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Throwback Paperback: A Young Adult Novel Podcast

Throwback Paperback: A Young Adult Novel Podcast

By The Nerd Party

Throwback Paperback is a book club podcast on the Nerd Party network hosted by best friends Asia Bonilla and Charles Scheland. Asia and Charles share young adult books with each other
that one of them read, but the other never got to, and they see how these young adult staples
appear when read or re-read as adults. Every week, they assign which book and chapters they
will be covering the following week and they start with a brief summary if you can’t read along.
Then they dive into the plot, themes, and experience of favorite young adult books.
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Currently playing episode

Episode 106 - Switch: Chapters 18-34

Throwback Paperback: A Young Adult Novel PodcastOct 24, 2022

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46:56
Episode 140 - Aqueous

Episode 140 - Aqueous

Throwback Paperback was gifted complimentary copies of this book by the publishing house, but received no other compensation in exchange for us reading this book.

This week we have a special episode covering the debut novel of Jade Shyback. She takes a new spin on dystopian literature as human society has collapsed under the burden of climate change. Society has moved under water, and now Marisol Blaise has to come to terms with growing up as the adoptive daughter of the admiral of Aqueous station. It’s a dramatic and suspenseful book that kept us wanting for more. 

Listen to the end for a very special announcement. 


Jun 19, 202301:05:04
Episode 139 - They Return: Chapters 24-45

Episode 139 - They Return: Chapters 24-45

TW: This episode includes topics of death, violence, and self harm. Please take care of yourself and only listen if these are safe topics for you. If you need to talk to someone or need further resources, you can visit the resources page for National Coalition Against Domestic Violence here: ​​https://ncadv.org/RESOURCES. Please listen at your discretion. 

Throwback Paperback was gifted complimentary copies of this book by the publishing house, but received no other compensation in exchange for us reading this book.

It’s another intense and violent episode this week on Throwback Paperback. We’re covering the second half of They Return so in addition to Francesca bringing back Leonard’s friends and withering away, the other friends make and execute a plan to attack Leonard and get rid of him for good. We have a lot to say about plans as usual. There is some wonderful romance, so that is a high-note, but we also have some more withering opinions about the reading so be prepared for that. 

Next week we will be reading a new book in one week, Aqueous.

Jun 12, 202301:26:46
Episode 138 - They Return: Chapters 1-23

Episode 138 - They Return: Chapters 1-23

TW: This episode includes topics of death, violence, and self harm. Please take care of yourself and only listen if these are safe topics for you. If you need to talk to someone or need further resources, you can visit the resources page for National Coalition Against Domestic Violence here: ​​https://ncadv.org/RESOURCES. Please listen at your discretion. 

Throwback Paperback was gifted complimentary copies of this book by the publishing house, but received no other compensation in exchange for us reading this book.

It’s another week of craziness this week as we cover the first half of They Return. Miles is adjusting to his new life, and the lovers are recovering from their battles. Francesca is being forced to bring back all of Leonard’s friends which is super evil and twisted. We have a lot to say about that, and what creeps us each out individually. There’s hope for romance, but also a lot of suspense and tension. So be prepared for a dramatic episode. 

Next week we will be reading chapters 24-45 of book 3 in the series, They Return. 


Jun 05, 202344:35
Episode 137 - They Whisper: Chapters 20-38

Episode 137 - They Whisper: Chapters 20-38

TW: This episode includes topics of mental abuse, death, violence, kidnapping, gun violence, alcoholism, drug addiction, and PTSD. Please take care of yourself and only listen if these are safe topics for you. If you need to talk to someone or need further resources, you can visit the resources page for National Coalition Against Domestic Violence here: ​​https://ncadv.org/RESOURCES. Please listen at your discretion. 

Throwback Paperback was gifted complimentary copies of this book by the publishing house, but received no other compensation in exchange for us reading this book.

This week we finish They Whisper, and if it was chaotic before, things just get even crazier. There is violence and attacks and a plan to swap Miles’ spirit into a new body because his is really falling apart. There’s some passion for the lovers of romance, but also some jealousy and complications so that sucks. Overall we have a lot to say about the content, though it still is a page turner. We just can’t stop reading. 

Next week we will be reading chapters 1-23 of book 3 in the series, They Return.


May 29, 202301:03:36
Episode 136 - They Whisper: Chapters 1-19

Episode 136 - They Whisper: Chapters 1-19

TW: This episode includes topics of mental abuse, death, violence, kidnapping, gun violence, alcoholism, drug addiction, and PTSD. Please take care of yourself and only listen if these are safe topics for you. If you need to talk to someone or need further resources, you can visit the resources page for National Coalition Against Domestic Violence here: ​​https://ncadv.org/RESOURCES. Please listen at your discretion. 

