The Witches’ Roundtable: Samhain, Halloween History & Horror November Books

Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir

Join The Book Witches as we discuss the popular science fiction novel, Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir! We go through the book and compare it to the movie starring Ryan Gosling, which is out in theaters now. The book/movie comparison is always satisfying especially for such an adventurous and heartwarming story. Whether you've watched the movie or read the book (or both!) come sit with your favorite drink, snack or yarn project and discuss inter-species compassion with us!

Dune by Frank Herbert

In this episode of Book Witches, we journey to the desert planet of Arrakis to explore Dune by Frank Herbert: a sweeping sci-fi epic that blends politics, prophecy, ecology, and power into one unforgettable story. It's the foundation for most sci-fi books and movies, like Star Wars! We follow Paul Atreides, a young noble thrust into a dangerous world of shifting alliances, deadly betrayals, and ancient forces far beyond his control. As rival houses clash and the coveted spice melange fuels both commerce and consciousness, Paul must navigate his destiny among the mysterious Fremen and the harsh, beautiful sands of Arrakis. Join us as we break down the rich world-building, iconic characters, and big ideas that have made Dune a cornerstone of science fiction. From messianic myths to environmental warnings, we dig into what makes this novel feel just as powerful, and relevant, today. Whether you’re a longtime fan or stepping onto Arrakis for the first time, this episode will immerse you in the spice-filled saga that started it all.

The Witches’ Roundtable: Imbolc, The Start of Spring

Join The Witches' Roundtable and learn about the subtle pagan holiday of Imbolc! Translated as "In the Belly", Imbolc marks the beginning of spring and the midway point between the Winter Solstice (Yule) and the Spring Equinox (Ostara). There may still be snow on the ground, but the green buds are about to poke through the soil! We discuss new and old traditions and how you can bring in springtime, even if you're not religious or into dogma. Come learn about one of the eight sabbats that may need more attention than it gets! 📚 Books Discussed: * Imbolc - Llewellyn's Sabbat Essentials * Celebrate the Earth - Laurie Cabot

House of Leaves by Mark Z. Danielewski

In Episode 4, we descend into the shifting, unsettling labyrinth of House of Leaves by Mark Z. Danielewski. It's a novel that refuses to sit still, behave, or be easily understood. What begins as a documentary about a house that is bigger on the inside quickly spirals into something far more disturbing. Through fragmented narratives, unreliable narrators, and typographical chaos, we explore the eerie Navidson Record, Johnny Truant’s unraveling mind, and the question at the heart of it all: can you trust anything you’re reading? In this episode, we unpack the book’s most haunting moments, decode its layered structure, and talk about how fear, obsession, and isolation echo through every page. We also dive into the experience of reading House of Leaves. Why it’s so disorienting, why it lingers, and whether it’s truly horror… or something stranger. Bring a flashlight. You’re going to need it.

The Witches’ Roundtable: Samhain, Halloween History & Horror November Books

In this Witches’ Roundtable episode, we're diving into Samhain aka the Wiccan New Year, and one of the most important Sabbats on the Wheel of the Year. We explore the roots of Halloween, the history and traditions behind Samhain, and how the modern celebration blends folklore, witchcraft, and cultural evolution. Then, we round out the conversation with our horror and dark-academia–leaning book picks for November. This is part of our new on-camera series where we sit down face-to-face and talk through the Sabbats, related spirituality, and themed reading inspiration. If you want to watch this episode instead of just listening, the full video is available on our YouTube channel (Book Witches Podcast - YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@BookWitchesPodcast]). Follow along for wheel-of-the-year discussions, book recommendations, and all things witchy and literary.