Reading Glasses Podcast: Episode 390 - 2024 Challenge Wrap Up + Next Year’s Challenge!
Release Date: December 19, 2024
Hosts: Brea Grant and Mallory O’Meara
Introduction
In Episode 390 of Reading Glasses, hosts Brea Grant and Mallory O’Meara delve into a comprehensive wrap-up of their 2024 reading challenges while unveiling the exciting lineup for the 2025 challenges. This episode is a treasure trove for avid readers, offering insights into trending genres, personal reading journeys, and the vibrant community that shapes the podcast.
Current Reads
Bria on "Nightmare Before Christmas"
Brea begins by sharing her current read, "A Rails and Romance" by Sarah Ratch, narrated by Ellis Evans. The novel reimagines a world where major holidays like Christmas and Halloween are governed by royal families. The protagonist, Cole, struggles with familial expectations and his bisexual identity, leading to unexpected romantic entanglements.
"It's like Nightmare Before Christmas in book form, with Cole being the black sheep who ultimately finds his true identity and love."
[00:37] - Brea Grant
Mallory on "The Village Library Demon Hunting Society"
Mallory discusses her latest read, "The Village Library Demon Hunting Society" by CM Wagoner. She describes it as a delightful blend of "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" and "Murder, She Wrote," following librarian Sherry Pink Whistle as she unravels a series of supernatural murders in her quaint town.
"It's a cozy mystery that takes a hard left turn into horror, and I loved every moment of it."
[03:04] - Mallory O'Meara
Listener Feedback
The episode features heartfelt feedback from listeners, highlighting effective strategies to overcome book hangovers:
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Cleansing the Story-Focused Brain
Aaron shares his method of alternating between audiobooks and non-story podcasts to reset his mind."Changing my listening focus to a non-story podcast like Reading Glasses helps me reset before diving into my next audiobook."
[05:24] - Mallory O'Meara -
Writing Book Reviews Before Starting New Reads
Erin emphasizes the importance of debriefing a book through reviews to retain thoughts before moving on."I try to make sure I get my thoughts out before I move on to my next read because once I'm engrossed, I'm unlikely to revisit the previous one."
[05:52] - Mallory O'Meara -
Revisiting Old Favorites
Alex recommends downloading bonus content from favorite indie authors as a palate cleanser."I often download bonus epilogues to revisit between books, especially when my unread list is overwhelming."
[06:55] - Mallory O'Meara
Additionally, Alex shares his tip on switching formats to alleviate book hangovers:
"I switched from ebook to audio after a book hangover and found a fresh way to enjoy the story again."
[06:58] - Bria Grant
2024 Reading Challenges Completion
Debut Novel
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Bria: "I read 'Sharks in the Time of Saviors' by Kawhi Strong Washbourne, which made me appreciate debut authors even more."
[16:21] - Bria Grant -
Mallory: "I enjoyed 'Letter to the Luminous Deep' by Sylvia Cathron, a standout debut that I believe will be in my top books of the year."
[16:47] - Mallory O'Meara
Book from a Non-Binary Author
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Bria: "I read 'Homesick Stories' by Nino Cipri, which inspired me to explore more of their work."
[17:39] - Bria Grant -
Mallory: "I delved into 'Lakelore' by Anna Marie McLemore, seamlessly supporting non-binary authors."
[17:18] - Mallory O'Meara
Book Set in a Country You've Never Visited
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Bria: "Reading 'Once There Were Wolves' by Diana Gabaldon motivated my trip to Scotland, making the experience immersive and meaningful."
[18:13] - Bria Grant -
Mallory: "I explored 'Upsea' set in Jamaica and 'Whale Fall' set in Wales, broadening my geographical literary horizons."
[18:21] - Mallory O'Meara
Buzzy Book of the Year
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Bria: "I tackled 'House of Shadow and Flame' and noticed how buzzy books dominate conversations, especially those like Sarah J. Maas's works."
[20:17] - Bria Grant -
Mallory: "I read 'Exhibit' by Ro Kwan, enjoying the prestige of reading a critically acclaimed book."
[19:44] - Mallory O'Meara
Cozy Book
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Bria: "I immersed myself in 'Welcome to the Hyeonum Dong Bookstore,' a serene narrative about starting a bookstore in Korea."
[21:18] - Bria Grant -
Mallory: "I explored 'Space Hotel' by Grace Curtis, pushing the boundaries of cozy by delving into cozy sci-fi."
[21:58] - Mallory O'Meara
2025 Reading Glasses Challenge Announcement
Brea and Mallory enthusiastically unveil the 2025 Reading Glasses Challenge, designed to push readers beyond their comfort zones and explore diverse literary landscapes. The challenge comprises ten book-related tasks and accompanying activities:
Book Challenges:
- Read a Honker: Tackle a book with 500+ pages.
- Oldest Book on Your TBR: Dive into the longest-standing title on your To-Be-Read list.
- Epistolary Novel: Experience the unique storytelling of a novel written as letters or diary entries.
- A Science Book: Choose a nonfiction book focused on scientific topics.
- Award-Winning Book by a Person of Color: Select a recognized work authored by a person of color from any year.
Activity Challenges:
- Pick a Book Based on the Title: Let the title guide your reading choice.
- Read a Book Slowly: Extend your reading pace over a month or more.
- Subscribe to a Library Newsletter: Stay updated with your library's latest offerings.
- Make a List of Your Top 10 Books of the Year: Reflect on your reading journey.
- Two-Person Book Club: Engage in a book discussion with a friend.
"This challenge is meant to push you and help you grow as a reader. Think of us as your personal book coaches."
[37:06] - Mallory O'Meara
The hosts encourage listeners to email their completed challenge forms by January 8th for a chance to win exclusive prizes, including a No Pressure Reading Journal and personalized book recommendations.
Community and Conclusion
Brea and Mallory express profound gratitude to their Reading Glasses community, acknowledging the support from listeners and active members of their Facebook group. They emphasize the importance of community-driven challenges and the shared love for diverse literary experiences.
"Next episode is our big best of the year episode. You're such a wonderful community, and we appreciate you all so much."
[44:08] - Mallory O'Meara
They also highlight their Void Merch Store, inviting listeners to explore and support the podcast through various merchandise offerings.
Finally, Brea and Mallory remind listeners to rate and review the podcast on their preferred platforms, underscoring how reviews significantly impact the show's reach and growth.
"If you like the show, please rate and review us on the podcast listening app of your choice. It really makes a difference."
[46:14] - Mallory O'Meara
Notable Quotes
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"If you're embarking on the Reading Glasses Challenge, email your completed forms by January 8th to be eligible for our exciting prizes."
[37:13] - Brea Grant -
"Reading is not just about the books; it's about understanding ourselves and our evolving tastes."
[26:34] - Mallory O'Meara -
"The trend towards niche genres and specific tropes is a delightful response to the vague jacket copy we've seen in recent years."
[15:22] - Mallory O'Meara
Final Thoughts
Episode 390 of Reading Glasses serves as both a reflective journey through the past year's reading accomplishments and a forward-looking invitation to embrace new challenges. Brea Grant and Mallory O’Meara expertly blend personal anecdotes, listener interactions, and community spirit, making this episode a must-listen for book enthusiasts eager to expand their literary horizons in 2025.
Stay Connected:
- Email: readingglassespodcast@gmail.com
- Instagram: @ReadingGlassesPodcast
- Merch Store: Void Merch Store
- Newsletter Signup: Link available in show notes.
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Thank you for listening to Reading Glasses, a Maximum Fun Network podcast where passion for reading meets community camaraderie.