This week, we’re diving into Vladimir by Julia May Jonas and its 2026 Netflix adaptation. In this episode, we talk about the book’s dark humor, unsettling tone, unreliable narration, and the obsession at the center of the story, along with how those elements translated to the screen. We break down our thoughts on the narrator, the character dynamics, the social commentary, and the adaptation choices that worked for us—and the ones that didn’t. From uncomfortable tension to messy characters and very different reactions to the book and series, Vladimir gave us a lot to discuss.

Hosted by Keri with co-hosts Crystal and Lindsey.

Books & Adaptations Mentioned:

• Vladimir by Julia May Jonas
• Vladimir (2026 Netflix Series)

Listen to Vladimir with Our Affiliate Link!

Question of the Episode:

• What is a character that is unliked by many but you actually love?

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Thanks for listening to Based on a Book—see you in the next chapter!

Chapters:

00:00) Introductions

(01:31) Book Ratings

(05:46) Adaptation Breakdown (SPOILERS)

(58:17) Final Verdicts

(1:09:12) Question of the Episode