Pulitzer shot a man in his twenties and kept his political career. He invented yellow journalism. He treated newsboys so

badly there was a strike in 1899 (that's the Newsies). Then he died and left money to fund the prize that now bears his

name.

We also cover: this year's fiction winner Angel Down by Daniel Kraus (one sentence, the whole book), the $15,000 prize

that shocked us both, a quiet ethics controversy on this year's board, and the Newberry Award books that shaped us as

kids. 

Facts and Fictions is a cozy book club podcast where we talk about the books we're reading and the thoughts we have on them.

New Episodes Weekly!

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uncomfortable as it sounds. Morgan gives it her lowest rating in podcast history. We discuss what

McCurdy gets right, what made us squirm, and why we think this book has a very specific audience

that isn't us. Content warnings: grooming, underage relationships, neglectful parenting.

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nightstands, react to the wildly polarized Yesteryear discourse (plus the Anne Hathaway co-writing reveal),

debate celebrity book clubs in the wake of Oprah’s sale to Amazon, and get honest about why being online feels

different lately. Plus: Indie Bookstore Day spoils, a dopamine playlist, and one very firm endorsement of Devil

Wears Prada 2. Cozy up!

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Told entirely through letters and emails, the novel follows Sybil Van Antwerp — a sharp-tongued, fiercely private retired lawyer in her 70s who uses correspondence to make sense of her world. She writes to authors, neighbors, suitors, a customer service rep at a DNA testing company, her estranged daughter… and one mysterious recipient whose letters she never sends.

We're unpacking it all: why we were both skeptical of the epistolary format and how quickly the book won us over, Sybil as a complicated mother and an even more complicated woman, the DNA test storyline, the suitors (RIP Theodore's cat 💔), the gut-punch storyline with Desi and his father, the burden of grief Sybil has carried for decades, and what we hope the Jane Fonda film keeps intact.

Plus: our full fancast for the adaptation, our ratings, and a peek at the 15-ish books Sybil mentions throughout the novel — basically a built-in TBR list.

📖 Up next on the pod: HALF HIS AGE by Jennette McCurdy

⚠️ Spoiler warning: this is a full-book discussion. Read it first, then come hang.

🎧 New episodes every Sunday. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

📲 Follow along: @factsandfictionspod on Instagram, TikTok & YouTube

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In this Brief Encounters episode, Desiree and Morgan dig into Dan's story and the bigger questions it raises: What do the books we read say about who we are? Are there books that feel permanently stamped to specific seasons of your life? And has a book ever actually changed the way you live?

In this episode:

• The viral reading log that made us both emotional
• Books that timestamp your life — Twilight, Harry Potter release nights, a box of Goosebumps from a yard sale
• The DNF debate: is it okay to abandon a book?
• The return of analog habits and why they're good for your nervous system
• We build our dopamine menus live 🍽️
• Honorable mention reads: Evelyn Clarke and Yesteryear

Visit Dan's log yourself: what-dan-read.com

Facts & Fictions is a cozy book club podcast where we talk about the books we're reading and the thoughts we're having on them. New episodes weekly.

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

We're talking about Marissa: a mid-level marketing employee in Madrid who looks fine from the outside but is quietly dissolving on the inside. She's hiding in her office watching YouTube, surviving on tranquilizers, and dreading the corporate retreat that's about to push her over the edge.

In this episode we dig into:

✦ Why corporate burnout isn't just an American problem — and how uncomfortable that is to admit

✦ The connection between Discontent and My Year of Rest and Relaxation 

✦ Faking productivity, stealing ideas from interns, and the particular horror of the workplace retreat

✦ What this book gets right about loneliness and the need for real community

✦ That ending — and why it might actually be Marissa's happily ever after

✦ Fan cast picks for a potential adaptation

⭐ We gave it a 4–4.5 out of 5. It's a great read if you already love the "quietly falling apart" genre — but maybe not the one to hand a beginner reader. 

Facts & Fictions is a cozy book club podcast hosted by Desiree & Morgan. New episodes every week. Subscribe so you never miss one.

