Episode three hundred one – part five Jenn was delighted to chat with cult filmmaker Lee Demarbre about his new instant cult classic, ENTER THE DRAG DRAGON. The Blu Ray is out June 11- learn more here! Enter The Drag Dragon (Blu-Ray/DVD) https://mvdshop.com/products/enter-the-drag-dragon-blu-ray-dvdOleh Syosset Public Library - Librarians

Robert Cumming was not the first art critic to be puzzled by Filippino Lippi’s famous 15th century painting Virgin and Child. It depicts Mary cradling the infant Jesus on her knee with two saints, Dominic and Jerome, praying in the foreground. But the picture’s perspective seems all wrong. The hills in the background look as if they might topple ou…

Episode three hundred one – part three Valerie Bauman, an investigative reporter at Newsweek, stopped by to talk about INCONCEIVABLE: SUPER SPERM DONORS, OFF-THE-GRID INSEMINATION, AND UNCONVENTIONAL FAMILY PLANNING is a fascinating and moving work that combines memoir and investigative reportingOleh Syosset Public Library - Librarians

Episode three hundred one – part four Mae Bennett zoomed in to chat about BARELY EVEN FRIENDS – A modern twist on Beauty and the Beast featuring a Plus sized Beauty named Bellamy who takes a job as a contractor to restore an estate under the care of the very grumpy Oliver Killington, the heir to an empire who is very unhappy to share space with any…

Episode three hundred one – part one Amy Dressler talks remixing Shakespeare, as well as all the research that went into writing, HOW TO ALIGN THE STARS, a contemporary twist on much ado about nothing, featuring Beatrice, am Astronomy Professor and her younger cousin Heron, a bride to be on the brink of graduating from the same small college where …

Episode three hundred one – part two Familial trauma haunts Elise decades after her sister Robin disappears. When 35 year old Elise’s ex is murdered in the same location as her sister’s disappearance, Victoria Helen Stone invites us to FOLLOW HER DOWN the trail were she hopes to find some answers to the past.…

Episode three hundred – part four Lauren Martin’s NIGHT OF THE HAWK is a beautiful collection of poems exploring nature, illness, love, loss, and aging. Jenn and Lauren chat about dancing on the boundaries between poetry, wellness, and spirituality. @shewritespressOleh Syosset Public Library - Librarians

Episode three hundred – part one Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Adelettes we bring back this classic episode. Kristin Howell and Lindi Bortney chime in with Sharon to discuss the origins and legacy of The Adelettes, the Syosset High School Barber Shop Music group. Stay tuned for some lovely music featuring several generations of Adelettes …

Episode three hundred – part two Charlotte Bond stopped by to talk about THE FIREBORNE BLADE, a gorgeous historical fantasy novella. Jenn asks about worldbuilding, Beowulf, and how much we want a dragon-cat.Oleh Syosset Public Library - Librarians

Episode three hundred – part three Mister & Mischief (a.k.a. Jeff and Andy Crocker) are the dynamic creative duo behind immersive, interactive experiences like The Apple Avenue Detective Agency, 40 Watts From Nowhere, and Escape From Godot. They chatted with Jessikah & Jenn about creating audience-empowering art!…

Episode two hundred ninety nine – part one Author Elka Ray zooms in to chat domestic suspense, and who would be the first person you’d call if you needed help burying a body. Ray’s A FRIEND INDEED is the page turner you must read!Oleh Syosset Public Library - Librarians

Episode two hundred ninety nine - part fourSara Wolf blends fantasy with scifi in her newest book HEAVENBREAKER a revenge story set against a tournament joust fought with Giant Robots in space! But what really drives this fast paced story into the stars are the unforgettable characters.Oleh Syosset Public Library - Librarians

Episode two hundred ninety nine - part threeJoshua Hull, author of MOUTH and screenwriter of GLORIOUS, stopped by to talk about his work. You can check out GLORIOUS on Shudder, and MOUTH is out now. Check them out!Oleh Syosset Public Library - Librarians

Episode two hundred ninety nine - part twoBill Shea’s A GRANDPA JOE DAY is a gorgeous children’s book about maintaining an optimistic outlook and the special bond between a grandparent and grandchild. Bill stopped by to talk about writing and illustrating this lovely tale.Oleh Syosset Public Library - Librarians

Episode two hundred ninety eight - part threeJenn spoke to Dr. Philip Cioffari-- writing professor and instructor, novelist, and award-winning film writer, playwright, and director. They spoke about the craft of writing, his newest novel NIGHT & ITS LONGINGS, and what you learn from teaching others.Oleh Syosset Public Library - Librarians

Episode two hundred ninety eight - part oneAuthor Nicola Solvinic questions the nature of growing up so close to evil. The Hunter’s Daughter finds “Good Cop” Anna in a world of danger when she must investigate a serial killer whose methods are eerily similar to the patterns of the Forest Strangler. Unbeknownst to Anna’s coworkers? The Forest Strang…

