The Novel Tea

Once There Were Wolves by Charlotte McConaghy: instinct and monsters

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Shruti and Neha discuss Once There Were Wolves by Charlotte McConaghy, a story of a young woman trying to reintroduce wolves into the wild in the Scottish Highlands, only to find a darker side of the town that has troubling echoes with her own past. We discuss the story through the themes of instinct, villainy, and monsters. We also share some context on real-world conservation efforts, and get into the subgenre of tragedy porn (or misery lit).

Links:

Interview with Charlotte McConaghy

Shelf Discovery & Books Mentioned

Popular Trauma Culture by Anne Roth

It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover

Island of the Sea Wolves [Netflix]

Miracle Creek by Angie Kim

The Women by Kristin Hannah

A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara

Stolen by Ann-Helén Laestadius

If you would like to get additional recommendations, analyses, and behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free email newsletter on Substack.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Conversation: Alli Hoff Kosik on influencers, gossip, and the online world in books

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Author Alli Hoff Kosik joins us to discuss her new book Too Blessed to Stress, a novel following four Christian influencers as they navigate their online lives and deal with private struggles becoming public.

We talk about communication and the internet as tools of power, how gossip can be wielded for good and for evil, and the ways social media has begun to appear in novels in a variety of ways. And, of course, we share tons of book recommendations as we talk all about how Too Blessed to Stress is in conversation with other books, media, and popular culture.

This is a spoiler-free discussion (with very minimal discussion of plot and characters) so dive in - whether you read the book and loved it, or have never heard of it until now!

Books and Media Mentioned

The Book of Essie by Meghan MacLean Weir

The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives

Sex and the City

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants by Ann Brashares

Gossip Girl

Such a Bad Influence by Olivia Muenter

The Influencers by Anna-Marie McLemore

Tehrangeles by Porochista Khakpour

If You're Seeing This, It's Meant for You by Leigh Stein

The Dream Hotel by Laila Lalami

In Her Defense by Philippa Malicka

Dracula by Bram Stoker

Colton Gentry's Third Act by Jeff Zentner

The Princess Diaries by Meg Cabot

Amelia's Notebook by Marissa Moss

The Correspondent by Virginia Evans

Paper Cut by Rachel Taff

If you would like to get additional recommendations, analyses, and behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free email newsletter on Substack.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Greenwood by Michael Christie: legacy and inheritance

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 10:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Neha and Shruti discuss Greenwood, a multigenerational family saga tied together with a repeating motif of trees and forests. We discuss themes of legacy, inheritance, nature, and addiction, and we also share our critiques of the book, from its character construction to its central message.

Interview with Michael Christie

Shelf Discovery:

What We Can Know by Ian McEwan

The Overstory by Richard Powers

Playground by Richard Powers

Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi

If you would like to get additional recommendations, analyses, and behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free email newsletter on Substack.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Annihilation by Jeff VanderMeer: entropy and uncertainty

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 17:38:53 GMT

In this episode, Neha and Shruti discuss Annihilation, the first book of Jeff VanderMeer's Southern Reach trilogy. We discuss its world building, character development, and share our many theories about the central mystery and the book's ending.

Shelf Discovery & Books Mentioned:

His Dark Materials by Phillip Pullman

What Moves the Dead by T. Kingfisher

Piranesi by Susanna Clarke

If you would like to get additional recommendations, analyses, and behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free email newsletter on Substack.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What We Can Know by Ian McEwan: memory and preservation

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 09:59:00 GMT

In this episode, Shruti and Neha discuss What We Can Know, Ian McEwan's latest speculative novel about a lost poem, climate change, and the power of stories. We discuss this novel through the themes of memory and preservation, and talk about our differing opinions on some of the major twists in the novel.

Shelf Discovery & Books Mentioned:

Possession by A.S. Byatt

Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel

To the Lighthouse by Virginia Woolf

Universality by Natasha Brown

If you would like to get additional recommendations, analyses, and behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free email newsletter on Substack.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer: conceit and control

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 09:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Neha and Shruti discuss Jon Krakauer's famous account of the 1996 Mt. Everest disaster, Into Thin Air. They discuss his chosen narration style, clarify what actually happened on that mountain, and talk about the role of a writer in controlling their story.

Shelf Discovery

The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin

The Call of the Wild by Jack London

If you would like to get additional recommendations, analyses, and behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free email newsletter on Substack.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Season 7: The Natural World

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 09:27:00 GMT

New year, new season! In this episode we introduce the theme for our upcoming season, The Natural World - then we get into the eight books we'll be discussing over the next few months.

Vote for your choice of novel here

Books Mentioned:

Into Thin Air: A Personal Account of the Mt. Everest Disaster by Jon Krakauer

What We Can Know by Ian McEwan

Annihilation by Jeff Vandermeer

Greenwood by Michael Christie

Barkskins by Annie Proulx

We Are Green and Trembling by Gabriela Cabezón Cámara

Once There Were Wolves by Charlotte McConaghy

The Seed Keeper by Diane Wilson

Prodigal Summer by Barbara Kingsolver

Moby Dick by Herman Melville

If you would like to get additional recommendations, analyses, and behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free email newsletter on Substack.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2025 in Books: Our Favorite Books, Reading Reflections, and More

Fri, 26 Dec 2025 11:00:00 GMT

In our final episode of 2025, we talk about what our reading lives were like this year, and discuss our stand-out reads through superlatives. Listen in to hear the best page-turners, best characters, and most unexpected reads we encountered this year, to name a few!

Books Mentioned

The Margot Affair by Sanae Lemoine

Diary of a Void by Emi Yogi

The Bee Sting by Paul Murray

The Wall by Marlen Haushofer

The Days of Abandonment by Elena Ferrante

The City We Became by N.K. Jemisin

Friends of the Museum by Heather McGowan

Butter by Asako Yuzuki

The Oppermans Lion Feuchtwanger

Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier

The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny by Kiran Desai

Universality by Natasha Brown

My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante

Audition by Katie Kitamura

Heart the Lover by Lily King

Water Moon by Samantha Soto Yambao

The Old Man by the Sea by Domenico Starnone

Emma by Jane Austen

Free Food for Millionaires by Min Jin Lee

Bunny by Mona Awad

The Remembered Soldier by Anjet Daanje

Orbital by Samantha Harvey

Home Fire by Kamila Shamsie

A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles

If you would like to get additional behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free email newsletter on Substack.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cities, Places, and Settings in Books with Strong Sense of Place

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 11:00:00 GMT

Get your TBR lists ready, because in this wrap up episode we talk all about the books we read in Season 6, and then welcome David and Melissa of Strong Sense of Place for a special guest segment! They tell us about their favorite travels, settings they've loved, and unique books that have transported them. We also get into our issues with short stories, and discuss ways to get into reading them.

