Fully-Booked: Literary Podcast

Netflix has officially brought Emily Henry’s People We Meet on Vacation to the screen, and Megan + Sherine are diving in while it’s fresh. The hosts unpack how the film handles the novel’s dual timelines, friends-to-lovers tension, and that “why didn’t they just TALK?” two-year fallout.

They get into what worked (hello, chemistry, pacing, and genuinely funny moments), what felt off at first (a more manic-pixie-leaning Poppy early on), and how the adaptation streamlined character motivation in ways that made the story hit cleaner in a 2-hour runtime.

Plus: the most important book-to-movi...

Book-to-screen adaptations are booming in 2026—so is a book better as a movie or a TV series?

Meaghan & Shirin break down film vs TV adaptations, streaming’s impact, and why fantasy is hardest to adapt.

Welcome back to Fully-Booked, our first episode of 2026! With major adaptations landing this year, we’re debating the pros and cons of book-to-film vs book-to-television in the streaming era.

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In this end-of-year Fully Booked wrap-up, Megan and Sherine say goodbye (respectfully… kind of) to 2025 and dig into what really mattered: the books that delivered.

We rank our Top 5 reads of 2025—from twisty thrillers and darkly funny satire, to high-stakes fantasy/romantasy, slashers, vampires, and one horror novel that genuinely jump-scared us while reading. Along the way, we talk about what a “good reading year” even means, why stress can wreck reading momentum, and why the whole “how many books did you read?” discourse misses the point.

Plus: honorable mentions, the books we wanted to finish (hell...

The Housemaid (2025) movie review + Frieda McFadden book-to-film breakdown (Paul Feig, Amanda Seyfried, Sydney Sweeney).

SPOILERS: We compare the twist and ending, as well as the changes made from the novel to the movie.

Megan and Shirin are back with a full deep dive on The Housemaid—the new adaptation of Frieda McFadden’s viral domestic thriller.

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It’s our 2025 Fully Booked recap—part “podcast Wrapped,” part honest creative debrief. We break down our top 5 most-listened episodes (and why the internet clearly loves a timely adaptation take), share our personal favorites (from book hangovers and games to big-topic conversations like banning books), and unpack the months that felt too rigid, too narrow, or just creatively exhausting.

We also talk about how the book-to-screen world keeps accelerating—trailers, releases, streaming drops, and adaptations arriving so fast that staying locked into strict monthly themes can mean missing the exact conversations everyone’s already having. So we’re making a ch...

Our 2025 reading wrap-up is here! We’re talking fantasy burnout, new mom thriller binges, ARCs we loved, and a late-year return to horror, cozy fantasy, and darkly funny mysteries.

If you’re hunting for fantasy, thriller, and horror book recommendations—plus real talk about reading through seasonal slumps and motherhood—this episode is for you.

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Why do some fantasy series absolutely explode while others quietly disappear from your TBR? In this episode of Fully-Booked, Megan and Shirin unpack the rise of romantasy, dark romance, and spicy dragon epics to figure out what really makes a fantasy series go viral.

Is there a magic formula behind today’s breakout fantasy hits? The hosts talk worldbuilding vs romance, character-driven sagas, the role of BookTok and RomantasyTok, and whether every new “high fantasy” release really needs explicit spice on every other page. They compare classic epic fantasy vibes (Tolkien, The Dark Tower, Shannara) with the curren...

Welcome back to Fully-Booked, and happy Wicked Week!

In this spoiler-packed episode, Meghan and Shereen sit down the day after seeing Wicked: Part Two to ask a big question: was this sequel actually good, or just really, really pretty?

Drawing on Meaghan’s experience with Gregory Maguire’s novel and the Broadway musical, and Shirin's fresh movie-focused perspective, they unpack how the film handles Elphaba’s story, why Glinda weirdly feels like the main character in Part Two, and how much the new original songs actually add to the runtime. They talk fan expectations, social media...

Hey there, fictional friends!

On this episode of Fully Booked, Meghan and Shirin take a break from “serious” adaptations and dive into a mixed bag of comfort reads, ranging from horror to romance.

💘 Main Chat: Forever My Girl – Book vs Movie
We unpack the Heidi McLaughlin novel and its 2018 film adaptation: runaway groom country-music star, furious florist ex, secret kid, small-town Louisiana vibes, and why the movie softens some of the book’s toxicity while dialling up the swoon.

🧠 Escapism, Doomscrolling & Mental Health
Why horror and small-town romances are hitting so hard right now...

Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein is finally on Netflix—here’s why this Creature-first, practical-effects gothic works (and where it stumbles).
We break down Oscar Isaac’s Victor, Jacob Elordi’s heartbreaking Creature, Mia Goth’s dual role, and the film’s lush, tactile world.

We caught an early festival screening and a limited theatrical run before release, so this episode digs into the performances, the production design (including those glorious built sets), and why this isn’t a shot-for-shot adaptation but a bold interpretation that honors Mary Shelley’s spirit. We also trace Frankenstein’s cultural afterlife a...

On Halloween Day, Meaghan and Shirin celebrate the end of October with a love letter to the Universal Monsters—and the filmmaking moves that made them immortal.

We trace the real beginnings of Universal horror (hint: Jekyll & Hyde was on screen long before Bela Lugosi’s Dracula), peek at the bootleg chaos of Nosferatu, and geek out over Lon Chaney’s groundbreaking makeup that hard-coded the “look” of classic monsters—Phantom’s skull-mask, Frankenstein’s square brow, caped Dracula, and the bandaged Invisible Man.

Beyond trivia, we dig into why these creatures endure: unchecked power (The Invis...

If you’ve ever wondered why It (2017/2019) still crawls under our skin, this episode is your sewer-level deep dive. We revisit Chapters 1 & 2 and talk about how Stephen King’s coming-of-age terror works on two timelines—childhood and adulthood—to explore memory, guilt, friendship, and the way a town learns to look away. We break down:

What makes folk horror so unsettling? This episode maps the weird woods: isolated settings, old customs that refuse to die, and the outsider who realizes too late they can’t leave. Shereen arrives a skeptic; Meaghan leads the tour—through forests, farmlands, and edge-of-the-map towns where tradition presses against modern life.

