We Speak Volumes: A Bards Alley Bookshop Podcast
By Bards Alley Bookshop
We Speak Volumes: A Bards Alley Bookshop PodcastMar 25, 2024
Robert Louis Stevenson's The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde
Welcome back listeners! In today's episode, join Jen and Lane in exploring the dark, twisted side that hides within all of us... Or at least, within the ultra-notorious Dr. Jekyll. Behind the story, discover the incredible, adventurous, and tragically short life of Robert Louis Stevenson's (R.L.S.).
:
- Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde (Bookshop.org paperback)
- Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde (libro.fm audiobook)
Show Links:
Michael Crichton's Jurassic Park
Welcome back listeners! And Deinophobes, look away! In today's episode, join Jen and Lane in discussing Michael Crichton's modern classic Jurassic Park. Delve into the differences between the novel and the hyper-popular Spielberg movie adaptation, and ponder about the affects of the story on current films and events.
Episode Links:
Referred to in the episode:
- Radiolab (Podcast)
- The Movies That Made Us S2 E3 - Jurassic Park (IMDb link)
Buy the book:
Jurassic Park (Bookshop.org paperback)
Jurassic Park (libro.fm audiobook)
Show Links:
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's Holmes
Welcome back, my dear listeners! Join Jen and Lane today discussing one of the most popular characters ever, the ultra-genius consulting detective Sherlock Holmes. Put on your deerstalker caps, grab your magnifying glass, and discover with us how Sir Arthur Conan Doyle created Sherlock's world, and how his stories have resonated around ours.
Episode Links:
Referred to in the episode:
Young Sherlock Holmes (IMDb link)
Without a Clue (IMDb link)
Sherlock (BBC) (IMDb link)
Elementary (IMDb link)
House M.D. (IMDb link)
Enola Holmes (IMDb link)
Sherlock Holmes: The Complete BBC Collection (Audible.com link)
Buy the books:
The Sign of the Four (Bookshop.org paperback)
The Sign of the Four (libro.fm audiobook)
The Hound of Baskervilles (Bookshop.org paperback)
The Hound of Baskervilles (libro.fm paperback)
The Complete Sherlock Collection (Bookshop.org hardcover)
Show Links:
Children's Classics
Welcome back, listeners! In honor of World Read Aloud Day, Jen and Lane talk about the beautiful world of children's classics, one of the genres that has come to be closest to our hearts. We couldn't decide on a particular story, since there are just too many favorites to nail it down to a particular one! Join us in discussing how children's books have evolved over time, how they affected us when we were kids versus now as adults, and in contemplating what "current classics" have already made their mark in the children's books canon.
Show Links:
S. E. Hinton's The Outsiders
Welcome back listeners! In today's episode, join Jen and Lane in discussing the great American classic The Outsiders. A standard in many states' English curricula and banned in others, the story of Ponyboy, his family, and the rivalry between the Greasers and Socs has remained a timeless staple of the American story. A must-read, The Outsiders has a message for everyone. Take a listen, and as always, stay golden!
Episode Links:
Referred to in the episode:
- The Outsiders: Complete Novel (Amazon Prime Movie)
Buy the book:
- The Outsiders (Bookshop.org paperback)
- The Outsiders (libro.fm audiobook)
Show Links:
Louisa May Alcott's Little Women
Welcome to the new year, listeners! In today's episode, Jen and Lane discuss Louisa May Alcott's Little Women, a coming-of-age story detailing the transition to womanhood for four sisters Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy. Dive in deep with us and learn the origins of the story, how they were personally reflective of Alcott's own life, and how this book influenced American literature.
Episode Links:
Referred to in the episode:
- Meg, Jo, Beth, Amy: The Story of Little Women and Why It Still Matters (Bookshop.org paperback)
- Hospital Sketches (Bookshop.org paperback)
- March by Geraldine Brooks (Bookshop.org paperback)
Buy the book:
- Little Women (Penguin Classics paperback)
- Little Women (libro.fm audiobook)
Show Links:
Agatha Christie's The Murder of Roger Ackroyd
Welcome back listeners! In today's episode of We Speak Volumes, put on your deerstalkers and whip out your magnifying glasses for this classic murder mystery by Agatha Christie, the G.O.A.T.! The Queen of Crime's genre-defining writing has long been regarded as best-in-class, and in this episode Jen and Lane discuss how she broke literary barriers, smashed reader expectations, and earned her spot as the best-selling author of all time.
