Publisher’s Picks for October 2024
Hi Readers! Happy October. I’m excited to share this month’s picks: a fantastic indie short fiction book, the bad-ass tarot deck I just bought, the quirky indie bookshop I found it at, the zine creator I’m obsessed with, and three shows I’m streaming. Let’s dive in.
Publisher’s Picks: October 2024
Last week, I visited my hometown in Eastern Washington—Spokane—a city celebrated for its vibrant display of all four seasons. Coming from the intense Arizona heat, the crisp fall air was a much-needed respite. October feels like the perfect time to explore the mysterious and unconventional. Here’s what’s sparking joy and creativity for me this month.
What I’m Reading
I want the UP Blog to be a space that promotes and champions indie books—whether they’re self-published or from independent presses. Honestly, I’d love to personally read exclusively indie titles. They hold untold stories, fresh voices, and bold perspectives that push boundaries in ways mainstream books often don’t. But, of course, I’m just as susceptible to the corporate publishing machine as anyone. The big-name titles by bestselling authors, the constant direct and indirect marketing and promotions—it’s hard not to reach for the books that are placed strategically in our faces. And, let’s face it, they can be really good.
This month, I got halfway through (the not indie) Life After Life by Kate Atkinson—Ursula Todd lives and dies repeatedly throughout the 20th century. Atkinson’s writing makes you question all the ‘what ifs’ in life. It’s the perfect strange, surreal read as the days grow shorter; I am loving it. Once I’m done, I’ll dive into its spin-off/companion, A God in Ruins.
That said, my goal is to spotlight indie gems that inspire me as a reader. They’re the stories that stick with me, grow me, and remind me why I love reading. Hopefully, by sharing them, I encourage readers to explore these and other powerful independent works. Sometimes, that takes a little intentionality.
When AI Makes You Spell It Out
Before my return flight to Phoenix, I asked ChatGPT for an indie book recommendation with similar vibes to Life After Life. I figured I could start something on the plane and tell you all about it later. What followed was more of a struggle than I expected. We went back and forth, and after a 1,051-word conversation (yes, I tracked), I was finally pointed in the right direction. Here’s how ChatGPT summarized the whole exchange:
When asked for an indie recommendation similar to Life After Life, I initially suggested The First Fifteen Lives of Harry August by Claire North, which had thematic similarities but was published by an imprint of a major publisher. After clarifying that the request was for a book from a truly independent press, I recommended The Psychology of Time Travel by Kate Mascarenhas, which fit the criteria. When more recommendations were requested, I mistakenly suggested titles from publishers tied to larger houses. Upon further clarification, I provided titles from independent presses, including The Archive of Alternate Endings by Lindsey Drager and The Revisionaries by A.R. Moxon, which aligned with the original request.
—OpenAI. (2024). ChatGPT [Large language model]. https://chatgpt.com
As even the all-knowing AI kept nudging me toward titles from the big publishing houses, I wondered if there was a hidden agenda there🤷🏻. Usually, ChatGPT gets me, but this time, I had to work for it.
Indie Title Recommendation
The Archive of Alternate Endings by Lindsey Drager (Dzanc Books)
I finished The Archive of Alternate Endings by Lindsey Drager in two sittings and about four hours. This book is a historical, magical, ecological, queer, literary, poetic, beautiful love story for siblings and other humans. It was a pleasure to read, even out loud; I finished the last several pages aloud to my partner this morning.
Drager ties together multiple timelines between 1378 and 2365, focusing on stories during documented and future passages of Halley’s Comet. Her lyrical prose explores parallel lives and storytelling in a smart, introspective, and speculative way.
For more insight, Nate D’s review on Goodreads explains better than I can how Drager intertwines the Hansel and Gretel fairytale with universal experiences of loss and survival. He notes that what could have been a purely intellectual exercise instead becomes an emotionally charged narrative full of yearning and grief, with characters and stories scattered across time but deeply connected.
If you enjoy novels that demand a bit of creative effort, snuggle up with this thoughtful and captivating exploration of time, space, and human connection.
Dzanc Books publishes innovative, daring literary fiction. Their catalog offers titles that push boundaries and offer fresh perspectives. This month’s pick, The Archive of Alternate Endings, is just one example of their excellent contributions to the indie scene.
Tarot & Me
I finally bought my very own tarot deck. It feels strange to admit, but I never owned a deck myself. Growing up, I was taught that tarot and all things metaphysical were evil or “worldly.” Now, I see them simply as a way to understand life’s twists and turns.
