The Hunger Games - Bread and circuses and child murder

We’re back for part two of our deep dive into Harrow the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir—because let’s be honest, one episode wasn’t nearly enough. In this follow-up discussion, we’re untangling all the parts we didn't get to discuss in the first half - where things get even more mind-bending, the emotional stakes rise, and the mysteries lurking behind the Locked Tomb start to come into sharper (and stranger) focus.We’ll talk about the reveals that had us flipping back through chapters, the shifting identities, and what it all might mean for Harrow, Gideon, and the rest of the Emperor’s chosen. Expect a mix of wild theories, quiet heartbreak, and plenty of awe at how Muir manages to keep us both lost and totally hooked.If you’ve finished Harrow the Ninth and need a space to process everything—or you’re just here to scream about THAT ending—you’re in the right place.Support the showRecommend us a Book!If there’s a book you want to recommend to us to read, just send us a message/email and we’ll pop it on our long list (but please read our review policy on our website first for the books we accept).Social MediaWebsite: https://teachingmycattoread.wordpress.com/Email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/teachmycat2read/Tumblr: https://teachingmycattoread.tumblr.comYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFXi9LNQv8SBQt8ilgTZXtQListener Surveyhttps://forms.gle/TBZUBH4SK8dez8RP9

We’re back in the world of necromancers and space palaces with *Harrow the Ninth* by Tamsyn Muir—and things are even weirder (and more brilliant) than before. If you caught our episode on *Gideon the Ninth*, you know we’re already obsessed with this series. Now, we’re diving headfirst into Harrow’s fractured mind, impossible timelines, and a story that refuses to play by the rules.  In the next two episodes, we unpack the chaos, the heartbreak, and the genius of Muir’s writing. We’ll talk about what makes Harrow such a complex and fascinating character, how this book messes with memory and reality, and why—despite the confusion—it all somehow works.  So if you’ve read *Harrow the Ninth* and need someone to yell about it with, or you’re just curious what all the buzz is about, this one’s for you. Just be warned: nothing in the Locked Tomb series is ever straightforward—but that’s part of the fun.Support the showRecommend us a Book!If there’s a book you want to recommend to us to read, just send us a message/email and we’ll pop it on our long list (but please read our review policy on our website first for the books we accept).Social MediaWebsite: https://teachingmycattoread.wordpress.com/Email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/teachmycat2read/Tumblr: https://teachingmycattoread.tumblr.comYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFXi9LNQv8SBQt8ilgTZXtQListener Surveyhttps://forms.gle/TBZUBH4SK8dez8RP9

Before we read and discuss the second book in “The Locked Tomb” series, we thought we would revisit the first book, “Gideon the Ninth”, and ask questions we hadn’t asked before. Note, this episode features spoilers for the book. The Back of the Book:“The Emperor needs necromancers.The Ninth Necromancer needs a swordswoman.Gideon has a sword, some dirty magazines, and no more time for undead nonsense.Brought up by unfriendly, ossifying nuns, ancient retainers, and countless skeletons, Gideon is ready to abandon a life of servitude and an afterlife as a reanimated corpse. She packs up her sword, her shoes, and her dirty magazines, and prepares to launch her daring escape. But her childhood nemesis won’t set her free without a service.Harrowhark Nonagesimus, Reverend Daughter of the Ninth House and bone witch extraordinaire, has been summoned into action. The Emperor has invited the heirs to each of his loyal Houses to a deadly trial of wits and skill. If Harrowhark succeeds she will be become an immortal, all-powerful servant of the Resurrection, but no necromancer can ascend without their cavalier. Without Gideon’s sword, Harrow will fail, and the Ninth House will die.Of course, some things are better left dead.”Support the showRecommend us a Book!If there’s a book you want to recommend to us to read, just send us a message/email and we’ll pop it on our long list (but please read our review policy on our website first for the books we accept).Social MediaWebsite: https://teachingmycattoread.wordpress.com/Email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/teachmycat2read/Tumblr: https://teachingmycattoread.tumblr.comYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFXi9LNQv8SBQt8ilgTZXtQListener Surveyhttps://forms.gle/TBZUBH4SK8dez8RP9