Books Discussed:

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë

Wakenhyrst by Michelle Paver

The Stranger in the Woods by Michael Finkel

The Works: Anatomy of a City by Kate Ascher

The Last Warner Woman by Kei Miller

Elephant Complex: Travels in Sri Lanka by John Gimlette

Stoner by John Williams

The Prague Sonata by Bradford Morrow

The Godmother by Hannelore Cayre

Vintage 1954 by Antoine Laurain

A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles

Table for Two by Amor Towles

A Swim in a Pond in the Rain by George Saunders

Passing by Nella Larson

The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay by Michael Chabon

From The Mixed Up Files of Mrs Basil E. Frankweiler by E. L. Konigsberg

The Cricket in Time Square by Garth Williams

The Original by Nell Stevens

Brat Farrar by Josephine Tay

The Talented Mr. Ripley by Patricia Highswmith

The Remembered Solider by Anjet Daanje

My Family and other Rockstars by Tiffany Murphy

If you would like to get additional behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free email newsletter on Substack.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Museum of Innocence by Orhan Pamuk : narcissism and honor

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 09:19:00 GMT

In this episode Neha and Shruti discuss The Museum of Innocence, by Nobel prize winner Orhan Pamuk, through themes of narcissism and honor. We discuss the idea of legacy, cultural norms and the patriarchy, and the way that the book's framing affects the way we interpret the story. Plus, we talk through the book's intriguing ending and reach new insights about what the book is trying to do, and its effect on readers.

Shelf Discovery:

Giovanni's Room by James Baldwin

My Dark Vanessa by Kate Elizabeth Russell

Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov

If you would like to get additional behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free email newsletter on Substack.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Such A Long Journey by Rohinton Mistry: forgiveness, misfortunes, and miracles

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 09:07:00 GMT

In this episode, Shruti and Neha travel to Mumbai in Rohinton Mistry's Booker shortlisted novel Such a Long Journey, through themes of forgiveness, miracles, and misfortunes. We discuss the novel's loveable and sometimes frustrating characters, the symbolism of animals, and the looming specter of death in daily life.

Books Mentioned & Shelf Discovery

A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry

Family Matters by Rohinton Mistry

The Inheritance of Loss by Kiran Desai

If you would like to get additional behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The City We Became by N.K. Jemisin: erasure and morality

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 11:00:00 GMT

Neha and Shruti discuss the speculative novel The City We Became, a story about New York City's five avatars who must band together to defend the city from a looming enemy. We discuss our thoughts on the book's premise and structure, get into H.P Lovecraft's legacy of horror and racism, and more!

Books Mentioned & Shelf Discovery:

The Call of Cthulu by H.P. Lovecraft

Monsters: A Fan's Dilemma by Claire Dederer

Lone Women by Victor LaValle

Lovecraft Country by Matt Ruff

If you would like to get additional behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

White Teeth by Zadie Smith: disappointment and rejecting coexistence

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 10:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Neha and Shruti discuss Zadie Smith's debut novel, White Teeth. We talk about themes of religion, inheritance, class, history, and the need for control; we explore what those 'white teeth' in the title might mean; and finally we get into our issues with the book, and discuss the genre of Hysterical Realism.

Links:

Human, All Too Inhuman by James Wood

How White Teeth transcends its many flaws

Shelf Discovery:

On Beauty by Zadie Smith

Home Fire by Kamila Shamsie

The Shadow Lines by Amitav Ghosh

If you would like to get additional behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mrs. Dalloway by Virginia Woolf: perception and inadequacy

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 10:00:00 GMT

Virginia Woolf's incredible novel Mrs. Dalloway turns 100 this year! Shruti and Neha talk about this book and its themes of perception, inadequacy, memory, illness, and death. They discuss the effect of the past on the characters, the book's imperialist and pro-colonialism project, and the disappearance of the narrator.

Books Mentioned & Shelf Discovery:

On Being Ill by Virginia Woolf

Culture and Imperialism by Edward Said

The Annotated Mrs. Dalloway edited by Merve Emre

A Room of One's Own by Virginia Woolf

To The Lighthouse by Virginia Woolf

The Hours by Michael Cunningham

If you would like to get additional behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brooklyn by Colm Tóibín: family and duty

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 10:00:00 GMT

Neha and Shruti discuss Brooklyn, a historical novel about a young woman who immigrates from Ireland to America in the 1950s, through the themes of family and duty. We discuss the character of Eilis Lacey and her passivity, Tóibín's spare writing style, and the various forces pulling at the characters in this book. We also draw comparisons to Henry James, and share a few thoughts on the movie adaption.

Links:

The Coldest Place on Earth [London Review of Books]

Books Mentioned & Shelf Discovery

The Portrait of a Lady by Henry James

Washington Square by Henry James

Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano

Another Country by James Baldwin

Giovanni's Room by James Baldwin

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith

If you would like to get additional behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bangkok Wakes to Rain by Pitchaya Sudbanthad: time and displacement

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 10:00:00 GMT

In this episode we discuss Bangkok Wakes to Rain, a novel of interconnected stories set in Krung Thep (Bangkok) over several decades. We discuss how the idea of time is explored through the story, and how each character encounters displacement in their own way. We then get into a conversation about aging, beauty trends, and the afterlife, before our final Filter the Chai and Shelf Discovery segments.

Sea of Tranquility: wilderness and loneliness - Apple Podcasts | Spotify

Shelf Discovery:

The Overstory by Richard Powers

Human Acts by Han Kang

Sea of Tranquility by Emily St. John Mandel

There Are Rivers in the Sky by Elif Shafak

If you would like to get additional behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cities & Urban Literature: Introducing Season 6

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 10:00:00 GMT

Welcome to a new season! Today we’re talking all about cities in literature – what cities represent, what ‘setting as character’ really means, and books we’ve read that really capture the magic of cities. We then share the seven books we’ll be reading this season, along with context and background, and the themes and elements we’ll be paying attention to as we read.

Books Mentioned:

Uglies by Scott Westerfeld

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy

Bangkok Wakes to Rain by Pitchaya Sudbanthad

Brooklyn by Colm Toibin

Mrs. Dalloway by Virginia Woolf

White Teeth by Zadie Smith

The City We Became by NK Jemison

Such a Long Journey by Rohinton Mistry

The Museum of Innocence by Orhan Pamuk

If you would like to get additional behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Adaptation Theory, the 'Madwoman' in Literature, and Upcoming Movies: Wrapping Up Season 5

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 08:38:00 GMT

In this episode we zoom out and talk about all the books we covered over the past few months, discussing favorites and least favorites, as well as highlighting some themes that emerged, including strong settings and ‘the madwoman’ in literature. We then get into adaptation theory – some background on adaptations, and what we think makes a good adaptation (with a few tangents into the upcoming Harry Potter series and Greta Gerwig’s Narnia).

Links:

On the Art of Adaptation by Linda Hutcheon [Jstor]

Context in Film Adaptations [Jstor]

If you would like to get additional behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

All's Well by Mona Awad: perception and repetition

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 10:00:00 GMT

In this episode we talk all about All's Well, a novel that is in part a retelling, in part an homage to theater, and a completely wild ride of a book. We discuss the way perception plays into the story, and how repetition functions to serve the narrative - and of course, we explore All's Well That Ends Well and MacBeth, the two plays at the heart of this novel.

Shelf Discovery:

Bunny by Mona Awad

Woo Woo by Ella Baxter

Hunchback by Saou Ichikawa

The Rehearsal by Eleanor Catton

My Death by Lisa Tuttle

If you would like to get additional behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Home Fire by Kamila Shamsie: convictions and pentads

Wed, 28 May 2025 10:00:00 GMT

Neha and Shruti discuss Home Fire, a retelling of Antigone set in the present day that explores questions of family, loyalty, beliefs, and legacy. We share some background about Sophocles' Antigone to help ground the discussion, discuss the parts of the novel that we loved, and share some of our issues with its construction. And as always, we share book recommendations in our Shelf Discovery segment for readers who liked different aspects of Home Fire.