Throwback Paperback was gifted complimentary copies of this book by the publishing house, but received no other compensation in exchange for us reading this book.

It’s time for more darkness and spook factor as we dive into the first half of They Whisper. The haunting continues as the super sleuth team tries to both chase down Leonard and deal with their own problems like a decaying zombie and a love triangle. These books have been crazy busy already, but we’re going to throw in even more elements this week. 

Next week we will be reading chapters 20-38 of book 2 in the series, They Whisper.


May 22, 202301:05:28
Episode 135 - They Stay: Chapters 20-39

Episode 135 - They Stay: Chapters 20-39

TW: This episode includes topics of physical and mental abuse, death, violence, kidnapping, gun violence, alcohol abuse, references to suicide, sexual abuse, and bullying. Please take care of yourself and only listen if these are safe topics for you. If you need to talk to someone or need further resources, you can visit the resources page for National Coalition Against Domestic Violence here: ​​https://ncadv.org/RESOURCES. Please listen at your discretion. 

Throwback Paperback was gifted complimentary copies of this book by the publishing house, but received no other compensation in exchange for us reading this book.

This week we finish They Stay the first book in Claire Fraise’s series. The haunting continues as Shiloh tries to save her brother Max from Leonard’s evil clutches. The squad also includes Miles, Jonah, and Francesca, who discovers that she has some of her own powers. The tensions in the relationship rise, and we have lots of commentary on it, unsurprisingly. We get some of our questions answered but more arise, and we are left with a dramatic cliffhanger that you cannot miss. 

Next week we will be reading chapters 1-19 of book 2 in the series, They Whisper.


May 15, 202301:03:36
Episode 134 - They Stay: Chapters 1-19

Episode 134 - They Stay: Chapters 1-19

TW: This episode includes topics of physical and mental abuse, death, violence, kidnapping, alcohol abuse, references to suicide, implied sexual abuse, and bullying. Please take care of yourself and only listen if these are safe topics for you. If you need to talk to someone or need further resources, you can visit the resources page for National Coalition Against Domestic Violence here: ​​https://ncadv.org/RESOURCES. Please listen at your discretion.

Throwback Paperback was gifted complimentary copies of this book by the publishing house, but received no other compensation in exchange for us reading this book.

In a darker turn we start Claire Fraise’s thriller series They Stay this week. In a spooky turn of events we follow Shiloh as she tries to protect her little brother Max from their abusive father until Max is eventually kidnapped. Simultaneously, Francesca is speaking to ghosts and is disturbed by occurrences in the world of the dead. The two unlikely friends have to team up to both try to save Max and the eternal rest of the dead. Of course there is much more to discuss, as we break down the first half of this thriller.

Next week we will be reading chapters 20-39 of book 1 in the series, They Stay.


May 08, 202350:30
Episode 133 - Extras: Chapters 28-54

Episode 133 - Extras: Chapters 28-54

TIme to finish another series on Throwback Paperback, as we finish Extras, and thereby Scott Westerfeld’s Uglies series. In this book we get the conclusion of Aya’s quest to be popular and discover the hidden goals of the aliens. Tally comes back with strong main character energy, and Shay comes back as the classic worst. Aya reveals that this whole series is bigger than we ever thought, and we thoroughly enjoy the reading. You can’t miss this episode as we finish the whole series.

Next week we will be reading chapters 1-19 of They Stay, book 1 in our new series, They Stay.


May 01, 202338:46
Episode 132 - Extras: Chapters 1-27

Episode 132 - Extras: Chapters 1-27

Thank you Scott Westerfeld for writing another book because we are incredibly excited and happy to stay in the Uglies world with the follow-up fourth book, Extras. We’ve switched to a new protagonist, whom we enjoy, and we love the haunting and scary social media aspect of this book. Is it maybe a little too close to home? Possibly, but we really get into it. We follow Aya Fuse on her meteoric rise from complete nobody as an Extra to one of the most popular people in the city and Tally Youngblood sliding into her DMs. The book is a treat, and hopefully our episode is too.
​Next week we will be reading chapters 28-54 of book 4 in the series, Extras.

Apr 24, 202348:03
Episode 131 - Specials: Chapters 26-50

Episode 131 - Specials: Chapters 26-50

We finish the original Tally Youngblood arc this week as we finish off Specials. All hell breaks loose with Tally’s city attacking the newfound city of Diego. Tally and Shay make plans to prevent a full war, but those plans are obviously derailed, so it, as always, falls to Tally to save the day. Will she? The most main-character energy person we’ve ever read about? Will she win it all? Do all the boys still flock to her? On a more serious note, both hosts have truly enjoyed reading the Uglies series, and we’re very grateful that there’s another book in the series for us to dive into.

