Big Book Energy: Recent Episodes
Jennifer Fain
Hi đ My name is Jennifer and I love books! I love them so much I became a librarian, I write stories in my free time, and I have a podcast where I talk all things bookish: Big Book Energy. These conversations will address how books were, are, and will continue to be relevant to our every day lives. Keep reading â€ïž
Sitting Down With Florida Man
This week, BBE welcomes the Florida Men on Florida Man podcast back to the show. Jennifer sits down with Wayne to discuss Dave Berryâs book, Best State Ever, a heartfelt defense of his beloved state of Florida.
Episode Highlights
- Sponges. Yes, sponges. We know, you're hooked already.
- The Villages: your favorite quasi-dystopian retirement community.
- When are you considered a Floridian? What about a Mainer?
- The Skunk Ape makes an appearance, which is unsurprising given Jenniferâs Bigfoot obsession.
- Anecdotes on alligators are shared.
- If you're in Florida and want to go to a beautiful park with a lighthouse, check out St. Mark's National Wildlife Refuge.
- What do you think the best state ever is and why? The answers may [not] surprise you.
Connect with Florida Men On Florida Man
- Interesting in learning more about Florida Man? Find them on your favorite podcasting app.
- Or check out their website.
- Or their supremely ~aesthetic~ Instagram.
Support the Pod
- Find BBE on Instagram
- Visit the Bookshop Store
- Buy Me A Coffee!
- Donât forget to leave us a review if you are enjoying the pod.
Some of the links above are affiliate links and I will receive commission from any purchases made through them
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bigbookenergy)
The Never-To-Be-Read List
This week Jennifer gives a [belated] look at her 2021 reading and talks about her reading goals for 2022. Yes, she knows that it is already March.
Paige Presents Webtoons: One of Jenniferâs latest Webtoon obsessions, The Gentle Way follows the Judo practitioner Jun as she learns how to confront her fears and overcome her anxiety. Super cute, romance vibes, but also great lessons on how to live your life bravely and authentically.
Visit the author's Instagram or Patreon if you want more!
Episode Highlights
- Did Jennifer reach her 2021 reading goals of 80 books and reading all the unread books on her shelf? No. No she did not.
- Trying to pick more reasonable goals for 2022 reading.
- Please help Jennifer figure out how to read the books she already owns. Please.
- Jennifer introduces the slightly re-imagined segment: Paige Presents Webtoons
Support the Pod
- Find BBE on Instagram
- Visit the Bookshop Store
- Buy Me A Coffee!
- Donât forget to leave us a review if you are enjoying the pod.
Some of the links above are affiliate links and I will receive commission from any purchases made through them
Support the show (https://patreon.com/BigBookEnergy)
BBE is transitioning to a new phase. One that unfortunately lacks Paige. Tune in to hear about her new adventures, plans for the future, and a wrap up of season 4. Stay tuned for a new phase of BBE where Jennifer will continue to bring you all the bookish content you could hope for!
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bigbookenergy)
Listen along as we take a dive into what some might consider fanfiction. Whether or not it is, we here at BBE loved hearing Captain Wentworth's side of the Persuasion story.
Support the show (https://patreon.com/BigBookEnergy)
Paige needed to compensate for the discomfort brought on by reading a spicy romance novel. She went with aliens.
Area 51, by Bob Mayer
- Learn more about the author and his books on his website.
- Want to read about flying saucers and shadowy military ops? Support us by buying a copy from our Bookshop store.
Paige Presents Fun with Comics: Jennifer talks Webtoon Like Wind On A Dry Branch. Click on for some plague, demons, and magic.
Creativeâs Corner: For some amazing commentary content and zany original music, check out YouTuber MĂŒnecat.
Discussion Questions
- Why did Paige pick this book?
- What did Jennifer think of the alien insanity?
- Do we have any more "wild" sci-fi reads to recommend?
- Given Mayerâs military background, what do we think about the negative depiction of the military in this book?
- Insert Jennifer talking about Stargate a lot again
Support the Pod
- Find us on Instagram
- Find us on Twitter
- Donât forget to leave us a review if you are enjoying the pod.
Some of the links above are affiliate links and we will receive commission from any purchases made through them
Support the show (https://patreon.com/BigBookEnergy)
Bring the Romance: Jenniferâs Fav Spicy Webtoons
Carrying on the trend of our July episode, Jennifer dives into some of her favorite ~spicy~ romance Webtoons. With some incredible stories and art, this is just another reason to download the app and get reading stat.
Some of Jenniferâs fav spicy Webtoons:
- Freaking Romance
- At Armâs Length
- Letâs Play
- SubZero
- Midnight Poppy Land
Support the Pod
- Find us on Instagram
- Find us on Twitter
- Donât forget to leave us a review if you are enjoying the pod.
- Check out our Bookshop store!
Some of the links above are affiliate links and we will receive commission from any purchases made through them
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bigbookenergy)
BBE branches out with this month's pick into uncomfortable territory for both Jennifer and Paige (but mostly Paige). Tune in to hear out thoughts on our first Guilty Pleasure Pick: The Kiss Quotient.
The Kissing Quotient, by Helen Hoang
- Learn more about the author on her website.
- Want in on the spice? Grab a copy for yourself on our Bookshop store.
Paige Presents Fun with Comics: Girls of the Wildâs on Webtoon.
