Teaching My Cat To Read

15/02/2024

Check out our back cataloge on your podcast platform!

S1ep1: Pride and Prejudice

"Pride and Prejudice" is a classic novel by Jane Austen that explores the societal norms and romantic entanglements of early 19th-century England. The story follows Elizabeth Bennet as she navigates the challenges of love, social expectations, and personal growth. Set against the backdrop of the Regency era, the novel offers a witty and insightful commentary on the complexities of relationships, class distinctions, and the pursuit of happiness. It's a timeless tale of love, self-discovery, and the triumph of true character.

08/02/2024

Catch up on our old episodes on your podcast platform!

Series 3, Episode 4: Death on the Nile

"Death on the Nile" is a classic mystery novel by Agatha Christie. The story revolves around the famous detective Hercule Poirot, who is on vacation in Egypt. While enjoying a cruise on the Nile, a murder occurs, and Poirot is drawn into a complex web of intrigue and deception. The novel explores themes of love, jealousy, and revenge, with Poirot employing his brilliant deductive skills to unravel the mystery. As the investigation unfolds, secrets are revealed, and the true motives behind the crime come to light. It's a suspenseful and engaging tale of crime and detection set against the exotic backdrop of Egypt.

11/01/2024

Throwback Thursday, folks! Remember that podcast episode where we got all wrapped up in Brandon Sanderson's "The Final Empire" from the Mistborn series? 📚 Ah, the memories! From Vin's journey to Kelsier's bold moves, that book gave us plenty to talk about.

So, spill the tea! What stuck with you the most? Were you Team Vin all the way, or did Kelsier steal the show for you?

Let's keep the chat going! Drop your thoughts below and let's get into all things Mistborn. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just curious about the buzz, pull up a chair and join the conversation.

28/12/2023

Throwback Thursday to a heartwarming journey through the pages of Charles Dickens' timeless classic, "A Christmas Carol," on one of our podcast episodes. 📖✨ As we delved into the world of Ebenezer Scrooge and the ghosts of Christmas past, present, and future, it was impossible not to be captivated by Dickens' poignant storytelling.

Our conversation was a celebration of compassion, redemption, and the transformative power of the holiday spirit. From the chilly streets of Victorian London to the joyous revelations that thawed even the coldest of hearts, "A Christmas Carol" continues to be a cherished tale that transcends time.

Share your reflections on this literary masterpiece! What lessons did you take away from Scrooge's journey, and how has this classic touched your holiday traditions? Drop your thoughts in the comments below! 🗨️ Let's reminisce about the warmth and wisdom found in Dickens' narrative.

Whether you've read it every December or are considering picking it up for the first time, join us in celebrating the enduring magic of "A Christmas Carol." 🎄✨ Let the spirit of the season inspire kindness and generosity as we embrace the lessons of Scrooge's transformation.

21/12/2023

Throwback Thursday to one of our favorite podcast episodes where we dove deep into the whimsical and thought-provoking world of Terry Pratchett's "Hogfather." 📚✨ It was a conversation filled with laughter, insights, and a touch of holiday magic that only Pratchett could deliver.

As we revisited Discworld and explored the humorous complexities of the Hogfather, we couldn't help but marvel at Pratchett's unique ability to blend satire with profound observations about human nature. From the mischievous antics of Death to the existential questions lurking beneath the surface, "Hogfather" remains a timeless gem that keeps us pondering long after the final page.

What are your thoughts on the Discworld and its quirky inhabitants? Did you find the philosophical nuances as enchanting as we did? Share your favorite moments from our podcast episode or your own experiences with this literary masterpiece in the comments below! 🗨️ Let's keep the conversation alive and celebrate the brilliance of Terry Pratchett's storytelling.

Whether you're a seasoned Discworld enthusiast or a newcomer intrigued by our discussion, this is a reminder that great stories are meant to be revisited. So grab your copy of "Hogfather" and join us in reliving the joy and wisdom woven into the fabric of Pratchett's fantastical universe.