Episode Links:
Referred to in the episode:
- The Science of Murder: The Forensics of Agatha Christie by Carla Valentine
- Agatha Christie's Poirot: The Greatest Detective in the World by Mark Aldridge
- Who Killed Roger Ackeroyd? by Pierre Bayard
Buy the book:
- The Murder of Roger Ackroyd (Warbler Classics paperback)
- The Murder of Roger Ackroyd (libro.fm Audiobook)
Show Links:
Annie Dillard's Pilgrim at Tinker Creek
Welcome back listeners! On this episode of We Speak Volumes, join Jen and Lane and take a step back into nature with Annie Dillard's nonfiction classic, Pilgrim at Tinker Creek. Allow yourself to reconnect with the outdoors by means of Dillard's flowing, intimate descriptions of the life surrounding her inside the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. Ruminate on the place of oneself within one's surroundings, and experience the exhilarating tales of one stalking nature itself. Listen in listeners, because Jen even has a surprise correspondence from Ms. Dillard herself, a WSV scoop!
Episode Links:
Buy the book:
Show Links:
Washington Irving's The Legend of Sleepy Hollow
Welcome back, listeners! Continuing our theme of spooky tales leading up to Halloween, Jen and Lane dive into the classic short story The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Discover how the lanky schoolteacher Ichabod learns of the ghastly tale of the Headless Horseman, and finds himself in a terrifying encounter with the pumpkin wielding specter. Also, learn with us about the centuries-lasting impact of Washington Irving and other Knickerbockers throughout American literature and culture. (and seriously, what is a Whim-wham?)
Episode Links:
Mentioned: Three Men in a Boat (bookshop.org)
Buy the book:
- The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and Other Stories (bookshop.org)
- The Legend of Sleepy Hollow (audible.com reading by Anthony Heald)
Show Links:
Bram Stoker's Dracula
Welcome back, listeners! In today's spooky episode, Jen and Lane get into the October spirit by diving into a classic: Bram Stoker's Dracula. Rediscover the horror of the terrifying blood-sucker that has become a staple in our culture, and how the cliches of vampires are not enough to define this incredible story. Join us, and share your thoughts!
Episode Links:
Mentioned: Elizabeth Costova's The Historian (Amazon.com link)
Buy the book:
Show Links:
Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice
Welcome back, listeners! In this exciting relaunch of the We Speak Volumes podcast, join hosts Jen and Lane as they discuss Jane Austen's beloved classic Pride and Prejudice. They delve into the depth of Austen's characters and the timeless appeal of the story. They also explore various adaptations and retellings of the novel, both classical and modernized. Join us on this journey and share your thoughts.
Episode Links:
Pride and Prejudice poster: Pride and Prejudice
Buy the book:
Show Links:
Raymond Chandler's The Big Sleep
Jen and Lane delve into the world of Raymond Chandler's classic novel, The Big Sleep. They explore Chandler's unique writing style and how it impacted the mystery genre. Fascinatingly, the mystery begins with a bookstore! The hosts also discuss other important mystery authors from the local Bards Alley community, including Angie Kim, Harper Kincaid, Ellen Crosby, and David Baldacci.
Episode Links:
Buy the book:
- The Big Sleep (Physical Copy)
- The Big Sleep (Audiobook)
Recommended Mystery Authors:
Show Links:
Charlotte Brontë's Jane Eyre
Join hosts Jen and Lane in this week's episode as they delve into Charlotte Brontë's Jane Eyre. They'll examine how the author's perspective on feminist values continue to resonate with readers today. In addition, Jen discovers some surprising connections between Jane Eyre and The Walking Dead. Don't miss this insightful discussion of more classic literature!
Episode Links:
Buy the book:
Show Links:
Willa Cather's O Pioneers!
In this episode, Jen and Lane dive into the classic novel O Pioneers! by Willa Cather. They discuss the character of Alexandra Bergson and how she defies gender norms and societal expectations to become a successful and respected farmer, even as an immigrant. Whether you're a fan of classic literature or just looking for a thought-provoking conversation, this episode is sure to leave you inspired and engaged. Tune in to hear how Jen draws an exciting comparison between the book and the hit TV show The Walking Dead!
Episode Links:
Buy the book:
- O Pioneers! (Physical Copy)
- O Pioneers! (Audiobook)
Show Links:
Alexandre Dumas' The Three Musketeers
All for one and one for all! Join Jen and Lane as they delve into the timeless adventure of "The Three Musketeers" by Alexandre Dumas. They discuss the novel's memorable characters and how a ragtag team has captivated readers for generations. In this episode, the hosts also explore the inspiration behind the original story and shed light on whether the 1948 or 1993 film adaptations followed the original plot. Additionally, they examine a local author's adaptation, "One for All" by Lillie Lainoff, and discuss the gender-bent retelling.
