Galaxies and Goddesses: A Sci-Fi & Fantasy Bookcast

Episod

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  Second Foundation: Asimov’s Trilogy Comes Full Circle 16.07.2026 32min

  In this episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, Andrea and Elizabeth dive into Isaac Asimov's Second Foundation, the conclusion of the original Foundation trilogy. They discuss how the novel brings the series full circle while exploring its biggest ideas, including psychohistory, the rise and fall of civilizations, free will versus manipulation, and whether history can truly be predicted. Along the way, they examine the contrast between the First Foundation's physical sciences and the Second Foundation's mental sciences, debate the ethics of influencing society "for the greater good," and share why this classic science fiction trilogy continues to feel relevant more than 70 years after it was written.⚠️ Spoiler warning: This episode contains discussion of major plot points from Second Foundation and the original Foundation trilogy. We avoid revealing the novel's biggest final twist.03:28 Big Ideas That Stuck With Us11:02 The Mystery of Second Foundation14:03 Power, Control, and the Seldon Plan22:59 Who Would You Recommend This Book27:29 Final Thoughts and RatingsAdditional References:The NPR Top 100 Science Fiction & Fantasy Bookshttps://www.npr.org/2011/08/11/139085843/your-picks-top-100-science-fiction-fantasy-booksLet’s ConnectPodcast Instagram: @galaxiesandgoddessesIf you loved the episode, be sure to subscribe and give a review!
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  Reading Goals Revisited: Our Mid-Year 2026 Book Check-In 02.07.2026 28min

  In this episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, Andrea and Elizabeth revisit reading goals and New Year's resolutions set back in January. They check in on their 26 in 2026 reading lists, compare mid-year reading stats, and share the books that have stood out most so far this year. They also talk about the challenge of choosing what to read next, the freedom to put down books that aren't working, and how their Summer Book Bingo is going. Whether you're crushing your reading goals or completely off track, join the bookish banter and perhaps discover your next great read.00:50 Revisiting Our Reading Resolutions07:55 Mid Year Reading Stats10:15 Progress on Our 26 in 2026 Lists11:41 Our Favorite Books of the Year So Far16:24 Deciding What to Read Next21:41 Book Bingo Updates23:31 Books We Couldn't Finish24:36 How to Join Our Summer Book Bingo25:30 Reading Goals for the Rest of 202627:52 Closing Thoughts & Next EpisodeBooks Discussed in This Episode :The Lord of the Rings — J. R. R. TolkienThe Hobbit — J. R. R. TolkienHer Body and Other Parties — Carmen Maria MachadoKatabasis — R. F. KuangKlara and the Sun — Kazuo IshiguroThe Traveling Cat Chronicles — Hiro ArikawaBury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil — V. E. SchwabAtmosphere — Taylor Jenkins ReidThere There  — Tommy OrangeThe Serviceberry — Robin Wall KimmererGood People — Patmeena Sabit Project Hail Mary — Andy WeirThe Mythmakers — John HendrixThe Housemaid — Freida McFaddenI'm Glad My Mom Died — Jennette McCurdyLet’s ConnectPodcast Instagram: @galaxiesandgoddessesIf you loved the episode, be sure to subscribe and give a review!
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  Foundation and Empire by Isaac Asimov: The Power of a Single Word or Character 18.06.2026 33min

  In this episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, Andrea and Elizabeth discuss Foundation and Empire, the second book in Isaac Asimov's Foundation trilogy. They explore the novel's central question: can one person change the course of history? Along the way, they examine psychohistory, Bayta's role as a standout female character, Asimov's concise writing style, and why Foundation and Empire felt like a stronger, more cohesive read than the first book.05:39 The Group versus the Individual08:27 Bayta as a Standout Character12:25 Concise Words for Big Concepts17:25 Unprintable Words21:34 Needing a Break25:14 Does History Repeat Itself?30:18 Ratings & Final ThoughtsAdditional References:Bechdel Testhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bechdel_testWhy is Genre Fiction Obsessed with Belisarius?https://reactormag.com/why-is-genre-fiction-obsessed-with-belisarius/
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  Put a Bird on It: Judging Books by Their Covers & Summer Book Bingo 04.06.2026 29min

