Five(ish) Fangirls Episode #531: Summer Reading Check-In

It’s our semi-belated birthday celebration, and we’re getting back to our bibliophile roots! In this episode, we share some of our current favorite reads, from recent discoveries to books we just can’t stop recommending. Whether you're looking for your next great adventure, a compelling nonfiction read, or something completely unexpected, there’s bound to be a title (or several) that catches your attention. Fair warning: we cannot be held responsible for the inevitable growth of your TBR (To Be Read) pile by the time this episode is over. Consider yourself warned!

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TIME STAMPS

00:00:21 Intro

00:02:54 News

No Feedback

00:22:41 Book Talk

02:28:21 Closing Thoughts

02:30:27 Outro

NEWS

Doctor Who is heading back into the wilderness

Salt Palace to close for 3-year renovation project

 

RESOURCES

Pizza Hut Book It!

 

The Books

 

RACHEL

Read

American Scary: A History of Horror, from Salem to Stephen King and Beyond (Jeremy Dauber)

Yesteryear (Caro Claire Burke)

Everything Is Tuberculosis: The History and Persistence of Our Deadliest Infection (John Green)

Currently Reading

Expect Great Things: How the Katherine Gibbs School Revolutionized the American Workplace for Women (Canda Krefft)

Ruthless: Scientology, My Son David Miscavige, and Me (Ron Miscavage)

TBR

Cult of the Dead Cow: How the Original Hacking Supergroup Might Just Save the World

Aftermath (Levar Burton)

The Conspiracy Tourist: Travels Through a Strange World (Dom Joly)

HOLLY

Read

Dungeon Crawler Carl series: by Matt Dinniman 

Daindreth's Assassin by Elisabeth Wheatley 

Red Shirts: John Scalzi 

 

Reading

Throne of Glass by Sarah J Maas 

The Devil in Oxford Jess Armstrong 

 

TBR

Don’t ask…..

CHRISSY

Read

Shield of Sparrows by Devney Perry

Reading Soon: Rites of the Starling, book 2

The Deal by Elle Kennedy

This Kingdom Will Not Kill Me by Ilona Andrews

Butcher and Blackbird by Brynne Weaver (The Ruinous Love Trilogy)

The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas - Audiobook read by John Lee

Vera Wong’s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers by Jesse Q. Sutanto

First-Time Caller by BK Borison

The God and the Gumiho by Sophie Kim

The Irresistible Urge to Fall for Your Enemy by Brigitte Knightley

Reading Soon: The Exquisite Torment of Loving Your Enemy (book 2) Out in July

The West Wind by Alexandria Warwick (The Four Winds series)

Currently Reading:

Wild Reverence by Rebecca Ross

TBR:

The Lion and the Deathless Dark by Carissa Broadbent (out in August - eARC on the dock)

The Sun and the Starmaker by Rachel Griffin (gorgeous cover and sprayed edges and - it’s such a pretty book! That’s why I picked it up in the first place)

Defy the Dusk by Danielle L. Jensen (out in November - I have an eARC from NetGalley)

Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use. 

Five(ish) Fangirls Episode #530: That's All

That’s all! In this episode, we step into the stylish, high-pressure world of The Devil Wears Prada and the books that inspired and expanded its story. From the original novel by Lauren Weisberger to the beloved film adaptation and its place in pop culture, we discuss the characters, fashion, workplace drama, and lasting legacy of this modern classic. Whether you’re Team Miranda, Team Andy, or just here for the fabulous outfits, there’s plenty to unpack in this fashionable fandom favorite.

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/FiveishFangirls #FiveishFam   

TIME STAMPS

00:00:18 Intro
00:01:25 News

00:12:45 Feedback

00:20:18 The Devil Wears Prada

01:36:24 Closing Thoughts

01:41:28 Outro

NEWS

Anthony Head, 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer' and 'Ted Lasso' Actor, Dies at 72, 6 Months After Partner's Death 

2026 Tony Award winners

Gold Standard: My Cousin Vinny

Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use.

