A podcast between two avid readers in which the topics are chosen from the book jar! Episodes are released every two weeks. Send us your topics to have them added to the jar.
…
continue reading
A podcast for avid sci-fi & fantasy readers who want to connect with authors who enjoy books, television, film, video games, anime, and all other forms of nerd entertainment.
…
continue reading
Join author Megan O'Russell in this candid, humor-filled glimpse into the creation of a new book series, starting at page one. You're invited to step into the real-time writing process as Megan weaves fae, shifters, witches, and seers into her latest young adult fantasy novel: Sketchbook of a Wayward Seer. No second drafts allowed. No untwisting love triangles. No bringing characters back to life. meganorussell.substack.com
…
continue reading
Welcome to "The Bookshelf Chronicles," the podcast that takes you on an exciting literary adventure through the world of books! Join us as we dive deep into the pages of captivating novels, explore thought-provoking non-fiction, and discover hidden gems from all genres. Each episode of "The Bookshelf Chronicles" is a delightful journey through the literary landscape, where our passionate hosts bring you engaging book reviews, author interviews, and insightful discussions. Whether you're a de ...
…
continue reading
Welcome to Author's Purpose, where we delve into the minds of authors to uncover the true purpose behind their captivating stories. Join us as we engage in thought-provoking conversations with renowned authors, exploring the depths of their literary creations. In each episode, we bring you exclusive interviews with authors from various genres, ranging from fiction to non-fiction, fantasy to mystery, and everything in between. Our goal is to unravel the underlying motivations, inspirations, a ...
…
continue reading
Welcome to Page by Page: Writing the Book in Real Time. Readers and writers alike are invited to take a look behind the veil as YA author Megan O’Russell creates her newest novel, Sketchbook of a Wayward Seer, one episode at a time. In this week’s episode, we read chapter four! Join us as we explore similarities and differences between this writing…
…
continue reading
1
Deadpool & Wolverine, Alien Romulus, I Parry Everything
1:24:32
1:24:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:24:32
The gang share their latest endeavors in the latest nerdy multimedia, including films like Deadpool & Wolverine, anime like I Parry Everything, books like the Primal Hunter Zogarth, and more. SHOW NOTES: Dungeon of Chance Complete Series Alien: Romulus Star Wars: Outlaws Support the Show.By Stories For Nerds
…
continue reading
1
Books You've Been Avoiding On Your TBR (To-Be Read) Shelf | A Feather So Black, Wheel of Time & Many More
54:34
54:34
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
54:34
This one is dedicated to all the book stacks on all those book shelves just waiting to be read. In this episode, Marissa and Megan uncover their most shameful -- or most interesting -- books on their TBRs that they've been avoiding. From books they didn't even know they owned to books they've been waiting for the perfect moment to pick up, join the…
…
continue reading
Welcome to Page by Page: Writing the Book in Real Time. Readers and writers alike are invited to take a look behind the veil as YA author Megan O’Russell creates her newest novel, Sketchbook of a Wayward Seer, one episode at a time. In this episode, we read chapter three! Join us as we discuss multiple POVs, how our theatre background bleeds into t…
…
continue reading
Welcome to Page by Page: Writing the Book in Real Time. Readers and writers alike are invited to take a look behind the veil as YA author Megan O’Russell creates her newest novel, Sketchbook of a Wayward Seer, one episode at a time. In this episode, we read chapter two! We also discuss choosing a voice for your narrator, aetherions vs. other supern…
…
continue reading
Welcome to Page by Page: Writing the Book in Real Time. Readers and writers alike are invited to take a look behind the veil as YA author Megan O’Russell creates her newest novel, Sketchbook of a Wayward Seer, one episode at a time. In this episode, we finish reading the first chapter, discuss our plans for serial publishing and Kickstarter, and ex…
…
continue reading
1
Climax of SFN's "the Peopling of Eden"
1:05:17
1:05:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:05:17
Time is of the essence as Orpa finds herself trapped in a facility with co-workers expected by an unknown alien species with symbiotic tendencies. SHOW NOTES Gloom Black Myth: Wukong Borderlands Support the Show.By Stories For Nerds
…
continue reading
Welcome to Page by Page: Writing the Book in Real Time. Readers and writers alike are invited to take a look behind the veil as YA Megan O’Russell creates her newest novel, Sketchbook of a Wayward Seer, one episode at a time. Woo Broo is a beer crafted specially for the 2024 Three Rivers Comic Con in Pittsburgh, PA. Read more about the Initiation W…
…
continue reading
1
Biggest Bookish Pet Peeves | A Feather So Black, Wheel of Time & Many More
57:14
57:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
57:14
All the things that make us cringe, gag, and recoil away from a book within an instant. From abhorrent stickers on book covers to the worst plot devices we've ever read, this week Megan and Marissa discuss their biggest book pet peeves. Marissa also shares an embarrassing reader faux pas she committed and Megan pretends she's very much over it. As …
…
continue reading
1
Science Fiction Vs. Fantasy: Which One Is Better?