In this episode, we’re digging into *The Red-Headed League*, one of the most clever and entertaining short stories from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes collection. Join us as we follow Holmes and Watson through a bizarre case involving a mysterious job posting, a suspicious employer, and a scheme that’s far more serious than it first appears.  We’ll talk about the charm of Holmes’s deductive genius, the humor woven into the story, and why this particular case has remained a fan favorite for generations. It’s a quick read, but packed with twists, quirky characters, and that classic Holmes flair.  Whether you’re new to Sherlock Holmes or a lifelong fan, this episode is a fun dive into one of his most memorable mysteries.Content WarningsNASupport the showRecommend us a Book!If there’s a book you want to recommend to us to read, just send us a message/email and we’ll pop it on our long list (but please read our review policy on our website first for the books we accept).Social MediaWebsite: https://teachingmycattoread.wordpress.com/Email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/teachmycat2read/Tumblr: https://teachingmycattoread.tumblr.comYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFXi9LNQv8SBQt8ilgTZXtQListener Surveyhttps://forms.gle/TBZUBH4SK8dez8RP9

In this episode, we’re talking all things The Hunger Games—the book that took the world by storm and redefined YA dystopian fiction. We’ll dive into what makes this story so gripping, from the intense survival stakes to the sharp social commentary woven into Panem’s brutal world.We’ll break down Katniss Everdeen as a protagonist, the tension of the Games, and the deeper themes of power, control, and rebellion that still feel just as relevant today. Plus, we’ll share our favorite moments, biggest shocks, and how this book set the stage for a whole new era of storytelling.Whether you’ve read it a dozen times or are picking it up for the first time, join us for a fun, thoughtful conversation about why The Hunger Games still hits just as hard as it did when it first came out.Content WarningsChild deathSupport the showRecommend us a Book!If there’s a book you want to recommend to us to read, just send us a message/email and we’ll pop it on our long list (but please read our review policy on our website first for the books we accept).Social MediaWebsite: https://teachingmycattoread.wordpress.com/Email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/teachmycat2read/Tumblr: https://teachingmycattoread.tumblr.comYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFXi9LNQv8SBQt8ilgTZXtQListener Surveyhttps://forms.gle/TBZUBH4SK8dez8RP9

Join us for an in-depth conversation as we explore Charlotte Brontë’s classic, Jane Eyre. In this episode, we chat about the unforgettable journey of Jane—from her early struggles as an orphan to her quest for independence and love. We dive into the many layers of social commentary, Gothic atmosphere, and the fierce resilience that makes this novel a timeless favorite.We’ll share our insights on the themes of class, gender, and personal freedom, and explore how Brontë’s storytelling continues to resonate with readers today. Whether you’re revisiting the novel or discovering it for the first time, our discussion offers a fresh take on one of literature’s most enduring works.Tune in for a friendly and thoughtful look at Jane Eyre and join us as we celebrate its lasting impact on classic literature.Content WarningsDiscussion of mental health treatment in 1800 EnglandSupport the showRecommend us a Book!If there’s a book you want to recommend to us to read, just send us a message/email and we’ll pop it on our long list (but please read our review policy on our website first for the books we accept).Social MediaWebsite: https://teachingmycattoread.wordpress.com/Email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/teachmycat2read/Tumblr: https://teachingmycattoread.tumblr.comYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFXi9LNQv8SBQt8ilgTZXtQListener Surveyhttps://forms.gle/TBZUBH4SK8dez8RP9

In this Mini episode, we’re back to the world of Shakespeare with “Much Ado About Nothing”, and ask questions we hadn’t asked before. Note, this episode features spoilers for the book. The Back of the Book: “The primary plot of Much Ado About Nothing turns on the courtship and scandal involving young Hero and her suitor, Claudio, but the witty war of words between Claudio's friend Benedick and Hero's cousin Beatrice often takes center stage. Set in Messina, the play begins as Don Pedro's army returns after a victory.”Content WarningsNASupport the showRecommend us a Book!If there’s a book you want to recommend to us to read, just send us a message/email and we’ll pop it on our long list (but please read our review policy on our website first for the books we accept).Social MediaWebsite: https://teachingmycattoread.wordpress.com/Email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/teachmycat2read/Tumblr: https://teachingmycattoread.tumblr.comYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFXi9LNQv8SBQt8ilgTZXtQListener Surveyhttps://forms.gle/TBZUBH4SK8dez8RP9

