iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 09/10/2026

Arlene, not only am I grateful for your contribution keeping Boring Books for Bedtime ad-free, but I can also guarantee your wish will be fulfilled. Christmas + Sears? Match made in sleepy heaven.

Screenshot from Buy Me A Coffee showing a contribution for Boring Books for Bedtime that says:

Arlene Falge bought you 3 coffees.

I am keeping my fingers crossed for a Sears Christmas Wish book reading for the holidays. :)

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 04/10/2026

Hey bakers (or @seamus.bsky.social perhaps?), HandyHusband recently revived his soudough starter from dried flakes after a slumber of five years. Rob Rye was coaxed back to life, but this is the second loaf that has come out flat. Tastes great but lacks spring. Any thoughts or experience to share?

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 25/09/2026

It's Feelgood Friday! After a week of annoyances, it's nice to pop into reviews and see lovely new comments from Boring Books for Bedtime listeners. As we approach eight (EIGHT!) years of never-missed-a-Monday posting, it's gratifying that people get something out of it.

A five-star review for Boring Books for Bedtime that says:

No ads or Al!
Sep 13, 2026
Russell0614

On top of the soothing voice of an actual person there's no ads where I'm jolted awake in the middle of the night by someone way too excited about Rogaine for Men. I listen every single night, my only wish is for more Ancient Greek literature!

Another five-star review for Boring Books for Bedtime that says:

The best for sleep and no ads
Sep 17, 2026
dusty peanut

I love this podcast so much. I would have to say I like the newer episodes more, without the background music and more hurried reading. I think she's really nailed it lately. Soothing voice, just slightly boring enough topics and no jarring ads to jolt you awake just as you're drifting off. I highly recommend supporting her via Patreon if you listen regularly so we can all continue to drift off ad free [purple heart emoji]

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 24/09/2026

If only I could read it 😢

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

It is time. New wallpaper season is here!

Photo taken on the Isle of Skye showing a pool of still water nestled in autumnal russet foliage in a hilly landscape, as the sun sets and creates sparkles and lens flare. The sky is blue with floating white clouds.

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 29/08/2026

My pleasure, Anne! Our month of Wayback Machine readings was really fun, and I look forward to reading more from them—in slightly less than four to six years, this time. I'm so glad they help you!

A screenshot of a tipper's comment on the Buy Me A Coffee page for Boring Books for Bedtime that says:

Anne Desmond bought 3 coffees

Thank you so much for revisiting Marco Polo, and back some time, the Venerable Bede! | love these things, and they definitely help me sleep. You are providing a real service!

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 26/08/2026

Sigh....Tim Curry. What a comic genius he was. This one hurts, too, since he figures in so many works from my youth.

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 17/08/2026

Some really lovely comments from some Boring Books for Bedtime listeners (and generous tippers!). It is SO appreciated, friends, thank you! ♥️♥️♥️

A note on Buy Me a Coffee from Ruth, who bought 3 coffees: What a wonderfully calming voice you have. And such interesting old books-even though they do put me to sleep!

A note on Buy Me a Coffee from Talia, who bought 5 coffees: Thank you for making this podcast! It's just the trick when I'm having trouble winding down.

A note on Buy Me a Coffee from Jasper, who bought 5 coffees: Thanks for this great service! My sleep has gotten so much better since I listen to you often. Science, mechanics, etiquette, railway travel, bees - who knew they would provide the perfect combination of interest and boredom.

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 11/08/2026

Wow, thank you so much, lovely listener! It is really, really appreciated. ♥️♥️♥️ buymeacoffee.com/d5kcmsw/t/6830883

Screenshot of a supporter message from the Buy Me a Coffee page for the Boring Books for Bedtime sleep podcast that says:

Lina bought you 30 coffees.
"I don't remember how I stumbled onto your website, but it's been a godsend! Thank you SO VERY MUCH. Zzzzzzzzz"

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 21/07/2026

Turned on The Long Dark to play for the first time in a while (final chapter!) and was so pleased to see a brand new opening screen. Well done, @hinterland.bsky.social I love you even more now.

Opening screen to The Long Dark game that says:

STATEMENT AGAINST THE USE OF GENERATIVE AI
Hinterland is a humans-first company. We believe in the primacy of human creativity, and in the dignity of all human creators. We will never use generative Al for any of our games, nor include any code or content in our games that wasn't created purely by humans.