Creativeâs Corner: Paige serves up an Iceland-inspired podcast: Saga Thing. Hosted by two professors, get an entertaining breakdown of Icelandic literature.
Discussion Questions
- Why did Jennifer choose The Kiss Quotient as a guilty pleasure book?
- I [Jennifer] am dying to know what you [Paige] thought of this book, it is very outside our normal range of reading
- What were your favorite or least favorite spicy moments?
Support the Pod
- Find us on Instagram
- Find us on Twitter
- Donât forget to leave us a review if you are enjoying the pod.
Some of the links above are affiliate links and we will receive commission from any purchases made through them
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bigbookenergy)
Shame, Shame: An Intro to Guilty Pleasure Reads
In this first episode of BBE Shorts, Jennifer spends some time musing over what âguilty pleasure readsâ means to her, and even reveals some of her favs to fall back on when sheâs feeling down. She also explores what our listeners think of as guilty pleasure reads and hints at future episodes that dig more into why we feel guilty about reading certain things rather than others.
Some of Jenniferâs fav guilty pleasure reads:
- Any Jane Austen books
- Mr. Darcyâs Diary
- Captain Wentworthâs Diary
- Anything by Eva Ibbotson
- Crown Duel by Sherwood Smith
- Radiance by Grace Draven and company
- Winternight Trilogy by Elizabeth Arden
- Then honestly probably some of my fav webtoons that I read and re-read over again, which I am already planning on mentioning those more in a later episode.
- Interested in any of these books? Some of them are available on our Bookshop store!
Questions Jennifer Asks
- What do I think of when I think of guilty pleasure reads?
- What other genres or specific books do people classify as âguilty pleasureâ?
- Where does this guilt come from?
Support the Pod
- Find us on Instagram
- Find us on Twitter
- Donât forget to leave us a review if you are enjoying the pod.
Some of the links above are affiliate links and we will receive commission from any purchases made through them
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bigbookenergy)
As you may remember, we experienced some technical difficulties back in February and weren't able to release our normally scheduled episode. Well, we're back with Tiger's Daughter, for real this time. Tune in to hear our lost episode and what Paige thinks about this Mongol inspired pick.
Mythology & Folklore: Mongolia
Here are the references Paige used for Mongolian mythology:
- http://www.antor.org/mongolia-culture.html
- https://www.oxfordreference.com/view/10.1093/oi/authority.20110803110143814
- https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erlik
- https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C3%9Clgen
Paige Presents Fun with Comics: This week, Jennifer raves about the adorable Down To Earth.
The Tigerâs Daughter, K. Arsenault Rivera
- Keep up with the author by visiting her website.
- Interested in the story? Buy a copy for yourself and support the podcast!
Creativeâs Corner: want some vintage editions of works by black authors? Maybe a custom curation in your chosen topic? Look no further than Good Books Atlanta, a mother-daughter duo dedicated to providing the best of blackness in literature. You can also check out their instagram!
Discussion Questions
- Have you ever read anything with a Mongol influence?
- What do you think about Shizuka and Shefaliâs relationship?
- What is Paigeâs perspective on critiques of The Tigerâs Daughter?
- https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/2032356303?book_show_action=true&from_review_page=1
- https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1999199519?book_show_action=true&from_review_page=1
Support the Pod
- Find us on Instagram
- Find us on Twitter
- Donât forget to leave us a review if you are enjoying the pod.
Some of the links above are affiliate links and we will receive commission from any purchases made through them
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bigbookenergy)
For our final bonus episode of this season, our coworker Dianna has come on to talk about Period Power. Let us know what you think! We may have a part 2 in store for you!
Period Power, by Maisie Hill
- Visit the authorâs website to learn more about her and her work.
- Purchase a copy for yourself and support the podcast at the same time!
Folio Facts: This month, Paige tackles the witch hunting manual, Malleus Maleficarum, which translates to Hammer of the Witches! Despite an awesome name, this book was written by a terrible dude, Heinrich Krammer, in 1486, and was used to persecute many suspected witches in the centuries that followed. Interested in learning more? Check out this video by the Law Library of Congress on their copy, or this video by Story To Tell.
Discussion Questions
- How do you feel about Eastern/Traditional Chinese Medicines and Hillâs take on a lot of weastern period related medicines? (i.e. the pill)
- Do you feel like her overview in chapter one gave you new, or even surprising information, NOT covered in âsex edâ?
- What are our thoughts on Hillâs recommendation for diet to support our cycle?
Support the Pod
- Find us on Instagram
- Find us on Twitter
- Donât forget to leave us a review if you are enjoying the pod.
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bigbookenergy)
Paige finally gets her chance to make everyone listen to a story from Irish Mythology. Tune in to hear about an Irish epic centered around a cattle raid and a protagonist with the weirdest superpower.
Mythology & Folklore: Irish
- Most of this came from the preface of the Tain
- Wikipedia got Paige through the info on the Morrigan and Lugh
Paige Presents Fun with Comics: Get real bookish and check out The Reference Desk podcast, hosted by two librarians and discussing the topics that fascinate them the most.
The TĂĄin, translated by Thomas Kinsella
- Purchase a copy for yourself and support the podcast at the same time!
Creativeâs Corner: This week, Jennifer is recommending another webtoon, Unholy Blood. Recommended if youâre into vampires, action, gorgeous art, or badass kween protagonists.
