Welcome to Bookmarks ‘n Blankets
Hi, I’m Kelly Matsudaira (mat-sue-die-ruh), and I am so glad you’re here! This is my cozy little corner of the internet where I share my love for books, movies, and TV shows… but mostly books. Alongside my podcast, I also write a blog filled with book lists, reviews, reading tips, and cozy lifestyle content. Beyond storytelling, I am also passionate about all things comfy, self-care, and personal growth.
My Story
For years, I dreamed of starting a podcast. I had so many ideas, but something always held me back, whether it was life getting in the way, fear creeping in, or simply not the right timing. Then, in early March 2023, everything changed. A YouTube video about cozy fantasy books popped up in my feed. At first, I thought the term just meant fantasy books you could curl up with under a blanket and enjoy with a warm drink. To my surprise, I discovered it was an actual subgenre… and that discovery sent me spiraling down the happiest rabbit hole.
Within days, I was exploring an entire online book world I never knew existed—BookTube, BookTok, and Bookstagram. As someone who has always loved reading, stumbling into this vibrant community felt like finding my tribe at last. I had been a lifelong reader but had let fiction fall to the side for nearly a decade. Suddenly, I felt reawakened, energized, and more excited than I had been in years.
Once I found this community, I knew it was time to finally step into the creative work I had been dreaming about. Launching Bookmarks ‘n Blankets has been one of the best decisions of my life. Through both my podcast and my blog, I get to combine my love of books with cozy living and self-care, all while connecting with fellow book lovers.
Want to hear more of my story? Start with the very first episode.
About the Show and Blog
On my podcast, you will find book lists and reviews, bookish discussions, reading topics, cozy living chats, and even recommendations for movies and TV series. I love exploring the many ways stories shape our lives, but I also dive into mindfulness and self-care, since coziness and personal growth are at the heart of what I do.
My blog is a companion to the podcast and also stands on its own as a space for readers to discover new book lists, practical reading tips, thoughtful book discussions, and lifestyle posts. Whether you prefer listening or reading, you will find plenty of inspiration to make your reading life even more enjoyable.
So grab a blanket, pour yourself something warm to drink, and get cozy with me. I hope Bookmarks ‘n Blankets becomes a place where you can relax and unwind, find new stories to love, and feel inspired in your own reading journey.
Happy Reading!