Today the gals celebrate National Poetry Month by sharing bits and bobs from some of their favs.  Poetry titles shared today: “Wild Geese” – Mary Oliver “Mountain Dew Commercial Disguised as a Love Poem” – Matthew Olzmann “A Primer” – Bob Hicock “Dirtbag” – Leigh Lucas “How to Like It” – Stephen Dobyns “What I Didn’t Know Before” – Ada Limon “Unchopping a Tree” – W.S. Merwin “Digging” – Seamus Heaney “I Sing the Body Electric” – Walt Whitman “Darkling I Listen” – Adam Clay “Funeral Blues” – W.H. Auden “Try to Praise the Mutilated World” – Adam Zagajewski “Nostalgia” – Billy Collins “Feet” – Ross Gay “Maple Valley Branch Library, 1967”

Today the gals share some ideas about how to break your reading slump, and offer up some titles that helped them get back into reading.

Olivia and Manda discuss their recent reads during today's episode. Remember, if you're looking for personalized recs, send an email to: podcast@troypl.org

Today the gals host Danielle (from Digital Services) for a robust discussion about the inspiring and controversial photographer, Sally Mann, and her 2025 book, Art Work: on the creative life.

A girl and her pig, a spider, and so many more memorable characters are up for discussion today, as Olivia and Manda chat about the beloved children's classic, Charlotte's Web, by E.B. White. Did it hold up to the test of time for our discerning librarians? You'll just have to listen and see!

Today the gals and Keegan (from Youth Services), will tell you how ardently they admire and love Jane Austen's classic, Pride and Prejudice! Happy (belated) 250th, Jane!

Today Olivia and Manda chat with local author, Tina Battle, about her newest children's book, Adventures in Troy with Betty and Buddy Beaver. The book celebrates all things Troy, following protagonists Betty & Buddy as they waddle their way to many local attractions, including the LIBRARY! Copies are available for purchase locally at 86 Plastic or on Amazon. For signed copies of the book, email Tina at: tinambattle@gmail.com

Olivia and Manda are joined by Community Engagement's, Hannah and Kit, today for a discussion of Maggie O'Farrell's 2020 novel (now a major motion picture), Hamnet. Buckle up, buttercups, because you're in for a chat featuring the plague, Willy Shakes, and more!

Today the gals share their thoughts on the new film adaptation of Emily Bronte's, Wuthering Heights, as well as dig into some of their literary dislikes. It's the confessional episode, and they hope they don't yuck anybody's yum.

Join the gals today as they do an author spotlight on kids author and illustrator, Grace Lin. Books mentioned in the show today include: Story Telling Math series including, The Last Marshmallow (board books) The Ugly Vegetables (picture book) Dim Sum for Everyone! (picture book) A Big Mooncake for Little Star (*Manda misspoke and said "little sister"; picture book) Once Upon a Book (picture book) Ling & Ting (early reader series) Where the Mountain Meets the Moon (book 1 of series; tween/middle grade) Chinese Menu: the history, myths, and legends behind your favorite foods (nonfiction)

Today the gal pals share their recent and current reads (and a couple of streaming shows). Below are all titles discussed: Books discussed: The God of the Woods, Moore Bog Queen, North (Manda mentioned, The Windeby Puzzle, Lowry, as a kids readalike to this title) Four Eyes (sequel is, Pizza Face), Ogle The Secret Astronomers, Walker We Fell Apart (We Were Liars series, #3), e. lockhart Fly On the Wall, e. lockhart (title from Olivia’s story about her Teen Librarian days) The People We Hate at the Wedding, Ginder Replaceable You: adventures in human anatomy, Roach Dolores Claiborne, Stephen King TV shows discussed: Arrested Development Pluribus

Today the ladies discussed readalikes for the show (and book!) everyone is talking about: Heated Rivalry. Titles discussed include: Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Saenz Red White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston I Kissed Shara Wheeler by Casey McQuiston If This Gets Out by Sophie Gonzales & Cale Dietrich Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid The Prospects of KT Hoffman The Long Run by James Acker Check, Please!: Book 1, Hockey (and it’s sequel, Check Please: Book 2, Sticks and Scones), Ngozi Ukazu  Like Real People Do: a novel, E.L. Massey Him (book 1), Us (book 2), Epic (book 2.5), Sarina Bowen & Elle Kennedy  All's Fair in Love and Field Hockey, Kit Rosewater Rookie Move (Brooklyn Bruisers #1), Sarina Bowen

