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The Book Review Podcast

The podcast that takes you inside the literary world. apple podcasts | spotify | stitcher.

Why Did the First Space Shuttle Disaster Happen?

Adam Higginbotham discusses his new book, “Challenger: A True Story of Heroism and Disaster on the Edge of Space.”

Talking to Leigh Bardugo, Fantasy Superstar

The best-selling author of dark fantasy novels for Y.A. and adult audiences discusses her career and her stand-alone new historical fantasy, “The Familiar.”

A Conversation With Colm Tóibín

The Irish author discusses “Long Island,” the sequel to his 2009 novel “Brooklyn.”

Book Club: Let’s Talk About ‘Good Material,’ by Dolly Alderton

The writer Dolly Alderton has long had an avid following in her native England, but with her best-selling comic novel “Good Material” she’s become a trans-Atlantic success.

100 Years of Simon & Schuster

The publisher has gone through a lot of changes since its founding in 1924. Its current chief executive, Jonathan Karp, talks about the company’s history and its hopes for the future.

Talking 50 Years of Stephen King

On this week’s podcast, we talk to the novelist Grady Hendrix and TV showrunner Damon Lindelof about the work and influence of Stephen King.

Our Critics Talk About the Novels That Make Them Laugh

Dwight Garner, Alexandra Jacobs and Jennifer Szalai weigh in on 22 of the funniest novels since “Catch-22.”

Talking to Tana French

The great Irish crime novelist talks about her newest series.

Talking ‘Dune’: Book and Movies

The Times’s critic Alissa Wilkinson discusses Frank Herbert’s classic science fiction novel and Denis Villeneuve’s film adaptations.

Book Club: Let’s Talk About ‘Erasure,’ by Percival Everett

A scathing satire about race, publishing and identity politics, Everett’s acclaimed 2001 novel is the basis of the Oscar-nominated movie “American Fiction.”

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Blog – Posted on Wednesday, Aug 23

40+ best book review podcasts of 2024.

You might have heard about Bookstagram, BookTok, and BookTube, but have you found your favorite bookish podcast yet? With over a third of the world’s population turning to reading during the Coronavirus pandemic, podcasting in general, and podcasts about books specifically, are seeing a huge boom.

With plenty of book podcasts and reading clubs to choose from, we’ve scoured the airwaves and curated more than 40 of the best podcasts that entertain, inspire, review , and — most importantly — recommend the best books for your reading pleasure.

General book review podcasts

Let’s start with the giants, these podcasts are big and talk about all things books, from literary fiction to niche nonfiction. The books come from both big trad publishers and little indie presses and what ultimately ties them together is the stories at the heart of it all, the experiences of the authors, and the advice we all wish we’d heard earlier. 

1. The Maris Review

Hosted by the cultural critic and bestselling author of Slaughterhouse 90210 , Maris Kreizman, the Maris Review  goes beyond the book covers and tries to get to the core of what inspires authors, from films, to music, to popular phenomena.

Coming to the microphone with warmth, depth of knowledge, and thoughtfulness, Maris’ goal is to let her guests shine and she has a true gift for pulling each morsel of literary goodness from her guests, one succulent bite at a time. Listening to the Maris Review will solidify your love for reading and instill an insatiable hunger for more books — RIP your TBR list.

Apple | Spotify | Stitcher | Lit Hub Radio

2. NPR Book of the Day

Want to know if a book is worth reading in 15 minutes or less? NPR’s got your back! The much-loved, bite-sized radio show is a popular podcast that regardless of genre, mood, style, or author, seeks to make reading accessible to everyone, while tackling the big questions of our time.

Whether you’re searching for your next read, or a recommendation for a friend, NPR’s short-form interviews got you covered, keeping you up-to-date with the latest bookish news and your shelves stacked. 

Apple | Spotify | Google Podcasts | Amazon Music

3. Book Fight

Despite the podcast name, Mike Ingram and Tom McAllister are good friends, writers, and long-time editors for Barrelhouse literary magazine and publisher. Taking a lighthearted approach, Mike and Tom engage their audience with humor, candor, and insights into the world of publishing and writing, welcoming listeners to sit in on genuine conversations rather than lectures while answering the question we’re all asking ourselves: what should I read next?