  In this episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, Andrea and Elizabeth discuss the complicated world of book covers and how first impressions shape our reading expectations. From romantasy trends and movie tie-in editions to mass market paperbacks, special editions, and social media influence, they explore whether anyone can truly avoid judging a book by its cover. Along the way, they share stories about their current reads, misleading covers, and the books they almost didn’t want to be seen reading in public. Plus, they officially kick off the Galaxies and Goddesses Summer Book Bingo.00:48 Currently Reading04:01 Book Covers as Marketing05:19 Blind Date with a Book07:50 Special Editions and Movie Poster Covers13:57 Social Media Influence18:39 Misleading Covers22:10 Embarrassing Covers24:27 E-readers vs Physical Books26:30 Summer Book Bingo KickoffBooks mentioned in the episode:Foundation and Empire by Isaac AsimovThe Antidote by Karen RussellDream Count by Chimamanda Ngozi AdichieThe Crazies: The Cattleman, the Wind Prospector, and the War Out West by Amy GamermanAtmosphere by Taylor Jenkins ReidThe Emperor of Gladness by Ocean VuongOn Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous by Ocean VuongThe Eye of the World by Robert JordanThe Moonday Letters by Emmi ItärantaThe Strawberry Thief by Joanne HarrisChocolat by Joanne HarrisThe Memory of Forgotten Things by Kat ZhangCome As You Are by Emily NagoskiIce Planet Barbarians by Ruby DixonPortlandia – “Put a Bird on It” sketchhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GNpIOlDhigw
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  Reading Foundation in 2026: What Holds Up and What Feels Dated 21.05.2026 34min

  In this episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, Andrea and Elizabeth dive into Foundation by Isaac Asimov, one of the most influential works in classic science fiction. Together they explore the concept of psychohistory, and how the novel’s ideas about power, technology, religion, and knowledge preservation still resonate today. They also discuss what feels dated in a mid-century sci-fi classic, from communication technology to the near absence of women in positions of power, and reflect on how modern readers engage with older speculative fiction. Along the way, the conversation branches into AI, technological dependence, and why some books remain classics even when they challenge or frustrate us as readers. 01:01 Expectations for a Classic03:04 Serialized Structure and Star Wars Vibes05:48 Psychohistory and Power Politics09:41 What Aged Poorly and Who Gets Included14:13 Who Decides What is a Classic17:43 Why is it a Classic18:54 Tech Dependence And AI29:30 Ratings And Wrap UpFreakonomics Radio episode “New Technologies Always Scare Us. Is AI Any Different?”https://freakonomics.com/podcast/new-technologies-always-scare-us-is-a-i-any-differentThe AI Doc: Or How I Became an Apocaloptimist. 2026.https://www.imdb.com/title/tt39150120/ 
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  Independent Bookstore Day Adventures in Montana 07.05.2026 34min

  On this week’s episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, join Andrea and Elizabeth as they share their Independent Bookstore Day adventures on a bookish road trip through cozy indie bookshops in Bozeman and Livingston to an unexpected stop in West Yellowstone. They talk about the bookstores they visited, books they picked up, and the unique experiences that made each shop special, from discounts and staff picks to author events and community art. Along the way, they reflect on the role independent bookstores play in supporting local communities and connecting readers. If you love bookstore crawls and hauls this episode is for you. 00:59 What is Independent Bookstore Day02:17 Bozeman Bookstores & Bargains15:32 Livingston Bookstores & Community Vibes23:17 West Yellowstone27:57 Take a Book Leave a Book Finds28:17 Overall Vibes29:46 Thoughts for Next YearBooks mentioned in this episode:Vesper Flights by Helen MacdonaldSilver Sparrow by Tayari JonesExhalation by Ted ChiangA Closed and Common Orbit by Becky ChambersThe Buried Giant by Kazuo IshiguroShōgun by James ClavellThe Eye of the World by Robert JordanA Marriage at Sea by Sophie ElmhirstThe Serviceberry by Robin Wall KimmererMy Heart Is a Chainsaw by Stephen Graham JonesSharp Objects by Gillian Flynn
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  Tolkien’s Legacy: The Hero’s Journey and Literary Nods to Middle-earth 23.04.2026 34min

