#Essays

How Princess Mary’s Gift Book Sparked a Belief in the Existence of Fairies

The 1920s saw a certain corner of the world suddenly believing in fairies. Here's how one book in particular helped spread belief.

How to Start Reading Again (When It’s Been a While)

So it's been a while since you read a book. No problem: books are patient. Here are some ways to get back into reading.

Playwright, Poet, Scholar, Spy: The Life of Kit Marlowe

If you know of any authors living a double life, your secret is safe with me.

What Is Media Literacy and How Can You Increase Your Own?

If you're interested in media literacy, read inside for a look into the state of media literacy in the USA and for tips to improve your own.

In Defense of the Miscommunication Trope in Romance

When the miscommunication romance trope is done really well, readers might not even clock it. Let’s have a deeper look.

The Importance of Knowing And Sticking to Your Own Bookish Limits

A TikTok challenge led many to pick up a book that they could not finish. But why? A look at the value of defining your reading limits.

The Worst First Lines in Literature: The Lyttle Lytton Contest

The annual Lyttle Lytton Contest celebrates the worst first lines in literature. Here are some of the so-bad-it's-good winners.

The Absolute Worst Advice I Found in Dating Books

While dating can be a real nightmare, unfortunately, it's a nightmare inside a lot of these dating books as well.

How to Open a Comic Book Store

Comic book store owners share their advice on how to open a comic book store — and how to keep it in business!

The Bestseller List is Broken

Despite their popularity, bestseller lists are painfully boring.