Due to the recent success of the film, K-Pop Demon Hunters, the gals thought it was high time to offer our listeners some K-Pop inspired reading recs! Buckle up, buttercups, and be prepared to impress your friends (and, dare we say, kids) with this K-Pop inspired reading list!  Titles discussed today: K-pop Confidential, Stephan Lee I’ll Be the One, Lyla Lee XOXO, Axie Oh  Somewhere Only We Know, Mauren Goo I'll love you forever: notes from a K-pop fan, Giaae Kwon Skylar and the K-Pop Principal, Luan Goldie  Make a Move, Sunny Park!, Jessica Kim Where the Mountain Meets the Moon (trilogy), Grace Lin Meesh the Bad Demon, Michelle Lam When You Trap a Tiger, Tae Keller BTS: K-pop's biggest headliners, Leslie Holleran

The girls round out the year by sharing their personal favorite reads of 2025. See below for the booklist.  Olivia's recs: Atmosphere, Taylor Jenkins Reid Heart the Lover, Lily King  The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny, Kiran Desai All the Way to the River, Elizabeth Gilbert This American Woman, Zarna Garg Death of the Author, Nnedi Okorafor  Back After This, Linda Holmes Swept Away, Beth O’Leary Manda's recs: No More Chairs, Gill Everyday Bean (Tiny Bean's Big Adventures, Book #1), Graegin Frank’s Red Hat, Avery Max in the Land of Spies (book 1); Max in the Land of Lies (book 2), Gidwitz We Were Liars (book 1), Family of Liars (book 2), We Fell Apart (book 3), E. Lockhart The Only One Left, Sager I’ll Be Gone in the Dark: one woman’s obsessive search for the Golden State Killer, McNamara The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse (book 1), The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, the Horse, and the Storm (book 2), Charlie Mackesy

Today Olivia and Manda reflect on the cinematic gifts left to the world by the genius, Rob Reiner. Along with each movie mentioned, the girls offer book recs for your reading delight (list below). Happy Holidays!  When Harry Met Sally: Heartburn, Nora Ephron The People We Meet on Vacation, Henry (really any Emily Henry book) Normal People, Rooney Rachel Incident, O’Donoghue Eleanor and Park, Rowell One Day, Nicholls   Misery Dolores Claiborne, Stephen King Dream Girl, Laura Lippman Notes on a Scandal, Heller Tender, McKeon   Stand By Me Something Wicked This Way Comes, Bradbury The Night Circus, Morgenstern The Outsiders, Hinton Okay For Now, Gary D. Schmidt Pop AND Schooled (both were mentioned, but really any Gordon Korman book)   This is Spinal Tap A Fine Line Between Stupid and Clever: The Story of Spinal Tap Spinal Tap 2: the end continues (movie rec) AC/DC: Maximum Rock & Roll: The Ultimate Story of the World’s Greatest Rock-and-Roll Band, Engelheart I am Ozzy, Osbourne Hammer of the Gods: The Led Zeppelin Saga, Davis The Life of Brian (movie rec) Monty Python bios/memoirs: Always Look on the Bright Side of Life: A Sortabiography, Eric Idle So, anyway…, John Cleese The Pythons Autobiography, The Pythons French Exit, deWitt The Princess Bride Tress of the Emerald Seas, Sanderson Kill the Farm Boy, Dawson As you wish: inconceivable tales from the making of the Princess Bride, Elwes Magicians, Grossman

Today the gals are joined by fellow TPL staffer, Hannah, for a discussion of every high school's favorite assigned book, The Great Gatsby. O

Looking for some great gift ideas? You've come to the right place! The girls share ideas for all ages, babies to adults. In case you were walking/driving/jogging and couldn't write down the titles, the gals discussed:  When Pigs Fly: a song for dreamers, Sandra Boynton The Book of Candles: eight poems for Hanukkah Laurel Snyder, illus. by Leanne Hatch The 13th Day of Christmas, Adam Rex Once Upon a Kwanzaa, Nyasha Williams The Amazing Generation, Jonathan Haidt and Catherine Price The Stolen Songbird Judith Eagle Brownstone, Samuel Teer and Mar Julia This American Woman: A One-In-A-Billion Memoir, Zarna Garg The Life Cycle of the Common Octopus, Emma Knight  Turning to Birds: the power and beauty of noticing, Lili Taylor Lifeform, Jenny Slate The Third Gilmore Girl: a memoir, Kelly Bishop

Today the gals dig into Agatha Christie's novel, The Body in the Library--the second book to feature beloved sleuth extraordinaire, Ms. Marple!