Episode two hundred ninety eight - part fourJenn spoke with Kit Anderson about SAFER PLACES, a gorgeous graphic novel collecting stories about memory, liminal spaces, and small magic.Oleh Syosset Public Library - Librarians

Episode two hundred ninety eight - part fiveSyosset High School Sophomore Grace Liu has written and published a love letter to research. Literally! Grace stops by to chat about RESEARCH TO EMPOWER, a practical research guide written by a student for students.Oleh Syosset Public Library - Librarians

Episode two hundred ninety eight - part twoChristina Henry is back with her own twist on a Gothic Horror novel set during the earlier days of the Covid Pandemic. When Horror lover Harry Adams gets a job cleaning the home of a reclusive director she finds herself and her teenage son wrapped up in a web of murder, lies, and movie props!…

Episode two hundred ninety seven - part one A. Ashley Hoff’s WITH LOVE, MOMMIE DEAREST: THE MAKING OF AN UNINTENTIONAL CAMP CLASSIC is a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the divisive adaptation of Christina Crawford’s memoir detailing her mother Joan’s abuse, and its legacy.Oleh Syosset Public Library - Librarians

Episode two hundred ninety seven - part threeCarley Fortune is back for a second time to speak with Evelyn about her newest novel THIS SUMMER WILL BE DIFFERENT. This is one of Carley's best books and the location at Prince Edward Island makes the book shine even more. Put this book on the top of your summer reads list!…

Episode two hundred ninety seven - part twoJenn sat down with Nancy Chadwick to talk about THE WISDOM OF THE WILLOW, a beautiful book about family, change, and the healing powers of nature.Oleh Syosset Public Library - Librarians

Episode two hundred ninety seven - part fiveJenn was thrilled to talk to Erik Larson, author of some of her favorite books like DEVIL IN THE WHITE CITY and IN THE GARDEN OF BEASTS. Today they chatted about THE DEMON OF UNREST, about the rising tensions in the five months leading up to the American Civil War.…

Episode two hundred ninety seven - part fourEvelyn recently interviewed Abbi Waxman about her latest book, CHRISTA COMES OUT OF HER SHELL which is available now!Oleh Syosset Public Library - Librarians

In the blockbuster movie Gladiator, Maximus is a Roman General betrayed by Caesar’s son Commodus. Reduced to slavery Maximus fights to survive and eventually comes face to face with Commodus once more at the Colosseum in Rome. He has worn a mask to fight but Commodus commands him to reveal his identity. Maximus turns, removes his helmet, and declar…

Episode two hundred ninety six - part twoAllison Winn Scotch’s tenth book, TAKE TWO, BIRDIE MAXWELL, is out! Allison stopped by to chat with Evelyn about this rom-com about grappling with our romantic pasts and finding new love.Oleh Syosset Public Library - Librarians

Episode two hundred ninety six - part threeMike Chen brings us around and around with Carter and Mariana – two time travelers whose lives collide over the explosion of a top secret particle accelerator. Chen joins us to chat Sci Fi, food and love in this delightful novel.Oleh Syosset Public Library - Librarians

Episode two hundred ninety six - part fourTHE EVOLUTION OF ANNABEL CRAIG is an engaging and moving exploration of the 1925 Scopes trial, in which faith, science, and Charles Darwin took the stand. Lisa chats with Jenn about re-telling this story from the perspective of a young Southern woman, whose every belief is challenged.…

Episode two hundred ninety six - part oneRebecca Sugar’s debut novel is a poignant examination of watching those you love get older. With grace, insight, and touching humor, EVERYTHING IS A LITTLE BROKEN invites us to remember, as Leonard Cohen said, “There is a crack, a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in.…

While he may have jumped before he was pushed it was refreshing to hear Humza Yousaf’s speech as he stepped down as First Minister of Scotland. Firstly, he admitted that he had made a mistake and secondly, he said he wasn’t willing to trade his values or principles simply to stay in power. He also told his political opponents he bore them no ill wi…

Episode two hundred ninety five - part threeDebut author Sara Koffi’s WHILE WE WERE BURNING is just the right amount of bonkers in this compelling read about two women from the suburbs of Memphis with a connection to the death of a young black boy – and how they circle one another’s fates speeding towards a conclusion that will blow reader’s minds.…

Episode two hundred ninety five - part fourAnimal Crossing, or Animal Double-Crossing? Australian cartoonist Luke Milton’s debut graphic novel, ANIMALS RULE THIS LAND, is a trippy fever dream of a Saturday Morning cartoon that imagines a rather peculiar end of the world…Oleh Syosset Public Library - Librarians

Episode two hundred ninety five - part oneIn YOU KNOW WHAT YOU DID, author KT Ngyuen brings us a tour of generational trauma as the picture perfect life of Vietnamese American mother Annie (Ahn Le) begins to unravel after the death of her very difficult mother – a former war refugee.Oleh Syosset Public Library - Librarians