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

Storygraph: @desireereed @morgankline

Instagram: instagram.com/factsandfictionspod

Subscribe to Facts & Fictions for new episodes every other Sunday

📚 Books & things mentioned in this episode:

Before I Forget — Tori Hendwood Hoen

The Future Saints

Half His Age — Jeanette McCurdy

Remarkably Bright Creatures — Shelby Van Pelt

Wuthering Heights (upcoming film, Charli XCX soundtrack)

Project Hail Mary — Andy Weir (film adaptation March 2026)

The Astral Library

Heated Rivalry — Emily Rath (TV adaptation)

Photographer: Sylvester Mako

Facts & Fictions is a cozy book club podcast dropping new episodes every Sunday. Subscribe so you never miss one.

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

“It’s about two down and out kids, one of them is good at school “American golden child,” one of them is a mouthy burnout lesbian who everyone hates because she won’t stop talking about periods. At night they escape their houses and they run out into the desert to go climb shitty sandbag boulders in an obscure parking lot together spotting each other and lighting the climbs with flashlights and joking and talking about life. So it’s about having this passion, and something you want to pursue as a young person but being a little too down and out to really pursue it safely.”

We discuss the intense family dynamics, the eternal battles Dan & Tamma face, and our thoughts on the book as a whole. 

If you've read Crux we would love to know your thoughts!

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We explored the moral gray area of when did Cora and Elliot's friendship cross the line? Did Cora go out seeking an affair or did she stumble into it?

Please note: we record under the assumption that listeners have already read the book - there are spoilers in the episode, so save listening for later if The Ten Year affair is still on your TBR.

Want to reach out with questions, comments, or book suggestions for future episodes? Find us at factsandfictionspod@gmail.com

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What does it mean to be a reader in 2026? Are attention spans really shrinking? Can books still change us? And where does artificial intelligence fit into all of it?

In this conversation, we reflect on the cultural moment around reading — what’s shifting, what concerns us, and what gives us hope.

Brief Encounters is our short-form series where we unpack essays, articles, and big ideas shaping the literary world.

If you care about reading culture, the future of books, and the evolving role of storytelling, this one’s for you.

✨ New episodes every other Sunday

📚 Book Discussions + Brief Encounters + Overdue for a Chat

Reading is better when you talk about it.

Let us know your thoughts in the comments — is reading in crisis, or just changing?

Mentioned articles:

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/12/12/us/high-school-english-teachers-assigning-books.html

https://www.newyorker.com/culture/open-questions/whats-happening-to-reading

https://psyche.co/ideas/reading-books-is-not-just-a-pleasure-it-helps-our-minds-to-heal

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In this episode of Facts & Fictions, we dive into The Midnight Library by Matt Haig — a genre-bending novel that blends literary fiction, speculative fantasy, and mental health exploration. We discuss Nora Seed’s journey through infinite alternate lives, how the book handles themes like regret, choice, and depression, and whether it lives up to the hype.

Join us for thoughtful conversation, personal reflections, and our honest take on one of the most talked-about books of the last few years.

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After taking a break from self-help books, Morgan and Desiree are diving into this viral release that’s been making waves across social media.

Is “just let them” really the key to less stress and more peace—or just another catchy phrase?

💬 Let us know in the comments — have you read the book? Did the “Let Them” mindset shift anything for you?

📚 Books Mentioned:

• The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins

👍 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more thoughtful book conversations every week.

#MelRobbins #LetThemTheory #SelfHelpBooks #FactsAndFictionsPodcast #BookReview #PersonalDevelopment

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In this episode, Morgan and Desiree dive into Remarkably Bright Creatures, Shelby Van Pelt’s heartwarming debut novel about connection, grief, and one remarkably clever octopus. We unpack the story, discuss the themes of loneliness and healing, and share our thoughts on how Marcellus the octopus completely stole the show.

Join us for a cozy conversation filled with honest reflections, big feelings, and a little marine magic.

📚 Got thoughts on the book? Drop a comment — we’d love to hear what you think!

🔗 Subscribe for more bookish convos

📸 Follow us on Instagram: @factsandfictionspod

🎧 Listen on Spotify/Apple/etc

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In this episode, Morgan and Desiree dive into Sally Rooney’s latest novel, Intermezzo—a poignant exploration of grief, family tension, and complicated love. The story follows brothers Peter and Ivan as they navigate life after their father’s death, confronting their strained relationship and romantic entanglements with Sylvia, Naomi, and Margaret.