Discussion Questions
- Tale Foundry suggests that one of the reasons that Irish mythology isnât as popular, and also is an excellent choice for writers, is because there are a lot of holes in the myths. It isnât as tightly constructed as say Norse Mythology or Greek Mythology. What do you think about this?
- Cuchulainn is used as a propaganda tool by Northern Ireland. What do you think about harkening back to a glorified past based on mythology?
Support the Pod
- Find us on Instagram
- Find us on Twitter
- Donât forget to leave us a review if you are enjoying the pod.
- If youâd like to support the podcast and get access to full-length bonus episodes, check out our Patreon.
Some of the links above are affiliate links and we will receive commission from any purchases made through them
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bigbookenergy)
For Jennifer's final episode of the season, she has chosen a slightly different pick with the Power of Myth by Joseph Campbell. Tune in as she analyzes Campbell's theories on comparative mythology.
The Power of Myth, by Joseph Campbell
Resources Jennifer used:
- Joseph Campbell has a rather robust wikipedia article, that also details and links some of the critiques leveled against him that you can check out. Like Jennifer mentioned in the episode, these are all pretty old at this point.
- Interview w/ the Curator of the Joseph Campbell Archive and Library gives some interesting perspective on Campbellâs career from someone who knew him personally.
- Another article published shortly after Campbellâs death on his works and legacy.
- Intrigued by our discussion? Purchase a copy of The Power of Mythfor yourself.
Paige Presents Fun with Comics: Descender by Jeff Lemire and Dustin Nguyen.
Creativeâs Corner: Paige serves another mythology knockout with YouTube channel Fortress of Lugh.
Discussion Questions
- Campbell says, âWe canât have a mythology for a long, long time to come. Things are changing too fast to become mythologizedâ (38). Do you agree with this statement? If there is a modern mythology, what would it be?
- Campbell argues that there are four functions of myths, but that the fourth one is most important for us today: pedagogical. Meaning that myths teach us âhow to live a human lifetime under any circumstancesâ (39). What do you think? What have myths taught you in your life?
- What do you think of the concept of the monomyth (the heroâs journey)? Is it truly as all-encompassing as Campbell made it out to be?
Support the Pod
- Find us on Instagram
- Find us on Twitter
- Donât forget to leave us a review if you are enjoying the pod.
- If you are interested in being on the show, check out the Book Elder tier on our Patreon
Some of the links above are affiliate links and we will receive commission from any purchases made through them
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bigbookenergy)
This episode we are doing Horror Lite! Paige's friend Sammie chose a book for us that has just enough horror elements to not scare the uninitiated but also has an original concept that all of us appreciated. Tune in to hear about the Library at Mount Char by Scott Hawkins.
The Library at Mount Char, by Scott Hawkins
- Check out Scott Hawkinsâ website.
- Buy your own copy of The Library at Mount Char.
Folio Facts: This month Jennifer digs into the story of Mark Hoffman, whoâs story was recently highlighted in the documentary, Murder Among the Mormons.
Discussion Questions
- Which of the catalogs would you want to study?
- The concept of a heart coal is cool as fuck and we should discuss.
- Why is the language catalogue the most powerful in the library? And how does Carolyn capitalize on this power?
- Was the library at Mount char the library at Alexandria at one point? Destroyed to keep it secret???
- Father tells Carolyn about the chances he gave David to become the heir to the universe, and Carolyn being the monster he has to overcome. What does this say about Nature vs. Nurture?
Support the Pod
- Find us on Instagram
- Find us on Twitter
- Donât forget to leave us a review if you are enjoying the pod
- If you are interested in being on the show, check out the Book Elder tier on our Patreon
Some of the links above are affiliate links and we will receive commission from any purchases made through them
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bigbookenergy)
For this episode, Paige chose a classic feminist retelling of King Arthur: The Mists of Avalon. However, on closer inspection of the author we found some information that casts the novel in a very different light.
Mythology & Folklore: the legend of King Arthur
Resources Paige used for the folklore surrounding King Arthur:
- Britannica articles on King Arthur, Arthurian Legend, and Culhwch and Olwen.
Paige Presents Fun with Comics: This week Jennifer talked about one of her new favorite Webtoons: The Strongest Florist.
The Mists of Avalon, Marion Zimmer Bradley
- To learn more about the author, check out her Wikipedia page.
- To learn more about the book, check out the Wikipedia page. For reasons mentioned in the episode, we do not feel it is appropriate to profit off sales of Bradleyâs work, and therefore you will not find this book on our Bookshop site as usual.
Creativeâs Corner: Jennifer presents the Spooky Science Sisters! An awesome podcast debunking some supernatural stuff with science. They create amazing and entertaining social media content as well. You can find them on Instagram (and other social media) and you can listen to the pod almost anywhere podcasts live.
Discussion Questions
- What did you think of Mists of Avalon when you read it?
- Letâs talk about Bradleyâs questionable legacy. Also, why do we have to have this discussion every other episode?
- The Book that Made Me a Feminist Was Written By An Abuser, by Jessica Jernigan
- SFF Community Reeling After Marion Zimmer Bradley's Daughter Accuses Her of Abuse, by Alison Flood
- Deirdre Saoirse Moen has shared several blog posts on how the accusations unfolded.
- Whatâs your favorite piece of Arthurian based media?
Support the Pod
- Find us on Instagram
- Find us on Twitter
- Donât forget to leave us a review if you are enjoying the pod.