Next week we will be reading chapters 1-27 of book 4 in the series, Extras.


Apr 17, 202348:54
Episode 130 - Specials: Chapters 1-25

Episode 130 - Specials: Chapters 1-25

Specials hits the ground with quite a bang as Tally has been made into the thing she always swore she wouldn't become. Working for Shay, Tally is a powerful operative of the city, but that facade starts to crack as she sees her one true love Zane again. Once again they depart the city, and once again Shay and Tally fight. We have a lot to say about that, let me tell you. Twilight vampires are fully back this week, so just brace yourself for that.

Next week we will be reading chapters 26-50 of book 3 in the series, Specials.


Apr 10, 202338:60
Episode 129 - Pretties: Chapters 21-39

Episode 129 - Pretties: Chapters 21-39

Tally is off on another adventure as we finish out Pretties. After Peris disappoints us once again, Tally makes her escape from the city only to discover the reach of the city’s influence. It turns out that the city keeps active experiments of pre civilization savages for academic study in nearby reservations. She then makes her way to the new smoke successfully only to have a bunch of plot twists unleashed on her (and us the reader). Join us as we get the answers about the cure and all of Tally’s boyfriends.

Next week we will be reading chapters 1-25 of book 3 in the series, Specials.


Apr 03, 202301:00:50
Episode 128 - Pretties: Chapters 1-20

Episode 128 - Pretties: Chapters 1-20

Forging right ahead, this week we cover the first half of Pretties in Scott Westerfeld’s Uglies series. Things have changed because Tally has been made a Pretty, and she has a new best friend and love interest in Zane. They start a journey of rediscovery as they start to question the Pretty system. They develop a strategy to resist Pretty-brain, and try to inspire their friends to follow. It’s a great reading, and we’re definitely still enjoying the series. We’re both holding out hope that this series continues to be excellent.

Next week we will be reading chapters 21-39 of book 2 in the series, Pretties.


Mar 27, 202344:22
Episode 127 - Uglies: Chapters 26-50

Episode 127 - Uglies: Chapters 26-50

It’s the second week of Uglies, and this book has really turned around for us. Can it be? Are we both in complete agreement to enjoy this series? This episode introduces romance for Asia and really great plot-twist/worldbuilding for Charles, so it really has everything. Tally truly commits to the Smoke, only to have everything burned to the ground. She and David have to mount a dramatic rescue, so there’s action as well. We also compare this series so far to other dystopian series touchstones, so you can’t miss that.

Next week we will be reading chapters 1-20 of book 2 in the series, Pretties.


Mar 20, 202352:34
Episode 126 - Uglies: Chapters 1-25

Episode 126 - Uglies: Chapters 1-25

New series time, we are starting Scott Westerfeld’s Uglies, and we are pleasantly surprised to discover that these books really were at the beginning of the Dystopian revolution. We enter a post-cultural world where everyone becomes surgically beautiful when they reach adulthood, except the rebels who live out of the society in the Smoke. Will our protagonist Tally join them? Will she develop a personality? Will this book continuously and pleasantly surprise us? We shall see!

Next week we will be reading chapters 25-50 of book 1 in the series, Uglies.

Mar 13, 202354:18
Episode 125 - The Grave Robbers of Genghis Khan

Episode 125 - The Grave Robbers of Genghis Khan

It’s series wrap-up week here at Throwback Paperback. Are the tears flowing? Well we finish the Children of the Lamp with the Grave Robbers of Genghis Khan, and unsurprisingly we have a lot of thoughts. You do not want to miss the spice as we go on another jetsetting adventure: Italy, Morocco, Kazakhstan, Australia, and Mongolia this week. The wrap up of the series just leaves us with lots of feelings that we can’t spoil here in the description. You just have to listen to find out.

Next week we will be reading chapters 1-25 of Uglies, book 1 in our new series, Uglies.

Mar 06, 202301:14:19
Episode 124 - The Five Fakirs of Faizabad

Episode 124 - The Five Fakirs of Faizabad

Let’s do the time-warp again! Book 6 of the Children of the Lamp is possibly our most chaotic as the children discover the secrets of the Five Fakirs of Faizabad. The characters spread all across the globe with trips to the UK, Morocco, Yellowstone, Tel Aviv, and finally Tibet. We reconnect with Mr. Rakshashas only to lose him again, and we spend a good deal of time unpacking the very surprising ending. We also get into the tone and vibe of this book. Does it seem different to anyone else as well?