We are opposed to the widespread exploitation and abuse of human creativity, exploitation that underpins the business models of all generative Al companies. We believe that this fight is an existential fight for the soul of humanity, and we see games standing at the forefront of this fight. There is no ethical application of generative Al, as all commercial models are built on the industrial-scale theft and exploitation of workers, as well as the destruction of our environment, to the sole benefit of the billionaire-class.

We also do not consent to have any of our work added to any generative Al models, for training purposes or otherwise, and will use all legal means at our disposal to protect our creations and our intellectual property. We believe that our work, and the commitment to our players, demands this of us.

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 18/07/2026

What thoughtfulness from an anonymous Boring Books for Bedtime listener, thank you! Ad-free now, and ad-free always, thanks to people like you. ♥️♥️♥️

Screenshot of a comment from Buy Me a Coffee from "Appreciative Listener" of Boring Books for Bedtime who tipped the podcast by buying 12 coffees. It says: "Thank you so much for keeping your podcast ad free. I've been listening and benefiting for a while. Best podcast for getting to sleep and returning to sleep when I wake at 4 am. A regular contribution doesn't feel doable right now so l appreciate the opportunity to "buy a coffee," when it works for me. Thank you!"

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 08/07/2026

And a lovely few comments about Boring Books from Bedtime from Apple in recent weeks, too! Appreciate everyone who takes the time to drop such kind words. Happy flying, pilot friend. :D

A five star review for Boring Books for Bedtime on Apple Podcasts that says:

Grateful
Jun 7, 2026
NemikSaysTry

Glad I found this podcast. It hits the spot. Origin of Species was just interesting enough to capture me, and stop the wheels from spinning. Just dry and academic enough to release me to drift off to sleep....

A five-star review for Boring Books for Bedtime from Apple Podcasts that says:

Fantastic
Jun 8, 2026
Fischman217

I'm a professional pilot who deadheads a great deal. I put on noise canceling headphones and load 3 or 4 episodes to drown out all of the noise on a deadhead flight to get caught up on much needed sleep. This podcast has been a game changer for my professional life. Highly recommend

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 07/07/2026

What a lovely comment from a Boring Books for Bedtime supporter on Buy Me a Coffee. Thank you, Karen!

A note from a supporter of Boring Books for Bedtime that reads:

Karen bought you 8 coffees.

Hi Sharon,
I'm overdue to buy you some root beer floats, but I also wanted to confess that l've checked out other sleep podcasts, and... I just can't find anything as well produced and performed as well as yours.

There's always something that irritates me: the voice has a dialectical difference, the sound is annoying, there are ads, the pacing is just not right, etc, etc, etc.

You're just the best!

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 07/07/2026

The folks making the new Otter Planet game came up with a character quiz, which I can never resist. Love my result! www.habitheque.com/allyquiz

A result card from the Otter Planet character quiz assigning me Manta Birostris, a deepwave problem-solver, with characteristics "reflective, adaptive, patient, cerebral." The card shows a graphic depiction of a manta in calm blues and purples, with what appears to be a purple curlicue mustache along the top of its mouth.

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 30/06/2026

Date yourself with a snap of your first ever computer. Behold…the Wang VS!

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 16/06/2026

Omg, this was fun, thanks for the link!

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 28/05/2026

Thank you so much for the lovely review, kind Boring Books for Bedtime listener! I love those Muir books, too. They're a real (and relaxing) joy to read to you all. ♥️

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 03/05/2026

Stumbled on these photos by Jonathan Appleyard over on Reddit and was agog, AGOG I tell you, at the weird wonderfulness of our world.

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 07/04/2026

Hi, it's me, The Twit who's spent 7+ years doing this alone. The Twit who picks the books, reads the words, edits the audio for hours. The Twit who refused ads so you could sleep in peace. The Twit who reads your letters and sends you support and . . . This Twit is fucking tired.

A 1-star review for Boring Books for Bedtime that falsely declares, "So this podcast is completely AI created garbage. And there is no Sharon Handy. This was created so some twit could make a little money via Patreon and Buy Me a Coffee. Zero stars"

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 27/03/2026

Just opened my office window and this is what’s happening outside in my urban yard. There are also fish crows, European starlings, sparrows and more, all for the price of a few feeders and bird baths. You’re welcome, neighbors in the new build who put in artificial grass.

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 14/03/2026

Today’s headline juxtaposition that made me close the news until I’ve had more coffee.

