Alle afleveringen
548 afleveringen, van nieuw naar oud
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Ep 299: Playing genre hopscotch
14 september 2021 · 57 min
Readers, we know it can be tricky to break out of a reading rut, and sometimes it takes a nudge from a friend to try something new.
Michael Clark has a good handle on what he loves to read. From beach reads that don't get the respect they deserve, to stories that acknowledge their literary heritage, he reaches across genres when he's picking up his next book and he's not afraid to put down a book that's not right for him. But today, he's feeling stuck in a bit of a reading drought.
Michael's hoping to reinvigorate his reading life by discovering some books that deliver on his love of well-developed characters while delving into genres he typically ignores, like science fiction.
Be sure to listen all the way through to hear Anne's picks for Michael, including a special bonus selection at the end of the episode today.
Read this episode's show notes, including the full list of books we discussed, at our website. And if you're interested in seeing what Michael reads next, connect with him on Instagram.
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Ep 298: A reading life without regrets
7 september 2021 · 56 min
Today's guest loves Jane Austen, but that's just the beginning for our conversation today.
Cristina Griffin's work life as an English professor often overlaps with her personal love of reading for pure fun! She's drawn to atmospheric stories with brilliant endings and compelling characters, and she's read all the way through many an author's backlist.
Anne recommends books that fit Cristina's desire for contemporary novels that are fun to read and a new-to-her series she can slowly devour. We hope today's episode might inspire you to break down some boundaries in your reading life and find a new, immersive read you'll enjoy.
Visit our website to see the (long) list of books we discussed during this episode! Lees meerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Ep 297: Right book, wrong time
31 augustus 2021 · 38 min
Readers, today’s guest is on the hunt for complex, thought-provoking, and timeless books that have something to say about topics she cares about today.
Maria Carrera lives in Spain, where she teaches English language. Her heart for languages drives both her professional and her reading life! She loves the experience of matching a book to her reading mood - and then choosing which translation of that book to read.
But with so many good books to choose from, sometimes she just needs someone to tell her which book to pull from her ever-growing TBR stack. Today, we'll translate Maria’s book requests into recommendations for reads she can move to the top of her list.
To see the books we discussed in this episode, be sure to check out our website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/297.
Connect with Maria on Twitter and Instagram to follow along with what she reads next. Lees meerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Ep 296: Backlist and brunch
24 augustus 2021 · 49 min
Readers, today’s guest knows that she’s overlooked some amazing books over the last ten years, but she needs a little help to figure out which ones to pick up now.
Amber Burns loves discovering something new in the books she reads, and she's also a mood reader. She's looking for stories filled with believable tension and humor, and she loves a good enemies to lovers trope.
When she’s not reading in the best coffee shops of her beloved Philadelphia or exploring the city’s vibrant used bookstore scene, Amber is hosting her podcast, Thank You For Asking, and working as a content creator.
If you’re looking for a mind-blowing book that keeps you up late turning the pages, we hope you’ll find some suggestions in today's episode.
To see a list of those books check out our website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/296. Lees meerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Ep 295: Unleash your pent-up book energy
17 augustus 2021 · 42 min
Readers, after a move today’s guest craved community and an outlet for her “pent-up book energy.”
She started a book club in her new neighborhood and quickly discovered getting started wasn’t as hard as she thought it would be. Today, Shweta Hegde walks us through the steps she took to form a bookish community and provides some friendly encouragement for you to get that book talk going.
This was only Shweta's latest move: she grew up in India in a military family—so she moved a lot as a kid. In each new town she sought out that magical place that opened up her whole world: the library.
Readers, prepare to be consumed by bookish nostalgia as Shweta recalls her first experience at the library and the magical realization that she could take a whole stack of books home with her. We also talk about how the library never lost its magic, how Shweta continues to love exploring new worlds in the pages of her books, and Anne helps her find books with characters she can really get attached to.
To see a list of those books check out our website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/295. Lees meerOur 300th episode is coming soon! At this momentous occasion, we want to celebrate all that’s happened over the past 5 and a half years—and we’re looking for your input.
We’d love to know something YOU learned from the show. Visit whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/learned300 to learn more about how to participate. We can’t wait to hear from you.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Ep 294: Dickens ruined my reading life
10 augustus 2021 · 39 min
It’s been a long time since we’ve had a teenager on the show—and today’s guest isn’t here to talk about YA. Katie Guenthner has long been reading classics, historical nonfiction, and the most formidable books she can find at the library in order to uphold her status as an “advanced reader.”
After listening to countless readers wax poetic about reading for escape on WSIRN, Katie realized that's what was missing in her reading life. Now she’s ready to trade Charles Dickens for the lighthearted stories she’s been eschewing for too long.
Anne recommends books that will help Katie take herself less seriously as a reader and help her welcome more fun reads to her library holds list. And we guarantee today’s conversation takes some turns you are NOT expecting, that you’re really gonna enjoy. Lees meerVisit our website for the full list of books discussed on today's episode and to leave Katie your recommendations for fun reads she should read next.
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Ep 293: Streamline your (digital) TBR
3 augustus 2021 · 52 min
As a city planner in Calgary, Caylee Dyck knows how to problem solve and prioritize in order to create better communities and a more liveable cities–built environments people feel good spending time in. But when it comes to her reading life, Caylee is struggling to create a pleasing, welcoming, workable model for choosing what to read next. With over 900 titles on her To Be Read list and more than 150 ebooks on her Kindle, she's feeling a bit overwhelmed.