Follow Bards Alley Bookshop @bardsalley and interact with the podcast on social media!
Episode Links:
Buy the book:
- The Three Musketeers (Physical Copy)
- The Three Musketeers (Audiobook)
- One for All (Physical Copy)
Show Links:
F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby
Welcome, old sport! Jen and Lane have an exciting episode for you, where they dive into F. Scott Fitzgerald's masterpiece, The Great Gatsby. Lane serves up her thoughts on the book's characters while Jen spills the beans on how Bards Alley, with the masterful help of Phil Charlwood, built a Gatsby-themed float during a 2021 parade in Vienna, Virginia. So, put on your flapper dress and get ready to party like it's the roaring '20s because this episode is going to be the bee's knees!
Follow Bards Alley Bookshop @bardsalley and interact with the podcast on social media!
Episode Links:
Buy the book: The Great Gatsby (Paperback)
Gatsby Float - Bards Alley: 2021 Halloween Parade
Show Links:
John Ball's In the Heat of the Night
In celebration of Black History Month, Jen and Lane delve into John Ball's "In the Heat of the Night." This classic mystery novel set in the South during racial tensions is a relevant and impactful work to reflect on this month. Jen and Lane analyze themes of racism and social justice, and compare the book to the Oscar-winning film adaptation. Join them for a thought-provoking conversation about this timeless classic and its significance in our society today.
Follow Bards Alley Bookshop @bardsalley and interact with the podcast on social media!
Episode Links:
Buy the book:
Show Links:
Octavia E. Butler's Kindred
Join hosts Jen and Lane as they discuss Octavia Butler's classic novel, Kindred. Explore themes of family, identity, and history as they delve into the story of a young Black woman transported to the antebellum South and forced to confront slavery. In addition, the hosts will also give their thoughts on the recent Hulu adaption of the novel. Tune in for a thought-provoking survey of this Sci-Fi title.
Follow Bards Alley Bookshop @bardsalley and interact with the podcast on social media!
Episode Links:
Buy the book:
Show Links:
Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol
Jen and Lane are unwrapping their reflections of a true holiday classic, A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. The original story, released 179 years ago on December 19th, 1843! How does the timeless classic stack up against your favorite movie adaptation? How long did it take Dickens to write the story? What is a Smoking Bishop? These answers and more can be found in this special episode. Happy Holidays!
Follow Bards Alley Bookshop @bardsalley and interact with the podcast on social media!
Episode Links:
Buy the book:
- A Christmas Carol and Other Christmas Writings
- Paperback: A Christmas Carol (Illustrated)
- Audiobook: A Christmas Carol (Unabridged)
Drink Recipe: Smoking Bishop
Show Links:
Anne Tyler's The Accidental Tourist
Follow Bards Alley Bookshop @bardsalley and interact with the podcast on social media!
Episode Links:
Buy the book: The Accidental Tourist by Anne Tyler
Show Links:
Bards Alley Bookshop Website
Podcast Book List - Bookshop.org
Podcast Audiobook List – LibroFM
Episode Teaser – Anne Tyler's The Accidental Tourist
Jen and Lane have been hard at work preparing Bards Alley Bookshop for the holidays! They needed a little extra time to cover their next book, so listen in for a short sneak peak. Don't forget to follow for a special episode release later this week for Thanksgiving travel!
Follow Bards Alley Bookshop @bardsalley and interact with the podcast on social media!
Episode Links:
- Buy the book: The Accidental Tourist by Anne Tyler
Show Links:
Stephen King's The Stand | Part 2
Continuing this week with Stephen King's The Stand, Jen and Lane finish sharing their thoughts on this post-apocalyptic novel. If you haven't already, listen to the last episode, The Stand: Part I. Tune in to hear how this epic classic novel concludes and if anyone survives!
Follow Bards Alley Bookshop @bardsalley and interact with the podcast on social media!
Episode Links:
- Buy the book: The Stand by Stephen King
Show Links:
Stephen King's The Stand | Part 1
Back again with another spooky classic, Jen and Lane discuss another haunted title, Stephen King's The Stand. Plus, you'll hear special guest, Jen's sister Donna, describe her experience with Stephen King's horror novels. Turn on the lights and lock the doors for this frightening classic. Stay tuned, as this book had so much to discuss you'll have to come back for part two!
Follow Bards Alley Bookshop @bardsalley and interact with the podcast on social media!