Next week we will be reading a new book in one week, The Grave Robbers of Genghis Khan, book 7 of the The Children of the Lamp series.

Feb 27, 202354:18
Episode 123 - The Eye of the Forest

Episode 123 - The Eye of the Forest

It’s time for book 5 of the Children of the Lamp, by P.B. Kerr, the Eye of the Forest. This book takes our main characters plus some new additions off to South America where they have to both save the planet from Djinn related catastrophe and solve climate change. Unlike previous books in this series, it seems our characters are mostly together this week following one direct plotline, so we make up for in action what we miss in complexity. See some returns of known characters as well as some new ones as we explore another culture with Djinn connections.

Next week we will be reading a new book in one week, The Five Fakirs of Faizabad, book 6 of the The Children of the Lamp series.

Feb 20, 202301:07:10
Episode 122 - The Day of the Djinn Warriors

Episode 122 - The Day of the Djinn Warriors

If the last book was intricate and complicated, just wait until you read this week’s book, The Day of the Djinn Warriors. Week 4 of the Children of Lamp has many many plot lines starting with the resurrection and subsequent installment of Faustina as the new Blue Djinn, the downfall of Dybbuk as Jonathan Tarot, and the rise of Iblis. We go to China as the Ifrit, or big bad as Asia calls them, try to invert all luck in the entire world in favor of evil. Of course, as always we have a breakneck rush to the finish and resolution, though for the first time, this book definitely does not end in a perfect happy ending, so we are taking the turn towards more serious topics.

Next week we will be reading a new book in one week, The Eye of the Forest, book 5 of the The Children of the Lamp series.

Feb 13, 202349:59
Episode 121 - The Cobra King of Kathmandu

Episode 121 - The Cobra King of Kathmandu

Week 3 of the Children of the Lamp, and this week the adventure is off to Kathmandu in Nepal. Definitely the grossest book in the series, the twins have to save their friend Dybbuk and then save their uncle Nimrod which takes them to a snake cult in Nepal. This is the most intricate and complex of the plots we’ve had in the series and really sets up some important story lines moving forward. Mr. Groanin takes on an even larger role in this book, cementing himself as a main character and iconic comic relief.

Next week we will be reading a new book in one week, The Day of the Djinn Warriors, book 4 of the The Children of the Lamp series.

Feb 06, 202345:51
Episode 120 - The Blue Djinn of Babylon

Episode 120 - The Blue Djinn of Babylon

DISCLAIMER: Charles’ audio is particularly rough this week due to NYC radiators. He apologizes profusely!

It’s week two of the Children of the Lamp, we’re reading the second book, The Blue Djinn of Babylon. Perhaps unsurprisingly, this book features another dramatic adventure that we just send a twelve year old on, because apparently that is acceptable. In a wild turn of events Phillippa is kidnapped by the twins’ grandmother, and John has to rescue her via a multinational expedition and solo trip through lost Babylon. This book really adds to the worldbuilding of the series, so you won’t want to miss it if you love that kind of thing.

Next week we will be reading a new book in one week, The Cobra King of Kathmandu, book 3 of the The Children of the Lamp series.

Jan 30, 202301:02:49
Episode 119 - The Akhenaten Adventure

Episode 119 - The Akhenaten Adventure

It’s time for a new series, The Children of the Lamp! It’s week one, so we read the whole first book, The Akhenaten Adventure. We follow our fellow New Yorkers, John and Phillippa Gaunt as they discover that they are djinn or what we would consider genies. They can grant wishes and make all sorts of cool things happen with their subconscious. This week was a lot of exposition and then all of the sudden a bunch of action at the end, so it led to a weird podcast episode. But your hosts have a lot of fun sharing personal stories, so this is a good week to get to know us and our shenanigans!

Next week we will be reading a new book in one week, The Blue Djinn of Babylon, book 2 of the The Children of the Lamp series.

Jan 23, 202342:07
Episode 118 - Love, Stargirl

Episode 118 - Love, Stargirl

We are going to follow Stargirl on her journey to Pennsylvania. She writes the longest letter of all time to her ex, Leo, for the entirety of this week’s book: Love, Stargirl. We follow her as she goes through immense growth, gradually getting over Leo and finding a way to be accepted and enjoyed by her whole community. It really is a story of growth for our protagonist that makes it quite enjoyable to read. The book reads as an excellent sequel to the original Stargirl novel.

Next week we will be reading a new book in one week, The Akhenaten Adventure, book 1 of The Children of the Lamp.