Anne helps Caylee transform her literary landscape with practical, actionable, and sometimes (as you’ll hear) tangible tips for tackling her TBR. Then gets her started off by highlighting a few titles from among her digital ebook downloads that Anne think she’s likely to love.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your unread books, we hope you find a solution that works for you in today’s episode.
To see the list of the books we discuss from Caylee's Kindle downloads, including the books Anne recommends, visit the podcast website at https://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/293 Lees meerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Ep 292: A life-changing library trip
27 juli 2021 · 49 min
Regular listeners know good book talk often blends the heavy and the light—and that is certainly true for today's show. Today's episode is tons of fun, and has us thinking about our own life-changing literary experiences.
As an avid library user and member of two book clubs, our guest Loren Mueller has no problem adding potential life-changing reads to her To Be Read list, and then diving in. But she does have trouble remembering specific details from what she read—and today, we’re gonna figure out what to do about it.
We discuss ways to retain what you read while reading for the fun of it, and why an “easy” reading experience means something different to every reader.
Check out the show notes post on our website for the full list of books discussed today and a transcript of the show. Lees meerOne of my go-to tips for any reader who wants to learn more about themselves as a reader is to start a book journal to capture what they’ve read, what they want to read, and other important info that will better their reading lives. That's why I’m thrilled to offer my own beautiful and functional journal.
The journal is called My Reading Life and it’s available September 21st but you can preorder a copy now and we've got some fun preorder bonuses for those of you who do just that. Learn more about My Reading Life and the bonuses at modernmrsdarcy.com/journal.Thanks to this week's sponsors:
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Ep 291: The best books of summer (so far)
20 juli 2021 · 56 min
Behind the scenes at What Should I Read Next? and Modern Mrs. Darcy, we have a team of readers who are bursting with bookish enthusiasm.
Our producer Brenna paired us up in our virtual recording studio, matching team members you’ve never heard discuss books together on the show. Our reading tastes are vastly different, but we quickly discovered that talking about books creates instant connections—even when reading preferences don’t seem to match up at all.
We had the best time discussing what summer reading means to us, what we’ve read and loved lately, and what we hope to read next before the season is over.
We hope today's collection of bookish conversations inspires you to ask your coworkers, friends, or family members what books they’ve loved recently. And, of course, we hope you find your next great read among the abundance of titles we talk about today.
See all of the books we discuss or follow along with a transcript on the show notes page. Lees meerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Ep 290: Fiction is my oldest friend
13 juli 2021 · 46 min
Today’s guest describes herself as a serial starter who might have started up to 10 books before finishing one. She even keeps moving through several books at once by reading different genres at different times of the day.
Shanel Sparr is an artistic Jill of all Trades–acting, directing, crocheting and designing clothes. But as an avid collector of hobbies, reading still holds a distinct place in her life—and she highly values being well-rounded as a reader.
Shanel loves books that explore a character’s interior landscape, especially when that’s packaged in a surprising way, and doesn’t mind going a bit dark, or eerie. Although she has found she has a limit—and so today I’m looking for titles that walk the fine line of addressing hard things without tipping into overly tragic.
See all of the books we discuss or follow along with a transcript on the show notes page.
You can learn more about all of Shanel's artistic endeavors on her website. Lees meerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Ep 289: A ridiculous plan to read more books
29 juni 2021 · 49 min
Today’s guest created a unique plan to help him tackle the books one “must read before they die,” but now he’s looking for less planning and more bookish serendipity.
Author, blogger, and podcaster Neil Pasricha hosts the show 3 Books, where he talks with avid readers about the three most formative books in their lives. The show originated as a way for Neil to find lesser known titles and backlist books to boost his reading life. Now, he finds himself assigning too much “reading homework,” and he’s looking for ways to spend more time connecting with each book he reads instead of breezing through to the next checkmark on his TBR.
Between two book podcasters we cover a lot of ground today. Be sure to check out the show notes for a full list of the titles. You just might find a formative book for you. Lees meerYou can find Neil writing on his website or follow him on Twitter and Instagram.
And don't forget to listen to my episode of 3 Books recorded (partially) in the Rare Books Room at the Strand.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Ep 288: Looking for that WOW! factor
22 juni 2021 · 45 min
Are you a book collector? Today's guest has a bookshelf full of vintage beauty guidebooks, and though she considers this a separate part of her bookish life, there were some surprising connections to her taste in crime fiction.
After hearing about her collection, you may not be surprised to find out that Brenda LaBelle is a make-up artist turned librarian. She's looking for more than a pretty cover though, Brenda likes books with stylish prose and memorable characters.
Listen now wherever you get your podcasts—and be sure to visit the show website for today's complete book list–including titles you’ve never heard on the podcast. (You'll also find a photo of Brenda's beauty bookshelf there!) Lees meerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Ep 287: I want to be where the readers are
15 juni 2021 · 50 min
Today's guest loves discussing books just as much as she enjoys reading them. She's ready to swap spicy opinions and share book recommendations with her fellow readers, but she hasn't found those fellow readers just yet.
