entrancing narrative is multifaceted, and my guest this week, Alethea McCollin, and I had a great conversation about the ways Butler challenges her readers to think about the implications of our actions and how they shape the future.

Alethea McCollin is a multifaceted artist as a playwright, director, producer, actor, and founder of Orange Stilettos Productions, llc, known for her award-winning production of The Stilettos Monologues at the Atlanta Black Theatre Festival. She has produced various works, including her play Renaming Shaim at Theatre Row, New York City, and directed her first short film, The Next Great Writer, showcased at the Virginia Screenwriters Forum. Additionally, Alethea serves as Executive Secretary on the Board of Directors of James River Writers and is an English instructor at Virginia State University.

Our drink this week is one of Alethea’s favorite’s: Blackberry Citrus Tea, which is perfect for sitting by the fire curling up with a good book!

In this Episode

Drinks in the Library Merch

Kindred by Octavia Butler

James River Writers

Virginia State University Books by Toni Morrison

Books by Gabrielle García Márquez

Books by Isabel Allende

Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglas, an American Slave by Frederick Douglas

The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store by James McBride

Animorphs by KA Applegate with Fiona Fenn (Redux)

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 08:30:00 +0000

Happy Thanksgiving! I’m taking the week to relax with family. Please enjoy the re-airing of this recording, which originally aired December 17, 2024.

Hello Libration Nation! This week we are discussing the classic series Animorphsby K.A. Applegate. Animorphs is a collection of 54 middle-grade books in which five young adults are gifted the power to morph into animals. It was a bit of a cult phenomenon when it was originally published in the late '90s and has recently seen a resurgence online.

My guest is Fiona Fenn. Fiona is an author of fantasy novels that put complicated “heroes” front and center. A fan of villains, redemption arcs, and intense explorations of healing in all its forms, her debut novel, The Crack at the Heart of Everything, is a love letter to every villain who wanted to do better but never got the chance.

I so enjoyed this conversation with Fiona, talking about the Animorphs series and her love for it, as well as her experience writing and publishing her first novel and everything that goes into this process.

Our drink this week is a Flying Saucer, as the Animorphs series begins with the kids meeting an alien who has flown to Earth

Flying Saucer Recipe (from Bevvy.com)

INGREDIENTS

1 oz Amaretto Di Saronno liqueur

1 oz Kahlua coffee liqueur

3 oz cream

3 oz ice

Combine in blender until smooth and creamy, serve with cinnamon stick for garnish!

In this Episode

Fiona Fenn’s Website

Buy The Crack at the Heart of Everything by Fiona Fenn

Michael Grant Gone series

Tiny Fox Press

Animorphs Aloud

Queer Liberation Library

KA Applegate Website

Free Animorphs PDFs

Fiona Fenn’s Substack

The Flatshare by Beth O’Leary with Ashley Jones

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 08:30:00 +0000

The Flatshare by Beth O’Leary is a charming romantic comedy about two strangers, Tiffy and Leon, who share a London flat but have never met, communicating only through notes. As they navigate their unconventional living arrangement, they gradually develop a deep connection that leads to unexpected romance.

My guest this week is the hilarious Ashley Jones, who dreams of owning a stationery store and recapping reality TV for a living (dream big), all while aiming to finally shoot a T-shirt gun, an ambition she’s pursued for over a decade. Ashley is one of my favorite people I follow on social media, and I hope you follow her there too! You can find Ashley on Instagram @AshleyJonesy, Threads @AshleyJonesy, on TikTok @ohashleyjonesy and NOW on her just launched substack Yap Time: The Newsletter you read before a nap.

I had such a great time chatting with Ashley, we share so many of the same passions (Bravo shows, Taylor Swift, Pop Culture in general) that we frequently got off topic and I had to cut a good portion of the show, which I will be calling “The Lost Episode”, which will not be released and will become part of the lore of the show until fans clamor for me to release it 10 years from now, a la “All Too Well” 10 minute version, which is a Taylor reference and I promise that’s the last one, at least for the podcast intro!

Together we delve into the plot of The Flatshare , focusing on the characters' humanity and the book's feel-good nature. Ashley reflects on how the book changed her perspective on reading for enjoyment. We also talked about the value of empathy, dealing with insecurities, and the joy of following passions, ending the conversation with a nod to Ashley’s love for Sonic's Coke Zero and styrofoam cups.

In This Episode

Kelce Bowl (Super Bowl LVII)

Not Gonna Lie (Kylie Kelce’s Podcast - my #1 rival!)

Orpheus by Sara Bareilles

Styrofoam cups outlawed in Virginia

Sonic Drive In

Beth O’Leary’s Website

Books by Beth O’Leary

Brett Goldstein

The Finlay Donovan Series by Elle Cosimano with Mair Downing

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 08:30:00 +0000

The Finlay Donovan series by Elle Cosimano follows a witty, overworked single mom and novelist who accidentally becomes entangled in real-life crime while trying to meet her writing deadlines. Blending humor, suspense, and heart, the series delivers a fast-paced mix of murder, motherhood, and unexpected friendship.

A little bit about this week's (returning) guest, Mair Downing.

Mair transitioned into real estate from a Fortune 200 company because she wanted a career where she could make a real difference in people’s lives. Whether working with buyers, sellers, or investors—helping clients right-size or find that perfect river getaway—she believes in the energy that comes from realizing goals are within reach. And with Mair’s guidance, they are.

FREE TIME

When Mair isn’t showing homes or preparing listings, she’s cheering on her teen daughters in their various activities—soccer, volleyball, and basketball—or snuggling with her Havanese, Odie (and, of course, her husband, too!). She loves to travel, enjoy great food, and soak in all that life has to offer. Check up her "What's Up Wednesday series on Instagram: @obsessedwithhomes

For quiet moments, she finds peace sitting on a dock, watching the water glimmer with a good book. Favorite right now: Black Phone by Joe Hill

Death by Chocolate Cocktail - we recorded this episode on Día De Los Muertos, also as the book titles and story contents often involve a little murder, we knew we needed a “deadly” cocktail!

Servings: 1

Ingredients

¾ oz vodka

¾ oz Bailey’s Irish Cream

¾ oz dark crème de cacao

¼ cup chocolate ice cream

½ cup ice

Chocolate shavings, for garnish

Instructions

Combine the vodka, Bailey’s, dark crème de cacao, chocolate ice cream, and ice in a blender.

Blend until smooth.

Pour into a chilled wine glass.

Garnish with chocolate shavings and enjoy!

In this Episode

DITL Merch is now out! Please considering one of these adorable items to support the show.

Barbara Streisand films Funny Girl and What’s Up Doc

Drawing Hands by MC Escher

Black Phone by Joe Hill

Brave New World by Aldous Huxley

Pushcart Prize

O. Henry Award

The Sound of a Wild Snail Eating by Elisabeth Tova Bailey with Ally Kirkpatrick

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 08:30:00 +0000

I’m so excited to share the audio from my very first live recording, held on October 28 at M.M.LaFleur Georgetown. I had the pleasure of interviewing Ally Kirkpatrick, owner of Old Town Books, about The Sound of a Wild Snail Eating a story that deeply influenced her decision to open her bookstore.

A huge thank you to M.M.LaFleur and their wonderful Georgetown staff for being so kind, supportive, and making this event possible, and to Ally for being such a generous guest and collaborator.

Since we recorded in an open space, I made a few audio adjustments to smooth out background noise. While it sounds crisp and clear overall, you might notice a few spots that move a bit quickly as I balanced the levels.

Book

The Sound of a Wild Snail Eating by Elisabeth Tova Bailey is a quiet, meditative memoir that finds wonder in the smallest details of life. As the bedridden author observes a snail living beside her, she discovers unexpected lessons about resilience, curiosity, and the beauty of slowing down.

Guest

Ally Kirkpatrick, an Alexandria native, founded Old Town Books in 2018 to create space for her love of reading, writing, and community. She also loves her family, shop dog Scout, and gardening. Ally’s current picks include happy-ending thrillers, journalist-written nonfiction, reimagined history, and beautiful gardening books. Recently her debut essay Gnawing was featured in Roxane Gays’s The Audacity, learn more about her writing at allykirkpatrick.com.

Drink

For our drink this week we had two options, the first was “The MM Spritz”, a white wine spritzer named in honor of our lovely host, MM LaFleur Georgetown. The second was a NA option, Herb & Orchid dealconized wine alternative, which was so tasty, and the connection to nature paired perfectly with the book.

In this Episode

Community Bookstore Brooklyn NY

Elisabeth Tova Bailey’s website - where you can listen to a snail eating

Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott - check out the DITL episode on this book!

The Governeses by Anne Serre

Gnawing by Ally Kirkpatrick on Roxane Gay’s The Audacity

Ally Kirkpatrick’s YouTube

The John Burroughs Medal

Fabled Ice Cream

These Truths by Jill Lepore

Books by Lindsey Chervinsky, presidential historian

You Never Forget Your First by Alexis Coe

Carrie by Stephen King with Nathan Buchholz

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 07:30:00 +0000

Carrie by Stephen King tells the story of a shy, bullied teenager who endures relentless cruelty at school and terrifying abuse at home from her fanatically religious mother. When Carrie discovers her telekinetic powers, years of repression and pain erupt in a devastating act of vengeance on prom night.

Guest

Nathan Lawrie-Buchholz is a special education teacher who loves books that make him afraid to turn off the lights. Nathan has frightened his friends and family with scary stories written in the margins of school notebooks since he was young. Profane Beasts is his debut novel. Nathan’s experience as a teacher inspires him to write about professionals who make a living separating their emotional needs from the people they serve. Nathan writes about the anxiety of walking that line between being professionally empathetic and dangerously involved that all social workers must navigate. Nathan lives in Henrico, Virginia with his wife Haley, their rescue pittie mix Ziti, and their internet famous cat Marston. He can be found searching independent bookstores for old paperbacks or investigating exciting places to eat in the Richmond area. You can find him on Instagram Goodreads or on his website

Our drink this week is a Bloody Mary, of course as a homage to the moment Carrie had enough. I use Zing Zang to make my Bloody Mary’s, to some this is a controversial choice, but I’m sorry, I know what I like!

Bloody Mary Recipe

3 parts Zing Zang® Bloody Mary Mix

1 part your favorite vodka

Directions

Pour over ice and stir

Add a squeeze of lime

Garnish with celery, olives, hot sauce, bacon, anything you like really!

In this Episode

Blair Witch Project Marketing Campaign

On Writing by Stephen King

All 4 Carrie Movies Ranked

Cuckoo by Gretchen Felker Martin

Books by Eric LaRocca

Books by T. Kingfisher

Bunny by Mona Awad

Fountain Bookstore in Richmond, Virginia

Whickerman Film

World War Z by Max Brooks

The Great Dismal Swamp

Cajun Queen Tour New Orleans

Abi’s Books and Brews

Required Listening with Gigi Howard

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 07:30:00 +0000

Hello, Libration Nation! This week, I'm doing something a bit different and sharing 15 books that I loved in 2025! This format is a departure from the regular show, but I wanted to highlight some personal favorites that haven't made it onto the show yet. If you want to give feedback on this or for future episodes, reach out to me at drinkspod@gmail.com.

This week’s drink is a fabulous rosé from none other than the Duchess of Sussex herself, Meghan Markle! I’ll also be sharing a tasting video on Instagram, so stay tuned!

No show notes this week—I really want you to listen to the episode in full, so I won’t be listing the books just yet. But don’t worry, I’ll share that list closer to the holiday season!

And if you haven’t registered yet, don’t miss my live event on Tuesday, October 28 at M.M.LaFleur Georgetown! I’ll be interviewing Ally Kirkpatrick, owner of Old Town Books, and it’s going to be a delightful and fun evening!

Date: Tuesday, October 28

Time: 6-8 PM

Location: M.M.LaFleur, 1344 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC

What to expect:

- Drinks & light bites before & after the recording

- Shop M.M.LaFleur’s cozy fall collection at 15% off

- Browse our in-store library curated by Old Town Books

RSVP & more details: https://luma.com/hbsnu98y

Enjoy the episode!

Surrender by Bono with Heidi K. Brown

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 07:30:00 +0000

In Surrender by Bono, the iconic frontman of U2, shares a deeply personal memoir that explores his life’s journey through music, activism, and spirituality. With candid reflections and heartfelt anecdotes, he invites readers into the experiences that shaped both his artistry and his commitment to making a difference in the world.

Heidi K. Brown is a former lawyer, a law professor, a writer, a novice boxer, a passionate U2 fan, a proud introvert, and a feisty solo traveler. She is the author of three books about well-being and healthy performance for law students, lawyers, and other members of the legal profession: The Introverted Lawyer,Untangling Fear in Lawyering, and The Flourishing Lawyer. Heidi is an internationally recognized public speaker on topics of self-empowerment, authenticity, and self-discovery. Heidi launched her debut travel memoir, The Map I Draw: A Memoir of Travel as a Passport to Self, in June 2025. You can find more at https://heidikristinbrown.com and her substack Heidiography.

Our drink this week is Irish Whiskey, specifically Writer’s Tears if you can get it! If you are in the United States you can order it through Reserve Bar.

In this Episode

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Joshua_Tree

Is U2 the longest running band on the planet?

Ali Hewson - Chernobyl International

The Creative Act by Rick Rubin

The Creative Habit by Twyla Tharp

Steven Pressfield Books

Heidi’s Keynote at University of Richmond Law School Graduation

Joshua Tree Bar Manhattan (sadly now closed!)

Solito by Javier Zamora with Donna McCarthy

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 07:30:00 +0000

In Solito, a memoir by poet Javier Zamora recounts his harrowing and heartfelt journey as a nine-year-old traveling alone from El Salvador to the United States to reunite with his parents. Through vivid detail and deep emotion, he captures the fear, hope, and resilience of migration through a child’s eyes.

Donna McCarthy is a retired high school special education teacher who’s been happily retired for seven years. She volunteers as a Friend of the Newburgh Free Library and leads a book club for fellow retired teachers. Donna loves spending time with her grandson, she’s a proud bi-coastal grandma often traveling to visit him in California from her home in New York, and she never passes up a chance to travel, whether it’s exploring somewhere new in the U.S. or heading abroad. Also, she is my aunt!

Our drink this week is Horchata, a drink well known in Central America and one that Javier drinks in the book. A classic rice drink, I linked below a recipe from El Salvador, but you can also try it by using this mix or purchasing one at your local Pollo Campero!

Horchata Salvadoreña

4oz morro seed

2oz peanuts

2 oz de sesame seeds

1 tbsp of coaca powder

1 oz pumpkin seed

1 oz cinammon

1/4 tbsp Vanilla or to taste

2 oz dried corn

2 oz rice

Sugar to taste

1 - 1 1/2 gallons of Water - this can be subbed with any milk you'd like or split.

In this Episode

American Dirt by Jeanne Cummins

Salvadorean Civil War

Coyote (Colloquial for human smuggler)

Javier Zamora’s Website

Second Attempt Crossing Poem

Unaccompanied by Javier Zamora

Red White and Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston with Katharine Herndon

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 07:30:00 +0000

Welcome back to Drinks in the Library! Today, we're exploring the delightful and charming world of Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston. This romantic comedy takes us on a whirlwind journey through love, politics, and the complexities of identity as we follow the unexpected romance between Alex Claremont-Diaz, the First Son of the United States, and Prince Henry of Wales.

My guest this week is Katharine Herndon, who lives in Richmond, Virginia, with her husband, two boys, and a hound dog named Lola. She used to teach (English, of course), but the homework got to her, so she decided to take up nonprofit work instead (insert laughter). Currently the Executive Director of James River Writers, she is an enthusiastic advocate for the RVA literary community and can be found at nearly all JRW events. In her free time she kills plants, burns things more than she cooks, knits very sporadically, and is still looking for some form of tolerable exercise.

Our drink this week was a nod to our friends across the pond:

The New G&T (Gin and Earl Grey Tea)

2 ounce Earl Grey Tea

2 ounce Gin

1 ounce Maple Syrup

3/4 ounce Lemon Juice

Fresh Mint or Dried Rose Petals for garnish, optional

In a rocks glass add ice and set aside. In your cocktail shaker, combine all ingredients, except for the garnish. Fill the shaker with ice and put the cap on. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds, or until the shaker is extremely cold.

Strain cocktail into your prepared rocks glass and garnish with mint or rose petals, if using. Serve immediately.