Jan 16, 202350:23
Episode 117 - Stargirl

Episode 117 - Stargirl

It’s new series time for a cute duology, Jerry Spinelli’s Stargirl books. Back to quirky school time, and realistic fiction, Stargirl bursts onto the scene in suburban Arizona, and causes mayhem in the school district. Leo and the whole school struggle with their relationship to Stargirl’s antics, and this leads to a quite lively debate between the hosts that you cannot miss. There are arguments on both sides of the debate, so we definitely want to hear from our listeners as to how they feel about it!

Next week we will be reading a new book in one week, Love, Stargirl, book 2 of the Stargirl series.

Jan 09, 202355:24
Episode 116 - Talking to Dragons

Episode 116 - Talking to Dragons

It’s the last week in the Enchanted Forest Chronicles and we’re reading Talking to Dragons. This book follows Cimorene’s son, Daystar as he has to find his way back to his father’s castle and free him from the wizards’ enchantment. We discuss his journey and its similarities to his mother’s initial quest. We get deep into a discussion of reading order because this book was initially published first and re-released in chronological order after the first three books were written. This is quite a healthy conversation and debate as to the correct reading order which you do not want to miss.

Next week we will be reading a new book in one week, Stargirl, book 1 of the Stargirl series.

Jan 02, 202339:03
Episode 115 - Calling on Dragons

Episode 115 - Calling on Dragons

We’re in the second half of The Enchanted Forest Chronicles, covering Calling on Dragons, a book following Morwen. The adventure starts slowly as the wizards are wreaking havoc, but we did call that. Asia and Charles are justifiably annoyed that the wizards were given enough free reign to continue to cause problems. There’s lots of complicated magic, and a little bit of a quest. There is also some girl-boss energy so you definitely don’t want to miss it.

Next week we will be reading a new book in one week, Talking to Dragons, book 4 of The Enchanted Forest Chronicles.

Dec 26, 202240:21
Episode 114 - Searching for Dragons

Episode 114 - Searching for Dragons

It’s another week of adventure on Throwback Paperback as we meet the king of the enchanted forest in Searching for Dragons. Mendanbar is trying to answer questions about his kingdom, and Cimorene is looking for Kazul so they team up to get some answers while making new friends along the way. They fight wizards, travel a bunch, and of course just for Asia, fall in love. Join us as we follow the love birds in their dragon-searching quest.

Next week we will be reading a new book in one week, Calling on Dragons, book 3 of The Enchanted Forest Chronicles.

Dec 19, 202249:25
Episode 113 - Dealing with Dragons

Episode 113 - Dealing with Dragons

It’s new series time here at Throwback Paperback! We’re starting a Charles pick: The Enchanted Forest Chronicles by Patricia Wrede. And will you believe it, but does Asia like fantasy now? We are definitely in a world of magic: spells, witches, princesses, dragons, and wizards. But we also have excellent and engaging characters, and that’s so fun! Join us in the Enchanted Forest for sassy one-liners and molten wizards, and a stone-prince whose name we don’t know.

Next week we will be reading a new book in one week, Searching for Dragons, book 2 of The Enchanted Forest Chronicles.

Dec 12, 202232:49
Episode 112 - Reached: Chapters 33-63

Episode 112 - Reached: Chapters 33-63

It’s the finale of the Matched trilogy and the plague variant is truly reeking havoc throughout the Rising/Society. The golden trio is tasked with finding a cure, and they also have to figure out who gets to end up with whom. We don’t want to spoil the ending so this might be a brief description, but you will of course get our final thoughts. Maybe this is too much of a spoiler, but we can confirm that both of us liked the ending and the whole series.

Next week we will be reading a new book in one week, Dealing with Dragons, book 1 of The Enchanted Forest Chronicles.

Dec 05, 202243:41
Episode 111 - Reached: Chapters 1-32

Episode 111 - Reached: Chapters 1-32

The Rising is upon us as we cover the first half of Reached. Cassia, Ky, and Xander are placed throughout the society at key points and watch from different angles as the Rising easily takes over the society through a plague that they alone had the cure to heal. Obviously, we have a long discussion on that and its functionality as a plot device. But of course, since the Rising and Society bear many similarities many things are not fixed and this only continues as a variant of the plague comes along and causes more trouble. Cassia, Ky, and Xander are forced to dive head first into the love triangle of it all and work together to survive. Oh joy, another love triangle.

Next week we will be reading chapters 33-63 of book 3 in the series, Reached.

