Show Notes
Shapeshifting monster Shesheshen is on the run when she meets Homily, a human, who she is instantly drawn to, in the book Someone You Can Build a Nest In by John Wiswell. Hosts Annika and Goldie explore some of the questions this story asks, such as: Is it wrong to tell your girlfriend that you want to eat her mom? What is a monster, and do we all have to see the same things as beautiful? And what does it mean to want to build a life with someone instead of eat them? Other highlights include "monster enthusiasts," mobility assistants (which may or may not be someone else's femur), stories for those who don't usually get stories, and literal gender fluidity.
More from Reading the Rainbow
Recorded at the Dauphin County Library System's Rainbow Makers' Fair on 6/20/26, Amber interviews makers and attendees to find out their favorite queer books and tropes!
Reflecting on how far books have come in LGBTQ+ representation since they were kids, Ben and Jamie discuss some of the books that made an impact on them in their journeys.
The truly riveting Meg Day joins cohosts Ben and Samantha in this episode as they discuss Day's book, Last Psalm at Sea Level. Meg describes their inspiration for this breathtaking collection of poetry , from Donne and deafness, to simply wanting to be seen for who you are. An hour has never gone by so quickly! If you're interested in reading Last Psalm at Sea Level after listening to this episode, consider borrowing it from your local library or purchasing it from an independent bookstore!
If you've ever wished for an early 20th century book that combines capitalism with a lavender marriage and a winking narration style, Olivia Wolfgang-Smith's Mutual Interest should be on the top of your TBR pile!