We unpack how setting becomes a character, why slow dread beats jump scares, and how folk horror pits the past against the present. We also explore how the subgenre is evolving—think eco-anxieties and even tech-resistant towns—and share a stack of must-reads and must-watches that capture...

YA horror isn’t just training-wheels terror — it’s where coming-of-age meets fear, identity, and community. In this episode, Megan and Shirin dig into why teen horror stays perpetually popular: it’s plot-forward, nostalgia-charged, and perfectly tuned to the search for self. We trace subgenres (slashers, hauntings, dark academia), talk inclusive casts and queer themes that live on the page without fanfare, and call out the steady stream of adaptations bringing YA scares to screens. Plus: nightstand reads, Montreal-set chills, and a quick tour of recent faves to start your TBR.

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Horror fans, assemble. In this episode, we dive into the last decade’s most effective page-to-screen chills and why adaptations are thriving right now. We talk TV’s “Flanaverse” and how The Haunting of Hill House set a new bar for character-first terror; the surprising heart (and heartbreak) in Doctor Sleep as King’s universe expands; how AMC’s Interview with the Vampire modernizes Rice without losing the bite; why The Invisible Man works as a tech-tinged, trauma-aware update; the pure slasher fun of Fear Street; the Poe-soaked spectacle of The Fall of the House of Usher; BBC’s Dracula and a...

We’re three weeks into Dark Academia month and pivoting from the lack of new adaptations to the ones we want. From Ninth House and The Atlas Six to The Maidens, Bunny (plus its sequel), These Violent Delights, and The Honeys, we map the smartest book-to-screen plays—plus some spicy reader confessions (DNFs, trophy shelves, and the dusty corner).

We dig into:

Dark academia reads gorgeously on the page—but stumbles on screen. In this episode, we unpack the big reasons: the aesthetic-over-story trap, elite settings that limit relatability and diversity, and the reality that streamers cancel fast and world-build slow. We use “Wednesday,” “The Order,” and our beloved Poe-soaked, gothic campus imagery to ask: is the genre “unfilmable”… or just misunderstood? We also float a fix—adult animation—plus how fandom pressure and multi-book epics make accuracy impossible without killing character depth.

We cover:

It’s September (aka back-to-school season), so we’re launching a month of dark-academia conversations. In this opener, we map the genre’s core—elite or boarding-school settings, gothic vibes, and a lean toward mystery, fantasy, and even horror—and dig into why secret societies and clandestine clubs keep showing up in these stories.

We compare “real” vs. fictional societies, talk initiations and rituals, and why the forbidden—anything faculty might frown upon—creates irresistible narrative tension.

On our nightstands: The Perfect Marriage by Geneva Rose (and the follow-up Perfect Divorce), With a Vengeance by Riley Sager (a ’50...

In this episode of Fully Booked: Literary Podcast, Meaghan and Shirin jump into Season 3 of The Summer I Turned Pretty — both the show and the original book trilogy by Jenny Han. They share brutally honest thoughts about how the story has progressed, especially how much they’ve soured on the central romance between Belly and Jeremiah.

The hosts discuss their evolving opinions since Season 1, when the story had a certain charm, to now, where it feels like a frustrating spiral of poor decisions and forced drama. Belly’s character development (or lack thereof), Jeremiah’s red flags, and Conr...

Here’s what we cover in this episode:

If you like romantic adaptations with a side of chaos, stick around — we’ve got more coming this month. Bad decisions were made. You’ll want to hear about them.

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Summer may be flying by, but we’re hitting pause to ask a big question: what even is romance anymore? In this episode, Meaghan and Shirin unpack the emotional rollercoaster that is Colleen Hoover’s catalog.

From domestic abuse to infidelity and infertility, her books are packed with heavy themes that leave us wondering: are we still reading romance, or just trauma fiction with a love story on the side?

We talk about the rise of Hoover’s popularity, what makes a book truly “romantic,” and why picking up her novels expecting a light, happy read might...

In this episode of the Fully-Booked: Literary podcast, Meaghan and Shirin close out July’s theme of book adaptations. They’ve spent the month chatting about what makes a successful adaptation, what flops, and where things fall in between. This episode is a genre-focused deep dive where they talk about how different categories of books fare when turned into TV or film.

They kick things off by acknowledging that life has been chaotic lately, so this one’s coming out a little late. Still, they’re here and ready to go. Meaghan and Shirin say upfront that it's alm...

This episode of the Fully-Booked: Literary Podcast kicked off, as always, with what’s on our nightstands. Shirin had her hands on Phantasma, a book that had been hyped all over, but halfway through, she was feeling let down. The Southern Gothic mood is solid, but the story lacks that punch. The tasks and trials within it are underwhelming, and she doesn’t really care much about the characters. It’s supposed to have demons, ghouls, and Hunger Games-style drama, but right now, it’s all feeling kind of flat.

Meaghan tried to make her feel better and poin...

We’re dropped right into Adaptations Month, and Meaghan and Shirin are fired up about one of the most talked-about YA adaptations in recent memory: We Were Liars by E. Lockhart, now an eight-episode Amazon Prime series.

Right away, we’re treated to some healthy debate. Shirin adores the book; she champions the writing, the twist, and the mood. Meaghan? Not so much. She found the prose pretentious and didn’t enjoy the tone at all. This dynamic sets the stage for a lively and honest conversation that’s far from sugar-coated.

The book, first publishe...

We started off this Fully-Booked: Literary Podcast episode by greeting everyone with excitement for July and reflecting on how summer used to be a time packed with massive blockbuster releases. We remember those days fondly, when movie theaters were our second homes during the hot months, and every Tuesday felt like a holiday because we could catch the latest release with cheap tickets.