Morgan and Desiree unpack the novel’s emotionally charged dynamics, reflect on their own experiences with loss, and share their thoughts on literary fiction as a genre. 📖✨ They also discuss Rooney’s signature style, the power of character-driven storytelling, and what Intermezzo reveals about love, sorrow, and human connection.

If you love literary fiction, book clubs, and lively discussions, this episode is for you! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave a comment with your thoughts on Intermezzo!

🎧 Listen on your favorite podcast platform or on YouTube!

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This week on the pod, Desiree & Morgan dive into The Wedding People by Alison Espach! 🎉 From its sharp humor to its heartfelt exploration of love, loneliness, and unexpected connections, we break down what makes this novel such a compelling read.

Join us as we discuss:

💍 The novel’s unique take on weddings & relationships

📖 Character deep dives & their emotional journeys

😂 The humor vs. heartbreak balance

🔥 Our favorite (and least favorite!) moments

If you love literary fiction, book clubs, and lively discussions, this episode is for you! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave a comment with your thoughts on The Wedding People!

🎧 Listen on your favorite podcast platform or on YouTube!

#TheWeddingPeople #AlisonEspach #BookClub #Podcast #LiteraryFiction #Books #Bookish #ReadingCommunity #FictionLovers

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Freida McFadden is back with more shocking twists, locked doors, and jaw-dropping secrets! In this episode, your hosts Desiree & Morgan dive into The Housemaid’s Secret and The Housemaid is Watching—books 2 and 3 in The Housemaid series. Are they just as addictive as the first book? Do the twists live up to the hype? And does McFadden still have us on the edge of our seats?

Join us as we break down the drama, the mystery, and that ending!

📚 Books Discussed:

✔ The Housemaid’s Secret by Freida McFadden

✔ The Housemaid is Watching by Freida McFadden

🎧 Listen, subscribe, and let us know your thoughts in the comments! Have you read these books? Did the twists shock you?

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more bookish discussions!

📩 Follow Desiree & Morgan for more book talk: @factsandfictionspod on Instagram and Tiktok

🎙️ Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & anywhere you listen to podcasts!

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In this episode, Desiree & Morgan dive into The Housemaid, the psychological thriller that’s been everywhere. We’re breaking down the jaw-dropping twists, eerie Winchester house vibes, and whether this book truly lived up to the hype. 👀

Was it unputdownable or just another predictable thriller? Let’s discuss! 🤯

📖 Spoilers ahead! If you’ve read The Housemaid, drop your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear what you think! Haven’t read it yet? Proceed with caution… 🚪

💬 Join the conversation:

•Did you see that twist coming?

•What would YOU do in Millie’s shoes?

•Are you picking up The Housemaid’s Secret next?

🎧 Subscribe for more bookish discussions! Like & comment if you enjoyed this episode—we love connecting with fellow readers.

🔔 New episodes every other Sunday!

📌 Follow us for more book talk:

📸 Instagram: @factsandfictionspod

#TheHousemaid #FreidaMcFadden #ThrillerBooks #BookPodcast #BookDiscussion #PsychologicalThriller

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We delve into the novel’s exploration of loneliness, longing, and the seductive power of belonging. How does Cline’s lush prose capture the innocence and darkness of Evie’s journey? What does The Girls say about the vulnerability of adolescence and the blurred lines between empowerment and manipulation?

Desiree and Morgan reflect on the novel’s chilling atmosphere, its timeless themes, and the enduring fascination with cult dynamics.

Please note that we do record under the assumption that you've read the book and do discuss details and spoilers freely!

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Join us as we explore themes of love, friendship, and the tricky balance between pursuing your own happiness and meeting the expectations of others. From laugh-out-loud moments to gut-punch emotional truths, we discuss how Happy Place captures the joy and messiness of modern relationships.

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We explore themes of grief, privilege, self-destruction, and the complex desire for reinvention. Is the narrator’s year of sleep a search for healing or an ultimate act of detachment? How does Moshfegh’s razor-sharp prose keep us hooked on such a polarizing protagonist?

Desiree and Morgan share their thoughts on the book’s unforgettable characters, uncomfortable humor, and the larger questions it raises about modern existence.

Please note: we record under the assumption that you've read the book and do discuss details and spoilers freely!!

Want to reach out with book suggestions for our next episode? Find us at factsandfictionspod@gmail.com

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