Shelf Discovery:

The Other Americans by Laila Lalami

Circe by Madeline Miller

Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller

The Penelopiad by Margaret Atwood

A Woman Is No Man by Etaf Rum

The Dream Hotel by Laila Lalami

Enter Ghost by Isabella Hammad

If you would like to get additional behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jane Austen Adaptations with What The Austen?

Wed, 21 May 2025 08:39:00 GMT

In this special bonus episode, we are so excited to be joined by Izzy of What the Austen? as we talk all things relating to Austen adaptations! We discuss what makes a good adaptation, and that special quality to Austen's prose and which movies and TV shows succeed at capturing her magic. And, of course, we talk about our favorite (and least favorite) screen adaptations!

Follow Izzy on her Youtube Channel, Instagram, or by listening in to her other excellent podcast episodes!

If you would like to get additional behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emma by Jane Austen: Adaptations

Wed, 14 May 2025 08:18:00 GMT

In this episode we discuss the many adaptations of Jane Austen’s Emma: Emma (1996 with Gwyneth Paltrow), Emma (1996 with Kate Beckinsale), Emma (2020 with Anya Taylor Joy), Clueless (1995 with Alicia Silverstone). We talk all about what each version gets right, and what it gets wrong, and decide on a favorite Emma, a favorite Knightely, and favorite overall!

We also reference a few other Emma adaptations, including Aisha (2010 with Sonam Kapoor), Emma Approved (Youtube Miniseries), and Emma of 83rd Street by Aubrey Bellezza and Emily Harding.

If you would like to get additional behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emma by Jane Austen: autonomy and companionship

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 10:00:00 GMT

In this episode, we discuss, laugh about, and delight Jane Austen's Emma. We talk about the novel’s themes of autonomy and companionship and how these are at odds; we also delve into what we think the book is saying about love, marriage, friendship, and class. We of course giggle and marvel over the book’s wonderful characters, and we also get a bit nerdy as we make comparisons to Shakespeare’s comedies.

Links:

Emma and New Comedy [JASNA]

The Powers of the Instrument: Or, Jane, Frank, and the Pianoforte [JASNA]

Books Mentioned & Shelf Discovery

A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare

As You Like It by William Shakespeare

The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde

The Luck of the Bodkins by PG Wodehouse

Cleopatra and Frankenstein by Coco Mellors

Dial A for Aunties by Jesse Q Sutanto

If you would like to get additional behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles: imagination and balance

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 09:30:00 GMT

Shruti and Neha discuss Amor Towle's beloved tale of confinement, A Gentleman in Moscow, through the themes of balance and imagination. We provide some historical context for the events of the novel, share what we loved, and provide some critiques (including our thoughts on the ending). We also talk about the Paramount TV adaptation and compare its themes and mission to those of the book.

Books Mentioned & Shelf Discovery:

Piranesi by Susanna Clarke

The Last Queen by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni

The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah

A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Annie Barrows and Mary Ann Shaffer

If you would like to get additional behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rebecca: Movie Adaptations

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 10:00:00 GMT

In this episode Neha and Shruti discuss the two movie adaptations of Rebecca: the 1940 masterpiece directed by Alfred Hitchcock, and the 2020... something piece directed by Ben Wheatley. We pay attention to characterization, setting, music, and costume, and of course, discuss the MAJOR changes made to the ending in both these movies!

If you would like to get additional behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier: wildness and the elements

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 08:30:00 GMT

In this episode, Shruti and Neha discuss the Gothic masterpiece Rebecca, by Daphne du Maurier. We talk about the main characters and what they might represent, and the way the book plays with ideas of identity and relationships. We also discuss the themes of memory, innocence and maturity, gender roles and sexuality, the symbolism of flowers, and so much more!

*This episode contains serious spoilers!

Links:

The Secret History by Donna Tartt: aesthetics and paranoia (Spotify | Apple Podcasts)

The Secret History, Dark Academia, and Academic Elitism [The Novel Tea Newsletter]

Books Mentioned & Shelf Discovery

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë

Wide Sargasso Sea by Jean Rhys

Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

The Secret History by Donna Tartt

My Cousin Rachel by Daphne du Maurier

If you would like to get additional behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Wide Sargasso Sea and other Jane Eyre Adaptations

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 09:30:00 GMT

In this episode Neha and Shruti discuss Wide Sargasso Sea by Jean Rhys through the themes of liminality and bias. We talk about the book as its own work, then we compare it to Jane Eyre, its source text. We also discuss several screen adaptations of Jane Eyre, including the 1997 and 2011 films, and the 1983 and 2006 television adaptations.

Shelf Discovery

Lucy by Jamaica Kincaid

The Yellow Wallpaper by Charlotte Perkins Gilman

The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood

If you would like to get additional behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë: adventure and self-respect

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 14:47:36 GMT

In this episode Shruti and Neha discuss one of the most beloved classics of all time: Jane Eyre. We discuss Jane's character through the themes of adventure and self-respect, the metaphor of the red room, and how Jane's desire for affection manifests through her many relationships. We also disagree on Rochester's character (and the book's ending), and analyze the many themes and motifs in this book, including religion, orientalism, fairytales, colonialism & empire, and more!

Books Mentioned & Shelf Discovery:

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Mansfield Park by Jane Austen

Wide Sargasso Sea by Jean Rhys

North and South by Elizabeth Gaskell

Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë

The Eyre Affair by Jasper Fforde

If you would like to get additional behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Fall of the House of Usher and What Moves the Dead: dreams and denial

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 13:45:38 GMT

In this episode, we discuss the short story The Fall of the House of Usher by Edgar Allen Poe, its many interpretations – from institutional decay, to psychology and health, to imagined realities – and the real-life history the story is said to have been based on. We then talk about What Moves the Dead, a retelling of Poe’s short story, and whether or not it accomplished what it set out to do.

Along the way, we also get into what makes a good adaptation and differences between gothic and horror genres. We also talk a bit about the recent Netflix adaptation The Fall of the House of Usher by Mike Flanagan.

Shelf Discovery:

The Yellow Wallpaper by Charlotte Perkins Gilman

The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde

The Empusium: A Health Resort Horror Story by Olga Tokarczuk

If you would like to get additional behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Season 5: Adaptations - What makes a good book adaptation, our favorite adaptations, and our season 5 books

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 09:23:00 GMT

In this episode we introduce our theme for the season: adaptations! We discuss some of the best and worst adaptations we've seen, what makes a good adaptation, and the new trends in book adaptations. And, of course, we share what we'll be reading (and watching!) over the next few months for Season 5.

Books and movies mentioned:

Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

Wicked

Eragon by Christopher Paolini

Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling

10 Things I Hate About You

She's the Man

The Lion King

Hamlet by William Shakespeare

Mufasa

Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte

The Fall of the House of Usher by Edgar Allen Poe

What Moves the Dead by T. Kingfisher

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

Wide Sargasso Sea by Jean Rhys

Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier

A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles

Emma by Jane Austen

Home Fire by Kamila Shamsie

Antigone by Sophocles

All's Well by Mona Awad

If you would like to get additional behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2024 in Books: Our Top Ten, New Releases, and More!

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 09:12:22 GMT

It's finally here - our year in books! In this bonus episode, we share the 10 best books we read this year, ranging from new releases, to classics, to non-fiction. We also share a few honorable mentions that we loved. And, towards the end of the episode, we spill the tea on a few 2024 releases, including some that we loved and others that didn't quite hit the mark.

