This special episode is a winning entry for NYT 8th Annual Student Podcast Contest.

In this episode of Inky Expressions, Annabelle explores the emotional complexity behind Theodore Roethke’s famous poem My Papa’s Waltz. At first glance, it might seem like a simple memory of a father dancing with his son—but look closer, and the imagery reveals a mix of love, fear, chaos, and tenderness. Tune in to hear how Roethke’s words capture the reality of family relationships and why this short poem continues to leave a lasting impact.

🎙️ Special Edition Alert! This episode of Inky Expressions is a special crossover to introduce Two Braincells—a brand-new podcast cohosted by Annabelle and her best friend Mia. Now streaming on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, Two Braincells dives into the real mental health challenges teens face today. In Episode 1, they sit down with Riya, a 10th grader who bravely shares her journey through depression and the powerful lessons she learned about friendship and self-love.

🔗 Listen to Two Braincells here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/two-brain-cells/id1808741934

"The Recognition of Shakuntala" by Kalidasa is a classic Sanskrit play that explores themes of love, fate, and divine intervention. The story centers on Shakuntala, a beautiful and innocent maiden who captures the heart of King Dushyanta. Their love blossoms, but a sage's curse causes Dushyanta to forget Shakuntala until a significant token reminds him of their bond. As Shakuntala embarks on a journey of separation and longing, the play delves into the complexities of human emotions and the influence of destiny. Ultimately, the lovers are reunited, underscoring the enduring power of love and the eventual triumph of truth and virtue.

Animal Farm by George Orwell is a satirical allegory that critiques totalitarian regimes and the corruption of revolutionary ideals. The story follows the animals of Manor Farm who, led by the pigs Snowball and Napoleon, overthrow their human farmer, Mr. Jones, to establish a society based on equality. However, power corrupts the pigs, especially Napoleon, who becomes a dictator. The pigs begin to resemble the humans they replaced, altering commandments to justify their actions. The farm's name reverts to Manor Farm, and the animals realize they are no better off, highlighting the betrayal of the revolution.

I am excited to introduce our new podcast, featuring Mia and myself, where we will focus on teenage mental health issues. We invite you to join us and tune in!

"The Boys in the Boat" by Daniel James Brown is an inspiring true story about the University of Washington's eight-oar crew team and their quest for gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Amidst the Great Depression, these nine working-class boys faced immense physical and emotional challenges, forming an unbreakable bond. Their journey captures their transformation from rugged individuals to a harmonious unit, using teamwork and resilience to overcome adversity. The narrative not only highlights their sporting triumph but also reflects the socio-economic backdrop of 1930s America and the rise of Nazi Germany, culminating in a poignant and exhilarating climax at the Olympic Games.

"When You Trap a Tiger" by Tae Keller explores Korean folklore through Lily, a young Korean-American girl. After moving in with her ill grandmother, Halmoni, Lily encounters a mystical tiger from Halmoni’s tales, offering a deal: a story for Halmoni's health. As Lily navigates family secrets and folklore, she confronts the tiger, deepening her connection with her family and her cultural identity. This magical realism story merges family drama with the power of storytelling, highlighting themes of heritage, bravery, and emotional complexity. It's a touching narrative that resonates with both young readers and adults.

Nine Perfect Strangers" by Liane Moriarty is a suspenseful and thought-provoking novel that explores the lives of nine individuals who come together at a boutique health-and-wellness resort called Tranquillum House, seeking transformation and healing. Over the course of ten days, the strangers, each with their own secrets and personal demons, are taken on an unexpected journey by the resort's enigmatic owner, Masha. As the retreat unfolds with unconventional and increasingly intense methods, the guests' lives are intertwined, leading to moments of insight, compassion, and unsettling revelations.

"The Giver" by Lois Lowry is a dystopian novel set in a seemingly utopian society where pain, suffering, and choice are eliminated. The protagonist, Jonas, is selected to become the Receiver of Memory, the person who stores all the past memories of the time before Sameness. As Jonas receives these memories from the previous Receiver, now called The Giver, he discovers the dark truths of his society's sacrifices for conformity and sameness. The novel explores themes of individuality, freedom, and the importance of memory and emotion in human life.

Louisa May Alcott's Little Women is a coming-of-age story for four women: Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy. As the novel unfolds against the backdrop of the Civil War in New England, it follows each of the young ladies' growth as they recognize and overcome their mistakes. At the end, they find out that happy endings may assume unanticipated forms.