Shows
The Book Jar PodcastA Brand New Page | What's Next for The Book Jar PodcastThe Book Jar is back, and we're turning over a new page. In this episode, we're catching you up on what's new around The Book Jar, as well as introducing you to two new(ish) hosts that you'll be seeing, or rather hearing, a lot more from! Enjoy!Have a question you want us to discuss? Send us an email or message our Instagram account with your question, and we'll add it to our book jar.You can find our sister podcast, the Queens of Fantasy Podcast, on Instagram as well.Like our...
2025-11-0127 minThe Book Jar PodcastWho Would Win A Fictional Fight Between...? | Let the Fighting Begin!Let the fighting begin! In this episode, Marissa and Megan discuss, argue, and fight over who would win between fictional characters in fictional fights. From Dracula and Rhysand to Emma and Lizzie Bennet, this episode is throwing everything down and everyone with them! So, join us while we fight it out. As usual, the three readers start by reviewing their most recent reads and finish by discussing their upcoming reads. They also announce their next topic from the Book Jar.Expect us to discuss:The Hemlock Queen by Hannah WhittenA Memory of Light by R...
2024-11-281h 04The Book Jar PodcastBookish Confessions | Dust Jackets, Reading Challenges, DNF-ing, and MoreIt's time to share our deepest reader secrets. In this episode, Marissa and Megan are joined by Alix Calfa from the Queens of Fantasy podcast, to discuss all those things we usually keep to ourselves. We're talking about our bookish confessions, from dust jacket behaviour to reading challenges and even cheating on reading goals. Get ready to see us in a different light!As usual, the three readers start by reviewing their most recent reads and finish by discussing their upcoming reads. They also draw their next topic from the Book Jar.Expect us to...
2024-11-151h 12The Book Jar PodcastThe Best Bookstores Worldwide | Portland, Edinburgh, Tokyo, and MoreBesides that one overly comfortable chair in the corner, every reader's favourite place to be is a bookstore. In this episode, Marissa and Megan share the best bookstores they've explored. From local gems to international stars, these bookstores have one thing in common: they are well-loved and well-read.As usual, the two readers start by reviewing their most recent reads and finish by discussing their upcoming reads. They also draw their next topic from the Book Jar.Expect us to discuss:Ink, Blood, Sister, Scribe by Emma TörzsFayne by Ann-Marie MacDonaldLove on the B...
2024-10-181h 04The Book Jar PodcastThe History of Audiobooks | A Lesson From MeganEver heard of audiobooks? How much do you really know about them? In this episode, Megan explores everything audiobook. From the history of audiobooks to its formats, uses, and styles, join along as your two favourite readers explore the world of audiobooks!As usual, the two readers start by reviewing their most recent reads and finish by discussing their upcoming reads. They also draw their next topic from the Book Jar.Expect us to discuss:White Horse, Black Nights by Evie MarceauSilver Wings, Golden Games by Evie MarceauDracula by Bram Stoker (Narrated by Mike...
2024-10-031h 06The Book Jar PodcastLiterary Terms 101 With Marissa | Metaphor, Similes, Character Foils & MoreIt's time to go back to school! And, what better way to celebrate school than with a test? In this episode, Marissa and Megan review literary terms. Or rather, Marissa quizzes Megan on this terminology while putting her friendship at risk. From metaphor and simile to allusions and character foils, Marissa puts on her teaching hat to share the top literary terms every reader should know -- or learn!As usual, the two readers start by reviewing their most recent reads and finish by discussing their upcoming reads. They also draw their next topic from the Book...
2024-09-191h 05The Book Jar PodcastBanned Books: Which Ones We've Read And Our Thoughts | Elana K. Arnold, Judy Blume, J.D. Salinger, and MoreBooks are made to be read, not banned. In this episode, Megan and Marissa discuss banned books. From the most commonly banned novels to their favourite illicit reads, these two readers dive into why the books are banned and why they disagree. As always, they start the podcast with their most recent reads and end it by drawing a new topic from the jar.Articles referenced in the episode:Most Banned Books of All Time (Containing list of top 25 banned books)Plot twist: Activists skirt book bans with guerrilla giveaways and pop-up librariesTop 10 Most Famous Banned...
2024-09-051h 04The Book Jar PodcastBooks You've Been Avoiding On Your TBR (To-Be Read) Shelf | A Feather So Black, Wheel of Time & Many MoreThis one is dedicated to all the book stacks on all those book shelves just waiting to be read. In this episode, Marissa and Megan uncover their most shameful -- or most interesting -- books on their TBRs that they've been avoiding. From books they didn't even know they owned to books they've been waiting for the perfect moment to pick up, join these two readers as they dive into their TBRs. As always, they start the podcast with their most recent reads and end it by drawing a new topic from the jar and discussing their u...
2024-08-2254 minThe Book Jar PodcastBiggest Bookish Pet Peeves | A Feather So Black, Wheel of Time & Many MoreAll the things that make us cringe, gag, and recoil away from a book within an instant. From abhorrent stickers on book covers to the worst plot devices we've ever read, this week Megan and Marissa discuss their biggest book pet peeves. Marissa also shares an embarrassing reader faux pas she committed and Megan pretends she's very much over it. As always, they start the podcast with their most recent reads and end it by drawing a new topic from the jar and discussing their upcoming reads.Content Warning: We mention the following on this...
2024-08-0857 minThe Book Jar PodcastReading Challenges: Everything We Love & Everything We Don't | Crossroads of Twilight, Yellowface, Funny Story & MoreAnybody up for a challenge? Reading challenges are popular across TikTok, StoryGraph, and pretty much anywhere you find readers. Megan and Marissa give their thoughts on reading challenges – which ones they love and which ones they can't quite get into. Megan compares reading challenges to playing the Sims and Marissa changes her opinion quickly as the podcast progresses. As always, they start the podcast with their most recent reads and end it by drawing a new topic from the jar and discussing their upcoming reads.Expect us to discuss:Crossroads of Twilight by Robert JordanYellowface by Re...