  In this episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, we explore the lasting influence of J. R. R. Tolkien on modern fantasy and beyond. From shaping iconic tropes in The Lord of the Rings to inspiring authors like R. F. Kuang and Christopher Paolini, Tolkien’s impact spans generations. We also discuss the Hero's Journey as a timeless storytelling framework and how it plays into the Lord of the Rings. At the end of the episode we announce our next trilogy pick, swinging back into the realm of science fiction with Isaac Asimov’s Foundation trilogy.03:43 Spotting Tolkien References05:56 Influence vs Infringement08:57 What Is The Hero’s Journey12:16 Why Tropes Still Work13:56 Travel Inspired by Books14:40 Back to The Hero's Journey16:50 The Circle as a Symbol20:48 Tolkien-esque Names25:51 Tolkien Language Intent28:52 Eragon And Dragon Nostalgia32:05 Next Read Foundation Trilogy33:56 Episode Wrap And TeaserBooks MentionedThe Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. TolkienThe Hobbit by J. R. R. TolkienKatabasis by R. F. KuangThe Golden Compass by Philip Pullman Outlander by Diana GabaldonThe Sword of Shannara by Terry BrooksThe Lost Symbol by Dan BrownBrimstone by Callie HartWhen the Moon Hatched by Sarah A. ParkerEragon by Christopher PaoliniFoundation by Isaac AsimovLove chatting about books? Follow Galaxies and Goddesses and leave a review to support the show.
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  Return of the King: Epic Battles, Healing Hands, and Returning to the Shire 09.04.2026 40min

  Join Andrea and Elizabeth as they discuss The Return of the King, the epic conclusion to J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings, highlighting standout moments, character arcs, and what makes the ending memorable. They compare book and film differences, while emphasizing the book’s quieter moments and added history. They focus on Aragorn’s kingship revealed through the House of Healing, Éowyn’s confidence and role in defeating the Lord of the ringwraiths, and Faramir’s unexpected romance. They note the extensive chapters after the Ring’s destruction and both rate the series five stars, giving appreciation to Tolkien for his gift to the world.00:52 Where Return of the King Begins05:26 Books Versus Movies Debate07:55 Stand Out Moments10:52 Love in the House of Healing15:54 Encounters with Saruman18:39 The Battle Isn't the End of the Story24:348 Library Reading Buddies29:59 Feelings at the End32:28 It's Not a Trilogy38:05 RatingsSpoiler warning for:The Fellowship of the RingThe Two TowersThe Return of the KingReddit fan theories mentioned in the episode:Was Bilbo’s mithril coat originally made for Legolas?https://www.reddit.com/r/tolkienfans/comments/yr9lrl/bilbos_mithril_coat_was_made_for_legolas/
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  Adding 3 Books to Our TBR: Sci-Fi & Fantasy Picks, Wild Cards & Intimidating Reads 26.03.2026 30min

  In this special one year anniversary episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, we’re reflecting on our favorite moments from the past year of podcasting, how our reading habits have evolved, and the books that have shaped our journey. Instead of looking back at our top reads, we’re each adding three intentional picks to our TBR: a highly anticipated sci-fi or fantasy book, a wild card outside our usual genres, and an intimidating or long read we’ve been putting off. 06:49 The ‘River of Books’ & Managing a TBR09:33 Highly Anticipated Sci-Fi or Fantasy Book15:41 Wild Card Book Pick21:23 An Intimidating Read25:09 Tolkien and The Silmarillion27:45 Looking AheadBooks mentioned in the episode:The Raven Scholar by Antonia HodgsonA Canticle for Leibowitz by Walter M. Miller Jr.1984 by George OrwellFahrenheit 451 by Ray BradburyThe Housemaid by Freida McFaddenHow to Art: Bringing a Fancy Subject Down to Earth by Kate BryanThe Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha ShannonMoby-Dick by Herman MelvilleIn the Heart of the Sea by Nathaniel PhilbrickThe Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. TolkienThe Silmarillion by J.R.R. TolkienFollow along & explore more:Our 26 to Read in 2026:https://www.instagram.com/p/DT-wnMqicdB/TBR Mindset Post:https://www.instagram.com/p/DVNlgZfD7F8/Independent Bookstore Day (last Saturday in April):https://www.bookweb.org/independent-bookstore-day 💫 Have a favorite sci-fi or fantasy trilogy we should read next? Let us know! We’d love your recommendations!
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  The Two Towers: Hidden Heroism and Tolkien’s Deeper Themes 12.03.2026 33min

