Charlie Jane "Lessons in Magic and Disaster" Anders 🏳️⚧
@charliejane.bsky.social
Author of Lessons in Magic and Disaster (Tor Books, 2025), about a woman who teaches her mother how to do magic — and uncovers a queer scandal hidden in a 300 year old book.
SFF book critic @WashingtonPost.com. Co-host @ouropinions.bsky.social.
SFF book critic @WashingtonPost.com. Co-host @ouropinions.bsky.social.
Pinned
I'm so grateful for recent responses to Lessons in Magic and Disaster!!!
First, bookseller Rowan Julian with @novelneighbor.bsky.social in St Louis calls Lessons "a firecracker of a book" and "one of my favorites of 2025" in an utterly wonderful shelf-talker.
🧵
First, bookseller Rowan Julian with @novelneighbor.bsky.social in St Louis calls Lessons "a firecracker of a book" and "one of my favorites of 2025" in an utterly wonderful shelf-talker.
🧵
Reposted by Charlie Jane "Lessons in Magic and Disaster" Anders 🏳️⚧
Protecting people is gonna make you mean right now .
GOOD
Someone whose asking you to be “nice” is asking for control
You don’t have to give it to them .
People need kindness and measured responses .. and they don’t deserve the benefit of the doubt
People should SAY what they love
GOOD
Someone whose asking you to be “nice” is asking for control
You don’t have to give it to them .
People need kindness and measured responses .. and they don’t deserve the benefit of the doubt
People should SAY what they love
December 5, 2025 at 4:17 AM
Protecting people is gonna make you mean right now .
GOOD
Someone whose asking you to be “nice” is asking for control
You don’t have to give it to them .
People need kindness and measured responses .. and they don’t deserve the benefit of the doubt
People should SAY what they love
GOOD
Someone whose asking you to be “nice” is asking for control
You don’t have to give it to them .
People need kindness and measured responses .. and they don’t deserve the benefit of the doubt
People should SAY what they love
Reposted by Charlie Jane "Lessons in Magic and Disaster" Anders 🏳️⚧
(1/2) This court is a problem that won't go away. They'll block everything the next Dem president does.
Got to start talking about "court reform" now. "Republicans in robes", "corruption". Not "packing" or "expanding".
Start framing the discussion now.
We know that...
Got to start talking about "court reform" now. "Republicans in robes", "corruption". Not "packing" or "expanding".
Start framing the discussion now.
We know that...
December 5, 2025 at 2:24 AM
(1/2) This court is a problem that won't go away. They'll block everything the next Dem president does.
Got to start talking about "court reform" now. "Republicans in robes", "corruption". Not "packing" or "expanding".
Start framing the discussion now.
We know that...
Got to start talking about "court reform" now. "Republicans in robes", "corruption". Not "packing" or "expanding".
Start framing the discussion now.
We know that...
Reposted by Charlie Jane "Lessons in Magic and Disaster" Anders 🏳️⚧
i made a video about the president's gutter racism against somali-americans and how a scandal became a smear became a call for de facto ethnic cleansing
Donald Trump’s racist attack on Somali Americans
YouTube video by Takes™ by Jamelle Bouie
www.youtube.com
December 4, 2025 at 9:59 AM
i made a video about the president's gutter racism against somali-americans and how a scandal became a smear became a call for de facto ethnic cleansing
Reposted by Charlie Jane "Lessons in Magic and Disaster" Anders 🏳️⚧
This book is tremendous, art this good should be cherished and supported endlessly!
My novel Lessons in Magic and Disaster makes a fantastic holiday gift. It's a queer mother-daughter story about healing and learning to see each other more clearly. With bonus 18th century literature secrets!
(Thanks to the Booksmith for letting me take photos there.)
(Thanks to the Booksmith for letting me take photos there.)
December 3, 2025 at 11:15 PM
This book is tremendous, art this good should be cherished and supported endlessly!
Reposted by Charlie Jane "Lessons in Magic and Disaster" Anders 🏳️⚧
Fiction Standout #2:
Lessons in Magic and Disaster by @charliejane.bsky.social is gloriously, unapologetically queer and focuses on forming connections and trying to do the best you can for the ones you love, plus a magic system that seems to run on vibes. This book was messy in the best way.
Lessons in Magic and Disaster by @charliejane.bsky.social is gloriously, unapologetically queer and focuses on forming connections and trying to do the best you can for the ones you love, plus a magic system that seems to run on vibes. This book was messy in the best way.
December 3, 2025 at 10:54 PM
Fiction Standout #2:
Lessons in Magic and Disaster by @charliejane.bsky.social is gloriously, unapologetically queer and focuses on forming connections and trying to do the best you can for the ones you love, plus a magic system that seems to run on vibes. This book was messy in the best way.
