Kimberly Ford - Podcast Details

Shows

The Foxed PageLecture 99: The Mobius Book by Catherine Lacey >> Whether you were wowed by this inventive fiction-memoir or a little disappointed, allow Kimberly to help you dig deeper into this original text.NO SPOILERS! Kimberly picked up this hybrid memoir-novel because she was intrigued by Lacey's inventiveness. Listen in to see which parts of the text met her high expectations and which might have fallen a bit short. And if you haven't thought through the difference between a mobius strip and the infinity symbol, Kimberly promises to add a little insight to your Mobius Book experience..2025-07-3040 min

The Foxed PageLecture 98: SLAUGHTERHOUSE FIVE by Kurt Vonnegut >> Everyone, honestly, should (re)read this book. It's dark, hilarious, impactful, moving, urgent, inventive and more. Allow Kimberly to show you why the it's so important and so good.There are SO MANY REASONS why so many people love this book. Allow Kimberly to help you see how Vonnegut's deceptively simple prose does so much heavy lifting. She dives deep into the book's structure, its sci-fi elements and its humor. She really wants to share her take on why this groundbreaking, post-modern classic is so much more than its postmodern peers. Listen in now for an immersion into one of Time's best 100 novels of the past 100 years.2025-07-231h 00

The Foxed PageLecture 98: THE TRANSIT OF VENUS by Shirley Hazzard >> People. This is one of Kimberly's very most favorite books. Her most recent trip through it felt like a GIFT. Indulge yourself now!Hazzard's 1980 novel is one of the most gorgeous, most intricate, most rewarding, most RICH novels that Kimberly has ever read. Listen in to hear her explain how its nimble narrator, its figurative language and its singular, masterful structure--among many other elements--make it SO worth your while.2025-07-131h 12

The Foxed PageLecture 96: THE ANTIDOTE (by Karen Russell) in the context of Magic Realism, Historical Fiction and Truth! >> Did this ambitious novel leave you with any questions? Allow Kimberly to maybe supply some answers! (Or—ha!—maybe more questions!)Magic realism is an excellent way to articulate the inarticulable, to assert dissent, and to question order. Historical fiction is an amazing vehicle for examination of the past! Join Kimberly for a discussion of Russell’s novel in the context of Gabriel García Márquez, Isabel Allende, and even Mary Karr. You’ll come away with a better understanding of The Antidote, while gaining a broader sense of how TRUTH sometimes functions well in fiction and sometimes falls short. 2025-07-1140 min

The Foxed PageLecture 94: ORBITAL by Samantha Harvey >> For whatever reason, Kimberly was reluctant to pick up this book. She is SO glad she did.Orbital is the kind of novel that could inspire hours and hours of conversation. Kimberly can't imagine a single person who feels like they apprehended the thing with just one read. If you're curious about how she pulled it off, how she uses language to describe the undescribable, or plenty of other aspects--indulge yourself in a more fulsome experience of this gorgeous Booker Prize winner now!2025-06-241h 02

The Foxed PageREADING CHALLENGE 1b: PART TWO of To The Lighthouse by Virginia Woolf >> No novel keeps giving like this novel. Kimberly spends a delicious hour digging in to this complex literature-changing masterpiece.People. This is when things get fun. Kimberly breaks down a bunch of aspects of the work: figurative language, the unique structure, patriarchy v. matriarchy, the very nature of creativity and the essence of what it is to be human (!!). Want to get more out of this insanely great book? Treat yourself now. 2025-06-041h 02

The Foxed PageLecture 91: THE HUSBANDS by Holly Gramazio >> You've heard Kimberly talk about how hard it is to write humor. Gramazio shows us how it's done!NO SPOILERS! With humor as a lens, Kimberly dives in to all the ways this bestseller functions so well. You'll learn how to think about humor more generally, while seeing all the ways that the best humor can really shape a novel. Join Kimberly for an exploration of one of the strongest elements of this smart, engaging surprisingly philosophical book!2025-05-1654 min

The Foxed PageEpisode 89: ANNA KARENINA >> Intimidated??? DON'T be! Just let Kimberly tell you all the reasons these 1,000 pages are great.NO READING REQUIRED! Whether this doorstop is an old favorite--or something you NEVER plan to read--treat yourself to Kimberly's take on why this classic of all classics is worth your next 40 minutes!2025-04-1039 min

The Foxed Page100th Anniversary REPOST: THE GREAT GATSBY >> We all need to get back to the GENIUS novel that was wasted on us in high school? No rereading! Let Kimberly remind you of the greatness of this meditation on the (sometimes complex) AMERICAN DREAM.NO READING REQUIRED! Fitzgerald's genius might very well be wasted on the youth. Even if you haven't re-read this classic since you were 16, delving into for an hour is a revelation. Kimberly breaks down the innovative narrative stance, the plot-heavy structure and some master-class motif building--all while reveling in (and also subtly criticizing) this modernist MASTERPIECE.2025-04-071h 10

The Foxed PageEpisode 87: SEX WRITING, AGE-GAP RELATIONSHIPS and PLAYWORLD by Adam RossTune in for Kimberly's breakdown of how PLAYWORLD really succeeds--and the ways she sees it falling short. With its marketing materials really pushing its 36-year-old-woman/14-year-old-boy sexualized relationship, the novel provides a fascinating look at sex writing and how the Mrs.-Robinson trope manifests itself in 2025. Join Kimberly for this second of four lectures--the only novel of the four written by a man--which maybe shouldn't matter?? But also really might.2025-03-2645 min