2024-07-1145 minThe Book Jar PodcastLet's Talk About BookTok 2.0 W/ Alix Calfa | Sarah J. Maas, Colleen Hoover, Robert Jordan, And MoreAlix Calfa joins us for a surprise guest episode! Marissa and Alix discuss BookTok – and, in fact, all things about books online. The readers tackle discussing good recommendations and poor ones, as well as some of the more popular BookTok books and whether they are worth the read. As always, we start the podcast with some of our more recent reads. And, this time, we end by reviewing Marissa's ever-growing TBR pile.Expect us to discuss:Sarah J. MaasColleen HooverThe Wheel of Time by Robert JordanRed Rising by Pierce BrownHave a question you want us...
2024-06-271h 03The Book Jar PodcastOur Favourite – And Most Remarkable – Bookmarks | Bookmarks, Notation, Dog-Earring, And MoreDo you use bookmarks? Marissa and Megan discuss the most remarkable bookmarks they've had over the years. From American one-dollar bills to a leather marker with a flower that seems one petal short, both readers talk about whether or not they use them, what will count as a bookmark, and whether dog-earring is ever an option.We start the podcast with our most recent reads and end it by drawing our next topic from our book jar!Expect us to discuss:A Feather So Black by Lyra SeleneRadiance by Grace DravenGone Too Deep by...
2024-06-1351 minThe Book Jar PodcastTop Tips to Getting Out of A Reading Slump | Book Clubs, Reading Challenges, DNF-ing & MoreSlumps suck. Reading slumps extra suck. Every avid reader has been through one reading slump or another and, while sometimes they are inevitable, there are some ways to get through them without losing your mind. Marissa and Megan discuss their experiences with their own reading slumps, and all the top tips they have to prevent them. From reading challenges and book clubs to DNF-ing and taking breaks, these two readers discuss everything related to reading slumps.We start the podcast with our most-recent reads and end it by drawing our next topic from our book jar!
2024-05-3049 minThe Book Jar PodcastOur Top Villains In Literature | Dracula, President Snow, Sauron & MoreEverybody loves a good villain. From the most sinister non-human entities to the humans we start to empathize with, we've got all the best baddies from books we've read. We start with a classic President Snow and end with an even more classic villain who will suck your blood, and we hit every bad guy in between.We start the podcast with our most-recent reads and end it by drawing our next topic from our book jar!Expect us to discuss:The Hunger Games by Suzanne CollinsLord of the Rings by J.R.R...
2024-05-1646 minThe Book Jar PodcastOur Favourite Autobiographies & Memoirs | Vivek Shraya, Jennette Mccurdy & MoreFrom the rawest insight into people's lives to illuminating spotlights on important issues, biographies and memoirs can leave a long-lasting impact. In this episode, Marissa and Megan discuss their favourite memoirs and autobiographies. Marissa discusses several dancer and a few artists' memoirs, while Megan talks about reading about therapy and dealing with trauma. We hope you enjoy hearing about our favourite autobiographies we've read so far. We end the podcast with our currently reading list, and then we draw our next topic from our book jar!Expect us to discuss:Blood Memory by Martha G...
2024-05-0249 minThe Book Jar PodcastPoetry 101: Top Tips for Getting Into Poetry | Lang Leav, Shakespeare, Dickinson, Plath & MoreWelcome to Poetry 101. Marissa is a big poetry buff, and this week we're discussing all our best tips for getting into poetry. Throughout this podcast, Marissa and Megan share their experiences with poems and poetry – and give you all the reasons why you shouldn't be scared of them, no matter what your high school English teacher made you feel. From Marissa's top tips to reading poetry to Megan's personal experience with reading poetry and enjoying it, this is your starter guide to poetry. We end the podcast with our currently reading list, and then we draw our nex...
2024-04-181h 00The Book Jar PodcastBest Book Recommendations We've Given Each Other | Iron Widow, Lore Olympus, Throne of Glass & MoreWill we hurt each other's feelings? You'll have to listen to find out! In this episode of The Book Jar Pod, Megan and Marissa discuss the good, the bad, and the ugly of the books they've recommended to each other over the years. From some classic recommendations like Sabriel and Iron Widow to some newer ones like Emma and Throne of Glass, expect to hear all about the best – and perhaps the worst – recommendations exchanged between these two readers. We end the podcast with our currently reading list, and then we draw our next topic from our book...
2024-03-2159 minThe Book Jar PodcastLet's Catch Up On Our Most Recent Reads! | Silver in the Bone, The Wheel of Time, Cruel Illusions & MoreMegan is back! And we have some book talk to catch up. Marissa and Megan go through their most recent reads – all 25 books they've read since they've last met. From Heartstopper and Fly By Night to The Fires of Heaven and The City of Brass, join your fave readers as they rate and discuss all the books they've read to start this year. We end the podcast with our currently reading, and then we draw our next topic from our book jar! Expect us to discuss:Cage of Dreams by Rebecca SchaefferThe Clergyman's Wife by M...
2024-03-071h 14The Book Jar PodcastFave Female Characters in Books w/ Alix Calfa & Tay Andresen | The Poppy War, Stormlight Archive, Sabriel & The Hunger GamesLet's have some girl talk. And by girl talk, we're talking about our fave girlies in books. To top it off, Marissa is joined by both Alix Calfa and Taylor Andresen, from our sister podcast, The Queens of Fantasy. The three readers discuss an abundance of amazing female characters they've read in novels. From Sabriel and Katniss Everdeen to the leading characters in Throne of Glass and The Poppy War, the readers give credit where credit is due, recounting the best, strongest, and smartest fictional women they've read about. The podcast starts with Alix and Taylor recounting s...
