Scary, Funny Books and Finding Light in Hard Seasons with Theory Knight (E195)
In today’s episode, I’m chatting with Theory Knight—a sci-fi lover, aspiring pilot, and thoughtful storyteller with a deep love of humor, humanity, and connection. Theory dreams of flying someday, loves Hawaii, and believes in the therapeutic value of road trips. She’s only organized because of technology, is thankful for good vacuum cleaners, and would absolutely rent an apartment inside Canadian Tire if they’d let her.
We’re here today to discuss her new book, Jingle Bells, Sasquatch Smells, and the stories that help reset our nervous systems—especially during hard seasons. Theory’s reading life leans toward what she calls scary, funny books: stories that hold darkness with humor and leave you feeling more grateful for what you have.
Episode Highlights:
What Canadian Tire is (for those of us who didn’t grow up with it).
Why being among others during hard times can be incredibly grounding.
How humor helps us sit with scary or uncomfortable moments.
Setting boundaries with dark books and knowing your limits.
The sci-fi stories that shaped Theory’s reading life.
Writing with intention and bringing only what you truly love into a book.
Working creatively with a spouse (her husband is her cover designer, go check them out).
Connect with Theory:
Books and authors mentioned in the episode:
Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card
Dungeon Crawler Carl by Matt Dinniman
Book Flight
The Street Lawyer by John Grisham
All My Puny Sorrows by Miriam Toews
Jingle Bells, Sasquatch Smells by Theory Knight
This episode is sponsored by Haven, a new imprint dedicated to romances with all the swoon and none of the spice. If you love celebrity romances, second chances at love, and books that will make you laugh and cry, pick up Even After This BY Deborah Clack. And for the historical romance girls, read A DEAL WITH A DEBUTANTE for a he-falls-first marriage of convenience that is both hilarious and swoony. Follow Haven on social media and sign up for their newsletter on their website for exclusive giveaways, sneak peeks, and more.
The 2026 Bookish Flights Reading Challenge is here—a simple, nostalgic way to be intentional with your reading. One book per month, with options for individuals and families. Download it at https://www.bookishflights.com/read/2026readingchallenge