In This Episode

The Buffalo Hunter Hunter by Stephen Graham Jones

In A Jam by Kate Canterbury

American Royals by Catherine McGee

Red White and Royal Blue Film

Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden

The Horse Whisperer Film

Are You There God? It’s Me Margaret Film

Jim Dale Actor & Audiobook Narrator

I Kissed Shara Wheelerby Casey McQuiston

The Goblin Emperor by Katherine Addison

James River Writers Thursday Night Writes

Catwings by Ursula K. Le Guin with Dr. Julia Skinner

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 15:04:50 +0000

Hello Libration Nation! Our book this week is Catwings a whimsical and heartwarming tale by beloved author Ursula K. Le Guin. The story follows four ordinary kittens born with an extraordinary gift—they have wings. As they set out to find a safe place in the world, the kittens discover both the beauty and challenges of being different. With gentle language and charming illustrations, Catwings is a modern classic that captures the magic of imagination, the courage of leaving home, and the comfort of finding where you belong.

My guest this week is the amazing Dr. Julia Skinner, she is a food writer whose work includes the award-winning book Our Fermented Lives. She is the founder of The Culinary Curiosity School, and also runs Root, a food-focused community and consulting organization offering classes, consulting on creative projects, a weekly newsletter, and more. She's also the founder of Roots and Branches, where she coaches other writers to help them find their voice and share their most important work with the world.

She is also a nature lover, a teacher, and a traveler who firmly believes in finding, and sharing, the magic of everyday life. She has a PhD in Library & Information Science, and lives between Atlanta, GA and Cork, Ireland.

As a special treat for Libration Nation: use the code DRINKSPOD to for 30% off anything at both The Culinary Curiosity School and Roots and Branches (Thank you Julia!)

You can follow her work in her newsletter, or find her on social:

@bookishjulia (writing)

@rootkitchens (food)

@yourrootsandbranches (coaching)

@culinary.curiosity.school (culinary courses)

For our drink we have two options:

Simple Cat Lovers' Cocktail

This is basically a Kentucky mule, with an added herbal garnish and/or herbal syrup (depending on your preference) in place of lime.

Stir together 1 - 1 1/2 c ginger beer to 1 shot bourbon

Add herbal syrup (below) to taste (optional)

Garnish with fresh lemon balm, basil, or mint: lightly crush or roll before adding to the cocktail for maximum flavor

Herbal syrup (makes about 1 quart): Combine 2 c sugar to 2 c water with a pinch of salt in a medium saucepan. Add 1-2 c packed fresh herbs, depending how strong you'd like it (like basil, mint, lemon balm, or mountain mint). Simmer on M/L for 10-15 minutes or until aromatic and flavorful. Cool and store in the fridge in an airtight container.

Catwings Cocktail (tailor made by Julia!)

This cocktail has a few steps, but I promise they're worth it: And you can batch out the syrup and tea by doubling or tripling the recipe to make these for a group or to keep the ingredients on hand in the fridge (where they'll last a week). The tea can be nice on its own, and any leftover syrup is perfect for adding to coffee or other beverages or drizzling on desserts.

For a non-alcoholic version, swap in your favorite NA gin, or try this sea buckthorn-based NA spirit.

Makes 4 cocktails

For the herbal tea:

(Note: you may not have all these dried herbs available. If not, just use 1/4-1/2 tsp catnip and 1 tsp chamomile. Or, just a chamomile tea bag).

· 1/4 tsp dried catnip

· 1/4 tsp dried chamomile flower

· 1/4 tsp Angelica root

· 1/4 tsp elecampene

Steep the herbs in 3/4 c hot water for 10-12 minutes. Strain and cool completely.

For the lemon balm syrup:

(Note: You can play with other herbs you like here too, catnip, mountain mint, and/or basil might be fun choices depending on your tastes and what’s available).

· 1 packed cup fresh lemon balm leaves

· 1/2 tsp apple cider vinegar

· 2/3 c water

· pinch salt

· 1 c sugar

Heat all ingredients together over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until fragrant and flavorful.

Remove from heat, then cool completely and strain.

For the cocktail

· Divide the herbal tea across 4 rocks glasses (add ice, if desired)

· Add 1 shot gin to each glass

· Add 1 shot of syrup to each glass and stir

· Top with sparkling wine or soda water to taste.

· Garnish with fresh lemon balm, if desired.

In this Episode

Steering the Craft by Ursula Le Guin

Tress of the Emerald Sea by Brandon Sanderson with Gigi Howard

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 07:30:00 +0000

Welcome back Libration Nation! Today, I’m excited to share one of my recent favorites: Tress of the Emerald Sea by Brandon Sanderson. This delightful tale is a blend of humor, adventure, and sweetness, following a young woman on a perilous quest to save the man she loves. As we embrace the cozy vibes of autumn, I thought it was the perfect time to dive into this enchanting fantasy.

Joining me today is my husband, Bill, making his fourth appearance on Drinks in the Library. As always, we have a great time riffing and cracking each other up!

Tress loves a salty tea, so I wanted to go with a salty drink and went with a Salted Caramel Coffee Martini, for a non-alcoholic option a Salted Caramel Latte would be perfect!

Salted Caramel Coffee Martini

1 oz Bailey's Salted Caramel Cream

1.5 oz. Vanilla Vodka

1-2 oz. Coffee or Espresso

Ice

Whipped Cream, Salt, or caramel syrup (optional)

Pour Bailey's, vodka, and coffee into a shaker over ice. Shake and pour into chilled martini glass

• 2. Garnish with cream, salt, and chocolate syrup and enjoy!

NA Option - A cold Brew Salted Caramel Latte would be perfect!

In this Episode

Mistborn Episode

Brandon Sanderson - The Economics of Books and Entertainment

The Princess Bride Film

The Princess Bride by William Goldman

Reese Witherspoon Woman of the Year Speech

Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy Gin & Tonics

Tress of the Emerald Sea Premium Hardcover

The Substance Film

Brandon Sanderson Kickstarter

Books by T. Kingfisher

The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh with Mary Green

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 07:30:00 +0000

The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh tells the poignant story of Victoria Jones, a young woman who uses the Victorian tradition of flower symbolism to communicate her emotions and navigate her troubled past. As she learns to reconcile her experiences through the meanings of various flowers, she embarks on a journey of healing and self-discovery that intertwines love, loss, and the power of community and relationships.

My guest this week is Mary Green, a florist, wife, dog-mom, plant lover, and also my next door neighbor. Mary loves live music, spending time with friends and family, and books with dark twists and turns. She is a florist at Strawberry Fields Flowers & Finds, where she is able to share her horticulture knowledge and passion for all things plants!

Hibiscus Paloma Mocktail

1 grapefruit wedge

½ oz fresh lime juice

3 oz NA tequila (I used Ritual Tequila)

¼ cup club soda

1 tsp Hibiscus Simple Syrup (I used Wild Hibiscus, found at Total Wine)

2 oz fresh grapefruit juice

kosher salt for garnish

Directions

Pour kosher salt on a small plate. Rub the rim of a highball glass with a grapefruit and dip the rim of glass in salt.

In a glass, combine grapefruit juice, lime juice, and hibiscus simple syrup. Stir in tequila, add ice, and top with club soda. Garnish.

In This Episode

The Complete Language of FlowersbyS. Theresa Dietz

.5 Bottle Shop

The Murderbot Diaries by Martha Wells with Hayley DeRoche

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 11:14:55 +0000

Hello Libration Nation! This week, we are diving into the captivating world of "The Murderbot Diaries," a remarkable series by Martha Wells. Follow the journey of an anxious, self-aware rogue security android, known as Murderbot, as it navigates a galaxy filled with humans and complex emotions.

My guest this week is Hayley DeRoche, also known as SadBeige, They are a public librarian, activist and meme creator, known for being the content creator behind the "Werner Herzog's sad beige clothes for sad beige children" series. Her funny memes and sarcastic reels have garnered a following of 450,000 on Instagram, where she goes by the handle @officialsadbeige. You can also follow their substack Weird, But Okay. Their book A Field Guide for Sad Beige Parents will be coming out Spring 2026.

Hayley has a collection of shirts and sweatshirts that are so cute and funny AND support public libraries - check them out! Also, 20% of the proceeds from sales of this collection go to support the Women’s Prison Book Project, which supports incarcerated Women, Trans, and Non-Binary people in the U.S. - because everyone deserves the right to read books they enjoy.

Sanctuary Moon Cocktail

2 oz. Herbal Gin (St George’s Terroir)

0.5 oz Lemon Juice

0.5 oz Simple Syrup

4 oz Soda Water

Lemon for garnish (optional)

Pour gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup into a shaker over ice. Shake and pour into highball glass over ice

Add soda water and mix gently with a spoon.

Garnish with lemon and enjoy!

In this Episode

The Murderbot Diaries by Martha Wells

Far From the Tree by Andrew Solomon

Five Laws of Library Science by SR Ranganathan

Murderbot TV Show on Apple

Grizzly Man Documentary by Werner Herzog

Weird, But Okay - Hayley’s Substack

Women’s Prison Book Project

Fantomina by Eliza Haywood with Samantha DeShazo

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 07:30:00 +0000

We are going back in time and discussing Amatory Fiction in the 18th century novel Fantomina by Eliza Haywood. This incredible story explores the complexities of identity and desire through the story of a young woman who adopts multiple personas to navigate the intricacies of romantic entanglements in 18th-century society. This provocative tale delves into themes of gender, autonomy, and the hidden depths of passion, highlighting the lengths one will go to in pursuit of love and self-discovery.

Samantha DeShazo was born and raised in Richmond, Virginia. She earned her MA in English at Virginia Commonwealth University in 2022, where she studied literature of the long eighteenth century. She is an educator who currently works with first year college students. When she's not working, she can be found with her nose in a book or pampering her beloved dog, Henry.

Our drink this week was courtesy of Samantha, it is a Creme Earl Grey Black Tea fromThe Spice & Tea Exchange of Richmond. It is absolutely delicious, smells like Fruity Pebbles, and would definitely have been all the rage in Fanomina’s time

In this Episode

Fantomina by Eliza Haywood

The Spice & Tea Exchange of Richmond

Toni Morrison

Frankstein by Mary Shelley

The Law of Coverture

Didn’t Read It Podcast Fantomina Episode

Amatory Fiction

Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen

Pamela by Samuel Richardson

Love in Excess by Eliza Haywood

Betsy Thoughtless by Eliza Haywood

Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll with ELizabeth Wiley

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 10:41:24 +0000

We are going down the rabbit hole this week folks! Join us as we dive into the whimsical world of Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, a timeless tale that explores the boundaries of imagination and reality. We’ll unravel the quirky characters, enchanting landscapes, and profound themes that have captivated readers for generations.

My guest this week is Elizabeth Wiley, an award-winning audiobook narrator with a decade of experience in genres like Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction, and Biography. Originally from Minnesota and now based in Williamsburg, Virginia, she records in her home studio. Elizabeth enjoys discussions on the intersection of arts and sciences with her NASA engineer partner. Her interests include sailing, skiing, yoga, and nature spirituality, along with a fondness for Birkenstocks and Hygge.

The Queen of Hearts Special Cocktail

2 oz Vanilla Vodka

3 oz TJ’s To the Power of 7 Red juice

Chocolate Covered Cherries

Shake with ice and strain into a martini glass. Garnish with chocolate covered cherries and enjoy!

In this Episode

Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll

Too Old for This by Samantha Downing (Liz’s latest narration!)

Red, Wine and Blue Virginia

LM Elliott’s website

My interview with LM Elliott

Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland narrated by Christopher Plummer

Go Ask Alice (film)

White Rabbit (Go Ask Alice) - song by Jefferson Airplane

The Phantom Tollbooth by Norman Juster

John Tenniel’s Alice in Wonderland illustrations

Richmond SPCA Critter Camp

The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe with Erin Surber (REdux)

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 07:30:00 +0000

It’s Christmas in July! This week we are visiting the world of Narnia, where it is always Winter but never Christmas, at least until the Pevensie children get involved. This week’s guest is Erin Surber, Erin is an avid reader and an enthusiastic library patron. She has four children ages spanning 18 months to 9 years old. Erin has worked in the video production industry for 14 years and now hold the position of Head of Production for a Richmond-based production company. She loves being outside, hiking, running (slowly), and kayaking. Also very into cooking, traveling, and all things dark chocolate!

Our cocktail is staying on the Christmas theme with a Narnia 75, which I found on the FoodNetwork UK’s Christmas recipe page!

Narnia 75 Cocktail

25ml gin

1 tsp white sugar

10ml lime juice

100ml Champagne

In this Episode

Friendship of CS Lewis and JRR Tolkien

Worthdays - Richmond area non-profit to support those impacted by the foster care system

The Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest by Aubrey Hartman with Angie Zhao

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 10:16:23 +0000

Hello Libration Nation! This week we are discussing The Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest by Aubrey Hartman. This newly released middle-grade book features Clare, an undead fox who ushers wandering animal souls to the afterlife realms of peace, pleasure, progress, and pain in the perpetual autumn setting of Deadwood Forest. Clare lives a solitary life, meticulously tending to his mushroom garden and enjoying his tree sap tea, until a badger named Gingersnipes arrives and disrupts his routine.

My guest this week is Angie Zhao. Born and raised in Richmond, Angie was a VCU English major and has spent the past four years working as an Events and Marketing Manager at a children's bookstore in Richmond. When she's not planning author events and school visits, she loves visible mending, making jewelry for her friends, trail running, and, of course, getting lost in a good story. A lover of books for both children and adults, Angie is drawn to clever, form-bending tales and writing that finds magic in the mundane.

Clare’s favorite drink is his tree sap tea; we created this using black tea, maple syrup, and peaches since we recorded in the summer. Feel free to add bourbon if you like, and enjoy it hot or cold year-round as you imagine yourself cozying up in Deadwood Forest!

Maple Peach Tea Sipper

2 oz. Bourbon (optional)

4 oz. Fresh-Brewed Black Tea

0.75 oz Maple Syrup

1/8th of Fresh Peach (softened works best)

Fresh Mint (optional)

Mudldle fresh peach, add bourbon, maple syrup, and ice. Shake.

Strain into glass with ice and top with fresh-brewed tea.

Garnish with with mint and peach slices, enjoy!

In this Episode

Vanishing World by Sayaka Murata

Marcin Minor Illustrator

Marisa Calin Audiobook Narrator

The Lion of Lark Hayes Manor by Aubrey Hartman

The Book of Joy by Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu

TJ Clune Books

Katherine Applegate Books

Reading in the Middle Podcast

Here For it by R. Eric Thomas with Izzie Call

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 09:29:34 +0000

If you have listened to the podcast for awhile, you have probably heard me reference the book Here For it: Or, How To Save Your Soul in America by R. Eric Thomas. It is a favorite of mine and had a big impact on me when I read it the first time in June of 2020, so I was SO excited when my friend and returning guest Izzie Call read it, loved it as well, and wanted to come on and talk about it with me. In the episode I referenced the review I wrote about it at the time, but then I never read the review so here it is: Eric Thomas grew up thinking he was a normal kid until others made him feel that he wasn’t. Black, gay, and Christian, these essays reflect upon his experience of never fitting in, being discriminated against, and his hopeful journey to find his place in a country that he loves. Thomas’ conversational writing style draws the reader in, and his ability to add humor to heartbreaking moments truly make these stories come to life. In a time when we can all use to learn more about other’s experiences, this book was enlightening and truthful, with jokes that landed like Kerri Strug in the ‘96 Olympics.

My guest this week is the always delightful Izzie Call. Izzie works as a museum educator for the VMFA coordinating projects related to the permanent collections and special exhibition displays including digital components, labels, and web

resources. Izzie is a lifelong, passionate educator and feels most at home speaking about art with those who have an interest in learning.

Also, thank you to Eric Thomas for sharing his favorite drink with me when in a moment of bravado (delusion?) I reached out to him on IG. It is a Cosmopolitan and he said he is bringing it back as a recession indicator!

Cosmo Recipe

1 oz cranberry juice

0.5 oz fresh-squeezed lime juice

1 oz triple sec (I use Cointreau)

1.5-2 oz vodka

Shake hard with ice, pour into martini glass, garnish with orange or lime, and enjoy!

In this Episode

Books by R. Eric Thomas

Website - R.Eric Thomas

Eric’s Newsletter - Check It Out!

Cosmos TV Show

Ali Hazelwood Hunger Games Drama

Frida Kahlo VMFA Exhibit (on view through 9/28/25)

Have a Beautiful, Terrible Day! By Kate Bowler With Lisa Varga REDUX

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 07:30:00 +0000

Please enjoy the re-airing of this episode which was originally released July 9, 2024.

There is no getting around this: I was THRILLED when Lisa agreed to come on the podcast. Lisa is the Executive Director of the Virginia Library Association, immediate past chair of the Virginia Beach Public Library Board, and a member of the ALA Policy Corps focusing on Unite Against Book Bans. She also was named the LIBRARIAN OF THE YEAR 2024 by Library Journal, an award she won because of her advocacy in the fight against book bans. Lisa is a hero of mine, and I am also very grateful to call her my friend.

