Book Buzz

Episode 144 - Air date: March 8, 2026

JESSICA:

Hi, this is Jessica Russell. I’m the assistant director of collection services at Sno-Isle Libraries. And welcome to Book Buzz.

Today's two reading recommendations are both fantasy fiction novels, but with their own spin.

First, we’re going to hear from Nichole, library associate at the Stanwood Library, for a story of a determined Indigenous teen. Go ahead, Nichole.

NICHOLE:

“To Shape a Dragon’s Breath” by Moniquill Blackgoose is an Indigenous fantasy novel told in the first person. A 15-year-old named Anequs bonds with a dragon hatchling on her island home of Masquapaug and their bond changes everything. She’s sent off to an Anglish dragon academy, where she has to deal with culture shock, prejudice, and people who don’t understand her or where she comes from. On top of it all, the Anglish have very specific ideas of how a dragon should be raised and how Anequs herself should behave.

As Anequs learns how to control her dragon’s power, she also fights to assert her identity and unique perspectives in a world that keeps trying to reshape her. It’s admirable seeing her manipulate this system to get what she wants and shape her own path.

I finished all 511 pages in a single weekend and absolutely adored all the side characters, the descriptions of the dragons, the romantic elements, and the world building. This felt somewhat like a Jane Austen flavored historic fantasy mixed with a magical academy for dragon riders. It’s ultimately about being presented with a role that you’re expected to fill, but spurning other people’s expectations in favor of your own individuality and beliefs. It’s a really inspiring read and I can’t wait to read the second book.

JESSICA:

Thanks, Nichole! This is such a great example of a story full of diverse characters and identities.

Next, let’s hear about a twisted fairy tale nightmare from Jen, library associate at the Arlington Library. Take it away, Jen.

JEN:

This entry into Cassandra Khaw’s oeuvre is a shimmering mermaid’s tail of a fable, with Khaw’s signature graphic and macabre underpinnings. What we have recorded in various forms of lore, is NOT an accurate portrayal of the mythical creatures from the ocean depths. “The Little Mermaid” was never asked for her perspective, because it would belie the farce of a fairy tale we know.

In the era of the Black Death, we follow our heroine, a so-called mermaid by her captors, and her misadventures with a mysterious and charismatic plague doctor. They must face unimaginable horrors, but they do it together. In these dark ages, we find that the salt does indeed grow heavy, but when you have someone with whom to share the anguish of existence, you can winter any storm, even in the harsh and unforgiving Taiga.

Cassandra Khaw has a WAY with words. Almost lyrical in its prose, this short, unique read had me totally engrossed, disgusted, delighted, and hungry for more. A modern twist in the gothic tradition, it is fecund with ambiance and sensation, along with a healthy dose of gore, for a visceral experience Khaw is master of. Not for the faint of heart, a fetid yet simultaneously sweet read. If you enjoy the supernatural, the horrors of reality, a relationship that rivals the sincerest of love stories, inexplicably and yet expertly interwoven, I highly recommend “The Salt Grows Heavy.”

JESSICA:

Thanks, Jen! This book IS a hauntingly beautiful nightmare and I loved the gorgeous prose.

Our recommendations this week are: “To Shape a Dragon’s Breath” by Moniquill Blackgoose and “The Salt Grows Heavy” by Cassandra Khaw.

Join us next time, when we’ll explore more great reading recommendations — interesting books you can find at your favorite local bookstore or at your local library.

Until then, I’m Jessica Russell from Sno-Isle Libraries.

Thanks for joining us for Book Buzz on KSER.