JCPL librarians bring you book recommendations and discuss the bites and beverages to pair with them.
Books & Bites Podcast, Ep. 112
Give your reading a fresh start with the Spring Books & Bites Bingo reading challenge.
From now through June 30, 2026, keep track of books you read or listen to on the Spring Books & Bites Bingo Card. Complete all 9 squares for a chance to win a $50 Joseph-Beth gift card.
On this episode, we visit fictional small-towns from Mississippi to Northern Ireland.
Our picks include an emotional YA novel about close friendship; a tale of college football that will tackle you out the gate; and a dark comedy served with a side of curry chips.
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Jacqueline’s Pick
Set in a fictional town in England, this YA novel explores the lives of studious, high-achieving Frances and Aled, a podcaster coping with his sister’s disappearance.
It’s a refreshing portrayal of a deep, platonic friendship between two teens grappling with identity, expectations, and mental health.
Pairing: Crispy Waffles from Creams Cafe
Michael’s Pick
Mississippi Blue 42 by Eli Cranor
The University of Central Mississippi’s football program has gotten good—way too fast. So good, the FBI has sent rookie special agent Rae Johnson and veteran agent Frank Ranchino to investigate.
Their potential leads have gone nowhere. But then the team’s star quarterback dies after falling off the roof of a local bar with a duffle bag full of cash.
Now Rae and Frank are pulled deep into the shadowy world of college football’s underbelly—bagmen, boosters, and power players who make sure the money moves without ever getting their hands dirty.
Pairing: Mississippi Mud Pie
Carrie’s Pick
Big Girl, Small Town by Michelle Gallen
This novel follows one week in the life of Majella O’Neill, a 27-year-old who lives a quiet life in a small village in Northern Ireland.
Majella has her share of problems. Her beloved father disappeared during the Troubles, and her alcoholic mother has been a wreck ever since. Recently, Majella’s granny was murdered in a brutal robbery.
Majella copes the best she can: by working in a local chip shop, watching DVDs of Dallas, and spending Sunday nights at the pub.
If you’re a fan of the sitcom Derry Girls or the novel Elinor Oliphant Is Completely Fine, you might enjoy this darkly funny book.
Pairing: Chips and Curry Sauce