Books Mentioned:

The Guest

The Night Swim

They Called Us Exceptional

Educated

The Little Stranger

Yellowface

The Left Hand of Darkness

The Hunchback of Notre Dame

Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow

There are Rivers in the Sky

Argylle

The Bright Sword

Funny Story

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Borders, Revisionist Literature, and Edward Said: Season 4 Wrap

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 12:00:55 GMT

Neha and Shruti discuss all 8 books we've covered over the last few months, and talk about themes that emerged - getting a little nerdy along the way. We also discuss the Booker prize, throw some shade at the Oscars, and share more book recommendations around the theme of borders.

This episode is spoiler free!

Books mentioned:

Culture and Imperialism by Edward Said

Termush by Sven Holm

Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi

We Have Always Been Here by Samra Habib

They Called Us Exceptional by Prachi Gupta

The Reluctant Fundamentalist by Mohsin Hamid

Giovanni's Room by James Baldwin

Disgrace by J.M. Coetzee

The Laughter by Sonora Jha

If you would like to get additional behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Parisian by Isabella Hammad: belonging and edification

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 17:15:32 GMT

Neha and Shruti discuss The Parisian by Isabella Hammad, a book that follows Midhat Kamal, a Palestinian man, between the First and Second World Wars. We talk about the 19th century European novel, prominent themes we noticed in the book, and our thoughts on the characters and their development. We also get into the historical context of the events unfolding in the book.

Links

IsraelPalestine For Critical Thinkers on Youtube

Empire Podcast [Apple Podcasts] [Spotify]

Books Mentioned & Shelf Discovery

War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy

Sentimental Education by Gustave Flaubert

The Sympathizer by Viet Thanh Nguyen

Hope and Other Dangerous Pursuits by Laila Lalami

The House of the Spirits by Isabel Allende

Our Riches by Kaouther Adimi

If you would like to get additional behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida: change our minds - with Brown Girl Bookshelf

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 09:02:07 GMT

This week we are so excited to invite Sri Ramesh of Brown Girl Bookshelf to chat with us! Last week, Neha and Shruti got into some of their critiques of The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida, and this week, Sri is here to tell us what she loved about. Will she change our minds?

We also talk more broadly about Sri Lankan literature, the Booker prize, book endings, and our reading idiosyncrasies.

Links

What Makes a Book a 'Classic'? [The Novel Tea Newsletter archive]

Books

A Passage North by Anuk Arudpragasam

Story of a Brief Marriage by Anuk Arudpragasam

Brotherless Night by V. V. Ganeshanathan

The Year of the Runaways by Sunjeev Sahota

A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara

Goodbye Vitamin by Rachel Khong

Bird Milk & Mosquito Bones: A Memoir by Priyanka Mattoo

A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry

The Message by Ta-Nehisi Coates

The Luminaries by Eleanor Catton

The Inheritance of Loss by Kiran Desai

The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy

Homeland Elegies by Ayad Akhtar

Chai Time at Cinnamon Gardens by Shankari Chandran

If you would like to get additional behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida by Shehan Karunatilaka: dignity and chance

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 09:23:54 GMT

Neha and Shruti discuss The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida, a book that starts with the death of a photographer and follows him in the afterlife as he attempts to find his murderer and his missing photographs. We talk about the nature of death and the afterlife, and share historical context about the Sri Lankan Civil War. We also explore why people might be afraid to critize books, particularly works by marginalized communities.

Books mentioned & Shelf Discovery

Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

The Luminaries by Eleanor Catton

The Great Indian Novel by Shashi Tharoor

The Sympathizer by Viet Thanh Nguyen

Slaughterhouse Five by Kurt Vonnegut

If you would like to get additional behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Another Country by James Baldwin: love and pain; grief and forgiveness

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 09:11:20 GMT

Neha and Shruti discuss Another Country by James Baldwin, a book that follows a group of friends and lovers in New York City in the mid-20th century. We talk about the characters and their relationships, the inaction that fills the novel, and the importance of having 'difficult' conversations with the people you love. We also go on a brief Gossip Girl tangent as we attempt to better understand the characters in this book :)

Links:

Another Country by Claudia Roth Pierpont [The New Yorker]

Jazz by Toni Morrison: violence and ambition [The Novel Tea]

Books mentioned & Shelf Discovery:

A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara

The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton

Jazz by Toni Morrison

The Sun Also Rises by Ernest Hemingway

If you would like to get additional behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Daughters of the Deer by Danielle Daniel: survival and mistrust

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 11:00:04 GMT

Neha and Shruti discuss Daughters of the Deer, by Danielle Daniel, a work of historical fiction that follows an indigenous woman and her daughter in a 17th century French colony that is now Quebec, Canada. We talk about the historical context of the book, discuss the characters and their journeys, and reflect on the importance of telling these stories.

Shelf Discovery:

East by Edith Pattou

Fever 1793 by Laurie Halse Anderson

Hope Leslie; Or Early Times in Massachusetts by Catharine Maria Sedgwick

If you would like to get additional behind-the-scenes content related to this and all of our episodes, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Savage Detectives by Roberto Bolaño: youth and narcissism

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 08:08:34 GMT

Neha and Shruti discuss The Savage Detectives, the story of two poets and the people and world that surrounds them, as they journey across Mexico. We talk about some of the cultural context of this book, the challenges we faced while reading, and share some strong opinions.

Shelf Discovery

American Gods by Neil Gaiman

If you would like to get more in-depth analysis, book recommendations, and cultural commentary, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Other Americans by Laila Lalami : memory and protection

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 09:00:01 GMT

In this episode, Shruti and Neha discuss The Other Americans by Laila Lalami, a novel about an immigrant family that includes a romance, family drama, and a mystery. After a quick discussion of the It Ends With Us drama, we share a quick summary and dive into some themes we noticed in The Other Americans, including memory, regret, and protection. We talk about some of the key relationships and conflicts, major plot points, and Lalami's writing style.

Shelf Discovery

The Night Watchman by Louise Erdrich

The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri

If you would like to get more in-depth analysis, book recommendations, and cultural commentary, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Inheritance of Loss by Kiran Desai: class and entitlement

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 08:46:05 GMT

In this episode, Shruti and Neha discuss The Inheritance of Loss by Kiran Desai, which follows four characters from different social and financial classes, whose stories are linked through familial relationships and employment. As the book continues, their lives become more intimately intertwined and political unrest starts to reach their homes.

We talk about the themes of class and entitlement, the historical landscape of India in the post-independence decades, and discuss how this book is descendant from British literary giants such as PG Wodehouse and Jane Austen.

Shelf Discovery:

A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry

Pachinko by Min Jin Lee

Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

If you would like to get more in-depth analysis, book recommendations, and cultural commentary, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Sympathizer by Viet Thanh Nguyen: loyalty and duality

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 09:14:46 GMT

Neha and Shruti discuss The Sympathizer, the 2016 Pulitzer winner for fiction, through the themes of loyalty and duality. This book is a thriller and a satire, following a mixed race narrator who moves to the United States after the fall of Saigon, and must navigate his identity and his role as a communist spy. We talk about the book's historical context, its commentary on race and pop culture, and more.