  Andrea and Elizabeth continue their journey through The Lord of the Rings with The Two Towers by J.R.R. Tolkien. With the Fellowship scattered, the story suddenly expands across Middle-earth, following Merry and Pippin’s unexpected role in the fall of Isengard, Aragorn and the Riders of Rohan at Helm’s Deep, and Frodo and Sam’s increasingly complex relationship with Gollum. Along the way, they discuss the deeper themes of mercy and redemption, as well as how the pacing and storytelling shift dramatically from The Fellowship of the Ring. With five-star ratings from both hosts, they call The Two Towers a fast-paced, action-driven, and unexpectedly humorous turning point in the trilogy.⚠️ Spoilers! for The Fellowship of the Ring and The Two Towers00:57 The Fellowship is Broken02:59 Merry & Pippin’s Big Purpose08:36 Merry and Pippin Continue to Shine13:10 Palantiri16:22 What Would Gandalf Do?18:08 Realm of Rohan21:44 Two Towers vs Fellowship23:31 Meta Storytelling Moments24:56 Gollum As A Timeless Character30:51 Well What About?31:30 RatingsJ.R.R.Tolkien’s Study of Beowulf “Beowulf: The Monsters and the Critics” (1936)https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beowulf:_The_Monsters_and_the_Critics✨Connect with UsFollow along for bookish updates, polls, and behind the scenes contentInstagram: @galaxiesandgoddesses
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  Mythmakers and Memoirs: The Power of Telling Your Own Story 26.02.2026 27min

  Join Andrea and Elizabeth as they explore the remarkable friendship between J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, including their Oxford writing groups, shared faith, as documented in the graphic novel biography The Mythmakers by John Hendrix. They discuss how belief, war, and literary community shaped The Lord of the Rings and The Chronicles of Narnia, then pivot to memoirs and the power of telling your own story, highlighting reads like I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy, Educated by Tara Westover, Born a Crime by Trevor Noah, while debating why some celebrity memoirs resonate more than others. 00:53 Exploring Tolkien and Lewis's Friendship02:36 The Mythmakers Graphic Novel10:07 Celebrity Memoirs and Their Impact13:35 Memoirs of Overcoming Trauma19:18 Trevor Noah is Wonderful23:56 Celebrities in Real Life26:25 Lord of Maps!Books mentioned in this episode: The Mythmakers by John HendrixThe Hobbit  by J.R.R. TolkienThe Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. TolkienThe Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. LewisKatabasis by R.F. Kuang Open Book by Jessica SimpsonI’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdyEducated by Tara WestoverThe Glass Castle by Jeannette WallsFriends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing by Matthew PerrySpare by Prince HarryBorn a Crime by Trevor NoahInto the Uncut Grass by Trevor NoahMemorial Days by Geraldine BrooksLord of Maps StampsBring your fantasy world to life with Lord of Maps stamps, designed for creating detailed, Middle-earth-inspired maps for tabletop gaming, journaling, or creative writing. For a limited time, use promo code GALAXIES for 10% off your order at https://lordofmaps.com/  Trevor Noah: Born a Crime 10-Year Anniversary and Tour DatesTrevor Noah’s bestselling memoir Born a Crime, which explores his childhood growing up during apartheid in South Africa, is celebrating its 10-year anniversary with a special re-release. Trevor Noah is also touring this year. https://www.trevornoah.com/ Jennette McCurdy Memoir Adaptation (Apple TV+)Jennette McCurdy’s bestselling memoir I’m Glad My Mom Died is being adapted into a 10-episode Apple TV+ series. Jennifer Aniston is set to star as McCurdy’s mother and will executive produce alongside McCurdy.  https://www.imdb.com/news/ni65360818/ Emerald City Comic Con 2026 Lord of the Rings Fan MeetupJoin us at Emerald City Comic Con in Seattle, March 5–8, for a Lord of the Rings fan meetup celebrating the works of J.R.R. Tolkien. We’ll be gathering on Thursday, March 5 to connect with fellow fantasy readers, Tolkien fans, and cosplay enthusiasts. https://www.emeraldcitycomiccon.com/en-us/experiences/meetups/meetup-info.html?gtID=923374&panel-name=Lord-of-the-Rings-Fan-Meetup Galaxies and Goddesses Bookshop.org StorefrontBrowse and shop all the books mentioned in this episode through our Bookshop.org storefront. Every purchase supports Galaxies and Goddesses while also helping sustain independent bookstores across the United States. https://bookshop.org/shop/galaxiesandgoddesses 
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  The Fellowship of the Ring: Long Roads, Dark Powers, Hope 12.02.2026 34min