Nov 28, 202257:31
Episode 110 - Crossed: Chapters 27-54

Episode 110 - Crossed: Chapters 27-54

Once reunited, of course there must be trouble in paradise in the second half of Crossed. Ky and Cassia find each other, only to have division sown between them. Cassia and Indy really want to join the rising; Ky really does not. Combine that and the fact that Xander is secretly part of the rising, and you have this week’s reading full of tension. Some of our mysteries continue to linger, and we are still vibing with the central relationship, so we still classify this series as a page-turner, but we are seeing the cracks and foreshadowing of future issues.

Next week we will be reading chapters 1-32 of book 3 in the series, Reached.

Nov 21, 202238:09
Episode 109 - Crossed: Chapters 1-26

Episode 109 - Crossed: Chapters 1-26

Ky and Cassia are split up as they start their lives of resistance in Crossed. Cassia is working as a laborer planning her chance to break out in search of Ky, and Ky is being used as a human shield looking to find Cassia. With some help on both ends, including that of Xander, the two escape the society and start to trek further away from the central district, and luckily they are reunited, but things have changed between them as they have both learned of an upcoming rebellion, the rising. They must now see if they can and even want to join the open rebellion against the society.

Next week we will be reading chapters 27-54 of book 2 in the series, Crossed.

Nov 14, 202255:39
Episode 108 - Matched: Chapters 17-32

Episode 108 - Matched: Chapters 17-32

Romance is in the air in the second half of Matched! Cassia and Ky’s relationship develops quickly from furtive glances to well much more than that. Their behavior seems poised for rebellion, but they also seem to have no plan to act on that rebellion. That is fine of course, but leaves your hosts confused. The two protagonists seem to be desirous of fighting the society but actually seem to have no plans or efforts to get what they want. This reading actually has some dramatic twists and turns with an ending that leaves us with a lot of questions. But that’s not a bad thing; we’re thrilled to keep reading.

Next week we will be reading chapters 1-26 of book 2 in the series, Crossed.

Nov 07, 202240:52
Episode 107 - Matched: Chapters 1-16

Episode 107 - Matched: Chapters 1-16

We dive into The Society as we cover the first half of Allie Condie’s Matched. Cassia lives in a post-society utopia, and everything seems perfect when she is matched with her hot best friend Xander. Lucky them, they get to be together forever and live happily ever after. Of course, that doesn’t make for an interesting story and instead Cassia starts to fall in love with another forbidden boy, Ky. This series is the embodiment of tropes and love triangles, and we are enjoying it. Meanwhile, Cassia’s grandfather stirs rebellion in her which will probably come back more importantly later. In a society that is The Giver meets Divergent, we follow Cassia’s path and love life full of drama.

Next week we will be reading chapters 17-32 of book 1 in the series, Matched.

Oct 31, 202255:08
Episode 106 - Switch: Chapters 18-34

Episode 106 - Switch: Chapters 18-34

We finished a series today! Today we have finished Switch, and thereby the whole Savvy trilogy. Gypsy and company get their groove back and collect grandma Pat, only to be irresponsible and lose her again. The prophecy does come true because of course it has to, and Charles has plenty to say about that. Let us know if you can follow his logic and his frustration when he goes down this fortune-telling rabbit hole. Join us as we finish up our exploration of the savvy world and we have our final discussion of the characters, concept, readability etc. Did you enjoy the series as much as we did?

Next week we will be reading chapters 1-16 of Matched, book 1 in our new series, The Matched Trilogy.

Oct 24, 202246:56
Episode 105 - Switch: Chapters 1-17

Episode 105 - Switch: Chapters 1-17

It’s time for the final Savvy book and we return to the Beaumont branch of the savvy family with Gypsy as she turns thirteen as well as older brother Samson and younger brother Tuck. Just as Gypsy is getting some control over her kind of stupid savvy, some important family news rattles the Beaumonts and all savvy bearers and savvy-eligble people switch their savvies. Needless to say, this leads to some chaos. The family must learn to scumble their new savvies while trying to deal with the familial pressures of moving an unwilling grandparent into their house. The final savvy book definitely is pulling out all the stops and building up all the tension.

Next week we will be reading chapters 18-34 of book 3 in the series, Switch.

Oct 17, 202237:43
Episode 104 - Scumble: Chapters 19-36

Episode 104 - Scumble: Chapters 19-36

We’re back with Ledger on his journey of scumbling his explosive savvy. He and cousin Rocket start to bond which definitely helps, though Sarah Jane continues her campaign of interference. This time big bad Noble Cabot gets involved and decides to come after the savvy family ranch. Rocket and Ledger have to help each other scumble despite all the pressures from around them distracting them and preventing their growth. We have a tender and touching journey of self-acceptance and we get to learn the deep secrets of scumbling your hidden savvy as well as some important family secrets along the way.