Links:

Interview with Viet Thanh Nguyen [NPR]

Shelf Discovery:

The Great Indian Novel by Shashi Tharoor

The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver

If you would like to get more in-depth analysis, book recommendations, and cultural commentary, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Season 4: Beyond Borders

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 07:38:36 GMT

In this episode, Neha and Shruti introduce the theme for Season 4: Beyond Borders! We talk about the books we've selected to read in this theme, and share what we're excited about in the upcoming months.

Books Mentioned:

The Sympathizer by Viet Thanh Nyugen

The Inheritance of Loss by Kiran Desai

The Other Americans by Laila Lalami

The Savage Detectives by Roberto Bolaño

Daughters of the Deer by Danielle Daniel

Another Country by James Baldwin

The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida by Shehan Karunatilaka

The Parisian by Isabella Hammad

If you would like to get more in-depth analysis, book recommendations, and cultural commentary, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

This episode description contains links to Bookshop.org, a website that supports independent bookstores. If you use these links we may earn a small commission (which helps support our work) at no additional cost to you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Novelties: 2024 Mid-Year Reading Spotlight

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 07:46:10 GMT

It's time for the best, the worst, and everything in-between: in the 2024 Novelties, Shruti and Neha give awards to their favorite reads of 2024 so far. Ranging from classics to new releases, we share our picks for most unexpected, best character, worth the hype, best page-turner, weirdest book, and more!

Books Mentioned:

Emma of 83rd Street by Audrey Belleza and Emily Harding

My Death by Lisa Tuttle

My Dark Vanessa by Kate Elizabeth Russell

Piranesi by Susanna Clarke

The Hunchback of Notre Dame by Victor Hugo

The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde

Sea of Tranquility by Emily St. John Mandel

The Illness Lesson by Clare Beams

James by Percival Everett

Birnam Wood by Eleanor Catton

The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store by James McBride

The Women by Kristin Hannah

The Little Stranger by Sarah Waters

The Membranes by Ta-Wei Chi wei

Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin

Dial A for Aunties by Jesse Q. Sutanto

The Villa by Rachel Hawkins

The Secret History by Donna Tartt

Cuckold by Kiran Nagarkar

If you would like to get more in-depth analysis, book recommendations, and cultural commentary, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Season 3 Wrap: Other Worlds, the Genre Debate, and Speculative Fiction Books to add to your TBR

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 06:51:59 GMT

In our last episode until the fall, we talk all about speculative fiction: our favorite fictional worlds, the best reading experiences we've had this season, and more. We also share the books that didn't make the cut for this season (even though we want to read them all), and get into the great realistic vs. genre fiction debate.

Books mentioned:

Dark Matter by Blake Crouch

Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

Snow Crash by Neal Stephenson

Till We Have Faces by C.S. Lewis

Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman

Stardust by Neil Gaiman

Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell by Susanna Clarke

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

The Eyre Affair by Jasper Fforde

If you would like to get more in-depth analysis, book recommendations, and cultural commentary, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Piranesi by Susanna Clarke: death and discovery

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 16:00:42 GMT

Today, Neha and Shruti talk about Piranesi by Susanna Clarke, a dreamy, fantastical novel set in a beautiful House where there are birds, fish, tides, and statues. We talk about the narrator's unique perspective, the writing style, and our thoughts on the underlying meaning of the story. We also get into the book's many allusions and references, from C.S. Lewis, to Plato's Allegory of the Cave.

Shelf Discovery & Books Mentioned:

Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell by Susanna Clarke

The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern

Circe by Madeline Miller

If you would like to get more in-depth analysis, book recommendations, and cultural commentary, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sea of Tranquility by Emily St. John Mandel: wilderness and loneliness

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 16:00:34 GMT

Shruti and Neha talk about Sea of Tranquility, the latest book from speculative fiction author Emily St. John Mandel. We dive into the differences between loneliness and solitude, past vs. present tense in fiction, time travel, the history of the simulation hypothesis, and much more!

Spoilers start at 15:53.

Shelf Discovery

The Glass Hotel by Emily St. John Mandel

The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger

The New York Trilogy by Paul Auster

If you would like to get more in-depth analysis, book recommendations, and cultural commentary, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón: obsession and memory

Wed, 22 May 2024 16:00:04 GMT

In this episode, Neha and Shruti dive into the historical underbelly of Barcelona where they find twisted tales, hidden secrets, family drama, and heartbreak. We read The Shadow of the Wind through themes of obsession and memory, talk about Gothic fiction and mystery stories, and finally get to our problems with the book's ending.

Shelf Discovery:

Chronicle of a Death Foretold by Gabriel Garcia Marquez

The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

If you would like to get more in-depth analysis, curated book recommendations, and cultural commentary, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fledgling by Octavia Butler: home and innocence

Wed, 08 May 2024 16:00:08 GMT

Shruti and Neha discuss Fledgling, Octavia Butler's last novel before her untimely death, through the themes of home and innocence. We talk about vampire lore (including Twilight and The Vampire Diaries), the ethics of genetic manipulation, and race through the lens of childhood.

Links:

Code Switch: Taylor Swift and the unbearable whiteness of girlhood

Shelf Discovery:

The Vegetarian by Han King

The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison

If you would like to get more in-depth analysis, curated book recommendations, and cultural commentary, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin: hospitality and shifgrethor

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 16:00:21 GMT

In this episode, Neha and Shruti discuss one of the most acclaimed science fiction novels of all time: Ursula K. Le Guin's The Left Hand of Darkness. We give you all the context you need to understand this complex and nuanced novel, and even some information you may not have thought you needed, including: the evolutionary biology of menstruation, gender constructs & stereotypes, conflicts of love and trust, and much more.

Spoilers start at 33:19

Links:

How and Why did Women Evolve Periods? by Suzanne Sadedin, PhD in evolutionary biology

Shelf Discovery and Books Mentioned:

A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin

Dune by Frank Herbert

Frankenstein by Mary Shelley

His Dark Materials by Phillip Pullman

If you would like to hear more in-depth literary analysis, curated book recommendations, and cultural commentary, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Humans by Matt Haig: survival and curiosity

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 13:00:57 GMT

Shruti and Neha discuss The Humans by Matt Haig, a novel that is dressed up as science fiction, but is really about learning to love life. We talk about reading the right book at the right time, science fiction's relationship to colonialism, and bigger questions about the way we live today. We also wonder if there is a such thing as self-help fiction.

Shelf Discovery:

An Immense World: How Animal Senses Reveal the Hidden Realms Around Us by Ed Yong

The Choice: Embrace the Possible by Edith Eger

Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson

The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky

Spoilers start at 22:20

Content warning: suicide, mental health

If you would like to hear more in-depth literary analysis, curated book recommendations, and cultural commentary, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mythology & Retellings

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 16:00:45 GMT

In this fun bonus episode, Shruti and Neha dive into everything mythology-related, including: what are myths? Why are Greek mythology retellings so popular, and is that problematic? Does mythology still exist today?

We talk about all this and more, referencing The Hero's Journey, Joseph Campbell, and world mythologies.

*Spoilers for American Gods between 20:50-21:10

Books Mentioned:

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by JK Rowling

American Gods by Neil Gaiman

The Secret History by Donna Tartt

The Penelopiad by Margaret Atwood

Circe by Madeline Miller

Clytemnestra by Costanza Casati

Kaikeyi by Vaishnavi Patel

If you would like to hear more in-depth literary analysis, curated book recommendations, and cultural commentary, subscribe to our free newsletter.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

American Gods by Neil Gaiman: deception and survival

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 16:00:52 GMT

*Note: this episode was recorded and published before the information on Gaiman's exploitation and abuse of women was made public. We do not support the author financially or otherwise - but we do believe in the importance of discussing art and literature, so are choosing to leave this episode available to all.