The Foxed PageEpisode 86: SEX WRITING, AGE-GAP RELATIONSHIPS and INTERMEZZO by Sally Rooney (1 of 4 upcoming lectures!)With good sex writing, and TWO age-gap relationships, INTERMEZZO offers Kimberly all sorts of ways to think about female sexual desire. Listen in to hear what Kimberly LOVES about this latest Rooney, and where she thinks the novel fell SHORT.The first of a series of four lectures that will explore Adam Ross's PLAYWORLD, Annie Ernaux's THE YOUNG MAN and Kate Chopin's THE AWAKENING, Kimberly's deep dives will elucidate not only the novel at hand, but larger, timely questions about (older) women and sex.2025-03-201h 09

The Foxed PageLecture 85: THE ONCE AND FUTURE KING by T. H. White >> NO READING REQUIRED! Lose yourself as Kimberly walks you through the genius of this CAMELOT CLASSIC. Need an escape? One that's smart, inventive and funny? Listen in!White published the four-part volume in 1938 and 1958--all in the shadow of WWII. If he only knew how well the chaos of that historical moment would mirror 2025! This 700-page novel is haunting, intelligent, absorbing and charming. NO NEED TO READ the book. Just treat yourself to Kimberly's wander through it now!2025-03-121h 16

The Foxed PageLecture 84: Lucia Berlin's "Carpe Diem" from A MANUAL FOR CLEANING WOMEN >> Join Kimberly for a SPECIAL look at one story by the master of the form!In this special lecture honoring a story from one of the BEST BOOKS OF THE CENTURY (according to the New York Times), Kimberly proves that it's FASCINATING to parse a five-and-a-half page story for almost an hour. In fact, there was a lot MORE she wanted to discuss. This deep dive, though, will give you an even better sense of just WHY Berlin's work is so so good.2025-03-0454 min

The Foxed PageLecture 81: The most important book YOU DO NOT NEED TO READ: Don Quijote de La ManchaKimberly LOVES this classic of all classics--largely held as the first modern novel. Cervantes's 1605 masterpiece is not only colorful, hilarious, smart and unique but it includes all the elements that would go on to shape the modern novel. Let Kimberly tell you all about these crucial elements while giving you a good taste of the Spaniard's amazing prose. She also argues why this hour-long lecture might be all the Quijote you need! Listen in now!2025-02-031h 05

The Foxed PageLecture 80: Aysegul Savas's THE ANTHROPOLOGISTS >> Need an escape?? Immerse yourself in an hour of Kimberly parsing all the ways that this meditative, warm, escapist book--with its wholly unique premise--offers so much.Good books provide inspiration, compassion, consolation, edification...and ESCAPE. If you're a little weary of the world right now, dig into the very smart pages of THE ANTHROPOLOGISTS. This slim novel's unique, destabilizing premise could feel gimmicky in lesser hands, but Savas manages to intrigue, all while throwing into relief the basic desires of every reader. Kimberly found SO MUCH depth to explore. Join us now! NO PRE-READING NECESSARY!2025-01-281h 18

The Foxed PageLecture 79: GOOD MATERIAL by DOLLY ALDERTON >> Witness Kimberly's HOTTEST TAKE since starting the podcast. She loved Alderton's book so much she couldn't help but add some out-there conjecture to her usual astute, entertaining analysis.When The NY Times named Alderton's GOOD MATERIAL one of the best 10 books of 2024, Kimberly knew it was time to dig in. Listen as she deepens your understanding of the male narrative voice, the excellent figurative language, the supposed "double ending" and Alderton's CRUCIAL SUBVERSION of the marriage plot. Tune in to Kimberly's argument for why this (anti)-rom-com (?!) BELONGS in the company of literary heavyweights like Miranda July's ALL FOURS, Percival Everett's JAMES and Álvaro Enrigue's YOU DREAMED OF EMPIRES. Finally, DO NOT MISS Kimberly's hottest of hot takes!2025-01-171h 04

The Foxed PageREPOST: Agatha Christie! (and her Midwinter Murder!) (NO READING REQUIRED!)Tune in to hear how detective novels are inherently conservative but why Kimberly LOVES CHRISTIE ANYWAY. You'll learn why the "queen of crime" is so exceptional and why it should be no surprise that she's the best-selling writer OF ALL TIME (except Shakespeare and the Bible...). Also--see which volume is the perfect gift for everyone on your holiday list.2024-12-0956 min

The Foxed PageHoliday Repost: Robin Wall Kimmerer's BRAIDING SWEETGRASS >> Did you love this when it came out? Did you mean to read it but didn't quite? Allow Kimberly to remind you of the CRUCIAL WISDOM Wall Kimmerer imparts!Braiding Sweetgrass is one of those books we should be going back to again and again. If you don't quite have the time to do that, Kimberly will give you a hand. Want to feel like you could maybe help make the world a slightly better place in some small way?? Want to feel better about the environment?? Want to feel inspired and informed--with sometimes RADICAL new ways to conceptualize the world? Listen in!2024-11-2832 min