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 10/03/2026

And this one in Kamakura makes you a sealed cup of fresh-squeezed orange juice. Pleasant!

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 10/03/2026

Still mildly confused by the flying fish-flavored soup stock vending machine in a parking lot in Yokosuka.

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 25/02/2026

Running through some old Patreon posts, saw a gallery of cruise ship ads from the 1920s I shared last year, and once again was reminded how COOL they were. Look at this stunner from graphic art giant Paul Colin. Here's a bit about him: outrejournal.com/paul-colin-a... AI could NEVER.

A 1920s era poster advertising the C.G. Transatlantique French Line of cruise ships sailing the Atlantic, Pacific and Mediterranean. The design is striking bold and minimalist, with the tall, sharp bow of a black and white cruise ship seeming to sail out of a the background, which is made up of the three color stripes of the French flag - blue, white, and red. A slight ripple in the background creates movement in the stripes, as well as a sense of light playing on water. Two-thirds of the way down, opposing ripples and shading create the water the ship is sailing in, along with reflections. The graphic conveys a sensibility of strength, elegance, and a bit of mystery that complements the idea of adventure in the 1920s Age of Travel. The artist was Paul Colin, a well-known French graphic designer who did many striking posters during the Jazz Age.

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 05/02/2026

Dangit, LEGO, why do you hurt my wallet like this??? And, yet, I must have it. One of my favorite books in many years. Amaze!

A photo of the box for a new LEGO set for the book-now-movie Project Hail Mary, featuring the Hail Mary ship with long, white cylindrical fuel tanks, grey horizontal arms or solar panels, a dark grey, industrial-looking stand, a small Grace figurine in a red spacesuit, and a smaller brown figurine of Rocky with five arms that appear poseable. Amaze! Fist my bump!

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 23/01/2026

If you see this, post your painting/drawing of a dragon 🐉 #dragon #ttrpg #bwart #sketchbook (sketch from the waaaaaaaayback)

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 31/12/2025

It's Top Ten Roundup time for Boring Books for Bedtime. There were some changes this year, more history and politics and fewer of the cozy reads that dominated 2024. Some perennial faves and a REALLY surprising number one. Here's to more in 2026!

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 22/12/2025

Need a last-minute gift? Audiobooks or credits from @libro.fm are perfect for your bookish friends and family! And every purchase from this link helps Boring Books for Bedtime a wee bit, too. Win win! Seriously, even if you don't use this link, Libro is awesome. 😀 www.awin1.com/cread.php?aw...

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 01/12/2025

Japan decided to show off a little bit today, and why not?

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 02/11/2025

If you're at Indie Flea Market in St. Pete today, drop by my sister's booth. She upcycles discarded/broken vintage enamel and rhinestone jewelry into unique and beautiful wearable pieces. Sourced, designed & made entirely by a human for other cool humans. No dropshipped junk! #ValerieBeckerStudio

The booth for Valerie Becker Studio at the Indie Flea Market in Saint Petersburg, with two tables of pendants, rings, earrings and bracelets made from brightly colored 1950s and 1960s enamel flowers, animals, and floral designs set on new gold rings and bracelets, or backed by handmade wooden pendant mounts. All unique, all for the viewing on a glorious sunny day in Florida.

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 15/10/2025

It’s hard to explain, but the clear light of fake fall in Florida is such a relief after the heat-dulled air of the past seven months. Everything feels so much less burdened.

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 23/09/2025

Aw, thank you so much for the kind podcast review! So delighted to deliver episode after episode of Boring Books for Bedtime that never get heard (for the right reasons). Admittedly an odd goal for a podcast, but there we are.

Another five-star review for Boring Books for Bedtime that says, "Guys, this is the most boring podcast ever. Not interesting at ALL." Thanks, reviewer!

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 21/09/2025

Another lovely review from a person who supported the Boring Books for Bedtime podcast with a subscription-free tip on Buy Me A Coffee. I've never been called heroin before, but I'm not mad about it. Thank you, lovely listener!

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 18/09/2025

Love getting reviews for Boring Books for Bedtime, but I *really* love those that say it's helping kids. My very first thank you came from a mom who used the podcast to help a newborn through some tough medical procedures. I mean! How often do we get to help a stranger that way? It's an honor. ♥️

A five-star review for Boring Books for Bedtime that says, "These episodes are the only thing helping us get our two toddlers (1 yr & 2 yr) to sleep! Thank you." Thank you, kind listener!

