February is here, and you know what that means: it's time to curl up with something thought-provoking, soul-stirring, and absolutely unputdownable. This month, we're pairing Ayana Gray's I, Medusa with two beverages that'll take you on a sensory journey: the rich, smooth Bali Blue coffee from FB Roasters and the vibrant, floral Hibiscus Berry tea that adds a touch of brightness to those cozy reading moments.

Whether you're team coffee or team tea (or both, no judgment here), this pairing is designed to match the fierce, feminist reimagining of one of mythology's most misunderstood figures. Let's dive in.

About I, Medusa by Ayana Gray February book pick

If you've been sleeping on Ayana Gray's work, consider this your wake-up call. I, Medusa takes the ancient Greek myth we all think we know and flips it completely on its head. Instead of the monster we've been taught to fear, Gray gives us Medusa's own voice: raw, powerful, and achingly human.

This isn't just a retelling; it's a reclamation. Gray explores themes of trauma, transformation, survival, and the ways women's stories have been twisted throughout history. Medusa wasn't born a monster. She was made into one by those who feared her power and refused to acknowledge her pain. Sound familiar?

The prose is gorgeous: poetic without being pretentious, accessible without dumbing anything down. Gray has this incredible ability to make you feel every emotion Medusa experiences: the betrayal, the rage, the loneliness, and ultimately, the hard-won self-acceptance. It's the kind of book that stays with you long after you turn the last page.

Perfect for fans of Madeline Miller's Circe, Natalie Haynes' Stone Blind, or anyone who's ready to see ancient myths through a modern, feminist lens.

The Pairing: Bali Blue Coffee

Let's talk about the coffee first. FB Roasters' Bali Blue is a medium roast that's as complex as Medusa herself. Sourced from the volcanic soils of Indonesia, this single-origin beauty brings smooth, earthy notes with hints of dark chocolate and a subtle sweetness that rounds out every sip.

Why does it pair so perfectly with I, Medusa? Think about it: Bali Blue has depth. It's not one-dimensional or predictable. Just like Gray's Medusa, this coffee reveals different layers as you experience it. The initial earthiness mirrors Medusa's grounding in nature and her connection to the ancient world. The chocolate notes? That's the richness of her internal life: the complexity that gets ignored when people only see the snakes.

The smooth finish is important too. Despite all the trauma and transformation Medusa endures, there's a grace to her story. She doesn't become bitter; she becomes powerful. That's Bali Blue in a cup.

Brewing recommendation: Try it as a pour-over to really appreciate those nuanced flavors. The slower brewing method gives you time to savor each page and each sip. It's a ritual, and this book deserves rituals.

Grab your bag of Bali Blue at FB Roasters and use code BOGO20 for 20% off orders $20 or more. You're welcome.

The Alternative: Hibiscus Berry Tea

Not a coffee person? No worries: we've got you covered with the Hibiscus Berry tea, also from FB Roasters. This caffeine-free option is vibrant, tart, and surprisingly bold. The hibiscus brings a floral, cranberry-like tartness, while the berry notes add natural sweetness and depth.

Here's why it works with I, Medusa: Hibiscus has been used for centuries in various cultures for its healing properties and its association with feminine power. In ancient Egypt, hibiscus tea was reserved for royalty. In other traditions, it's connected to love, passion, and transformation. Sound like anyone we know?

The berry notes add that touch of sweetness that keeps the tea from being too astringent: just like how Gray balances Medusa's justified anger with moments of tenderness and hope. The tea is complex, unapologetically bold, and refuses to be ignored. Medusa energy through and through.

Brewing recommendation: Steep it a little longer than usual if you want that full-bodied tartness. Serve it hot while you're reading in the evening, or brew it strong and serve over ice for afternoon reading sessions. Either way, it's the perfect companion for those intense chapters.

Books & Brew of the Month Subscription

Want it all delivered skip the planning. Books & Brew of the Month subscription includes the book of the month the coffee of the month and a dot journal. Pick your lane then check out.

Coffee subscription https://tr.ee/BNB_Coffee
Tea subscription https://tr.ee/BNB_Tea

Why Books & Brew?

At Dale's Angels Inc., we believe that reading isn't just about the words on the page: it's about the entire experience. The right beverage can enhance your emotional connection to a story, ground you in the moment, and make those reading sessions feel like self-care instead of just another item on your to-do list.

Our Books & Brew series through Far From Beale Street pairs carefully selected titles with thoughtfully chosen beverages from FB Roasters. It's about creating moments of joy, reflection, and connection: with stories, with flavors, and with yourself.

Reading Guide Questions

Want to go deeper with I, Medusa? Here are some questions to consider as you read (perfect for book clubs or solo reflection):

• How does Gray's Medusa differ from the traditional myth? What does she gain by telling the story from Medusa's perspective?

• In what ways does the book explore themes of victim-blaming and the monstrous-feminine?

• How does Medusa's transformation mirror real experiences of trauma and survival?

• What role do the other women in the story play? How do female relationships shape Medusa's journey?

• How does Gray use language and imagery to reclaim Medusa's narrative?

Make It an Experience

Here's how to create your own Books & Brew experience at home:

Set the mood: Find your coziest reading spot. Add a soft blanket, good lighting, and maybe a candle or two.

Brew your beverage: Whether you choose the Bali Blue coffee or the Hibiscus Berry tea, take your time with the brewing process. It's part of the ritual.

Silence the notifications: Give yourself at least 30 minutes of uninterrupted reading time. You deserve it.

Journal if you're feeling it: Keep a notebook nearby for quotes, thoughts, or reflections. I, Medusa is the kind of book that makes you want to underline everything.

Join the conversation: Share your thoughts with us on social media using #BooksAndBrew. We'd love to hear how the pairing worked for you!

Special February Offer

Because we want everyone to experience this pairing, use code BOGO20 at FB Roasters for 20% off any order $20 or more throughout February. Stock up on Bali Blue coffee, Hibiscus Berry tea, or try something new from our full collection.

Grab your copy of I, Medusa through Far From Beale Street, brew your beverage of choice, and get ready to fall in love with a story that's been waiting centuries to be told the right way.

Happy reading, friends. May your coffee be strong, your tea be vibrant, and your books be transformative. ??