The Foxed PageREPOST: Five-Minute Recommendation of James Joyce’s DUBLINERSKimberly will share whether you should—or should not—dig into Dubliners. She’ll treat you to a snippet of the prose to give you a sense of the work, but for a deeper analysis, check out the lecture.2024-11-2506 min

The Foxed PageREPOST: James Joyce’s DUBLINERS >> And finally, Ireland's literary giant. This NO-READING-REQUIRED lecture will give you even more depth in your understanding of Ireland--all while making you feel smarterKimberly focuses on creepy, haunting “An Encounter” before her deep dive into the keystone work, the subtle, sad, masterful “The Dead.” Find out how Joyce’s prose changed the face of literature, and how his portrayal of the Irish is actually a portrayal of EVERYONE.2024-11-251h 36

The Foxed PageREPOST: Five-Minute Recommendation for Anna Burns’s MILKMAN >> SAY NOTHING devotees, here's another AMAZING novel.Kimberly will share whether you should—or should not—dig into Milkman. She’ll treat you to a snippet of the prose to give you a sense, but for deeper analysis, check out the lecture.2024-11-2306 min

The Foxed PageREPOST: Anna Burns's MILKMAN >> Another one for SAY NOTHING fans! A CHALLENGE this time. Burns's novel about Northern Ireland is an absolute MASTERPIECE.One of the more rewarding books Kimberly has read, Milkman is dark, dense and AMAZING. Join Kimberly for a more profound understanding of the novel’s political importance, its incredibly effective humor and other elements that make this book feel so IMPORTANT.2024-11-231h 51

The Foxed PageREPOST: 5-Minute Recommendation for Claire Keegan’s FOSTER >> Loving the tv series SAY NOTHING?? This masterful (very short) novel might be even more engrossing!Kimberly will share whether you should—or should not—dig into Foster. She’ll treat you to a snippet of the prose to give you a sense, but for a deeper analysis, check out the lecture.2024-11-2207 min

The Foxed PageREPOST: Claire Keegan's FOSTER >> Anyone loving SAY NOTHING should take the (minimal) time to read this INCREDIBLE (and very short) novel.This very brief novella is a masterclass of the form. You will be so moved by this amazing, slight masterpiece. In part one, Kimberly will argue why you should read it, take a quick dip into Keegan’s bio., and discuss the title and opening pages.2024-11-2241 min

The Foxed PageLecture 74: Gabriel García Márquez's ONE HUNDRED YEARS OF SOLITUDE >> If you're one of the millions who love this book--or if you didn't quite get all the hype--listen in to Kimberly's take on why it's massively important.Garcia Marquez changed literature with the 1967 publication of this surreal, ultra-popular, deeply engaging novel. Kimberly LOVED diving in to the context in which it was written, the way it fits into literary movements and why it's so groundbreaking. And if you're one of the people who couldn't keep all the generations of José Arcadios and Aurelianos straight, Kimberly will reveal a grad-school level secret that will help with this novel--and every challenging book you read.2024-10-1453 min

The Foxed PageLecture 71: THE PERFECT COUPLE!! The novel AND TV ADAPTATION! >> On Sept 5, Netflix will air what looks like an AMAZING, star-studded, darkly comic HIT! Listen in to why the NOVEL will translate so well to the small screen!Listen in to Kimberly explaining why Hilderbrand's dialogue, structuring, subplots and sense of place will make this show SO GOOD. With juicy details gleaned from lots of sleuthing, Kimberly will get you ready to watch on SEPTEMBER 5!2024-09-021h 03

The Foxed PageLecture 69: Liz Moore's THE GOD OF THE WOODS >> Feel like you fully appreciated what makes this thriller so good? Kimberly wants to point out a few points when you might've been too engrossed to notice!NO SPOILERS! (Obviously. It's s thriller.) This novel was so well done that Kimberly couldn't wait to analyze all the reasons it works so well. The most fun, though, might have been picking out the exceptions that prove the rule: Liz Moore is so good!2024-08-191h 08

The Foxed PageREPOST: Rachel Khong's GOODBYE, VITAMIN >> You've seen REAL AMERICANS on every bookstore front table lately? That's because Khong is SO GOOD. Listen in to hear what makes Khong's work so approachable, smart and deeply affecting.Kimberly loved GOODBYE, VITAMIN so much that she's elated to see Khong's latest getting so much attention. Until Kimberly works through her stack and gets to REAL AMERICANS, listen in to this 30-minute intro to Khong's bio, her prose, and all the ways that the opening page of GOODBYE will help you more fully appreciate her insanely great work.2024-08-1533 min

The Foxed PageLecture 68: James Baldwin's GIOVANNI'S ROOM >> It's a crime that Kimberly JUST read this novel for the first time. She was shocked at the crazy abundance of figurative language. Take a listen to more fully COMPREHEND this slim book!There are SO many reasons to read (or REREAD) this slim, gorgeous, Paris-based novel. Kimberly argues that an amazing way to more fully understand the book is to view it through Baldwin's genius use of figurative language. Listen in now!2024-08-0858 min

The Foxed PageLecture 67: Kimberly's TOP TEN books of the 21st century! >> The New York Times did NOT ask Kimberly for her top ten when they made their list, but here they are! Tune in to see how your favorites compare!It was VERY hard for Kimberly to decide on a top ten. So there are five runners-up. She assumed it would be impossible to RANK the top ten, but in a spur-of-the-moment decision, she attempts it. Tune in to see how your list compares!2024-08-0526 min

The Foxed PageLecture 66: Lucia Berlin's A MANUAL FOR CLEANING WOMEN >> Kimberly would almost give this an ELEVEN. Listen in as she explains why this collection deserves to be read over and over and over again!People. This collection is SO FUNNY and SO DARK. It's unlike any other writing. Whether you've read it or are considering diving in after the book was selected as one of the best of the century, listen in as Kimberly helps understand how this woman pulls it OFF.2024-07-2949 min

The Foxed PageLecture 65: FORTY-SIX of the New York Times's 100 BEST BOOKS OF THE CENTURY >> Have you read the same titles as Kimberly? Is she about to deeply offend you by panning your favorite?? Listen in to see!Kimberly zips through the 46 books she's read, giving a rating to every one. Check it OUT!2024-07-2549 min

The Foxed PageLecture 63b: Akbar's MARTYR! (the ENDING) >> If you think you fully understood the nuance of Kaveh Akbar's (possible double) ending, you might be crazy.Allow Kimberly to point out the intricacies, the nuance, the FACTS of what Akbar is really saying at the end of his insanely great novel. Tune in to hear Kimberly argue a few sides of this coin. She follows Daniel Mendelsohn's advice to treat literature like a social science: look carefully at the DATA. If you're like all the folks on the internet who have real questions about this novel's close, you're in the right place.2024-07-1154 min

The Foxed PageLecture 63a: Kaveh Akbar's MARTYR! >> Anyone who thinks they've comprehended this masterpiece in one read is insane. Allow Kimberly to help you appreciate why it deserves extensive further thought!People. This is one of the most intense reading experiences Kimberly has had in ages. The book is so smart, so warm and funny and complicated, that Kimberly realized it deserves two lectures! This first one focuses on the narrative stance, the inventiveness, the humor and complicated compendium-like structure (and a possible small debt to David Foster Wallace). The SECOND lecture (coming soon) tackles the novel's insanely great, ambiguous, enigmatic ENDING.2024-07-081h 22

The Foxed PageLecture 62: Elin Hilderbrand's SWAN SONG >> Have an extra good time with the queen of the beach read's LAST NANTUCKET NOVEL.NO SPOILERS! What's summer without a good beach read? By the QUEEN of the beach read?? Kimberly was somewhat alarmed that Hilderbrand is "hanging up her bikini" but thank god we have 26 other Nantucket novels to choose from. People, Hilderbrand is SO GOOD at this stuff. Listen in to find out why her narrative stance, atmospheric elements and structure make these books so solid. (Also: Kimberly has just a few teeny quibbles). There's no such thing as "guilty pleasure" where Hilderbrand is concerned--she's just so good at this stuff!2024-07-051h 10

The Foxed PageREPOST: Arthur Lobel’s FROG AND TOAD >> Kimberly hates to self-aggrandize, but this might be some of her finest work.Kimberly adds her voice to the important chorus extolling Frog and Toad. She explains how structure, monosyllabic word choice, vowel sounds and syntax all combine to result in PROFOUND resonance. She also illuminates how queer elements of the work make reading Lobel not only a nostalgic delight, but an important act.2024-06-2144 min

The Foxed PageREPOST: Daniel Mason's NORTH WOODS >> Is this sitting on your nightstand?? Dust it off! Kimberly's about to tell you all the reasons you'll LOVE this book.NO READING NECESSARY! Think of this talk as a primer that will ensure you won't miss any of the ZILLION REASONS why North Woods was on all those best-of-2023 lists. This novel is so engrossing and wide reaching. It's smart and rich and just plain fun to read. Listen as Kimberly points out aspects you do not want to miss. Already read it? You'll love this even more!2024-06-071h 24

The Foxed PageLecture 57: Hernán Díaz's TRUST >> Is it possible you missed some of the genius nuance in this four-books-in-one novel?? Whether you've read it or are gearing up to--Kimberly will make sure you get the MOST out of it.Díaz's Pulitzer-prize-winning, Booker-nominated TRUST has the kind of complex structure Kimberly LOVES to dig into. With vastly differing narrative voices, each of the four texts informs the others, making for an insanely rich read. Also: this exploration of the American dream could not be more timely!2024-06-0358 min

The Foxed PageREPOST: Cormac McCarthy's The Passenger and Stella Maris >> Buckle up, readers. Kimberly's finally indulging herself (and YOU) in an extra-deep-dive lecture on one of her favorite writers of all time.Tune in for close readings that illuminate why McCarthy's prose is so gorgeous, why his influences are key, and why Kimberly is so happy about him finally centering A WOMAN in these, his final texts.Plus! A literary PARLOR TRICK that definitively proves Kimberly's hot-take thesis about digression in The Passenger.2024-05-241h 51