18/12/2023

Wikipedia: "Fantasy is a genre of speculative fiction involving magical elements, typically set in a fictional universe and usually inspired by mythology or folklore. The term "fantasy" can also be used to describe a "work of this genre", usually literary. "

Here is just a selection of some of the Fantasy books we read in the first series of our book podcast!

Have you read any of these Fantasy novels?

07/12/2023

Throwing it back to our podcast episode on Much Ado About Nothing by Shakespeare! 🎙️📖 Published in 1599, this timeless comedy is all about love, deception, and witty banter. Set in Messina, the story follows the sharp-tongued Beatrice and Benedick as they navigate a hilarious dance of words and emotions. 🎭 Don Pedro, Claudio, and Hero add layers to the drama, making it a rollercoaster of laughter and heartache. 🤣💔 Tune in to our episode for a dose of Shakespearean charm! 🎧✨

26/11/2023

🎙️ Missing the magical vibes of the Old Kingdom? Dive back into the enchanting world of Garth Nix's Abhorsen series with our episodes! 📚✨ Whether you're a seasoned fan or discovering these gems for the first time, our old podcast episodes on Sabriel, Lirael, Abhorsen, and The Creature in the Case are a journey through the realms of necromancy you won't want to miss.

🔗 Head to our website or your favorite podcast platform to rediscover the charm of the Charter, the suspense of the River of Death, and the triumphs of our favorite heroines. 🗝️ From deep discussions on Nix's storytelling genius to reliving the epic adventures across the border, these vintage episodes are a treat for fantasy book enthusiasts.

📖 So, grab your headphones and join us in revisiting the magical landscapes of the Abhorsen trilogy. 🌟 Whether you're basking in the nostalgia or embarking on a new adventure, our old episodes are the perfect companions for any fantasy reader. Tune in now and let the magic unfold once more! 📻✨

19/11/2023

Listen to our final episode of series 3 - a Q and A!

Listen to our final episode of series 3 – a Q and A!

19/11/2023

Exciting News! The moment we've all been waiting for is finally here—the Q&A episode of the third series of 'Teaching My Cat to Read' has officially dropped! 📚 If you've ever wondered about the literary preferences of our feline friend or had burning questions about your favorite books, this episode is a must-listen. Did your question make it into the mix? There's only one way to find out—tune in now on your preferred podcast platform! 🎧

A heartfelt thank you to each and every one of our incredible listeners. Your support has made this series an extraordinary journey, and we couldn't be more grateful. You truly are the cat's meow in our bookish world! 🙏

But the excitement doesn't end there. Our website is now a treasure trove of past episodes, neatly sorted by author, inviting you to embark on a nostalgic literary adventure. Whether you're a dedicated follower or a newcomer, there's a wealth of stories waiting for you. Dive into the world of words with us and explore the diverse landscapes created by your favorite authors.

As we wrap up this series, we want to express our deepest gratitude for the engaging questions, the shared enthusiasm for books, and the joy of connecting with fellow bibliophiles. Your participation has added a special touch to 'Teaching My Cat to Read,' making it a community-driven experience.

Don't miss the chance to be part of this literary celebration! Join us in unraveling the mysteries, exploring the narratives, and reveling in the magic of books. Listen, enjoy, and share the bookish love. Let's continue this adventure together! 🚀

15/11/2023

Hey there, fellow book enthusiasts! Get ready to immerse yourself in the mysterious world of "The Hound of the Baskervilles." 🕵️‍♂️ We've just dropped a fresh episode on 'Teaching My Cat to Read,' where we're dissecting the spine-chilling atmosphere of those eerie moors and diving deep into how Dr. Watson steps up in Sherlock Holmes's absence. 🎙️ It's a rollercoaster of suspense and deduction that you won't want to miss! Want to join the literary conversation? Hit the link in our bio for the full scoop. 📖

And here's the deal: we want to know YOUR favorite detective novel! 🕵️ Drop a comment below telling us about the detective story that kept you up all night. Whether it's a classic like Holmes or a hidden gem, we're all ears. Let's turn this post into a detective book club – because who doesn't love discovering a gripping mystery? 🔍 Don't be shy; share your thoughts! 💬

15/11/2023

Embark on a literary escapade with our latest blog post as we unravel the timeless mysteries of three classic Sherlock Holmes adventures: "A Scandal in Bohemia," "A Study in Scarlet," and "The Hound of the Baskervilles." Join the discussion on the 'Teaching My Cat to Read' podcast, where we delve into the brilliance of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's master detective. From Holmes's deductive prowess to the intricate plots and unforgettable characters, these tales continue to shape the landscape of detective fiction. Explore the impact on popular culture and discover why Sherlock Holmes remains an enduring icon. Let the intrigue begin, and let's decode the magic together!...

