French writer Theophile Gautier dabbled in virtually every literary genre imaginable over the course of his varied career. In this thought-provoking and finely wrought collection of autobiographical essays, Gautier offers some fascinating nuggets about his lifestyle, friends and—most notably—his relationship to animals, particularly dogs and horses.

The Marvelous Land of Oz is the second book in Baum's Oz series. The series chronicles the further adventures of Dorothy both in and out of Oz, as she deals with the characters, situations and desires which continue to spill over from her first fateful adventure.

Greg Iles joins the Professional Book Nerds podcast to discuss his bestselling Natchez Burning series, his experiences as a writer of the south, and dealing with his problems head on.

Julie McElwain joins the Professional Book Nerds podcast to chat about her book A Murder in Time, OverDrive's Big Library Read program, and writing about soap operas for a living.

Leigh Bardugo joins the Professional Book Nerds podcast to discuss her bestselling Six of Crows duology, how she used fantasy stories as an escape as a child, and what it's like having devoted fans who are obsessed with her characters.

America's Librarian, Nancy Pearl, joins the Professional Book Nerds podcast to discuss her book George & Lizzie, libraries, and offers up some book recommendations.

New York Times bestselling author Kerri Maniscalco joins the Professional Book Nerds podcast to discuss her Hunting Prince Dracula series, growing up in a haunted house, and embrassing her fears through writing.