The Foxed PageLecture 50: John Steinbeck's EAST OF EDEN >> Want to see Kimberly conjure John Steinbeck from the dead?? Ever wondered why so many people LOVE EAST OF EDEN? Allow Kimberly to explain why it deserves to be such a perennial favorite. NO RE-READING REQUIRED!NO RE-READING REQUIRED! PLUS!! SPECIAL GUEST STAR: JOHN STEINBECK!! Tune in to hear all the ways in which this 1952 classic surprised Kimberly. Its insanely great sense of place, its lessons in history, its denigration/elevation of women, its biblical underpinnings...Kimberly's list of its attributes could go on and on. Whether EAST OF EDEN is your favorite of all time, or whether you have only hazy ninth-grade memories of Lenny squeezing that bunny in OF MICE AND MEN--tune in to hear why Steinbeck really deserved that Nobel Prize.2024-05-061h 02

The Foxed PageREPOST: Nancy Mitford’s THE PURSUIT OF LOVE>> Never read any Nancy Mitford?? Don't know about the six fabled Mitford sisters??!! Listen in to hear why you'll get so much out of this post-War gem!NO PRE-READING REQUIRED! This iconic novel from 1945 seems frothy and hilarious–and it is–but it's also a legitimate literary masterpiece. (Plus the BBC three-part tv series is sooooo good.) In part one, Kimberly will argue why you should read the book, dip into Mitford’s fascinating biography, and dive into the opening of the work. (For parts 2 and 3 of the lecture, scroll down in the list of episodes.)2024-04-2235 min

The Foxed PageREPOST: Lecture 7: Joan Didion’s The White Album Part 1 > Learn why Didion is such an icon and why her inimitable prose means so much to so many people!Didion needs almost no description. Kimberly argues why you should read this seminal work, touches on Didion’s biography then digs into why her engaging, dark, entirely inimitable prose is almost universally respected. (For parts 2 and 3 of this lecture, scroll down through the episodes to Lecture 7!)2024-04-1229 min

The Foxed PageREPOST: Dorothy Baker’s CASSANDRA AT THE WEDDING > Find out why literally NO ONE to whom Kimberly recommends this 1962 novel about identical 21-year-old twins in California is disappointed.Kimberly always describes Cassandra at the Wedding as a near-perfect novel. From Baker’s insanely great use of figurative language to nostalgia for the Berkeley and the Central Valley of the early 60s, to an incisive exploration of individuation in the case of identical twins–the novel is a huge crowd pleaser every time Kimberly teaches it. (NOTE: this lecture kind of assumes you've read (or are reading) the novel. There are likely references to spoilers. If you're trying to get a sense of the book, maybe check out the five-minute recommendation further down in the episode list!)2024-04-011h 28

The Foxed PageLecture 44: Melinda Taub's THE SCANDALOUS CONFESSIONS OF LYDIA BENNET, WITCH > Let Kimberly (and Taub) answer all the questions about Pride and Prejudice that you didn't even know you had!Ever wondered what the Bennet family BLACK SHEEP was actually up to? Wonder no more! Taub's juicy, witchy novel is so well done. Listen as Kimberly explains how Taub's witchy-ness is an important feminist statement! Even if you aren't a huge Jane Austen fan (Kimberly herself isn't completely rabid) Taub's work is so worth your while!2024-03-2751 min

The Foxed PageREPOST: Judy Blume's ARE YOU THERE GOD? IT'S ME, MARGARET>> Seriously, who needs a reason to revisit this touchstone?? Find out why this classic is such a literary feat!Your 12-year-old self will come rushing right back–in the very best of ways! Kimberly digs in to the excellent prose, why MARGARET has never been out of print, and all the ways the novel is more about deep, engaging, questions than it is about periods.2024-03-1545 min

The Foxed PageEpisode 41: Jesmyn Ward's LET US DESCEND > Readers, Kimberly LOVED this rewriting of Dante's Divine Comedy. Listen to why this best seller DESERVES its place on all those BEST OF 2023 lists!Kimberly was really moved by Salvage the Bones. Tune in to find out why Ward's work just keeps getting better and better.2024-03-041h 08

The Foxed PageREPOST: Sally Rooney's BEAUTIFUL WORLD WHERE ARE YOU >> Honestly? Kimberly did not love Conversations with Friends. She dove into this to figure out why Rooney left her a tad cold. She ended up with serious appreciation–while also discovering the thing!Description: Rooney is obviously part of Kimberly's Irish lit. obsession and after watching Paul Mescal in Normal People she needed to dig back in. The deep dive did into BEAUTIFUL WORLD not disappoint! Listen to hear all she discovered.2024-02-231h 34

The Foxed PageREPOST: Gustave Flaubert's MADAME BOVARYListen in as Kimberly explains all the ways the novel changed literature forever. She explores realism, Flaubert’s revolutionary narrative stance and just what to make of wacky Emma–this REAL HOUSEWIFE from 1856.2024-02-121h 35

The Foxed PageREPOST: Gabrielle Zevin’s TOMORROW AND TOMORROW AND TOMORROWPeople. This book is soooooo good. Listen in to learn about the genius of the title, the impact of Zevin’s intertexts and the nuance of the structure. But almost more importantly, find out how Kimberly ALMOST MISSED THIS INCREDIBLE BOOK because she didn’t “give a shit about teenaged gamers.”2024-02-021h 49