- If you are interested in being on the show, check out the Book Elder tier on our Patreon
Some of the links above are affiliate links and we will receive commission from any purchases made through them
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bigbookenergy)
Mythology & Folklore: Pre-Columbian
Resources used for general Pre-Columbian mythology:
- The Britannica article on Pre-Columbian cultures was very in-depth
- Lost World of the Maya (Full Episode) | National Geographic
And here is what Jennifer used in relation to Black Sun specifically:
- Queztalcoatl
Paige Presents Fun with Comics: This week Paige talked about New Spring, a graphic novel interpretation of Robert Jordanâs prequel to the Wheel of Time series. Unfortunately, Jennifer was not able to find this on Bookshop...but you can always look on AbeBooks!
Black Sun, Rebecca Roanhorse
- For more info about the author, check out her website, she also did an interview with NPR about Black Sun.
- Buy a copy of Black Sunfor yourself.
Creativeâs Corner: we had a guest this week! Cameron from Florida Men on Florida Man podcast joined us today to talk about their show. Cameron entertained us with some of his fav stories on Florida Man. They have some exciting things coming up that we talk about in this episode, but make sure to check out their website for all their links and all the latest.
Discussion Questions
- Initial thoughts on the book; did you like it?
- Multiple POV successes and failures, our thoughts
- As mentioned in the discussion, Paige uses BestFantasyBooks and BestScienceFictionBooks.com to help her find awesome new reads.
- What about other fantasies based in Latin or South America?
- These are actually pretty hard to find, but here are the resources Jennifer did come across: a Reddit thread on Pre-Columbian fantasies, a Reddit thread on Latin America-based fantasies more generally, and a BookRiot article on Latinx fantasy.
- Nebula Awards: why do we think this was nominated? What book do we think should win?
- Weâre doing a blog series on the Nebula nominees this year! So make sure to check the blog for reviews on all the novels and novellas.
Support the Pod
- Find us on Instagram
- Find us on Twitter
- Donât forget to leave us a review if you are enjoying the pod.
- If you are interested in being on the show, check out the Book Elder tier on our Patreon
Some of the links above are affiliate links and we will receive commission from any purchases made through them
Support the show (https://patreon.com/BigBookEnergy)
For this episode we brought in an expert! Jennifer's compatriot from graduate school, Ryan, joined us to discuss The Knife Man: Blood, Body Snatching, and the Birth of Modern Surgery, which focuses on the wild life and times of surgeon John Hunter. Both gruesome and fascinating in equal parts, you won't want to miss out on this one.
The Knife Man, Wendy Moore
- For more info about the author and her other books check outher website.
- Buy a copy ofThe Knife Manfor yourself.
Folio Facts: This month Paige chose the Book of Kells as our Folio Facts topic. The epitome of medieval illuminated manuscript, the exact origins of this book remain mysterious. Today you can find it on display at Trinity College in Dublin. If you canât make it to Ireland any time soon, you can alsoview the Book of Kells online.
Discussion Questions
- What is your favorite (or horrifying?) medical practice/belief/procedure you learned about in the book?
- How can we reconcile Hunterâs incredible contributions to the medical field with his more unsavory actions?
- Should Charles Byrnes bones be returned to Ireland?
- Was the âHunterian Revolutionâ inevitable? In other words, would the effects of the Enlightenment have eventually led to people combining the study of human anatomy and surgery with a corresponding move away from Galenic practices?
Ryanâs Book Recommendations
- The Dead Shall Not Rest, Tessa Harris
- The History of the Royal Society of Medicine, Penelope Hunting
- Dr. MĂŒtterâs Marvels, Cristin OâKeefe Aptowicz
Other Links mentioned in the Episode
- [William] Hunterian Museum:https://www.gla.ac.uk/hunterian/
- [John] Hunterian Museum: https://www.rcseng.ac.uk/museums-and-archives/hunterian-museum/
Support the Pod
- Find us on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/big_book_energy
- Find us on Twitter:https://www.twitter.com/big_book_energy
- Donât forget to leave us a review if you are enjoying the pod:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/big-book-energy/id1494813078
- If you are interested in being on the show, check out the Book Elder tier on our Patreon
Some of the links above are affiliate links and we will receive commission from any purchases made through them
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bigbookenergy)
This episode, Paige chooses a tale firmly rooted in Norse Mythology. Tune in to hear about everyone's favorite Trickster and his take on some less well known myths.
Mythology & Folklore: Norse
Resources used for general Norse mythology:
- The Creation of the Cosmos:https://norse-mythology.org/tales/norse-creation-myth/
- The Nine Realms in Norse Mythology: https://skjalden.com/nine-realms-in-norse-mythology/
And here is what Paige used for Loki specifically:
- Loki the Trickster in Norse Mythology:https://blog.vkngjewelry.com/loki-trickster-god/
Paige Presents Fun with Comics: Stray Souls
The Gospel of Loki, Joanne M. Harris
- For more info about the author, check outher website.
- Buy a copy ofThe Gospel of Lokifor yourself.
Creativeâs Corner: for a hefty dose of cuteness, check outbobertquailon Instagram.
Discussion Questions
- Were you familiar with any Norse myths before this episode and if so, which ones?
- Do you have any favorite movies/books that feature a Norse myth component? (i.e., letâs talk about MARVEL!)