Next week we will be reading chapters 1-17 of book 3 in the series, Switch.

Oct 10, 202229:31
Episode 103 - Scumble: Chapters 1-18

Episode 103 - Scumble: Chapters 1-18

We’re staying in the savvy world, as we cover the first half of Scumble and follow along with Ledger Kale as he gets his savvy. Ledger’s savvy has him blowing things up and yet his irresponsible parents drive cross-country with him for a wedding. Don’t worry, we have plenty to say about that and bad parenting. Ledger and his sister then get to spend the rest of the summer on the farm of savvy family rejects for people who are failing to scumble. Ledger continues to get in trouble, mostly due to the actions of local town girl Sarah Jane Cabot. Ledger is trying to learn to scumble while also trying to keep family secrets.

Next week we will be reading chapters 19-36 of book 2 in the series, Scumble.

Oct 03, 202243:38
Episode 102 - Savvy: Chapters 19-37

Episode 102 - Savvy: Chapters 19-37

The craziest road trip ever continues as Mibs and colony continue to travel along in the second half of Savvy. Mibs starts to figure out her savvy and how to control it, but at this point they’ve been taken away from their parents for over 24 hours so that’s not going to end well. We follow the kids on the rest of their trip in an effort to grow up, free Lil and Lester from social restraints, and get back to Papa Beaumont which was the original point of the whole quest. We continue to enjoy the book, the family relationship, and just the whole tenor of the story so we’re thrilled to keep reading in this savvy world.

Next week we will be reading chapters 1-18 of book 2 in the series, Scumble.

Sep 26, 202232:39
Episode 101 - Savvy: Chapters 1-18

Episode 101 - Savvy: Chapters 1-18

New series time on Throwback Paperback! We are reading Savvy by Ingrid Law, and it’s a Charles pick that Asia likes. We are just as surprised as you are. The Beaumont family all have special gifts, or savvies as they call them, and Mibs is about to turn 13 and receive hers. Unfortunately a bunch of things go wrong, and Mibs is now on a bus traveling with her brothers, her friends, and some random adults. This book so far is heart-warming and entertaining with likable characters and a fun premise. Hopefully this enjoyment can continue!

​Next week we will be reading chapters 19-37 of Savvy, book 1 in the series, The Savvy Trilogy.

Sep 19, 202244:12
Episode 100 - Full Tilt

Episode 100 - Full Tilt

It’s time for another Neal Shusterman book as we cover Full Tilt. This book was another Asia recommendation, and once again it’s a personal recommendation from Neal directly. This book is more of a thriller, and follows Blake, his brother Quinn, and his friends. They go on amusement park rides and eventually dive into a transformative psychological experience. Ultimately this book takes the protagonists on a deep exploration of trauma with a moral to melt your heart. However, this does end up catering more exclusively to a younger audience, as it leaves both hosts with a sense of lacking. How did you feel after reading it??

Next week we will be reading chapters 1-18 of Savvy, book 1 in our new series, The Savvy Trilogy.

Sep 12, 202239:29
Episode 99 - Elsewhere

Episode 99 - Elsewhere

We’re entering the life after death, as we cover Elsewhere. This time we explore another take on what happens after death. Liz, our 15 year old protagonist gets hit by a car and comes to terms with loss. This book is another tender story that both hosts enjoy. It’s an excellent book that leaves both you, the reader, and our hosts satisfied. You will enjoy the themes and Liz’s journey, so you should definitely join us in Elsewhere. (See what I did there?)

Next week we will be reading a new book in one week, Full Tilt.

Sep 05, 202239:41
Episode 98 - The Lovely Bones

Episode 98 - The Lovely Bones

TW: This episode includes topics of graphic violence, rape, and murder. Please take care of yourself and only listen if these are safe topics for you. If you need to talk to someone or need further resources, the national sexual assault hotline is: 1-800-656-4673. Please listen at your discretion.

In our possibly heaviest book ever covered on Throwback Paperback, this week, we read The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold. Susie Salmon watched her hometown from heaven after her violent murder. She follows her family’s deterioration and breakage, her friends‘ forlorn futures, and her murderers efforts to evade justice. Susie slowly comes to terms with the tragedy in her life as she lives vicariously through her sister and loves her family from a distance. This book is poignant and heavy and takes a new approach to discussing tragedy. The focus is on the aftermath for those left behind, and we commend the effort to build a realistic response to unspeakable tragedy for each unique character.

Next week we will be reading a new book in one week, Elsewhere.