The Foxed PageLecture 37: Margaret Kennedy's THE FEASTKimberly's pretty convinced that THE FEAST is a perfect novel. Published in 1950, this rich, hilarious, dark page-turner concerns a group of guests at a Cornwall inn where everything is about to go TERRIBLY WRONG. Tune in to hear Kimberly elucidate Kennedy's incredible structure, narrative voice, use of intrigue and so much more.2024-01-291h 20

The Foxed PageLecture 36: Madeline Miller’s CIRCEDid you read CIRCE in 2018 when it was an instant #1 NYT bestseller? If not, Kimberly is SO jealous of the reading experience you have in store. This re-writing of the myth (you do NOT need to love mythology to love the book) is SO GOOD. If you've read it, Kimberly will remind you of how amazing it is--all while deepening your appreciation of Miller's absolute genius. 2024-01-191h 20

The Foxed PageLecture 33: Claire Keegan's So Late in the DayMORE CLAIRE KEEGAN! Kimberly dives deep into the title story of this new collection to further reveal Claire Keegan's GENIUS.2024-01-081h 28

The Foxed PageLecture 32: Lessons in ChemistryBeaming in from her pantry, Kimberly explains why she wasn't drawn to this run-away bestseller--and why she ultimately found it so satisfying! If you loved the book, or the tv show, listen in to see WHY Lessons is actually a very solid literary achievement.2023-12-111h 15

The Foxed PageLecture 28: Like Water for Chocolate (now in English!)This gem from 1992 REALLY HOLDS UP. Allow Kimberly to remind you why this entertaining novel--built around a matriarchal, domestic romance during the Mexican Revolution--was such a bestseller. With a weird number of funny and PRACTICAL digressions, the lecture celebrates this part-soap-opera (think Jane the Virgin!), part-cookbook (try a recipe!), part-send-up and part-family-saga.2023-11-091h 07

The Foxed PageLecture 27: the foxed page EN ESPANOL: Como aqua para chocolateGet Kimberly's take on this early-90s classic while PRACTICING YOUR SPANISH! This soapopera-esque matriarchal saga set against the Mexican revolution really holds up. Listen in to find out why. ¡Ándate pues!2023-11-0641 min

The Foxed PageLecture 26: the foxed page talks TELEVISION; David Milch, Pete Dexter and SHAKESPEARE: Deadwood, the TV series.In this PLATINUM AGE of television, Kimberly looks at the masterful language, the deft historical elements and the incredible Shakespearean airs of one of the best TV series of all time: David Milch's DEADWOOD.2023-11-0150 min

The Foxed PageEpisode 14: DEADWOOD (the novel):Kimberly hates to be self-aggrandizing but she honestly thinks this might be some of her VERY BEST WORK. Pete Dexter's DEADWOOD is an absolutely gorgeous, warm, violent and super-engaging book. If you loved it, listen now. Kimberly couldn't help but discuss some spoilers, so if you haven't read it, do that and come right back here. DEADWOOD is SO GOOD.2023-10-281h 27

The Foxed PageLECTURE 14: Claire Keegan's Small Things Like TheseKimberly worried there might be a bit too much Keegan on the foxed page. Then she re-reading Small Things and HAD TO RECORD THIS! Check it out. Keegan is a legend.2023-10-201h 10

The Foxed PageLECTURE 13: What we all need to learn from Mary Shelley's FRANKENSTEINNO READING REQUIRED! Kimberly explains why FRANKENSTEIN is more relevant than ever. Treat yourself to discussion of: Mary Shelley's insanely colorful life, elements of the gothic novel, what makes the prose so timeless, Percy Bysshe Shelley's role--and why we all need to hear the classic novel's CAUTIONARY TALE.2023-10-121h 26

The Foxed PageEnriched Read II: The Covenant of WaterNO PRE-READING REQUIRED! Kimberly breaks down the first dozen pages to reveal WHY this tome is such a hit. Explore Verghese's use of language, sense of place, narrative voice and incorporation of history--to see why you loved the book OR to see how you can GET MORE out of this epic.2023-09-1854 min

The Foxed PageEpisode 11: Didion, Babitz . . . and Cline?Kimberly explores the similarities and profound differences between oft-compared literary GENIUSES Joan Didion and Eve Babitz . . . before digging in to why people keep lumping Emma Cline, and her new novel, in with these legends.2023-09-051h 07

The Foxed PageLecture 10: Ejaculate Responsibly: A Whole New Way to Think about AbortionKimberly breaks down the GENIUS in Gabrielle Blair's crucial book. Urgent and funny at times, the lecture also touches on Kimberly's own book. If you listen to one podcast here at the foxed page, MAKE IT THIS ONE.2023-08-2842 min

The Foxed PageLecture 9: Vladimir Nabokov’s LolitaBuilding on Claire Dederer’s defense of this incredible novel, Kimberly walks you through this new way to think about the misunderstood classic. She delves into why the prose is so insanely great and wraps up with a look at the genius sleight-of-hand that makes the book not only deeply engaging but also important.2023-08-2134 min

The Foxed PageLecture 7: Joan Didion’s The White Album Part 2In part two, Kimberly focuses on the titular essay, “The White Album.”2023-08-0731 min

The Foxed PageLecture 6: Elena Ferrante’s The Lost Daughter Part 3In part three, Kimberly digs into the depiction of maternity in the novel, and the close of the work.2023-07-3134 min