There was a nostalgic vibe as we recalled our favorite old, run-down theaters and how those experiences shaped our love of cinema. We laughed about how everyone’s collective obsession with Jonathan Bailey and hi...

We kick off with the hosts’ cheerful greeting and their confession that they recorded the Fully-Booked: Literary Podcast ahead of schedule, joking that it is “the last week of June… but not really.” They remind us that June on Fully-Booked has been all about banned books, and they want to finish with something big.

While scanning international censorship lists, Meaghan notices that The Da Vinci Code has been pulled from shelves in Lebanon, India, Pakistan, Egypt, Jordan, and the Philippines. The reason is simple enough: some Christian leaders find the novel’s ideas offensive.

Shirin admits she...

We started the Fully-Booked Podcast episode with some personal updates and our latest reads. Meaghan had just finished The Housemaid by Freida McFadden, a fast-paced thriller that she found both fun and perplexing in terms of what to expect from its sequels. She mentioned how Shirin tends to dive into one author's entire catalogue when she discovers a book she enjoys, and this time it was her turn to follow suit.

Shirin, on the other hand, had just wrapped up Sunrise on the Reaping, the most recent Hunger Games novel. Neither of us is a die-hard fan...

We kicked off this Fully-Booked Podcast episode by sticking with our June theme: banned books. And this time, we focused on one that left us scratching our heads: Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen.

The 2006 novel was recently banned in Utah’s public schools under House Bill 29, which allows parents to challenge books they consider “sensitive material.” If three school districts or charter schools agree, the book can be pulled statewide. That’s how Water for Elephants landed on the list, although, to be honest, we still don’t quite get why.

We couldn't find a solid an...

We kicked off this Fully-Booked podcast episode like we often do, talking about the weather. June arrived, and with it came all the seasonal chaos we Canadians know too well. One moment we’re soaking in rays, and the next, we’re back to complaining about rain or trying to survive sudden temperature spikes. It’s the kind of weather where someone might wear a parka with flip-flops and somehow not look out of place.

We laughed about how 10 degrees feels completely different in spring versus fall. In spring, we’re peeling off layers like it’s beach seas...

We started off with a quick update: Meaghan and Arthur are trying out a new recording setup for the Fully-Booked Podcast and, like any of us facing tech upgrades, are crossing their fingers that it behaves itself. From there, they leaned into their end-of-May tradition of a more casual, "free-for-all" episode format. It’s their chance to have fun, try different things, and bring up topics they might not usually squeeze into a themed episode.

IT Welcome to Derry and Stephen King's Expanding Universe

Then came the meat of the conversation: the new HBO series IT...

We kicked off this bonus episode with a little chaos and a lot of sass. Right from the start, you can feel the energy between us, part friendship, part roast-fest. But today’s episode wasn’t just for fun. We jumped on early in the week to get something off our chests: Netflix’s new adaptation of R.L. Stine’s Fear Street: Prom Queen. We needed to talk about it, not because it was good, but because we had to process what we watched and, hopefully, move on.

The three of us had recently rewatched the original...

We sat down this week to do something a little different. It’s just Meaghan and Arthur holding down the fort, and rather than diving into a brand-new book adaptation or a buzzy literary release, we decided to revisit a franchise that’s already earned a place in our hearts: Netflix’s Fear Street trilogy.

With a brand-new entry, Fear Street: Prom Queen, hitting Netflix the same day this episode airs, it felt like the right time to go back, rewatch, and reflect on what made the trilogy stand out, and what we’re hoping for in the futu...

In this episode of the Fully-Booked literary podcast, we’re back in the room with Meaghan, Shirin, and Arthur, though Arthur gets plenty of playful shade right out of the gate. The energy is chaotic in the best way, and we all seem to embrace it.

This time around, we’re not doing a structured game or typical author discussion. Instead, we’ve decided to have a casual roundtable where we toss out book recommendations based on popular titles.

Think of it as a “if you liked this, try this” style chat, the kind of stuff you...

We began this episode of the Fully-Booked: Literary podcast with just the two of us, Meaghan and Shirin. Arthur wasn’t with us this time, and it felt like a return to our original format.

We joked about possibly rotating the lineup again soon, but encouraged listeners to speak up if they preferred the two-host dynamic. We even said they could let Arthur know in the loudest way possible. The tone was lighthearted as we poked fun at our evolving chemistry, especially how Shirin and Arthur now seem to share a kind of sibling energy. That dynamic, we...

In this episode of the Fully-Booked podcast, we welcomed Shirin back to the podcast after a six-month hiatus! The return wasn't pre-planned but fell into place organically, creating a light-hearted surprise for everyone. Shirin has been away dealing with personal life changes, including taking care of a new baby and adjusting to a new rhythm at home.

The hosts, Meaghan, Arthur, and Shirin, agreed that May would be a transitional month, easing out of the structured April theme of "fools and tricksters" into a looser, more fun assortment of topics. With Shirin returning and the team unsure...

We kicked off the episode with a bit of weather banter, lamenting the lingering cold despite the arrival of spring. This lighthearted opening tied directly into our episode’s focus on "tricks" as we wrapped up our literary podcast April’s “Tricksters” theme. We reflected on the heavier topics from previous episodes, like the intense themes in Shutter Island, and decided to end the month on a lighter, playful note with a game.

As always, we reminded listeners about the related content available on our website, Fully-Booked.ca, including recent articles like the intriguing investigation into how a book w...

We begin the podcast with Meaghan and Arthur playfully addressing the confusion brought on by a long weekend and busy schedules, setting a casual and conversational tone for the episode. They remind listeners that this is the last week of their series focused on unreliable narrators, tricksters, and deceptive perspectives in storytelling.

They recap their previous episode, where they explored the various kinds of unreliable narrators, ranging from innocent children to substance abusers, pathological liars, and mentally unstable individuals. The hosts stress that the term “unreliable narrator” is often used as a catch-all, but it actually encompasses a br...