2024-02-2250 minThe Book Jar PodcastLet's Talk About BookTok w/ Alix Calfa! | Twilight, ACOTAR, Sarah J. Maas, Fourth Wing & MoreAnother week, another guest. Alix Calfa, from our sister podcast, The Queens of Fantasy podcast, joins Marissa to discuss a truly industry-changing social media platform: BookTok. Both Alix and Marissa point out the good, the bad, the ugly, and the inspirational aspects of such a whirlwind force as BookTok is. We mention fave creators, fave book recommendations, and so much more in this episode of the Book Jar Podcast. Alix starts by recounting some of her most recent reads, and then the two readers dive into the topic. Expect us to discuss:Iron Widow by Xiran J...
2024-02-0853 minThe Book Jar PodcastYour Fave Feminist Reads w/ Taylor Andresen | Mona Eltahawy, Mikki Kendall, Xiran Jay Zhao & MoreWe have another guest on this episode of The Book Jar Pod: Taylor, from our sister podcast, The Queens of Fantasy podcast. Together, Marissa and Tay discuss a topic close to their hearts: What are some of your fave feminist reads? Taylor starts by recounting some of her most recent reads, and then the two readers dive into the topic. Let us know how you did in our trivia contest on our Discord channel or Instagram!We begin with Taylor's most-recently read novels and finish the episode by discussing Tay's fave reads of all time!...
2024-01-251h 05The Book Jar PodcastBooks & Literature Trivia Contest | Featuring Tay & Alix From the Queens of Fantasy PodcastIt's a crossover episode! We have two fabulous guests from our sister podcast, The Queens of Fantasy podcast, with us and we've decided to use a totally legitimate trivia contest and not-at-all-random scoring system to determine the reader who knows the most chaotic facts. Marissa, Megan, Alix, and Tay all have ten questions to ask and far too many answers to give. From Marissa cursing how long its been since she read Lord of the Rings and Little Women to Megan treating trivia like a creative writing prompt, this episode truly does have it all! Let us know how...
2024-01-111h 26The Book Jar Podcast2023: A Year In Review | Wrapping Up Our 2023 Best & Worst ReadsIt's been one heck of a year! And, we feel like we need to talk about the best – and the worst – books we read this year. So, join us, as both readers recap their year. From the number of books and pages read to the genres that filled those pages, these readers are going over it all – and we're thrilled to have you come along for the ride!We begin with our most currently read novels and finish the episode by discussing next week's topic!Expect us to discuss:Bright Young Women by Jessica KnollW...
2023-12-281h 17The Book Jar PodcastOur Favourite Unproblematic Authors | R.F. Kuang, Xiran Jay Zhao, Chloe Gong & MoreMegan and Marissa switch up their topic to talk about some amazing authors who also seem like great human beings. From calling out racism and misogyny and talking about hard-to-talk-about topics to donating time, money, and resources to charity, these authors are some of our favourites to read and recommend – on and off the page. Inspired by some recent events in the book world, this topic aims to talk about authors we'd happily recommend to anyone – and we're starting with you! We begin with our most currently read novels and finish the episode by discussing our next week...
2023-12-141h 05The Book Jar PodcastFan-Casting Popular Books (And Our Fave Novels) | Throne of Glass, Dracula, ACOTAR, Sabriel & MoreCasting movies and TV shows is a hard task. Naturally, this means we have to try it out for ourselves. In this episode, Marissa and Megan fan-cast some popular and some of their favourite novels. Marissa personally takes a hand at casting for Dracula, Throne of Glass, and A Court of Thorns and Roses. Megan decides that Ninth House, An Absolutely Remarkable Thing, and Sabriel are all in desperate need of an adaptation. Plus, Marissa adds a small twist of her own with a second list, just for fun.As always, we open with the books we've...
2023-11-301h 07The Book Jar PodcastNSFW Best and Worst Sex Scenes You've Ever Read | The Crown of Gilded Bones, A Court of Thorns and Roses, Haunting Adeline & MoreTalk dirty to me... or maybe don't. In this NSFW episode of The Book Jar Podcast, Marissa and Megan share the best and the worst sex scenes they've read in novels. From terrible anatomy to euphemisms sheathed between lines, these sex scenes will leave you with questions you don't want answered. The first portion of this podcast is safe for work, with Marissa and Megan recounting the books they've read since our last podcast. Then, after a warning, we switch to Explicit mode, talking about this episode's topic. At the end of the episode, they talk about...
2023-11-162h 00The Book Jar PodcastTropes That Belong In Trope Jail | Talking About ACOTAR, Ninth House, City of Bones & MoreContent Warnings: Incest, sexual abuse, sexual assault, rape, pedophiliaStraight to Trope Jail! Alright, we're talking about all the tropes that make us the most irritated. In short, the ones that make us wish we could make writing those tropes absolutely illegal.As always, we start by discussing our most recent reads and then dive straight into our topic. At the end of the pod, we discuss our upcoming reads and reveal our next topic (which, be warned, is a bit spicy 🥵)Expect us to talk about:Talk Dirty to Me by Liv...
2023-11-0253 minThe Book Jar PodcastWhat Books Took You Forever to Read? | Dracula, The Burning Gods, Emma & MoreNo matter your reading speed, some books just sit on your "currently reading" shelf for longer than others. From being a bit on the slow side to being a more challenging read, these books aren't necessarily bad (though, sometimes, they are) but they do take extra time, dedication, and perserverance to finish. We're talking about those books this week: the ones who carried around for a bit longer than normal in order to finish. We start the pod as always by talking about our most recent reads and then move on to our topic. At the end, w...
2023-10-191h 01The Book Jar PodcastAll Of Our Most Recent Reads | Megan & Marissa Play Catch UpMegan returns and we're using the first podcast to catch up on all the great books both readers have read over the past few months. They end by discussing their current reads and revealing the next topic pulled from the book jar.Expect us to discuss: Angel Mage by Garth NixA Beautifully Foolish Endeavor by Hank GreenAll of Us Villains by C.L. Herman & Amanda FoodyPaper Girls, Vol. 1 by Brian K. VaughanStrike the Zither by Joan HeThe Hating Game by Sally ThroneThe Sunbearer Trials by Aiden ThomasThe Awakening and Selected Stories of Kate Chopin by Kate C...