Our book this week is Have a Beautiful, Terrible Day!: Daily Meditations for the Ups, Downs & In-Betweens by Kate Bowler. Lisa lives in Virginia Beach and we recorded at the beautiful OceanFront Marriott in Virginia Beach. I want to thank the staff of the Marriott for letting us record in their executive suite overlooking the ocean. Our drink this week is one Lisa recommends for a beach day, a Ruby Red Grapefruit Crush!

Ruby Red Grapefruit Crush Ingredients

4 oz (½ cup) grapefruit juice

1 oz (2 tablespoons) vodka

½ oz (1 tablespoon) triple sec (orange liqueur)

2 oz (¼ cup) lemon-lime soda or club soda

In This Episode

Unite Against Book Bans - https://uniteagainstbookbans.org/

Virginia Library Association - https://www.vla.org/

Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin

Virginia Society of Association Executives

Everything Happens - Kate Bowler’s podcast

Gigi’s Episode on Anne Lamott’s Bird by Bird

Rob Delaney’s Episode of Everything Happens

Catastrophe TV Show

Terrible, Thanks for Asking Podcast

The Hot Young Widows Club by Nora McInerny

Gingko Season by Naomi Xu Elegant

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 10:43:56 +0000

This is such a special episode because, for the first time ever, I’m interviewing an author about their book, because it’s one of my favorite books! Gingko Season by Naomi Xu Elegant is a story about a young woman, Penelope Lin, who is moving through the world after her first big heartbreak and discovering herself while on the cusp between young adulthood and adulthood. The depiction of this time of life is just one of the things I loved about this book, and I was thrilled to be able to discuss it with Naomi!

Naomi Xu Elegant is a freelance journalist and the author of the novel Gingko Season. She lives in New York. Naomi’s writing has appeared in Monocle, Fortune, Atlas Obscura, Nikkei Asia, The Drift, and elsewhere. She is co-editor of Gully, an independent literary magazine, and she writes a monthly Substack called Luanqibazao.

I would love for you to read Gingko Season, check out this review from the New York Times!

Our drink this week is a Lychee Martini, which is featured in the book. As I found out during our discussion, including these martinis was an Easter egg for Naomi’s mom, because they’re her favorite cocktail. I asked if she’d be willing to share the recipe with us as a special addition to the episode, and she did! She said the secret is to blend whole lychees and lychee juice together, then strain the mixture through a sieve to get that lovely, milky color.

Lychee Martini Recipe

2 oz. vodka

2 oz. lychee juice

Shake in a cocktail shaker over ice.

Serve neat in a cocktail glass.

Garnish with a whole lychee (optional)

Naomi’s mom’s tip: Blend whole lychees with lychee juice (both canned), then strain through a sieve to get your juice. The blended fruit gives it that lovely, clouded look.

You can also add a bit of citrus or a dash of dry vermouth—lychee martinis are meant for everyone!

In This Episode

Garden State Film

Friday I’m In Love - Phoebe Bridgers Cover

Napoleon Film

Foot Binding History

Middlemarch by George Eliot

In Search of Lost Time by Marcel Proust

Kazou Ishiguro

Sally Rooney

Elena Ferrante

A Feather on the Breath of God by Sigrid Nunez

The Sympathizer by Viet Thanh Nguyen

The Candy House by Jennifer Egan

Naomi’s Substack

Anne of Green Gables By LM Montgomery with Deanna Firehair Redux

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 07:30:00 +0000

Note: This episode was originally published April 2, 2024, I’ll be back with new content next week, enjoy!

Did you read the Anne of Green Gables series as a young girl and then walk through the woods pretending to be Anne and Diana? Yes? So did I and so did my friend Deanna!

Talking with Deanna about this book was so much fun, celebrating Anne and the cultural impact this story has had. A famous Anne quote is: “I'm so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers”. Well, I’m so glad I live in a world where there is an Anne of Green Gables.

Spoiler alert (Not really this is an iconic scene at this point): In the first book Anne accidentally gets her bestie Diana drunk on current wine, which she believes is raspberry cordial. Current wine apparently takes months, so we decided to make Raspberry Cordial Mules, which can be enjoyed with or without alcohol by making it with zero-proof vodka. I got the recipe from this lovely website and made the cordial myself in less than an hour!

Raspberry Cordial Mule

12 oz. Frozen Raspberries

3 cups Water

¾ cup Sugar

2 tsp. Lime Juice plus more for cocktails

Vodka

Ginger Beer

Fresh Raspberries (for garnish)

In this episode:

Deanna’s Instagram

Anne of Green Gables 2 part special (Megan Fellows version is cannon)

LM Montgomery

Dinner for Vampires by Bethany Joy Lenz with Magan Vernon

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 07:30:00 +0000

Dinner for Vampires by Bethany Joy Lenz is a memoir about her decade-long entrapment in a manipulative Christian cult during her time on One Tree Hill. The book details how the group controlled her life, career, and finances—until motherhood and the support of friends gave her the strength to break free.

My guest this week is the lovely Magan Vernon, an author who has been living off reader tears since she wrote her first short story in 2004. She now spends her time killing off fictional characters, pretending to plot while she really just watches Netflix, and she tries to do this all while her kids run amok around her Texas ranch. Subscribe to her Newsletter and join her Facebook Fan Group here: Magan’s Minions (Reader Group)

Strawberry Champagne Margarita

fresh strawberries, trimmed

2 oz. tequila

1 oz. fresh lime juice

.25 cups sparkling wine

Optional: 4 oz. triple sec or 2 tablespoons agave syrup, for a sweeter margarita

Place strawberries in a large glass. Using a muddler, muddle the strawberries until they resemble puree.

Add tequila, lime juice, and strawberry puree to a cocktail shaker. Add ice and shake. If you would like to add a sweetener to the cocktail, add triple sec or agave syrup to the cocktail shaker as well.

Fill cocktail glass or champagne flute halfway full with ice. Top with sparkling wine and garnish with a strawberry or lime.

In this Episode

Dinner for Vampires by Bethany Joy Lenz

One Tree Hill

Tex Watson

The White Lotus Cocktail Book

Specs

Paris, The Memoir by Paris Hilton

Magan’s Library’s Reading Challenge (that I am totally stealing!)

Garlic and Sapphires by Ruth Reichl with Mandy Naglich

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 07:30:00 +0000

The song “Welcome to New York” has been in my head all week preparing for this episode on the book Garlic and Sapphires: The Secret Life of a Critic in Disguise, a witty and revealing memoir by renowned food critic Ruth Reichl. During her time as The New York Times restaurant critic, Reichl went undercover in elaborate disguises to avoid preferential treatment and uncover the truth about New York’s dining scene. Blending memoir, food writing, and restaurant reviews, the book offers delicious behind-the-scenes stories, vivid character sketches, and reflections on identity, privilege, and the power of perception, all served under the iconic Manhattan skyline.

The amazing person who came to me with this book is Mandy Naglich, an author, journalist, and certified taster. She travels the world to report stories on food and drink culture for a variety of outlets as well as her own personal platform, Drinks with Mandy. Her award-winning book, How to Taste, takes readers on a journey into their senses and introduces them to the quirky characters in the world of professional tasting along the way.

Cosmo Recipe (Mandy’s Version)

0.5 oz cranberry juice

0.5 oz pomegranate juice (the stuff you find in the refrigerated section is best!)

0.5 oz fresh-squeezed lime juice

1 oz triple sec (I use Cointreau)

1.5-2 oz vodka

Shake hard with ice, pour into martini glass, don’t over-strain so you can enjoy the ice-chips, garnish with orange, and enjoy!

In This Episode

Mandy’s Linktree (Instagram, TikTok, Writing, and more!)

Ruth Reichl’s Substack

National Homebrew Competition Mandy won this in 2016

Cicerone Beer Certification

How to Taste - Mandy’s Book

Cork Dork

Drinks with Mandy

The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari by Robin Sharma with Dr. Meghan Waldron

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 09:59:24 +0000

In The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari, Robin Sharma tells the story of a high-powered lawyer who trades his fast-paced life for spiritual enlightenment in the Himalayas. This modern fable blends personal development with timeless wisdom, offering a roadmap to finding purpose, balance, and joy.

Today’s guest, Dr. Meghan Waldron, is a lifelong dreamer, writer, and educator who believes every student has a story to tell. With nearly two decades in K–12 and now in higher ed, she helps students find confidence and joy in writing through reflection, creativity, and honest feedback. Meghan is also a professional writer and recently earned her EdD in Educational Leadership from VCU. When she’s not teaching or writing, she’s out adventuring with her sons.

Our drink this week is the Fountain of Youth. The book talks extensively about the “Fountain of Life,” which is essentially water—and as a proud water drinker, I say stay hydrated, friends! But for our more adventurous summer days, this cocktail—with its bright notes of lemon and elderflower—is a perfect treat. Cheers!

Fountain of Youth Cocktail (from Rebecca Creek Distillery)

2 oz Vodka

¾ oz Elderflower Liqueur

¾ oz fresh lemon juice

2 sprigs of mint leaves

2 oz Prosecco

Add Vodka along with Elderflower Liqueur and Lemon juice together in a cocktail shaker filled with ice.

Shake vigorously for a few seconds and then strain into a rocks glass filled with ice

Top off with Prosecco.

Garnish with the two sprigs of mint leaves.

In this Episode

https://www.smartsolutionsva.com/ - Meghan’s Tutoring Company

The 5 AM Club by Robin Sharma

The Camino

The Way Film

The Alchemist by Paula Coelho

Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel with Dave Valeza

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 07:30:00 +0000

This week, we're diving into Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel—a hauntingly beautiful novel that blends post-apocalyptic survival with the enduring power of art, memory, and human connection. Set in the aftermath of a devastating pandemic, the story weaves together multiple timelines and characters, from a Shakespearean theater troupe traveling the ruins of North America to the lives they left behind.

Our guest is Dave Valeza, who grew up in Covina, California, after emigrating with his family from Manila, Philippines. Pursuing his love of drawing, Dave earned a bachelor’s degree in illustration and a master’s in sequential art. A passionate visual storyteller, he especially loves drawing people, fashion, and technology. In his spare time, Dave enjoys cooking, reading, and sketching in Savannah, Georgia - where he lives with his husband and family. Find out more about Dave and his work at davevaleza.com.

Our drink this week fits right into a dystopian world. It’s a simple Mimosa—cocktail or mocktail style—made with sparkling wine or ginger beer/ginger ale. But here’s the twist: you must drink it out of a random old cup you found lying around. That’s the full Station Eleven experience—elegance in the ruins. Cheers!

In this Episode

Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel

Four Eyes: A Graphic Novel by Rex Ogle (Author) Dave Valeza (Illustrator)

Pizza Face: A Graphic Novel by Rex Ogle (Author) Dave Valeza (Illustrator)

Blubber by Judy Blume

Forever by Judy Blume

Summer Sisters by Judy Blume

Reading with Pride: A Queer Lit Celebration with Rachel Yorkshire

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 07:40:00 +0000

Happy Pride Month Libration Nation! This week’s episode is so special and fun, with returning guest Rachel Yorkshire! Rachel is bringing us a wealth of books with LGBTQ stories by queer authors that she loves. We also enjoyed Iced Coffees, which as Rachel says, is the gayest of all drinks!

Rachel lives in Richmond with her wife Marissa and their very spoiled dog. She and her wife both post their bookish endeavors and reviews over on their bookstagram lesbereaders, and they would love for you to give them a follow. If she’s not reading, Rachel is probably daydreaming, laughing with friends, or bothering her dog.

The first Pride March in New York City was held on June 28, 1970, on the one year anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising. This month, I encourage you to read stories that celebrate the LGBTQ community, and the contributions they have made toward our society. There is a lot of hate being directed towards this community right now, and I encourage all of us to stand with them, show support and solidarity.

In This Episode

Rachel’s previous DITL Episode - Carry On by Rainbow Rowell

LesBeReaders (Rachel and her Wife’s Bookstagram)

Quietly Hostile by Samantha Irby

Vampires Never Get Old by Natalie C. Parker & Zoraida Córdova (for fans of Vampire Stories)

Bad Gays: A Homosexual History by Ben Miller & Huw Lemmey (for History Nerds)

Fun Home by Alison Bechdel (for people who love Graphic Novels)

The Bechdel Test

Heartstopper by Alice Oseman (for people who love Graphic Novels)

The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon (for fans of High Fantasy)

It Came from the Closet Edited by Joe Vallese (for fans of Horror Movies)

Too Scary; Didn’t Watch Podcast

Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas (for when you want a Supernatural YA Novel)

Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz (for people who love coming of age stories)

Moby Dyke: An Obsessive Quest To Track Down The Last Remaining Lesbian Bars In America by Krista Burton (for Gays who love going to the bars!)

Stonewall Sports League Richmond

Babes of Carytown

Gay Bar: Why We Went Out by Jeremy Atherton Lin (for Gays who love going to the bars!)

The Charm Offensive by Alison Cochrun (for fans of The Bachelor or The Bachelorette—but make it gay)

Our Wives Under the Sea by Julia Armfield (for when you want a Spooky, Mysterious, SAD book)

Movies That Made Me Gay by Larry Duplechan (for fans of Classic Cinema)

Stars in Your Eyes by Kacen Callender (for fans of Fluffy Rom-Coms)

A little Pride Month History

Here For It by R. Eric Thomas (one of Gigi’s favorite books and writer)

Margo’s Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe with Jess Harshbarger

Tue, 27 May 2025 07:30:00 +0000

This week’s episode is about one of my personal favorite books, Margo’s Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe, and I’m joined by returning guest and longtime friend (and librarian) Jess Harshbarger! This book is everything to me — OnlyFans, motherhood, wrestling, robots, and cosplay are brought together to create this absolutely amazing work of art.

Jess is a library branch manager and has worked in public libraries for the last 18 years. She is a Virginia native but has also spent time in Arizona, North Carolina and Ohio. She is married with two children and three dogs. Her favorite pastime is listening to live music 🎶 and dreams of competing on a music trivia show one day. In the last five years she has embraced her inner 👩🏻‍🎨 . Her style fits best in abstract realism and she mostly uses acrylic medium. She posts under Whimsical Wallflower on Facebook and @whimsicalwallflowerart on instagram, although with her ADHD she admittedly has a hard time keeping up with posts.

Pornstar Martini (from Delish.com)

2oz. vanilla vodka

1oz. passion fruit liqueur (such as Passoã)

1oz. passion fruit purée

1/2oz. fresh lime juice

1/2oz. simple syrup

Sliced fresh passion fruit, for garnish

1oz. Prosecco

Dicrections

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add vodka, liqueur, purée, lime juice, and simple syrup. Cover and vigorously shake until outside of shaker is very frosty, about 20 seconds

Pour into a coupe or wine glass. Garnish with passion fruit slices.

Pour Prosecco into a shot glass. Drink separately or pour into cocktail.

In This Episode

Jess’ Previous DITL Episode - Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret by Judy Blume

PouredOver Podcast interviewing Rufi Thorpe

Interview with Rufi Thorpe

Writer’s Digest - Rufi Thorpe Interview

The Time Travelers Wife by Audrey Niffenegger with Heather Maury

Tue, 20 May 2025 07:30:00 +0000

Welcome back to another episode of Drinks at the Library, the podcast where we pair the perfect drink with the perfect book. Today, we're diving into a love story that bends time and breaks hearts—The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger. It’s a tale of fate, longing, and the delicate threads that tie us to the people we love...even if time itself tries to pull us apart.

My guest this week is Heather Maury, a Richmond-area librarian and a life-long reader. Her favorite book, to this day, is the children's book, "Mandy" by Julie Edwards (better known as Julie Andrews). Anything by TJ Klune and Sadeqa Johnson are instant buys for her. She loves movies, especially anything that Henry Cavill is in, anything that features Tom Cruise running, and anything that's a musical. She is a die-hard Duranie and a certified Swiftie. She lives with 5 cats, 2 dogs, a guinea pig, and some fish. Oh, and she also has two kids (a college freshman and a 1st grader) and a husband.

To match this beautifully complex narrative, our drink this week is The Ephemeral Encounter a cocktail plays with the idea of fleeting moments and the blending of different times —just like Henry and Clare's love story. So, pour yourself a glass, get comfortable, and let's unravel the timelines of this unforgettable romance.

The "Ephemeral Encounter" Cocktail:

This cocktail plays with the idea of fleeting moments and the blending of different times.