1:32:41
1:32:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:32:41
The one debate to rule them all, the SFN gang dive into one of the most divisive arguments within the nerd community by comparing the various strengths and popular platforms two of the most beloved genres in storytelling have to offer. SHOW NOTES Shade’s First Rule Deadpool & Wolverine Support the Show.…
…
continue reading
Reading can be a transformative experience, opening doors to new perspectives and insights. Here are ten books that have the power to change your life, each offering profound wisdom, inspiration, and practical advice. The power of books lies in their ability to provoke thought, inspire change, and offer new perspectives. Whether you're seeking pers…
…
continue reading
J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy is a cornerstone of modern fantasy literature, captivating readers with its richly imagined world, compelling characters, and epic narrative. Comprised of "The Fellowship of the Ring," "The Two Towers," and "The Return of the King," the trilogy has become a cultural touchstone, influencing countless …
…
continue reading
"The Four Hour Work Week" is a self-help book authored by Timothy Ferriss, published in 2007. The book has gained significant attention for its unconventional approach to work and life, advocating for lifestyle design and breaking away from traditional work paradigms. Here's an overview of what the book is about: Central Premise The central premise…
…
continue reading
The planet colony Eden is an exciting frontier for xenobiologist Orpa and her crew of fellow science researchers. As tempting as uncovering this new world may be, however, she and her coworkers are all on the side of caution...except for their sniveling Director Gelling. What revelations will Orpa and the team find after their ambitious leader laun…
…
continue reading
1
Reading Challenges: Everything We Love & Everything We Don't | Crossroads of Twilight, Yellowface, Funny Story & More
45:35
45:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
45:35
Anybody up for a challenge? Reading challenges are popular across TikTok, StoryGraph, and pretty much anywhere you find readers. Megan and Marissa give their thoughts on reading challenges – which ones they love and which ones they can't quite get into. Megan compares reading challenges to playing the Sims and Marissa changes her opinion quickly as…
…
continue reading
1
Star War: Acolyte, Dark Matter (2024), Vampire Dormitory
1:19:08
1:19:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:19:08
While the latest Disney installment in the Star Wars franchise is causing quite the stir with some fans, there are still a handful of nerdy stories across the multimedia that are getting well received, including Apple TV's Dark Matter, the Vampire Dormitory anime, and more. NERDY NEWS: Awakening Horde: Shieldwall Academy Book 1(LitRPG) A Quiet Plac…
…
continue reading
1
Let's Talk About BookTok 2.0 W/ Alix Calfa | Sarah J. Maas, Colleen Hoover, Robert Jordan, And More
1:03:32
1:03:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:03:32
Alix Calfa joins us for a surprise guest episode! Marissa and Alix discuss BookTok – and, in fact, all things about books online. The readers tackle discussing good recommendations and poor ones, as well as some of the more popular BookTok books and whether they are worth the read. As always, we start the podcast with some of our more recent reads.…
…
continue reading
Dwarvian warrior princess Madelyn and her band if unlikely misfit companions work together upon finally facing the evil sorcerer, Lord Zenrauch. However, the threat to the world is not exactly what was expected. SHOW NOTES: the Gates of Yoffa the Fae Conspiracy Support the Show.By Stories For Nerds
…
continue reading
1
Our Favourite – And Most Remarkable – Bookmarks | Bookmarks, Notation, Dog-Earring, And More
51:37
51:37
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
51:37
Do you use bookmarks? Marissa and Megan discuss the most remarkable bookmarks they've had over the years. From American one-dollar bills to a leather marker with a flower that seems one petal short, both readers talk about whether or not they use them, what will count as a bookmark, and whether dog-earring is ever an option. We start the podcast wi…
…
continue reading
1
Has Amazon Been Good or Bad for Readers?