2023-10-051h 02The Book Jar PodcastWhat Is Your Favourite Fantasy Series Or Books w/ Alix & Tay | Stormlight Archives, The Wheel of Time, Percy Jackson & MoreDragons, elves, witches, warlocks, adventures with Hobbits, fae kings and queens: what's not to love about fantasy novels? While fantasy is a fun and captivating genre to read, some fantasy books hit us harder. From high fantasy worlds dreamt up by Tolkien, Sanderson, and Maas to gripping low fantasy adventures from Chloe Gong and Leigh Bardugo, this week we're talking about the fantasy books and series we love.Oh, and we're doing it with two guests! Meet Alix and Tay, two queens of fantasy.We end with an exciting announcement about our newest project, The...
2023-09-2147 minThe Book Jar PodcastThe Best Book Endings With Alix Calfa | The Awakening, Lord of the Rings & Throne of GlassWhat makes a good book ending? From the nicely wrapped-up books written by Jane Austen to the frustrating, hand-wringing cliffhangers by Sarah J. Maas, Marissa and Alix, our guest star, discuss all the books that ended perfectly – at least for them.We end with an exciting announcement about our newest project!Expect us to talk about:Emma by Jane AustenThe Way of Kings & Words of Radiance by Brandon SandersonThe Wheel of Time Series by Robert Jordan (and Brandon Sanderson)The Ones We're Meant to Find by Joan HeEragon by Christopher PaoliniThrone of Glass Series by...
2023-09-0752 minThe Book Jar PodcastWhat Books Influenced You As A Reader? | Twilight, The Hunger Games, Throne of Glass & MoreAlix is back with Marissa to discuss all the books that influenced them. From changing what type of main characters they looked for to reminding them of the value of a fast and fun read, Marissa and guest, Alix, are diving into a wonderful world of books that left their mark. The two readers end this episode by pulling next week's out of the jar. Expect us to discuss:Twilight by Stephanie MeyerThe Hunger Games by Suzanne CollinsThrone of Glass by Sarah J. MaasA Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. MaasEragon by Ch...
2023-08-2458 minThe Book Jar PodcastWhat Is Your Best Literary Brag? | Talking About Fast Reading, Classics & Owning A Lot Of BooksMarissa is joined by a different reader this week, Alix Calfa. Together, Alix and Marissa discuss their biggest and greatest literary brags. From accounting the many books they've read over the years to the amazing feat of being able to read in a car, the two readers use this rare opportunity to brag it up.Expect us to discuss:Pride & Prejudice by Jane AustenEmma by Jane AustenSense & Sensibility by Jane AustenPersuasion by Jane AustenMansfield Park by Jane AustenMultiple Works by William ShakespeareThe Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. LewisStormlight Archives by Brandon SandersonThe Wheel of Time...
2023-08-1055 minThe Book Jar PodcastWhat Genres Are You Surprised Are Popular & Which Do You Wish Would Get More Love?Trends are often surprising. In this episode, our two readers discuss all the surprise trends they've seen recently – and some they wish would come back around. From the surge of love for historical romance novels to the desire to find a few more steampunk novels on the shelf, we're here to discuss it all. Expect us to start with a recap of Marissa's past two weeks of reading, which might take a while. And then, the two readers dive right in, finishing off with some news, an announcement of a guest, and their upcoming reads.Ha...
2023-07-2758 minThe Book Jar PodcastWhat Is Your Favourite Book With A Sad Or Tragic Ending? | Romeo & Juliet, We Were Liars, No One Is Talking About This & MoreSometimes, a happily ever after just isn't possible. This week, Megan and Marissa discuss their fave books that end in sadness and tragedy. From Romeo & Juliet to No One Is Talking About This, get ready to hear about the saddest stories that we loved reading. Please be warned that this episode does contain spoilers.As always, we start with a discussion on our most recent reads and we end with our upcoming reads and the drawing of our next topic.Expect us to discuss: The Stormlight Archive Series by Brandon SandersonLeviathan Wakes by James S...
2023-07-131h 05The Book Jar PodcastWho Are Your Favourite Popular Young Adult (YA) Characters? | The Hunger Games, Throne of Glass, The Hate U Give & Sailor MoonYoung adult characters are some of the most memorable characters in literature. Whether inspired by real-life events or for the purpose of flying around mythical lands, YA characters can obtain their popularity for many reasons. In this episode, Marissa and Megan discuss which popular YA characters are their favourites and why. We also discuss our most recent reads, the end of Marissa's reading slump, upcoming reads, and our next topic.Expect us to discuss: Soul Feud by Juniper JacksonACOTAR by Sarah J. MaasThrone of Glass Series by Sarah J. MaasThe Hunger Games by Suzanne Co...
2023-06-2954 minThe Book Jar PodcastWhat Books Do You Wish Would Get An Adaptation? | The Shining, A Magic Steeped In Poison & MoreThe book might be better, but sometimes the movie just hits the spot. In this episode, Megan and Marissa discuss the books they'd love to see come to life on the screen. From favourites they want to see come alive to stories that had potential but didn't marvel, we dive into these books and what makes them perfect for the big screen.We also discuss our most recent reads, the end of Marissa's reading slump, upcoming reads, and our next topic.Expect us to discuss: The Shining by Stephen KingJane Austen's Novel CollectionA Magic S...
2023-06-0156 minThe Book Jar PodcastHow Do You Decide Which Books You Keep On Your Shelf? | A Series of Unfortunate Events, Twilight, Ruth Ware & MoreAre you a book hoarder or a careful collector? In this episode, Marissa and Megan discuss how they decide which books get to grace their shelves and which ones get donated or sent away. From beautiful copies to nostalgic editions and everything in between, these two readers are discussing the biggest question for book lovers: how do you decide which ones to let go of? We also discuss our most recent reads, Marissa's reading slump, upcoming reads, and our next topic.Expect us to discuss: Ruth WareSusan DennardTwilight by Stephanie MeyerA Series of Unfortunate Ev...
