Giovanni's Room by James Baldwin
Hey, listeners!
While we’re sad to be leaving Pride and Prejudice behind, today, we are thrilled to be sharing our episode on James Baldwin’s Giovanni’s Room. Baldwin is one of Chelsey’s favorite authors, and this was Sara’s first experience reading one of his novels. Our discussion includes marveling at his skill with language, what the book says about Americanness, and, of course, six contemporary pairings that explore race, sexuality, and identity.
Download today’s episode in your favorite podcast app!
Here are the links of the week:
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Coming up:
Next week we’ll be back with our spring edition of short story club! We’ll discuss Octavia Butler’s pandemic story “Speech Sounds” on the podcast April 13th. We’d love for you to read along with us! Then on April 20th, we’ll be back with an episode on the sci-fi classic, Slaughterhouse-Five by Kurt Vonnegut.
On Wednesday, April 14th, we’ll be teaching an introduction to literary theory for our Patreon Literature Scholars. We are super excited about this class, which will serve as a jumping off point for many future classes, deep dives, and discussions. Sign up for Patreon to attend.
For a reminder of our spring lineup, check out this Instagram post for a full list and dates.
Currently reading:
We’re both in the middle of rereading Slaughterhouse-Five soon for our upcoming recording! Chelsey just picked up The Whispering House by Elizabeth Brooks and Sara is listening to an advanced copy of One, Two, Three by Laurie Frankel (out June 8th).
Where to find us:
Download episodes of Novel Pairings wherever you get your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. Check out our blog for bonus pairings, reading tips, and book recommendations. Find Chelsey at @chelseyreads or @hereadsheread. Find Sara at @fictionmatters and her newsletter. We love hearing what you’re reading, so tag us in your #bookstagram posts!
We declare after all, there is no enjoyment like reading! How much sooner one tires of any thing than of a book!
-Sara and Chelsey