Support the Pod
- Find us on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/big_book_energy
- Find us on Twitter:https://www.twitter.com/big_book_energy
- Donât forget to leave us a review if you are enjoying the pod:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/big-book-energy/id1494813078
- If you are interested in being on the show, check out the Book Elder tier on our Patreon
Some of the links above are affiliate links and we will receive commission from any purchases made through them
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bigbookenergy)
Tune in for a dive into Greek mythology and a book that Jennifer says is the best she's read in a while and one that WILL make you cry: The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller.
Mythology & Folklore: Greece
Resources used for general Greek mythology:
- A Brief Summary of Greek Origin Story:https://youtu.be/4VaO1tx29ek
- Crash Course Mythology on Greek creation:https://youtu.be/XNCQ9w59I7M
- Greek Gods family tree:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Family_tree_of_the_Greek_gods
And here are the links Jennifer used for The Iliad:
- Wiki page on The Iliad:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iliad
- Overly Sarcastic Productions vid on The Iliad, a good laugh:https://youtu.be/faSrRHw6eZ8
Paige Presents Fun with Comics: Attack on Titan
The Song of Achilles, Madeline Miller
- For more info about the author, check outher website.
- Buy a copy ofThe Song of Achillesfor yourself.
- If you are interested in other books inspired by The Iliad, check outthis Goodreads list.
Creativeâs Corner: YouTube channel, Useful Charts. Far more interesting than the name sounds so make sure to check it out!
Discussion Questions
- Did you like Greek mythology growing up? What was your favorite myth if you had one?
- What were your thoughts/impressions reading The Odyssey or The Iliad for school? (This is Jennifer assuming everyone had to read at least one of them at some point for school)
Support the Pod
- Find us on Instagram.
- Find us on Twitter.
- Donât forget to leave us a review if you are enjoying the pod.
- If you are interested in being on the show, check out the Book Elder tier on our Patreon!
Some of the links above are affiliate links and we will receive commission from any purchases made through them
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bigbookenergy)
Because Paige's computer ate some of our raw audio for our normally scheduled episode delaying our release, BBE decided to publish a bonus episode for everyone. Enjoy as Paige's sister Kayla joins BBE to discuss a true crime murder mystery as shown in Janice Hisle's Submerged.
Submerged: The Story of Sarah and Ryan Widmer
- Kayla recommends checking out true crime and conspiracy podcast:Mile Higher
- Also, take a look the Netflix true crime docuseries, Trial by Media, which features episodes focusing on court cases where the media played an especially pivotal role.
- To learn more about Janie Hisle, check outher website.
- You can also purchase Submerged for yourself on Amazon.
Folio Facts: did you know famous detective novelist Anne Perry was convicted of murder as a teenager? Check out the links below to learn more about her and other authors-turned-criminals.
- 5 Crime Writers Who Were Also Murderers - Vice
- Wiki Page onAnne Perry
Discussion Questions
- Do you think Ryan Widmer is guilty?
- Do you think it is wrong of the media to get this involved in true crime cases?
- If you were a juror in just one of these cases, without the background info of this book or of the other trials, would your opinion change?
Support the Pod
- Find us on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/big_book_energy
- Find us on Twitter:https://www.twitter.com/big_book_energy
- Donât forget to leave us a review if you are enjoying the pod:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/big-book-energy/id1494813078
- If you are interested in being on the show, check out the Book Elder tier on our Patreon
Some of the links above are affiliate links and we will receive commission from any purchases made through them
Support the show (https://patreon.com/BigBookEnergy)
This week we discuss a classic of Japanese Literature: Tales of Moonlight and Rain by Ueda Akinari. Tune in to hear some wild stories and to hear Jennifer's opinion on a classic.
Mythology & Folklore: Japan
Jennifer did her best to give a brief summary of Japanese religious history during this episode, and here are a few of the sources that she used:
- A bullet list of the main points of Japanese religious history:https://www.uwosh.edu/facstaff/barnhill/244-japan/bits-of-history
- Wikipedia article on Shinto
- Wikipedia article onReligion in Japan
- Wikipedia article on Japanese Mythology
- Very cool video that tells the Shinto creation myth with Japanese artwork:https://youtu.be/l3MKdJjQeOw
- An impressive 25-minute summary of Japanese history with adorable animations:https://youtu.be/8Zwi3XXLci8
And here are the sources for some of the specific folklore bits that Jennifer talked about:
- An interesting discussion between two Buddhist monks on the Asura Realm:https://youtu.be/SnauEqgUYnw
- Wikipedia article on theAsura Realm
- An amazing encyclopedia of Japanese yokai:http://yokai.com/
- A brief survey of some of the most notorious Yokai:https://youtu.be/Gd1D2gWhDXM
Paige Presents Fun with Comics: Lazarus, Image Comics
Tales of Moonlight and Rain, Ueda Akinari
- Wikipedia article onUeda Akinari
- Wikipedia article on Tales of Moonlight and Rain
- Buy a copy for yourself:https://bookshop.org/a/9616/9780231139137
Creativeâs Corner: a true crime YouTube channel, Brief Case.
Discussion Questions
- What was the last book you read that made you feel like you were not smart enough to be reading it?
- What books have you read that you felt suffered from being translated? i.e. something was missing, the word choice or style didnât come across well, etc.