Ingredients:

1.5 oz Gin (a classic spirit, representing the timeless nature of their love)

0.75 oz Elderflower Liqueur (St. Germain, for a touch of ethereal sweetness and floral notes, like fleeting memories)

0.5 oz Fresh Lemon Juice (for a bright, sharp contrast, representing the jarring moments of time travel)

0.25 oz Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur (a hint of cherry, for the sweet, romantic core of their relationship, with a slight "old fashioned" feel)

2-3 Dashes of Lavender Bitters (to add a calming, slightly mysterious element, like the ever-present mystery of Henry's travels)

Sparkling Wine or Soda Water (to top, adding effervescence, like the unpredictable flow of time)

Lavender sprig and a cherry, for garnish.

In this Episode

The American Library Association

The Time Travelers Wife - film

The Time Travelers Wife - TV show

A Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky Chambers with Emily James

Tue, 13 May 2025 07:30:00 +0000

In A Psalm for the Wild-Built ,Becky Chambers invites readers into a serene, post-collapse world where a wandering tea monk named Dex crosses paths with a curious robot, sparking a journey of introspection and philosophical wonder. Together, they explore what it means to be content, connected, and truly alive in a world that has learned to live gently.

My guest this week is Emily James, a marketing strategist who moved to Richmond 15 years ago to attend VCU and forgot to leave after graduation. Growing up, she always had her nose in a book and rediscovered her love of reading as an adult thanks to the pandemic, motherhood, and the Libby app. When she's not lost in a good story, you can find her watching reality TV, playing tabletop games, or spending time with her family.

Our protagonist, Dex, is a tea monk who makes teas personalized for whoever they are helping, so our drink this week is tea—whatever your favorite version may be. Pour a mug, relax, and take a break listening to this amazing episode!

In this Episode

The Libby App

The Aurelian Cycle by Rosaria Munda

This is How You Lose the Time War by Max Gladstone and Amal El-Mohtar

Hoopla

The Enneagram

Solarpunk

Books by Becky Chambers

The Murder at the Vicarage by Agatha Christie with Kemper Donovan

Tue, 06 May 2025 07:30:00 +0000

This week, we’re off to the deceptively cozy village of St. Mary Mead, where gossip flows freely and murder is just around the hedgerow. Join us as Miss Marple makes her unforgettable debut in The Murder at the Vicarage—knitting needles in hand and sharper than ever.

My guest this week is author Kemper Donovan. Kemper began his writing career while still working as a manager, eventually publishing his debut novel, The Decent Proposal, after a lengthy journey to publication. Around the same time, he co-created the podcast All About Agatha with his friend Catherine Brobeck, celebrating the work of Agatha Christie. Following Catherine’s passing in 2021, Kemper has continued the podcast on his own, and his passion for Christie’s mysteries led him to create his own Ghostwriter mystery series including books The Busy Body and Loose Lips, now published by Kensington Books. He lives with his husband and their two daughters, and when not writing or podcasting, he enjoys running and making valiant attempts at playing the violin.

Our drink this week is Miss Marples Cherrry Blossom from the book Agatha Whiskey by Colleen Mullany in which Kemper wrote the forward!

MISS MARPLE’S CHERRY BLOSSOM

Serves 2

Miss Jane Marple's character is based loosely on Agatha's grandmother and her friends, and has appeared in twelve novels and twenty short stories. She makes her own cherry brandy from her garden, claiming that a bit of brandy helps ease one's nerves. Cheers to that, Jane!

1 ounce gin

1 ounce cherry brandy

1 ounce sake

¾ ounce grenadine

1 ounce lemon juice

Edible flowers for garnish

In a shaker with ice, combine all ingredients. Shake well, strain into coupe glasses, garnish with edible flowers, and serve.

Mocktail! Replace the gin with Monday or another nonalcoholic spirit, the cherry brandy with San Pellegrino's Sanbitter Red or another nonalcoholic aperitif, and the sake with Gekkeiken alcohol-free Daiginjo Sake or another nonalcoholic sake. Prepare as above.

In this Episode

All About Agatha Podcast

Kemper’s Website

Hercule Poirot Series

The Murder at the Vicarage Episode- All About Agatha Podcast

Dr. Mark Aldridge - Agatha Christie Historian

Shedunnit Podcast

Anne of Green Gables Episode -Drinks in the Library

Nettle & Bone by T. Kingfisher with Bill Howard

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 07:30:00 +0000

Welcome to this week’s episode of Drinks in the Library! Today we’re exploring Nettle & Bone by T. Kingfisher, a darkly whimsical tale of a shy princess who undertakes an impossible quest — armed with a dustwitch, a reluctant fairy godmother, and a dog made of bones — to rescue her sister from a cruel prince and a cursed kingdom.

My guest this week is my husband, Bill Howard. I asked if he wanted me to read a little bio for him, and he said he’d actually prefer to have even less of himself on the internet — which, frankly, is impossible given all the stuff I’ve already spilled about him on this podcast.

Both Bill and I love Nettle & Bone so much and it was fun to talk with him about it! This book is a dark fairy tale and I wanted to pick a dark drink, I think any will do but I went with an Espresso Martini because that is one of Bill’s favorite cocktails.

Espresso Martini

1 ounce espresso or cold brew coffee

2 ounces vodka

1 ounce coffee liqueur, I used Virago, and RVA distillery

.5 ounce simple syrup, or to taste

Ice

Shake with ice and strain into a cocktail glass. You can be cute an garnish it with coffee beans if you want!

In this Episode

Ric Flair

Charlotte Hornets Starter Jackets

Books by T. Kingfisher

Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson DITL Episode

Hyperion by Dan Simmons DITL Episode

Family Search

Hugo Awards

The Women by Kristin Hannah with Sarah Glover

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 07:30:00 +0000

Hello Libration Nation, this week we are discussing The Women by Kristin Hannah. The Women is a powerful, heart-wrenching novel that follows a young nurse, Frankie McGrath, as she volunteers to serve in the Vietnam War — a world of violence, loss, and unspoken heroism. Through her journey, Hannah shines a light on the often overlooked stories of the women who fought, served, and survived, both overseas and at home.

My guest this week is my friend and neighbor, Sarah Glover. Sarah is a teacher by day, mom 24/7. Baker of cookies and sarcasm. Fueled by coffee, true crime, and dark humor. Probably judging your grammar while reading murder mysteries.

Our drink this week was Cut Water Mai Tais! In the book while on R&R Frankie and her friends cut loose with this refreshing, fruity rum drink, so Sarah and I decided to as well!

My plug for this week is that it’s Independent Bookstore Day this coming Saturday April 26th. Please make an effort to support your local shop by visiting them in person or shopping online or through Bookshop.org Here in Richmond you can visit nine participating shops for a chance to earn a $50 gift card. Start at any of the nine participating stores and they will give you a Passport and your first stamp. First day is April 26th. You have until May 10th to get all nine.

Nine participating stores:

@resist_bks (Sat pop up with @thelitbaebookshop)

@tlbookshopva

@bbgbbooks

@fountainbookstore

@abi_books_brews

@bookpeoplerva

@ilysm_books

@midlobooks

@shelflifebooksrva

In this Episode

Books by Kristin Hannah

Still Life with Woodpecker by Tom Robbins with Michael Bickett

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 07:30:00 +0000

Hello Libration Nation! This week we are discussing Still Life with Woodpecker by Tom Robbins. This is a love story… kind of. It’s about a princess, an outlaw, a lot of philosophical rambling, and a surprising number of Camel cigarettes. Tom Robbins basically asks: how do you make love stay? The answers are weird, hilarious, and occasionally involve explosives.

I'm so excited for my guest this week: Michael Bickett is an award-winning podcaster with over a decade of experience and 1,000+ podcast credits. As the Founder and COO of Certified Crucial, he helps creators monetize their podcasts through eco-friendly, custom merchandise solutions. Michael is also the Founder and CEO of Geeks Under the Influence, an award-winning digital media company and podcast network.

A mentor for the RVA Community of Podcasters, he’s passionate about making the podcast industry more inclusive and accessible. With expertise in branding, monetization, and community-building, Michael is a sought-after speaker on topics like creator-driven merchandise, co-branded deals, and creating equitable opportunities in digital spaces.

Since Tom Robbins did spend some time here in Richmond, I wanted to pick a drink that is local. We went with Kopper Kettle's Bourbon Whiskey

In this Episode

Geeks Under the Influence Digital Media

Certified Crucial

Michael Bickett Linktree

Village Café - Richmond, Virginia

Books by Tom Robbins

On the Road - Jack Kerouac

Books by Kurt Vonnegut - Or listen to my Slaughterhouse Five Episode

Every Heart a Doorway by Seanan McGuire with Britt Keup

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 08:47:56 +0000

Hi Libration Nation! I am coming to you this National Library week with a delightful book Every Heart a Doorway by Seanan McGuire, which offers a whimsical, yet dark exploration of fantasy realms where each child's story revolves around finding and losing mystical doors to other worlds.

My guest this week is Britt Keup. Britt is a corporate girly by day, and an avid reader at night. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Britt created her Bookstagram account, what_britt_reads, to share her lifelong love of reading and be a part of a community that loves reading as much as she does. Although she isn't posting on the grid as often, she is still furiously reading behind the scenes and sharing fun instagram stories about all of the books she's reading and her love of her two pups, Ollie and Smokey. Aside from devouring a great book, Britt enjoys spending time with her fiancé, Bryan, her pups, fitness, live music, spending time with friends and she's currently writing her first novel! If you're looking for book recommendations, check her out on her Bookstagram account, what_britt_reads.

Our drink this week is one of my favorite Cabernet Sauvignon’s, a profile both Britt and I love: Double Black’s Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles

Lastly, it is National Library Week, support your local library by visiting a branch, getting a library card if you don’t already have one, and finding other ways to get involved, libraries need our support now more than ever.

In this Episode

Throne of Glass by Sarah J Maas

ACOTAR - A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas

Crescent City Series - by Sarah J. Maas

Throne of the Fallen by Kerri Maniscalco

Say Nothing by Patrick Radden Keefe with Forest Isaac Jones

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 07:30:00 +0000

Hello Libration Nation!, I am so excited for you to hear this week’s episode. Our book is Say Nothing: A True Story of Murder and Memory in Northern Ireland by Patrick Radden Keefe, and my guest is the absolutely amazing Forest Issac Jones. If you didn’t guess it immediately, we paired this book with the most Irish of drinks, a smooth, cold Guinness beer.

Forest Issac Jones is an award-winning author of nonfiction, history, and essays. He specializes in Irish history, the US Civil Rights Movement, and Northern Ireland. He lives in Salem, Virginia. His book, Good Trouble: The Selma, Alabama, and Derry, Northern Ireland Connection 1963-1972, will be released on April 1st, 2025, so if you’re reading this, it’s out!

This episode was so special as Forest spoke with me about his experience writing Good Trouble and reading Say Nothing, exploring the Northern Ireland Troubles and the Civil Rights Movement in the United States. I cannot say enough about what I learned through reading this book, interviewing Forest, and all I can say, if you’re listening to me, to check out Good Trouble now!

And also, if you are loving Drinks in the Library, please go to wherever you listen to your podcasts and leave a review and five stars. I really do check those every week, and it’s so encouraging to me to see the numbers go up. Also, support the show by telling two friends about it this week. This really helps me grow and shares our love of books, reading, and, of course, amazing beverages!

In this Episode

Say Nothing Series on Hulu

Disappearance of Jean McConville

Bloody Sunday, Derry Ireland January 30, 1972

Understanding Northern Ireland’s Troubles

On Bloody Sunday:A New History of the Day and Its Aftermath by Those Who Were There by Julieann Campbell

Burntollet Bridge Attack

Selma to Montgomery March

Dolours and Marian Price

Gerry Adams

Brendan Hughes

Northern Ireland Internment: What is its legacy?

Edmund Pettus Bridge Bloody Sunday March 7, 1965

Eamonn McCann

Marian Price lawsuit against Disney+ over Say Nothing TV Show

Boston College Tapes: Troubles Cofessions

Sheyann Webb-Christburg

Richard Smiley

Billy McVeigh and the Derry riots

Once Upon a Time in Northern Ireland - PBS series

Bernadette Devlin

The Last Ranger by Peter Heller with Sarah Glenn Marsh

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 07:30:00 +0000

Hello Libration Nation! I’m thrilled to welcome Sarah Glenn Marsh to this week's episode as we uncover the wonders of "The Last Ranger" by Peter Heller. A thrilling exploration of nature's beauty and human empathy, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat. And we've paired it with the citrusy and daring Lone Ranger cocktail—tequila, lemon, and a hint of rose—capturing the essence of adventure.

Sarah Glenn Marsh has been an avid fantasy reader since the day her dad handed her a copy of The Hobbit and promised it would change her life. She believes we all deserve happy endings and is an author of books for everyone, including many young adult, middle grade, and picture book titles. She lives in Richmond, Virginia with her family, including one sweet daughter, one slightly dull sword, and the chaos of many pets, like a turtle named Muffin who she definitely did not bring back from any haunted swamp. We Could Be (Anti)heroes is her first adult novel and will be coming out Spring 2026.

And hey, before you go—if you’re loving Drinks in the Library, can you do me a favor? Drop a quick review, hit us with some stars, and most importantly, tell two friends this week. Sharing is caring, and it helps us keep the good times rolling.

The Lone Ranger Cocktail (fron liquor.com)

1 1/2 ounces tequila

1 ounce lemon juice

1/2 ounce rich simple syrup

2 ounces brut rosé sparkling wine

Garnish: lemon twist

Add the tequila, lemon juice and simple syrup to a shaker with ice and shake until well-chilled.

Add the sparkling wine.

Strain into a Collins glass filled with fresh ice.

Garnish with a lemon twist.

In this Episode

Sarah’s Books on Bookshop.org

The Last Ranger by Peter Heller

Sarah Glenn Marsh's Website

Kook by Peter Heller

Yellowstone National Park

Fota Wildlife Park in Ireland

Once There Were Wolves by Charlotte McConaghy

Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler with Gretchen Gales

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 10:03:40 +0000

Hello, Libration Nation! 📚✨ This week, we’re diving into Parable of the Sower by the legendary Octavia Butler. If you haven’t read it yet, get ready—it’s a powerful, thought-provoking novel that feels more relevant than ever.

My guest this week is the lovely Gretchen Gales, a writer, teacher, editor, and occasional artist. Her first poetry chapbook Agora Alien Buddha Press, 2023) is available now. Gretchen's work has also appeared in Ms., HuffPost, Next Avenue, YourTango, Well + Good, and others. See more of her work at www.writinggales.com.

Our drink this week is a green tea highball, which pairs with the Earthseed, which if you have read the book you know is a major part of the story, and if you haven't read the book yet, now is your chance!

Now one last thing, if you love this podcast, do me a favor—take a moment to review, give us a star rating, and most importantly, tell two friends about Drinks in the Library this week. It makes a huge difference!

Green Tea Highball

2 oz. Whisky

2½ oz. Tea

½ oz. Simple syrup

½ oz. Lemon juice

Top up with Soda

Pour over ice in a highball glass, garnish with a lemon wheel.

In this Episode

Kindred by Octavia Butler

Parable of the Sower Graphic Novel

Kindred Graphic Novel

John Green's take on Parable of the Sower

Life as We Knew It by Susan Beth Pfeffer

Annihilation by Jeff Vandermeer

Valley Haggard

The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls

Educated by Tara Westover

Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner

Books by R. Eric Thomas

Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson

Be Ready When the Luck Happens by Ina Garten with Mair Downing

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 09:19:48 +0000

Hello, Libration Nation! 📚✨ This week, we're diving into Be Ready When the Luck Happensby none other than Ina Garten. And joining me is the fabulous Mair Downing!

Our drink this week is a classic Cosmopolitan because Ina Garten has a hilarious video she made at the beginning of the pandemic where she makes a giant, I mean GIANT cosmopolitan, Mair even brought over a giant martini glass for us to replicate it!

In this Episode

Olive Kittridge by Elizabeth Strout

Ina Garten Cocktail Hour

A little bit about Mair:

WHY MAIR?

Everything Mair does is focused on minimizing stress and maximizing joy. She is trained in developing strategies that enhance her clients' strengths, setting them up for early success. She values honesty and transparency and runs an accountable, process-centric business. Behind every seamless transaction is a great deal of preparation—she ensures that everything is in place to make the process feel effortless.

FREE TIME

When Mair isn’t showing homes or preparing listings, she’s cheering on her teen daughters in their various activities—soccer, volleyball, and basketball—or snuggling with her Havanese, Odie (and, of course, her husband, too!). She loves to travel, enjoy great food, and soak in all that life has to offer. For quiet moments, she finds peace sitting on a dock, watching the water glimmer with a good book. Favorite right now: Demon Copperhead.

So, grab your Cosmo and settle in for a great conversation! And before we dive in, I have a quick favor to ask—if you love this podcast, take a moment to review, give us a star rating, and most importantly, tell two friends about Drinks in the Library this week. It really helps us grow!

Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë with Carrie Pruett

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 08:30:00 +0000

Our book this week is the classic love, revenge, and ghost story, Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë, and my guest this week is Carrie Pruett.

Carrie is a power user of the Henrico County, Virginia library. She loves books, movies, and also loves podcasts about books and movies. She frequently appears on the podcast 'Worst Bestsellers' to talk about teenage vampires and horse girls. When she was 13, she accidentally read 'Wuthering Heights' because her mom told her it was 'like Pride and Prejudice.' (It wasn't). Ever since then, she has enjoyed stories about terrible people who make bad decisions, especially if they do it in English country houses.

Our drink this week is a Sam Smith beer from Yorkshire England, near the Moores where Wuthering Heights is set. Sam Smith is Yorkshire’s oldest brewery, it even predates the Brontë sisters and was is a great drink to enjoy while reading this dark, brooding ghost story

If you enjoy the show, please either head over to where you get your podcast and give me 5 stars and a review, or tell two people about it this week. This helps me grow the show and keep it going, as always, I appreciate your support!

In this Episode

Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

Books by Tana French

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë

Books by Thomas Hardy

All Creatures Great and Small by James Herriot

The Brontës by Juliet Barker

Worst Bestsellers Podcast

Carry On by Rainbow Rowell with Rachel Yorkshire

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 08:30:00 +0000

Raise your wands Libration Nation! This week’s book is Carry On by Rainbow Rowell a magical mages story about Simon Snow, the worst chosen one ever according to his roommate and nemesis, Baz. Carry On is the first book in a trilogy and is a ghost story, a love story and a mystery. It has just as much kissing and talking as you'd expect from a Rainbow Rowell story - but far, far more monsters.

My guest this week is Rachel Yorkshire, she lives in Richmond with her wife Marissa and their very spoiled dog. She and her wife both post their bookish endeavors and reviews over on their bookstagram lesbereaders, and they would love for you to give them a follow. If she’s not reading, Rachel is probably daydreaming, laughing with friends, or bothering her dog.

In this story Simon is known for devouring Sour Cherry Scones, so our drink pages homage to that with a Tart Cherry Cocktail!

Sparkling Cherry Lime Mocktail (from a life delicious)

Ingredients

1/4 cup Frozen Cherries (dark, sweet & red tart)

1/2 lime juice

2 tbsps Tart Cherry Juice, unsweetened

Ice

Sparkling Water

Garnish with fresh mint and/or lime

In this Episode

Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell

TJ Klune Books

Casey McQuiston Books

Legends and Lattes by Travis Baldree

Fandom Forward (formerly the Harry Potter Alliance)

Tumblrarians List from my friend Kate Tkacik’s Tumblr (I miss those days so much!)

Drinks in the Library Turns One Year Old!

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 08:30:00 +0000

Happy One Year Anniversary, Libration Nation! 🥳 One year ago, February 20, 2024 the very first episode of Drinks of the Library came into this world. I have so many thoughts on what this year has been like, but today I just want to say thank you to everyone who has supported me along the way.

To celebrate I’ve put together a “clip” episode 🎬, on sitcoms they would call it a “flashback” episode which sounds much more mysterious than clip, but makes far less sense for a podcast, so here we are.

I wish I could have gotten a part of every single episode because I’ve loved them all in different ways, but my apologies this was not possible (also clips from 50 episodes would have been like 3 hours long and none of y’all are listening to that).

I love you so much, thank you for supporting your local library, & me ❤️ Gigi

In this Episode

The Catcher in the Rye by JD Salinger with James Hudson

Wolf Hall by Hillary Mantel with Valerie Adachi

Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros with Hannah Hauck

Olga Dies Dreaming by Xóchitl Gonzalez with Stephanie Lau

Four Thousand weeks by Oliver Burkeman with Rebecca Schinsky

Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret by Judy Blume with Jess Harshbarger

Three Dog Life by Abigail Thomas with Joyce Miller

A Doubter’s Almanac by Ethan Canin with Marty Mooradian

Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson with Beka Castagna

Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara with Allison Schwalm

Have a Beautiful, Terrible Day! By Kate Bowler with Lisa Varga

First, Break All the Rules by Marcus Buckingham with Ira Holliday

The Friday Night Club by Sofia Lundberg, Alyson Richman, and MJ Rose with Izzie Call

Dog Songs by Mary Oliver with Amanda Sue Creasey

Paper Girls by Brian K. Vaughan and Cliff Chiang with Mary Jane French

Generation X by Douglas Coupland with David How

The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe and the Chronicles of Narnia Series by CS Lewis with Erin Surber

The Detective Josie Quinn Series by Lisa Regan with Kristin Miller

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 08:30:00 +0000

This week’s episode covers the Detective Josie Quinn series by Lisa Regan, a police procedural in a small town in Pennsylvania, and my guest this week is Kristin Miller. Kristin is an 80s baby who is an explorer at heart. She is a lifelong reader who recently returned to the US after living abroad in five different countries over nine years. She is now an elementary ESL teacher here in Virginia.

Josie Quinn is a coffee fanatic getting drinks at her local coffee shop, so Kristin and I grabbed coffees from one of my favorite local coffee shops: Coco And Hazel!

In this Episode

Lisa Regan’s Website

Lisa Regan’s Facebook

Lisa Regan’s Readers Lounge for Fans

Castle Series

Bones Series

Sue Grafton Alphabet Series

Lynn Raye Harris Books

Allison Brennan Books

Laura Griffin Books

Melinda Leigh Books

Kendra Elliott Books

The Percy Jackson Series by Rick Riordan with Madison Schmidt

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 08:30:00 +0000

When I was a baby librarian there was not a book requested more than The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan, and all the books that came after it in the series. I was so excited when this week’s guest wanted to talk about it!

Madison is a lover of history that hosts the history podcast It's a History Podcast that covers all things history. When she is not working on researching, recording, or editing, she has her nose in a book. While currently immersed in the “Romantasy” series of ACOTAR and Fourth Wing, Madison's love for fantasy started with the Percy Jackson and the Olympian series.

Having read the series all in one go, Madison has reread these books a number of times. They were an important part of her finding her love for fantasy, as well as furthering her love for reading.

Our drink this week is a Blue Hawaii Cocktail, as you will find out, Percy has a bit of an obsession with blue foods, and he just cannot stay away from water, so this drink is a perfect match!

Blue Hawaii Cocktail (from liquor.com)

3/4 ounce vodka

3/4 ounce light rum

1/2 ounce blue curaçao

3 ounces pineapple juice

1 ounce sweet and sour mix

In This Episode

It’s a History Podcast - Apple

It’s a History Podcast - Spotify

Let’s Talk About Myths Baby - Podcast

Mythology - Edith Hamilton

The Lightning Thief - Film

ACOTAR - A Court of Thorns and Roses - Sarah J. Maas

Fourth Wing - Listen to my Fourth Wing Episode!

The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks with Nancy Houser-Bluhm

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 08:30:00 +0000

This week we are discussing The Big Leap: Conquer Your Hidden Fear and take life to the next level level by Gay Hendricks. This book encourages readers to go beyond their internal limits, release outdated fears and learn a whole new set of powerful skills and habits to liberate authentic greatness. I am joined this week with author Nancy Houser-Bluhm.

Nancy Houser-Bluhm lived in the foothills west of Denver, Colorado for over 25 years with her husband and menagerie of pets. She hailed from Michigan but growing up watching Bonanza, led to a longing to go west.. They have journeyed back to Michigan and are creating a new “Bluhmerosa”. Years of rock climbing and skiing shifted to biking, skiing, yoga, breathing in nature; and daily doses of writing with a variety of groups. Her most recent novel, The Nickel Loop was released July 22, 2024

Drink

In Nancy’s latest book the character enjoys the classic Four Roses Bourbon so Nancy and I sipped on that as we talked!

In this Episode

Nancy’s Website

Buy Nancy’s books!

Nancy’s Blog

Sage Adderly Creative Writing

A Year in Balance by Angela Cominos Koehler

Dramione Fanfiction with Jaclyn Wilkins

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 08:30:00 +0000

I’m so excited to bring you something a little different—not a book, but a genre that’s new to me: FanFiction. Specifically, Dramione Fanfiction, which features stories pairing Harry Potter villain Draco Malfoy with Hermione Granger, the series’ female lead, heroine, and Harry’s BFF. In this episode, I’m joined by a fellow RVA book-lover, Jaclyn Wilkins, who explains to me (and you!) the ins and outs of the Dramione Fanfiction world.

Jaclyn is the owner of The Bookmark, RVA's only mobile bookstore! She’s a stay-at-home mom whose favorite hobby—reading—turned into her dream job. She loves fantasy and world-building books the most and is always happy to recommend them to her customers. In her store, you’ll find new releases, pre-loved books, and bookish merchandise, all available at local markets in Richmond, VA. You can find details about her next stop on her Instagram, @thebookmarkbox. She’s eager to meet more book besties, so be sure to stop by and chat with her about your favorite books!

Our drink this week comes from Fiction & Fizz. Jaclyn reached out to founder Kimberly Parrilla to find the perfect drink to pair with Draco and Hermione's angst and romance—a Firewhiskey! (It was absolutely amazing, by the way!)

Firewhiskey Recipe - from Fiction & Fizz

2 oz Fireball Whiskey

3 - 4 oz Pineapple Juice

Shake and serve over ice, enjoy!

In this Episode

Manacled by SenLinYu

ACOTAR - A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J Mass

Avendell Artwork from Manacled

Roses and Chains by Julie Soto

The Right Thing To Do by LovesBitca8 (Julie Soto)

All The Wrong Things by LovesBitca8 (Julie Soto)

The Auction by LovesBitca8 (Julie Soto)

Secrets and Masks by Emerald_Slytherin

Greenlight by SereneMusafir

Lakeside Farmer’s Market Lovefest - Find Jaclyn here February 9th!

Slaughterhouse Five by Kurt Vonnegut with Kat McCleese

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 08:30:00 +0000

Today we’re stepping into the surreal, tragic, and darkly comedic world of Kurt Vonnegut’s Slaughterhouse-Five—a story about war, time travel, and what it means to say, 'So it goes.'

My guest this week is Kat McClesse. Kat is an Archaeologist with her M.A. in Bioarchaeology and an amateur photographer. Slaughterhouse Five has been one of her favorite books since childhood and sparked a lifelong interest in activism and human rights. She's has a passion for horror and has driven her fiance insane with "too many books" (his words). They live in Tuckahoe, Virginia with their 2 cats.

The protagonist of this story is Billy Pilgrim, a veteran of WWII who becomes unstuck in time. An important moment in the story is where time is explained as a bug caught in amber, so we paired it with an “Amber Old Fashioned”

Amber Old Fashioned Recipe (from vinepair.com)

1 ounce bourbon

1 ounce rich aged rum

1 tablespoon simple syrup

1 dash peach bitters

1 dash Angostura bitters

Garnish: Citrus peel

Directions

Add all ingredients to a mixing glass with ice and stir until chilled.

Strain into a rocks glass with fresh ice.

Garnish with citrus peel.

In This Episode

The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien

Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand

The Writer’s Crusade by Tom Roston

I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai

Slaughterhouse Five: the Graphic Novel by Ryan North and Albert Montes

Color: A Natural History of the Palette by Victoria Finley with Julia Marshel

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 18:26:08 +0000

Artist and author Julia Marshel is someone who sees the world through a lens of wonder and joy. From a young age, Julia discovered that if you look closely, the world reveals an infinite variety of amazing things. That same sense of discovery became a gift she and her wife, Claudia, shared with their three daughters, raising them to see and celebrate the beauty in nature. Her books How Many Will We Find? and My Friend the Maple Tree illustrate this love and her desire to pass it on to others.

Our drink this week is a Boulevardier, which I chose because of its beautiful red color. Interestingly enough, the red in Campari originally came from Carmine, which is one of the colors Julia talks about in the episode, yes - bug blood!

Boulevardier Recipe from Liquor.com

Ingredients

1 1/4 ounces bourbon (or rye)

1 ounce Campari

1 ounce sweet vermouth

Garnish: orange twist

Steps

Add bourbon, Campari and sweet vermouth into a mixing glass with ice and stir until well-chilled.

Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.

Garnish with an orange twist.

In this Episode

JuliaMarshel.com - Julia’s website

Buy Julia’s Books!

Julia Marshel Paints - Facebook

Julia Marshel Paints - Instagram

Color: A Natural History of the Palette by Victoria Finley

RESONATE Podcast Festival

Daniel Smith Yavapai

Georgia O’Keefe’s Ghost Ranch

Breath (2 AM) by Anna Nalick

Dawn Flores at VMFA

Daring Greatly by Brené Brown with Sonya Durney

Tue, 31 Dec 2024 08:30:00 +0000

Hello Libration Nation! This week’s book is Daring Greatly by Dr. Brené Brown, and I’m talking about it with my fellow librarian and library advocacy rockstar - Sonya Durney! Sonya is a passionate advocate for libraries and open education. Sonya is the Scholarly Communication Research & Teaching Librarian at the University of New England, is past president of the Maine Library Association, a member of the American Library Association Policy Corps, and serves on the executive board of the Maine Freedom of Information Coalition. As the Scholarly Communication Research & Teaching Librarian at the University of New England, Sonya liaises with the College of Business and the School of Social and Behavioral Sciences while actively contributing to various university committees, including the Open Educational Resources Steering Committee, Equity and Diversity Council of Chairs, and the University Faculty Assembly.

Sonya holds an MLIS from Simmons College, a BA in Political Science from Framingham State University, and a doctorate in Public Policy focusing on Educational Leadership from the Muskie School of Public Service at the University of Southern Maine. Her research centers on the intersection of public policy and libraries, exploring how legislation shapes access to information. When she’s not immersed in her work or reading, Sonya loves to spend time outdoors in Maine, enjoying adventures with her husband, son, and their beloved chocolate lab, Bourbon.

The challenges librarians face today echo Brown’s idea of “being in the arena.” Whether it’s addressing book bans or advocating for community resources, stepping up despite the fear of criticism embodies the very essence of daring greatly, and Sonya shares her experiences and inspiration pulled from Brené Brown’s work. Please continue to support your local library by visiting www.UniteAgainstBookBans.org and finding ways you can get involved.

Our drink this week is a Mezcal Paloma to highlight Brené Brown’s Texas roots, however she is also proudly sober and I wanted to honor that as well, so I’m also including a Paloma recipe using Ritual Zero Proof Tequila, which I have made for a previous episode.

Mezcal Paloma (link to full recipe with directions)
¼ cup kosher salt
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 lime, zested and sliced
2 oz Mezcal or sub tequila
2 oz Grapefruit juice
1 oz honey simple syrup
Club soda

Paloma Recipe (Non-Alcoholic)

3 ounces Ritual tequila

2 ounces fresh grapefruit juice, plus wedges for garnish

2 ounces club soda

½ ounce lime juice

¼ ounce simple syrup

In this episode

ALA Policy Corps

Maine Library Association

Books by Brené Brown

Brené Brown’s Podcasts

Super Soul Sunday - Oprah’s podcast with Brené Brown

Podcast episode where Brent discusses libraries

“When you defund a library, you can change the economic future of an entire family. So cut that shit out.” -Brené Brown

Animorphs by KA Applegate with Fiona Fenn

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 11:21:07 +0000

Hello Libration Nation! This week we are discussing the classic series Animorphs by K.A. Applegate. Animorphs is a collection of 54 middle-grade books in which five young adults are gifted the power to morph into animals. It was a bit of a cult phenomenon when it was originally published in the late '90s and has recently seen a resurgence online.

Our drink this week is a Flying Saucer, as the Animorphs series begins with the kids meeting an alien who has flown to Earth

Flying Saucer Recipe (from Bevvy.com)

INGREDIENTS

1 oz Amaretto Di Saronno liqueur

1 oz Kahlua coffee liqueur

3 oz cream

3 oz ice

Combine in blender until smooth and creamy, serve with cinnamon stick for garnish!

In this Episode

Fiona Fenn’s Website

Buy The Crack at the Heart of Everything by Fiona Fenn

Michael Grant Gone series

Tiny Fox Press

Animorphs Aloud

Queer Liberation Library

KA Applegate Website

Free Animorphs PDFs

Fiona Fenn’s Substack

The Good Life by Robert J. Waldinger and Marc S. Schulz with David Crowley

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 08:30:00 +0000

Hello Libration Nation! In this week’s episode I’m chatting with David Crowley, nonprofit leader and podcaster, about The Good Life: Lessons from the World's Longest Scientific Study of Happiness by Robert Waldinger and Mark Schultz. Over a glass of Longevity Cabernet Sauvignon, we explored the Harvard study’s core finding: strong, meaningful relationships are key to happiness and health. David shared insights from his work with Social Capital Inc., which combats social isolation, and his personal journey maintaining relationships throughout various phases of life. Together, we reflected on building deeper connections in a digital age.