Allison Matz prefers to be Twitter and Instagram-free even though she knows there are vibrant book communities online. Today she comes to us with a question: with no social media, how is an avid reader supposed to connect with her book people? Anne has some advice for Allison, and hopefully you’ll pick up some tips today, too—whether you’re getting ready to meet your book club in person again or are still seeking out your group of readers.
Allison also displays her passion for a genre that doesn't get a lot of love on the podcast.
Visit the podcast website for today's complete book list and to leave a comment for Allison since she's not on social media. Lees meerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Ep 286: How to find those hidden gems
8 juni 2021 · 45 min
If you've been listening to podcasts or tearing through a new series on Netflix instead of picking up a book, we're here to cheer you on (really)! Different forms of art and storytelling can be a refreshing change of pace for avid readers, and taking a break from the books might even benefit your reading life in the long run.
But today's guest came to us with a request for books that will hold his attention and get him back to turning the pages instead of pressing play on another podcast episode. In addition to podcast listening, youth services librarian Hamid Printer enjoys recommending adventurous, exciting books to readers of all ages and hosting epic fantasy game nights for friends.
Anne has a whole lot of books to share with Hamid that will hopefully rival even the most immersive game night or absorbing podcast episode.
Head over to the show notes page on our website for all of the books, podcasts, and games mentioned in today's show. Lees meerYou can follow Hamid on Instagram.
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Ep 285: Books that leave you speechless
1 juni 2021 · 52 min
Even though reading is a solitary activity, you’re never truly alone as a reader. You’re never the only reader who prefers dog-eared pages to bookmarks or the only reader who reads the last page first.
Today’s guest used to feel self-conscious about her affection for stories that explore difficult themes. But we know that Rachel Matthews isn’t the only reader who enjoys darker fiction. In fact, I’m willing to bet that some of you have been waiting for an episode with a reader just like Rachel.
Check out the full list of books from today's show at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/285 Lees meerIf Rachel's dark side sounds like your book twin be sure to follow her on Instagram.
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Ep 284: I need an irresistible read this summer
25 mei 2021 · 46 min
Over the last year, we’ve talked to readers who voraciously devour romance, mystery, and graphic novels to escape real life—and readers who struggle to pick up a single book, even if they know it’s one they’ll love. There’s no right way to respond to stress as a reader, and today’s guest is here to share encouragement and insight for readers experiencing burnout.
Journalist Anne Helen Petersen writes the weekly email newsletter Culture Study and recently published Can’t Even: How Millennials Became the Burnout Generation—today, we discuss how all of us, millennial or otherwise, have experienced the burnout associated with a global pandemic and seen its effects in our reading lives.
No matter how your reading life has changed, or stayed the same, over the last year, you’ll find comfort in today’s episode, as well as insight into your experience this past year.
Visit the show notes page on our website to get the full list of books discuss and to read along with a full-show transcript. Lees meerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Ep 283: Don't save the good stuff
18 mei 2021 · 56 min
This episode has literally been years in the making: today I'm thrilled to welcome Ginger Horton, our Modern Mrs. Darcy Book Club community manager, to the show!
The 2021 Summer Reading Guide is about to drop, and in this celebratory episode, Ginger shares her three favorite backlist summer reading guide selections, and I recommend three books I think she’ll love from this year’s summer reading guide. Of course, we can’t help squeezing in extra book talk, as we often do, so listen in for a pile of both backlist and brand new summer reading recommendations.
Be sure to visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/283 for today's complete book list. Lees meerTo get in on the summer reading fun be sure you're subscribed to our weekly newsletter so you'll get the Summer Reading Guide when it comes out May 24th. You can also join us live for the Summer Reading Guide Unboxing and get an expanded guide early by becoming a member of our Patreon community.
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Ep 282: I’m a little bit obsessed with reading
11 mei 2021 · 53 min
I think many of you will relate when you hear today's guest say he’s “a little bit obsessed with books.” This is definitely a good thing for Jeremy Anderberg because not only is reading a source of enjoyment and intellectual satisfaction, it’s also a key part of his job as a writer and podcast producer. He writes for The Art of Manliness blog, produces The Art of Manliness podcast, and publishes the "Read More Books” newsletter.
Today we discuss the difference between finding what you like to read versus what you feel you should read. We also discuss finding seasonal rhythms in your reading life, finding books so compelling it feels like the pages turn themselves, and why Jeremy finds it so satisfying to give his reading life some structure with “projects” he plans for himself.
To see all of Jeremy's project books and Anne's recommendations visit the show notes page at https://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/282 Lees meerTo read Jeremy's book reviews, follow him on Instagram and Twitter, or subscribe to his weekly newsletter.
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Ep 281: Authors who make you feel seen
4 mei 2021 · 56 min
Lecturer, author, and researcher Heather Williams has left trails of books across the globe as she travels for work, but today she’s bringing us three favorite essay collections she can’t live without.
Heather’s love of bite-sized reading experiences is contagious. If you’ve never picked up an essay collection, she just might convince you to do so today. We also discuss her preference for reliable narrators, a surprising fascination with Russian literature, and a book that made Heather laugh a little too loudly while reading on a plane.
I happen to love personal essays just as much as Heather, and I can’t wait for you to listen in on our conversation, readers. For a list of all of the books, essay collections and novels, head to the show notes page on our website: https://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/281 Lees meerFollow Heather Williams on Twitter to learn more about her research.