  Andrea and Elizabeth dive into J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Fellowship of the Ring, comparing it to The Hobbit and the film adaptations while unpacking Tolkien’s themes of power, temptation, fellowship, and endurance. They discuss differences in pacing, tone, and character development, reflect on first-time versus reread experiences, and consider how reading The Hobbit first adds emotional depth. The conversation explores the corrupting influence and possible sentience of the Ring, Gandalf’s respect for hobbits, the mystery of Tom Bombadil, and how Tolkien builds scale through geography, time, and long roads across Middle-earth.⚠️ Spoilers for The Fellowship of the Ring and The Hobbit00:52 Synopsis and Initial Thoughts02:13 Reading it for the First Time05:01 Journey and Geography in Middle Earth09:31 What Surprised You?12:33 Tom Bombadil: A Mysterious Character14:10 Standalone Novel Discussion16:09 Goblins vs. Orcs: Clarifying the Confusion17:07 The Sentience of the Ring21:14 Sauron and Saruman: The Dark Forces23:53 Tom Bombadil: The Enigma27:51 The Fellowship and Character Bonds28:53 Rating and Reviewing the Book33:11 Fellowship Match QuizFellowship Match QuizDiscover your inner fantasy reader archetype with our quiz! Screenshot and share with us on Instagram so we can see who is part of our podcast fellowship! https://forms.gle/6WWHLRoaWy4PGTnv9✨Connect with UsFollow along for bookish updates, polls, and behind the scenes contentInstagram: @galaxiesandgoddesses
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  Trilogies on our TBR: Commitment, Cliffhangers, and Classic Epics 29.01.2026 26min

  In this episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, Andrea and Elizabeth dive into the trilogies they are currently reading and eagerly anticipating. They discuss Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel, Callie Hart’s Brimstone, and Colson Whitehead’s Harlem Trilogy, while exploring what makes the three book structure so compelling for readers. From historical fiction to fantasy, they reflect on the joy of committing to a trilogy and the anticipation of what comes next. The episode wraps up with their excitement for next week’s discussion of The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkien, inviting listeners to read along.00:55 Elizabeth's Recent Read: Wolf Hall04:11 Andrea's Recent Read: Brimstone07:18 Was the first book enough to commit?08:45 Colson Whitehead's Harlem Trilogy11:24 Book Covers and Shelf Frustrations12:31 When is a Trilogy Really a Trilogy?14:46 The Empire Trilogy and Thematic Storytelling17:49 History through a Fantasy Lens19:38 Dragon Trilogies Dilemma21:33 Finally Diving into The Lord of the Rings25:36 Wrapping Up and Looking AheadTrilogies and Series Mentioned:Wolf Hall Trilogy by Hillary Mantel Fae & Alchemy Series by Callie HartHarlem Trilogy by Colson WhiteheadHierarchy Series by James IslingtonThe Empire Trilogy by J.G. FarrellThe Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi Series by Shannon ChakrabortyThe Moonfall Series by Sarah A. ParkerUpcoming Read A Long TrilogyThe Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. TolkienThe Fellowship of the RingThe Two TowersThe Return of the KingSupport the ShowExplore our Bookshop.org storefront to find the books we discuss. Purchases support independent bookstores and help keep the podcast going.https://bookshop.org/shop/galaxiesandgoddesses 
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  Revisiting JRR Tolkien's The Hobbit: Nostalgia, Dragons, and Epic Adventure 15.01.2026 30min

  In this episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, Andrea and Elizabeth revisit J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit, diving into a spoiler-light discussion for new and returning readers. They reflect on personal reading experiences, explore Tolkien’s world building, songs, and maps, and compare the book to the movie adaptations. Join them as they share nostalgia, laugh at the dragon’s antics, and discuss why The Hobbit is the perfect introduction to Middle-earth. Fans of Tolkien, fantasy literature, and epic adventures won’t want to miss this episode! 00:32 Introduction to Middle-earth01:33 Personal Reading Experiences07:49 Tolkien's World Building10:40 Oral Quality of the Tale13:45 Why Bilbo?15:44 Dwarven Songs16:59 Maps!20:29 The Lord of the Rings in Theaters21:26 Would you read it again?22:19 Delightful Moments24:39 British Influence26:27 Final Thoughts and RatingsA brief introduction to JRR Tolkien’s Mapshttps://www.tolkienestate.com/painting/maps/ The Lord of the Rings Extended Edition in Theaters January 2026https://www.fathomentertainment.com/series/the-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy/Soon May the Wellerman Come Historyhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WellermanFollow us on Instagram @galaxiesandgoddesses for more books, magic, and updates!Support the Show:Explore our Bookshop.org storefront to find the books we discuss. Purchases support independent bookstores and help keep the podcast going.https://bookshop.org/shop/galaxiesandgoddesses 
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  Best Books of 2025: Our Top 10 Sci-Fi, Fantasy, and Standout Reads 01.01.2026 30min

