Episode 110 - Legendborn, by Tracy Deonn

We’re exploring the Arthurian legend through a southern Black lens with Legendborn, by Tracy Deonn! Join 16-year-old protagonist Bree as she enters an early college program at UNC Chapel Hill and discovers more than one type of magic is waiting. She learns about her dead mother’s secrets, her own latent abilities, and the pull of various Hot Boys (both golden and broody). This was our first time experiencing this incredible book and we wholeheartedly recommend it - pick up a copy and join us!

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Shondaland interview with Tracy Deonn

Our Susan Cooper episodes - Over Sea, Under Stone and The Dark is Rising

Episode 109 - A Conspiracy of Kings, by Megan Whalen Turner

We continue Megan Whalen Turner’s impeccable Queen’s Thief series with A Conspiracy of Kings! We discuss the appeal of sweet Sophos as a protagonist, the portrayal of slavery within fantasy series, and whether the gods are Just Jerks (copyright Madeleine). This is a long one, but in between the sister squabbling, points are made! The main point being that we could talk about MWT’s work for the rest of our lives and still have so much to explore.

Thanks to all our listeners who requested The Thief in the first place, and supported us in continuing on with the series! We will be finishing it in its entirety (if the sun doesn’t burn out first). That’s the Dragon Babies promise.

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Adorable Sophos and Eddis fanart by Emily B. Martin

Episode 108 - Wyrd Sisters, by Terry Pratchett

It’s back to Discworld with Wyrd Sisters, by Terry Pratchett! We join the titular trio of Nanny Ogg, Granny Weatherwax, and Magrat Garlick as they meddle their way across space and time (within reasonably witchy limits, of course). Review your Shakespeare, work up your best lil ghosty sounds and make sure you’re in good standing with the Fool’s Guild - then join us.

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The excellent audiobook cover:

Episode 107 - The Headless Cupid, by Zilpha Keatley Snyder

We’re so excited to round out the ZKSHT (Zilpha Keatley Snyder Holy Trinity) with The Headless Cupid. Along with The Egypt Game and The Witches of Worm, this book developed Grace’s little brain into a spooky kid mystery machine. Madeleine’s jonesing for a trip to the Winchester Mystery House and is very upset with Amanda; we’re both reminiscing about the power of playing pretend. Join in the glory of ZKS’ unparalleled work - articulating children’s inner monologues with such specificity and zero condescension.

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The first edition cover, and some of Alton Raible’s magnificent illustrations.

Episode 106 - Mossflower, by Brian Jacques

It’s Badgerin’ Time. We return to the joyous, violent, and feast-laden world of Redwall with Mossflower, by Brian Jacques! Grace breaks down the reasons why this is her favorite of his works, we continue the great “Humans in Mossflower???” debate, and Bella and Boar become our gods. Grab your candied chestnuts and join us.

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Some wonderful Redwall coverage by The Toast.

The Redwall Cookbook by Brian Jacques and Christopher Denise

Depressing Redwall Netflix adaptation news

I knew everyone loves cottagecore but may I present to you a marvelous subset... crittercore pic.twitter.com/foYNf3fkOK

— kei 🔜 fwa ✨ (@faintsun) May 11, 2020