1:28:49
1:28:49
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:28:49
It's the 800 pound gorilla of the industry and it's shifted the way we've digested books for nearly 30 years! While no one can deny Amazon's ginormous influence across retail--especially in the realm of reading--has the world's largest online retailer proven beneficial to readers or detrimental? SHOW NOTES: A Knack for Being A Hero Star Wars: Acoly…
…
continue reading
1
Top Tips to Getting Out of A Reading Slump | Book Clubs, Reading Challenges, DNF-ing & More
49:14
49:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
49:14
Slumps suck. Reading slumps extra suck. Every avid reader has been through one reading slump or another and, while sometimes they are inevitable, there are some ways to get through them without losing your mind. Marissa and Megan discuss their experiences with their own reading slumps, and all the top tips they have to prevent them. From reading ch…
…
continue reading
1
The Four Agreements - A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom
6:20
6:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
6:20
The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom" is a profound and influential book by Don Miguel Ruiz, first published in 1997. Drawing from ancient Toltec wisdom, Ruiz presents a code of conduct that can lead to a transformative experience in one's personal and professional life. The book distills this wisdom into four simple yet power…
…
continue reading
Maddy must rise to the occasion when her party must band together in order to thwart off an unexpected threat. As she and the others fight tooth and nail, however, the dwarvian warrior princess grows suspicion regarding one of her would-be companions. SHOW NOTES World of Wreckage: Torth Book 3 Hell Blade 2: Senua's Saga Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga Abby…
…
continue reading
1
Our Top Villains In Literature | Dracula, President Snow, Sauron & More
46:23
46:23
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
46:23
Everybody loves a good villain. From the most sinister non-human entities to the humans we start to empathize with, we've got all the best baddies from books we've read. We start with a classic President Snow and end with an even more classic villain who will suck your blood, and we hit every bad guy in between. We start the podcast with our most-r…
…
continue reading
1
JordanCon, Rebel Moon 2, Apothecary Diaries
1:06:17
1:06:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:06:17
With Raphyel having gone under a medical procedure, the team keeps the EpiXode light with a great nerdy chat discussion. Abby is prepping for the third book launch in her Torth series while Scott gets recognized for his inclusion in an anthology filled with some good company. SHOW NOTES A Hero of A Different Stripe Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes…
…
continue reading
1
Our Favourite Autobiographies & Memoirs | Vivek Shraya, Jennette Mccurdy & More
49:05
49:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
49:05
From the rawest insight into people's lives to illuminating spotlights on important issues, biographies and memoirs can leave a long-lasting impact. In this episode, Marissa and Megan discuss their favourite memoirs and autobiographies. Marissa discusses several dancer and a few artists' memoirs, while Megan talks about reading about therapy and de…
…
continue reading
When an evil sorcerer casts an eternal Winter over the realm, a young dwarvian warrior princess named Madelyn must journey to the ends of the world to bring an end to the dark lord's curse. Accompanied by a rather unorthodox party that consists of an elven mage, human priest, a dark elf ranger, and a friendly orc, can Maddy and the others set aside…
…
continue reading
1
Poetry 101: Top Tips for Getting Into Poetry | Lang Leav, Shakespeare, Dickinson, Plath & More
1:00:18
1:00:18
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:00:18
Welcome to Poetry 101. Marissa is a big poetry buff, and this week we're discussing all our best tips for getting into poetry. Throughout this podcast, Marissa and Megan share their experiences with poems and poetry – and give you all the reasons why you shouldn't be scared of them, no matter what your high school English teacher made you feel. Fro…
…
continue reading
1
X-Men '97, Three Body Problem, Dragon's Dogma, & More
1:31:27
1:31:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:31:27
The past few weeks have offered a plethora of nerd multimedia for the gang, and this nerdy chat covers all of it. X-Men '97, Netflix's Three Body Problem, Capcom's Dragon's Dogma 2, Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, Star Wars: the Bad Batch, Frieren: Beyond Journey's End, Constellation, and there's bound to be even more. So get comfy, because we got a l…
…
continue reading
1
Season 2 Episode 1 - What Comes After by KingEmpo
1:24:43
1:24:43
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:24:43