The Foxed PageLecture 6: Elena Ferrante’s The Lost Daughter Part 2In part two, Kimberly analyzes the uncanny, strange feel of the novel, and the important pattern of proliferation of mothers, daughters and dolls.2023-07-3127 min

The Foxed PageLecture 6: Elena Ferrante’s The Lost Daughter Part 1Kimberly might not have loved Ferrante’s My Beautiful Friend, but she’s OBSESSED with The Lost Daughter. (Plus, the movie’s great.) In part one, Kimberly will argue why you should read this creepy little gem, discuss names in the novel, and dive into the opening of the book.2023-07-3131 min

The Foxed PageEnriched Read 1: Demon Copperhead, David Copperfield and DickensNo reading required! In this Dickens crash-course, Kimberly equips you to get even more out of Barbara Kingsolver’s incredible Demon Copperhead. Or to decide if you want to tackle this new bestseller! You’ll find out why Demon fits so well into a long literary tradition and why Kingsolver was SUCH a genius to choose this insanely effective scaffolding for her recent gem. 2023-07-2851 min

The Foxed PageLecture 5: Nancy Mitford’s The Pursuit of Love Part 2In part two, Kimberly discusses the peripheral, third-person (“sidekick”) narrator, Mitford’s world-class dialogue and the novel’s pacing.2023-07-2428 min

The Foxed PageLecture 5: Nancy Mitford’s The Pursuit of Love Part 3In part three, Kimberly discusses the artful depiction of maternity, Mitford’s humor, the novel’s blend of comedy/tragedy and the close of the book. 2023-07-2441 min

The Foxed PageLecture 4: Rachel Khong’s Goodbye, Vitamin Part 3In part three, Kimberly explores the plot, motifs of memory, and the important inversion that makes the novel so moving 2023-07-1734 min

The Foxed PageLecture 3: Elin Hilderbrand’s Summer of ‘69 Part 1Some of you might be a little surprised at this title popping up here but tune in to find out how Hilderbrand’s serious talent means that this book rose to Kimberly’s very high standards. In part one, Kimberly will argue why you should read the book, take a quick dip into Hilderbrand’s bio., and explore the opening pages.2023-07-1125 min

The Foxed PageLecture 3: Elin Hilderbrand’s Summer of ‘69 Part 2In part two, Kimberly discusses narrative voice, the deftly crafted plot, Hilderbrand’s impressive range, and her use of music and intertexts. 2023-07-1130 min

The Foxed PageLecture 3: Elin Hilderbrand’s Summer of ‘69 Part 3In part three, Kimberly explores figurative language, the satisfying character arcs, a few quibbles, and the close of the novel.2023-07-1133 min

The Foxed PageLecture 2: Claire Keegan’s Foster Part 3In part three, Kimberly discusses the spare richness of the prose, figurative language, desire, and the close of the novel.2023-07-0333 min

The Foxed PageLecture 2: Claire Keegan’s Foster Part 2In part two, Kimberly discusses structure, the deft dialogue, the unusual voice of Edna, and why the plot is so well done.2023-07-0333 min

The Foxed PageLecture 1: Michelle Zauner’s Crying in H-Mart Part 3In the final part, Kimberly discusses the issues of race, the use of the Korean language, and the close of the novel.2023-06-2631 min

The Foxed PageLecture 1: Michelle Zauner’s Crying in H-Mart Part 2In Part 2, Kimberly discusses the prose, the limits of memoir, structure, and figurative language.2023-06-2641 min

The Foxed PageLecture 1: Michelle Zauner’s Crying in H-Mart Part 1You guys. You must tune in to find out why Zauner is worth all the hype. If you’re in the mood for a memoir, and you like cool people and excellent prose, join Kimberly to see why H-Mart is moving, engaging and frankly delicious.2023-06-2632 min

The Foxed PageWelcome to the Foxed Page with Kimberly FordIf you love to read, The Foxed Page is for you. The Foxed Page podcast is built around entertaining deep dives into the best books. You’ll gain a richer understanding of the title at hand, all while learning to read everything . . . a little better. You can expect 3 part lecture series, 5-minute recommendations, talks on old favorites, and even some old episodes from the archives. So listen to The Foxed Page, with me, Kimberly Ford, best-selling author, former adjunct professor, and Ph.D.2023-06-2101 min

The Foxed PageFrom the Archives: Annie Ernaux’s The Years parts 1, 2 & 3A close analysis of the Nobel Prize winner’s masterpiece, the lecture delves deep into Ernaux’s prose, structure, use of popular culture and broad span. Kimberly explains why she thinks the Prize committee was apt in recognizing Ernaux’s “clinical acuity”–a term that doesn’t sound all that amazing, but really is. Listen in as Kimberly reveals how she decided to skim over some of the more abstruse French cultural references–but then COULDN’T! Because this prose is SO GOOD.2023-06-201h 29

The Foxed PageFrom The Archives: Jeannette Haiens' The All of It parts 1, 2 & 3This very brief novel is a STUNNER. It's moving, unique and absolutely fascinating. It's worth reading for the amazing structure alone! Join Kimberly to understand the masterful way that Haien aligns the reader with certain characters--and why that literary sleight of hand becomes so powerful. This is the juicy kind of lecture that will have you heading right back to re-read The All of It as soon as Kimberly's done.2023-06-201h 35