Support the Pod
- Find us on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/big_book_energy
- Find us on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/big_book_energy
- Donât forget to leave us a review if you are enjoying the pod:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/big-book-energy/id1494813078
- If you are interested in being on the show, check out the Book Elder tier on our Patreon
Some of the links above are affiliate links and we will receive commission from any purchases made through them
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bigbookenergy)
This season we are doing Phone a Friend for our bonus episodes! Tune in to hear guest host Brooke join us to discuss Leigh Bardugo's Ninth House!
Ninth House & Leigh Bardugo
- Learn more about the author on her website:https://www.leighbardugo.com/about/
- Watch the trailer for the new Shadow and Bone series here:https://youtu.be/vDd_IEBwP2U
- Buy a copy of Ninth House for yourself:https://bookshop.org/a/9616/9781250751362
Folio Facts: The Codex Gigas
This month, Paige presents the Codex Gigas, which is not only a big a** book, but is also known as the Devilâs Bible, due to the creepy story of its origin and a huge illustration of Satan himself inside. To learn more:
- Check out Wikipedia:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Codex_Gigas
- Or this youtube video:https://youtu.be/bsDe42IRvVo
Discussion Questions
- What were your overall thoughts/opinions of the book? Did you like it?
- Thoughts on the use of sexual assault and drugs as part of Alexâs backstory?
- What did you think about the chronological arrangement of this narrative? i.e. three, sometimes four different timelines cutting in and out of each other
- Do you have a favorite character?
- What did you think of the magic system compared to others?
- Did you guess who the villain was?
Support the Pod
- Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/big_book_energy
- Find us on Twitter:https://www.twitter.com/big_book_energy
- Donât forget to leave us a review if you are enjoying the pod:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/big-book-energy/id1494813078
- If you are interested in being on the show, check out the Book Elder tier on our Patreon
Some of the links above are affiliate links and we will receive commission from any purchases made through them
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This episode we dive into the Witcher franchise with The Last Wish. Tune in to continue our talks on Slavic folklore and our thoughts on the Witcher book and Netflix series.
Slavic Folklore Resources
- Brendan Noble on the Striga:https://youtu.be/eIAUemZb1vo
- Dogman Narrativeâs Recap of a Strigoi Legend: https://youtu.be/DBmXA0SKyk8
- Listen to a podcast episode reading the story of Vasalisa the Wise and the Sea Tsar: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sea-tsar-and-vasilisa-the-wise-a-russian-folk-tale/id1504182068?i=1000469626290
Paige Presents Fun with Comics: In the Bleak Midwinter, Webtoon
The Last Wish
- Learn more about Adrej Sapkowski:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andrzej_Sapkowski
- Watch the Netflix Show:https://www.netflix.com/title/80189685
- Buy a copy for yourself:https://bookshop.org/a/9616/9780316438964
Creativeâs Corner: Henry Sotheranâs Rare Bookseller
Discussion Questions:
- What did you think of the book?
- Book vs TV show?
- What did you think about the Law of Surprise?
- Do you believe Stregobor or Renfri?
Support the pod
- Find us on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/big_book_energy
- Find us on Twitter:https://www.twitter.com/big_book_energy
- Donât forget to leave us a review if you are enjoying the pod: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/big-book-energy/id1494813078
- If you are interested in being on the show, check out the Book Elder tier on our Patreon
Some of the links above are affiliate links and we will receive commission from any purchases made through them
Support the show (https://patreon.com/BigBookEnergy)
We open up season 3 with The Bear and the Nightingale, a story inspired by Slavic and Russian Folklore. Tune in to learn a bit about this story and the mythology it is based on.
Russian Folklore Resources
- Russian Folklore: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Folklore_of_Russia
- A Brief History of Russian Folklore: https://www.pushkinhouse.org/blog/2020/5/13/a-brief-history-of-russian-folklore
- Routledge Companion to Russian Literature: https://www.google.com/books/edition/The_Routledge_Companion_to_Russian_Liter/k2BO7K6tYIoC?hl=en&gbpv=0
- Father Frost tale: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Father_Frost_(fairy_tale)
- Vasilisa the Beautiful: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vasilisa_the_Beautiful
- Other fun source for Russian mythology: https://meettheslavs.com/russian-mythology/
Paige Presents Fun with Comics: Lore Olympus, Webtoon
The Bear and The Nightingale
- Learn more about Katherine Arden: http://katherinearden.com/
- Buy a copy for yourself: https://bookshop.org/a/9616/9781101885956
Creativeâs Corner: Tale Foundry
- YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCusb0SpT8elBJdbcEJS_l2A
- Website: https://thetalefoundry.com/about/
Discussion
- What are some similarities and differences you can see between Russian/Slavic folklore and Western folklore or fairy tales?
- Vasyaâs socially acceptable choices are get married or go to a convent. She chooses neither and runs off on her own. If you lived in this society or time period, what do you think you would have done?
- What are some modern folk tales that you are familiar with? Would you want to read a book inspired by them?
- Ivan Bilibin was the artist Jennifer was talking about during the discussion, you can learn more about him here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ivan_Bilibin
- Or see a portfolio of his work here: https://www.wikiart.org/en/ivan-bilibin
Support the pod
- Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/big_book_energy
- Find us on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/big_book_energy
- Donât forget to leave us a review if you are enjoying the pod: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/big-book-energy/id1494813078
- If you are interested in being on the show, check out the Book Elder tier on our Patreon
Some of the links above are affiliate links and we will receive commission from any purchases made through them
Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/bigbookenergy)
We're back for Season 3! This season is all about mythology and folklore. We're also bringing on some of our listeners as special co-hosts during our bonus episodes. Tune in for another exciting season of BBE!
