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In episode 3 of our new podcast, we go deep into Japanese culture with moving novels, an autobio graphic novel, and a look at all things geeky. Then we chat with graphic novelist Tillie Walden about her love of manga.

In Japan, comics are known as manga. They're used to tell stories in every genre, and are read by people of all ages. We're delighted to have cartoonist Tille Walden share her top picks for readers who are new to the form.

From the neon-lit streets of Tokyo to the bucolic countryside, and contemporary plots to tales from history, Japan's culture — and pop culture — are inspiration for stories that move, inform, entertain, and surprise us.

Thanks to the heat of the kitchen and friendship forged during the dinner rush, restaurants are a rich setting for tasty stories. In episode 2 of our new podcast, we take a big bite of books about restaurants. Bon appetit!

The heat of a restaurant kitchen is a delicious catalyst for the drama inherent in professional rivalry, found family, true love, and everything in between. There's nothing quite like food to bring people together.

Big day! The first episode of the Strong Sense of Place podcast is out! We're celebrating Prague. It's the capital of the Czech Republic and home of the world's best beer, stunning architecture, and plenty of ghosts.

Soft light illuminates floor-to-ceiling shelves of gilt-spined books in the libraries of the Strahov Monastery. But it's not all Latin texts and antique globes: a narwhal horn and a giant crab decorate the hallway.

Prague's stunning architecture and magical atmosphere make it one of Europe's must-visit cities. But we love it because it's full of stories. Everywhere you look, there's a tale to be told, a mystery to unravel.

This weekend, we recommend a getaway to Bulgaria... where you'll visit the capital city, explore mystical hilltop monasteries, get caught up in the secret histories of two world wars, and fall in love.

Every Friday, we share our favorite book- and travel-related links. This week, we've got inspiring travel journals, watchful Romanian houses, dinner in a London tube car, Dick Francis' heroes and heroines, and more.

The trailer for our podcast is live! In this mini-episode, we talk about what the phrase 'strong sense of place' means to us, why we started this show, our no-spoiler guarantee, and why we think you'll love the podcast.

Anne Bogel has excellent taste in books, and her podcast 'What Should I Read Next?' is a must-listen around our house. She took on our challenge and recommended six genre-spanning books for armchair travelers.