Episode 124 - Trickster's Queen, by Tamora Pierce

We finally finish a series! Trickster’s Queen brings the many threads of political intrigue loose in the Copper Isles to a satisfying (if predictable) conclusion. We discuss the coziness of a perfect fantasy regime change and how overly rosy depictions of righted systemic injustices both help and harm the readers. Perfect spy blobs, spice intolerance, and so, so many reports to write - a little of something for everyone.

Be sure to listen to our Trickster’s Choice episode before this one, we cover the series’ worldbuilding in depth (this ep is more focused on narrative structure and characterization).

Thanks to everyone who has requested we finish this duology!

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Current edition cover:

Episode 123 - Westmark, by Lloyd Alexander

Westmark has it all - political intrigue, long cons, a dashing leader of the revolution, and two months in a garret writing other people’s letters. We discuss Lloyd Alexander’s fast-paced opening to the Westmark trilogy and why it feels like classic fantasy in spite of its lack of true fantasy elements. Join us in breaking down Theo’s soft boy protagonist appeal, the power of an irrepressible urchin, and the bad monarchies of life and literature. Count Las Bombas is offering you an elixir, drink it all up!

Thanks to all the listeners who have requested Westmark!

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Cover from our childhood edition

Episode 122 - Deltora Quest, by Emily Rodda

We covered the first two books of Emily Rodda’s Deltora Quest series, The Forests of Silence and The Lake of Tears! Deltora brings out the best in us; we rave about the impeccable art, wild pacing and grotesque monsters as we travel the kingdom searching for hidden gems. Scholastic book fairs, reading positions we’ve aged out of, fights about Beyoncé - this episode has it all. Join us!

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The Dragons of Deltora Adventure Game

Deltora Quest Anime

Unhinged monster art by the brilliant Marc McBride:

Episode 121 - Race to the Sun, by Rebecca Roanhorse

Welcome to Middle Grade March! This episode, we’re following siblings Nizhoni and Mac Begay as they save their dad from monstrous coal exec Mr. Charles. They discover their similarities to the Hero Twins of Navajo legend and explore their burgeoning abilities through increasingly challenging trials. Grace and Madeleine discuss preferred middle school-age magical weapons, the power of a snarky little brother, and just how many pastas can be combined in a single dish. We also examine the ways this book is controversial, share the opinions of Navajo/Diné scholars and consider ways we can be respectful readers while honoring lines of disclosure.

Join us!

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NOT RECOMMENDED: Rebecca Roanhorse's RACE TO THE SUN by Michael Thompson

The Sci-Fi Author Reimagining Native History by Lila Shapiro

‘The Elizabeth Warren of the Sci Fi Set’ - Author faces criticism for repeated use of tribal traditions by Acee Agoyo

Rebecca Roanhorse on Which Aspects of Diné Culture are Featured in Trail of Lightning by Stubby / Reactor Mag

Grace's Reading Corner - Grendel, by John Gardner

A special lil episode on the enigmatic Grendel, by John Gardner! After covering The Snow-Walker’s Son and considering ancient Nordic literary monsters, Grace was compelled to revisit this darkly comedic retelling of Beowulf from his foe’s perspective. Joining her is Ranae Hanson, author, activist, and top-notch mother-in-law. Curl up in your watery cave and join us!

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First edition cover featuring Emil Antonucci’s exceptional illustration: