Garth

A *very* early kids fantasy story (1872!) where a primodial race of humans living underground has evolved into brutish goblins who enjoy nothing more than to cause havoc. Plenty of classic tropes: working-class boy, brave princess, fairy godmother, all working together to save the day (and the adults). I quite liked the goblin's sensitive toe-less feet, and their hatred of rhymes.

https://shows.acast.com/just-sleep-bedtime-stories-for-adults/episodes/the-princess-and-the-goblin-by-george-macdonald

A shameless rip-off of Connie Willis' time travelling historian concept, but with much more chaotic excitement. A bit too much, perhaps, and not enough historic immersion. Don't think too hard, just enjoy the ride.

Delves into the many varied & amazing ways humans & animals have evolved to depend upon microbes. Most of this was familiar to me already, though told in the author's excellent clear & awed way. New was the incredible nesting of microbes within high-order animal cells, with each doing distinct jobs, such that none can survive without the others. Yong is always good for a celebration of life & its complexity.

A girl enters a spirit wood to rid herself of her magic, but instead finds power, purpose & love. Based on Polish fairytales, so reminiscent of Katherine Arden's The Bear and the Nightingale. Fairly simple YA story with one plot line and few surprises, but well realised and doesn't take the easy way out.

[re-read] Illness is all in your head which can be overcome through fresh air & mental fortitude. Fuck that shit ... Surprised it didn't trigger me on my first read (4 stars)!

https://downtosleep.podbean.com/e/the-secret-garden-complete-audiobook-with-rain-down-to-sleep/