Aug 29, 202201:05:19
Episode 97 - Looking for Alaska

Episode 97 - Looking for Alaska

Today we’re starting a new unit of sad fiction picked by Asia. To start off this set of four single books we’re starting with cult classic Looking for Alaska by John Green. A once controversial book for introducing young adults to young adult appropriate content, this book follows teenagers at boarding school as they rebel against a repressive system and search for the meaning of life. Miles, the Colonel, and Alaska are coming of age when an unfortunate tragedy strikes. They go through classic teen angst and hormonal development. The book accurately and humanly deals with the struggles of adolescence, and both hosts enjoy this book and its ultimately hopeful conclusion.

Next week we will be reading a new book in one week, The Lovely Bones.

Aug 22, 202255:02
Episode 96 - The Last Battle

Episode 96 - The Last Battle

We are finally here, at the ending of Narnia. This week we cover The Last Battle, as the last king of Narnia along with Jill and Eustace try, and fail, to save the world. This book is heartbreaking because of all of the lies and deceit, but we do get a reunion with almost all of our main characters from the last six books. Asia has a lot to say about the ending and the overall message of the book, while Charles is much less critical. The whole world ends with a big judgment day, so there are Christian metaphors abound. It’s a dramatic and shocking ending to the series.

Next week we will be reading a new book in one week, Looking for Alaska.

Aug 15, 202259:22
Episode 95 - The Silver Chair

Episode 95 - The Silver Chair

We’re beginning the end of the Chronicles of Narnia as we cover book 6, The Silver Chair. This book might be Charles’ favorite while it definitely does not impress Asia. Eustace is back, with a new companion, Jill, as they quest for Caspian’s long lost son. They travel out of Narnia, and it turns out they’re both frequently stupid. We all know how Asia responds to stupid characters. Luckily, they are able to find and rescue the prince, and surprisingly enough they do it without Aslan swooping in to save the day. We can definitely feel the ending of the series coming.

Next week we will be reading a new book in one week, The Last Battle, book 7 of The Chronicles of Narnia.

Aug 08, 202254:23
Episode 94 - The Voyage of the Dawn Treader

Episode 94 - The Voyage of the Dawn Treader

It’s time for an adventure as we cover book 5, The Voyage of the Dawn Treader. This book is an undisputed fan favorite, and possibly Asia’s favorite book in the series. Shocking! We meet Eustace who is a pain, and we see the return of two Pevensie children, Caspian, and the indisputable best character, Reepicheep. The gang are traveling east to find Aslan’s country, and boy does Asia have something to say about that. Aslan makes frequent appearances as they move east and find more islands and trials. This book definitely feels like a highlight of the series for both co hosts.

Next week we will be reading a new book in one week, The Silver Chair, book 6 of The Chronicles of Narnia.

Aug 01, 202247:08
Episode 93 - Prince Caspian

Episode 93 - Prince Caspian

Back to the famous Chronicles this week, we are covering Prince Caspian. We’re turning over a new leaf because Asia actually enjoys this book. We are finally starting to get some series connective tissue for her and more fun characters. She continues her journey of disliking a main character, and we start to see the infamous decline of Susan in the reader’s view. We applaud the construction of this plot full of callbacks and laying the groundwork for future books. Of course, we do have hot takes, so it’s worth listening to hear them.

Next week we will be reading a new book in one week, The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, book 5 of The Chronicles of Narnia.

Jul 25, 202254:49
Episode 92 - The Horse and His Boy

Episode 92 - The Horse and His Boy

This week it’s time to return to the golden age of Narnia, but our story takes place in the neighboring countries of Calormen and Archenland. Shasta, Aravis, Hwin, and Bree travel through Calormen to the free North in an adventure that Charles enjoys and Asia tolerates. This book we get into a longer conversation about the stereotypes and accusations of racism levied against the series. Do you agree with our takes? Asia is starting to develop a least favorite character in the series that is frankly unexpected, so definitely listen to hear whom she’s not vibing with.

Next week we will be reading a new book in one week, Prince Caspian, book 4 of The Chronicles of Narnia.

Jul 18, 202248:54
Episode 91 - The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe

Episode 91 - The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe

It’s time for the most famous of the Chronicles of Narnia. This week we read the iconic The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. We meet the Pevensie children and discuss the things that Asia remembered from the Disney movie, as well as much of the heavy Christian imagery within the story. Charles continues to enjoy the nostalgia, while Asia remains unconvinced. These books are definitely for a younger audience, so while we can breeze through the short and simple readings, there is definitely a heft and complexity that we are missing.

Next week we will be reading a new book in one week, The Horse and his Boy, book 3 of The Chronicles of Narnia.

Jul 11, 202247:13