Embark on a literary escapade with our latest blog post as we unravel the timeless mysteries of three classic Sherlock Holmes adventures: “A Scandal in Bohemia,” “A Study in Scarl…

13/11/2023

Hey bookworms! Guess what? The latest episode on 'Teaching Our Cat to Read' is all about diving into the epic world of Sherlock Holmes. We just wrapped up exploring the mysterious moors of Dartmoor with 'The Hound of the Baskervilles,' and let us tell you, it's a wild ride with Holmes and Watson. Ready to jump into the convo? Hit play on your fave podcast platform now! Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don't forget to tag a fellow book lover. Let the detective journey roll! 🎙️

By the way, we've had some thrilling reads on the podcast, including 'A Scandal in Bohemia' and 'A Study in Scarlet.' If you haven't checked those out yet, they're waiting for you to hit play! 📖🎧"

12/11/2023

Venturing into the chilling moors of Dartmoor, where shadows dance and eerie legends come to life. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's 'The Hound of the Baskervilles' is a timeless masterpiece of suspense and deduction. Join us on this literary journey as we follow the brilliant detective, Sherlock Holmes, and his trusted friend, Dr. Watson, in their quest to unravel the secrets behind the ominous hound's curse. From the treacherous Grimpen Mire to the ancestral Baskerville Hall, this gripping tale weaves a web of intrigue that has captivated readers for generations. Prepare for a thrilling ride through the fog and mystery!

Listen to the episode over on our page

10/11/2023

"🎙️ Embark on a literary adventure with us in the latest episode of 'Teaching Our Cat to Read,' where we journey into the mysterious world crafted by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle in 'The Hound of the Baskervilles.' As we dive into the intricacies of the moors, the brilliance of Sherlock Holmes, and the timeless allure of Baskerville Hall, join us in unraveling the layers of suspense and deduction. 🌫️🕵️‍♂️ Whether you're a seasoned Sherlockian or a curious reader, this episode promises to be a delightful exploration of one of literature's most iconic mysteries. 📖😺 Don't forget to grab your headphones and let the pages come to life! After listening, share your thoughts in the comments below—have you read 'The Hound of the Baskervilles'? We'd love to hear your insights and discuss the twists and turns of this classic tale. "

09/11/2023

Have you listened to our latest episode yet? It’s all about The Hound of the Baskervilles by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle!

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/teaching-my-cat-to-read/id1531004147?i=1000633730705

https://open.spotify.com/episode/0Rri4zyJd18NgUPOhiRd7P?si=GTQP1SW8Tva3MKI6joie5w

05/11/2023

For our final book review of series 3 join us as we discuss the Sherlock Holmes story “The Hound of the Baskervilles” by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Featuring haunted moors, Scooby-Doo villainy, the John Watson defence squad, and some dogs (no cats). For our other episodes featuring Sherlock Holmes, including “Study in Scarlet”, see our podcast episodes page. Content Warnings Murder, death of animals, brief mention of phrenology

For our final book review of series 3 join us as we discuss the Sherlock Holmes story “The Hound of the Baskervilles” by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Featuring haunted moors, Scooby-Doo villainy, the Jo…

05/11/2023

In our last full book review for series 3, we go back to the world of Sherlock and Watson with the novel "The Hound of the Baskervilles".

"Sir Charles Baskerville is dead. His body was discovered on the grounds of his Devonshire estate, face frozen in fright, not far from the footprints of a large beast. The cause of death has been determined to be a heart attack, but family legend tells another tale, and Detective Sherlock Holmes is determined to uncover the truth.

So whodunit on the foggy moors of Baskerville Hall? In one of literature’s greatest original page-turners, the answer is a classic.