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Ep 280: Epic journeys, untold stories & guaranteed great reads
27 april 2021 · 42 min
After becoming an avid WSIRN listener, today's guest realized she was watching less TV and reading more books. To keep her momentum going, she connected with other listeners, found her favorite reading categories, and now sits down with Anne to chat about a classic WSIRN problem: the compulsion to finish every book she starts.
Today we're joined by Stacy Wittenberg, who talks to Anne about that inclination and about a reading challenge she’s taken on for this year. Anne recommends books that will take her on epic historical journeys, plus an audiobook that will have her neighbors asking What is she laughing at? when she listens on her daily stroll.
Stacy shares extra titles in each of her reading categories, so get your TBR lists ready and be sure to pull up the podcast website to see the list of all the title she (and Anne) share. That's at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/280. Lees meerAs a listener, Stacy has been connecting with other fans of the show online. Now that you've heard her, if you'd like to connect with Stacy follow her on Instagram.
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Ep 279: Read these books when you need a good cry
20 april 2021 · 44 min
Over the years Ahtoosa Dale sent in multiple submissions to be on What Should I Read Next, each one reflecting her ever-evolving reading taste. Since that first submission way back in 2016, her reading life has changed tremendously.
Now, as a lawyer and a mom with a packed schedule, she’s more willing than she once was to set certain books aside. And as an adult, she’s looking for relatable characters—especially if the book explores the immigrant experience. But Ahtoosa will never say no to a good mystery, or a book that explores the range of human emotions.
Ahtoosa specifically requested books that will give her a good cry, so on today's episode I’m recommending a few heartfelt books to bring on the tears, plus a propulsive page-turner in one of her go-to genres.
Find the list of books we talk about today and a full transcript that you can follow along while you're listening on our website. Lees meerYou can fill out your own guest submission form on our website.
Thanks to our sponsors:
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Ep 278: The Art of cheat reading
13 april 2021 · 53 min
Mindy Mejia enjoys propulsive, fast-paced books with strong characters—and she writes them, too! Mindy writes thrillers, or as she calls them “murdery books,” but she reads from a whole banquet of literature.
Anne got to talk with her about setting reading intentions, sampling books—which, as you’ll hear, is a bit of a euphemism—and learning about surprisingly fascinating topics as we read. As always, she recommends a handful of books we think Mindy will love, including an upcoming thriller that Anne loved, a nonfiction book she wasn't expecting to be talking about today, and selections from a genre that doesn’t get mentioned all that often around here.
To see a list with those titles and all of the books we mentioned visit the show page at https://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/278. Lees meerFind out what Mindy Mejia is reading and writing on Twitter, Instagram, Goodreads, or her website.
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Ep 277: Books that feel like a vacation for your brain
6 april 2021 · 37 min
Today Anne is talking with Jake Sloofman, an arborist living in Brooklyn. They discuss his big reading goal, the pressure to read “serious literature,” and how to alternate light and heavy reads for a balanced reading life. So Anne serves up a mix of weighty literature and frothy “palate cleanser” books to keep things balanced.
View the full list of titles and a transcript of the episode on our website https://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/277. Lees meerYou can follow Jake on Instagram.
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Ep 276: Exquisite, evocative novels
23 maart 2021 · 48 min
Podcast producer and PhD student Sara Aeder always finds time for reading, thanks to audiobooks and a passion for turning the pages. She has a special fondness for books that explore the “exquisite pain of a teenage crush” and let her live vicariously through fictional drama, but Sara’s taste in books goes way beyond young adult lit.
Today on the podcast, Sara shares three books she loves that cover the main themes of her reading taste, and I recommend several titles that I think she'll love.
We mention over 40 titles in today’s episode, from all-time favorites to books that fell flat. Listen in to find out which book Sara threw across the room and be sure to check out the full list of every single book we talk about on our website. Lees meerYou can follow Sara on Instagram or check out her work at Tablet Podcasts.
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Ep 275: How many book clubs is too many book clubs?
16 maart 2021 · 49 min
How do you manage your reading life when you have many books you NEED to read, and many more you'd LIKE to read, just for you? In today's episode we're diving into that question with Brigid Misselhorn, a self-described "book club addict" who offers insight into this highly relatable question.
Bonus: Brigid describes herself as a "naturally slow" reader; we know many of you love it when our guest's reading life mirrors your own in this specific way.
From graphic novels to gothic mysteries, today’s titles are a lot of fun. This is one of those episodes where I have to try several times to find the right titles that Brigid hasn't read yet! Be sure to visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/275 for today's complete book list–it's a long one. Lees meerTo see her latest buddy read follow Brigid on Instagram.
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Ep 274: #Bookstagram made me do it
9 maart 2021 · 39 min
Readers, the origin story for today’s episode might make you swoon. It all started with a conversation on Instagram, where Anne got a message from one incredibly intentional boyfriend hoping to make some bookish dreams come true. After learning more, we invited his girlfriend Ashley on the show, and I’ll let her tell the whole story today.
Ashley Parrish is a book lover and self-proclaimed TV junkie who enjoys scrolling bookstagram but wants to find more backlist titles instead of picking up every book that garners a lot of buzz on social media—we know many of you can relate. Today, Anne is sharing three (or maybe a few more) titles to satisfy Ashley’s love of page-turning fiction and books that revolve around the performing arts.