David Crowley founded Social Capital Inc. (SCI) over 20 years ago in his hometown of Woburn, Massachusetts. Under his leadership, SCI has grown to serve communities across the region while continuing to make a difference in Woburn. Prior to SCI, David was the Executive Director of Boston-based Generations Inc. (now Literations). He has been involved in AmeriCorps since the program began in 1993, and served as the founding Director of the Kentucky Community Service Commission, which oversees the program for the state. David graduated from Harvard University with a degree in Government. Unsure of his long term plans, and after many service activities in college, David set out to do a year of service in rural Kentucky, which began his career serving his community! In his free time, he enjoys cooking for his family, reading and walking nearby Horn Pond. He also shares his kitchen creations on his food & wine blog, Cooking Chat. He also hosts two podcasts: Cook Local, Eat Local and SCI's Cultivating Connections podcasts.

Drink

Longevity Cabernet Sauvignon

Longevity Winemakers

In this Episode

Social Capital Inc.

Cooking Chat (David’s Food & Wine Blog)

Cook Local, Eat Local Podcast

SCI’s Cultivating Connections Podcast

Bowling Alone by Robert D. Putnam

Recent NYT interview with Robert Putnam (not mentioned in the episode but really interesting read on loneliness)

Bird by Bird By Anne Lamott with Gigi Howard (Re-Release)

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 08:30:00 +0000

Listener update: I am taking a short pause over the holidays from all the editing and content creation that goes into this podcast. I have plenty of recordings completed that I can’t wait to share with you, and I plan to air new content every-other week starting next week Tuesday December 3rd. Today’s episode is a replay of an episode I released back in June, I hope you enjoy it!

So, after all these interviews talking with wonderful people about their favorite books, I felt it was time to share some of my own things, and who better to do that with than my husband Bill as our first guest host?!

This week we are talking Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott, one of my favorite books, and a source of inspiration for doing this podcast as well. Our drink this week is a GigiRita, which is just a Margarita with Grand Mariner that a I gave this silly eponymous names a few years ago after making them at home with friends, they are amazing and a staple at my house when hosting!

GigiRita

1 oz Grand Marnier

2 oz Tequila

1 oz Simple Syrup or Agave

.5 oz Lime Juice

Add salt if you want!

In this episode

Small Victories by Anne Lamott

Operating Instructions by Anne Lamott

Somehow by Anne Lamott

Dog Songs by Mary Oliver with Amanda Sue Creasey

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 08:30:00 +0000

Hello Libration Nation! This week, we're diving into a beautifully heartwarming poetry collection, Dog Songs by the illustrious Mary Oliver. Joining me is the wonderful Amanda Sue Creasey, a high school English teacher and the Outdoors Writer for Cooperative Living Magazine. Her novel An Expected Endwas published in 2023. She holds an undergraduate degree in German, English, and Secondary Education from Michigan State University, and a graduate degree in Creative Writing from the University of Denver.

Her work appears in three Chicken Soup for the Soul books, and her poetry, outdoor journalism, and nature photography have earned recognition from the Poetry Society of Virginia and Virginia Outdoor Writers Association.

When she isn’t writing, she enjoys hiking, walking, and standup paddle boarding with her dogs, as well as running and reading. A member of James River Writers, the Poetry Society of Virginia, and Virginia Outdoor Writers Association, she resides in Chester, Virginia, with her husband; Archie the parrot; and two rescue dogs, Nacho and Soda, chihuahua mix littermates who rule the house.

Our beverage for this literary evening is a delightful choice—the refreshing Choice Organics peppermint tea. It’s perfect for winding down in the evening and complements our discussion about the meditative nature of Mary Oliver's work. Though we tossed around several options, including coffee, peppermint tea won out as the ideal calming companion to poetry—offering warmth and comfort as we settled into our discussion.

Mary Oliver's deep connection to nature is another theme we touch on. In "Dog Songs," Oliver beautifully links the nature of dogs to our human experience, inviting us to embrace the interconnectedness of all living things—a reflection that is both contemporary and timeless. For those who are grieving the loss of a dog or simply cherish the companionship of their canine friends, "Dog Songs" serves as a comforting reminder that such bonds are both profound and eternal.

Choice Organic Peppermint Tea

In this Episode

An Unexpected End by Amanda Sue Creasey

Explore More Column by Amanda Sue Creasey for Cooperative Living Magazine

Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell, and Knowby Alexandra Horowitz

Earthly Bodies by Vanessa Chakour

Not MFA novel writing class by Matt Cricchio

The Crucible by Arthur Miller

Sarah Good

The Prince of Tides by Pat Conroy with Laura (LM) Elliott

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 08:30:00 +0000

Welcome back Libration Nation! This week, we're delving into a classic piece of Southern writing with The Prince of Tides by the remarkable Pat Conroy. My guest this week is the amazing, award winning author, Laura Elliott, who I had the pleasure of interviewing while we both were attending the Virginia Library Association Conference last month. Laura really helped us hit a home run with tying the drink in, because she owns a copy of Pat Conroy’s cookbook, and shared with me the recipe for Pat Conroy’s Iced Fruit tea!

Laura shared with me the ways that Pat Conroy impacted her writing, particularly her historical fiction novel Louisa June and the Nazis in the Waveswhich is set in tidewater Virginia and also won the Virginia Library Association Cardinal Cup Award in 2023. Listening to Laura talk about the historical events that framed her story while looking out at the water of Norfolk, realizing how close we were to where those events occurred, is something I don’t think I’ll ever get over

Laura, also known L. M. Elliott was an award-winning, Washington-based magazine journalist, primarily covering women’s issues, before becoming a New York Times best-selling author of historical and biographical fiction. Her novels explore a variety of eras (the Italian Renaissance, American Revolution, Great Depression, WWII, and the Cold War), and are written for a variety of ages.

These works have won the Scott O'Dell Award for Historical Fiction, VLA's Cardinal Cup, and the Grateful American Book Prize; and been named NCSS/CBC Notables (National Council of Social Studies/Children’s Book Council), Bank Street College of Education Best Books, Kirkus Bests, Jr. Library Guild Gold Selections, and received many starred reviews. Elliott holds a BA from Wake Forest University and a master’s in journalism from UNC-Chapel Hill. She is a lifelong Virginian and history-lover.

Laura Elliott shares a touching recount of her personal encounter with Pat Conroy, capturing his gracious spirit and the profound impact he had on her craft. Their conversation, much like Conroy's novels, was rich with storytelling and an appreciation for the nuances of human experience. In discussing "The Prince of Tides," Laura elaborates on the intricate themes and Southern settings that Conroy brings to life. The novel’s protagonist, Tom Wingo, narrates a saga interwoven with familial struggles, the haunting legacy of mental illness, and the eternal tug of the natural world against societal constraints. Conroy's narrative prowess shines through as he paints vivid, albeit sometimes tragic, tapestries of life in the South. Laura segues this conversation into reflections on her own works, particularly her upcoming book Truth, Lies, and Questions in Between, showcasing how her journalistic roots and Conroy's influence weave into her storytelling style.

Our conversation was not just about storytelling but also about the power of narratives to heal and connect. Books, like the tea we shared, offer a therapeutic escape—a thread of connection through time. As we hold onto these stories, let's remember how they can offer clarity in our storms, much like the stars guiding characters in Laura's story.

If you enjoyed this episode, share it with friends, leave us your thoughts, and subscribe for more enriching discussions. Until next time, keep your tea iced and your bookshelf stocked!

Pat Conroy’s Iced Fruit Tea (makes 3 quarts)

4 tea bags

1 lemon

1 orange, sliced, plus more for garnish

1/2 pint strawberries or raspberries, plus more for garnish

1 cup cubed fresh pineapple, plus more for garnish

1. Place the tea bags in a large heatproof pitcher. Using a vegetable peeler or small paring knife, remove the rind from the lemon, being careful not to include any of the bitter white pith. Cut into strips and reserve. Juice the lemon and reserve.

2. In a kettle, bring 10 cups fresh, cold water to a rolling boil. Pour over tea bags and let steep for 10 to 15 minutes, depending on your preference. Remove the tea bags and discard. Add the lemon rind, lemon juice, and other fruits. Refrigerate overnight.

3. Strain the fruit from the tea and discard. Pour the tea over ice cubes and garnish with a pineapple cube, an orange slice, or a strawberry.

In this Episode

Laura’s Website

Louisa June and the Nazis in the Waves by LM Elliott

Truth, Lies, and the Questions in Between by LM Elliott

Southern Festival of the Book

Boozy Booksellers

Pat Conroy Cookbook

Great Santini by Pat Conroy

My Episode with Lisa Varga, VLA director and Library Journal’s 2024 Librarian of the Year

Paper Girls by Brian K. Vaughn with Mary Jane French

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 08:30:00 +0000

Hello, Libration Nation! This week, we're diving into the vibrant world of "Paper Girls," an imaginative comic series by Brian K. Vaughn with artwork by Cliff Chiang. This series, which intertwines coming-of-age narratives with sci-fi elements, is a thrilling ride that takes us through time travel and interwoven destinies.

Joining me this week is comedian and bookseller Mary Jane French. Mary Jane has been performing Stand-up since she was 18-years-old. After starting her gender transition, she began cultivating material that captured her early experiences with transition and recorded it in a home-made special entitled Mary Jane French: Bearded Woman. Currently Mary Jane is producing comedy shows in Richmond, VA with Traverse Comedy.

This week, we indulged in a delightful drink choice: a warm, soothing apple cider, which is perfect as we slip further in our fall season, it’s a bit of a play on words, as Mary Jane explains, Apple products play a quirky role in the series. While ours was the classic non-alcoholic version, we can't forget to mention that apple ciders can be easily personalized with a splash of your favorite spirit, or simply enjoyed with a cinnamon stick for a spicy twist.

As always, if you enjoyed our lively discussion and want to help us grow our community, please share, like, review, and subscribe wherever you tune into our episodes. We appreciate your support and look forward to bringing more exciting conversations your way!

In this Episode

Garden Grove Brewing in Carytown

Bottoms Up Pizza in Shockoe Bottom

Chilling Adventures of Sabrina series

Saga Series by Brian K Vaughn

Something’s Killing the Children series

Papergirls TV Show

Traverse Comedy

The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson with Grace Todd

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 07:30:00 +0000

It's Spooky Season Libration Nation! In this spine-tingling episode, I'm joined by Grace Todd, fellow Richmond podcast host of the "Didn't Read It" podcast, to delve into Shirley Jackson's chilling classic, The Haunting of Hill House. Over Dark Manhattans, we uncover the eerie atmosphere of Hill House, its unsettling characters, and ghostly legacies. Grace shares her deep connection to the novel, analyzing themes of female empowerment, queer undertones, and the metaphorical menace of family structures. We also touch on Jackson's other works and Grace's latest horror series on her podcast. Perfect for horror enthusiasts and fans of eerie literature, this episode offers a blend of humor and spooky insights. Cheers to a frightfully good time!

Grace is an intermittent editor, book gremlin, and aspiring failed novelist. While her MFA in creative writing primarily served to exacerbate both her single-minded obsession with fiction and her dubious mental health, it did give her an excuse to lose herself in books when she should have been doing her day job, for which she is thankful. The book piles in her house are becoming more perilous and less structurally sound by the day.

We recorded this episode in Grace's studio at the Black Iris Social Club, which was so cool, and features a bar where Brett, their charming barkeep, poured us Dark Manhattans, which are delicious with the spice of danger!

Dark Manhattan Recipe

2 oz Cynar

1 oz rye whiskey

1 oz Amaro (Brett made ours with Amaro y Arroyo from the Virginia distillery Copper Fox)

Dash of orange bitters

Garnish - Luxardo Dark Cherries

Serve on ice or stir and shake into a chilled glass - enjoy!

In this Episode

The Haunting of Hill House TV Show

The Haunting (1960s Jackson-sanctioned film version)

We Have Always Lived in the Castle Film

Books by Shirley Jackson

The Shirley Jackson Awards

Thoughts on Shirley Jackson and Queerness

Shirley Jackson's NYT Obituary (not mentioned in the episode but very interesting nonetheless)

Shirley (Elizabeth Moss film)

Didn't Read It episode on Shirley Film

The Rose Code by Kate Quinn with Christine O’Brien

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 07:30:00 +0000

Hello Libration Nation! In this podcast episode, I'm excited to discuss The Rose Code by Kate Quinn with my cousin Christine O'Brien—a nurse, wife, fur-mom, and avid reader. We'll delve into the lives of female codebreakers at Bletchley Park during WWII, exploring their friendships, struggles, and key plot twists. Christine shares her insights on the serious tone of the novel and its historical significance, making it a great pick for book clubs. Join us for this enriching conversation paired with a delightful rosé from Christine's wine club, Armitage. Cheers!

Drink Pairing

Pinot Noir Rosé from Armitage Wines

In this Episode

Bletchley Park

Olsa Benning

Armitage Wines -

The Book of Lost Names by Kristin Harmel

The Women by Kristin Hannah

Kate Quinn’s Wikipedia Page

Ex-Wife by Ursula Parrott with Juliana Soltis

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 10:42:23 +0000

In this episode, we are discussing Ex-Wife by Ursula Parrott, a novel originally published in 1929 and a fascinating account of the experiences of women during the Jazz age. I'm joined by Juliana Soltis, an internationally acclaimed cellist, to discuss the book's continued relevance and its portrayal of female independence during the Jazz Age, akin to a 'Sex and the City' for that era. We also shed light on Parrott's obscured legacy in contrast to Fitzgerald's 'The Great Gatsby.' Moreover, Juliana speaks about her new album American Woman, which highlights lost works by female composers, underscoring the importance of preserving and celebrating women's contributions to art and culture. We wrap up with a tasty note, enjoying a non-alcoholic gin fizz themed to the novel, reflecting Prohibition-era cocktail culture

Juliana Soltis is an internationally-acclaimed cellist, specializing in telling the forgotten stories of classical music. Her latest release from PARMA Recordings, American Woman, explores the lost legacy of America's women composers and is now streaming across all platforms. When not on the road or in the recording studio, Juliana makes her home in Richmond's historic Church HIll neighborhood, where she caters to the every whim of her two greyhounds, Rain and Ceci.

Gin Fizz Recipe

2 ounces gin (We used Monday NA Gin)

1 ounce lemon juice, freshly squeezed

3/4 ounce simple syrup

1 egg white (about 1/2 ounce)

Club soda, to top (about 1 ounce)

Directions

Add the gin, lemon juice, simple syrup and egg white to a shaker and vigorously dry-shake (without ice) for about 15 seconds.

Add 3 or 4 ice cubes and shake vigorously until well-chilled.

Double-strain into a chilled Collins glass and top with club soda.

In this Episode

Juliana Soltis’ Website

American Woman Album

Becoming the Ex-Wife by Dr. Marsha Gordon (Ursula Parrott’s Biography)

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Presentation by Dr. Marsha Gordon on Ursula Parrott (we didn’t discuss this in the episode but I found it absolutely fascinating!)

Bright Lights Big City by Jay McInerney

The Splendid and the Vile by Erik Larson with Helen Gabay

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 07:30:00 +0000

This week we are discussing The Splendid and the Vile by Erik Larson, a thrilling account of Winston Churchill’s first year as Prime Minister of the UK, and some of the darkest moments for England and Allied forces. My guest is Helen Gabay from Richmond, Virginia. She's the mom of an awesome 12-year-old boy, Charlie, and married to Tim, aka "Mr. Fix-it," a talented local contractor. Helen leads a skilled sales team at a major IT advisory company and enjoys working with some of the brightest minds in technology.

Her passions include reading, travel, and history. She studied Political Science, English, and History at The George Washington University. Known for reading obsessively about her travel destinations, Helen often takes her family on walking tours during vacations. In 2020, she had planned a trip to England that fell through, but soon after, she became captivated by Erik Larson’s masterful narrative non-fiction The Splendid and the Vile. Since then, she’s visited London and many of Winston Churchill's historical sites.

Our drink this week is a Gin Gimlet made with Plymouth Gin, which was Churchill’s preferred gin! Helen served the drinks in classic coupe glasses, which was so fun, fancy, and authentic to the story!

Gin Gimlet (with Plymouth Gin)

2 oz. Plymouth Gin Navy Strength

1 oz. lime juice

1/2 oz. part simple syrup

Shake with ice and strain.*

*Helen’s tip: When serving in coupe glasses, fill them with ice water and let them sit for a few minutes to serve cold!