In this episode Neha and Shruti tackle one of the living titans of speculative fiction: Neil Gaiman. We discuss American Gods through the themes of deception and survival, tracking the characters through the story as we ponder stories of immigration, faith, and disillusionment. We also talk about the importance of reading challenging novels and taking our time with certain books.

Spoilers for the ending start at 21:50.

Content warning: the book contains references to historical violence against Black people, which we discuss 22:30-24:00.

If you would like to hear more in-depth literary analysis, curated book recommendations, and cultural commentary, subscribe to our free newsletter.

Shelf Discovery

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

*When talking about carousels, Neha mistakenly mentions The Book Thief - she actually was referring to The Thief Lord by Cornelia Funke

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Penelopiad by Margaret Atwood: justice and persuasion

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 17:00:15 GMT

In this episode, Shruti and Neha discuss one of Margaret Atwood's lesser known works, The Penelopiad - a retelling of The Odyssey from the perspective of Penelope, and the twelve hanged maids. Even if you haven't read the book, we think there's a lot you'll enjoy in this episode!

We consider the themes of justice and persuasion as we talk about modern feminism (and the #MeToo movement), how myths evolve, and trends in mythology retellings. We also talk about Atwood's character portrayals and narrative choices, and how they impacted our reading experience.

If you would like to hear more in-depth literary analysis, curated book recommendations, and cultural commentary, subscribe to our free newsletter.

Books Mentioned in Shelf Discovery:

The Greek Myths by Robert Graves

The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood

Circe by Madeline Miller

Clytemnestra by Costanza Casati

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Secret History by Donna Tartt: aesthetics and paranoia

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 17:00:18 GMT

Neha and Shruti discuss The Secret History, a book that has gained a cult following in the last few decades - and as we discuss the book, we start to see why. We talk about the characters, the atmospheric setting, and how Tartt brilliantly creates and sustains tension. We also provide some background for the book's classical allusions, and share all our theories about the book's shocking climax. And as always, we provide recommendations in our Shelf Discovery segment for books to read next if you loved The Secret History, based on the aspect of the novel that you loved most.

What is the significance of the line 'Beauty is terror'? Which character functions as a cult leader? What is dark academia? You'll find all this and more in this episode. True spoilers start at 19:20

If you would like to hear more in-depth literary analysis, curated book recommendations, and cultural commentary, you can also subscribe to our free newsletter.

Books Mentioned & Shelf Discovery:

Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë

Passing by Nella Larsen

The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern

The Idiot by Elif Batuman

Either/Or by Elif Batuman

Babel by R.F. Kuang

My Cousin Rachel by Daphne du Maurier

Euphoria by Lily King

The Shining by Stephen King

Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo

Links:

Once Upon a Time... at Bennington College

*We mistakenly stated that Icarus is a god; Icarus in Greek mythology is the son of a craftsman.

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How to Read Like an English Teacher with Novel Pairings

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 17:00:32 GMT

In this bonus episode, Shruti and Neha invite some special guests to talk about books: Chelsey and Sara of Novel Pairings! We talk all about reading carefully and deeply, public scholarship, and tools to help sharpen your analytic lens. Along the way, we talk about some of our childhood favorites, trends in literature, high school English classes, and more!

Listen to Novel Pairings, follow them on Instagram, and visit their Patreon for extra classes.

If you would like to hear more in-depth literary and cultural analysis, curated book recommendations, and critical commentary, you can also subscribe to our free newsletter.

Selected Books and Other Works Mentioned:

Witch Please Podcast

Dolls of Our Lives Podcast

Culture Study by Anne Helen Peterson: Newsletter and Podcast

Craft in the Real World: Rethinking Fiction Writing and Workshopping by Matthew Salesses

A Swim in the Pond in the Rain by George Saunders

Wilder Podcast

The Bee Sting by Paul Murray

The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store by James McBride

Passing by Nella Larsen

The Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni

So Late in the Day by Claire Keegan

The Guide by R.K. Narayan

Selected Poems by Rabindranath Tagore

We love hearing from our listeners! You can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Season 3: Speculative Fiction and Other Worlds

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 17:00:03 GMT

We're back, and we're so excited to delve into the worlds of speculative fiction with you all! In this episode, we share the theme we'll be reading through for the next few months: Other Worlds.

We talk about the books we'll be reading for the next few months, including important background about these works and their authors, and why we picked them. If you love fantasy, science fiction, supernatural, and dystopian fiction, then this season is for you! And if these aren't your preferred genres, but you're looking to expand your reading horizons this year, then we think you'll like this season too.

If you would like to hear more in-depth literary and cultural analysis, curated book recommendations, and critical commentary, subscribe to our free email newsletter.

Books mentioned:

The Secret History by Donna Tartt

Penelopiad by Margaret Atwood

American Gods by Neil Gaiman

The Humans by Matt Haig

The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin

Fledgling by Octavia Butler

Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon

Sea of Tranquility by Emily St. John Mandel

Piranesi by Susanna Clarke

We love to hear from listeners about the books we discuss - you can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Was it Worth the Hype? 2023 Reads in Review

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:00:16 GMT

In this bonus episode, Shruti and Neha share the most popular books they've in 2023, including Bookstagram favorites, award-winners, and Tik Tok darlings from the past few years. We summarize the books and give our honest opinions on whether or not these books were worth the hype - and for the books we didn't like, we give some recommendations for books that we thought were better.

Listen in to find out if these books are worth reading - and if you loved a book that we hated (or vice versa), tell us why we're wrong! You can connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

If you would like to hear more in-depth literary and cultural analysis, curated book recommendations, and critical commentary, subscribe to our free newsletter.

Books and Articles Mentioned:

Normal People by Sally Rooney

Conversations with Friends by Sally Rooney

The Idiot by Elif Batuman

Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo

Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo

A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J Maas

Girls Made of Snow and Glass by Melissa Bashardoust

The Invisible Life of Addie Larue by V.E. Schwab

Book Lovers by Emily Henry

I've Got Your Number by Sophie Kinsella

Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens

Victory City by Salman Rushdie

Daisy Jones and the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Babel: An Arcane History by R.F. Kuang

Yellowface by R.F. Kuang

Milk and Honey by Rupi Kaur

Dead Stars by Ada Limón

Trust by Hernan Diaz

NYT Review of Trust by Hernan Diaz

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Season 2 Wrap: Global Reads, Trauma Narratives, and International Books to add to your TBR

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 17:00:04 GMT

In this (mostly) spoiler-free* episode, Neha and Shruti reflect on the experience of reading books from around the world. We zoom out and talk on a broad level about narrative voice, villainy, disability representation and its portrayal in literature, and post-colonial writing. We also do a deep dive into trauma narratives - why are they so popular nowadays? What stories are being promoted, and how does this limit the stories being told by authors of color?

We had so much to say on these topics, that we just couldn't get to all of it in the episode! We decided to continue the discussion in our upcoming email newsletter - subscribe for free to join the conversation. You can also connect with us on Instagram, or email us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

*We mention some minor plot points for The Murmur of Bees, Fruit of the Drunken Tree, and Pachinko (10:26-12:05), but we don't think these spoil the story in a significant way. Still, if you prefer to read books without any prior knowledge, make sure to check out these books before you listen to this episode!