AmazonClassics brings you timeless works from the masters of storytelling. Ideal for anyone who wants to read a great work for the first time or rediscover an old favorite, these new editions open the door to literature’s most unforgettable characters and beloved worlds." - Goodreads summary

Check out the episode on your podcast platform by using the link in our bio or clicking through our stories!

31/10/2023

Welcome to our podcast's deep dive into gothic and Halloween-themed literature. We'll take you on a chilling journey from the satirical shadows of Jane Austen's "Northanger Abbey", Bram Stoker's classic "Dracula", Mary Shelley's thought-provoking "Frankenstein", the genre-starting "The Castle of Otranto" by Horace Walpole, to the futuristic gloom of "Gideon the Ninth" by Tamsyn Muir. Join us as we dissect these works, unravel their mysteries and celebrate the eerie allure of their timeless tales. Get ready for a spine-tingling adventure into the world of Gothic fiction....

Welcome to our podcast’s deep dive into gothic and Halloween-themed literature. We’ll take you on a chilling journey from the satirical shadows of Jane Austen’s “Northanger …

31/10/2023

🕷️ Embrace the allure of Gothic literature as we journey through Halloween-themed tales. Join our podcast for eerie storytelling, chilling mysteries, and timeless classics.

"Northanger Abbey" by Jane Austen
📜 Delight in the playful satire as Jane Austen blends Gothic elements with her signature wit. Explore courtship and suspense in our podcast episode.

"Dracula" by Bram Stoker
🦇 Sink your teeth into the classic vampire lore. Discover Bram Stoker's dark narrative and its enduring appeal in our podcast discussion.

"Frankenstein" by Mary Shelley
🧪 Explore the science of horror and the price of ambition. Unpack the ethical dilemmas within Mary Shelley's masterpiece in our podcast.

"The Castle of Otranto" by Horace Walpole
🏰 Journey to the Gothic roots where curses, secrets, and the supernatural reign. Explore the pioneering work that birthed Gothic literature in our podcast.

"Gideon the Ninth" by Tamsyn Muir
🪶 Venture into a genre-blending world of space and necromancy. Dive into the unique Gothic-SF fusion with our podcast.

Our Gothic Journey Unfolds
📖 From satire to chills and beyond, our Gothic expedition has unveiled the enduring magic of Halloween-themed literature. Join us on this haunting journey.

Join the Adventure!
🔔 Subscribe to our podcast for more spine-tingling tales.
🤝 Connect with us on social media and our website to discuss, share, and immerse yourself in the enchantment of storytelling. Step into the darkness with us.

29/10/2023

Have you listened to our latest episode on the first Locked Tomb Series "Gideon the Ninth@ by Tamsyn Muir?

Our short review: "If you haven't read this book, just go and read it. Its amazing!"

"The Emperor needs necromancers.

The Ninth Necromancer needs a swordswoman.

Gideon has a sword, some dirty magazines, and no more time for undead bu****it.

Brought up by unfriendly, ossifying nuns, ancient retainers, and countless skeletons, Gideon is ready to abandon a life of servitude and an afterlife as a reanimated co**se. She packs up her sword, her shoes, and her dirty magazines, and prepares to launch her daring escape. But her childhood nemesis won't set her free without a service.

Harrowhark Nonagesimus, Reverend Daughter of the Ninth House and bone witch extraordinaire, has been summoned into action. The Emperor has invited the heirs to each of his loyal Houses to a deadly trial of wits and skill. If Harrowhark succeeds she will become an immortal, all-powerful servant of the Resurrection, but no necromancer can ascend without their cavalier. Without Gideon's sword, Harrow will fail, and the Ninth House will die.

Of course, some things are better left dead." - Goodreads Summary

28/10/2023

Have you listened to our latest episode yet on Gideon the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir?

Listen with the links below!

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/teaching-my-cat-to-read/id1531004147?i=1000632167933

https://open.spotify.com/episode/1JSAPSMOH6Is9I8HlH0aq8?si=bO9e3eSkR56CRWQTeNqcvw

25/10/2023

"The Emperor needs necromancers.