It’s week two of April’s theme on Fully-Booked, and in today's literary podcast episode, we’re diving deep into the world of fools, tricksters, and - our main focus today - unreliable narrators.

Last week, we examined the mythological and folkloric origins of fools and tricksters - how these figures evolved and what they symbolized. This week, we’re exploring how those archetypes translate into literary devices, especially when it comes to unreliable narrators. It’s a natural progression: What happens when the trickster gets to tell the story?

What Makes a Narrator Unreliable...

Duration: 00:28:56

We began this literary podcast episode by welcoming listeners into April with a playful nod to April Fool's Day. This theme paved the way for our new monthly focus: tricksters and fools in literature. Meaghan and Arthur introduced this concept by discussing how these characters appear in stories across the globe and throughout history.

We explored how tricksters often challenge societal norms through cleverness, mischief, and rule-bending behavior. From mythical gods to fairytale creatures, these figures have captivated readers and listeners for centuries.

The hosts announced that April's episodes would focus on examining tricksters through...

In this final installment of our March podcast villain series, we decided to end with a character who has been interpreted in more ways than almost any other: Count Dracula.

Meaghan and Arthur dove into this rich, multifaceted figure who has stood the test of time, appearing in literature, theater, film, television, comics, and even ballet. While Dracula is far from the first fictional villain, his enduring presence makes him one of the most iconic.

Across generations, the character has been portrayed in so many forms that it almost becomes impossible to count. So we...

We opened the episode with a continuation of our Villains Month coverage, diving into the more nuanced territory of morally gray characters. In this third week, we shifted from examining outright villains to exploring the blurred lines between villains and antiheroes.

While often confusing, this distinction can help deepen our understanding of literary characters and narrative structure. We discussed how selfish motives and chaotic actions typically define villains, whereas antiheroes may lack traditional heroic qualities but are still driven by noble or relatable goals.

What Is On Our Nightstands

Before diving into the...

In this episode of the Fully-Booked Podcast, hosts Meaghan and Arthur continue their discussion of villains in literature, focusing on cases where a villain in an adaptation surpasses their literary counterpart. Building on last week's episode about what makes a great villain, they explore how actors, screenwriting, direction, and visual design can elevate a character beyond what was on the page.

Elements That Enhance Villains in Adaptations

The hosts identify several key factors that contribute to a villain’s success in an adaptation;

In this episode of the Fully-Booked podcast, hosts Meaghan and Arthur welcome listeners to the first episode for March, humorously recalling Arthur's previous oversight of selecting a monthly theme. They introduce March’s new focus: villains in literature.

This represents a fresh topic compared to their usual monthly themes, particularly diverging from their frequent discussions on science fiction. The hosts also humorously recount distractions from their cats during recording sessions, illustrating how their pets' mischief often interrupts their recording process.

Current Reads

The hosts share their current reading selections. Arthur is reading Transmutation Tr...

We are back with another episode of the Fully Booked podcast, and as February drags on, we find ourselves waiting for the winter snow to melt, just like everyone else in Eastern Canada. To shake off the seasonal gloom, we decided to treat ourselves to a movie!

Luckily, our timing was perfect because February 21, 2025, marked the release of The Monkey, a film adaptation of a Stephen King short story, directed by Osgood Perkins. Given our love for horror, and with Perkins’ track record of unsettling films, we were eager to dive into this adaptation. So, we grabbed ou...

We begin this discussion by welcoming our listeners to another episode of the Fully-Booked Podcast, where we delve into the spine-chilling realm of winter horror. As we reach the midpoint of February, the cold remains a dominant presence, and with that in mind, we decide to explore horror stories set in winter landscapes.

Winter horror is particularly effective in creating a sense of isolation and claustrophobia, trapping characters in dire circumstances, and heightening tension and anxiety. The conversation leads us to consider the best time to read winter horror - whether it should be reserved for the...

We open the episode with Meaghan and Arthur, the cheerful hosts of the Fully-Booked podcast, as they settle in for a lighthearted and unique take on their podcast theme. Meaghan introduces herself as she recovers from a cold, and both hosts acknowledge Valentine’s Day as the backdrop for this episode's release.

Instead of focusing on traditional romance books, they’ve deliberately decided to break away from Valentine's tropes, playfully considering alternatives like cheesy romantic comedies or thriller-themed content, but ultimately, they settle on something entirely different - a book-guessing game.

Both Meaghan and Arthur have...

We begin this episode of the Fully-Booked podcast with Meaghan and Arthur, the enthusiastic hosts, setting a casual and relatable tone by discussing the challenges of February in Canada. They joke about the cold, the snow, and the dreariness of the month while expressing their gratitude for remote car starters.

To brighten the month, the hosts decide to explore fresh topics for the podcast, focusing on adult apocalyptic and post-apocalyptic literature. They promise a mix of lighthearted moments and in-depth discussions, showcasing their thoughtful approach to balancing heavy themes with entertainment.

Current Reads and Book...

Duration: 00:38:26

In this episode of the Fully-Booked podcast, the hosts, Meaghan and Arthur, wrap up their month-long discussion on science fiction by delving into two early 2000s science fiction films: I, Robot (2004) and Minority Report (2002). While both films explore futuristic technology and its implications on society, they do so in fundamentally different ways. The hosts analyze their themes, effectiveness as adaptations, and how they compare in their depictions of technological advancement and moral dilemmas.

The conversation also touches on their experiences with researching and watching these films, highlighting how science fiction often presents advancements with built-in flaws. This...

We delve into the world of science fiction in the latest episode of the Fully-Booked podcast. The hosts, Meaghan and Arthur, express their excitement and curiosity about the genre, particularly focusing on its evolution and the rising popularity of "hard science fiction."

They begin by discussing the intriguing concept of how science fiction heroes utilize real science to address relatable challenges, making the genre both accessible and compelling. This exploration sets the tone for an episode filled with diverse discussions on books, subgenres, and broader thematic elements within science fiction.