Lessons in Magic and Disaster by @charliejane.bsky.social is gloriously, unapologetically queer and focuses on forming connections and trying to do the best you can for the ones you love, plus a magic system that seems to run on vibes. This book was messy in the best way.
Reposted by Charlie Jane "Lessons in Magic and Disaster" Anders 🏳️⚧
They should do MyChart Wrapped
December 3, 2025 at 10:13 PM
They should do MyChart Wrapped
Reposted by Charlie Jane "Lessons in Magic and Disaster" Anders 🏳️⚧
I'm relaunching Dominion of the Fallen in the US with @awfulagent.bsky.social
Magnificent covers by @fringe-element.net
Deliciously gothic atmosphere, queer characters from across the world, and high intrigue--in a Paris wrecked by magical cataclysms
March 10th, 2026!
awfulagent.com/ebooks/the-h...
Magnificent covers by @fringe-element.net
Deliciously gothic atmosphere, queer characters from across the world, and high intrigue--in a Paris wrecked by magical cataclysms
March 10th, 2026!
awfulagent.com/ebooks/the-h...
December 3, 2025 at 8:18 PM
I'm relaunching Dominion of the Fallen in the US with @awfulagent.bsky.social
Magnificent covers by @fringe-element.net
Deliciously gothic atmosphere, queer characters from across the world, and high intrigue--in a Paris wrecked by magical cataclysms
March 10th, 2026!
awfulagent.com/ebooks/the-h...
Magnificent covers by @fringe-element.net
Deliciously gothic atmosphere, queer characters from across the world, and high intrigue--in a Paris wrecked by magical cataclysms
March 10th, 2026!
awfulagent.com/ebooks/the-h...
Reposted by Charlie Jane "Lessons in Magic and Disaster" Anders 🏳️⚧
Reminder: It's never too late to start wearing a mask again
December 3, 2025 at 9:22 PM
Reminder: It's never too late to start wearing a mask again
Reposted by Charlie Jane "Lessons in Magic and Disaster" Anders 🏳️⚧
Any best of movie list for 2025 that doesn't have Sinners on it at all is white supremacist
If Sinners isn't very close to the top, it is hella suspect
If Sinners isn't very close to the top, it is hella suspect
December 3, 2025 at 9:36 PM
Any best of movie list for 2025 that doesn't have Sinners on it at all is white supremacist
If Sinners isn't very close to the top, it is hella suspect
If Sinners isn't very close to the top, it is hella suspect
Reposted by Charlie Jane "Lessons in Magic and Disaster" Anders 🏳️⚧
This is a profoundly anti-Black country. Not just racist but ANTI-BLACK. It is foundational and everpresent.
December 3, 2025 at 10:02 PM
This is a profoundly anti-Black country. Not just racist but ANTI-BLACK. It is foundational and everpresent.
Reposted by Charlie Jane "Lessons in Magic and Disaster" Anders 🏳️⚧
NEWS: The Institute of Museum & Library Services has restored ALL previously canceled federal grants to libraries, following a ruling by a federal judge in Rhode Island last month.
This is a massive win for libraries & communities in every state & territory!
Learn more: www.ala.org/news/2025/12...
This is a massive win for libraries & communities in every state & territory!
Learn more: www.ala.org/news/2025/12...
December 3, 2025 at 10:18 PM
NEWS: The Institute of Museum & Library Services has restored ALL previously canceled federal grants to libraries, following a ruling by a federal judge in Rhode Island last month.
This is a massive win for libraries & communities in every state & territory!
Learn more: www.ala.org/news/2025/12...
This is a massive win for libraries & communities in every state & territory!
Learn more: www.ala.org/news/2025/12...
Marvel already has some great trans characters <ahem Escapade ahem> that could do with more love lately
Gail, could you try and push for a new trans character at marvel?
There's not enough
There's not enough
December 3, 2025 at 10:18 PM
Marvel already has some great trans characters <ahem Escapade ahem> that could do with more love lately
Reposted by Charlie Jane "Lessons in Magic and Disaster" Anders 🏳️⚧
Aw, crap. An absolute legend.
One of the all-time greats - guitarist, songwriter, producer, icon. Rest easy, Steve. variety.com/2025/music/n...
Steve Cropper, Legendary Guitarist for Booker T. & the MG’s, Otis Redding and the Blues Brothers, Dies at 84
Steve Cropper, guitarist for Booker T. & the MG's, Otis Redding, the Blues Brothers and many more, has died. He was 84.
variety.com
December 3, 2025 at 10:10 PM
Aw, crap. An absolute legend.
Reposted by Charlie Jane "Lessons in Magic and Disaster" Anders 🏳️⚧
First electric bill came in at 70 dollars. Due by Christmas Eve. Internet follows after. Please help me pay for them and food, supplies, etc. #MutualAidHelp #MutualAidBoost #HelpSky #EmergencySky
~$200 FOOD/MEDS/HYGIENE + ~$150 UTILITIES (Electric came in & wasn't as bad as guesstimated)
Disabled. In SSI appeals. No income until won. Waiting on Section 8 for permanent housing. OK for now w/ temp housing. Any combo ppl x $$ = $350 is good.
