A Well Read Life

I hope you're enjoying the early days of summer. Today, I'm sharing the delightful, heartwarming story of Hickory by Palmer Brown. It is a new-to-me book, but it has quickly become a well-loved classic in our home. 

Today, I'm tackling one of the most well-known and beloved fairy tales of all time in its original form, Beauty and the Beast. Written in the 18th century by Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve, much of the story will be familiar, but this version has many unexpected twists and turns. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised by it. 

Once again, I'm continuing down the fairy tale rabbit hole. Today, I'm sharing about Snow White. It is a new-to-me version retold by the irreplaceable Joan Aiken, with lovely illustrations by Belinda Downes. And I credit it with changing my view of the story.

I'm out of town traveling this week and next--so look for a new episode the first week of April. In the meantime, I hope you enjoy this beautiful weather and a good book!

Recently, I sat down and had a bookish conversation with Brittany Cuenin. Brittany is also a keen lover of children's literature and fairy tales, and when I found that out, I knew I had to have her on the show. I had so much fun talking with Brittany about all things fairy tales, and I hope you enjoy it as well.

Brittany's Blog: Tales of a Bookworm

It's been a while since I've featured a fairy tale on the podcast, but I've wanted to do another series on them for some time. Recently, I've enjoyed re-immersing myself in the world of fairy stories, and I hope you'll join me on this adventure. Today, I'm starting with Hans Christian Anderson's beautiful fairy tale, The Nightingale.

Books mentioned in this episode:

The Fairy Tales of Hans Christian Anderson (affiliate link)

Tending the Heart of Virtue

On Stories

On Fairy-stories

The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe have captured the hearts and imaginations of countless children (and adults). Most recently, Lewis's magical story has enthralled my daughter. Because of her love of the story, I re-read the beautiful classic and share it with you today.

Welcome back! It's been far too long since my last podcast. I'm so happy to be back with you in the new year. Today, I'm sharing a letter that my mom wrote years ago. A letter I've affectionately named Ode to a Used Book. Enjoy!

I'm starting the Advent season with a lovely book by Elizabeth Goudge, Sister of the Angels. It is a book that will delight and enchant you. And one which will cause you to contemplate this season of waiting more profoundly.

Sister of the Angels- Girls Gone by Publishers

I am back after an unintended multi-month break. (Thank you for your patience in my absence.) Today, I'm sharing the children's classic Heidi by Johanna Spyri. It's a dear book. If you haven't read it, I hope you will soon.