About this episode
The episode discusses the modernization of classic YA books by updating cultural references, featuring insights from guest Angelina Mazza.
On today’s episode, host Kate Lindsay is joined by Angelina Mazza whose recent piece in The New York Times details how publishers are “modernizing” previously published books like Pretty Little Liars and Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret by replacing outdated references to pop culture and technology with artists like Billie Eilish and apps like TikTok. While publishers claim this is to keep younger readers engaged, others argue it’s not just patronizing, but also disrespectful to the art of storytelling. This podcast is produced by Vic Whitley-Berry, Daisy Rosario, and Kate Lindsay. Need to set up your Slate Plus feed? If you subscribed through Slate.com, check out our FAQ at slate.com/podcastfaqs for easy instructions. Members subscribed via Apple Podcasts get automatic access—no setup required. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
People in this episode
Host: Kate Lindsay
Guest: Angelina Mazza
Topics covered
- publishing
- young adult literature
- cultural references
- storytelling
- modernization
Keywords
- TikTok
- young adult books
- publishing
- cultural references
- storytelling
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: The New York Times
Products: TikTok
Books & works: Pretty Little Liars, Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret
More episodes of ICYMI
- You Keep Falling For Secret Ads · June 10, 2026 · 33 min
- Beware The Boy Mom · June 6, 2026 · 40 min
- AI Detectors Won’t Save Us · May 30, 2026 · 35 min
- The Secret Marketing Tactic Killing The Internet · May 27, 2026 · 26 min
- There's No Point To Influencers Anymore · May 23, 2026 · 34 min
- Phone Etiquette Is In The Toilet · May 20, 2026 · 37 min
Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the ICYMI podcast page.