I am familiar with various decks, and I’m nearly finished with the layout and design for the upcoming Altered Tarot deck, so I wondered if that would end up being my first.
If you read last month’s picks, you already know how much I love the Big Bug Gospel deck, which is running a new Kickstarter campaign after the first didn’t get funded.
So, how is it that I never owned a deck until now? The truth is, I’ve always been intuitive but not particularly spiritual. I don’t believe in divinity, and I never thought of tarot as something I needed for myself. I’ve always loved card games, but only recently learned that tarot was traditionally used to play games—and I have yet to actually play a game with any deck.
I Digress
In therapy, I took a character strengths survey that revealed my top five strengths (out of 24)—my therapist encourages me to “lean into” these when making decisions or regulating emotions. For example, he’ll ask me to reflect on how kindness and generosity might shape my approach to a situation. This practice reminds me of tarot—where you lean into the themes of the cards you’re working with, drawing strength and understanding from interacting with them.
I mentioned this parallel to my therapist, noting how both practices involve asking traits for guidance. He was quick to disagree, and honestly, I wasn’t in the mood to defend tarot at the time. But the more I’ve thought about it, the more I feel my observation was valid. Tarot cards, like the character strengths survey, are tools to navigate the universal experiences we face in life.
Sure, the survey pinpoints traits specific to me, while tarot taps into broader archetypes, but it’s essentially the same process—and the goal is the same: to reflect and navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity.
My First Tarot Deck
So, what deck did I pick out? I chose The Next World Tarot by Cristy C. Road. Published by Silver Sprocket, this deck is a spectacular visual representation of justice, love, and reclaiming identity. It’s bold, unapologetic, and exactly what I was looking for.
From the Publisher
Featuring body outlaws, endangered cultures, and anti-colonial belief systems, THE NEXT WORLD TAROT envisions a world where justice relies on respect and revolutionary love.
The Fool’s Journey is about smashing systematic oppression, owning their truths, being accountable to the people and places that support them, and taking back a connection to their body that may have been lost through trauma or societal brainwashing.
The NEXT WORLD TAROT is a visual spectacle of both the battle cry and the re-connection between outcasts and their criminalized identities.
A Peak at the Death Card
The Death Card pairs with October’s shift into darker, colder days. Despite its name, Death is about change and letting go to make space for new growth.
The Death Card from the Next World Tarot symbolizes transformation and rebirth. A figure sits confidently atop a white horse, echoing traditional depictions but with a modern, rebellious twist, exuding strength. The figure seems to approach death as part of the natural cycle rather than something to fear.
Skulls and bones in the dirt symbolize the end of one phase and the fertile ground for new beginnings. The soft-hued sky suggests the dawn of a new day, while the figure’s umbrella adds a whimsical touch, offering hope and protection amid change.
The guidebook quote, “Death is a toxic ending and a whimsical rebirth,” encapsulates the card’s message: endings may be painful, but they pave the way for growth and new opportunities. The card’s vibrant, dynamic art reflects the Next World Tarot‘s radical spirit, celebrating resilience, diversity, and the reclaiming of identity during times of transition.
If you don’t already follow Altered Tarot on Instagram, you are missing out. Take a look at the incredible photograph and poem paired to create the Death Card for the upcoming deck.
The featured photograph and poem paired with the Death Card evoke the natural cycle of life and death. The image of a bird’s skeletal remains symbolizes how even in death, there is purpose—the body returns nutrients to the earth, feeding new life. The accompanying poem further emphasizes the idea that, even after death, there is continued service and utility.
The upright meaning of the Death Card focuses on transformation and letting go, highlighting the importance of release as a vital step toward growth. The reversed meaning serves as a warning, reminding us that resisting change or holding onto what no longer serves us can hinder our progress. Together, the imagery, text, and meaning of the Death Card offer a profound reflection on how embracing endings allows us to welcome new beginnings.
Indie Bookshop Pick
I picked my Next World Tarot deck up at Giant Nerd Books—if you find yourself in Spokane, I can’t recommend visiting this store enough. It’s packed with hidden gems, and you’ll probably leave with something unexpected.
Featured Creative Account: Pocket Thoughts
This month, I’m spotlighting Pocket Thoughts, a delightful Instagram account and Etsy shop I’ve been following for a while now. It’s run by Ryan, who describes himself as “a swell dude” in his bio, and I totally agree.
When I saw an ad for ten zines for ten dollars, I jumped at the chance. The experience of getting the zines in the mail was as fun as I had hoped. Nine of the ten zines were beautifully printed in full color on high-quality paper and stapled together in a traditional zine format. The tenth zine was a clever creation folded from a single sheet of paper—showcasing the creative flexibility zines offer.