Episode Links:
· Buy the book: The Stand by Stephen King
Show Links:
Mary Shelley's Frankenstein
During this October, Jen and Lane are bringing you spooky classics, starting this week with Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. You may be familiar with the famous bumbling green oaf, but did you know that Shelley's original monster had super human strength and speed with the ability to speak eloquently? Find out more exciting FUN FACTS and you'll be able to pull off the most accurate Frankenstein's monster at your next party!
Follow Bards Alley Bookshop @bardsalley and interact with the podcast on social media!
Episode Links:
· Buy the book: Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
Show Links:
Gabriel García Márquez's One Hundred Years of Solitude
How much can a secluded, insular family change throughout several generations? Join Jen and Lane as they discuss, One hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez. Lane will also explore her new role as an armchair physicist, explaining Block Universe Theory and how it relates to the fabric of time and space in this magical realism book.
Follow Bards Alley Bookshop @bardsalley and interact with the podcast on social media!
Episode Links:
· Buy the book: One Hundred Years of Solitude
· Check out LITHUB.com!
Show Links:
Banned Books Week
Jen and Amy call attention to Banned Books Week and the importance of the #FReadom to read. They discuss the history of this celebratory week, from its inception by the American Library Association; why fighting censorship is important; and some of the most frequently challenged books.
Follow Bards Alley Bookshop @bardsalley and interact with the podcast on social media!
Episode Links:
- Banned Books Week 2022 – Bards Alley's Banned Books List
- ALA.org – American Library Association
- FTRF.org – Freedom to Read Foundation
- BannedBooksWeek.org
Other Links:
J. K. Rowling's Harry Potter Series
Jen and Lane are excited to share some of their favorite fantasy series that scratch that Harry Potter itch. They touch on the recent controversy surrounding J. K. Rowling, as well as, discuss the magic of the Harry Potter series and how it has inspired children and adults across the world.
Follow Bards Alley Bookshop and interact with the podcast on social media @bardsalley!
Links:
Bards Alley Bookshop Website
Podcast Bookshop List
James M. Cain's The Postman Always Rings Twice
If you love cats, step back in time and discover this noir crime thriller from 1934. Learn why James M. Cain's The Postman Always Rings Twice was labeled as a banned book after its release. More importantly, uncover the biggest mystery: where is the postman in this story?
Links:
Bards Alley Bookshop Website
Podcast Bookshop List
Tag us @bardsalley to share your thoughts on social media!
What Makes a Book a Classic?
Ancient conflicts, mythological journeys, and the human condition–what makes a book a classic? Jen and Amy reminisce in Bards Alley Bookshop about their favorite classic books. Tune in to hear if your favorite classic gets an honorable mention!
Links:
Bards Alley Bookshop Website
Podcast Bookshop List
Tag us @bardsalley to share your thoughts on social media!
Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream
This time, Jen and Amy share their favorite passages from the Bard himself in Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream! In addition to learning how to insult your friends with the official Shakespeare Insult Generator, Amy shares her intriguing comparison between the Rude Mechanicals and the characters from the show Friends. Jen also shares the story behind the inspiration for the bookstore's name, Bards Alley.
Links:
Bards Alley Bookshop Website
Podcast Bookshop List
Tag us @bardsalley to share your thoughts on social media!
Persuasion - Netflix Adaptation Critique
Join us for this special bonus episode to hear Jen and Amy's critique of Netflix's Persuasion. Find out what they liked, or strongly disliked, about the latest adaptation of their favorite Jane Austen novel. Reach out to us on social media @bardsalley to let us know your thoughts about the book and/or movie. Follow along for the next episode!
Jane Austen's Persuasion
In this exciting first episode of We Speak Volumes, Jen and Amy discuss their favorite Jane Austen novel, Persuasion. Wether you are brand new to Jane Austen, or need a refresher before watching the new Netflix adaptation (or preferably, the 1995 BBC version, our favorite), this episode explores kinship and Wentworth's plume to your heart's content.
Episode 1 PREVIEW - Jane Austen's Persuasion
Hey listeners! We are so excited to share with you the first episode of We Speak Volumes: A Bards Alley Bookshop Podcast. We're going to be talking about Jane Austen's Persuasion in the first episode. So here's a little preview for what to expect. Hope you enjoy!
Podcast Trailer
This is We Speak Volumes: A Bards Alley Bookshop Podcast, for classic book lovers of all ages. Your hosts, Jen and Amy, owner and book buyer of Bards Alley Bookshop in Vienna, Virginia, will talk about some of their favorite book classics, what they mean to them, and how they've impacted their own personal story. They've got have a lot cover, and their TBR pile isn't getting any smaller, so let's book it!