Deep Dive
Why is Emma interested in exploring books with horror elements?
Emma is drawn to books that incorporate horror elements because they often provide reflective and meaningful reading experiences without being truly horrifying. She enjoys the eerie and haunting aspects of such stories, especially during the colder months.
What is Emma's main reading conundrum?
Emma struggles with determining whether a book is a good fit for her before investing time in it. She often spends 100 pages or more on books that don't align with her tastes and wishes to improve her ability to discern what she will enjoy.
How has Emma's reading life improved since discovering the podcast?
Since discovering the podcast, Emma has become more intentional about her reading choices. She now uses Goodreads to plan her reading, which has helped her become more organized and strategic in selecting books that match her mood and preferences.
What is Emma's 'golden hour' and how does it relate to her reading life?
Emma's 'golden hour' is the time she dedicates to reading every day from 8 to 9 p.m. During this hour, she unwinds by curling up on the couch with her husband, drinking tea, and reading together. It is the highlight of her day and a cherished time for relaxation and reading.
What is Emma's approach to deciding whether to DNF (Did Not Finish) a book?
Emma has become more comfortable with DNFing books since discovering it's okay not to finish a book she doesn't enjoy. However, she still feels some guilt, especially if she has bought the book. She is working on trusting her own taste and learning when to let go of a book that isn't resonating with her.
What are some of Emma's favorite books and why?
Emma's favorite books include '1Q84' by Haruki Murakami, 'The Bee Sting' by Paul Murray, and 'Piglet' by Lottie Hazel. She loves these books for their compelling, off-balance narratives, dark themes, and memorable characters. '1Q84' in particular holds a nostalgic place in her heart as it was one of the first books to help her enjoy reading purely for pleasure.
What book did Emma find disappointing and why?
Emma found 'Butter, a Novel of Food and Murder' by Asako Yazuki disappointing because it lacked the suspense and plot buildup she expected. The book focused more on a true crime vibe and a relationship she found uninteresting, which made it feel like a chore to finish.
What kind of books is Emma looking for in her reading life right now?
Emma is looking for books that are eerie, spooky, or haunting but not outright horror. She enjoys elements of darkness and unease, especially as she prepares for the long, dark Canadian winter. She prefers books that keep her engaged without being too scary or gory.
What are some recommendations Anne gives Emma for her fall reading list?
Anne recommends 'Starling House' by Alex Harrow, 'Hurricane Girl' by Marcy Dermanski, and 'Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption' by Stephen King. These books offer a mix of Gothic fantasy, Southern Gothic themes, and a taste of Stephen King's writing without the typical horror elements.
What nonfiction book does Anne suggest for Emma to explore Stephen King's writing?
Anne suggests 'On Writing, A Memoir of the Craft' by Stephen King, a nonfiction book where King discusses his journey as a writer, his process, and his relationship with his wife. It offers insight into his craft without any of the horror elements.
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