Today's quick episode is in response to a request from our listener, Eliza. Don't forget, if you would like us to give you recommendations, shoot us an email at: podcast@troypl.org If You Lived During the Plimoth Thanksgiving, by Chris Newell, illustrated by Winona Nelson Keepunumuk: Weeâchumun's Thanksgiving Story, written by indigenous authors: Danielle Greendeer (Mashpee Wampanoag), Anthony Perry (Chickasaw), Alexis Bunten (Unangan/Yup'ik), and illustrated by Garry Meeches Sr. (Anishinaabe) Thank You, Sarah: the woman who saved Thanksgiving, by Laurie Halse Anderson, illustrated by Matt Faulkner Balloons over Broadway: the inspiring true story of the puppeteer of Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, written and illustrated by Melissa Stewart Shark Lady: The True Story of How Eugenie Clark Became the Ocean's Most Fearless Scientist, by Jess Keating, illustrated by Marta Alvarez Miguens Whoosh! Lonnie Johnson’s Super-Soaking Stream of Inventions, by Chris Barton, illustrated by Don Tate Dancing Through Space: Dr. Mae Jemison soars to new heights, by Lydia Lukidis, illustrated by Sawyer Cloud Saving American Beach: the biography of African American environmentalist MaVynee Betsch, by Heidi Tyline King, illustrated by Ekua Holmes A Line Can Go Anywhere: The Brilliant, Resilient Life of Artist Ruth Asawa, by Caroline McAllister illustrated by Jamie Green Kahoʻolawe : the true story of an island and her people, by Kamalani Hurley, illustrated by Harinani Orme Fairytales/Folktales native to a culture!

Fellow TPL staffer, Kit, will be joining the girls today to discuss Alison Bechdel's, Fun Home: a family tragicomic, a graphic memoir.

In honor of Halloween, the gals are joined by Director, Emily Dumas, to discuss 1999's The Mummy starring Brendan Frasier and Rachel Weiss. Enjoy this spoooooky episode!

Whether you're a Swiftie or not, Olivia and Manda will provide you with loads of great book recommendations inspired by each of Taylor Swift's albums. So get your Swiftie swag on, and hunker down for an episode that will give you all the good vibes.

Be prerpared to learn about beauty standards, Adirondak chairs, and more, as the gals discuss John Green's newest nonfic title, Everything is Tuberculosis, with Keegan from Youth Services.

Join Olivia and Manda as they go through some of their fall favorites, titles that will get you ready for shorter days and longer nights!

A cozy mystery, safe enough for your Gran;  WWII-era Alan Gratz; Kate Beaton for all ages--today's show has something for everybody! Buckle up Buttercups, because the gals are here to share loads of book recs!

Today Olivia and Manda tackle Willa Cather's, My Antonia, a story set in the American Midwest during the late 19th/early 20th century. This book was the final installment of our summer 2025 book club; if you missed the other books covered, go back and listen to: Summer Book Club: The Joy Luck Club Summer Book Club: The Color Purple

Cassie (from the Adult Dept.) joins Olivia and Manda today for a discussion of books that take place at boarding schools. Many of the books discussed appear on this list: https://www.goodreads.com/list/tag/boarding-school

The ladies are joined by TPL Director, Emily Dumas, to share some great back-to-school picture books. As promised in the episode: Chrysanthemum, Kevin Henkes Wemberly Worried, Kevin Henkes The Invisible Boy, Ludwig Each Kindness, Woodson On the Day You Begin, Woodson The Pigeon Must Go to School, Mo Willems Is Your Buffalo Ready for Kindergarten?, Vernick We Don't Eat our Classmates, Higgins If You Ever Want to Bring an Alligator to School — DON'T!, Parsley Fish Don't Go to School, Pilutti Yeti is Not Ready for School, Carter Kitty vs. Kindergarten, Freeman

Today Olivia and Manda tackle Amy Tan's, The Joy Luck Club, a story focusing on themes of mothers and daughters, the immigrant experience, and hope. Don't forget to read Willa Cather's, My Antonia, in preparation for next month's final installment of TBWL's Summer Reading series!

Olivia and Manda are joined by Hannah (from Community Engagement), for a rousing conversation about nonfiction books that are so fascinating that they read like fiction. Books chatted about today include: Stiff: the Curious Life of Human Cadavers, Mary Roach Sharks Don't Sink: Adventures of a Rogue Shark Scientist, Jasmin Graham Soul of an Octopus, Sy Montgomery Unbroken: a World War II story of survival, resilience, and redemption, Laura Hillenbrand Nobody Will Tell You This But Me, Bess Kalb Lab Girl, Hope Jahren Good Talk, Mira Jacob Fun Home, Alison Bechdel  Persepolis, Marjane Satrapi The Devil in the White City, Eric Larson The Poisoner's Handbook, Deborah Blum The Ghost Map, Steven Johnson Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, Rebecca Skloot

Today Manda and Karen (from Adult Services) discuss Lois Duncan's 1970s teen thriller, and the 1997 movie adaptation, of I Know What You Did Last Summer. This episode might have you looking over your shoulder, or into the trunk of your car...