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We are finishing out the season with our final Movie Magic Pick, cult favorite The Princess Bride. Listen in as we gush over a mutually favorite movie title... and also the book.
You can support BBE at patreon.com/bigbookenergy or through our bookstore at bookshop.org/shop/BigBookEnergyÂ
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Paige chooses one of her favorite SciFi books to read for the final episode of Books We Love: The White Plague by Frank Herbert. It's a great book, but perhaps the middle of a pandemic was not the best time to read it.
Folio Facts: Oldest printing press in British North America
BBE Bookstore: Sick by Porochista Khakpour
Creatives' Corner: Roman Empire, Netflix
You can support BBE at patreon.com/bigbookenergy or through our bookstore at bookshop.org/shop/BigBookEnergy  Â
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For Jennifer's final pick of the season she chose Woven in Moonlight by Isabel Ibañez. Tune in to hear about an amazing magical system in an unusual setting for a fantasy novel.
Folio Facts: Lost Languages on Medieval Manuscripts
BBE Bookstore: Binti by Nnedi Okorafor
Creatives' Corner: Story Graph
You can support BBE at patreon.com/bigbookenergy or through our bookstore at bookshop.org/shop/BigBookEnergy Â
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For Spooky Season's Movie Magic pick, we pushed the limits of Jennifer's horror endurance. Tune in to hear if she thought the book was scary or not.
You can support BBE at patreon.com/bigbookenergy or through our bookstore at bookshop.org/shop/BigBookEnergyÂ
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For Paige's Spooky Season pick, she has chosen a book that gave her nightmares last time around. Tune in to hear about a book that has consistently shown up on internet lists as one of the scariest books ever written.
Folio Facts: Agatha Christie novels solve real world crimes
BBE Bookstore: Humans by Brandon Stanton
Creatives' Corner: Watercolor by Shibasaki, YouTube
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It's official. Jennifer has declared a favorite book and it is The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson. Tune in to hear about H.H. Holmes and the Chicago World Fair.
Folio Facts: Tale of Genji
BBE Bookstore: Njal's Saga
Creative's Corner: Bookish Realm, YouTube
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For today's episode, Paige has chosen The Bloodprint by Ausma Zehanat Khan, a fantasy novel based in Middle Eastern culture. Tune in as Paige explains why she chose this book, even though it has a lower Goodreads rating than you might expect from a book we love.
Folio Facts: Carnegie Library Book Heist
BBE Bookstore: The Little Book of Hygge by Meik Wiking
Creative's Corner: Biographics, YouTube
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We continue our Movie Magic theme with a popular movie choice: Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly. There were some unexpected differences between the book and movie which left both of us with feelings.
You can support BBE at patreon.com/bigbookenergy or through our bookstore at bookshop.org/shop/BigBookEnergy Â
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BBE gets Academic for this episode. Check out a favorite from Jennifer's graduate school days: Holy Feast and Holy Fast by Caroline Walker Bynum. Tune in for a discussion about Medieval Saints, food, and history.
Folio Facts: Voynich Manuscript
BBE Bookstore: A Dead Djinn in Cairo by P. Djeli Clark
Creative's Corner: Lindsay Ellis, YouTube
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For this episode, Paige has selected a book that made her stop and think: The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin. Tune in to hear about a society with no gender by one of Science Fiction's great authors.
Folio Facts: World's Oldest Bookstore
BBE Bookstore: Me and White Supremacy by Layla Saad
Creative's Corner: Netflix's Wellness
You can support BBE at patreon.com/bigbookenergy or through our bookstore at bookshop.org/shop/BigBookEnergy Â
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Continuing our Movie Magic theme for this season's bonus episodes, we took a dive into a modern classic: Love in the Time of Cholera by Gabriel Garcia Marquez. Let's just say that we were both less than impressed.Â
Paige Presents Fun with Comics: Wytches by Scott Snyder and Jock
You can support BBE at patreon.com/bigbookenergy or through our bookstore at bookshop.org/shop/BigBookEnergy Â
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Jennifer takes us through a nostalgic read for her this episode: Jurassic Park by Michael Crichton. For the discussion, Jennifer gets into the hubris of scientists and some insight by one of the most annoying characters.
Folio Facts: Destroyed Library of Baghdad
BBE Bookstore: Gideon the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir
Creatives Corner: Samosas and Sirens
You can support BBE at patreon.com/bigbookenergy or through our bookstore at bookshop.org/shop/BigBookEnergy Â
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For this episode's book, Paige brought in her favorite book of all time: Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy. Tune in to hear about Paige's thoughts and Jennifer & Paige's disagreement about the movie adaption.
Folio Facts: Book Smell
BBE Bookstore: Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari
Creative's Corner: Overly Sarcastic Prodcutions
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This season, at your request, we are doing Movie Magic as our theme for the bonus episodes. We are also introducing a new segment, Paige Presents Fund with Comics. Tune in to hear us compare books and movies and also for Paige to finally get a chance to talk about comic books.
For our first episode, we are reviewing the book and movie The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks and discussing the ethics surrounding her unique situation.