What’s on th...

In the second week of Sci-Fi Month, the Fully-Booked hosts Meaghan and Arthur navigate a "fish out of water" experience for Meghan, who is less familiar with science fiction. Originally planned to discuss The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, they pivot to a newer release, The Wild Robot. This decision provides a fresh opportunity to explore a beloved modern story that blends sci-fi with emotional depth, making it accessible for both newcomers and seasoned fans of the genre.

Meaghan confesses her initial hesitation about sci-fi but finds herself captivated by The Wild Robot. Arthur, th...

In this episode of the Fully-Booked podcast, the hosts, Meaghan and Arthur, delve into a new chapter of the podcast. The audience is informed about Shirin's temporary departure due to her pregnancy as Shirin steps away to focus on her growing family, Arthur, co-producer of the Fully-Booked podcast, steps in to co-host alongside Meaghan. This change, while temporary, marks a significant shift in the dynamic of the show.

Arthur’s background in coding and his technical contributions to the website bring a fresh perspective to the podcast. The hosts humorously discuss his 60% familiarity wi...

We begin the podcast with a reflective tone as Meaghan and Shereen close out the year and prepare for significant personal changes. Shereen announces that this is her last episode for the foreseeable future due to the imminent arrival of her first child. This milestone marks a shift for the show, with plans for a guest host to join Meaghan in upcoming episodes.

The hosts express excitement and apprehension about the temporary format change, seeing it as an opportunity to explore new genres and perspectives, particularly with a guest host with a strong interest in...

In this Fully-Booked podcast episode, hosted by Meghan and Shereen, delves into Vladimir Nabokov's controversial 1955 novel Lolita. This discussion is part of their "selfish December" series, where they explore topics of personal and cultural interest. Meghan’s recurring fascination with Lolita drives this deep dive into the novel’s complex themes, mischaracterizations, and its impact on modern media.

Lolita portrays disturbing subject matter through the fictional memoir of Humbert Humbert, an unreliable narrator obsessed with a very young Dolores Hayes. Nabokov’s narrative critiques Humbert’s delusions and reprehensible behavior, emphasizing Dolores’ victimization. Despite its controvers...

This December episode of the Fully-Booked podcast is one of those free-for-all episodes where we cover anything we like, without a specific theme. This week's discussion is about upcoming 2025 book adaptations we are excited for.

This episode was notably pre-recorded, as Sireen was scheduled to be on maternity leave by the time of its airing.

Current Reading Discussion: Contemporary Literature Analysis

The hosts begin by sharing their recent reading experiences. Sireen discusses Ali Hazelwood's "2 Can Play," offering a critical analysis of its workplace romance narrative structure and problematic relationship dynamics.

In this episode of the Fully-Booked podcast, we dive into the magical world of Wicked, the long-awaited film adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical. Releasing in two parts, with the first installment hitting theaters in November 2024, Wicked promises to enchant audiences with its dazzling visuals, incredible performances, and timeless themes of friendship, acceptance, and personal growth.

The Enduring Legacy of Oz

Before delving into the specifics of the film, it's important to recognize the enduring cultural impact of the Oz universe. L. Frank Baum's original novel, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, was published in 1900, sparking...

In this episode of the Fully-Booked podcast, we wrap up our month-long exploration of alternate history fiction by delving into the 2018 AMC series The Terror. Based on the 2007 novel by Dan Simmons, the show's first season reimagines the ill-fated Franklin Expedition, which set out to navigate the Northwest Passage in 1845. By blending historical fact with supernatural horror elements, The Terror offers a chilling and thought-provoking take on one of the most enduring mysteries of the 19th century.

The Real-Life Tragedy of the Franklin Expedition

To fully appreciate the creative liberties taken by Simmons and the...

In this episode of the Fully-Booked podcast, we delve into the pervasive phenomenon of World War II alternate history books. As we near the end of our month-long exploration of alternate history literature, we couldn't help but notice the sheer volume of stories that focus on this pivotal global conflict.

From imagining a world where the Nazis emerged victorious to speculating about the consequences of key events playing out differently, World War II has proven to be an inexhaustible source of inspiration for writers and readers alike.

The Magnitude and Impact of World...

In this episode of the Fully-Booked podcast, we dive into the fascinating world of alternate history fiction with the 2016 Hulu miniseries 11.22.63, based on Stephen King's 2011 novel of the same name. While King is primarily known for his horror works, 11.22.63 showcases his versatility as a writer, blending elements of science fiction, historical fiction, and thriller to create a compelling narrative centered around one of the most pivotal moments in American history: the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.

The Kennedy Assassination and Its Aftermath

To fully appreciate the premise of 11.22.63, it's essential to understand...

In this episode of the Fully-Booked podcast, we delve into the fascinating subgenre of alternate history, a topic we're also covering in-depth on our website and newsletter this month. As we explore the different flavors of alternate history fiction, from magical retellings of Tudor England to dystopian tales of parallel universes, we find ourselves pondering the age-old question: what if?

Defining Alternate History

Alternate history is a tricky genre to pin down, as it often straddles the line between science fiction and historical fiction. Depending on the story, an alternate history tale might...

In this episode of the Fully Booked podcast, we dive into the world of alternate history with the 2022 Amazon Prime series My Lady Jane, based on the 2016 novel of the same name. The show offers a whimsical and fantastical retelling of the life of Lady Jane Grey, the "Nine Days' Queen" who briefly ruled England in 1553.

While we typically dip our toes into science fiction and dystopian themes, My Lady Jane allows us to explore a different aspect of speculative fiction through the lens of historical events.

Historical Context

...

In this engaging podcast episode of Fully Booked, hosts Meaghan and Shirin explore the rich territory of haunted house literature as they close out their spooky season coverage. We find ourselves drawn into their thoughtful discussion about why these stories continue to captivate readers and what deeper meanings lie beneath their supernatural surfaces.