Join Olivia and Manda as they celebrate the beloved classic movie, Back to the Future, in honor of it's 40th anniversary this summer.

Today Olivia and Manda share their favorite books featuring exotic (or not too far flung) locales. We'll spin the globe, and where it stops, nobody knows!

Olivia and Manda are joined by repeat guest, Angie, for a robust discussion of Alice Walker's The Color Purple, as part of the podcast's Summer Reading series. Be sure to read or listen to, The Joy Luck Club, in preparation for July's Summer Reading title!

We sit down with author Kayla Ancrum to ask her about her writing, her life, and her writing life.  Learn more about Kayla and her most recent book, The Corruption of Hollis Brown, by visiting her website.    K. Ancrum, is an author of award winning contemporary YA notably THE WICKER KING, DARLING and the critically acclaimed ICARUS. K. is a Chicago native passionate about diversity and representation in young adult fiction. She currently writes most of her work in the lush gardens of the Chicago Art Institute.

Today the ladies talk about beloved author, and honorary Midwesterner, John Green! They'll discuss his books, especially Looking for Alaska (no spoilers!)--as it turns 20 y.o.--and his cultural impact.

We ask author Katie Spina five questions about her writing life, the books that shaped her, and the library memories she holds dear.  Ms. Katie is an award-winning kidlit author who writes stories for kids where finding your fit means trusting in who you are. She's an avid reader that loves to talk about all sorts of books to kids of different interests. Learn more at her website, katiespina.com.

Be prepared to jot down all of the summer themed recommendations the girls are throwing your way today! Olivia and Manda will also reveal a timely secret you won't want to miss!

Today Olivia and Manda do an author/illustrator spotlight on the much loved, Eric Carle!

Today Olivia and Manda celebrate three years of the podcast w stats, quizzes, book recs, and lots of laughs.

Mariel and Olivia welcome author Daniel Lavery to the studio to talk about Daphne Dumaurier's Rebecca.    Read more about Daniel and his recent novel, Women's Hotel (available at TPL and wherever you acquire books) here.

Today Olivia and Manda will be having a tuff discussion about Greasers, Socs, and S.E. Hinton's timeless classic, The Outsiders.

Olivia and Manda are joined by Karen (Adult) for a second look at Bridget Jones. If you haven't already listened to our episode: "Bridget Jones's Diary," from April 2024, you might want to go back and give that a listen first! Today the ladies cover the latest movie released in the Bridget Jones-verse (as well as the book version of), Bridget Jones Mad About the Boy.

Cassie (from Adult) joins Olivia and Manda to share some recent reads. Looking for a book rec? We got you covered!

Today Olivia and Manda cover a slew of topics, and as always, share what they've been reading. Buckle up, Buttercup!

Pin on your Elven cloak, pack your lembas bread, and join Olivia and Manda as they journey into Middle Earth. The ladies do an author spotlight of J.R.R. Tolkien, as well as share  facts about Tolkien's books and the LOTR movie trilogy! We hope you find this episode as "precious" as we do...

From ugly-crying moments in Wicked to the Manhattan Project, today Olivia and Manda weave across mediums and decades, while they share their thoughts on their recent reads and recent movies.

Get your overflowing pot of pasta, and hunker down while Olivia and Manda discuss the famous and beloved children author and illustrator, Tomie dePaola!

Join us to figure out what Biographia Literaria is, and what is included on Olivia's and Manda's lists. What's on your list? (This is a moldy-oldy episode from a year ago, that somehow missed posting).

Join Olivia and Manda as they say hello to 2025 by sharing their favorite books from 2024. We ended the old year grateful for all of our listeners, and wish you all a very safe and happy new year full of books!

Happy Holidays! We're gifting you this bonus episode! So, get your wand, broom, and owl ready for today's discussion of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. Olivia and Manda are joined by OG listener, Angie, for a discussion of both the first book and film in the Harry Potter franchise.

Mary from Circ joins us for a discussion about Jennifer Egan's 2012 serialized Sci-Fi story, "Black Box." We put on our college-y English lit thinking caps, and try to determine what makes something literary fiction, and if the story is a metaphor about something other than spies!

Looking for unique gifts for your best guys, gals, and pals? Olivia and Manda are here with a list of great books to gift your friends and loved ones this holiday season. Happy Holidays!

Join hosts, Olivia and Manda, as they talk all things audiobooks.

Manda, Emily, and Olivia gather 'round the cauldron to stir up some spooky conversation about Stephen King and The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon.