Some people may be unsure what Author's Purpose is -- at its most basic, podcast-ie form, it is a podcast where I ask authors what is the purpose of their stories. In this episode, KingEmpo and I talk about his novel, What Comes After, which expertly manages to be both dystopian and contemporary. In addition to that, we also share our opinions on t…
…
continue reading
It's nearly been 900 days since the Siege of Leningrad began, but the city's liberation is at hand thanks to Vitali's modified armed tank. He'll have to collaborate with the uptight acting Commander Dubov's lackies, however, and there's no telling if they'll be willing to play nice with his secret project. Will Vitelli be able to find common ground…
…
continue reading
1
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho - Exploring the Timeless Wisdom
6:29
6:29
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
6:29
"The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho is not just a book; it's a journey that explores the essence of life, dreams, and the paths we choose to follow. First published in 1988, this novel has since transcended cultural and linguistic barriers, touching the hearts of millions of readers around the world. Through its simple yet profound narrative, Coelho of…
…
continue reading
1
Best Book Recommendations We've Given Each Other | Iron Widow, Lore Olympus, Throne of Glass & More
59:24
59:24
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
59:24
Will we hurt each other's feelings? You'll have to listen to find out! In this episode of The Book Jar Pod, Megan and Marissa discuss the good, the bad, and the ugly of the books they've recommended to each other over the years. From some classic recommendations like Sabriel and Iron Widow to some newer ones like Emma and Throne of Glass, expect to…
…
continue reading
1
SFN Podcast: Netflix's Avatar, Dune 2, the Perfect Run
1:16:43
1:16:43
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:16:43
The gang has a bunch of nerdy multimedia to entertain them as things warm up for the Spring Season. Raph and Scott both offer insight and dynamic perspectives on Netflix's Live Adaptation of Nickelodeon's beloved Avatar: the Last Airbender series. Erik set sail on his annual Star Trek crews and got to rub elbows with a multitude of Trekkie icons. A…
…
continue reading
1
Let's Catch Up On Our Most Recent Reads! | Silver in the Bone, The Wheel of Time, Cruel Illusions & More
1:14:29
1:14:29
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:14:29
Megan is back! And we have some book talk to catch up. Marissa and Megan go through their most recent reads – all 25 books they've read since they've last met. From Heartstopper and Fly By Night to The Fires of Heaven and The City of Brass, join your fave readers as they rate and discuss all the books they've read to start this year. We end the pod…
…
continue reading
World War 2 Ukranian military engineer Vitali is making the closest thing to a mech suit. While simple in design, it could very well turn the tide of the war for his country during one of its most dire hours. He'll have to face a different sort of battle before he even gets an opportunity to see his mocked-up T-34 tank taken to the frontlines, howe…
…
continue reading
1
Fave Female Characters in Books w/ Alix Calfa & Tay Andresen | The Poppy War, Stormlight Archive, Sabriel & The Hunger Games
50:07
50:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
50:07
Let's have some girl talk. And by girl talk, we're talking about our fave girlies in books. To top it off, Marissa is joined by both Alix Calfa and Taylor Andresen, from our sister podcast, The Queens of Fantasy. The three readers discuss an abundance of amazing female characters they've read in novels. From Sabriel and Katniss Everdeen to the lead…
…
continue reading
1
15 Ways Portugal Inspired The Magic of Harry Potter
6:20
6:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
6:20
The magical world of Harry Potter, created by J.K. Rowling, has captured the imaginations of millions around the globe. Interestingly, Portugal, where Rowling lived in the early 1990s, has left a significant mark on the series. This article explores 15 ways in which Portugal has inspired the enchanting universe of Harry Potter. Hogwarts’ Architectu…
…
continue reading
This Nerdy Chat discussion faces an extremely thin line, given the key different-yet-inevitable-correlation between stories that are designed to help audiences take a break from reality in the form of escapism as opposed to those that have an underlying message concerning society. Show Notes the Recycler's Paradise: Dust of the Gods Suicide Squad: …
…
continue reading
1
Let's Talk About BookTok w/ Alix Calfa! | Twilight, ACOTAR, Sarah J. Maas, Fourth Wing & More
53:11
53:11
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
53:11
Another week, another guest. Alix Calfa, from our sister podcast, The Queens of Fantasy podcast, joins Marissa to discuss a truly industry-changing social media platform: BookTok. Both Alix and Marissa point out the good, the bad, the ugly, and the inspirational aspects of such a whirlwind force as BookTok is. We mention fave creators, fave book re…