Visit the podcast website to see all the books discussed in this episode or to follow along with a transcript of the show.
You can follow Ashley on Instagram, where she shares her recent reads. Lees meerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Ep 273: Realism, redemption, and reading across generations
2 maart 2021 · 47 min
Readers, today’s show is a de-light. We have had mother-daughter duos on the show and even a father-daughter duo with Ashley and Brent from episode 155, but today Anne talks with Rebekah and Beverly, our first grandmother-granddaughter pair — and Beverly is our first nonogenarian!
When Rebekah sent in a guest submission she included three books she and Beverly both love, but then she put her own fun twist on the rest. She told us one book that Beverly loved and Rebekah hated, and another Rebekah loved but Beverly hated. Anne's tricky task is to find three books they’ll both enjoy reading together. As you'll hear, it turns out the options were plentiful. In fact they get a few bonus recommendations. Lees meerAll of the books Beverly, Rebekah and Anne discuss are on our podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/272 as well as a full transcript of today's episode.
Beverly is not on social media, but you can find Rebekah on Twitter.
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Ep 272: I loved the library before it was cool
23 februari 2021 · 38 min
Today Anne's guest is an Alabama teacher whose love of reading has touched every aspect of his life—from where he met his wife to the theme of his classroom today. Derek is a MATH teacher but he puts his reading right there on the wall for his students to see and he loves talking books with fellow teachers.
You're going to love this conversation about his early library adventures, the books he’s passing down to his son, and the gorgeous engagement photos he and his wife took in the library where they met.
Derek knows his go-to AND the font that tells him this book is right for him–but he’s challenging himself to try and push some boundaries and not be quite so carefully curated. Anne's challenge is to recommend three books that are right for where he is in his reading life right now.
Visit the show page for a list of all of the books discussed and to leave your own recommendations for Derek. Lees meerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Ep 271: Because sometimes a 4.75 star rating feels right
16 februari 2021 · 53 min
How do you track your reading life? Today's guest has a whole new system of book tracking and reviewing to share. Anne is talking with Nadia Odunayo, the reader and entrepreneur behind The Storygraph, a brand new website full of tracking tools and detailed rating systems to help readers go beyond a book’s jacket copy and filter through information to find what they’re really looking for.
We love hearing behind the scenes stories and it was fascinating to hear Nadia explain how this creative endeavor came to be. We also mention a bunch of books that have never made it on the podcast before and Anne recommends a couple of genres that haven't gotten much attention on the podcast. We can't wait to hear which titles end up on your TBR lists.
Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/271 for the full list of titles Nadia and Anne discuss. Lees meerFind Nadia and The Storygraph on Instagram, Twitter or The Storygraph website.
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EP 270: When you NEED a season of low-stress reading
9 februari 2021 · 41 min
Readers, in today's podcast episode, I’m talking with graphic memoirist and comic creator Lucy Knisley. We chat about her overflowing bookshelves, the pleasures and pitfalls of the creative process, what makes the perfect pandemic stress read, and how to cope with your kids’ evolving reading tastes. Lucy is looking for distraction in her reading life right now and needs some low-stress books to read before bed; I have plenty of recommendations to suit her taste (and fill your to-be-read lists).
We’ve never talked about graphic memoirs and comics in-depth on the podcast before. I can’t wait for you to hear Lucy’s enthusiasm for comics, graphic novels, and what those terms even mean. Lees meerThe audio for this episode comes from a live event that we hosted in the Modern Mrs. Darcy Book Club. We read Lucy’s graphic food memoir Relish as a bonus book club pick last month, and this What Should I Read Next-style event was an extra sprinkle of bookish joy for our book club members.
Join us for a Patreon livestream!
Readers, it’s time for our quarterly Patreon livestream! Next week, we'll be hosting a virtual chat in our Patreon community. We’ll hang out, answer your questions, and (of course) share a bunch of book recommendations.
To learn more about our community or to join us for our livestream on Tuesday February 16th at 1 pm click here.
If you can’t make it live, we’ll record the event so members can watch it at any time.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Ep 269: Your friendly neighborhood literary society
2 februari 2021 · 44 min
Today’s guest is Tiffany Patterson, a Florida reader who created a new kind of literary get-together that is convincing her not-so-readerly friends to give books and reading a chance. She breaks down all the details of her brilliant idea so that you can steal it and start your own group.
This episode was recorded in 2019 and aired as Episode 166: Just don’t call it book club. That means this was pre-Covid, so we talk about getting together as actually getting together. It also means that some of you have already heard this and told us that you’ve borrowed Tiffany's format for your own use, and it’s vastly improved your reading life and your relationships.
If you're one of them or you find the idea of a neighborhood literary society intriguing, let us know in the comments of today's show notes post.
You can follow Tiffany reading life on Instagram. Lees meerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Ep 268: Our team's best books of the year
26 januari 2021 · 52 min
At the end of last year we hosted a virtual book party in the Modern Mrs. Darcy Book Club to celebrate our favorite books of the year. The whole What Should I Read Next and Modern Mrs Darcy teams shared their top books of 2020 and we all walked away with a longer To Be Read list.