  In this Season Two kickoff episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, Andrea and Elizabeth look back at their Top 10 books of 2025, spanning sci-fi, fantasy, romantasy, literary fiction, and standout nonfiction that reads like fiction. From epic, immersive reads and thought-provoking classics to surprising favorites and an audiobook honorable mention, they reflect on reading habits, bookish stats, and what makes a story truly memorable. Stick around to the end for the big reveal of the podcast’s 2026 theme.00:56 Top 10 Books of 202502:31 Similar Books in our Top 1003:59 Long Books and Epic Reads05:27 Medical Insights in Fiction06:57 Stephen King's Dark Tower Series08:00 Romantasy Reads and Sequels10:28 Book Club Favorites13:31 More of Elizabeth's Top 10 Books23:15 Rounding Out the Top 1025:12 Andrea's Favorite Audiobook of the Year26:16 Number of Books Read for the Year27:07 Epic Trilogies for 2026Books MentionedA Psalm for the Wild-Built — Becky Chambers (Andrea & Elizabeth)The Dispossessed — Ursula K. Le Guin (Andrea & Elizabeth)Awry with Dandelions — J.S. Fields (Andrea)The Covenant of Water —  Abraham Verghese (Elizabeth)Wolves of the Calla —  Stephen King (Elizabeth)The Moonday Letters — Emmi Itäranta (Andrea)Water Moon — Samantha Sotto Yambao (Andrea)Quicksilver — Callie Hart (Andrea)When the Moon Hatched — Sarah A. Parker (Andrea)All the Colors of the Dark — Chris Whitaker (Andrea)By Any Other Name — Jodi Picoult (Andrea)Wellness — Nathan Hill (Elizabeth)Bel Canto — Ann Patchett (Elizabeth)Say Nothing: A True Story of Murder and Memory in Northern Ireland — Patrick Radden Keefe (Elizabeth)James — Percival Everett (Elizabeth)Squeeze Me — Carl Hiaasen (Elizabeth)In the Heart of the Sea — Nathaniel Philbrick (Elizabeth)Blood Over Bright Haven — M.L. Wang (Andrea)Honorable Mention: Best Audiobook You Didn’t Hear This From Me: Mostly True Notes on Gossip — Kelsey McKinney, narrated by the author Referenced Articles and Media:New York Times: The 100 Best Books of the 21st Centuryhttps://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2024/books/best-books-21st-century.html The Global Wellness Economy Hits a Record $6.8 Trillion and Is Forecast to Reach $9.8 Trillion by 2029https://globalwellnessinstitute.org/press-room/press-releases/the-global-wellness-economy-hits-a-record-6-8-trillion-and-is-forecast-to-reach-9-8-trillion-by-2029The Smithsonian Magazine - The Snakes That Ate Floridahttps://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/snakes-ate-florida-180972534/Freakonomics Podcast - The First Great American Industryhttps://freakonomics.com/podcast/the-first-great-american-industry/In the Heart of the Sea - IMDBhttps://www.imdb.com/title/tt1390411/ 
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  Reflecting on Water Moon: A Journey Through a Magical Ghibli-esque World 18.12.2025 32min

  Andrea and Elizabeth dive into their December book pick, Water Moon by Samantha Sotto Yambao. This listener voted book pick made it to the second round of the Goodreads Choice Awards, is discussed in detail, including its synopsis and thematic elements. The story follows Hana Ishikawa, the new owner of a mystical pawn shop in Tokyo, as she embarks on a journey to find her missing father. The hosts analyze the book's Ghibli-esque charm, poetic writing, romantic subplot, cultural references, and philosophical themes. They conclude with their ratings and comparisons to similar works, recommending it to fans of Japanese cozy fantasy and those intrigued by magical realism.Spoiler Alert: We do go into spoilers mid-episode!Content Note: This episode discusses themes of regret, reproductive choice (including implied abortion), and pregnancy/childbirth.02:35 Meaning of the Title05:49 Romance Sub-plot10:15 Fictional Folklore12:01 Japanese Vocab14:26 Dreamlike Reflections of the Real World18:47 Well, What About?22:49 Spoilers and Interpretations25:15 Flying Paper Birds26:44 Folding the Cover28:34 Ratings29:53 Other Similar Books31:16 Closing RemarksSimilar Book RecommendationsDaughter of the Moon Goddess by Sue Lynn TanThe Night Circus by Erin MorgensternThe Full Moon Coffee Shop by Mai Mochizuki Similar Movie RecommendationsSpirited AwayEternal Sunshine of the Spotless MindInceptionOther Books with Flying Paper BirdsThe Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly BarnhillThe Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu MandannaWhen the Moon Hatched by Sarah A ParkerWhat is the Super-Kamiokande? https://www-sk.icrr.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en/sk/about/outline/ No Face from Spirited Awayhttps://ghibli.fandom.com/wiki/No-FaceKitsune from Japanese folklorehttps://www.britannica.com/topic/kitsune The Art of Japanese Ceramics Repair - Kintsugi https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/KintsugiWater Moon themed Playlist on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/playlist/25kdPSzyM0b9w6v0T7LYEV?si=DqPUE3jaSyefSQVK_PRDzQBarnes and Noble Monthly Pick -  Guest Post by Samantha Sotto Yambaohttps://www.barnesandnoble.com/blog/samantha-sotto-yambao-guest-post/ 
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  Numbers, Novellas, and a Touch of Holiday Cheer 04.12.2025 31min