Today Olivia and Manda welcome TPL patron, Lisa, for a discussion of David Sedaris' book, Me Talk Pretty One Day. Join us and decide for yourself, if Sedaris really is the most Gen X writer out there.  Looking for book recommendations? Go to troypl.org/podcast and scroll down to submit your request. We will feature suggestions on an upcoming episode.

"It begins with a character, all I can do is trot along behind him trying to put down what he says and does.” -William Faulkner Today it's just Olivia and Manda as they delve into favorite characters they've met in books.

Today we're rewarding you with a BONUS EPISODE! We're here to deliver lots of book recs for our listener Eliza. If you'd like personalized recommendations for yourself or someone you love be sure to visit troypl.org/podcast to submit a request. And as always, happy reading.

Avoid the Trunchbull; commune with insects; step into a famous chocolate factory, and more! Today we're joined by TPL patron and member of TPL's Books & Brews Book Club, Cassie, for a discussion of all things Roald Dahl.  TPL catalog -- Roald Dahl materials for checkout/hold "Yes, Roald Dahl was a bigot. But that’s no excuse to re-write his books" by Francine Prose   "Roald Dahl’s Books Are Rewritten to Cut Potentially Offensive Language" by Derrick Bryson Taylor   "A Rosier View of Roald Dahl" by Alexandra Jacobs

This episode we're feeling all the feels as we delve into this kids' classic with our buddy (and repeat guest!), Cassie.

Your doting hosts Manda and Olivia (and every other librarian on the planet) are very busy during the summer, so the podcasts are coming sporadically at best! Thanks for your patience with us, dear readers, as we take a break to attend to our other librarianly duties. In the meantime, here's a little check-in from us where we discuss some of the books we're reading and enjoying this season. xo!

Join us as we explore the life and works of the awesome author, illustrator, and advocate, Gyo Fujikawa. If you've never heard of her, you've come to the right place.  The biography we mention on the show is It Began with a Page: How Gyo Fujikawa Drew the Way, written by Kyo Maclear and illustrated by Julie Morstad.

Get ready for some tween drama, listeners-- this episode, we're revisiting the Baby-Sitters Club franchise! Emily, Library Director, and Lauren, Head of Digital Services, join Manda and Olivia to determine whether or not the series holds up.    Click here for a list of books discussed on the show.    Want your own personalized book recommendations? Submit your request here, and Manda & Olivia will pick some great reads just for you in a future episode.

Jump in your pickle-shaped car and drive down to the busy, busy podcast platform of your choice to hear us talk about the life and books of Richard Scarry!

Need some reading recommendations? Your friendly personal librarians have you covered. This is what we're reading in April 2024! .   Click here for a list of books discussed on the show.    Want your own personalized recommendations? Submit your request here, and Manda & Olivia will pick some books just for you in a future episode.    Happy reading!

Friends, whether you're in the mood for a turkey curry buffet or a piping hot bowl of blue soup, we have you covered! Today we're talking all things Bridget Jones. Tune in to hear what our hosts made of the book, the movie, and the incomparable character who made us all want to start a diary.

In this first installment of a brand-new series, we're looking at the life and art of Virginia Lee Burton! Burton was a popular picture book author and illustrator. Tune in to learn more about her and the Arts & Crafts movement that inspired her art.

In this freewheelin' discussion, Manda and Olivia talk about the books they're reading and loving right now.    Click here for a list of books discussed on the show.

Fraudsters, hucksters, thieves, and rogues! Today we're talking about all the anti-heroes who fascinate us, looking at books and documentaries such as The Big Short, My Friend Anna, Bad Blood, The Tinder Swindler, and more.  Joining us is Scott Wyckoff from Walsh College and Claire Mahler from 86 Plastic.  Stay sharp out there!

Homage, reimaginings, retellings that aren’t quite retellings. Whatever you call it, we’re talking about it today on the podcast with Mariel from Youth Services.  Click here for a list of books discussed on the show.    Writing in the Shadow of a Masterpiece: On Homage by Margot Livesy

Daring escapes, complex revenge plots, swashbuckling adventurers, France! This week, we're discussing The Count of Monte Cristo. Special guests Keegan (Head of Youth Services) and Scott from Altair join us to revisit this thrilling classic.    Scoop about an upcoming series.

As we dive into the new year, Manda and Olivia look back on the three books that had the biggest impact on their lives. Which books would you choose? Send your titles in to podcast@troypl.org-- we'd love to hear from you.

An objective and all-inclusive list of the best books of 2023, chosen by Manda and Olivia! Nothing is missing and every book is perfect.  Here's to a bookish and beautiful 2024!

Books make the best gifts, and librarians Manda and Olivia are here to recommend some winners for your loved ones this holiday season. Settle into your favorite armchair with a lovely cup of tea and tune in to hear about some fab reads.

