Episode Summary: Ep 453: How to Host a Cozy Reader Retreat

Date Released: November 5, 2024

In episode 453 of "What Should I Read Next?", host Anne Bogle welcomes guest Dana Reams to delve into the enchanting concept of hosting a Cozy Reader Retreat. This episode offers invaluable insights for book lovers seeking to create a warm, inviting space for fellow readers to gather, share, and immerse themselves in literature.

1. Guest Introduction: Dana Reams (03:51)

Anne Bogle introduces Dana Reams, a stay-at-home mom from Southern Indiana with a passion for reading, baking, and community building. With two young daughters and another on the way, Dana balances her love for literature with family life and hobbies like learning new languages, specifically Spanish and Swahili.

Dana Reams (04:03): "I have always loved to read for as long as I can remember. I am a third-generation fan of Anne of Green Gables. I enjoy a wide range of genres, from historical fiction to fantasy, that immerse me in different worlds and offer seamless learning experiences."

2. Dana’s Reading Life and Book Clubs (05:01)

Dana shares her lifelong passion for reading, highlighting her involvement in the Modern Mrs Darcy Book Club since 2019 and her own in-person book club for fellow moms. These clubs serve as vital spaces for connection, fostering a sense of community among busy parents.

Dana Reams (05:53): "I started my own little in-person book club with other moms. We meet every other month, sometimes combining playdates with book discussions. It’s been wonderful to connect with other readers in person."

3. Concept of the Cozy Reader Gathering (07:38)

Dana presents her idea for a Cozy Reader Gathering, designed to create a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere for readers to focus on their literary interests. Scheduled for later in November, the event aims to combine comfortable reading spaces with engaging activities.

Dana Reams (08:00): "I would invite readers over to my home, create a welcoming atmosphere with snacks like pumpkin scones and hot beverages, and set up cozy reading nooks filled with candles and blankets."

4. Creating the Perfect Atmosphere (09:04)

Dana envisions various cozy elements to enhance the reading experience, including:

• Decor: Table runners made from old book pages, inspired by nostalgic books like The Babysitter's Club.
• Activities: Bookish crafts such as Harry Potter coloring books and DIY sprayed book edges.
• Reading Spaces: Multiple nooks with comfortable seating, perfect for individual or group reading.

Dana Reams (08:53): "I made table runners out of old book pages. It was a bit sad to take them apart, but it added a unique touch to the decor."

5. Activities and Interaction (11:09)

Dana outlines a blend of structured and spontaneous activities to foster interaction and creativity among attendees. This includes crafting sessions, communal reading, and opportunities for personal reflection.

Dana Reams (11:38): "We might start with a craft session, like making bookmarks, and then invite everyone to find a cozy spot to read. Those who want to chat can stay together at the table."

6. Book Recommendations for the Gathering (18:57)

Dana shares a curated list of cozy reads perfect for the retreat, encompassing both fiction and non-fiction:

a. Fiction:

• "Witch Hat Atelier" by Komome Shinohara (18:57): A middle-grade manga featuring Coco, a girl who dreams of learning magic through an art-based magic system.

  Dana Reams (18:57): "The magic system is enchanting, based on drawing with pens and sketchbooks, making it a visually immersive experience."

• "Grace of Wild Things" by [Author Unspecified] (25:08): A fantasy retelling of Anne of Green Gables, blending nostalgic elements with magical adventures.

• "Emily Wilde's Encyclopedia to Fairies" by Heather Fawcett (22:46): A fantasy exploring nature and academia through the protagonist’s research on fairies, rich with watercolor imagery.

• "The Teller of Small Fortunes" by Julie Leong (31:30): A cozy fantasy about Tao, a fortune teller who offers small, everyday fortunes to avoid heartbreaking predictions.

b. Non-Fiction:

• "Bird by Bird" by Anne Lamott (21:18): A reflective guide on writing that emphasizes how writing enhances reading and encourages mindfulness.

  Dana Reams (21:18): "Anne Lamott's hospitable voice and practical writing assignments make it an approachable and inspiring read."

• "Devotions" by Mary Oliver (27:35): A poetry collection celebrating nature and everyday miracles, perfect for communal reading and creative activities.

  Dana Reams (27:35): "Mary Oliver's poems inspire reflection and a deeper appreciation for the small wonders of life."

7. Hosts’ Additional Recommendations (30:26)

Emma and Anne add their own cozy book suggestions, expanding the pool of perfect reads for the gathering:

• "Legends and Lattes" by Travis Baldry (30:26): A high-fantasy, low-stakes story about an orc opening a coffee shop, blending whimsical elements with heartwarming interactions.

• "Your Guide to Not Getting Murdered in a Quaint English Village" by Maureen Johnson (35:44): A tongue-in-cheek guide to cozy mysteries, ideal for adding humor and light-heartedness to the retreat.

8. Final Thoughts and Anticipation (39:23)

Dana expresses her excitement for the upcoming gathering, hoping it will inspire others to host similar events. She emphasizes the importance of creating spaces where readers can escape, connect, and rejuvenate.

Dana Reams (39:23): "I'm excited that it's going to happen and I hope everyone has a great time. It would be wonderful to see others host their own reading parties inspired by these books."

Key Takeaways:

• Creating Atmosphere: Utilize cozy decor, comfortable seating, and thematic elements to enhance the reading experience.
• Engaging Activities: Incorporate crafts and communal readings to encourage interaction and creativity among participants.
• Curated Reads: Select a mix of fiction and non-fiction that aligns with the cozy theme, offering diverse yet complementary reading experiences.
• Community Building: Foster a sense of belonging and connection among attendees, allowing for both individual reflection and group discussions.

Notable Quotes:

• Dana Reams (08:00): "Create a welcoming, relaxing atmosphere where people can focus on their reading interests for a day."
• Dana Reams (18:57): "The magic system is enchanting, based on drawing with pens and sketchbooks."
• Dana Reams (21:18): "Anne Lamott's hospitable voice makes writing approachable and inspiring."
• Dana Reams (39:23): "I hope everyone has a great time and maybe inspires others to host their own reading parties."

This episode serves as a comprehensive guide for readers looking to organize their own cozy reader retreats, blending practical tips with inspirational book recommendations to create memorable literary gatherings.