2023-05-1857 minThe Book Jar PodcastOur Favourite Plot-Based Tropes | The Hunger Games, Sailor Moon, Lord of the Rings & MoreWhen it comes to plots, we all have tropes we love. From enemies becoming friends to found family and more, Megan and Marissa discuss the plot tropes they can't get enough of. Both readers dive into the specifics of the tropes that they love – and expect us to gush about our absolute favourite examples as well! Expect us to discuss: Some Kind of Animal by Maria Romansco-MooreThe Princess Bride by William GoldmanI'm Afraid of Men by Vivek ShrayaThe Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes by Suzanne CollinsPanic by Lauren OliverThe Hunger Games by Suzanne CollinsLord of the Rings by J...
2023-05-0459 minThe Book Jar PodcastWhat Book-Related Questions Have We Always Wanted to Ask Each Other? | Megan & Marissa Quiz Each OtherIt's like 20 questions, but all about books! Megan and Marissa ask each other book-related questions that they've always wanted to ask each other. From debating who would win a crossover Hunger Games between Sabriel and Katniss to discovering the best and worst book recommendations we've given each other, this episode is all about answering the easy, the fun, and the hard questions we have for each other.Expect us to discuss: Sabriel by Garth NixAllegiant by Veronica RothRed Queen & War Storm by Victoria AveyardElla Enchanted by Gail Carson LevineThe Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins& Many More
2023-04-201h 02The Book Jar PodcastIf You Could Make One Change To A Book, What Would It Be? | Twilight, City of Bones, The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes & MoreThis one is dedicated to all the books that were almost a favourite – if it weren't for that one thing. In this episode, our beloved readers, Megan and Marissa, reveal the changes they'd make to a few novels to improve the story for them. Removing tropes, changing character arcs, and removing a character's death: we're bringing it all up this week.Expect us to discuss:City of Bones by Cassandra ClareFalling Kingdoms by Morgan RhodesTwilight by Stephanie MeyerThe Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne CollinsRoyal Wedding by Meg CabotThe Burning God by R.F. KuangAnd Mo...
2023-04-071h 02The Book Jar PodcastMeet The Readers: Marissa & Megan Talk Books, Hobbies & MoreMegan and Marissa are answering questions about themselves this week. From discussing their non-book-related interests and hobbies to recalling how they started reading and met, the two readers are deep diving to help you get to know them better.Expect us to discuss:The Anthropocene Reviewed by John GreenThe Ones We're Meant to Find by Joan HeSabriel by Garth NixJane Eyre by Charlotte BrontëEmma by Jane AustenAnd MoreHave a question you want us to discuss? Send us an email or message our Instagram account with your question, and we'll add it to our b...
2023-03-2357 minThe Book Jar PodcastBooks That Were Our Quickest Reads | Sue Lynn Tan, Leigh Bardugo, Sarah J. Maas, Colleen Hoover & Many MoreThis one's for those readers still reading at 2 am, even though they have to work the next day. In this episode, Megan and Marissa are recounting the books that they burned through quickly – for both good and bad reasons.We start by discussing our most recent reads and then move into the topic, discussing what kind of books we read quickly and why. Lastly, we discuss our upcoming and current reads and draw our next topic from our book jar!Expect us to discuss:The Coldest Girl in Coldtown by Holly BlackIt Ends With Us...
2023-03-0949 minThe Book Jar PodcastBooks We've Read With the Worst Endings | It Ends With Us, The Burning God, My Name Is Memory & MoreA good ending is important. A bad ending can ruin the book. In this episode, Megan and Marissa discuss the worst endings to books they've read. From leaving a sour taste in our mouths to completely destroying a beloved series, the worst endings come in all shapes and sizes. We start this episode by talking over our most recent reads, which leads us straight into this week's topic: The worst book endings we've ever read. Marissa and Megan discuss the "one year later" epilogue and how it's ruined more books than it's saved. Expect us to also...
2023-02-231h 03The Book Jar PodcastWhy Do YA (Young Adult) Authors & Books Get So Much Hate? | Twilight, The Hunger Games & MoreIt's easy to find hate about the YA genre. From protesting that these books aren't valuable to keeping adults from reading YA, it seems there are so many reasons people hate on YA. But is the hate deserved? We think not.Megan and Marissa discuss all the most popular reasons cited for people to hate YA – and we argue about which points are valid (lack of diversity, etc.) and which ones are not (lack of literary value, for one). We begin as always by talking about our most recent reads and, of course, finish off by...
2023-02-0958 minThe Book Jar PodcastWhat Are Your Favourite Movie And TV Show Adaptations? | Emma, The Hunger Games, Holes & MoreIs the book better? Or the movie? How about both? In this week's episode of the Book Jar Podcast, Marissa and Megan compare notes on their favourite book-to-movie/tv-series adaptations. From Jane Austen's plethora of movies to nostalgic numbers like Holes by Louis Sachar, we're talking about all the movies and tv shows we've adored, even though they started on the page. As always, we start our podcast by discussing our most recent reads and finish up by looking towards the books that are moving up our TBR lists. Oh, and to end the whole thing, we draw our...
2023-01-2659 minThe Book Jar PodcastOur Reading Goals: A Year in Review & A Glance ForwardEveryone loves a reading goal. Marissa and Megan are back to discuss their reading goals for 2023 – plus a review of how 2022 has been for us! We start by discussing 2022 and how our reading looked throughout the year. Then, we make new reading goals for the upcoming year. We end it off by discussing upcoming reads and drawing our next topic for our book jar. Like our podcast? Leave us a review so more people can find us!Want to be in a community full of readers? Join our Discord server to discuss books and join ou...