Current Reading Experiences






We begin by joining the hosts in their current reading adventures. Shirin shares her experience with Icebreaker and her current progression through Grady Hendrix’s How to Sell a Haunted House, wh...

In this episode of the Fully Booked podcast, we continue our exploration of occult and spooky topics for the month of October. Today, we venture into the realm of cryptozoology, focusing on the legend of the Mothman and the 2002 film The Mothman Prophecies.



As we delve into this intriguing subject, we’ll examine the origins of the Mothman legend, its cultural impact, and the movie’s attempt to bring this cryptid to the silver screen.



Understanding Cryptozoology






We begin our discussion by defining cryp...

In this episode of the Fully Booked podcast, hosts Meghan and Shirin delve into the latest adaptation of Stephen King’s 1975 novel, Salem’s Lot. Released on HBO Max on October 3rd, 2024, this new version attempts to bring King’s vampire tale to a modern audience.



As we explore the film’s strengths and weaknesses, we’ll examine how it compares to the source material and previous adaptations, and discuss why it ultimately falls short of expectations.



NoteThe following is an editorialized transcript of our weekly literary podcast. If you would like...

In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the fascinating journey of how these magical female characters have been portrayed throughout history. From ancient Greek mythology to modern fantasy novels, we’ll examine the changing perceptions, cultural influences, and societal reflections that have shaped the witch archetype in literature.



NoteThe following is an editorialized transcript of our weekly literary podcast. If you would like to listen to the podcast, click the play button above orlisten on your favorite platform with the links below.



Ancient Beginnings: Goddesses and Sorceresses

Duration: 00:38:54

In our latest podcast episode, hosts Meaghan and Shirin provide in-depth analysis and critique of the 2024 Netflix book adaptation of Scott Westerfeld’s young adult novel Uglies. As we delve into their discussion, we’ll explore the film’s premise, its execution, and how it compares to both the source material and the current social climate.



NoteThe following is an editorialized transcript of our weekly literary podcast. If you would like to listen to the podcast, click the play button above orlisten on your favorite platform with the links below.



Settin...

In this episode of the Fully-Booked podcast, hosts Meaghan and Shirin discuss Sofia Coppola’s 2023 film adaptation of Priscilla Presley’s 1985 memoir, Elvis and Me. The hosts explain that while they are in the middle of a dystopian fiction month on their podcast, they decided to release this previously recorded discussion about Priscilla as a special episode.



NoteThe following is an editorialized transcript of our weekly literary podcast. If you would like to listen to the podcast, click the play button above orlisten on your favorite platform with the links below.


Duration: 00:32:03

In a recent episode of the Fully Booked podcast, hosts Meaghan and Shirin delved into the fascinating realm of dystopian young adult (YA) fiction. The duo explored the genre’s popularity, discussed notable works, and analyzed its themes and tropes, offering listeners a comprehensive look at this influential literary category.



NoteThe following is an editorialized transcript of our weekly literary podcast. If you would like to listen to the podcast, click the play button above orlisten on your favorite platform with the links below.



We began by proposing an intriguing th...

In this episode of the Fully Booked podcast, host Meaghan and Shirin dive into a detailed discussion of the 2023 film adaptation of Suzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes. This prequel to the original Hunger Games trilogy offers a deep dive into the origins of future Panem President Coriolanus Snow, set against the backdrop of the 10th annual Hunger Games.



Setting the Stage: Post-War Panem



We begin our journey in a Capitol still reeling from the effects of a recent rebellion. The once-wealthy Snow family, including yo...

In this bonus podcast episode, we explore the newest Netflix adaptation: A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder.



The story follows the story of Pippa (Pip) Fitz-Amobi, a high school student in small-town England (notably, the book is set in the US, while the show shifts the setting to England). Pip decides to investigate a five-year-old murder case for her final school project, which doubles as a university admissions essay. The case involves the disappearance of Andy Bell and the subsequent suicide of her boyfriend, Sal Singh, who was accused of her murder.
Duration: 00:55:29

We recently had the pleasure of revisiting the 2002 Disney book adaptation of Natalie Babbitt’s beloved 1975 children’s novel, Tuck Everlasting. Directed by Jay Russell and starring Alexis Bledel, Ben Kingsley, Sissy Spacek, and Jonathan Jackson, the film brings to life the enchanting tale of Winnie Foster, a teenage girl who stumbles upon a family’s incredible secret: a spring that grants eternal life to those who drink from it.



NoteThe following is an editorialized transcript of our weekly literary podcast. If you would like to listen to the podcast, click the play button above...

We begin our discussion by noting that this is a bonus podcast episode to cover the recently released film adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s wildly popular novel It Ends With Us. We acknowledge the film’s heavy subject matter, particularly domestic violence, and provide a content warning.



The film has received mixed critical reviews but very positive audience scores so far. We express our pleasant surprise at the quality romance book adaptation, despite not loving the original book.



NoteThe following is an editorialized transcript of our weekly literary podcast. If you...

In this literary podcast episode, hosts Shirin and Meaghan embark on a journey down memory lane, reminiscing about their favorite childhood books that shaped their reading habits and tastes as adults.



NoteThe following is an editorialized transcript of our weekly literary podcast. If you would like to listen to the podcast, click the play button above orlisten on your favorite platform with the links below.





Childhood Favorites



J.K. Rowling – Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone Cover


Meaghan chimes in, shar...

Louis Sachar’s Holes captivated readers with its intricate plot and memorable characters when it was published in 1998. Five years later, the beloved young adult novel made was adapted for the big screen, introducing Stanley Yelnats and Camp Green Lake to a wider audience. While both versions tell the story of an unlucky teenager’s journey through a juvenile detention camp and a centuries-old family curse, they differ in subtle yet significant ways.



In this podcast, we dive into the key similarities and differences between the book and movie adaptations of Holes, exploring how each...