Our team is made up of a bunch of bookworms with very different reading tastes, but that doesn’t stop us from swapping book recommendations all the time. We recorded that event (as we do with all of our Book Club events), and WSIRN producer Brenna worked her editing magic to create this episode for you.
Head to our website to see the list of everyone's recommendations. Lees meerIf you’d like to see us talk about these books, the video recording of this event is available in the Modern Mrs. Darcy Book Club, our member community devoted to bookish community, classes, and conversation. In addition to events like these and classes on the reading life, every month we read one main book together and meet to discuss it on video—often with the author—including recent book club discussions with Anne Mah, Elizabeth Acevedo, Tayari Jones.
Join today to catch up on all of our past events and to participate in our upcoming live discussion with author Louise Miller or our next class Clean Out the Bookish Clutter.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Ep 267: Lush, beautiful, and a pleasure to read
19 januari 2021 · 54 min
Our guest today is an economist and literature enthusiast based in London, England. A well-traveled reader in every sense, Stephanie De Mel has lived on multiple continents and combines her love of travel and books in her Reading the World Challenge. Steph’s sense of curiosity informs her book choices and her broad reading tastes challenge Anne to recommend three books to suit.
Steph also shares how she applies her analytical tendencies to her reading life–looking at her bookish data while focusing on quality over quantity.
Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/267 for a full transcript of the show and to see the list of titles mentioned. Lees meerConnect with Stephanie on Instagram @thebookisheconomist.
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Ep 266: Ask Anne Anything: Re-reads, reviews, and recommendation regrets
12 januari 2021 · 1 uur
Readers, it’s the 5th anniversary of What Should I Read Next! Today I'm answering YOUR questions about WSIRN's behind-the-scenes, my personal reading life, and so much more. Thank you for submitting such thoughtful and fun questions! I did my best to answer as many as possible, and you can find answers to frequently asked questions linked in the show notes below. Happy reading!
-Anne Lees meerVisit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/266 to see the full list of titles discussed, an episode transcript, and more.
Where to find Anne online:
• The What Should I Read Next newsletter
• What Should I Read Next on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram
• Anne on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram
• Anne's blog Modern Mrs Darcy
• What Should I Read Next Patreon community
• Modern Mrs Darcy Book Club
• What Should I Read Next YoutubeLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Ep 265: 10 questions to ask yourself about your reading life
5 januari 2021 · 1 uur 12 min
Readers, we’re kicking off the new year with a special episode to help you set the right tone for your reading life in 2021. My friend Laura Tremaine is joining me to guide us in some readerly introspection. Laura hosts the Ten Things to Tell You podcast, where she shares guided questions and prompts to help listeners reflect on different aspects of their lives. Laura brings her expert skills as a conversation-starter to our literary therapy session today.
Here at WSIRN, we love thinking about books almost as much as we love reading them, so today we’re sharing 10 questions to ask yourself about your reading life. These questions are meant to help you read with purpose and create a reading life that YOU love.
Of course, we can’t help but share our own answers and offer advice along the way. Whether you’re too easily distracted by shiny new bestsellers, or simply in need of a new reading routine, I hope you enjoy this intentional time to reflect on and recharge your reading life.
Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/265 to see the full list of titles discussed, an episode transcript, and more. Lees meerWhere to find Anne online:
• The What Should I Read Next newsletter
• What Should I Read Next on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram
• Anne on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram
• Anne's blog Modern Mrs Darcy
• What Should I Read Next Patreon community
• Modern Mrs Darcy Book Club
• What Should I Read Next YoutubeLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Ep 264: Compulsively readable literary fiction
22 december 2020 · 44 min
Anne's challenge today is to share recommendations for books with unique and artful structures.
Today's guest is a Chicago-based mood reader with a contagious love of books. When Anna Morton isn't working or volunteering for the Art Institute of Chicago, she's reading “compulsively readable literary fiction,” a term Anne fondly coined for books with the perfect combination of page-turning plot and stunning prose.
Reading is also a family affair for Anna, who proudly plays the role of “literary commissioner” for their Literary Christmas tradition, which Anne eager to implement with her family now — and maybe you will too! Lees meerVisit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/264 to see the full list of titles discussed, an episode transcript, and more.
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Ep 263: It's okay to quit reading
15 december 2020 · 46 min
Today’s guest also loves giving recommendations—to her boss, to her mom, and to strangers standing in the book aisle at Target. For Jenica Salazar, nothing is more satisfying than recommending the right book to the right reader. But today, she’s here for a little bit of literary therapy for herself. Anne chats with Jenica about a common bookworm problem: the guilt of giving up on a book that’s just not keeping your attention. They're also working out reading routines and making Jenica's reading life run more smoothly.
Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/263 to see the full list of titles discussed, an episode transcript, and more. Lees meerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Ep 262: Books that deliver a little depth, a little distraction
8 december 2020 · 46 min
Today’s guest tells a familiar story: he loved reading as a kid, but as an adult without a Scholastic book fair to look forward to, he fell into the habit of rereading or staying in his “safe zone” of sci-fi and fantasy. Geologist Max Lemoine needed just the right book to pull him out of his reading rut. He’s eager to uncover more titles that are outside of his reading comfort zone, so today Anne is recommending books with depth that also offer distraction from everyday life and books with immersive world-building.
Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/262 to see the full list of titles discussed, an episode transcript, and more. Lees meerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Ep 261: Huggable comfort reads for a cozy reading season
1 december 2020 · 51 min
Readers have asked us for “comfort reads” over and over again this year — and it's totally understandable. “Comfort read” means something different to every reader, but if you’re looking for books that slow your heart rate, soothe your soul, and make you want to travel to a quiet English village, this episode is for you.
Today’s guest Gina House appreciates cozy, comforting reads that feel like a warm hug. She adores cozy mysteries like Agatha Christie novels, but she could do without the murder. So today, Anne recommends charming books that pair well with a comfy chair and a cup of tea. Lees meerVisit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/261 to see the full list of titles discussed, an episode transcript, and more.
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Ep 260: A little free library with a life of its own
24 november 2020 · 54 min
Sara Jones takes her role as “neighborhood library curator” seriously. In addition to selecting books for her own reading life, Sara Jones carefully curates her Little Free Library collection to reflect the reading tastes and needs of her community. She likes to feature a healthy mix of books for kids and adults, and she’s always on the lookout for fiction that her neighbors will find irresistible as they’re walking by.
Today, Anne helps Sara stock her Little Free Library with crowd-pleasing books her neighbors will love, from charming picture books to unputdownable contemporary fiction. If you’ve ever strolled by a Little Free Library and wondered how it works or how to start your own, this episode is for you. Lees meerVisit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/260 to see the full list of titles discussed, an episode transcript, and more.
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Ep 259: The formula for a 5-star read
17 november 2020 · 54 min
The sci-fi genre feels like home, but Emily Van Ark also enjoys books in any genre that deliver on a fabulous premise. In her day job as a data scientist, Emily nalyzes data in order to find patterns and make recommendations for improving people’s lives... and Anne's job this week is to do some helpful data analysis for her reading life (with less math and more conversation). Emily also shared a bunch of sci-fi recommendations to expand Anne's reading horizons.
Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/259 to see the full list of titles we discussed, an episode transcript, and more. Lees meerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Ep 258: Reading for peace, joy, and escapism
10 november 2020 · 53 min
Reading for pure escapism means something different for every reader. Some of us turn to puzzle-like mysteries, some of us immerse ourselves in fantastical worlds. Today’s guest stays away from doom scrolling by reading lots and lots and lots of romance. “Recovering English major” Jenna Lowenstein still enjoys the occasional literary fiction read, but these days she’s picking up the books she wants to read instead of forcing the books she feels like she should read. From spicy romance novels to thrillers with deep themes, books help Jenna set aside her high-pressure job in politics and engage with the world ...without looking at her news app. Lees meer
Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/258 to see the full list of titles we discussed, an episode transcript, and more.
You can follow Jenna on Twitter & Instagram @just_jenna
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Ep 257: Let’s build your holiday book list
3 november 2020 · 1 uur 1 min
Our annual holiday recommendations episode is here! A few weeks ago, you called us with your bookish gift buying questions and dilemmas, and today Anne is answering those questions alongside Beth Buss, the general bookstore manager at Bookmarks, a literary arts nonprofit in downtown Winston-Salem North Carolina.
Beth and Anne will help you find just the right gifts for their loved ones of all ages and reading tastes, from classic kid lit to science fiction… and everything in between. Lees meerVisit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/257 to see the full list of titles we discussed, an episode transcript, and more.
Learn more about Bookmarks, including the Book Build project Beth mentions, on their websit bookmarksnc.org. If none of our recommendations fit the reader in your life their Signed First Editions Club or their Kids’ Club would also make great gifts. And keep an eye on their events page as they continue to have great online events and are looking forward to the next Bookmarks Festival–a bookish bucket list event.
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Ep 256: The perks and pitfalls of omnivorous reading
27 oktober 2020 · 50 min
Reader Cliff Cullen was in the middle of his best reading year ever when...the pandemic hit. His one-time favorite reading habits, like listening to audiobooks during his commute, have had to change—but his voracious appetite for books remains the same. Today, Anne recommends books in a wide variety of genres to suit Cliff’s eclectic reading taste and push the boundaries of his typical book selections. Also discussed: “themed” reading based on seasons or settings, reading your cookbooks, and the special accomplishment of reading every single book by your favorite author. Lees meer
Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/256 to see the full list of titles we discussed, an episode transcript, and more.
You can follow Cliff’s cookbook adventures on Instagram @cookingwithclifton.
Our next livestream with our Patreon members is this Thursday. Join Brenna and Anne to ask them anything and to participate in a little live literary matchmaking. Find out more at patreon.com/whatshouldireadnext.
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Ep 255: Spine-tingling reads for a confirmed scaredy-cat
20 oktober 2020 · 57 min
Valencia Taylor is self-proclaimed book-pusher looking for reads that fall on the line between just-spooky-enough and way-too-scary, compelling stories that teach her something new about the world, and a way to keep track of her reading life. Of course, as a fellow book-pusher, Anne has plenty of recommendations and practical tips to share... Lees meer
Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/255 to see the full list of titles we discussed, an episode transcript, and more.