In this Episode

Gin Gimlet invented by Royal Navy to prevent scurvy

Books by Erik Larson

Walking with Destiny by Andrew Roberts (Churchill’s biography)

Washington Post criticism of The Splendid and the Vile

Expo: The Magic of the White City (Documentary on 1893 World’s Fair)

Sliding Doors Film

WWII Films

Darkest Hour Film

Pearl Harbor Film

Dunkirk Film

Generation X by Douglas Coupland with David How

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 07:30:00 +0000

Hello Libration Nation! Ready to go back to the 90s? Today, we're talking about one of the defining books of a generation: Generation X by Douglas Coupland. I'm joined by David How—father, husband, music lover, and proud Canadian 🇨🇦. David shared how this book shaped his life, his love of music, and what it was like coming of age during that unforgettable era. So grab your own drink, settle in, and let’s dive into a conversation that’s all about nostalgia, music, and the power of storytelling.

We're cracking open a classic Canadian drink, a beer and clam🍺, but I chatted with a few of you on Threads and you let me know they can also be called a Red Eye or a Clameye🍅. No matter what you call it, crack open a Molson’s, pour a shot of Clamato in, and sip along with us!

Beer and Clam Drink

Molson’s Canadian Beer

1 shot Clamato

Optional: worcestershire sauce pepper, celery salt, lime

In this Episode

Reality Bites film

Say Anything film

Singles film

BBC Bookclub interview with Douglas Coupland

Roy Lichtenstein artist

Books by Chuck Klosterman

Music

Older:

Modern:

The Midwife by Jennifer Worth with Katie Dolan

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 07:30:00 +0000

I had an amazing chat with Katie Dolan about “The Midwife” by Jennifer Worth, the book that inspired the TV show “Call the Midwife”. We dived into all things birthing, motherhood, and the magic of community.

Katie dove into her birthing and mothering experiences, the book's rich historical backdrop of East End, London, after WWII, and how media shapes our views on childbirth. We also celebrated the incredible importance of building and cherishing our communities.

Katie is a long-time resident of Bon Air, Virginia, balancing life as a mother of (soon-to-be) six children and wife to one! A lover of all things literature, she’s an avid reader across genres. Currently, Katie is taking a break from her work as a postpartum doula to prepare for the arrival of baby number six.

Our drinks this week were from Perk! Coffee & Lunchbox our beloved Bon Air Coffee shop. Katie sipped on a Virginia Fog Tea, while I enjoyed an Iced Chai Latte, one of my favorite treats!

In this Episode

Call the Midwife TV show

Article by David Books “Communities of Character”

A Three Dog Life with Joyce A. Miller

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 07:30:00 +0000

For the dog lovers of Libration Nation, have we got the episode for you! This week, we are discussing Abigail Thomas’s memoir, A Three Dog Life which documents her experience living with her husband after his traumatic brain injury.

"The startling power and beauty of Abigail Thomas's memoir comes not only from her acute perceptions of a man without memories and her fear of losing her husband but from her refusal to surrender the shards of a loving relationship."-- O, the Oprah Magazine

I’m joined this week by Joyce A. Miller, a writer living in the Church Hill section of Richmond, VA. She has written and indie-published two books: Joe Harris, the Moon, historical fiction based on the true story of Miller’s granduncle who played baseball in the 1910s and 1920s, and Look! You’re Dancing: A Memoir of Dogs, Dance and Devotion, which chronicles Miller’s journey of adopting six greyhounds over the past twenty years and how she danced with several of them. Miller is also a member of James River Writers. Before she started writing, Miller worked for over thirty years as a mechanical designer at a nuclear physics laboratory.

As Abigail Thomas loved her home city of Manhattan as well as the drink, we thought it was a perfect pairing with this book!

Manhattan Recipe

2 ounces rye whiskey

1 ounce sweet vermouth

2 dashes Angostura bitters

Garnish: brandied cherry (or lemon twist, if preferred)

In this Episode

Joyce’s Website (with links to books, newsletter)

James River Greyhounds

Gari Melcher Website (and Corinne!)

James River Writers

Greyhound Health Initiative

First Break All the Rules with Ira Holliday

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 07:30:00 +0000

Calling all #librationnation leaders! This week we are discussing the groundbreaking book for managers, “First Break All the Rules” By Marcus Buckingham with Ira Holliday. Husband, father, avid golfer and business strategist are several of the key attributes used to describe Ira Holliday. With over 25 years of Fortune 200 experience in the areas of digital transformation, HR services and agile delivery, Ira has amassed quite the collection of business and leadership-focused authors within his library, including “First Break All The Rules, a New York Times bestseller.

Our drink this week is a Smoked Old Fashioned, which Ira introduced to me, which is a traditional old fashioned but finished using a smoker kit, which gives it an additional layer, perfect for fall.

Old Fashioned Recipe

1 teaspoon sugar

3 dashes Angostura bitters

1 teaspoon water

2 ounces bourbon (or rye whiskey, if preferred)

Garnish: orange twist

In This Episode

Cocktail Smokers

The Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay Stanier

Gen Z and Millennials visit the library more than older generations

Four Thousand Weeks with Rebecca Schinsky

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 07:30:00 +0000

What if I told you that your entire life boils down to just 4,000 weeks? Oliver Burkeman's Four Thousand Weeks will change the way you think about how you spend your time, and this is the exact topic of the amazing conversation I had with Rebecca Schinsky from BookRiot!

Rebecca Schinsky is the Chief of Staff for Riot New Media Group, which runs Book Riot, the largest independent publication covering books and the publishing industry in North America. With over 15 years of experience working in the bookish internet, Rebecca is an expert in building communities and products that enrich readers' lives and promote literary culture. Outside of work, she's passionate about travel, cooking and baking, movies, meditation, and the power of a nice, long walk.

I was so thrilled when Rebecca agreed to come on the podcast! I've been a longtime listener of the Book Riot Podcast, which she co-hosts with Jeff O’Neal. It’s one of my favorite listens, and I’ve learned so much about the book and publishing universe from it. I actually first heard about Four Thousand Weeks from Rebecca talking about it on the Book Riot Podcast, so it was a full-circle moment to discuss it with her.

Our drink this week is one of Rebecca’s favorites: a Manhattan. It was the perfect drink to sip on while we explored all the amazing ideas in this book!

Manhattan Recipe

2 ounces rye whiskey

1 ounce sweet vermouth

2 dashes Angostura bitters

Garnish: brandied cherry (or lemon twist, if preferred)

In this episode

BookRiot

BookRiot Podcast

Oliver Burkeman’s Website

OliverBurkeman Books

Edelweiss and NetGalley (digital galleys for booksellers, librarians etc.)

Booklist Magazine

Wolf Hall with Valerie Adachi

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 07:30:00 +0000

Good Morrow Libration Nation! This week we are LIVING in Henry VIII’s court, delving deeply into Hilary Mantel's historical novel, Wolf Hall Exploring the complex character of Thomas Cromwell, the historical context of Henry VIII's reign, and Mantel's meticulous attention to historical accuracy.

My guest this week is Valerie Adachi. Valerie is a self-proclaimed bookworm who even enjoyed reading cereal boxes as a kid, she reminisces over the tactile joy of spreading the New York Times across her kitchen table.

Recently completing a second master's degree out of sheer curiosity, she embodies a passion for continuous learning and personal growth. Her love for finding and trying new recipes has even inspired her son to become a skilled cook and baker. Adventure always seems to be around the corner for her, often appearing spontaneous but rooted in long-percolating ideas—like the decision to add a new puppy to her already bustling pack, turning her quiet life topsy-turvy.

Beyond her love for dogs, she thrives on live music, good food and drink shared with family and friends, and the thrill of knowing that adventure is always nearby, maybe we a cozy reading spot.

We paired the book with a Whiskey Neat, we drank Oak & Eden Toasted Oak Bourbon & Spire Whiskey - absolutely delicious and pair perfectly with the moodiness of the story.

In this Episode

New York Time’s List of the 100 best books of the 21st century

Virago Spirits (Richmond gin distillery Valerie mentions)

Beacon Mercantile

A Man for All Seasons

Homo Zapiens with Dr. Albert Arias

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 07:30:00 +0000

Welcome to another episode Libration Nation! Today, we're diving deep into the surreal and thought-provoking world of Victor Pelevin's "Generation P," also known as "Homo Zapiens" in English. Joining us is Pelevin aficionado Dr. Albert Arias, and we unravel the complex tapestry of post-Soviet Russia's chaotic transition to capitalism, examining the Western cultural invasion and the profound philosophical layers infused with Buddhism and spirituality that Pelevin navigates in his works We'll also chatter about the intriguing film adaptation, the psychedelic journeys depicted in the narrative, and the eerie foresight of fictional leaders born from deep fakes.

Dr. Arias is a graduate of Michigan State University’s College of Human Medicine (2001), and he completed his residency in psychiatry as well as a master’s degree in clinical and translational research at the University of Connecticut Health Center. He was on the faculty at UCONN School of Medicine and then went on to be a faculty member at Yale University School of Medicine for 7 years in the department of psychiatry before joining VCU in 2018 as an associate professor and the Associate Division Chair for Addiction Psychiatry. He is the current President of the Psychiatric Society of Virginia.

Dr. Arias’ current research focuses on studying the effects of medications on mood disorders and addictions.

We paired the book with Moscow Mules as a tie-in with the author’s home country.

Moscow Mule*

.5 ounce lime juice

2 ounces vodka

4 fluid ounces ginger beer, or to taste

Lime wedge for garnish

*Not required, but generally served in a copper cup

In this episode

Books by Victor Pelevin

Victor Pelevin, Russia’s most mysterious modern writer

Film Adaptation

Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret with Jess Harshbarger

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 07:30:00 +0000

Welcome back, Libration Nation! Today, we're diving into the timeless world of Judy Blume's "Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret." Joining me is the my fellow librarian Jess Harshbarger, as we explore the impact of this iconic coming-of-age story. From touching on friendship, puberty, and identity, to discussing its still-relevant themes 50 years after publication, we’ve got it all covered. Pour yourself a “Blue GigiRita” and enjoy the conversation! 🎧📚🍹

Jess is a library branch manager and has worked in public libraries for the last 18 years. She is a Virginia native but has also spent time in Arizona, North Carolina and Ohio. She is married with two children and three dogs. Her favorite pastime is listening to live music and dreams of competing on a music trivia show one day. In the last five years she has embraced her inner artist. Her style fits best in abstract realism and she mostly uses acrylic medium. She posts under Whimsical Wallflower on Facebook and Whimsical Wallflower Art on instagram, although with her ADHD she admittedly has a hard time keeping up with posts.

Blue GigiRita

1 oz Grand Marnier

1 oz Blue Curaçao

2 oz Tequila

1 oz Simple Syrup or Agave

.5 oz Lime Juice

Add salt if you want!

In this Episode

Books by Judy Blume

Judy Blume Documentary

ALA’s Banned Books

A Doubter’s Almanac with Marty Mooradian

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 07:30:00 +0000

“The Limit Does Not Exist!”

Calling all Mathletes! This week we are talking about the troubled life of mathematician Milo Andret, the protagonist and anti-hero of Ethan Canin’s book "A Daughter’s Almanac". This book is a favorite of my guest, Marty Mooradian.

When Marty isn’t selling apartment complexes with Colliers International, he’s acting in plays and tv commercials, producing electronic dance music and living his best life as the most well known “Dining Room DJ” in Bon Air. Marty has a passion for music and great writing and if he ever gets more time on his hands he’ll get back to making some of the best sour dough on the planet.

Seven and Seven Drink

2 ounces Seagram's 7 Crown Whiskey

4 to 6 ounces 7-Up soda, to taste

Lemon wedge, for garnish

In this Episode

Books by Ethan Canin

Khan Academy

Interview with Ethan Canin

What is a scorpion pepper?

Libby App for Libraries

Hoopla for Libraries

The Rent Collector by Cameron Wright

The Book of Night Women with Elizabeth Klaczynski

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 07:30:00 +0000

This week we are reading a BOOK, and I mean that in the best possible way. The Book of Night Women by Booker Prize winner Marlon James is moving, heartbreaking, magical, and dark. It is also a favorite of this week’s guest, Elizabeth Klaczynski. Elizabeth is a public historian and a curator currently living in Richmond, Virginia. She blames the American Girls series for her love of both history and reading. Elizabeth usually has her head buried in a book, but you can also find her anywhere there is water or playing with her very spoiled fur babies.

This Week’s Drink

Equiano Rum - the first African and Caribbean rum distillery

In this Episode

Books by Marlon James

The Bitter Southerner

The Known World by Edward P. Jones

Rosenwald Schools Exhibition at VA Museum of History and Culture

The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe with Erin Surber

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 07:30:00 +0000

Our cocktail is staying on the Christmas theme with a Narnia 75, which I found on the FoodNetwork UK’s Christmas recipe page!

Narnia 75 Cocktail

25ml gin

1 tsp white sugar

10ml lime juice

100ml Champagne

In this Episode

Friendship of CS Lewis and JRR Tolkien

Worthdays - Richmond area non-profit to support those impacted by the foster care system

Always Only You with Sara Mueller

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 07:30:00 +0000

Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day? Because you are super hot!

Yes, this is a very corny way to start this post, but this week’s episode features the pod’s first romance novel, and it was recorded on a very HOT summer day. This weekI am talking about Always Only You by Chloe Liese with Sara Mueller. Sara is a library assistant manager and has been working in libraries for 11 years. An avid reader since she could learn to put words together, Sara loves sharing her passion for books with anyone who will listen. She is a self-proclaimed hopeless romantic who enjoys romance novels - the steamier the better - as well as thrillers, mysteries, and literary works. Sara is a plant mom with an ever growing brood of plant babies and often spends her free time at her favorite garden-center finding new plants to adopt. She dreams of one day owning an alpaca farm and having a personal library with its own rolling shelf ladder.

We paired the novel with Sangria, which you can really make so many ways, but here is my recipe for a pitcher to share with friends:

Sangria

1 bottle red wine

1 cup orange juice

1/4 cup brandy

1 Apple, chopped

1 Peach, chopped

I recommend letting it blend in the fridge for a few hours before serving so the fruit soaks up the liquid.

In this episode

Chloe Liese’ Website

The Flatshare by Beth O’Leary

Towards the end of the episode Sara and I discuss books that use Autism in characters as a plot device. As neither Sara or I have Autism, I wanted to share thoughts on this subject from someone who does.

Have a Beautiful, Terrible Day! With Lisa Varga

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 07:30:00 +0000

Ruby Red Grapefruit Crush Ingredients

4 oz (½ cup) grapefruit juice

1 oz (2 tablespoons) vodka

½ oz (1 tablespoon) triple sec (orange liqueur)

2 oz (¼ cup) lemon-lime soda or club soda

In This Episode

Unite Against Book Bans - https://uniteagainstbookbans.org/

Virginia Library Association - https://www.vla.org/

Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin

Virginia Society of Association Executives

Everything Happens - Kate Bowler’s podcast

Gigi’s Episode on Anne Lamott’s Bird by Bird

Rob Delaney’s Episode of Everything Happens

Catastrophe TV Show

Terrible, Thanks for Asking Podcast

The Hot Young Widows Club by Nora McInerny

From the Dust Returned with Harry Szabo

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 07:30:00 +0000

Hello Libration Nation! This week I am discussing From the Dust Returned with Harry Szabo. Harry is a writer and union organizer. Their books, What Big Teeth and We All Fall Down, explore bad queer representation. They live with their three cats in Richmond, Virginia.

From the Dust Returned has such an Addams Family vibe, so for our drink I went with the red wine The Fugitive by C.A. Dry Creek because the picture on the label reminded me of cousin Itt.

In this episode

Friendship of Charles Addams and Ray Bradbury

Harry’s Website

Moby Dick Commentary

United Campus Workers of Virginia

Bird by Bird with Gigi Howard

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 07:30:00 +0000

Hello Libration Nation - I’m back! So, after all these interviews talking with wonderful people about their favorite books, I felt it was time to share some of my own things, and who better to do that with than my husband Bill as our first guest host?!

This week we are talking Bird by Bird by Anne Lamont, one of my favorite books, and a source of inspiration for doing this podcast as well. Our drink this week is a GigiRita, which is just a Margarita with Grand Mariner that a I gave this silly eponymous names a few years ago after making them at home with friends, they are amazing and a staple at my house when hosting!

GigiRita

1 oz Grand Marnier

2 oz Tequila

1 oz Simple Syrup or Agave

.5 oz Lime Juice

Add salt if you want!

In this episode

Small Victories by Anne Lamott

Operating Instructions by Anne Lamott

Somehow by Anne Lamott

Return of Hyperion with Bill Howard

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 07:30:00 +0000

Hello Libration Nation! So this week I am announcing that I am taking a tiny two week break from the podcast BECAUSE I am working with my friends at EveryLibrary to host some author interviews over the next two weeks. EveryLibrary is the only political action committee for libraries, and I’m thrilled to be partnering with them and doing my favorite thing, promoting storytelling and libraries!