2023-01-1256 minThe Book Jar PodcastOverhyped Books That We Didn't Fall In Love WithMarissa and Megan discuss some overhyped books in this week's episode of the Book Jar Podcast. From some self-help books that didn't help to TikTok recommendations that didn't stick, we're talking about it all. Want your question featured on our podcast? DM us your question on Insta and we'll add it to the book jar.Like our podcast? Leave us a review so more people can find us!Want to be in a community full of readers? Join our Discord server to discuss books and join our book club (if you want!). You c...
2022-12-151h 02The Book Jar PodcastThe Top Dedication Pages in Books We've FoundDedication pages are fun – and sometimes they're just a bit sweet, sad, or beautiful. We're resisting favourite dedication pages we've discovered through our reading history. The two readers also discuss their most recent reads, upcoming reads, their book club, and other bookish things! Want your question featured on our podcast? DM us your question on Insta and we'll add it to the book jar.Like our podcast? Leave us a review so more people can find us!Want to be in a community full of readers? Join our Discord server to discuss books an...
2022-11-1953 minThe Book Jar PodcastBooks You Wish You Could Read For The First Time Again | Sabriel, The Ones We're Meant to Find & Jane EyreThere's nothing like the first time. Megan and Marissa discuss which books they wish they could read again for the first time. Marissa takes into consideration her all-time faves, while Meg wonders what it might be like if she read books she doesn't think she would like the second time around. The two readers also discuss their most recent reads, upcoming reads, their book club, and other bookish things! Expect them to discuss: Harry PotterJane Eyre by Charlotte BrontëThe Ones We're Meant to Find by Joan HeSabriel by Garth NixThe Lover's Dictionary by David Levithan Eon...
2022-11-0358 minThe Book Jar PodcastFavourite Book Fan Theories | Discussing Twilight, A Series of Unfortunate Events, Harry Potter & More**Spoiler Warnings for Harry Potter, Twilight, Sailor Moon, A Series of Unfortunate Events, A Court of Thorns & Roses & Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde**Fan theories make reading communities better! So, in this episode, we're diving into our personal faves. From Draco Malfoy being a werewolf to Reneesme being a villain, we're breaking down some theories you may or may not have heard of. Make sure to join us on social media to tell us your fave fan theory! We also discuss our most recent reads and draw our topic for next week. Fo...
2022-10-2051 minThe Book Jar PodcastBooks That Hooked Us From The First Line, Page & Chapter | Percy Jackson, Jane Eyre, Turn of the Key & More**Content Warning: Mentions of death, dying, and sex.**We are talking about books that have great hooks. From renowned classics to our fave modern books (and audiobooks), some books get you right from the start. Marissa and Megan read a few of their faves.Expect us to discuss:The Turn of the Key by Ruth WareThe Bad Beginning by Lemony SnicketEmma by Jane AustenJane Eyre by Charlotte BrontëThe Bone Houses by Emily Lloyd-JonesPanic by Lauren OliverThe Book Thief by Markus Zusak& Many MoreWe also discuss our most recent reads and draw o...
2022-10-0650 minThe Book Jar PodcastExtra, Extra | Upcoming Book Releases & Movie Adaptations for September & October 2022Extra, extra, we've got book news! From new releases to new announcements, Megan and Marissa bring you some of the top headlines for October and a recap of September 2022.Want your question featured on our podcast? DM us your question on Insta and we'll add it to the book jar. Like our podcast? Consider leaving us a review so more people can find us!
2022-10-0250 minThe Book Jar PodcastManga, Comic Books & Graphic Novels We Love | The Walking Dead, Archie Comics & More**Spoilers for The Walking Dead.****Content Warning: We do talk about sex and mention some violent content from The Walking Dead graphic novels.**What do Bryan Lee O'Malley, Rachel Smythe, Shaun Tan, and Lights have in common? They're all comics whose graphic novels we loved reading. In this episode, we're talking about graphic novels, comics, and manga. And we're starting with Archie. We also discuss our most recent reads and draw our topic for next week. Want your question featured on our podcast? DM us your question on Insta and we'll add it...
2022-09-2258 minThe Book Jar PodcastBooks That Had The Biggest Emotional Impact On You | John Green, Jim Wooten & MoreWe're getting emotional this week. Join us on a deep dive into the books that made us feel the most: anger, sadness, hope, and disgust. We also discuss our most recent reads and draw our topic for next week. From there, we discuss our upcoming reads and announce our next podcast topic.Want your question featured on our podcast? DM us your question on Insta and we'll add it to the book jar. Like our podcast? Leave us a review so more people can find us!
2022-09-0859 minThe Book Jar PodcastBook Characters You Wouldn't Want to Meet in Real Life | Geralt, Hera, Fang Runin & MoreSome characters you dream of meeting. Others, you would run from. In this episode, we discuss our personal favourite characters who we'd rather not meet in real life – for a variety of reasons.From there, we discuss our upcoming reads and announce our next podcast topic.Want your question featured on our podcast? DM us your question on Insta and we'll add it to the book jar. Like our podcast? Leave us a review so more people can find us!
2022-08-2558 minThe Book Jar PodcastDescribing Popular Books In One Sentence | A Book Jar Guessing GameContent Warning: We discuss a book that contains mentions of sexual assault, harassment, and rape. If this content is not for you, please stop listening when we talk about our upcoming reads at the end of the podcast. We're here to have a little bit of fun this week! Courtesy of one of our listeners, Alix, we're describing great books (both to us personally and to the global audience) in a single sentence. Some descriptions are obvious. Others require a bit more thought. See if you can keep up with Megan and Marissa with their gu...
2022-08-1155 minThe Book Jar PodcastExtra, Extra | Upcoming Book Releases & Movie Adaptations for August 2022Extra, extra, we've got book news! From new releases to new announcements, Megan and Marissa bring you some of the top headlines for August 2022.Want your question featured on our podcast? DM us your question on Insta and we'll add it to the book jar. Like our podcast? Consider leaving us a review so more people can find us!
