In this episode of the Book Fair Podcast, host Anthony interviews author Shelby Mahurin about her latest book, The Shadow Bride, which concludes the Serpent & Dove universe. They discuss character development, the exploration of tropes in fantasy literature, and the complexities of good and evil in a gothic fantasy setting. Shelby shares insights into her writing process, the challenges of portraying vampires, and the themes of strength and hierarchy within her characters. The conversation also touches on the impact of her work and her future projects as an author.

New Releases:

• Carousel Summer by Kathleen Gros

• Midnight Motorbike by Maureen Shay Tajsar, illustrated by Ishita Jain

• Boys with Sharp Teeth by Jenni Howell

• Survive This Safari by Natalie D. Richards

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Shelby Mahurin and The Shadow Bride

01:01 Exploring Character Tropes in Fantasy

05:59 Navigating Good and Evil in Gothic Fantasy

08:12 Intrusive Thoughts and Character Development

10:23 Strength and Hierarchy in Vampire Society

11:38 Masculinity and Power Dynamics in The Shadow Bride

12:25 Closing the Serpent and Dove Universe

13:33 Future Projects and Author Identity

15:56 New releases

22:02 Headlines

Host Anthony interviews author Kyle Lukoff in honor of the Trans Day of Visibility. They discuss Lukoff's latest book, the importance of teaching pride to young readers, and the intersectionality in LGBTQ+ literature. Lukoff shares insights on sincerity in writing, the role of a trans adult as a role model, and the current state of reading and libraries in America. He also offers advice for aspiring writers and emphasizes the significance of children's literature in giving young readers a sense of agency.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Book Fair Podcast and Trans Day of Visibility

00:59 Interview with Kyle Lukoff: Celebrating Pride in Literature

04:20 Exploring Intersectionality in LGBTQ+ Literature

08:00 The Role of Honesty and Sincerity in Writing

10:41 The Impact of a Former Librarian on Writing

13:23 Advice for Aspiring Writers

16:37 Understanding Children as Readers

18:23 The Broader Themes in Kyle's Work

20:08 New Releases

In this episode of the Book Fair Podcast; we discuss recent children's literature releases and the implications of a new executive order affecting library funding. The episode highlights several new books aimed at young readers, emphasizing themes of adventure, self-discovery, and resilience. Additionally, we address library services, stressing the importance of libraries in communities.

New Releases:

• The House at the Edge of Magic (The House at the Edge of Magic #1) by Amy Sparkles, with illustrations by Ben Mantle

• At Home in a Faraway Place by Lynne Rae Perkins

• True Life in Uncanny Valley by Deb Caletti

• A Catalog of Burnt Objects by Shana Youngdahl

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and New Releases Overview

02:54 Exploring New Children's Books

08:01 Impact of Executive Order on Library Funding