I’ve been into zines for a while now. I’m fascinated by their roots in alternative culture, DIY ethos, and underground movements. One of the books on my to-be-read list is Notes from Underground: Zines and the Politics of Alternative Culture by Stephen Duncombe, which dives into the history and impact of zines on countercultural movements.
I hope to incorporate the rawness and authenticity of zines into Unencumbered Press over time. The idea of creating zines that reflect our values and the voices we amplify excites me—small, tangible ways to share creativity and ideas with the world.
If you’re into quirky, thoughtful artwork with a whimsical touch, you should check out Pocket Thoughts on Instagram. Ryan’s shop on Etsy offers prints, journals, and stationery full of creativity and charm. These pieces make perfect gifts as the holiday season approaches—or even to treat yourself to something playful and unique.
What I’m Watching in October
I am indulging in some eerie, thought-provoking series that fit the spooky October mood.
- From
This tense, atmospheric series comes from the creators of Lost, and I can’t help but wonder if, by the end, they’ll declare “Punked” and tease us for sticking with yet another strange show that might go nowhere. But despite that, I’m hooked. The premise is intriguing: characters who pass by a certain tree in the road find themselves trapped in a mysterious town where monsters emerge after sunset. The residents must fight for survival while trying to unravel the town’s dark secrets. If you’re into shows that keep you on edge and craving answers, From is worth a watch. Streaming on MGM+.
- The Mosquito Coast
Justin Theroux stars in The Mosquito Coast, a series based on his uncle Paul Theroux’s novel. It follows the Fox family as they escape the U.S. government and try to start over in Latin America. Though the show was canceled after two seasons, it still manages to weave in plenty of suspense and survivalism. While I didn’t enjoy the audiobook, I found the series compelling—despite Allie Fox’s character being hard to root for. His obsessive, often toxic behavior puts his family at risk, and the portrayal of indigenous people is problematic. That said, the tension between family dynamics and survival made it worth the watch. Streaming on Apple TV+.
- The Leftovers
Though it originally aired a few years ago, The Leftovers remains one of the most powerful explorations of loss, existence, and the mysteries of life. Based on the novel by Tom Perrotta, the series is set in a world where 2% of the global population has mysteriously disappeared. I didn’t realize Justin Theroux stars in The Leftovers too until one night I was watching one or the other and got confused. The two series have years between them, but it’s kind of funny to see him in both. The Leftovers is one of the most haunting stories—it explores grief, existential questions, and the randomness of life. The show digs deep into human emotions and offers no easy answers, making it an ideal watch for the introspective side of October. Streaming on HBO Max.
These series have kept me entertained and contemplative and are ideal for anyone looking for a mix of eerie vibes and thought-provoking stories this October.
What I’m Listening To
As I finish writing this post, Tracy Chapman’s debut album plays in the background. I’ve had it for as long as I can remember—first on cassette, then CD, and now streaming—and it’s one of those timeless collections that continue to shape not just me but new generations of activists.
Chapman’s music serves as a grounding force for anyone pushing for change, reminding us that the struggle for equality and self-awareness remains urgent. Her songs tackle powerful, timeless themes that resonate deeply with social justice movements and personal introspection, including:
- Social and Economic Inequality: Songs like “Talkin’ ‘Bout a Revolution” focus on class struggle, the fight for equality, and the rising discontent among the marginalized.
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Consumerism and Materialism: “Mountains O’ Things” directly critiques the pursuit of material wealth and the emptiness that often follows. Chapman contrasts the desire for more with the peace that comes from focusing on what truly matters in life.
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Racial Injustice: Chapman also addresses issues of race and discrimination, particularly in tracks like “Across the Lines,” which explores the divide created by systemic racism and violence.
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Love and Relationships: The album touches on complex emotional themes surrounding love and human connection, with songs like “Baby Can I Hold You” and “For My Lover” offering a raw and intimate portrayal of longing, forgiveness, and sacrifice.
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Identity and Personal Struggle: Several tracks delve into self-discovery and personal battles, reflecting on the human condition and the search for meaning in an unjust world. “Fast Car,” one of her most iconic songs, powerfully captures themes of escape and the desire for a better life.
This blend of introspective themes and bold social commentary gives the album its enduring power, making it a source of inspiration for activists and listeners alike, generation after generation.
That’s it for my October picks! I’d love to hear what’s on your list this month—whether it’s books, music, or a new creative project. Share your favorites in the comments or on our socials.
Until next month,