 

Five(ish) Fangirls Episode #529: Such Good Company

Nope, it isn’t déjà vu! It’s time once again for our annual birthday tradition, where one of the Fangirls gets to choose a favorite Doctor Who audio adventure from Big Finish Productions. This year, it’s Brittany’s turn, and her pick is The Company of Friends (#123). Featuring stories spotlighting several of the Doctor’s companions and friends across different eras, this unique release offers a fascinating look at relationships throughout the Whoniverse. Join us as we discuss the stories, performances, and what makes this audio adventure stand out.

 

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/FiveishFangirls #FiveishFam   

TIME STAMPS

00:00:13 Intro

00:01:03 News

00:05:59 Feedback

00:12:47 Big Finish #123 The Company of Friends

01:13:08 Closing Thoughts

01:15:06 Outro

NEWS

Book club update

Gold Standard Patreon: Finding Neverland (2004)

 

RESOURCES

https://www.bigfinish.com/releases/v/doctor-who-the-company-of-friends-289

https://tardis.fandom.com/wiki/The_Company_of_Friends_(audio_anthology)

 

 

Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use.

 

Five(ish) Fangirls Episode #528: A Season of Life

It’s birthday tradition time once again at Five(ish) Fangirls! Each year, one of us gets to choose a favorite Doctor Who audio adventure from Big Finish Productions, and this time it’s Chrissy’s turn. Her selection is Circular Time (#91), a unique Fifth Doctor story that explores four very different adventures connected by the changing seasons. Join us as we discuss the stories, performances, themes, and whether this distinctive anthology-style audio stands the test of time.

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/FiveishFangirls #FiveishFam   

TIME STAMPS

00:00:14 Intro

00:01:21 News

00:15:48 Feedback

00:31:05 Big Finish #91: Circular Time

01:17:59 Closing Thoughts

01:20:01 Outro

NEWS

Tom Kane, ‘Star Wars: The Clone Wars’ and ‘Powerpuff Girls’ voice actor, dies at 64

FIFA World Cup halftime show announcement: Madonna, Shakira, BTS, and the Muppets

Doctor Who streaming announcement

Gold Standard: Puppet Master, The Secret of NIHM

 

RESOURCES

https://www.bigfinish.com/releases/v/doctor-who-circular-time-257

https://tardis.fandom.com/wiki/Circular_Time_(audio_anthology)

 

Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use.

 

A Little Extra Squee: For The Trees! An Indy PopCon 2026 Recap

It’s time for another special edition of A Little Extra Squee! In this episode, Rachel recaps her adventures at this year’s Indy PopCon, including celebrity panels, cosplay, fandom fun, shopping, food, and all the chaos and excitement that comes with convention weekend. From memorable moments to unexpected surprises, Rachel shares what made this year’s PopCon experience stand out and why conventions continue to be such an important part of fandom culture.

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/FiveishFangirls #FiveishFam   

Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use.

 

Five(ish) Fangirls Episode #527: Peachy Keen

This week we’re taking a trip inside a very unusual piece of fruit as we discuss James and the Giant Peach and its various adaptations through the years. From Roald Dahl’s original whimsical (and slightly dark) story to the beloved film versions, we explore what has made this imaginative adventure endure for generations. Join us as we talk giant insects, unforgettable visuals, childhood nostalgia, and how each adaptation brings something a little different to James’ journey.

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/FiveishFangirls #FiveishFam   

TIME STAMPS

00:00:17 Intro

00:06:11 News

00:20:02 Feedback

00:42:34 James and the Giant Peach

01:49:08 Closing Thoughts

01:51:39 Outro

NEWS

Spaceballs: The New One teaser

Ted Lasso S4 teaser

Good Omens S3 trailer

Gold Standard: The Avengers (2012)

 

RESOURCES

The Messed Up Origins of James and the Giant Peach

why did anyone let their kids watch James and the Giant Peach??

James and the Giant Peach was a HUGE flop

 

Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use.    

 

 

Five(ish) Fangirls Episode #526: Cleveland With Palm Trees

Lights, camera, superhero! In this episode, we dive into season one of Wonder Man, one of the MCU’s most meta additions yet. We discuss Simon Williams’ journey through fame, filmmaking, and superpowers, the show’s Hollywood satire, and how it fits into the ever-expanding Marvel universe. Does Wonder Man strike the right balance between comedy, commentary, and action? Tune in as we break down the highlights, surprises, and what it could mean for the MCU going forward.