As we take a break for the holidays, we thought this would be a good time to revisit one of our favorite episodes-- Daisy Jones & the Six.  See you in a couple of weeks with new bookish holiday content. Dream big, little bird!

Grab your beaker, your spatula, and your talking dog-- today we're talking about the hit book and TV series, Lessons in Chemistry! Do our hosts think it's worth the hype? Tune in to find out.

Grab your black cat, adjust your witch hat, and make sure your button eyes are securely sewn into place-- in honor of Halloween, we're discussing all things Neil Gaiman. Join us as we reflect on three of Gaiman's greatest hits:  Coraline, The Graveyard Book, and The Ocean at the End of the Lane.

In honor of the movie's release, Kate from Youth Services joins our hosts to look at David Grann's Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI. What makes this book great, and do we expect greatness from the film? Tune in to find out.

Grab your Faygo pop and your Better Made chips-- today we're talking about all of our favorite Michigan-made-media!  Our guest today is local author Andrew Collard-- learn more about him and his award-winning collection, Sprawl, here.

Shari Pawlus, Principal of Hill Elementary, and Stephan Henning, Assistant Principal at Larson Middle School, join Manda and Olivia to talk about all things picture books. Tune in if you want to discover some beautiful books while learning about what it means to be a school principal.

Grab your stage makeup, your character shoes, and your copy of the Scottish Play-- today we're talking about all things community theater with our friends from the Ridgedale Players, Sandra and Scott! Manda and Olivia ask the tough questions-- who picks the shows and how do they choose? Who should audition? What if someone is shy but wants to be involved? Is community theater really a community? Tune in to find out.  This episode focuses on Escanaba in Da Moonlight by Jeff Daniels, which opens at the Ridgedale Players on September 15. Click here to grab your tickets.  Happy reading and break a leg!

Manda and Olivia are back with some more recommendations for our listeners! Pull up a chair and take notes, darling listeners-- it's time to add some new titles to your TBR list.  Click here for a list of books discussed on the show.  Click here to submit your own listener request. You might hear it in a future episode!

Grab your low-rise jeans, your sliving gloves, and the nearest chihuahua-- today we're talking about Paris: The Memoir by Paris Hilton! Elizabeth, Manda, and Olivia talk about this fascinating (and often quite dark) autobiography, tackling topics such as the troubled teen industry, media coverage of female pop icons, and what it was like growing up in the early 2000s.  ** Content warning-- Paris: The Memoir deals with many troubling topics, including physical and sexual abuse. While our hosts do not delve into these topics in detail during the show, this episode may not be appropriate for all listeners.**

Dr. Dipesh Navsaria--a pediatrician, public health professional, and cohost of the Reach Out and Read podcast-- joins our hosts to revisit Paradise Lost by John Milton. Will Manda and Olivia overcome their prejudice against super old books English teachers made them read long enough to have an interesting discussion? Tune in to find out! Click here to learn more about the work Dr. Navsaria does to help children and communities flourish!

Welcome to the very first Hot Reads episode, where we dive into a book that reflects a timely issue in the culture. This week, we're discussing Two Degrees by Alan Gratz. Middle Grade readers know that Gratz does not shy away from hot topics-- in this novel, he tackles climate change.  Click here for a list of books discussed on the show.

This week, Manda and Olivia are responding to listener requests! Our hosts will be sharing their favorite reads with their favorite listeners, from ikigai to high fantasy. At the request of one of our readers, no bodices were ripped in the making of this episode.    Click here for a list of books discussed on the show. Happy reading!  Click here to submit your own listener request. You might hear it in a future episode!

Grab your psychic log and a hot cup of diner coffee-- today we're revisiting Twin Peaks with Mariel from Youth Services!    Further Reading Olivia mentions an article she'd read on the show-- click here to read "The Oldest Story: Toward a Theory of a Dead Girl Show" by Alice Bolin.

Jeff Marraccini, Chief Information Security Officer at Altair and member of the Friends of the Troy Public Library Board, joins our hosts to revisit Octavia E. Butler's classic sci-fi novel, The Parable of the Sower. Tune in to hear their conversation about climate fiction and Butler's lasting literary legacy.    Click here for Jeff's expert list of science fiction recommendations.  Click here to learn more about the Friends of the Troy Public Library.

Grab your magic action figure and your coolest new hoodie-- today we're talking about the hit graphic novel/TV series, American Born Chinese! Spoiler alert: we liked it.  Click here for a list of books discussed on the show.

Manda and Olivia are back to tell you what to read! We don't call it bossy, we call it "public librarianship," and it's going to blow your mind.  Click here for a list of books discussed on the show.  Still not sure what to read? Click here to tell us a little about what you're in the mood for, and Manda and Olivia will pick a book just for you on the air.