The Ninth Necromancer needs a swordswoman.

Gideon has a sword, some dirty magazines, and no more time for undead bu****it.

Brought up by unfriendly, ossifying nuns, ancient retainers, and countless skeletons, Gideon is ready to abandon a life of servitude and an afterlife as a reanimated co**se. She packs up her sword, her shoes, and her dirty magazines, and prepares to launch her daring escape. But her childhood nemesis won't set her free without a service.

Harrowhark Nonagesimus, Reverend Daughter of the Ninth House and bone witch extraordinaire, has been summoned into action. The Emperor has invited the heirs to each of his loyal Houses to a deadly trial of wits and skill. If Harrowhark succeeds she will become an immortal, all-powerful servant of the Resurrection, but no necromancer can ascend without their cavalier. Without Gideon's sword, Harrow will fail, and the Ninth House will die.

Of course, some things are better left dead." - Goodreads summary

If you haven't read this book. You should. Then listen to our episode about it.

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22/10/2023

Explore the mysterious narrative of Tamsyn Muir's novel "Gideon the Ninth" in a literary journey through a realm of necromancers, blurred lines between life and death, and secrets hidden within the decaying Canaan House. Find out what we think about this cross between sci-fi, fantasy and gothic horror in this episode.

Explore the mysterious narrative of Tamsyn Muir’s novel “Gideon the Ninth” in a literary journey through a realm of necromancers, blurred lines between life and death, and secrets…

22/10/2023

"I LOVED THIS BOOK" - anyone who has read this book. Probably.

This book is the first in the "Locked Tomb" series by Tamsyn Muir - and we all thought it was brilliant. Listen to the full episode to hear our thoughts on this book!

"The Emperor needs necromancers.

The Ninth Necromancer needs a swordswoman.

Gideon has a sword, some dirty magazines, and no more time for undead bu****it.

Brought up by unfriendly, ossifying nuns, ancient retainers, and countless skeletons, Gideon is ready to abandon a life of servitude and an afterlife as a reanimated co**se. She packs up her sword, her shoes, and her dirty magazines, and prepares to launch her daring escape. But her childhood nemesis won't set her free without a service.

Harrowhark Nonagesimus, Reverend Daughter of the Ninth House and bone witch extraordinaire, has been summoned into action. The Emperor has invited the heirs to each of his loyal Houses to a deadly trial of wits and skill. If Harrowhark succeeds she will become an immortal, all-powerful servant of the Resurrection, but no necromancer can ascend without their cavalier. Without Gideon's sword, Harrow will fail, and the Ninth House will die.

Of course, some things are better left dead." - Goodreads summary

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11/10/2023

Have you read Emma by Jane Austen?

We read it for the most recent episode of our podcast! You can find all the links to listen via the link in our bio :)

"Beautiful, clever, rich—and single—Emma Woodhouse is perfectly content with her life and sees no need for either love or marriage. Nothing, however, delights her more than interfering in the romantic lives of others. But when she ignores the warnings of her good friend Mr. Knightley and attempts to arrange a suitable match for her protegee Harriet Smith, her carefully laid plans soon unravel and have consequences that she never expected. With its imperfect but charming heroine and its witty and subtle exploration of relationships, Emma is often seen as Jane Austen’s most flawless work." - Goodreads.

10/10/2023

We've added another Austen to our episodes this week with the release of our episode about "Emma"!

So far on the podcast we have already read 4 of Austen's books: Persuasion, Pride and Prejudice, Northanger Abbey and now Emma! Have you read any of these books?

You can find all the links to listen to the episodes via the link in our bio,or check out our Author page on our website!

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09/10/2023

Check out our latest episode which is all about Emma by Jane Austen...

Check out our latest episode which is all about Emma by Jane Austen

08/10/2023

We've stepped back in time to the Regency era with our latest podcast episode, diving into the enchanting world of Jane Austen's 'Emma.' From matchmaking mishaps to witty social commentary, we've explored every delightful twist and turn in this classic novel. Join us in our discussion of love, manners, and Emma's journey of self-discovery. Have you read 'Emma'? Share your thoughts and favorite moments in the comments below!