Reading Glasses Podcast: Episode 415 Summary
Title: How Tall is that Ship? Journey Books + Madeleine Rue!
Release Date: June 12, 2025
Hosts: Brea Grant and Mallory O’Meara
Introduction to Journey Books
In this episode of Reading Glasses, hosts Brea Grant and Mallory O’Meara delve into the captivating theme of journey books—stories that center around characters embarking on significant journeys, both physical and emotional. This episode not only features recommended reads but also includes an insightful interview with guest author Madeleine Rue, who discusses her latest work.
Current Reads
Brea Grant's Current Book:
Brea shares her recent read, Clean by Aaliyah Trabuco Zaran, translated by Sophie Hughes. She describes it as a compelling narrative about a young woman who transitions from the countryside to city life as a housemaid. The story unfolds as a mystery, revealing deep insights into the protagonist's experiences and treatment within a wealthy family.
"She has a real interesting insight into the world and just told in this really beautiful first-person perspective."
— Brea Grant [01:42]
Mallory O'Meara's Current Book:
Mallory is engrossed in A Letter from the Lonesome Shore by Sylvie Cathall, the sequel to Letter to the Luminous Deep. She praises its asexual representation and the romantic yet cozy relationship between a marine biologist and a scholar in a submerged future world.
"It's romanticized. It's like the sweetest, most magical, dark academia, cozy."
— Mallory O’Meara [02:48]
Book Recommendations: Characters on a Journey
Brea Grant’s Recommendations:
-
Migrations by Charlotte McConaughey
Brea highlights this near-future thriller about a woman tracking migrating terns amidst ecological decline. The protagonist's journey on a fishing ship reveals both environmental struggles and personal emotional turmoil."It's sort of a howdunit. Who done it?"
— Brea Grant [01:40] -
I'm Starting to Worry about this Black Box of Doom by Jason
A personal favorite, this novel follows an Uber driver tasked with transporting a mysterious black box without knowing its contents, exploring themes of misunderstanding and the impact of the internet on personal connections. -
Survivor Song by Paul Tremblay
A post-apocalyptic tale where a pregnant woman races against a virus reminiscent of rabies, blending personal drama with survival instincts."I love this type of plot. It's the epitome of a personal story set against something big happening."
— Brea Grant [23:28]
Mallory O’Meara’s Recommendations:
-
Marrow Thieves by Cherie Dimaline
A young adult post-apocalyptic novel where indigenous people are hunted for their bone marrow to restore the ability to dream, blending survival drama with speculative fiction. -
The Cautious Traveler's Guide to the Wastelands by Sarah Brooks
An 1800s historical fantasy about a train journey through a magical and perilous Siberian landscape, featuring multiple protagonists with secrets and agendas."It's such a great amalgamation of fantasy, sci-fi, horror, and history."
— Mallory O’Meara [16:53] -
Pieces by Helen Oyeyemi
A surreal journey of a newlywed couple on a magical train honeymoon, exploring themes of relationship dynamics and isolation in a hauntingly beautiful setting."It's very queer as well. Just a banger all around."
— Mallory O’Meara [24:37]
Listener Feedback and Community Stories
Libby Account Troubles:
Listeners shared their experiences and tips regarding managing Libby accounts, especially in situations involving unwanted access. Brea and Mallory provided practical advice and shared a humorous anecdote about acquiring special library cards with a unique design.
"You can block someone on Spotify."
— Mallory O’Meara [05:42]
Library Book Signings:
Allison, a librarian, recounted a story about a patron who attended a David Sedaris tour, had a library book signed, and returned it, emphasizing the joy and community spirit in such interactions.
"So I say get the library book signed. Having the author dedicated to the library will help reduce the chance of the book being stolen."
— Bria Grant [07:30]
Interview with Madeleine Rue: Exploring A Girl Walks into the Forest
Guest author Madeleine Rue returns to discuss her new book, A Girl Walks into the Forest. The conversation delves into the book's dark fairy tale elements, character development, and its critique of traditional fairy tales.
Book Overview and Themes:
Madeleine describes her book as a dark fairy tale that challenges traditional narratives by presenting a protagonist who confronts both personal and societal challenges.
"It's a dark fairy tale journey story in every sense."
— Madeleine Rue [33:00]
Inspirations and Influences:
She draws inspiration from Angela Carter’s The Bloody Chamber and integrates elements from various folklore, particularly Baba Yaga, to create a nuanced character who embodies both nature and monstrosity.
"There's an element of Bluebeard in this, alongside the Baba Yaga stuff."
— Madeleine Rue [48:00]
Character Development:
Madeleine emphasizes the protagonist's transformation from seeking validation based on beauty to embracing her own power and identity, highlighting themes of liberation and self-discovery.
"She has to pick a side and by being exposed, she wakes up to the evil of these people."
— Madeleine Rue [44:06]
Solving a Reader’s Problem: Navigating Triggering Content
A listener named Abraham shared his struggle with triggering content in V.E. Schwab’s books, leading to panic attacks and anxiety. Brea and Mallory addressed his concerns with empathy, emphasizing the importance of following professional mental health advice.
Response Highlights:
- Acknowledgment of the listener's feelings and the seriousness of his experience.
- Encouragement to prioritize mental health and adhere to therapist guidance.
- Reassurance that books remain available and can be approached at a safer time.
- Suggestions to explore other forms of art if reading becomes overwhelming.
"We cannot help you with your brain. You never push through a mental health crisis just to read a certain book."
— Mallory O’Meara [56:18]
Conclusion
Episode 415 of Reading Glasses offers a rich exploration of journey-themed books, insightful author interviews, and a compassionate response to listener challenges. Brea Grant and Mallory O’Meara continue to provide valuable content for book lovers, fostering a supportive and engaging literary community.
Notable Quotes:
- "Who done it?" — Brea Grant [01:40]
- "It's romanticized. It's like the sweetest, most magical, dark academia, cozy." — Mallory O’Meara [02:48]
- "We cannot help you with your brain." — Mallory O’Meara [56:18]
For more details, book recommendations, and to join the Reading Glasses community, visit Reading Glasses Podcast or follow them on Instagram at @ReadingGlassesPodcast.