You can follow Valencia’s reading life on Instagram @vtaylor42
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Ep 254: A plethora of political(ish) book recs
13 oktober 2020 · 1 uur 8 min
Anne is joined by Sarah Stewart Holland & Beth Silvers of Pantsuit Politics podcast to discuss fiction and nonfiction recommendations that have shaped their understanding of politics, history, and what it means to be a human in this world. They're each sharing "political" books they personally love and often recommend, because they are fascinating, thought-provoking, and sometimes surprisingly page-turning. Lees meer
Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/254 to see the full list of titles we discussed, an episode transcript, and more.
Readers, the holidays are fast approaching and around here we’re of the opinion books make the perfect gift, whether you’re shopping for friends, family, coworkers, or teachers. But choosing the right title can be tough, so it’s become a tradition on WSIRN to have a special guest join me on the show to help us match YOUR loved one with the perfect readerly gift. If you want our help building your bookish shopping list, there are two ways to participate:
Leave me a voicemail from your phone or computer at speakpipe.com/whatshouldireadnext sharing who you’d like a gift recommendation for, a couple of books they love, a book or genre you know they don’t like, and any little details you think are useful. Please make sure to keep your message under 1 minute!
You can also email our producer Brenna at brenna@modernmrsdarcy.com with the same details - who your giftee is, their favorites, their least favorites, and whatever else you think would be helpful
We’ll squeeze as many submissions as we can into the upcoming holiday episode, and hook you up with the perfect bookish gifts!
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Ep 253: A whole bunch of book recs, from our team of readers to you
29 september 2020 · 46 min
Hey readers! Get your TBRs ready, because today’s episode contains a TON of book titles for a wide array of reading tastes, from a few voices which might sound familiar if you’ve been a long-time WSIRN listener.
A few weeks ago, we asked the Modern Mrs Darcy and What Should I Read Next team to share their own summer reading recaps for a special Patreon bonus episode. Today, as we honor the change of the seasons (or perhaps cling fiercely to our page-turning beach reads), we’re sharing the full audio of that bonus episode here.
If you’re a patreon member who’s already listened—well, first of all, thank you! And KEEP LISTENING, because today you’ll hear Brenna and Anne will be sharing some of our favorite summer reads as well, a brand new addition to the original bonus episode.
Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/253 to see the full list of titles we discussed, an episode transcript, and more. Lees meerWe share bonus episodes like this one every week on Patreon – there’s over 20 hours of bonus audio waiting for you. Our community members get those regular extra doses of book talk, plus bonus content like our printable Summer Reading Guide and our new Fall Book Preview digital magazine, PLUS our video Unboxing events and member-only Ask Us Anything sessions. We’d love to have you join our community of avid readers: Become a member today at Patreon.com/WHATSHOULDIREADNEXT!
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Ep 252: Books that send you racing to Google
22 september 2020 · 41 min
Today's guest wants surprising books with unique story structures, new information, and plot twists that will make her say, “what did I just read?” Shelly Akins is a proud Arizonian who is always reading. And when she isn’t reading, she loves attending the Tuscon Festival of Books, a huge literary festival where both book talk and fangirling are welcomed.
We eagerly await the day we can gather for book festivals again, but in the meantime, Shelly finds community in her Book Challenge Group, which is not a traditional book club. Talking books with fellow readers has helped Shelly hone in on her personal reading taste and decide what she wants more of in her reading life. Today, Anne's recommending three titles to surprise and delight this avid reader!
Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/252 to see the full list of titles we discussed, an episode transcript, and more. Lees meerYou can follow Shelly's reading life on Instagram @shellyreads.stuff.
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Ep 251: I love books and books love me back
15 september 2020 · 49 min
Today’s guest is a self-proclaimed “book glutton” who reads in between everyday moments at home, at work, and even while she’s walking. Grettel Castro is a biostatistician living in Miami, Florida. She emigrated to the United States from Cuba at the age of 14, but her voracious appetite for reading started much earlier. Readers, I’m sure many of you will relate to Grettel’s story of falling in love with books as a young reader, as well as her current mixed feelings on big literary award-winning novels.
Grettel loves backlist books, or as she says, older novels that have “simmered” for a while, and has mixed feelings on which books take home the big literary awards... so today, in addition to getting tips on reading with an open novel in my hands, I’m recommending three great books with literary staying power.
Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/251 to see the full list of titles we discussed, an episode transcript, and more. Lees meerYou can snoop on Grettel's reading life on Instagram @6wordsbookreviews
We're going back to Book School! This season we’re learning to read better, together—excessively nerdy and super enjoyable classes that will help you go deeper with your books, brighten your book talk, and have more fun in your reading life!
Book School is part of the Modern Mrs Darcy Book Club, so you’ll get to pair what you’re learning with the books we’re reading and the authors we’re chatting with this fall.
Book school is under way so join now.
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Ep 250: I want a book that reads like a love letter
8 september 2020 · 49 min
Today’s guest has a story that sounds like the beginning of a juicy historical fiction novel.
As a teenager, Liz Maguire came across a batch of 1920s love letters at a flea market. This launched an obsession with collecting vintage letters and preserving people’s personal correspondence as a piece of history. Of course, this project has had a marked affect on her reading life, so Liz has come to Anne looking for books that measure up to the detailed, intimate depictions of the real stories found in her vintage letters.
Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/250 to see the full list of titles we discussed, an episode transcript, and more. Lees meerYou can learn all about Liz’s project at fleamarketloveletters.com and see the letters yourself on Instagram @fleamarketloveletters
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