  Andrea and Elizabeth delve into the world of novellas, discussing the defining characteristics of a novella and the blurry line where it becomes a novel. They share their favorite short reads of the past month, including Automatic Noodle, The Outsiders, and Amsterdam. The episode also highlights Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, exploring its cultural impact, the accuracy of its numerous adaptations, and its enduring significance as a holiday classic. 00:00 Introduction to Novellas00:46 Defining a Novella04:39 Novella Stats06:24 Automatic Noodle by Annalee Newitz10:45 The Outsiders by SE Hinton13:06 Amsterdam by Ian McEwan15:02 A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens24:27 The Fantasy Elements in A Christmas Carol28:18 Recommending a Classic30:25 Wrapping UpBooks mentioned in this episode:I’m a Fan by Sheena PatelThe Outsiders by SE HintonAmsterdam by Ian McEwanAutomatic Noodle by Annalee NewitzA Christmas Carol by Charles DickensWater Moon by Samantha Sotto Yambao - Our December Book PickSFWA Nebula Award Criteriahttps://nebulas.sfwa.org/about-the-nebulas/nebula-rules/Hugo Award Criteriahttps://www.thehugoawards.org/hugo-categories/ A Christmas Carol Audiobook - Narrated by Patrick Stewarthttps://open.spotify.com/show/5q6TxUY7gYLCEbCNAh24Yt?si=192f9fdc5fca485f A Christmas Carol at Grand Stree Theatre, Helena, MThttps://grandstreettheatre.com/event/a-christmas-carol/Michael Caine Loves The Muppet Christmas Carol as Much as You DoBy Lauren Larson, December 15, 2016https://www.gq.com/story/michael-caine-muppet-christmas-carol-interview Support the ShowExplore our Bookshop.org storefront to find the books we discuss. Purchases support independent bookstores and help keep the podcast going.https://bookshop.org/shop/galaxiesandgoddesses 
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  Hope, Harmony, and Reflection: A Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky Chambers 20.11.2025 29min

  Andrea and Elizabeth dive into Becky Chambers’ solarpunk novella Psalm for the Wild-Built and explore its themes of hope, utopia, and relatable self-discovery. They discuss Sibling Dex’s journey, the meaning of sentience, and how solarpunk reimagines sustainable futures in science fiction.Episode Chapters00:00 A Psalm for the Wild-Built00:55 Understanding Solarpunk01:57 Initial Impressions05:32 Character Analysis: Sibling Dex07:38 Language and Gender in Literature09:50 Relatability11:07 Asking Big Questions13:37 Personal Utopia14:50 Sentience and Robots20:23 Recommended by a Bookseller23:15 Adapting the Book for Screen25:36 Rating and Final Thoughts27:50 Supporting the PodcastSupport the ShowExplore our Bookshop.org storefront to find the books we discuss. Purchases support independent bookstores and help keep the podcast going.https://bookshop.org/shop/galaxiesandgoddesses References Mentioned: Genre of Solarpunkhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SolarpunkAreas of outstanding natural beauty (AONBs): Designation and managementhttps://www.gov.uk/guidance/areas-of-outstanding-natural-beauty-aonbs-designation-and-managementFuzz: When Nature Breaks the Law by Mary Roachhttps://www.maryroach.net/fuzz.htmlNew Zealand National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee: Animal sentiencehttps://www.nawac.org.nz/animal-sentienceLate Night with Seth Meyers: The Best of The Kind of Story We Need Right Nowhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UABJH6zLHBEHugo Award lists for 2022: Psalm for the Wild-Built Won Best Novellahttps://www.thehugoawards.org/hugo-history/2022-hugo-awards/ 
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  To Borrow or To Buy: The Ultimate Book Lover's Dilemma 06.11.2025 31min