Our literary podcast‘s theme for the month of July continues to be young adult thrillers. For this week’s episode, we explore the dramatic transformation of the thriller genre, particularly in young adult literature and its adaptations across various media.



Over recent years, we’ve observed a significant escalation in the level of danger and stakes presented to characters, often blurring the lines between thriller and horror. Our examination delves into the multifaceted factors driving these changes, from societal influences and global events to evolving audience expectations.



NoteThe following is an...

On our weekly podcast episode, we are covering a young adult thriller TV show Panic. Panic is a TV series that premiered on Amazon Prime in 2021, adapted from Lauren Oliver’s 2014 novel. Set in the fictional town of Carp, Texas, it revolves around a dangerous annual game where high school graduates compete for a $50,000 prize. The story centers on Heather, a girl from a poor family who reluctantly enters the competition when her college savings are stolen by her mother.



NoteThe following is an editorialized transcript of our weekly literary podcast. If you would li...

For the month of July, on our literary podcast, we have delved into an interesting discussion about the evolution of young adult thrillers and mysteries. As we explored this topic, we noted several key points and themes that highlight the significant shift in this genre over time.



NoteThe following is an editorialized transcript of our weekly literary podcast. If you would like to listen to the podcast, click the play button above orlisten on your favorite platform with the links below.



Classic Teen Mysteries vs. Modern YA Thrillers

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We begin by noting that this episode of the Fully-Booked: Literary Podcast is focused on young adult mystery thrillers, a genre that has become increasingly popular in recent years. To kick off the month, we’ve chosen to discuss the 2021 Netflix book adaptation of There’s Someone Inside Your House, based on a 2017 novel by Stephanie Perkins.



NoteThe following is an editorialized transcript of our weekly literary podcast. If you would like to listen to the podcast, click the play button above orlisten on your favorite platform with the links below.


Duration: 00:33:55

It’s time for a bonus episode of our podcast! We’re finally taking a look at part 2 of Bridgerton season 3, and talking about spice, secrets, and happy endings. We discussed how the second half of the season picks up immediately after Colin proposes to Penelope. The engagement is announced to the Bridgerton family, who are mostly excited, though Eloise confronts Penelope about not telling Colin she is Lady Whistledown.





NoteThe following is an editorialized transcript of our weekly literary podcast. If you would like to listen to the podcast, click the play...

In this literary podcast episode, we are discussing J.R.R. Tolkien’s immense influence on the high fantasy genre. As we wrap up our coverage of high fantasy this month, we recognize that it’s impossible to talk about the genre without examining Tolkien’s foundational work. We acknowledge that while fantasy existed before Tolkien, he created one of the most elaborate and expansive fictional universes that continues to shape the genre today.



NoteThe following is an editorialized transcript of our weekly literary podcast. If you would like to listen to the podcast, click...

We begin this literary podcast episode by discussing high fantasy books and series that we believe are ripe for screen adaptation, reflecting on both older, established series and newer, popular works. We share our current reading experiences, including works by Riley Sager and a cozy mystery series featuring a Chinese Indonesian family.



NoteThe following is an editorialized transcript of our weekly literary podcast. If you would like to listen to the podcast, click the play button above orlisten on your favorite platform with the links below.





High Fantasy...

We began our podcast episode by defining and analyzing the high fantasy genre, which has seen a remarkable surge in popularity over the last five years or so, particularly among adult readers and literary communities.



What Is Considered High Fantasy?



We established that high fantasy refers to stories set entirely within fictional, constructed worlds that do not exist in reality, as opposed to stories with fantastical elements that take place in the real world.



Prominent examples we cited include epochal series like The Lord of the...

Welcome to the month of June! To kick off the summer season, we’ll be focusing on all things high fantasy. Old and new, adapted or not, we’re chatting about the massive resurgence in love for the genre, with tons of high fantasy works being published monthly. To begin this month’s podcast with a classic, this week we’re revisiting the 2005 adaptation of C.S. Lewis’ beloved installment in his Chronicles of Narnia series, The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe.



NoteThe following is an editorialized transcript of our weekly literary podcast. If you wou...

We begin by acknowledging that this is the last podcast episode of the month, where we tend to become a bit zany and go off on tangents after recording multiple episodes. This leads us to reflect on the recent explosion of interest in historical fiction, particularly period romance and the Regency era, sparked by the immense popularity of the show Bridgerton.



NoteThe following is an editorialized transcript of our weekly literary podcast. If you would like to listen to the podcast, click the play button above orlisten on your favorite platform with the links...

We begin our podcast episode by discussing the premiere of the first four episodes of Bridgerton season 3, which dropped on May 16th, and adapt the storyline of Penelope Featherington (Lady Whistledown) and Colin Bridgerton from Julia Quinn’s fourth book, Romancing Mr. Bridgerton.



NoteThe following is an editorialized transcript of our weekly literary podcast. If you would like to listen to the podcast, click the play button above orlisten on your favorite platform with the links below.



The Plot







Romancing Mr. Bridgerton Duration: 00:57:27

The second season of the hit book adaptation Bridgerton shifts the focus to Anthony Bridgerton, the eldest son who has taken on the responsibilities of Viscount after his father’s untimely death. Still haunted by that childhood trauma, Anthony is determined to fulfill his duty through a pragmatic marriage alliance rather than seeking love and risking heartbreak. His comical dating misadventures set the stage for his fateful meeting with the newly arrived Sharma family.



NoteThe following is an editorialized transcript of our weekly literary podcast. If you would like to listen to the podcast, cl...

We began our literary podcast discussion on historical fiction by acknowledging there seems to be some disagreement on what truly qualifies as part of this subgenre. We had initially thought the definition was straightforward – fiction set in a historical time period.



NoteThe following is an editorialized transcript of our weekly literary podcast. If you would like to listen to the podcast, click the play button above orlisten on your favorite platform with the links below.



However, upon further research, we realized many lists of famous “historical fiction” included classic novels like T...

