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Scrawny little Anne Shirley with the "carrot-colored" hair is a classic character in children's literature, and for good reason. On this episode we talk about all things Anne of Green Gables, including the dynamics of Avonlea, the evolving nature of childhood and adolescence, the charm of Gilbert Blythe, "kindred spirits" vs. "bosom friends," and of course, Anne herself. Pairs well with Christmas cake and raspberry cordial.

Claudia and her younger brother Jamie run away to live in the Metropolitan Museum in this classic novel by E.L. Konigsburg. We discuss siblings (in life and literature), how we, like Claudia, are bona fide Indoors Kids, and the relentless appeal of New York City. Pairs well with mac-and-cheese and street vendor pretzels.

In Lois Lowry's eerie, dystopian novel "The Giver," Jonas reckons with the implications of being one of two people in his society who know about a time with feelings, color, and choice. We talk about precise language, the dark appeal of Sameness, and Katie Holmes. Recommended pairing: rations (skim milk + canned beans).

In this 70’s classic by Judy Blume, Margaret Simon moves to the burbs, joins a secret club, and becomes a woman, in the biological sense of the word. We talk about grandmas (ours and hers), slut-shaming, and relationships with God and religion. Recommended pairing: deli bagels and communion wafers.