  In this episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, Andrea and Elizabeth dive into the age-old debate of borrowing versus buying books. They discuss their personal experiences, motivations, and the joy of owning or sharing books. Highlights include anecdotes about book fairs, the allure of special editions, independent bookstores, and the ethical considerations of supporting authors and local businesses. The episode also touches on the thrills of discovering new reads through unexpected avenues such as estate sales and Little Free Libraries. They emphasize the underlying love for stories, regardless of how the books are acquired.00:00 Borrowing V Buying04:20 Different Feel to Buying Versus Borrowing06:04 Dandelion Chocolate06:53 Special Edition Books09:26 Borrowing from Little Free Libraries14:54 Unconventional Ways of Buying Books16:48 Adventure and Discovery of In Person Book Browsing20:09 The Debate on Supporting Used Bookstores24:27 Atypical Library Books27:48 No Patience for the Hold List29:26 Concluding Thoughts on Book Buying and BorrowingBooks mentioned in this episode:Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe When the Moon Hatched by Sarah A. Parker Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros A Dance with Dragons by George R. R. Martin One Dark Window by Rachel Gillig Two Twisted Crowns by Rachel Gillig Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer Gulliver’s Travels by Jonathan Swift The Great Gatsby by F. Scott FitzgeraldFuzz: When Nature Breaks the Law by Mary RoachBlackfish City by Sam J. MillerThrone of Glass series by Sarah J. Maas Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky Chambers (November book pick)A Sweet Shoutout to Dandelion ChocolateDandelion Chocolate’s 2025 Advent Calendar is a delicious way to honor 25 of our Solar System’s moons this holiday season. This is an affiliate link, not a discount, and another way to support the show while giving something special to yourself or others.dandelionchocolate.pxf.io/7azQny Friends Of The Historical Museum At Fort Missoula’s Annual Used Book Salehttps://fortmissoulamuseum.org/event/annual-used-book-sale/The Ninepipes Museum of Early Montanahttps://ninepipesmuseum.org/Arts Midwest: National Endowment for the Arts Big Readhttps://artsmidwest.org/about/updates/announcing-the-2025-26-nea-big-read-grantees/FY2025-26 NEA BIG READ TITLEShttps://artsmidwest.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/NEA-Big-Read-25-26-Titles.pdf Galaxies and Goddesses now has a Bookshop.org affiliate storefront! It’s a curated page where we share the books we talk about on the podcast. When you buy through our storefront, Bookshop.org donates a portion of every sale to independent bookstores nationwide and we earn a small affiliate commission. It’s a great way to support indie bookstores and our show at the same time.https://bookshop.org/shop/galaxiesandgoddesses 
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  Dragons, Romantasy, and World Building: When the Moon Hatched by Sarah A Parker 23.10.2025 30min

  In this episode of Galaxies and Goddesses, Andrea and Elizabeth dive into When the Moon Hatched by Sarah A. Parker, a sweeping romantasy filled with dragons, magic, and mystery. They unpack the novel’s intricate world building, discuss what defines epic fantasy versus romantasy, and share their first impressions, including how this hefty book compares to War and Peace in sheer size.From the protagonist’s haunted frozen lake coping mechanism to paper birds that come to life and shimmering aurora cycles, the hosts explore what makes this story and its world so unforgettable. They also draw comparisons to other epic and romantasy favorites such as A Court of Thorns and Roses, Fourth Wing, Throne of Glass, The Name of the Wind, and The Lord of the Rings trilogy.Spoiler warning! There are a few MAJOR mid-episode spoilers.00:00 When the Moon Hatched01:14 First Impressions and Book Size04:41 Romantasy vs. Epic Fantasy08:06 World Building and Unique Concepts16:09 Characters & Tropes19:29 Spoiler Alert!23:21 Explicit Content24:35 When the Moon _______26:29 Final Thoughts and RatingsOther links and resources: PBS segment on Romantasyhttps://www.pbs.org/video/romantasy-1706739868/ Romantasy: An Old Genre with a New Name, blog article, February 25, 2025 by Rosemary Jones, Science Fiction Writer’s Association https://www.sfwa.org/2025/02/25/romantasy-an-old-genre-with-a-new-name Between Pages & Friends Podcast: Interview with Sarah A Parkerhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sarah-a-parker-interview-when-the-moon-hatched/id1747110661?i=1000731947711Sarah A Parker Instagram Post: Ballad of Falling Dragons to the Copy Editor https://www.instagram.com/p/DP40si9E_Vf/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==Tak: The boardgame from the world of Patrick Rothfusshttps://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/197405/takYou can support this podcast and independent bookstores through purchasing the book When the Moon Hatched on Bookshop.org with the affiliate link below:https://bookshop.org/a/117783/9780063415805