Links:

The Case Against the Trauma Plot by Parul Sehgal in the New Yorker

Books mentioned:

Illness as Metaphor by Susan Sontag

Tess of D'Urbervilles by Thomas Hardy

The Tenant of Wildfell Hall by Anne Bronte

I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy

Regarding the Pain of Others by Susan Sontag

Letters to a Writer of Color edited by Deepa Anappara and Taymour Soomro

Like Water for Chocolate by Laura Esquivel

Sea Monsters by Chloe Aridjis

The Bone People by Keri Hulme

Cry, the Beloved Country by Alan Paton

Beasts of a Little Land by Juhea Kim

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Luminaries by Eleanor Catton: destiny and truth

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 17:00:27 GMT

In this episode Neha and Shruti talk about the Booker prize winning novel The Luminaries, by Eleanor Catton. We discuss the characters, the structure of the book, what we want out of long books, and why we should maybe be wary of literary prizes. Whether you loved this book or hated it, there's something for everyone in this discussion!

If you would like to hear more in-depth literary and cultural analysis, curated book recommendations, and critical commentary, subscribe to our free newsletter. You can also connect with us on Instagram or by emailing us at thenovelteapod@gmail.com.

Shelf Discovery:

The Luminaries by Eleanor Catton

Shruti - The Woman in White by Wilkie Collins

Neha - The Thorn Birds by Colleen McCollough

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kafka on the Shore by Haruki Murakami: fate and destiny

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 17:00:19 GMT

Warning: NSFW because this book was very, very weird. Shruti and Neha talk about fate and destiny, Freud, and the spiritual realm, and also throw some shade on the book’s flat and uninspired female characters.

Links:

Mieko Kawakami interviews Murakami about his female characters

Shelf Discovery:

Kafka on the Shore by Haruki Murakami

Neha - Norwegian Wood by Haruki Murakami

Shruti - The New York Trilogy by Paul Auster; The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy

*Content warning: this episode contains references to incest and rape as they appear in the book.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pachinko Pt. 2 with Books & Boba

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 17:00:28 GMT

We had so much to say about Pachinko that we had to record a part 2! Joining us on this episode are special guests Marvin and Reera from Books & Boba. We talk to them about their podcast and mission, and get to hear more about Asian diaspora stories and their impact.

In continuing our discussion on Pachinko, we talk about themes of wealth and opportunity, generational trauma, and relate these to some of our own family’s struggles. We talk more about Min Jin Lee’s process in writing this book, and we also share our unfiltered opinions on the Apple TV adaptation.

Books mentioned:

Straw Dogs of the Universe by Ye Chun

Banyan Moon by Thao Thai

Sorcerer of the Crown by Zen Cho

The Magical Language of Others by E.J. Koh

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pachinko by Min Jin Lee: pride and virtue

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 17:00:00 GMT

Join us for part 1 of our discussion on Min Jin Lee's best-selling novel Pachinko, a sweeping family saga that chronicles several generations of a Korean family living in Japan. In this episode, Neha and Shruti explore themes of pride and virtue, and dissect the complex web of characters that surround Sunja, the book's protagonist. What do these characters have to sacrifice to survive in their world? How do their aspirations shape their identities and influence their relationships?

We talk about the book's cultural significance, narrative depth, and emotional impact, and at the end, as in all our episodes, we rate the book, and ask whether this book will be considered a classic in the years to come.

Shelf Discovery:

Pachinko by Min Jin Lee

Neha - The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri

Shruti - Daughter of Fortune by Isabel Allende

*Note: Neha had a small issue with her audio recording, so if it sounds a bit fuzzy, that's why - we are working on fixing the issue so all future episodes have crisp and clear sound!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Mahabharata

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 16:00:14 GMT

In this comprehensive, full-exposure, no-holds-barred* bonus episode, Neha and Shruti dive deep into the Mahabharat, starting out with its history, versions and adaptations, and of course, an in-depth discussion of the story and some key plot points with reference to The Palace of Illusions and The Great Indian Novels (our two selections for India). We discuss the concept of free will, feminism throughout history, Dalit stories and contributions, and expressions of gender identity in mythologic stories.

*We say this in jest, because Neha and Shruti are not in any way experts on Hindu scripture, South Asian history, or literature. However, we did do a lot of research, and we are passionate to share our love for this story with you all!

Books and Adaptations Mentioned:

Mahabharata by C. Rajagopalachari

Mahabharata: a Modern Retelling by Carole Satyamurti

The Mahabharata: A Shortened Modern Prose Version of the Indian Epic by RK Narayan

Mahabharat (1980-1988) a television series originally on Doordarshan

Mahabharat (2013) a television series originally on Star Plus, now streaming on Hulu

The Bhagavad Gita

Arjuna: Saga of a Pandava Warrior-Prince by Anuja Chandramouli

Karna's Wife: The Outcast's Queen by Kavita Kane

The Forest of Enchantments by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni

Sita: A Tale of Ancient Love by Bhanumathi Narasimhan

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Great Indian Novel by Shashi Tharoor

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 16:00:19 GMT

In this expansive debut novel by Shashi Tharoor, the characters and stories of the Mahabharat are transposed onto the Indian independence movement. Shruti and Neha start off with a detailed breakdown of who's who, the setting, and historical references. We then dive into the story, its allusions, the satire, and Tharoor's writing style. And of course, this episode wouldn't be complete unless we spilled the tea - and the tea is piping hot! We talk all about the controversy surrounding Shashi Tharoor, including the IPL scandal, and the death of his wife.

Shelf Discovery:

The Great Indian Novel by Shashi Tharoor

Neha - The Humans by Matt Haig

Shruti - none

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Palace of Illusions with Brown Girl Bookshelf

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 16:00:13 GMT

Combining myth, history, fantasy, and philosophy, The Palace of Illusions tells the story of Draupadi, wife of the Pandavas, in a retelling of the Indian epic the Mahabharat. Neha and Shruti discuss the themes of appearances, feminism, and assertiveness in the various characters, while digging in to the plot.

We also get to chat with our first podcast guest! Mishika is a co-founder of Brown Girl Bookshelf, a platform that celebrates South Asian writers and literature. She tells us about Divakaruni's latest novel, Independence, and we just had so much fun talking with her about books, reading, and life!

Shelf Discovery and Other Books Mentioned

The Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni

The Forest of Enchantments by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni

The Twentieth Wife by Indu Sundaresan

Kaikeyi by Vaishnavi Patel

Independence by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni

The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah

The Parted Earth by Anjali Enjeti

The Daughters of Madurai by Rajasree Variyar

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Ngozie Adichie: isolation and respect

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 16:00:36 GMT

In Half of a Yellow Sun, award-winning author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie chronicles the years leading up to the Nigerian Biafran war in the 1960s through the eyes of three main characters. Neha and Shruti explore the interactions between households and families in a time of immense political upheaval. We discuss the impact of the book, and more broadly, how these stories are told and how we interact with these texts.

Shelf Discovery:

Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Shruti - Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese

Neha - Stay with Me by Ayobami Adebayo, and Transcendent Kingdom by Yaa Gyasi

*Content warning: physical violence, sexual assault

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stolen by Ann-Helen Laestadius: silence and more silence

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 16:00:00 GMT

Stolen, by Ann-Helén Laestadius, is a mystery, thriller, coming-of-age story that completely captured our hearts. Shruti and Neha discuss some of the contextual elements of the book, discuss the theme of silence, and of course, break down the shocking ending! They also talk about themes of belonging, alienation, youth, the patriarchy, and mental health.