Now that Succession has wrapped up, we're getting nostalgic for some old-school high-stakes finance stories. So grab your Rolodex, your briefcase, and your bags of money and join us as we revisit the 1987 classic, Wall Street.  Our absolutely fabulous guess this time around is Scott Wyckoff from Walsh College, who kindly helps two baffled public librarians understand new things about the world of sales and finance.  Click here for a list of books discussed on the show, including some of Scott's favorite sales books.

Set fire to your pointe shoes, my friends, we're talking about the 2000 dance movie, Center Stage! Library Director Emily Dumas returns, this time with her sister Mary in tow, to examine the cultural impact of this movie and so many other great dance movies. Tune in as we ask ourselves: does this movie hold up?  Need something good to read? Click here to tell Manda and Olivia a little bit about your reading preferences, and they will recommend some great books to you in a future episode.

Join us as we revisit the literary legacy of the one, the only, Judy Blume. Karen from Adult Services visits to dissect classics such as Freckle Juice, Wifey, Then Again, Maybe I Won't, and of course, Are You There, God? It's Me, Margaret.  Whether you've been a Blume stan for years or are just now getting into her writing thanks to the recent documentary Judy Blume Forever or the movie version of Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret, we'd love for you to join us as we talk all things Blume.  Click here for a list of books discussed on the show.  Not sure what to read? Click here to ask for a book recommendation from Manda and Olivia.

Our very first requests-only episode is here! Listeners asked for book recommendations, and we came through. Tune in to add some new books to your TBR list.  Need something good to read? Click here to tell Manda and Olivia a little bit about your reading preferences, and they will recommend some great books to you on a future episode of The Books We Loved.  Click here for a list of the books discussed on the show.

May the force be with you as you embark upon our Star Wars episode featuring library patron and Star Wars expert, Michael! Tune in to learn about everything from George Lucas's contentious relationship with his fans to the origin of the term "space opera."  Need something good to read? Click here to tell Manda and Olivia a little bit about your reading preferences, and they will recommend some great books to you on a future episode of The Books We Loved.

Blair from Digital Services joins our hosts to revisit M*A*S*H! Tune in to hear them discuss the popular film, the even more popular TV show, and the book that started it all.

Gather round with your favorite farm animals to listen to Vicki from Kiwanis in Troy revisit All Creatures Great and Small by James Herriot. Our hosts discuss animal stories, nostalgia, and the importance of gentle stories during difficult times.  Click here to learn more about all the great work Kiwanis Troy is doing in our community.

Join us as we discuss Daisy Jones and the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid! Elizabeth joins our hosts to talk about the book, the TV show, and our favorite musical media. Stay solid and dream big, little bird.  Click here for a list of books discussed on the show.

Sweet sassy molassy, we're talking about the 2014 film Vampire Academy! Eric and Cassie from Adult Services join Manda and Olivia to dissect this critical and box office flop to ask themselves-- why is it so fun to watch "bad" movies?

Grab your favorite digging shovel and get your lizard-repellant ready-- this week, we're talking about Holes by Louis Sachar! April, president of the Friends of the Troy Public Library, joins Manda and Olivia to talk about great and terrible movie adaptations, neo-Westerns and middle grade fiction, and the quizzical history of Shia LaBeouf. Don't miss it!    Click here to learn more about the Friends of the Troy Public Library.

Listen up, lovers-- it's the Valentine's Special! In this bonus episode, Manda and Olivia share their favorite books in these four swoony categories:  Romantic Love Love Gone Wrong Self Love Family/Friendship Love Tune in to add a bunch of new titles to your TBR list!   Click here to find a list of books discussed on the show.

Movie sequels are *not* always terrible, and we have your proof right here. Nicole and Elizabeth join our hosts to share their favorite movie sequels of all time while asking themselves: what makes a good sequel?  What is YOUR favorite movie sequel of all time? Write in to podcast@troypl.org to let us know!

The age-old controversy rears its ugly head: do you pronounce the K in Knuffle Bunny by Mo Willems? Assistant City Attorney Julie joins Manda and Olivia as they battle it out while asking themselves, does this beloved picture book series stand the test of time?  Click here to learn more about the Mailbox Mysteries program.

Get in, loser, we're talking about Mean Girls! Liz Karg, owner of the BIBBGY Coffee franchise in Troy, will be joining us to discuss this, the most fetch of films. Thank you Drew from Digital Services from joining us as well.    Click here for a list of books discussed on the show.

Grab your poisoned goblet, your fencing sword, and the nearest farm boy-- today we're talking about Princess Bride! It's literally everyone's favorite movie! Becky and Cassie joined us to revisit this classic and ask ourselves--does it stand the test of time?  Click here for a list of books discussed on the show.