Each week they’re joined by authors whose work ask tough questions, offer harder answers, and seek to connect us all through our love of literature — no fighting involved. 

Apple | Spotify

4. The LRB Podcast

Decreed the ‘leading magazine of culture and ideas of Europe’, the London Review of Books podcast is a weekly conversation on literature hosted by Thomas Jones and Malin Hay. Often joined by their editors across the pond and other writerly guests, the hosts dive deep into the question of what makes great literature great .

With a goal to enliven and enrich their audience, the show is like waking your brain up with a (legal) stimulus better than coffee. From looking at how Ovid influenced the writing of Chaucer to how we can understand contemporary giants like David Foster Wallace through the lens of #MeToo, no work or angle is left unturned with LRB. You’ll find yourself relistening to episodes not just for the joy the podcast brings, but to sharpen your own critical reading and appreciation for the written word. 

Apple | Spotify | Google Podcasts

5. The Worst Bestsellers

Writer Kait and librarian Renata read books so you don’t have to. Well, that’s not quite true. Intrigued by the appeal of bestsellers, the two read the latest ‘Big Thing’ to try to understand what people love about them, and maybe, what you could love too — or why you might want to avoid it. 

Filled with plenty of humor and joy, Kait and Renata invite listeners into their cozy space and ask themselves “How did this get made?” or “How is something so questionable in quality this big ?”. Swearing they’re not snobs, they read everything with an open yet critical mind and are quick to indulge in a laugh at the book’s expense,never the reader. 

Homepage | Apple | Stitcher | Spotify | Deezer

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6. What Should I Read Next?

Aptly named What should I read next? , Anne Bogel’s podcast seeks to give readers all over the ether an answer to that very question. Each week, Anne — also known for her Modern Mrs Darcy blog — sits down with a reader and learns what they love, what they hate, and what they’ve read before, all in a bid to guide them towards what they should read next. With an encyclopedic mind for books (and a great team to back her up), Anne’s suggestions are always on point, as she has something up her sleeve for every type of reader. A bookish agony aunt of sorts, Anne wants you to read and love what you read. Don’t we all Anne, don’t we all…

Apple | Spotify | Overcast | Stitcher | Google Podcasts

7. Fully Booked

From the editors of Kirkus Reviews, Fully Booked : is a podcast unafraid to tell you which books to pass on and which are worth your time.

More like a coffee shop discussion, Fully Booked hosts regular author take-overs, inviting you directly into their minds and keeping the content constantly fresh. So clear your reading schedule: this podcast will keep you “fully booked” for the foreseeable future. 

Apple | PodcastOne | Spotify  

8. Book Riot

In Book Riot’s mainstage podcast, the editors of the website, Jeff and Rebecca, offer exciting and satisfying book recommendations to their listeners: titles that may otherwise have flown below your radar or bestsellers you were ready to write off. 

With eyes and ears on the publishing industry, they discuss everything from self-publised gems to traditionally published giants. They’re unapologetic about their opinions — making for an entertaining listen — but do not claim to be all-knowing tyrants of taste. Readers should all find their own happy space in literature, and Book Riot wants to help you do just that.

Apple | Spotify | Google Podcasts | Stitcher  

9. You’re Booked

Ever wonder what’s on your favorite author’s shelf? Or what book they borrowed and never returned to the library? Daisy Buchanan’s You’re Booked asks questions like “What is a forbidden book you read under the covers?”, or “What intellectual-doorstopper do you pretend to have read?”

If you love books and loooove learning why people pick what they do, then Daisy’s podcast is for you. From treasured memories of reading, to wasted hours of scribble, Daisy and her guests seek to help readers read more and revel in the company of other book lovers.

Apple | Spotify | Acast

10. Celebrity Memoir Book Club

Claire Parker and Ashley Hamilton are two New York comedians who read celebrity memoirs to give you the low-down in a fun and informative way. The hilarious duo wade through the sometimes delightful, sometimes insightful, but mostly egocentric world of celebrity memoirs with such humor and wit that their review can be just as good as the book itself. 

The Celebrity Memoir Book Club is a hilarious take on an industry that often takes itself too seriously. This is the perfect podcast to settle into if you just want to have a good time and love a bit of juicy gossip. 