…
continue reading
1
Shōgun Nobel by James Clavell - A Timeless Epic of Feudal Japan
6:05
6:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
6:05
James Clavell's 1975 masterpiece, "Shōgun," is a historical fiction novel that transports readers to the turbulent late Sengoku period in Japan. The first installment in Clavell's Asian Saga, this remarkable novel has captivated readers worldwide, becoming a best-seller with over 15 million copies sold by 1990. Its enduring popularity is a testamen…
…
continue reading
The situation is all but dire in 1940s Europe, and Ukranian soldier Vitali has a front row seat to one of mankind's most historical conflicts, World War 2. After losing his commander and being reprehended by the bureaucratic higher ups, Vitali has had it up to here with this terrible war. All he wants to do is be left in peace so he can work mockup…
…
continue reading
1
Your Fave Feminist Reads w/ Taylor Andresen | Mona Eltahawy, Mikki Kendall, Xiran Jay Zhao & More
1:05:44
1:05:44
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:05:44
We have another guest on this episode of The Book Jar Pod: Taylor, from our sister podcast, The Queens of Fantasy podcast. Together, Marissa and Tay discuss a topic close to their hearts: What are some of your fave feminist reads? Taylor starts by recounting some of her most recent reads, and then the two readers dive into the topic. Let us know ho…
…
continue reading
1
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon (Book Review)
6:01
6:01
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
6:01
Ariel Lawhon, celebrated for her expertise in historical fiction, has earned critical acclaim and recognition as a New York Times bestselling author. Her literary works, celebrated for their rich historical narratives, have crossed global boundaries, being translated into various languages. Her novels have garnered prestigious accolades, including …
…
continue reading
1
SFN Podcast: Yu Yu Hakusho, Foundation, Rebel Moon, & More
1:15:02
1:15:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:15:02
The crew returns for its 9th, and final, season of the SFN Podcast :(. The farewell tour starts with the crew catching up on all of the nerdy activities, starting with Abby's release to the second installment in the Torth series, Colossus Rising. The gang had TONS of nerdy items to cover, including: Foundation: Season 2 "All the Skills" by Honour R…
…
continue reading
1
Books & Literature Trivia Contest | Featuring Tay & Alix From the Queens of Fantasy Podcast
1:26:24
1:26:24
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:26:24
It's a crossover episode! We have two fabulous guests from our sister podcast, The Queens of Fantasy podcast, with us and we've decided to use a totally legitimate trivia contest and not-at-all-random scoring system to determine the reader who knows the most chaotic facts. Marissa, Megan, Alix, and Tay all have ten questions to ask and far too many…
…
continue reading
1
2023: A Year In Review | Wrapping Up Our 2023 Best & Worst Reads
1:17:28
1:17:28
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:17:28
It's been one heck of a year! And, we feel like we need to talk about the best – and the worst – books we read this year. So, join us, as both readers recap their year. From the number of books and pages read to the genres that filled those pages, these readers are going over it all – and we're thrilled to have you come along for the ride! We begin…
…
continue reading
1
The Snowball - Warren Buffett and the Business of Life
10:55
10:55
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:55
The world of finance and investing has its fair share of iconic figures, but perhaps none as legendary as Warren Buffett. Known as the “Oracle of Omaha,” Buffett’s life and investment philosophy have become the stuff of legend, inspiring countless individuals to understand the nuances of wealth creation and financial success. In the critically accl…
…
continue reading
1
Godzilla: Minuse One, Baldur's Gate 3, Doctor Who
1:15:30
1:15:30
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:15:30
The 2023 Holiday Season is among us, and that means it's time for the SFN Crew to wrap this year up with one final EpiXode before they go on their Holiday Break. The authors leave with some exciting news with personal project updates, and the entire squad offers a plethora of nerdy items to keep you busy until the next meetup. Abby was a guest on t…
…
continue reading
1
Our Favourite Unproblematic Authors | R.F. Kuang, Xiran Jay Zhao, Chloe Gong & More
1:05:21
1:05:21
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:05:21
Megan and Marissa switch up their topic to talk about some amazing authors who also seem like great human beings. From calling out racism and misogyny and talking about hard-to-talk-about topics to donating time, money, and resources to charity, these authors are some of our favourites to read and recommend – on and off the page. Inspired by some r…
…
continue reading