Join us for a chat as we dive into Naomi Novik’s Throne of Jade, the second installment in the Temeraire (His Majesty’s Dragon) series. In this episode, we discuss about the epic blend of historical intrigue, vibrant dragon lore, and complex characters that bring this story to life.We’ll share our thoughts on the rich worldbuilding and the unforgettable bond between captain and dragon, explore the challenges of navigating ancient political landscapes, and highlight our favorite moments from the book, as well as our fun questions such as “Which character best embodies the characteristics: Gaslight/Gatekeep/Girlboss”. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of historical fantasy or just starting your journey into the Temeraire universe, this discussion promises fresh insights, hearty laughs, and plenty of thoughtful commentary.As always, we will have a think what our literacy loving cat would think of this book. (We think she’d give the first book in the series a 10/10!)Tune in for a friendly and insightful look at one of the most imaginative fantasy adventures out there, and join the conversation about what makes Throne of Jade a standout in the genre.Support the showRecommend us a Book!If there’s a book you want to recommend to us to read, just send us a message/email and we’ll pop it on our long list (but please read our review policy on our website first for the books we accept).Social MediaWebsite: https://teachingmycattoread.wordpress.com/Email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/teachmycat2read/Tumblr: https://teachingmycattoread.tumblr.comYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFXi9LNQv8SBQt8ilgTZXtQListener Surveyhttps://forms.gle/TBZUBH4SK8dez8RP9

In our final Austen discussion, we turn our attention to Mansfield Park. Join us for a thoughtful conversation about Jane Austen’s classic as we explore its characters, intricate plot, and enduring social commentary. Throughout the episode, we examine Austen’s narrative and have a think if our pet cat would approve of this novel. If you appreciate “in-depth” (with Wikipedia) literary discussions with a friendly tone, this episode is for you.Content WarningsNASupport the showRecommend us a Book!If there’s a book you want to recommend to us to read, just send us a message/email and we’ll pop it on our long list (but please read our review policy on our website first for the books we accept).Social MediaWebsite: https://teachingmycattoread.wordpress.com/Email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/teachmycat2read/Tumblr: https://teachingmycattoread.tumblr.comYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFXi9LNQv8SBQt8ilgTZXtQListener Surveyhttps://forms.gle/TBZUBH4SK8dez8RP9

In this episode of Teaching My Cat to Read, we’re diving into the heartwarming and deeply thought provoking sci-fi novel A Closed and Common Orbit by Becky Chambers.We have a chat about the book’s big themes: identity, belonging, the meaning of family, and what it means to build a life—whether you’re human, an AI, or something in between. With its dual storyline, we’ll follow Lovelace, an AI struggling to adapt to her new humanoid body, and Pepper, a mechanic with a moving backstory. Both tales intertwine to create a story bursting with hope, heart, and a touch of sci-fi magic.If you’re a fan of books that make you think, laugh, and maybe shed a tear, this is one episode you won’t want to miss. Perfect for fans of thoughtful speculative fiction and anyone looking to add more Becky Chambers brilliance to their shelves. Tune in now for a cosy chat about this award-nominated masterpiece!SpoilersThere are spoilers for the first book in the Wayfarers series, Long Way To A Small Angry Planet from very early in the episode - if you haven’t read it yet, here’s your sign from the universe!Content WarningsNASupport the showRecommend us a Book!If there’s a book you want to recommend to us to read, just send us a message/email and we’ll pop it on our long list (but please read our review policy on our website first for the books we accept).Social MediaWebsite: https://teachingmycattoread.wordpress.com/Email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/teachmycat2read/Tumblr: https://teachingmycattoread.tumblr.comYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFXi9LNQv8SBQt8ilgTZXtQListener Surveyhttps://forms.gle/TBZUBH4SK8dez8RP9