2022-08-0227 minThe Book Jar PodcastBooks That You Hated At First | John Green, Jane Austen & MoreWhat do John Green, Jane Austen, and a few others have in common? Well, when we picked up their books, we weren't always in love. As usual, Megan and Marissa start off by discussing their most recent reads: Megan discusses a finished book of hers, Yume by Sifton Tracey Anipare, and Marissa (for the first time ever since starting this podcast) has no new books to report. From there, we dive into the topic of the week: What book did you hate at first, but end up loving? Marissa discusses Villette by Charlotte Brontë, The Alienist by Ca...
2022-07-281h 07The Book Jar PodcastWhich Books Do You Wish Would Go Mainstream? | Pure, The Bone House & MoreLet's get to our deep dive book recommendations! Megan and Marissa start off by discussing their most recent reads: Marissa lists her four reads and Megan talks about the book she's currently working on finishing. From there, we dive into topic of the week: What book do you love that isn't mainstream, but you wish it was? Marissa starts off by discussing We All Love the Beautiful Girls by Joanne Proulx, a novel based in suburban Quebec that narrates the unfolding of a family after two tragedies. Megan goes on to discuss The Bone Houses by Emily L...
2022-07-0745 minThe Book Jar PodcastExtra, Extra | Here's Your Upcoming Book Releases & Movie Adaptions for July 2022Extra, extra, we've got book news! From new releases to new announcements, Megan and Marissa bring you some of the top headlines for July 2022.Want your question featured on our podcast? DM us your question on Insta and we'll add it to the book jar. Like our podcast? Consider leaving us a review so more people can find us!
2022-07-0530 minThe Book Jar PodcastA Mid-Year Reading Check-In | Talking About Our Most and Least Faves So Far in 2022It's our mid-year check-in! Marissa and Megan embark on a review of the highs and lows of 2022 so far! We start by discussing our reading goals for the year and whether or not we're ahead or behind schedule. We also talk about the main themes, genres, book pacing, and pages that we've read this year, using the data from our Storygraph accounts. (If you're looking to see our Storygraph accounts, you can find Marissa's here and Megan's here.)From there, we break down our highest-rated and lowest-rated reads from this year. You can expect us to talk...
2022-06-231h 06The Book Jar PodcastWhat Makes A Good Villain A Good Villain | Great Antagonists | Iron Widow, Frankenstein, Othello & MoreAll that's evil is not created equal. Marissa and Megan start off this podcast by discussing our most recent reads before we dive into an in-depth discussion of several great antagonists and what makes them so great at being bad. We start with a discussion of the eight main categories of villains: The Anti-Villain, The Beast, The Bully, The Machine, The Mastermind, Evil Incarnate, The Henchman, and The Fanatic. From there, we break down the characteristics that make those bad guys/gals/enbies so amazing to hate.Expect us to also discuss Frankenstein by M...
2022-06-101h 01The Book Jar PodcastYour Monthly Extra Extra | June 2022 Book News & New ReleasesExtra, extra, we've got book news! From new releases to new announcements, Megan and Marissa bring you some of the top headlines for June 2022.Want your question featured on our podcast? DM us your question on Insta and we'll add it to the book jar. Like our podcast? Consider leaving us a review so more people can find us!
2022-06-0135 minThe Book Jar PodcastBooks with the Best Worldbuilding w/ Alix Calfa | Mistborn, Wheel of Time, Tolkein's Middle Earth & MorePlaces of magic, wonder, and realism: we're talking about worldbuilding! Marissa and not-Megan are back in this episode with the best worldbuilding in novels. Alix Calfa fills in for Megan this week and together Marissa and Alix discuss a number of books, including novels by Brandon Sanderson, J.R.R. Tolkein, Dan Brown, and so many more. They also discuss books they have recently finished and finish the episode with a look ahead to next week's topic. Marissa starts off the podcast by discussing John Green's The Anthropocene Reviewed, which she just recently finished. We also introduce...
2022-05-271h 19The Book Jar PodcastWhat Are the Best Types of Book Endings? | S.E. Hinton, Suzanne Collins, Markus Zusak & Many MoreHappily ever after – and sometimes not. We're breaking down what makes an ending in a novel good, and which endings are our faves. But first, we start by discussing our most recent reads. From there, we dive into the topic, first discussing six main types of novel endings (Resolved, Unresolved, Ambiguous, Expanded, Unexpected, and Tied). Megan and Marissa briefly describe each and then dive into examples of novels that they've enjoyed from each category. Megan discusses several resolved endings of novels, including Suzanne Collins' The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes and Laurie Frankel's This is How it Alw...
2022-05-1257 minThe Book Jar PodcastYour Monthly Extra Extra | May 2022 Book NewsExtra, extra, we've got book news! From new releases to new announcements, Megan and Marissa bring you some of the top headlines for May 2022.Want your question featured on our podcast? DM us your question on Insta and we'll add it to the book jar. Like our podcast? Consider leaving us a review so more people can find us!
2022-05-0426 minThe Book Jar PodcastWho Are Your Fave Go-To Authors? | John Green, Susan Dennard, Ruth Ware & MoreWe start off this week, as always, by talking about our most recent reads. Marissa discusses Grand Union: Stories by Zadie Smith and Light From Uncommon Stars by Ryka Aoki. Megan takes her turn to discuss The Lost Daughter by Elena Ferrante. From there, the readers dive into this week's topic: Who are your favourite, go-to authors? These are the authors who you always buy no matter what. Marissa starts off, as usual, by breaking down the topic. This leads her to discuss an author who was previously a go-to read of hers until the author lost h...
2022-04-2859 minThe Book Jar PodcastBooks Series You Originally Hated But Are Glad You Finished | Lemony Snicket, A Throne of Glass & MoreWe open, as always, with a dive into our most recent reads. Megan discusses Anatomy: A Love Story by Dana Schwartz. Marissa discusses two very recent reads: The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy and Monstress, Vol. 1: Awakening by Marjorie Liu with illustrations by Sana Takeda. After that, they dive into this podcast's topic: What books did you hate at first but you're glad you finished the series for? Marissa begins the discussion by bringing up the weirdness of her willingness to DNF series, even when she won't DNF books themselves. Megan s...