The Foxed PageFrom the Archives: Louise Erdrich's The Sentence parts 1, 2 & 3Kimberly has read a number of covid novels. She loved how Erdrich sets super-lovable characters and plenty of tension not only during the pandemic but in a Minneapolis that is rocked by the murder of George Floyd. Join Kimberly to see why Erdrich’s excellent prose makes this much more than a novel about a moment in time.2023-06-201h 34

The Foxed PageFrom the Archives: Kiley Reid’s Such a Fun Age parts 1, 2 & 3Find out why this buzzy bestseller impressed Kimberly with its prose and rich character development. Reid tackles today’s BIG questions, all in a highly familiar, fraught and delicious domestic world that provides all kinds of grist for Kimberly’s mill.2023-06-191h 23

The Foxed PageFrom the Archives: Annie Ernaux’s The Years parts 1, 2 & 3 A close analysis of the Nobel Prize winner’s masterpiece, the lecture delves deep into Ernaux’s prose, structure, use of popular culture and broad span. Kimberly explains why she thinks the Prize committee was apt in recognizing Ernaux’s “clinical acuity”–a term that doesn’t sound all that amazing, but really is. Listen in as Kimberly reveals how she decided to skim over some of the more abstruse French cultural references–but then COULDN’T! Because this prose is SO GOOD.2023-06-191h 30

The Foxed PageFrom the Archives: Brit Bennett’s The Vanishing Half parts 1, 2 & 3The Vanishing Half is a bestseller for all the right reasons. Kimberly explores Bennett’s rich and wide-reaching portrayal of race, family, homecoming and legacy–all while examining prose in ways that will make you a better reader.2023-06-191h 44

The Foxed PageFrom the Archives: James Joyce’s Dubliners parts 1, 2 & 3Kimberly argues why you should read the collection, before taking a deep dive into creepy, haunting “An Encounter” and the keystone work, James’s subtle and sad and masterful “The Dead.” She looks carefully at why Joyce’s prose changed the face of literature, and why his portrayal of the Irish is actually a portrayal of everyone.2023-06-191h 37

The Foxed PageFive-Minute Recommendation: Gabrielle Zevin’s Tomorrow and Tomorrow and TomorrowKimberly will share whether you should—or should not—dig into Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow. She’ll treat you to a snippet of the prose to give you a sense, but for a deeper analysis, check out the lecture.2023-06-1906 min

The Foxed PageFrom the Archives: Five-Minute Recommendation for Nancy Mitford’s The Pursuit of LoveKimberly will share whether you should—or should not—dig into The Pursuit of Love. She’ll treat you to a snippet of the prose to give you a sense, but for a deeper analysis, check out the lecture.2023-06-1905 min

The Foxed PageFrom the Archives: Five-Minute Recommendation for Jeanette Winterson and Jeanette Haien’s The All of ItKimberly will share whether you should—or should not—dig into The All of It. She’ll treat you to a snippet of the prose to give you a sense, but for a deeper analysis, check out the lecture.2023-06-1905 min

The Foxed PageFrom the Archives: Five-Minute Recommendation for Eve Babitz’s Slow Days, Fast Company: The World, the Flesh, and L.A.Kimberly will share whether you should—or should not—dig into Slow Days, Fast Company: The World, the Flesh, and L.A.. She’ll treat you to a snippet of the prose to give you a sense, but for a deeper analysis, check out the lecture.2023-06-1905 min

The Foxed PageFrom the Archives: Five-Minute Recommendation for Elin Hilderbrand’s Summer of 69Kimberly will share whether you should—or should not—dig into Summer of 69. She’ll treat you to a snippet of the prose to give you a sense, but for a deeper analysis, check out the lecture.2023-06-1909 min

The Foxed PageFrom the Archives: Five-Minute Recommendation of Gustave Flaubert’s Madame BovaryKimberly will share whether you should—or should not—dig into Madame Bovary. She’ll treat you to a snippet of the prose to give you a sense of the work, but for a deeper analysis, check out the lecture.2023-06-1907 min

The Foxed PageFrom the Archives: Five-Minute Recommendation for Annie Ernaux’s The Years.Kimberly will share whether you should—or should not—dig into The Years. She’ll treat you to a snippet of the prose to give you a sense, but for a deeper analysis, check out the lecture.2023-06-1907 min

The Foxed PageFrom the Archives: Five-Minute Recommendation for Jeannette Winterson’s FrankissteinKimberly will share whether you should—or should not—dig into Frankisstein. She’ll treat you to a snippet of the prose to give you a sense, but for a deeper analysis, check out the lecture.2023-06-1907 min

The Foxed Page5-Minute Recommendation: Dorothy Baker’s CASSANDRA AT THE WEDDINGKimberly will share whether you should—or should not—dig into Cassandra. She’ll treat you to a snippet of the prose to give you a sense of the work, but for a deeper analysis, check out the lecture!2023-06-1907 min

The Foxed Page5-Minute Recommendation: Michelle Zauner’s CRYING IN H-MARTKimberly will share whether you should—or should not—dig into this memoir. She’ll treat you to a snippet of the prose to give you a sense, but for a deeper analysis, check out the lecture.2023-06-1406 min