Apple | Spotify | Audioboom | Youtube

11. The Stacks

Traci Thomas is your host for The Stacks book review podcast, and if your TBR list isn’t bursting already, this is an absolute must-listen. Probing her guests with questions relating to which reads changed their life, which authors made them see the world in a new light, and how politics and race are now more important than ever in writing, Traci and her guests breaks down a new book every week — one onion layer at a time. Even if not every book takes your fancy, the discussion is thought-provoking, humorous, and always engaging. It's well-worth your time.

Apple | Podcast Addict

12. KCRW Bookworm

KCRW Bookworm began airing in 1989 with the goal of making reading accessible, encouraging both entertaining and thoughtful writing, and provoking listeners to make reading a lifelong habit.

Legendary Michael Silverblatt interviews guests from every corner of the publishing world and the show is underpinned by a deep love for reading not just as a pastime, but a way of life.

Apple | Spotify | Google Podcasts | iHeart Radio

13. London Review Bookshop Podcast

Not to be confused with the LRB podcast, the London Review Bookshop podcast is recorded in the eponymous bookshop in Bloomsbury, London, where two new authors come together each episode to discuss life, love, books, and writing in front of a live crowd of customers. 

From fiction to poetry, nonfiction, and politics, this show gives authors a soapbox to stand on and makes for an intellectually stimulating and entertaining listening experience that will give you plenty of fodder for debate. 

14. Radio 4 Books & Authors

BBC’s radio stations are institutions in and of themselves, but their podcast Books & Authors on channel 4 is something else altogether. Compiling two similar shows into one book review podcast — Open Books and A Good Read is hosted by Harriet Gilbert and discusses her favorite reads, upcoming titles, and the books you really should read. Cobbled together with guests you’ll love, these articulate and witty discussions are often just as interesting as the books themselves, so come prepared for books to be read, thoughts to be had, and friends to be made. 

Apple | Spotify | BBC Sounds

15. The Guardian Books Podcast

Though it officially aired its last episode in 2022, we highly recommend that you go back and mine the rich backlog of The Guardian Books podcast for a phenomenal source of in-depth interviews with authors from all over the world. Covering every topic and genre under the sun, the hosts know how to sell a book to their readers, while also deepening your knowledge and understanding of the context it was written in. If you’re looking for one of the greats of book reviews — and maybe some backlist titles to add to your shelves — this is it.

Homepage | Apple | Spotify | Soundcloud

16. Between the Covers

If you’re in search of a profound listening experience, then go no further. David Naimon’s Between the Covers is the rich and well-researched conversation on literature you never knew you were missing, produced by the Portland-based publishers Tin House. And if you don’t want to take our word for it, it has been recognized by none others than the Guardian, Book Riot, the Financial Times, and BuzzFeed as “one of the most notable book podcasts for writers and readers around.” 

Making sure to research his guests thoroughly, David approaches each episode with care, inviting writers of all ages and voices to take you on a journey into the world of books, guiding you towards not only the next book you could read, but the next story you could love. 

Apple | Stitcher

17. All the Books

All the Books is a podcast dedicated to new releases, specializing in what’s hot, what’s new, what’s quirky, and what’s recommended.

Full of recommendations to pick and choose from, host Liberty Hardy (and her adorable cats) are purr-fect companions for your morning commute, a stroll through the forest, or an evening in front of the fireplace. As entertaining as it is witty, the goal of this show is to to keep you informed and make sure you don’t miss your favorite author’s newest title or any upstart debutants

Apple | Spotify | Stitcher | Google Podcasts

18. Debutiful

If you really want to keep an eye out for the next big thing, this debuts-only club, hosted by Adam Vitcavage, is a podcast entirely devoted to first time book publications. Together with his guests, Adam talks about writing habits, inspiration, and the process of getting your first book published.

If the book doesn’t always sound like your jam, there’s a wealth of knowledge and inspiration to be had in each episode, as authors share ideas and intriguing suggestions for craft practice as well as candid glimpses into what goes into the ‘making-of’ a debut...

19. TwoLitChicks

Hosted by writers and avid readers Julia Boggio and Ed Crocker, TwoLitChicks is a podcast about loving books and loving writing books. Setup like a Desert Island Discs, the hosts talk with authors about the books they read which changed their lives and how that affected their writing. Divulging books published across the entire publishing spectrum, be they traditionally or self-published , Julia and Ed get to the core of what makes these authors and their work tick. From beautiful debuts to written-word masters, TwoLitChicks cracks plenty of eggs of writerly wisdom.