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 17/09/2025

Friends, it's time for that most rare of events, audiobook BOGO @libro.fm! I'm not saying I've crammed my cart with more for an already-groaning pile of TBRs (uh, TBLs, I guess?), but I'm not not saying it. If you start here, you help the podcast, too. Everyone wins! www.awin1.com/cread.php?aw...

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 19/07/2025

In These Our Dumb Times, I cannot suggest enough just doing something crafty with your hands, whatever that is. This is my third fiddly-frustrating-fun book nook construction, and it's one of the few times I feel that sense of "flow" anymore. Recommend!

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 16/07/2025

Yep, I know what it says and means. But a little twist on the pronunciation makes this is an awfully intriguing book idea!

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 26/06/2025

This note made me laugh today! It is so weird (and fun) to make a podcast that people are NOT supposed to listen to, at least not for very long. Thank you for the support that keeps Boring Books for Bedtime ad-free, Ellen!

A notice from Buy Me A Coffee that "Ellen has bought 5 coffees" as a way to support the podcast and keep it ad-free. She says, "I am really enjoying the first three or four minutes of your podcasts! They're very effective, and your reading style is perfect." Thank you for the kind words and generosity, Ellen!

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 09/06/2025

So...it's only Monday? Sigh. If you're having trouble sleeping in These Our Times, there's a brand new Boring Books for Bedtime up for your tired, stressed-out mind. This week, the redoubtable Mrs. B instructs us about fish! Get the relaxing read on your fave #podcast app. Enjoy! bio.link/bbbpod

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 09/06/2025

A few really kind reviews for Boring Books for Bedtime! It's always lovely to hear from listeners who are getting better sleep through the power of words spoken dully, especially in These Our Times. It's so appreciated!

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 23/05/2025

After a trip to the UK, where I marveled at the flowers, I decided to pay more attention and appreciation to my own “everyday” place. These are just a few of the things I saw during a 40-minute walk this morning. You (well, I) just have to look! (Plumeria, Royal Poinciana, Gardenia, No Idea)

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 05/05/2025

Need to rest your weary head after a night of Cinco de Mayo fun? This week's brand new Boring Books for Bedtime takes us into the far past of Mexico and the not-really-boring history of its peoples. I hope you enjoy it! bio.link/bbbpod

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 02/05/2025

Another week, another round of sleep roulette. If this is you, Boring Books for Bedtime has a shiny new episode up! This week, Michael Faraday discusses his foundational experiments in electromagnetism. Effing magnets, how do they work? Let's (fall asleep before we) find out. bio.link/bbbpod

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 26/04/2025

Happy Independent Bookstore Day to all who celebrate! As soon as I'm done editing this Patreon bonus episode for Boring Books for Bedtime, I'm off to my fave lovely local @tombolobooks.bsky.social And then I'm getting an ice cream, because it is hot here and I deserve an ice cream, darn it.

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 24/04/2025

Our pals @libro.fm are having a big ol' sale in honor of Indie Bookshop Day this Saturday, and they have some awesome bestsellers for great prices! I can't recommend them enough if you're a fan of audiobooks and authors who resist the megacorp's walled garden. Get 'em! libro.fm/sale?utm_sou...

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 22/04/2025

This week on Boring Books for Bedtime, we celebrate Earth Day AND beautify our dreams with blooms, as we shop for seeds. From sweet peas to succulents, Gardiner & Co. has what you need to create a wonderland of floral finesse. Get the relaxing read on any podcast app. Enjoy! bio.link/bbbpod

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 20/04/2025

Thank you so much for the kind review, listener! Boring Books for Bedtime has been ad-free for 6.5 years. Sometimes it's a struggle to think about the money left behind, but it continues to prove to be the right call for me. Glad you agree!

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 11/03/2025

Dear Patreon Supporters and Soon-to-Bes, some advice about not signing up through Apple Subscriptions for anything Patreon related. Apple is now soaking you for an extra 30% for the convenience. Needless to say, your boring reader has...opinions. www.patreon.com/posts/dear-n...

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Sharon Handy @shandy.bsky.social · 08/03/2025

They land in your life with like a meteor, and their exit leaves a permanent heart-shaped crater. I will miss you so much, Maxy Max. ♥️

A sleeping tabby cat named Max, with light brown and chocolate brown stripes, contented sleeping in a C shape on a light marbled grey couch. He had no care in the world, and I was envious beyond words.

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