Episode two hundred ninety five - part twoJenn sat down with Stacy Stokes to chat about THE DARKNESS RISES, a gorgeous and gripping YA supernatural thriller about a teen with supernatural abilities, and coming to grips with the unintended consequences of our choices.Oleh Syosset Public Library - Librarians

How on earth did St George end up as the patron saint of England? Legend has it that he was born in the third century to Greek Christian parents. A soldier in the Roman army he rose to become a member of the Praetorian guard under Emperor Diocletian but was then martyred for refusing to renounce his Christian faith. He was, apparently, decapitated …

Episode two hundred ninety four - part fourHeather Frese is the author of THE SADDEST GIRL ON THE BEACH. Evelyn speaks with Heather about her coming-of-age novel that takes place on the Outer Banks of North Carolina.Oleh Syosset Public Library - Librarians

Episode two hundred ninety four - part oneToxic female friendships with a bio tech twist! In college, Mary and Elizabeth were inseparable best friends, who just happened to have access to a body switching technology called the Empathizer. But ten years later the women are living very different lives that change on a dime when both the empathizer an…

Episode two hundred ninety four - part three Meghan sat down with author Linda Crotta Brennan to discuss The Selkie's Daughter, a wonderfully imagined children's middle-grade novel set in nineteenth century Nova Scotia. The Selkie's Daughter incorporates folklore and fantasy elements and tells the coming-of-age story of young girl named Brigit and …

Episode two hundred ninety four - part twoNick Medina spins tropes on their head in INDIAN BURIAL GROUND, his next horror novel set on a reservation. But is the true horror supernatural, or is it the day to day impact of generational trauma as experienced by Noemi and her uncle Louie.Oleh Syosset Public Library - Librarians

At the beginning of William Golding’s novel Lord of the Flies a party of school children are stranded on a desert island without any adults. For the first time in their lives, they can do as they please. The prospect of being able to indulge in unbridled freedom brings a previously unknown joy. Sadly, their attempt to build utopia quickly descends …

Episode two hundred ninety three - part oneA SWEET STING OF SALT is a gorgeous queer reimagining of the classic folktale “The Selkie Wife.” Author Rose Sutherland stopped by to talk about this beautiful tale of longing.Oleh Syosset Public Library - Librarians

Episode two hundred ninety three - part twoProlific Author Adrian Tchaikovsky chats about HOUSE OF OPEN WOUNDS, a companion to CITY OF LAST CHANCES, the first book in his TYRANT PHILOSOPHERS series. Tchaikovsky tells us his drive for setting a fantasy book in a medical tent outside the brutal battle lines – as well as his unique perspective on necr…

Episode two hundred ninety three - part threeCarter Wilson takes us on a wild wild in THE FATHER THAT SHE WENT TO FIND, a thriller with an 1980’s setting that brings Penny, a young woman with an amazing intellect running towards a father who left her behind – and running from the trouble she’s found along the way.…

Episode two hundred ninety three - part fourDebut author Rania Hanna joins us to chat Arab Folklore and all the layers to death and grief as explored in her gorgeous novel The Jinn Daughter. You’re going to LOVE this one.Oleh Syosset Public Library - Librarians

Being in the right place at the right time is all it takes to lift someone from obscurity to fame. Take for example Wyckoff van Derhoef. He happened to be in Belfast and needing passage home to New York at the same time the RMS Titanic was preparing to leave for Southampton. Setting sail on 2nd April 1912 the Titanic carried a skeleton crew, a snag…

Episode two hundred ninety two - part oneClare is a serial killer who is grieving her beloved father, the only person who she had ever truly cared about. Author Joanna Wallace discusses how her own feelings of loss helped create Clare and this wild, often darkly funny book.Oleh Syosset Public Library - Librarians

Episode two hundred ninety two - part twoJessikah chats with reluctant novelist Ellen Birkett Morris about BEWARE THE TALL GRASS, a beautifully written story about a mother, a son, and another man’s history that haunts the child’s dreams. Ellen talks about past lives, open minded skepticism, and how motherhood can challenge a marriage as presented …

Episode two hundred ninety two - part fourHiromi Ito’s THE THORN PULLER explores getting older, caring for aging parents, and living on two continents with touching insight and humor. Jenn got to chat with Hiromi and her translator, Jeffrey Angles, about collaborating on this English translation of her novel.…

Episode two hundred ninety two - part fiveAlain Silver and James Ursini, prolific writers and commentators on film history, have given us a fascinating account of the history and making of the iconic noir classic in FROM THE MOMENT THEY MET IT WAS MURDER: DOUBLE INDEMNITY AND THE RISE OF FILM NOIR. They stopped by to talk about writing books, comme…

Episode two hundred ninety two - part threeCiera Burch’s SOMETHING KINDRED is a haunting and beautiful exploration of grief, new love, and growing up with eerie horror vibes. Jenn chats with Ciera about mixing romance and horror, intergenerational trauma, and coming of age.Oleh Syosset Public Library - Librarians