### Booked For The Week: A Conversation with Nadya Lev

This week, we delve into the literary preferences of Nadya Lev, co-founder of New York studio Aconite and developer of the unconventional game *Fucksweeper*. Lev’s multifaceted career also extends to augmented reality gaming with *HoloVista*, publishing the alternative magazine *Coilhouse*, and teaching on a variety of intriguing topics ranging from Soviet-era mind control techniques to ancient Egyptian spells.

#### Current Reading: *The Eudaemonic Pie*

Lev is currently engrossed in *The Eudaemonic Pie*, a nonfiction narrative recounting the audacious attempts of a group of Bay Area physicists in the 1970s to outsmart Vegas roulette. They ingeniously equipped themselves with a microcomputer hidden in their shoe, communicating through discreet foot taps to predict where the roulette ball would land based on various conditions. Lev finds the concept of the “Eudaemon,” initially referring to a lucky spirit, particularly fascinating as it parallels the theme of algorithmic assistance in life.

#### Last Read: *A/S/L* by Jeanne Thornton

In her most recent reading, Lev enjoyed *A/S/L*, a heartfelt and mystical narrative about three trans women navigating the early days of the internet and game development. The story traverses from 1998 to 2016, highlighting the themes of artistic ambition, identity, and the complex dynamics of friendship. Lev emphasizes the book’s universal appeal, beyond its classification as LGBTQ literature, pointing out its profound themes and relatable struggles.

#### Upcoming Anticipation: *Making* by Miracle Jones

Looking ahead, Lev expresses excitement for *Making*, the forthcoming fourth installment in Miracle Jones’ seven-book series, *The Fold*. This series promises a refreshing take on fantasy, steering away from traditional European tropes and embracing distinctly American cultural elements. Lev describes it as a breathtakingly imaginative journey with a blend of horror, sci-fi, and absurdism, showcasing Jones’ unique storytelling style.

#### Memorable Scene: *The Master and Margarita*

One of the scenes that resonates with Lev is from Mikhail Bulgakov’s *The Master and Margarita*, particularly the moment when Margarita transforms into a witch. This scene embodies chaos and liberation, illustrating the exhilarating feeling of breaking free from one’s constraints. Lev appreciates the dark joy captured in this beautifully written moment.

#### A Must-Read Recommendation: *The Goldfinch*

Lev frequently advocates for *The Goldfinch* by Donna Tartt, describing it as a cornerstone of modern literature. With its stunning prose and exploration of themes of loss and belonging, Lev believes it provides an immersive experience that leaves readers feeling as if they have lived through the protagonist’s journey.

#### Desired Adaptation: *Labyrinths* by Jorge Luis Borges

Lev yearns to see Jorge Luis Borges’ *Labyrinths* transformed into a gaming experience, with its complex narratives and infinite possibilities offering fertile ground for interactive storytelling. She draws a parallel between Borges’ writing and gaming mechanics, highlighting the inherent game-like qualities of his stories.

As we conclude this literary exploration with Nadya Lev, her bibliophilic enthusiasm and insights serve as an invitation for others to engage with these works, blending the worlds of gaming and literature in captivating ways.