2022-04-1457 minThe Book Jar PodcastYour Monthly Extra Extra | April Book NewsExtra, extra, we've got book news! From new releases to new announcements, Megan and Marissa bring you some of the top headlines for April 2022. Oh. And, also Marissa mentions a BookTokker in the podcast, who you should definitely check out >> @limmadi8Want your question featured on our podcast? DM us your question on Insta and we'll add it to the book jar. Like our podcast? Consider leaving us a review so more people can find us!
2022-04-0616 minThe Book Jar PodcastWhat Are The Best Themes We've Read In Novels? | V for Vendetta, Hank Green, Jesse Thistle & MoreContent Warning: In this episode, we talk about personal stories related to loss and death. This topic is contained to the end of the podcast; however, if this could be potentially distressing or upsetting for you to listen to, please stop listening at 00:57:30 and skip to 01:03:34. Thank you.Marissa opens the podcast and, for once, Megan has more books read over the past two weeks. She discusses The Dragon Republic by RF Kuang, Monstress by Marjorie Liu (Drawn by Sana Takeda), and Along for the Ride by Mimi Grace. Marissa only has one book on her list...
2022-03-311h 07The Book Jar PodcastWhich Novels Have the Best Endings | Talking About Jane Eyre, The Ones We're Meant to Find & MoreOnce Marissa figures out how to open a podcast, the two readers dive into discussing their most recent reads. Over the past two weeks, both readers have a shorter list than normal, but we're chit-chatting about Emma by Jane Austen, Villette by Charlotte Bronte, A Beautifully Foolish Endeavor by Hank Green, and Someday, Someday, Maybe by Lauren Graham. From there, they dive into the bold, the beautiful, and the brilliantly open-ended novel endings they've loved. Marissa talks about her first fave book ending from Ms. Bronte while Megan deep dives into an ending from every millennial childhood. T...
2022-03-171h 00The Book Jar PodcastBooks We've DNF'd & Why? | Sarah J. Maas, Jane Austen & MoreWe're back with another episode of The Book Jar Podcast and we're discussing our most spectacular DNFs. We start this week's podcast with a review of our most recent reads: Marissa's got a long list and Megan has a modest one. From there, we dive into DNF lists. Marissa takes a brief moment to discuss why she is a "carry-on" type reader with books she doesn't love and Megan defends the lost art of putting down a book to never, ever pick it up again. Megan and Marissa then dive into an account of all th...
2022-03-041h 01The Book Jar PodcastRomances That Make Or Break A Novel | Book & Trope Discussion**Content Warning** In this episode, we discuss novels with a variety of themes, including domestic abuse, incest, rape, sexual assault/harassment, and toxic relationships. Please be advised if these topics may be triggering to you. The bookworms are back, and this time they are discussing romances that make or break books. First, though, Marissa and Megan review the books they've read in the past two weeks, including The Poppy Wars by R. F. Kuang, Iron Widow by Xiran Jay Zhao, Sense & Sensibility by Jane Austen, Elizabeth Lim's Spin the Dawn, and others. Next, the two a...
2022-02-1756 minThe Book Jar PodcastBooks With Open Endings That We Loved (& Hated) | A.S. Byatt, Gone Girl & MoreThe podcast opens with our usual discussion about our most recent reads. Marissa discusses several novels, including her first Colleen Hoover read, and Megan dives into her newfound love for Lore Olympus by Rachel Smythe. Other recent reads include The Weight of Sand by Edith Blais, Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins, Stardust by Neil Gaiman, and Persuasion by Jane Austen. From there, our readers dive into this week's topic. Marissa opens the discussion with a strong opinion on why open-ended novels can be the most amazing experience, while Megan argues for why she often...
2022-02-0357 minThe Book Jar PodcastWhat Are Your Go-To Book Genres?Marissa and Megan start off this episode by discussing their most recent book-ish triumphs, including a brief review of each (although you can find a full review on our Instagram account). Marissa discusses Joan He's novel, The One's We're Meant to Find, Sailor Moon 10 by Naoko Takeuchi, and Lore Olympus by Rachel Smythe and Megan talks about Iron Widow by Xiran Jay Zhao, The Boy, The Mole, The Fox And The Horse by Charlie Mackesy, and We Met in December by Rosie Curtis. Afterwards, both Marissa and Megan make reading pledges for the upcoming year. And then, they dive...
2022-01-201h 01The Book Jar PodcastBooks That Made Us The Readers We Are | The Princess Diaries, Sabriel & So Many MoreThese two avid readers start by discussing the books they've read since the last episode (and, yes, Marissa binged an entire Manga series) before diving into this week's topic. Megan also discusses her read – An Absolutely Remarkable Thing by Hank Green – in great detail. Then, Megan and Marissa dive right into this episode's topic with a book that they share from their childhood memories: Sabriel. Marissa discusses The Princess Diaries in great detail, and Megan dives into the cultural phenomena of Twilight. The two readers also discuss Ella Enchanted, The Golden Compass, and so many more. Afte...
2022-01-0658 minThe Book Jar PodcastAll the Tropes We Hate in BooksThe second episode of The Book Jar Podcast is now live! Marissa and Megan discuss the books they've most recently devoured and then dive into this week's topic: What are your least favourite plot tropes? We've got Damsels in Distress, Hotter is Better, Break His Heart to Save Him, and so much more in store – with references to the novels that dealt with the tropes the worst (plus, a few that get passes because they were put to good use). After a lengthy discussion of our first official topic, Marissa and Megan wrap up by decl...
2021-12-241h 03The Book Jar PodcastMeet the Readers: Megan & MarissaIn the first episode of The Book Jar Pod, Marissa and Megan discuss all their bookish faves. From tropes to genres, characters, and a game of Would-You-Rather, these two avid readers introduce you to all their favourites. They also pull their first topic out of the book jar. Want your topic added to the book jar? DM us on social media to get your question added.This episode contains no spoilers.
2021-12-0958 min