Trade your blah Abnegation robes for a sweet leather jacket from Dauntless-- today we're talking about the Divergent series by Veronica Roth! Allyson Leach from Troy Recreation joins us to revisit the series and ask, does this book stand the test of time?  Click here to learn more about all the cool programs offered through Troy Recreation.  Click here for a list of books discussed on the show.

It's the holiday season, and here at the library, we believe books make the best gifts of all. Manda and Olivia have challenged each other to come up with great recommendations for all types of readers you may have in your life, including:  1. Your 4th grader who reads at a high level but isn't ready for mature content 2. Your friend who loves scammer stories like Anna Delvy and Elizabeth Holmes 3. Your reluctant reader student who wants to try a fantasy series 4. Your sister who is obsessed with Gilmore Girls And many more! Tune in to celebrate the year with us and add a bunch of great books to your list. Happy holidays!  Click here to find a list of books discussed on the show.

You thought spooky season was over, but you were absolutely wrong! Karen from Adult Services joins us this week to revisit the W.I.T.C.H series by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor, alongside some other favorite 90s horror titles. Because we always like to keep you guessing, we're focusing on the third book in the series, The Witch Herself, a fringe favorite that may or may not have stood the test of time. Tune in to find out, if you dare...  Click here to find a list of books discussed on the show.  Can't find your favorite obscure YA horror series in the collection? Mel.org will be your new best friend! Click here to learn how you can order books from any library in Michigan to be sent directly to your library.

Run a comb through your titian hair and hop in your shiny blue convertible-- we have a mystery to solve! Manda and Olivia are joined by Margaret from TPL's Administration Office to investigate the puzzling question: Margaret loved the Nancy Drew series when she was young, but does that love hold up? Tune in to find out!  Click here to find a list of books discussed in the show.

Lock your doors, get out your night light, and triple check the back seat of your car-- we're discussing Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark by Alvin Schwartz! Library Director Emily Dumas joins Manda and Olivia to revisit this creepy and controversial series and ask themselves: does it hold up?  Click here to find a list of books discussed in this episode.  Click here to read "Oh, Susannah," one of the stories discussed in the show.  Happy Halloween, friends!

Throw on a pair of embarrassing jean shorts and fill your backpack with every classic in the collection-- this week we're talking about Gilmore Girls! Joining Manda & Olivia are Drew from the Digital Services Department and Erin, a Troy patron who attended a TPL Gilmore Girls Trivia Night years ago and has been our friend ever since! Our hosts loved Gilmore Girls in their youth, but what will they think of it now?    Click here to learn more about Bed and Barkfest, Erin's amazing business!  Click here to learn more about checking out mobile hotspots.

Step up with your hungry moose, your deserving porcupine, and your nine favorite baked goods-- we're revisiting Crockett Johnson's Harold and the Purple Crayon! Bob Bruner, Assistant City Manager of Troy, loved this book once, but what will we make of it now?    Click here to find a list of books discussed in the show.

Gather 'round with your cauldron, your spellbook, and your friendly familiar-- this week, we're discussing The Witch of Blackbird Pond with Cassie from the Adult Services Department! Cassie loved this book when she was young, but what will our hosts make of the book today?    Click here to find a list of books mentioned in the show.  Click here to learn more about the Experience Kit collection.

Grab your bright red wig and your secret pen camera and join us as we revisit the TV show Alias. Sam, a member of our Digital Services Department, loved this show once-- what will our hosts make of it now?  Click here for a full list of books discussed in this episode.  Learn more about the TPL Memory Lab here.

Can you hear that? The waves crashing on the shore? The wild dogs howling? This week, we're discussing Scott O'Dell's Island of the Blue Dolphins with our Head of Digital Services, Lauren Arnsman! Lauren loved it once, but how do our hosts feel about it now?  Click here to learn more about Hoopla and Libby, two of TPL's glorious e-libraries.  Click here to learn more about the true story behind the book.  Click here to find a list of books discussed in the show.

In this episode, Manda and Olivia are joined by Nicole Armstrong, an artist, performer, and marketer extraordinaire, to discuss the Disney classic, Beauty and the Beast. All three hosts loved the film in childhood, but does it hold up?  Click here to find a list of books featured in this episode.  Tie your napkin 'round your neck, cherie, and let's begin!

In this (the very first!) episode, Manda and Olivia chat about the classic picture book, Where the Wild Things Are, written by Maurice Sendak. Manda loved this book once, but does it hold up? Listen to find out!  Click here to find a list of books Manda and Olivia talked about in the show.  Let the wild rumpus begin!