Bookmarked Podcast

The Perks of Being a Wallflower

In this episode, Abby and Austin, dive into a discussion of the book The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephe Chbosky.  We read and discussed this book in our book club during the 2021-2022 school year.  The book is a refreshing view of high school through the lens of a male underclassman.  Trigger warning: This book does lightly touch upon the theme of sexual abuse.  This episode is not appropriate for young listeners.

Thirteen Reasons Why

In recognition of Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month, we are sharing this episode by Rebeka and Mrs. Zaunbrecher over Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher. It's an older book, but definitely still relevant to our society today.  With heavy themes of suicide, rape, and bullying, we do caution listeners who may be listening around younger children.  The book sheds light on many issues teenagers deal with in our fast paced and technologically advanced society.  It is a timely read for the month of September and bringing awareness to suicide prevention.

Zodiac Legacy: Convergence

In today's episode, Austin and Owen will discuss the first book in the Zodiac Legacy, Convergence, by Stan Lee.  The Zodiac Legacy follows the experiences of Steven Lee, a Chinese American teen who begins an action packed adventure when 12 magical superpowers are unleashed on the world. To learn more about this series, listen as Austin and Owen discuss the plot and their thoughts on Lee's work.

First Chapter Friday, Ep. 6 Aurora Rising

In this episode, Mrs. Kyzer the library media specialist at BHS, reads the first chapter from Aurora Rising by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff.  The novel is a young adult science fiction story set in the year 2380. It follows protagonist, Tyler Jones who is the star cadet from the current graduating class of Aurora Academy.  On the eve of the long awaited draft, Tyler's restlessness keeps him from sleeping, and he goes out on an unnecessary flight in space to calm his mind.  What he encounters on this flight changes his future and plans to recruit the squad of his dreams. Instead he is stuck with a misfit collection of cadets and a girl who has been trapped in cryo-sleep for two centuries!  Have a listen to the first chapter and hear how Tyler's late night escapade will change the future of the entire galaxy!

Author Interview with Sarah Goodman, Author of Eventide

In this episode, Austin interviews Sarah Goodman, author of the YA novel Eventide.  This episode and book are special to us as Ms. Goodman is an Arkansas native.  Eventide is an historical fiction novel set in Wheeler, Arkansas, a small Ozark town in Northwest, Arkansas.  The novel is also part fantasy with a haunted forest and evil granny witch character.  You won't be disappointed in this page turner read! Spoiler ALERT: Austin and Ms. Goodman do discuss most of the novel.  Listen at your own risk, if you have not read the book. 

Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers

In this episode, Rebeka and Alondra will be discussing their views on the book Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers.  Many of you might have seen the movie recently in theaters, but as usual the book is different!  Have a listen to Rebeka and Alondra to see if you should give the book a read.  Warning: This episode may not be suitable for young listeners.  PG-13

The Murder Game

We're finally back!  Sorry for the hiatus! 

For this week's episode, Rebeka and Alondra will be discussing The Murder Game by Carrie Doyle.  This YA thriller and murder mystery is hard to put down!  It keeps you guessing right to the end of the story.  Have a listen to hear Rebeka and Alondra's take on things!  

A Heart on Hold by Sara Barnard

Join Brin and Joseph as they discuss this romance novel set in Arkansas during the Civil War time period.  The novel has a western feel to it due to the setting.  It is the first book in a series.

Black History Month Literature Analysis

Join Abby and Rebeka as they discuss Stolen Into Slavery: The True Story of Solomon Northup, Free Black Man and Run: Book One.  A nice parallel is made between how African Americans were treated during the slavery period and later during the Civil Rights movement.  Run: Book One is an awesome graphic novel written in part by the late U.S. Senator, John Lewis.  It gives the reader a unique behind the scenes look at the work involved during the Civil Rights Movement in the U.S.  Both books are currently available for check out in the BHS Library Media Center and for digital checkout via the SORA app from the Saline County Library.

First Chapter Friday, Ep. 5 Charming as a Verb

In this episode, Mrs. Kyzer, the library media specialist at BHS, reads the first chapter from Charming as a Verb by Ben Philippe.  This novel is a romantic comedy set in modern day New York City.  It centers on two black teenagers who attend the prestigious FATE Academy. Both have aspirations that lead them to work together to hustle those around them.  What starts out as a reluctant collaboration turns into much more as the novel progresses.  Have a listen to the first chapter and stop by your local library to check out the book, if you like what you hear!