#Essays

A Banned Book Club Reading Guide for NEW KID by Jerry Craft

Banned books are some of the best to discuss in book clubs. This reading guide to frequently banned book New Kid will help you get started!

Behind the Curtain: Writing Mysteries from Different Points of View

A behind the scenes look at how mystery/thriller writers use different points of view to tell their stories — without giving away too much.

The Storied History of Reader’s Digest

Reader's Digest has been a cultural staple for over a century. Take a look inside to learn about its history.

Do Self-Help Books Work? Do They Actually Help?

With the New Year, our focus shifts to self improvement. But do self help books work? We dig into the research and the best types to read.

Dark Academia vs. Chaotic Academia: What’s the Difference?

Newer dark academia books point out elitism in academia; chaotic academia not only rejects it entirely, but seeks to undermine it at every turn.

Why Demonic Prep Boys Keep Appearing in the Dark Academia Canon

You know the type: old-money east coast aesthetic and a demonic or dark magical presence. Let's talk about dark academia's demonic prep boys.

Why Dark Academia is Perennially Popular

What makes dark academia popular and why does it remain popular? A look at its elements and the feelings it evokes.

How to Survive a Dark Academia Novel

Brush up on those dead languages and grab your first aid kit: you're in a dark academia novel and you *will* survive.

Why You Should Start Book Journaling Right Now (& Prompts to Help You Start)

Creating a book journal also allows you to create a visual space of your book experience. And one writer details why.

Teaching Banned Books: MELISSA by Alex Gino

Melissa is one of the most banned and challenged books in recent years. Here's how (and why) you should teach it.