Bridgerton has taken the world by storm with the book adaptation of this historical fiction series by Netflix of the first book in 2020. We’ve of course watched the whole show and are up to date with the latest episodes! But we’ve recently decided to rewatch the first season of the show and get a fresh perspective on the story.



We open our story in Regency-era London, where the new social season has begun and the high society mothers are desperate to secure advantageous matches for their debutante daughters. At the center of atte...

We are celebrating reaching the 100th episode of the Fully Booked podcast, taking a moment to thank all the listeners for their support, whether they are new to the show or have been tuning in for a while! We express our gratitude for the interactions and regular listenership, and we are eager to continue for another 100 episodes.



NoteThe following is an editorialized transcript of our weekly literary podcast. If you would like to listen to the podcast, click the play button above orlisten on your favorite platform with the links below.


<...

We recently reviewed the 2000 film American Psycho, director Mary Harron’s adaptation of the 1991 novel by Bret Easton Ellis. Set in late 1980s New York, it satirizes the wealthy young investment bankers and traders who embodied Wall Street’s greed culture during that era’s financial boom.



NoteThe following is an editorialized transcript of the podcast episode about the American Psycho book adaptation. If you would like to listen to the podcast, click the play button above orlisten on your favorite platform with the links below.



What is American Psycho about...

This week, we had an in-depth exploration into the heart of what defines a novel or literary work as truly exemplifying the “Americana” genre. While there are clear overlaps between Americana and American literature as a whole, Americana has a distinct aesthetic and perspective that evokes a strong sense of nostalgia, harkening back to fading memories and ways of life.



NoteThe following is an editorialized transcript of the podcast episode about the defining traits of Americana books. If you would like to listen to the podcast, click the play above orlisten on your favorite plat...

It’s time for Americana for the month of April! We’re kicking things off with the 2023 adaptation of Alice Walker’s The Color Purple (as well as the stage musical of the same name). We are introduced to the story in 1909 Georgia, following two teenage sisters, Celie and Nettie Harris. Celie has been repeatedly impregnated and abused by their father, who takes away her children. The sisters dream of escaping their traumatic home life.



Nettie is allowed to attend school with hopes she can become a teacher, while Celie is forced to work at the...

We begin discussing the 2024 Netflix miniseries adaptation of the novel One Day by David Nicholls. The 14-episode series faithfully adapts the 2009 book, which was previously made into a 2011 film starring Anne Hathaway and Jim Sturgess. This new adaptation stars Ambika Maud as Emma Morley and Leah Woodall as Dexter Mayhew in the lead roles.



One Day Summary



Courtesy of Netflix


The premise follows Emma and Dexter, introduced as students at the University of Edinburgh, who meet on July 15th, 1988 – their college graduation day. A spark occurs between th...

We’re kicking off this episode by catching up on our recent reads. Shirin has just started the highly anticipated Bride by Ali Hazelwood but found it giving off more supernatural Underworld vibes than expected Twilight vibes with its arranged marriage between a vampire and werewolf.



Meaghan has finished reading Bride and the psychological thriller None of This Is True by Lisa Jewell. She raves about how compulsively readable None of This Is True was, perfectly suited for devouring in one sitting on vacation without stopping due to the intriguing premise and steady unveiling of...

In this episode of the podcast Fully Booked, we’re discussing the 2000 Coen Brothers film O Brother, Where Art Thou?, a modern adaptation of the ancient Greek epic poem The Odyssey by Homer. The film stars George Clooney as Ulysses Everett McGill, an escaped convict who persuades his chain-gang companions Delmar and Pete to join him on a madcap adventure across 1930s Mississippi. Under the pretense of retrieving buried treasure from a bank heist, Everett’s true goal is to reconnect with his estranged wife Penny before she remarries.



We learned that the Coen Brot...

Let’s Talk about myths, baby! We begin our discussion by reflecting on the unseasonably mild winter weather in Canada and how it has left us feeling disoriented about the changing of seasons. Despite our uncertainty, we decided to move forward with the topic at hand – the recent surge in popularity of mythology retellings, especially those inspired by Greek and Roman myths.



We note that while such retellings have existed for centuries, there has been a massive resurgence of these stories in the past 5-6 years. We point to Madeline Miller’s acclaimed novel Circe...

Spring is in the air people! It’s time for a brand new theme to dissect and discuss, and this month we’re talking all things mythology and folklore. To kick things off, we’re analyzing the 2010 film adaptation of the young adult novel The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan. This is the first book in Riordan’s popular Percy Jackson series about modern-day teenage demigods.



We provide background that the title character Percy Jackson is the 12-year-old son of the Greek god Poseidon. He discovers he is a demigod and goes...

Welcome to our last episode of the Fully Booked podcast focused on paranormal and supernatural fiction. But how did paranormal fiction get its start, and where is it these days? We’re taking this opportunity to chat about the evolution of the subgenre.





Meaghan shares that she has been reading a lot of hockey romance books, which Shirin finds funny and very “Canadian.” Shirin then opens up about trying to read the popular Cruel Prince fantasy series by Holly Black after seeing it raved about everywhere. But she ended up finding the first...

It’s time for another paranormal book-to-film adaptation! This week, we’re talking about a titan of the paranormal genre, Stephen King. His 2013 novel Doctor Sleep may have seemed like a difficult story to adapt for a film going audience, but luckily horror lover and master of adaptations Mike Flanagan was able to successfully pull it off.





Doctor Sleep Summary






We introduce Doctor Sleep as the sequel to The Shining – following a now adult Dan Torrance struggling with addiction issues as he uses his psychic “shining”...

What’s that? You want more paranormal fiction talk? You’ve got it!



This podcast episode may be dropping the week before Valentine’s Day, but this week we’re chatting about the scare factor of paranormal fiction. Do these stories always have to be scary? There are so many elements to paranormal fiction, but does horror always have to be one of them?





Evolution of Paranormal Stories






Getting into the main discussion, we’re tackling paranormal and supernatural fiction, including how these...

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