Book Club Night Kit

The Dungeon Anarchist's Cookbook

Matt Dinniman

Cozy night

Carl and Princess Donut head underground into a subway system full of monsters, and it's as funny, chaotic, and surprisingly tender as the first two books. It works well for a cozy night because under all the explosions it's really a story about sticking together when everything is falling apart.

Welcome to the Safe Room

Come in from the monster-filled subway for stew, cocoa, and warm conversation about The Dungeon Anarchist's Cookbook. Pajamas are welcome, and pants are optional (Carl would approve).

Reading level: Easy

Best for: A laid-back group of friends who like big laughs, big hearts, and trading favorite moments over a warm mug

Discussion

Warm-up

1.If you could have a cat companion like Princess Donut curled up next to you tonight, what would she complain about first in this room?
2.Where were you, and what were you snacking on, the first time this book made you laugh out loud?

Digging in

1.Carl keeps showing up for the people around him even when he's exhausted. Who in your own life is your 'Carl,' the steady one who keeps you going?
2.The dungeon is terrifying, but the books keep finding small pockets of rest and safety. What does a real safe room look like for you after a hard week?
3.Donut can be vain, dramatic, and fiercely loyal all at once. Did she remind you of anyone you love (pet or person), and what makes that mix so endearing?
4.The humor in this book sits right next to some real sadness. Has laughter ever helped you get through something heavy, and did the book bring that to mind?

Going deep

1.Thinking about the whole book, was there a quiet moment of kindness or connection that stayed with you longer than the big action scenes? Why do you think it hit you so hard?
2.By the end, how do you feel about the way Carl is changing? Did it make you worried for him, proud of him, or a little of both, and has it changed how you think about staying yourself under pressure?

On the table & to sip

To eat

Safe Room Beef Stew in Bread Bowls

A hearty, slow-simmered stew that tastes like finally making it to a safe place after a long crawl. You can make it a day ahead, so the host gets to relax too.

Subway Platform Soft Pretzels with Warm Cheese Dip

A nod to the underground transit setting and to the snacks you grab at a station, served warm and buttery so they feel cozy instead of like fast food.

Princess Donut's Royal Tuna Melts

Golden, gooey tuna melts cut into small triangles, fit for a cat who demands only the finest. They're easy to make and filling, and they always get a laugh.

To sip

Loot Box Hot Cocoa Bar (no alcohol)

Rich hot chocolate with a 'loot box' of mix-ins (marshmallows, crushed peppermint, caramel, sprinkles) so every guest gets a surprise reward.

Crawler's Spiked Mulled Cider

Warm spiced apple cider with a splash of bourbon or spiced rum, a comforting reward for surviving another floor.

Coast Guard Honey Chai (no alcohol)

A soothing honey-sweetened chai in honor of Carl's Coast Guard past. It's warm, steady, and dependable, just like him. Serve a caffeine-free rooibos version for later in the evening.