The Bookmark

When was the last time you picked up a hobby just for the pure joy of it, no side hustle required? In this episode, Rachel and Laura dive into the fascinating world of adult hobbies. We break down why carving out time for creative play and unstructured relaxation is vital for adult well-being, share practical tips for discovering what sparks your interest, and chat about the upcoming projects and crafts we’re eager to tackle next.

Plus, stick around for a very special guest who stops by to put Laura's knowledge of hobby trivia to the test. Hint: This special guest is married to one of your hosts!

This month, we're talking about the books we're reading and what's going on at the library (there is SO MUCH for all ages), along with our recs for this fall season. Whether your vibes are cozy or gently spooky, Rachel and Laura have a book for you to read in October! THEN, Rachel tests Laura to find out what kind of mystery novel character she is.

You won't want to miss it!

In this episode, we’re taking a deep dive into our very own backyard. Join Laura and Rachel as they chat about all the things they love about Wabash, capturing the unique vibes, quiet corners, and bustling spots of our favorite local hangouts. Then, stay tuned as they match those hometown loves with curated book recommendations guaranteed to bring those exact same feelings to your reading list.

Laura and Rachel debrief this year's summer reading program and look forward to new titles coming this fall!

Laura and Rachel are talking about some great American novels you might have missed and how modern literature examines the qualities that make America who she is.

Then Laura tries her hand at "Who Said It? Founding Fathers or BookTok Boyfriends" in this month's game!

Laura and Rachel highlight the upcoming Summer Reading program, "Unearth a Story."

In this episode, Laura and Rachel are joined by young readers who are eager to tell you what books they're actually reading and which ones you shouldn't miss out on!

Then, the tables turn as Rachel puts Laura in the hot seat with another quiz. Can Laura identify the modern equivalents to her favorite childhood classics? Tune in to see how the books we grew up with stack up against the best-sellers of today.

This month, Rachel and Laura explore what makes a book perfect for book club—stories that invite debate, challenge perspectives, and stick with you long after the final page.

* Featured Titles

Yellowface by R. F. Kuang

The Seven and a Half Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle by Stuart Turton

Normal People by Sally Rooney

Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver

Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin

Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

An American Marriage by Tayari Jones

A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini

The Lion Women of Tehran by Marjan Kamali

Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner

Caste by Isabel Wilkerson

Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson

The Typewriter and the Guillotine by Mark Braude

Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel

Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy

The Villa by Rachel Hawkins

Lost Lambs by Madeline Cash

Whidby by T. Kira Madden

The Creative Act by Rick Rubin

*Recorded Live (Sort Of!)

This episode was recorded in front of the Round Table of Wabash, bringing a little extra energy—and a lot of literary legacy—to the conversation.

*Game Time: Would You Rather?

Rachel wraps things up by putting Laura through a rapid-fire round of bookish “Would You Rather?” questions. The answers? Occasionally unhinged. Always entertaining.

*Join the Conversation

What book has sparked the best discussion in your group? Let us know—we’re always looking for more titles to add to the list.

This episode started with no plan… and turned into a deep dive on analog hobbies, uncovering your reader personality, red & green reading flags, what’s coming up at the library — and a very passionate stance on the one question you should absolutely never ask a stranger.

It’s chaotic good. Maybe you'll enjoy it!

Laura and Rachel share their hottest literary takes - do you agree with them? No? Let them know!