Show #250 on June 14, 2020…In which Mr. Bear reads from Roy G. Guzmán’s incandescent book “Catrachos.” These searing poems—on bodies and borders, identity and immigration, queerness and love, language and loss—will light your mouths and ears on fire.

Show #232 on January 19, 2020…In which Mr. Bear reads selections by Dallas Lore Sharp on the “large, free, strong, fierce, wild soul of Winter.” Birds’ nests, tracks in the snow, tree skeletons, the microscopic world of snowflakes, life beneath the ice, blustery north winds, the hush of soft white falling, and more—here is a poetic mini-guide to exploring the season.

Show #215 on August 4, 2019…In which Mr. Bear reads from The Norwegian Fairy Book. Listen to tales of princesses, evil stepmothers, magic forests, trolls, runaway pancakes, clever pigs, giant goose eggs, and more!

Show #214 on July 28, 2019…In which Mr. Bear reads powerful, searing work by Megan Pillow Davis that grapples with issues of motherhood, infertility, sexism, and survival—in a man’s world, in an abusive relationship, in an elevator, in an apocalypse.

Show #200 on March 24, 2019…In which Mr. Bear celebrates the 200th episode of the Violet Hour Saloon (and his own birthday) by reading some of Beatrix Potter's delightful tales. Come be enchanted by bunnies and ducks and squirrels and mice and spring and mischief and the magic of childhood. Children of all ages welcome. Imaginary tea and cake will be served.

Show #188 on November 18, 2018…In which Mr. Bear reads stories that will shatter your heart from Kate Gehan's "The Girl & The Fox Pirate." Map thieves, hummingbirds, dissected sharks, suburban dads, and more tenderly and brutally illustrate the grief, loss, and love we all endure.

Show #187 on November 11, 2018…In which Mr. Bear reads the sparkling prose of Damhnait Monaghan — regrets, reservations, ruses, and reminiscences shine through her words to pierce your heart.