Here is the interview schedule:

June 13, 2024 at 2pm Mary Jane Wells, author

June 13, 20247 pm Alexis Landau, author, with Cassandra Campbell narrator

June 18 7 pm Alison Larkin, author

June 20 7 pm Jason June, author

More info and links to tune in can be found on EveryLibrary’s Website

The regularly scheduled podcast will be back in 2 weeks on Tuesday June 25. I’m really excited for the interviews I’ve already recorded and can’t wait to get them out to you then.

Included here is my very first episode that I did with my husband, Bill, on the book Hyperion. So if you haven’t gotten around to that episode, here it is. As I’ve said before since this was my very first recording the audio isn’t the best, however the jokes are solid gold. Enjoy!

20,000 Leagues Under the Sea with Keely Blue

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 07:30:00 +0000

We are going under the sea, 20,000 leagues worth to be precise! It was sincerely so wonderful to talk with Keely Blue about this novel that she loves dearly and learn all the ways it has impacted her. Keely is a library worker by day and singer by night. She fronts the alternative indie band The Tea Lights. In her spare time, she loves walking, collecting records, and escaping into fictional worlds.

For our drink Keely picked a Dark ’n Stormy, a classic ginger beer based cocktail that pairs perfectly with some of the darker scenes in this classic novel by Jules Verne!

Dark ’n Stormy Cocktail

1 part Dark Rum

3 parts Ginger Beer

Splash of lime juice

In this Episode

The Tea Lights

Voyage of the Nautilus Project

Explanation of the (mis)translations of 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea

Jules Verne’s editor and the homeland of Captain Nemo

Isaac Asimov

Ursula LeGuin

Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams

Project Gutenberg

How Public Domain Works

Ahab’s Wife with Dr. Nan Carmack

Tue, 28 May 2024 07:30:00 +0000

I’m so thrilled this week to be talking with Dr. Nan Carmack about a book that profoundly impacted her, Ahab’s Wife, or the Star-gazer by Sena Jeter Naslund. This book is a brilliant recapturing of the life of Ahab’s wife from Moby Dick and is the author, Nasland’s demonstration of a beautiful female journey in juxtaposition of Melville’s inherently male story. The life of our protagonist, Una, is largely set in Nantucket, so we enjoyed Nantucket cocktails while discussing all the interesting aspects of this adventure novel.

Nan Carmack is the Director of Library Development and Networking at the Library of Virginia. She works with all of the public libraries in the commonwealth. She is also an adjunct professor at Old Dominion University's Masters in Library and Information Science. After a first career as a mental health therapist and then a short stint as an independent bookstore owner, Nan finds that public libraries are the perfect intersection of social justice and intellectual curiosity. She is an amateur artist and enjoys getting her hands dirty in the garden. She has become one of those embarrassing people whose dogs are her children, now that her family has flown the coop. She and her husband live in Richmond, VA. Naps are a priority in her life.

Nantucket Cocktail

1.5 oz. White Rum

2.5 oz. Cranberry Juice

Splash Grapefruit Juice

Lime for garnish (optional)

In this episode:

The Red Tent by Anita Diamant

Port William Series (Jayber Crow) by Wendell Berry

Ron Rash Books

Silas House Books

Gangsters of Capitalism by Jonathan M. Katz

Abundance: A Novel of Marie Antoinette by Sena Jeter Naslund

Virginia Literary Awards

Sherlock in Love by Sena Jeter Naslund

This Tender Land by William Kent Kruger

In Distrust of Movements by Wendell Berry

The Friday Night Club with Izzie Call

Tue, 21 May 2024 07:30:00 +0000

This week I am discussing The Friday Night Club: A Novel of Artist Hilma af Klint and Her Creative Circle by Sofia Lindberg, Alyson Richman and MJ Rose. I was so pleased that my friend and museum educator Izzie Call came on the pod and shared her passion and inspiration in learning about “The Mother of Abstract Art” Hilma af Klint. Izzie is a passionate educator who loves art and reading, and listening to her bring these two loves together is a true gift. Enjoy!

In this Episode:

Linda Nochlin’s Why Have There Been No Great Women Artists?

Girl with the Pearl Earring by Tracy Chevalier

The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt

Hilmas work The Swan, No. 12, Group IX/SUW from 1915 that was featured in Upgraded: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hilma_af_Klint#/media/File%3AHilma_af_Klint_-_1915_-_The_Swan_-_No_16.jpg

Guggenheim website that shows the 2019 exhibition of Hilma’s work that inspired the book: https://www.guggenheim.org/exhibition/hilma-af-klint

To compare Hilmas work to the “Father of Abstract Art”: take a look at some of Wasily Kandinskys work and compare to Hilmas. https://artsandculture.google.com/entity/wassily-kandinsky/m0856z?hl=en

Swedish 75 Cocktail

3 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice

6 Tablespoons gin

2 Tablespoons lingonberry jam

Ice cubes for shaking

dry sparkling wine, chilled

Marzahn, Mon Amour with Patricia Smith

Tue, 14 May 2024 07:30:00 +0000

Libration Nation is going International! This week we are discussing the German book Marzahn, Mon Amour by Katja Oskamp, which was the winner of the Dublin Literary Award 2023. Also, this Mother’s Day Week, my guest is none other than the Queen of Libration Nation herself, my mother Patricia Smith! Marzahn, Mon Amour is about the experiences of a woman who becomes a pedicurist in Marzahn, Berlin and chronicles the stories of her clients, mostly seniors who came of age in East Berlin before the Wall came down. These stories are told with compassion and curiosity, documenting the beauty and truth of a people who have experienced both tragedy and triumph.

Our drink this week is an Aperol Spritz, which is featured in the book and is perfect beverage to enjoy all summer long!

Aperol Spritz Recipe

Ice

3 ounces Aperol

3 ounces dry Prosecco

1 ounce club soda

Orange slice, for garnish

In this episode

Hoopla for Libraries

Marzahn, Berlin

Dublin Literary Award

The Clown by Heinrich Boll

The Last Book in the Universe with Heather Knapp

Tue, 07 May 2024 07:30:00 +0000

Hello Libration Nation! This week I am talking with writer, library worker and avid reader Heather Knapp about a book that had a big impact on her as a child and kicked-off her love of reading: The Last Book in the Universe by Rodman Philbrick.

One of the characters in this story LOVES Chocolate, so Heather and I paired it with a Chocolate Martini Mocktail!

Chocolate Martini Mocktail

3/4 cups milk of your choice

1 tbsp. sweetened condensed milk

3 tbsp chocolate syrup

Whipped Cream (optional)

1 teaspoon flaked chocolate for garnish (optional)

In this episode

Brave New World

Famous People with Epilepsy

Fourth Wing with Hannah Hauck

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 07:30:00 +0000

But I gotta know what’s your Romanta-ta-cy? If you are Hannah “H Bomb” Hauck the answer to this is Fourth Wing and everything else that is coming next from Rebecca Yarros. This is a fun romp with my BFF as we discuss Fourth Wing and everything around the creation of this story, deep diving into both the smut and the publishing industry. Seriously, where else are you going to find this kind of content?! Hannah also made her own cocktail for this episode, “The Wingleader”, a light twist on a Margarita!

The Wingleader

1.5 oz Tequila

1 oz Triple Sec

.5 oz Lime Juice

2 oz Orange Juice

1 oz Club Soda

.5 oz Agave

In this episode

Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros

Elhors Danlos syndrome

Red Tower Books

Rebecca Yarros Romance Novels

Ranganthan’s Five Laws of Library Science

Book Riot Podcast - First Edition

Rebecca Yarros Non-Profit One October

The Catcher in the Rye with James Hudson

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 07:30:00 +0000

This week I am talking with librarian James Hudson about The Catcher in the Rye by JD Salinger, an American classic and a book that had a huge impact on James as a teenager. We recorded this episode on St. Patrick’s Day, and decided to celebrate with a Guinness Beer, probably the least phony beer out there and hopefully a choice Holden would respect.

In this episode

The Catcher in the Rye by JD Salinger

Various Catcher in the Rye covers

Papyrus SNL skit

Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallace

H is for Hawk by Helen Macdonald

David Copperfield by Charles Dickens

Coming thro’ the Rye poem by Robert Burns

Rushmore film by Wes Anderson

The Royal Tenenbaums film by Wes Anderson

From Here to Eternity with Kierston Foutz

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 07:30:00 +0000

Giddy-up folks, we are talking about everyone’s favorite topic: DEATH. I loved talking with Kierston about all things death, funeral practices from around the world, grief, and love. Kierston is a library customer services supervisor and loves to read, especially books that teach her something new. You can follow her beautifully curated Instagram: @oursharedshelves For our discussion Kierston chose From Here to Eternity: Traveling the World to Find the Good Death by Caitlin Doughty, a mortician who is fascinated by death. There are so many different funeral and burial practices around the world and this book explores many of them.

For our drink we went witha beer: the Rogue Dead Guy Ale, which is delicious and a great choice to go along with the title.

In this episode:

Ask a Mortician - Caitlin Doughty’s YouTube

Human Remains Project in Cullowhee NC (Correction: In the pod I misremembered this program being at UNC Pembroke - It’s at Western Carolina University. Apologies to the entire UNC school system!)

Congratulations! The Best is Over by R. Eric Thomas

Celebrating Dia de los Muertos in Mexico

Olga Dies Dreaming with Dr. Stephanie Lau

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 07:30:00 +0000

This week I am joined by Dr. Stephanie Lau, she is research faculty in the School of Education at VCU, she has a Masters of Arts in Teaching as well as a PhD in Public Policy and Administration. She is also a wife and mom of two young boys, and on top of all this she has co-run our neighborhood bookclub with me since 2021!

Stephanie picked one of the many books we have read for bookclub, Olga Dies Dreaming Xóchitl González. Olga is a wedding planner in Brooklyn trying to find her way, but will her mother-turned-Puerto-Rico-revolutionary ruin all her plans? This book is LAY-ERED, there is so much about family, parenthood, Puerto Rican history, love, loss, and maybe everything else in-between. We had a great time talking about this book and I loved the thoughtfulness Stephanie came to this conversation with, and how much of the nuance from the novel she was able to cipher out and demonstrate what a tremendous book this is.

For the drink we chose a Caipinhara, which is the national drink of Brazil and absolutely delicious. Why did we choose a Brazilian drink to discuss a book largely about Puerto Rico? You will just have to listen to the episode to find out!

Caipinhara Recipe

½ lime, quartered

1 teaspoon white sugar

2 ½ fluid ounces cachaça (Brazilian rum)

1 cup ice cubes

Squeeze and drop lime wedges into a large rocks glass. Add sugar and muddle until juices release.

Pour in cachaça and ice. Stir well.

Although I was not able to find a Zero-proof cachaça, using a Ritual Rum will work to make a refreshing alcohol free option!

In this episode:

Puerto Rico Oversight, Management, and Economic Stability Act (PROMESA)

Caipinhara

Anita de Monte Laughs Last - Xóchitl González latest book!

Vote for DITL for Best Podcast at Richmond Magazine (voting is going until April 26th!)

Anne of Green Gables with Deanna Firehair

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Did you read the Anne of Green Gables series as a young girl and then walk through the woods pretending to be Anne and Diana? Yes? So did I and so did my friend Deanna!

Raspberry Cordial Mule

12 oz. Frozen Raspberries

3 cups Water

¾ cup Sugar

2 tsp. Lime Juice plus more for cocktails

Vodka

Ginger Beer

Fresh Raspberries (for garnish)

In this episode:

Deanna’s Instagram

Anne of Green Gables 2 part special (Megan Fellows version is cannon)

LM Montgomery

Unreasonable Hospitality with Allison Schwalm

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 19:26:02 +0000

Hello Libration Nation!

This week I talk with realtor and small business owner Allison Schwalm about the book Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara. This book is about all things hospitality and customer service and Allison expands on how it inspires her own business practices. It’s a great book for anyone who is aiming to grow their business, or is interested in showing caring and respect through service. Also, this is the book Richie is reading during season one of The Bear! I have never felt cooler.

For our drink Allison chose a Paloma, which is a favorite of both of ours and I think feels very “restauranty” and fancy. We recorded while Allison was doing dry January, so we made it non-alcoholic by using Ritual Tequila which I bought at Ceremony, an adorable and very hip shop in the Fan RVA, check it out!

You can find Allison on Instagram: Allison Schwalm and Allison Schwalm Summit Properties

Paloma Recipe (Non-Alcoholic)

3 ounces Ritual tequila (2 oz if using alcoholic tequila)

2 ounces fresh grapefruit juice, plus wedges for garnish

2 ounces club soda

½ ounce lime juice

¼ ounce simple syrup

Lastly a shameless plug for you to vote for Drinks in the Library as the Best Podcast for Richmond Magazine’s Best & Worst list. I also endorse Allison Schwalm as Best Entrepreneur for this list, please include us in your voting activities!

Here is a list of things discussed in this podcast:

Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara

Summit Properties Allison’s Realty Company

Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer

Ceremony Dry Bottle Shop

Ritual Tequila (Non- alcoholic)

Young Mother in Richmond

11 Madison Park NYC

The Big Brunch Cooking Show

The Bear TV Show

Brené Brown Books

Lessons in Chemistry with Haley Houghton

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 07:30:00 +0000

Hello Libration Nation! This week I’m joined by Haley Houghton, an educator and book enthusiast. The book we discuss is “Lessons in Chemistry” by Bonnie Garmus. For our drink we chose coffee (this was recorded in the morning and as busy moms we weren’t quite ready to get at it), and Haley added a little chemistry twist by making it in an Aeropress. In this episode we discuss turning 40, our two person only book-club, and the general bad-assery of Bonnie Garmus in writing the strong, quirky, brilliant female character Elizabeth Zott.

Haley mentions this story is a tragicomedy, which is right on and there are some great read-alike out there if you want more like this book:

Where’d You Go Bernadette by Maria Semple

Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman

The Elegance of the Hedgehog* by Muriel Barbery

*We did refer to this as The Elegance of the Porcupine which I think is a very cute and relatable mistake

Mistborn with Beka Castagna

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 07:30:00 +0000

Hello Libration Nation! This week’s episode features librarian Beka Castagna as we discuss her latest fantasy obsession, the Mistborn series by Brandon Sanderson. Beka walks me through the premise of the book, its characters, and the series role as one of the biggest-name fantasy series on the market. We also discuss this Wired article, which was my entree into the insanely complicated world of who Brandon Sanderson is and what it’s like to be a Brandon Sanderson fan (did you know he lives in an underground castle?!) Also, I repeatedly call the subtitle of the book “The Final Kingdom” when it is in fact “The Final Empire” -my apologies - please don’t come at me!

For our drink we chose “The Survivor”, a moniker of one of the story’s main characters. Pineapple and chocolate is a somewhat bizarre choice for a drink, but we’ll let you decide what you think, cheers!

1.5 oz. White rum

0.25 oz. Crème de cacao (dark)

1 oz. Pineapple juice

0.25 oz. Lime juice

The Exorcist with Matthew Knotts

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Hello Libration Nation! This week horror film enthusiast Matthew Knotts is here to talk about one of his favorite books and films “The Exorcist” by William Peter Blatty. The episode touches equally with the film side of the story as well as the book and was delightful and hilarious to record.

For our drink we went with the Exorcist Cocktail from this website. The ingredients are:

3/4 oz of Lime Juice
1 1/2 oz of Tequila
3/4 oz of blue curacao liqueur

For ours we added a little grapefruit juice just to add a little flavor.

There is also a surprise drink twist about halfway through, you will have to listen to find out! Cheers!

_____

I do want to mention that we discuss JK Rowling towards the end of the conversation and we did not bring up any of her troubling beliefs and actions against the Transgender community. This was not intentional and was an oversight as we focused on her writing, however just a reminder this IS the 3rd episode a podcast I’ve ever produced, so I’m learning and will try to do better next time.

Hyperion with Bill Howard

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 08:53:00 +0000

I could not pick a better first guest than my life-partner, Bill! We discuss one of his favorite books Hyperion, land some pretty decent jokes, and consider the potential that we get cancelled on this very first podcast episode. Kidding (I hope!)

The book is Hyperion by Dan Simmons, and Bill choose to pair our household beverage, a Gin & Fresca, or as we call them “A Girlfriend” (GF, get it?!)

Girlfriends:

2 oz Gin

6 oz

That’s it! Stir over ice and let your tastebuds explode!

www.drinksinthelibrary.com

Drinks in the Library Trailer

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 18:10:54 +0000

Drinks in the Library is thinly library where drinks aren’t just allowed, they are required! Each episode librarian Gigi Howard interviews a guest about a much loved book and we pair it with a drink!

Instagram: @DrinksintheLibrary