Pls RS/QS. Pls do what you can. #HelpFolksLive2025
Disabled. In SSI appeals. No income until won. Waiting on Section 8 for permanent housing. OK for now w/ temp housing. Any combo ppl x $$ = $350 is good.
Pls RS/QS. Pls do what you can. #HelpFolksLive2025
Electric bill came today first which costs 70 dollars. Internet will come soon. Please help me pay for that, food, internet, etc. Please help me, it's urgent. Especially as electric is due by Christmas Eve. bsky.app/profile/mvbr...
December 3, 2025 at 10:02 PM
First electric bill came in at 70 dollars. Due by Christmas Eve. Internet follows after. Please help me pay for them and food, supplies, etc. #MutualAidHelp #MutualAidBoost #HelpSky #EmergencySky
Reposted by Charlie Jane "Lessons in Magic and Disaster" Anders 🏳️⚧
This Saturday! 12:30 PM, Zeitgeist, SF.
The Trans Nerd Meet Up is for anyone who is A) not cis and B) loves to geek out about anything at all. Bring games, gadgets, your stamp collection, toys, or just yourself. WE DON'T GATEKEEP. If you think you're welcome, you ARE.
The Trans Nerd Meet Up is for anyone who is A) not cis and B) loves to geek out about anything at all. Bring games, gadgets, your stamp collection, toys, or just yourself. WE DON'T GATEKEEP. If you think you're welcome, you ARE.
December 2, 2025 at 3:58 AM
This Saturday! 12:30 PM, Zeitgeist, SF.
The Trans Nerd Meet Up is for anyone who is A) not cis and B) loves to geek out about anything at all. Bring games, gadgets, your stamp collection, toys, or just yourself. WE DON'T GATEKEEP. If you think you're welcome, you ARE.
The Trans Nerd Meet Up is for anyone who is A) not cis and B) loves to geek out about anything at all. Bring games, gadgets, your stamp collection, toys, or just yourself. WE DON'T GATEKEEP. If you think you're welcome, you ARE.
Reposted by Charlie Jane "Lessons in Magic and Disaster" Anders 🏳️⚧
Rep. Ilhan Omar: "I hope he gets the help he needs. It sounds like he's trying to deflect from the failures that he's had as president ... he's fought to be the head of the pedophile protection party."
December 3, 2025 at 4:35 PM
Rep. Ilhan Omar: "I hope he gets the help he needs. It sounds like he's trying to deflect from the failures that he's had as president ... he's fought to be the head of the pedophile protection party."
Reposted by Charlie Jane "Lessons in Magic and Disaster" Anders 🏳️⚧
It was announced on October 16, 2025 that VIBE was "joining forces" with Rolling Stone. As a result, the majority of VIBE employees were laid off. If you have the means to give, this team could use the support! www.gofundme.com/f/support-vi...
Donate to Support VIBE Staff After Sudden Layoffs, organized by Mya Abraham
It was announced on October 16, 2025 that VIBE was "joining forces" with Rolling S… Mya Abraham needs your support for Support VIBE Staff After Sudden Layoffs
www.gofundme.com
November 14, 2025 at 6:02 PM
It was announced on October 16, 2025 that VIBE was "joining forces" with Rolling Stone. As a result, the majority of VIBE employees were laid off. If you have the means to give, this team could use the support! www.gofundme.com/f/support-vi...
To me the biggest mystery in the history of Minneapolis funk is the song "If You See Me" (aka "Do Yourself a Favor"). It's... not a particularly good song.
Prince played on the original version as a session musician in like 1977. Then both Prince and Jesse Johnson recorded their own versions. WHY?
Prince played on the original version as a session musician in like 1977. Then both Prince and Jesse Johnson recorded their own versions. WHY?
December 3, 2025 at 8:43 PM
To me the biggest mystery in the history of Minneapolis funk is the song "If You See Me" (aka "Do Yourself a Favor"). It's... not a particularly good song.
Prince played on the original version as a session musician in like 1977. Then both Prince and Jesse Johnson recorded their own versions. WHY?
Prince played on the original version as a session musician in like 1977. Then both Prince and Jesse Johnson recorded their own versions. WHY?
Reposted by Charlie Jane "Lessons in Magic and Disaster" Anders 🏳️⚧
Hey! If you’ve ever liked my voice, now, before the end of the year, would be a really good time to hire me for any SAG-approved projects!