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For our second episode, Jennifer has chosen perhaps the greatest revenge story in book history: The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas. Tune in for a summary of this awesome book and a discussion on things like vigilante justice.
Folio Facts: Medieval Comic Books
BBE Bookstore: All Systems Red by Martha Wells
Creative's Corner: Artisan Geek
You can support BBE at patreon.com/bigbookenergy or through our bookstore at bookshop.org/shop/BigBookEnergyÂ
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For the first episode of Season 2, Paige comes out swinging with what she considers to be the gold star of fantasy writing: The Fifth Season by N.K. Jemisin. Tune in to learn more about the first book in Jeminin's Broken Earth trilogy and a discussion on world building and aesthetics in books.
Folio Facts: the most expensive book ever sold
BBE Bookstore: Why We Sleep by Matthew Walker
Creative's Corner: Our Fake History
You can support BBE at patreon.com/bigbookenergy or through our bookstore at bookshop.org/shop/BigBookEnergyÂ
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Big Book Energy is back from our break with a new theme, new segments, and an awesome new song! You can learn more about what to expect from us this season here!
First full episode of season 2 drops on July 6th.
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For our last episode of season 1, we have a final Thrift Store Find: The Book of Destiny by Carlos Barrios.
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This is the last bonus episode of season 1! We finish up our reading of Tolkien's work with the Silmarillion. This is a teaser of a much longer episode that is only available to our Book Ninja tear Patreon supporters. If you'd like to get access to the full episode and support the podcast head on over to patreon.com/bigbookenergy. Â
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For the last episode of Books We Hate, Paige review's Jennifer's choice: Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte.
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For this episode, Jennifer reviews a Thrift Store Pick: Foundation by Isaac Asimov.
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This week Jennifer review's Paige's Book We Hate Pick: The Emperor's Blades by Brian Staveley.
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This episode is a short teaser of our full bonus episode on Tolkien's The Return of the King. The full episode is only available to our Book Ninja tier of Patreon supporters. If you'd like to get access to the full episode and support the podcast head on over to patreon.com/bigbookenergy. Â
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This week Paige reviews her Thrift Store Pick Chariots of the Gods by Erich von Daniken. Tune in for more Ancient Aliens!
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In this episode of Books We Hate, Paige reviews Jennifer's pick: Dear John by Nicholas Sparks.
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For this episode, Jennifer reviews her Thrift Store Find: The Ghosts of Williamsburg by L.B. Taylor, Jr.
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In this episode of Books We Hate, Jennifer review's Dawnthief by James Barclay.Â
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This episode is a short teaser of our full bonus episode on Tolkien's The Two Towers. The full episode is only available to our Book Ninja tier of patreon supporters. If you'd like to get access to the full episode and support the podcast head on over to patreon.com/bigbookenergy.Â
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For this episode of Thrift Store Finds, Chicken Soup Edition, Paige goes over her choice, Chicken Soup for the Working Soul.
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For this episode of Books We Hate, Jennifer chose In the Lake of the Woods by Tim O'Brien for Paige to read.
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This week Jennifer reviews her Thrift Store Find, Chicken Soup for the Woman's Soul.
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This episode is a short teaser of our full bonus episode on Tolkien's The Fellowship of the Ring. The full episode is only available to our Book Ninja tier of patreon supporters. If you'd like to get access to the full episode and support the podcast head on over to patreon.com/bigbookenergy.
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Tune in for Paige's choice of Book She Hates. Jennifer is reviewing Green by Jay Lake.
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In this episode, Paige discusses her Thrift Store Find The King of Vodka: The Story of Pyotr Smirnov and the Upheaval of an Empire by Linda Himelstein. Tune in to hear Paige and Jennifer talk about Vodka and Russian History while drinking vodka.
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For this episode Paige reviews the Alchemist by Paulo Coelho, Jennifer's pick for her Book she Hates. Tune in to see if Paige feels the same way.
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This week Jennifer talks about her Thrift Store Find The Great Influenza by John Barry. Tune in to learn more about the history of American medicine, viruses, and the Spanish Flu pandemic of 1918.
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Tune in for an episode of Books We Hate. Paige has chose the Mirror Empire by Kameron Hurley for Jennifer to review. Tune in to hear if Jennifer agrees with Paige.
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Tune in for a Bonus Episode on The Hobbit! This is the first in a series on the works of J.R.R. Tolkien.
This is a short preview of a much longer episode. Full episodes are only available to our Book Ninja tier on Patreon, so if you want to listen to the full discussion on The Hobbit and to get access to the all bonus material, head over to our Patreon, which you can find here:
www.patreon.com/BigBookEnergy
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On this episode of Thrift Store Finds, Paige reviews the Celestine Prophecy: An Adventure by James Redfield. Tune in as Jennifer and Paige dive into the nine insights of Redfield's spiritual guide.
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Today's theme is Books we Hate, where Jennifer has chosen a book that she hates for Paige review. Tune in to hear Paige's review of The Stranger by Albert Camus.
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An introduction to Big Book Energy and Season 1. Jennifer and Paige describe the themes for this season as well as announce the focus of the Bonus Episode content.
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For this episode of Thrift Store Finds Jennifer talks about her selection, The Lost Realms by Zecharia Sitchin. Tune in for Jennifer and Paige's analysis of this book and its theories on ancient aliens.
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