Op-eds, book recommendations, and quick explainers. Check back here for the latest bookish conversations.
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High vs. Low Concept Literature: Choosing your next read
Discover the world of high-concept and low-concept storytelling, and how knowing the difference can guide your reading choices based on your mood.
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Dialogue-Heavy Books: Engaging, or a writer’s crutch?
Is it possible to have too much dialogue in a book? Let’s talk about why excessive chatter might signal weak storytelling.
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On Profanity in Books: Mature or immature?
Some book reviewers leave low ratings because of profanity. But is profanity in literature even a bad thing? Let’s dive in.
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2023 Fall Reading Recommendations
Book recommendations for these different fall vibes: Magical Horror, Gothic and Atmospheric, Whimsical Halloween, Cozy and Witchy, and Historical Fall.
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How to Become a Reader in the Post-COVID Era
Here are six tips for becoming a reader in today’s day and age.
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Redemption Arcs: Why they’re compelling
The redemption arc is one of the most satisfying plotlines in today’s era. But why? What makes these stories and characters so compelling? Let’s dive in.
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Character Stakes: The real reason we read any story
Every good story has stakes. But what really drives the story are the personal, emotional character stakes. And that’s why I don’t like quest stories.
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Narrative Voice: A book’s biggest strength or biggest weakness
“Narrative voice” can make or break a book. But what is it, and why does it matter to readers? Let’s dive in.
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Long-Term Reading Slumps: What do they actually mean?
Reading slumps that last for long periods of time might have some underlying causes. Let’s talk about them, and what you can do.
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9 Reasons to Use Your Local Library (Besides Free Books)
Your local library is so much more than a book repository. Here are 9 reasons to use this vital community service.
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Extended Epilogues and Bonus Scenes: Slice of life snoozefests
Bloomsbury and the upcoming release of House of Flame and Shadow has the fandom riled up, so let’s discuss extended epilogues and bonus scenes.
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Manacled, and the Gift of Fan Fiction
I dipped my toes into fan fiction for the first time, and I’ve come away with an entirely new perspective. Let’s talk about it.
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Embracing the Joy of Cozy Reading: A retreat for the soul
Let’s explore the art of cozy reading, the benefits, and how it can be an essential act of self-care in our fast-paced lives.
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My Top 10 Reads So Far in 2023
We’re officially halfway through 2023, so out of the 42 books I’ve read in the last six months, here are my top 10 so far.
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DNF: When to give up on a book
Is it okay to stop reading a book? Here’s a couple signs to look for that tell you it’s time to DNF and move on to something else.
