820: I Can Read It!
The Incomparable's 2026 Awards Book Club dives into three challenging Hugo and Nebula nominees, revealing a stark contrast between readability and emotional resonance. 'When We Were Real' by Daryl Gregory emerges as the most accessible—its simulation premise and quirky anomalies make it a surprisingly smooth summer read, though the lack of a satisfying conclusion leaves some craving deeper meaning. 'Sour Cherry' by Natalia Theodoradou, a dark fairy tale riff on Bluebeard, is universally criticized for its repetitive, emotionally draining cycle of abuse, with panelists calling it a novel that overstays its welcome despite its thematic ambition. The most divisive is 'The Buffalo Hunter Hunter' by Stephen Graham Jones, a layered horror epic about a vampire’s generational vengeance tied to colonial violence. While its historical depth and metaphorical power resonate with some, the relentless body horror, stilted prose, and multiple narrative layers alienate others. The episode ends with a shared exhaustion—and a grim acknowledgment: books that challenge us aren’t always enjoyable, but they’re often necessary.
When We Were Real is a readable, accessible sci-fi road trip that embraces existential ambiguity—perfect for readers who value momentum over revelation.
Sour Cherry’s repetitive structure and unrelenting depiction of abuse make it a difficult read, even for fans of dark fairy tales.
The Buffalo Hunter Hunter’s layered narrative and historical allegory are powerful, but its body horror and stylistic choices alienate readers who dislike the genre.
The book club’s experience highlights that not every nominated book needs to be liked to be valuable—some books are important precisely because they’re hard to read.
Daryl Gregory’s writing is consistently readable, making him a standout in a year of challenging reads.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Welcome to the 2026 Awards Book Club
Jason Snell introduces the second episode of the 2026 Hugo and Nebula Awards Book Club, setting the tone for a challenging but rewarding journey through three new nominees. The panelists express exhaustion and mixed emotions about the reading load.
When We Were Real: A Readable Simulation Road Trip
“I can read it. Raves Jason Snow. Oh yeah, put that on the back cover, please.”
Sour Cherry: A Repetitive Cycle of Abuse
“I found it depressing and slow and long and it just hurt my soul a little bit really.”
The Buffalo Hunter Hunter: Layers of Horror and History
“I really struggled with this book because of the, I don't do well with body horror with very, very few exceptions.”
Looking Ahead: The Final Stretch of the Book Club
Jason wraps up the episode by announcing the next three books—'A Drop of Corruption,' 'The Everlasting,' and 'The Raven Scholar'—and teases a future episode on short fiction. The panel reflects on the emotional toll of the journey.
“I really struggled with this book because of the, I don't do well with body horror with very, very few exceptions.”
“I found it depressing and slow and long and it just hurt my soul a little bit really.”
“And like what I feel like the book's trying to do, I just want to say, I get it. Stop. I get it. Why is this still going?”
Host
Guests
The Incomparable
media
Daryl Gregory
person
Stephen Graham Jones
person
Natalia Theodoradou
person
Bluebeard
other
The Spoonbenders
book
The 13th Floor
media
Hugo Awards
other
Nebula Awards
other
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