Asking as someone who loves VO, and also really loves having halfway decent health insurance
Asking as someone who loves VO, and also really loves having halfway decent health insurance
December 3, 2025 at 7:01 PM
Hey! If you’ve ever liked my voice, now, before the end of the year, would be a really good time to hire me for any SAG-approved projects!
Asking as someone who loves VO, and also really loves having halfway decent health insurance
Asking as someone who loves VO, and also really loves having halfway decent health insurance
Reposted by Charlie Jane "Lessons in Magic and Disaster" Anders 🏳️⚧
Lessons in Magic and Disaster will be one of my gifts under the tree
My novel Lessons in Magic and Disaster makes a fantastic holiday gift. It's a queer mother-daughter story about healing and learning to see each other more clearly. With bonus 18th century literature secrets!
(Thanks to the Booksmith for letting me take photos there.)
(Thanks to the Booksmith for letting me take photos there.)
December 3, 2025 at 7:56 PM
Lessons in Magic and Disaster will be one of my gifts under the tree
Reposted by Charlie Jane "Lessons in Magic and Disaster" Anders 🏳️⚧
I am so grateful to everyone who has stepped up to help this awesome member of our local SF trans nerd community. I know everything is hard right now but I'd be so incredibly grateful if you could spare a few bucks now.
We are working on helping her get a job, it's just a tough market right now 😭
We are working on helping her get a job, it's just a tough market right now 😭
i should have got this up sooner, but i was ashamed; need to try to raise money for rent again this month and i remain (mostly; might have PT work!) unemployed as we approach year end.
please help me keep myself and my partner housed.
#helpsky #MARequest #transcrowdfund
ko-fi.com/iafishman/go...
please help me keep myself and my partner housed.
#helpsky #MARequest #transcrowdfund
ko-fi.com/iafishman/go...
November 22, 2025 at 4:03 PM
I am so grateful to everyone who has stepped up to help this awesome member of our local SF trans nerd community. I know everything is hard right now but I'd be so incredibly grateful if you could spare a few bucks now.
We are working on helping her get a job, it's just a tough market right now 😭
We are working on helping her get a job, it's just a tough market right now 😭
Reposted by Charlie Jane "Lessons in Magic and Disaster" Anders 🏳️⚧
Contact us if you have been affected by the policy changes of Girl Guiding or the Women's Institute. This could be as an individual, or because you lead a local Brownie group who don't want this policy change. We want to help protect trans inclusion.
goodlawproject.org/about/contact/
goodlawproject.org/about/contact/
December 3, 2025 at 4:06 PM
Contact us if you have been affected by the policy changes of Girl Guiding or the Women's Institute. This could be as an individual, or because you lead a local Brownie group who don't want this policy change. We want to help protect trans inclusion.
goodlawproject.org/about/contact/
goodlawproject.org/about/contact/
My novel Lessons in Magic and Disaster makes a fantastic holiday gift. It's a queer mother-daughter story about healing and learning to see each other more clearly. With bonus 18th century literature secrets!
(Thanks to the Booksmith for letting me take photos there.)
(Thanks to the Booksmith for letting me take photos there.)
December 3, 2025 at 7:07 PM
My novel Lessons in Magic and Disaster makes a fantastic holiday gift. It's a queer mother-daughter story about healing and learning to see each other more clearly. With bonus 18th century literature secrets!
(Thanks to the Booksmith for letting me take photos there.)
(Thanks to the Booksmith for letting me take photos there.)
Reposted by Charlie Jane "Lessons in Magic and Disaster" Anders 🏳️⚧
You know what isn’t developmentally appropriate or healthy for kids? Cancelling SNAP and free school lunches. Letting kids go hungry and malnourished because some want to punish their parents for not making enough money. That is cruelty. That is not funny. 6/
December 2, 2025 at 11:18 PM
You know what isn’t developmentally appropriate or healthy for kids? Cancelling SNAP and free school lunches. Letting kids go hungry and malnourished because some want to punish their parents for not making enough money. That is cruelty. That is not funny. 6/
Reposted by Charlie Jane "Lessons in Magic and Disaster" Anders 🏳️⚧
Hi again! It's me with an another installment of the last book I ever thought would get banned--my picture book about a unicorn and kitty who are pals. A quick look at what this school district bizarrely found objectionable. 1/
You'll never guess what book got the Carroll ISD school library advisory committee to say "genitals" a dozen times in 20 minutes. @txfreedomread.bsky.social will have more on this story soon, but for now, you have to hear this audio. open.substack.com/pub/franklin...
Please don’t say “genitals” one more time, Carroll ISD SLAC.
Listen to the audio of the committee that decided to ban Pretty Perfect Kitty Corn from Carroll ISD. If you dare.
open.substack.com
December 2, 2025 at 11:14 PM
Hi again! It's me with an another installment of the last book I ever thought would get banned--my picture book about a unicorn and kitty who are pals. A quick look at what this school district bizarrely found objectionable. 1/