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/FiveishFangirls #FiveishFam   

TIME STAMPS 

00:00:17 Intro

00:02:45 News

00:20:22 Feedback

00:39:28 Wonder Man Season 1

02:03:34 Closing Thoughts

02:09:31 Outro

NEWS

Indy PopCon

The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping trailer

2026 Rock Hall inductees

 

RESOURCES

https://marvel.fandom.com/wiki/Simon_Williams_(Earth-616)

 

Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use.   

Five(ish) Fangirls Episode #525: Swamp Sweet Swamp

After a brief, unexpected hiatus, we’re back and diving into the swamp! In this episode, we explore the history and surprising rise of Shrek, the animated hit that changed the game for studios like DreamWorks Animation. From its unconventional production journey to its massive cultural impact, we discuss how Shrek became an unlikely success story—and why its humor, heart, and fairy tale twists still resonate with audiences today. Plus we tackle the pile up of fandom news and feedback that may have sent us on a few tangents and rabbit trails.

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/FiveishFangirls #FiveishFam   

TIME STAMPS 

00:00:23 Intro

00:03:45 News

00:45:33 Feedback

01:34:27 Shrek

02:35:50 Closing Thoughts

02:37:50 Outro

NEWS

Spider-Man: Brand New Day trailer

D23 Expo details

Indy PopCon

Salt Lake Fan X: Critical Role

✨ Laura Bailey

✨ Travis Willingham

✨ Sam Riegel

✨ Taliesin Jaffe

✨ Liam O'Brien

✨ Robbie Daymond

Book Club update

Holly on Next Stop Everywhere

Gold Standard Patreon: Captain Phillips

Gold Standard Feed: One Battle After Another

Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use.   

Five(ish) Fangirls Episode #524: Gonna Be Golden

It’s Hollywood’s biggest night, and we’re breaking it all down! Join us as we discuss the 98th Academy Awards with our returning guest DJ Nik. From the biggest wins and surprising upsets to memorable moments from the ceremony, we share our reactions to this year’s Oscars. Plus, it’s time to reveal the results of our annual head-to-head Oscars prediction contest—who came out on top this year? Tune in for plenty of movie talk, friendly rivalry, and awards season squee!

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/FiveishFangirls #FiveishFam   

00:00:24 Intro

00:05:12 Feedback

00:11:47 98th Academy Awards

01:18:26 Closing Thoughts

01:20:19 Outro

Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use.   

Five(ish) Fangirls Episode #523: Bueller, Bueller, Bueller

This week we’re taking a day off—Ferris style! Join us as we revisit the beloved 1980s comedy Ferris Bueller's Day Off, one of the most iconic films from writer-director John Hughes. From breaking the fourth wall to unforgettable moments across Chicago, we discuss why Ferris, Cameron, and Sloane’s legendary skip day still resonates decades later. Is Ferris a charming hero or a master manipulator? Either way, this John Hughes classic remains endlessly quotable and wildly fun. 

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/FiveishFangirls #FiveishFam  

TIME STAMPS

00:00:24 Intro

00:04:59 News

00:30:10 Ferris Bueller's Day Off

01:51:24 Closing Thoughts

01:53:43 Outro

NEWS

SAG winners 

2026 Rock Hall short list

Book club updates

Gold Standard: American Graffiti

Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use.   

 

Five(ish) Fangirls Episode #522: An Oblique Allusion

This episode dives into Innuendo, one of the most powerful and emotionally complex albums in Queen’s legendary catalog. We talk about the album’s themes of defiance, reflection, and perseverance, its blend of classic Queen bombast with surprising experimentation, and the context of where the band—and Freddie Mercury—were at the time. From epic title tracks to deeply personal moments, Innuendo stands as a bold, moving statement at the end of an era. Plus some fandom news and your feedback! 

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/FiveishFangirls #FiveishFam  

TIME STAMPS

00:00:13 Intro

00:02:39 News

00:21:50 Feedback

00:33:35 Innuendo

01:48:42 Closing Thoughts

01:51:15 Outro

NEWS

2026 BAFTA winners

Toy Story 5 trailer

The Mandalorian and Grogu trailer

Doctor Who: The Movie is getting a 4K release

Gold Standard Patreon: Sense and Sensibility (1995)

Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use.