Book Buzz

Episode 151
Air date: April 26, 2026

JESSICA:

Hi, this is Jessica Russell. I’m the assistant director of collection services at Sno-Isle Libraries. And welcome to Book Buzz.

Today's two reading recommendations are “King Sorrow” by Joe Hill and “The Midnight Taxi” by Yosha Gunasekera.

First, we’re going to hear from Danielle, library associate at the Mariner Library, for a multi-genre story of six friends who are forced to make a dark sacrifice every year. Over to you, Danielle.

DANIELLE:

When it comes to my reading habits, dragons are usually a red flag. I don’t read fantasy, and the presence of dragons is a sure sign that I’ll pass on a book. This is why I hesitated to read author Joe Hill’s latest novel, “King Sorrow.” Now, after immersing myself in its 800 pages, I’m grateful to whatever magical force drove me to read it after all.

Initially, we meet Arthur Oakes, a solemn and rule-abiding college librarian whose life is the furthest thing from fantasy. When Arthur faces a threat to his strict moral code, he calls on his fiercely loyal friend group that happens to share a passion for the supernatural. It is through the efforts of the group that the dragon King Sorrow is summoned into reality.

Like many mortals, Arthur and his friends are eager to find a quick solution to their problem. King Sorrow is conveniently able to offer them such a deal. Once the threat to Arthur has been eliminated, the dragon has only one demand: a yearly human sacrifice, chosen by Arthur and his friends.

Readers of many genres will be captivated by “King Sorrow.” It’s a book that is not quite fantasy, borders on horror, surprises you with its humor, and is softened by a streak of romance. Don’t let the dragon scare you; it’s well worth the read.

JESSICA:

Thanks, Danielle! Fun fact: Author Joe Hill's father is the renowned horror author Stephen King. Captivating storytelling definitely runs in the family.

Next, let’s hear from Edmonds Librarian Kat for a story that takes us through the streets of New York to find a murderer. Go ahead, Kat.

KAT:

Mystery fans, “The Midnight Taxi” by Yosha Gunasekera is for you! Siriwathi Perera “Siri” is a 20-something Sri Lankan taxi driver in New York City. She spends much of her time listening to true crime podcasts while driving around the city and its boroughs.

A chance meeting with Amara, a Sri Lankan defense attorney happens at the perfect time, because later that same night a passenger in Siri’s taxi is stabbed to death on the way to JFK and Siri is the prime suspect. Siri and her now court appointed defense attorney Amara have only five days to clear her name, but someone is threatening them at every turn.

Yosha Gunasekera’s debut novel explores the immigrant experience, and especially the challenges for female immigrants of color. Gunasekera takes us on a virtual tour of New York City and offers plenty of tasty food references along the way. As a resident herself she doesn’t hold back on describing the ugly and the beautiful sides of the city. She also gives us a peek at the criminal justice system and the lives of service workers in NYC.

The epilogue lets us know there will be more chances to follow Siri’s journey ahead. Stay tuned.

JESSICA:

Thanks, Kat! Hard to believe this is a debut novel. Can't wait to see more from this author.

Our recommendations this week are: “King Sorrow” by Joe Hill and “The Midnight Taxi” by Yosha Gunasekera.

Join us next time, when we’ll explore more great reading recommendations — interesting books you can find at your favorite local bookstore or at your local library.

Until then, I’m Jessica Russell from Sno-Isle Libraries.

Thanks for joining us for Book Buzz on KSER.