Links:

Interview with Ann-Helén Laestadius on Bookanista

Shelf discovery:

Stolen by Ann-Helén Laestadius

Neha - East by Edith Pattou

Shruti - Ceremony by Leslie Marmon Silko

*Content warning: animal cruelty, suicide

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fruit of the Drunken Tree by Ingrid Rojas Contreras: spaces and sacrifice

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 16:00:46 GMT

Neha and Shruti head to Colombia, delving into the world of Pablo Escobar and drug cartels as they discuss the second book of the season, Fruit of the Drunken Tree. We talk about the historical context in which this story is set while unpacking how the characters are affected by their sacrifices and the spaces they occupy. They also get into a discussion about the origins of the term ‘magical realism,’ and the questionable colonialist mindset that fuels the term’s use in today’s age.

Links:

Essay: What We Talk About When We Talk About Magical Realism

Shelf Discovery:

Fruit of the Drunken Tree by Ingrid Rojas Contreras

Shruti - Bel Canto by Ann Patchett; and Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close by Jonathan Safran Foer

Neha - Stay with Me by Ayobami Adebayo

*Content warning: sexual assault. Skip through 33:15-36:00 to skip this section

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Murmur of Bees by Sofia Segovia: faith and wonder

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 16:00:12 GMT

The Murmur of Bees is a lyrical novel set during the Mexican revolution about a special young boy and the family who adopts him. Neha and Shruti discuss themes of faith and wonder, good versus evil, and magic realism. They share what they loved about the book, while also touching on the importance of authorial intent, asking the question: is history still being written by the winners?

Shelf Discovery:

The Murmur of Bees by Sofia Segovia

Neha - The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles; and All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr

Shruti - Piranesi by Susanna Clarke; and Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Get to Know Us!

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 16:00:56 GMT

Finally, Shruti and Neha are answering all your burning questions! Listen in to find out more about us including the books we loved, books we hated, how we started this podcast, and (perhaps most importantly), the ultimate Harry Potter book ranking.

Books Mentioned:

Ready Player One by Ernest Cline

The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkein

Breakfast at Tiffany's by Truman Capote

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

The Princess Bride by William Goldman

The Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling

Holes by Louis Sachar

Eragon by Christopher Paolini

Anxious People by Fredrik Backman

Normal People by Sally Rooney

A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman

War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy

The Death of Ivan Ilyich by Leo Tolstoy

When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalinithi

Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry

The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Season 2 Intro: Around the World in 8-Tea Books

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 16:00:53 GMT

Shruti and Neha are traveling around the world! Through books, that is. In this episode we share our reading list, some important background for each of the books we’ve picked, and what we’re excited about for Season 2.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Season 1 Wrap: The American Dream - its history, evolution, and its representation in books

Sun, 21 May 2023 16:00:56 GMT

In our last episode before our summer hiatus, Neha and Shruti zoom out to look at the big picture. We discuss some broader themes that crop up in all of the books, including the city vs. the country, movement, safety, and hope. We also talk about the theme of season one, The American Dream - where it came from, how it has evolved, and how it may represent something new for the 21st century.

Books mentioned:

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith

Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi

Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng

Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry

Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles

The House of Mirth by Edith Wharton

Valley of the Dolls by Jacqueline Susann

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jazz by Toni Morrison: violence and ambition

Mon, 08 May 2023 20:00:07 GMT

Jazz, a lyrical and complex story about passion and fear in urban life, is one of Toni Morrison's most unique books. Neha and Shruti talk about violence and ambition as central themes, explore how Morrison draws on traditions of Black art and expression, and come away with more questions than answers.

Links:

Eight Works to Take in After or Alongside Toni Morrison's 'Jazz': New York Times article

Characteristics of Negro Expression: 1934 essay by Zora Neale Hurston, African-American novelist and anthropologist

Shelf Discovery:

Jazz by Toni Morrison

Shruti - Disgrace by J. M. Coetzee

Neha - none

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner: humor and expression

Sun, 23 Apr 2023 16:00:50 GMT

Shruti and Neha read and cry about Crying in H Mart, a memoir by Michelle Zauner, best known as singer and songwriter for Japanese Breakfast. We talk about the mother-daughter relationship, family dynamics in an Asian household, and the importance of food as an expression of love.

Links:

Crying in H Mart: essay by Michelle Zauner first published in the New Yorker

Choosing Forgiveness: essay by Michelle Zauner published in Harpers Bazaar

Shelf discovery:

Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner

Shruti - The Death of Ivan Ilyich by Leo Tolstoy; and Paula by Isabel Allende

Neha - Know My Name by Chanel Miller

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Last White Man by Mohsin Hamid: fear and grief

Sun, 09 Apr 2023 16:00:30 GMT

After reading The Last White Man, Neha and Shruti had mixed feelings. In this episode, we discuss the captivating idea behind the book, its questionable execution, and different ways that authors can play with a novel's form.

Shelf Discovery:

The Last White Man by Mohsin Hamid

Shruti - The Reluctant Fundamentalist by Mohsin Hamid

Neha - The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Passing part 2 and the Netflix Movie

Sun, 26 Mar 2023 16:00:20 GMT

We loved Passing so much that we had to do another episode. Shruti and Neha take a deep dive into the complicated relationship between Irene and Clare, discuss its parallels to Mean Girls, and ruminate some more on the book’s mysterious ending. We also discuss the 2021 Netflix movie adaptation.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Book Pair! Passing & The Vanishing Half

Sun, 12 Mar 2023 16:00:33 GMT

Neha and Shruti introduce their first book pair! Passing by Nella Larsen, and The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett, published nearly 100 years apart, perfectly complement one another as they both revolve around themes of race, discrimination, identity, and belonging. We discuss similarities and differences between the characters and their choices, compare our reading experiences, and gush over the beautiful writing.

Shelf Discovery

Passing by Nella Larsen

The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett

Neha - Quicksand by Nella Larsen; and A Woman is No Man by Etaf Rum

Shruti - A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Night Watchman by Louise Erdrich: power and resistance

Sun, 26 Feb 2023 17:00:53 GMT

In The Night Watchman, Louise Erdrich introduces us to a rich cast of characters in weaving a story based on her grandfather's fight against Native American dispossession. We work our way through some confusing moments of magical realism, and discuss the importance of passing on these kinds of stories to new generations of readers.

Shelf Discovery:

The Night Watchman by Louise Erdrich

Neha - One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez

Shruti - The Bean Trees by Barbara Kingsolver

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri: guilt and alienation

Sun, 12 Feb 2023 03:00:02 GMT

For our first book, Neha and Shruti discuss The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri - one of the first books we ever read that resonated with us as first generation immigrants, and third culture kids. We explore how our feelings have changed re-reading the book all these years later, and reflect on how relevant immigrant stories are to every generation.

Links:

The Death of the Author by Roland Barthes

Shelf Discovery:

The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri

Shruti - Passing by Nella Larsen; and Such a Long Journey by Rohinton Mistry

Neha - A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Prologue

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 00:45:48 GMT

Welcome to The Novel Tea! We are so excited to launch this podcast. In this short trailer, we introduce ourselves and give a brief overview of how our episodes will be structured. You'll also hear some teasers for the episodes to come. Stay tuned for book discussions coming soon, and follow us on Instagram @thenoveltea.pod to find out what our first book will be!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.