20. Slate’s Audiobook Club

You’re already looking for podcasts on books, so why not podcasts on audiobooks? Hosted by Slate magazine’s critics, this audiobook podcast is perfect if you’re looking for insights on what does well in the audio format. Taking the form of a panel review show, the group discusses classics, new releases, underdogs, and forgotten gems, always with the auditory experience in mind. 

For readers who are listeners , this pod will give you plenty of solid recommendations to choose from. That’s if you can remember to write them down. Your TBR has been warned.

Diversity in publishing podcasts

While self-publishing allows many more voices to be heard and stories to be told, one of the most important changes taking place in the industry at large is the opportunities for diversity in publishing . The podcasts below champion voices that have not always been given their due space, discussing award winning works and stories that will shape our next generations .

21. Well-Read Black Girl

Glory Edim is not only the writer and founder of the Well-Read Black Girl book club, but also an advocate of the written word through the podcast medium. Her goal has always been to give readers the literary booster shot they never knew they needed and, as a host, she seeks deep and honest conversations to bring us all together via books. The WRBG podcast explores not just the power of books, but their place in a world where art, social justice, and literature are colliding. From paying homage to iconic literary women, to promoting the most important voices of today, Glory and her guests discuss what they’re reading, what it means to be “well-read,” and what you should pick up next.

Apple | Spotify | Stitcher

22. Minorities in Publishing

When Jenn Baker began the Minorities in Publishing podcast her goal wasn’t just to bridge the gap in diversity in publishing, but to blow the doors down and give authors the love they deserve. With topics ranging far and wide, Jenn discusses the publishing industry, books and authors writing fantastic stories, and the best tips for those wishing to write themselves. 

With authors and genres spanning from children’s , to YA , graphic novels , upmarket fiction and beyond, the goal here is to show you how many storytellers roam this planet with unique stories to tell, making us believe we can do it too. 

Apple | Spotify | Google Podcasts | iHeart Radio | TuneIn Radio

23. Storykeepers Podcast

Hosted by Jennifer David and Waubgeshig Rice, Storykeepers is unlike any other book review podcast around. They only champion Indigenous voices. From authors, publishers, booksellers, to readers, Storykeepers treasures the experiences of Indigenous, First Nation, Inuit, and Métis stories.

Whether it’s debating an idea, laughing over a character, or discussing the changing landscape and opportunities within Indigenous publishing, Jennifer and Waubgeshig aim to bring these fantastic stories and authors to more people’s attention. Don’t miss this one.

Apple | Spotify | Amazon

Coming to you from Amman, Jordan, and Rabat, Morocco, friends Ursula Lindsey and M Lynx Qualey, talk about all things books and publishing in the modern Arabic-speaking world. 

Named after the first printing press established in Egypt in 1820, Bulaq is indispensable for anyone wanting a contextualized view of translated Arabic works in English. Together, Ursula and M Lynx discuss the books which are changing them, have changed them, and that they hope might change you too, showcasing the richness of modern Arabic literature.

Apple | Spotify | Google Podcasts | Deezer | Anghami | Castbox

25. What’s My Therapist Reading?

Hosted by therapists Caleb Matthews and Mary Hoofnagle, What’s My Therapist Reading? is a podcast dedicated to both fiction and nonfiction titles, but with a twist. Their emphasis is on bringing visibility to mental health, physical and mental disabilities, and if their representations in literature help or hinder people’s understanding. From episodes dealing with autism to family dynamics, the two discuss triggers in books and how the intended audience of a book may differ to a reading audience. Diversity in publishing is leading to more and more titles being released that represent all of the reading audience, not just the loudest voices.

Apple | Spotify  

26. Books & Boba

Hosted by Marvin Yueh and Reera Yoo, Books & Boba discusses Asian and Asian American literature , looking at everything from contemporary fiction, historical fiction , sci-fi , fantasy , YA, nonfiction , thrillers , graphic novels, and memoirs — always delivering great recommendations and thoughtful insights.

With the dynamism and banter of best friends, Marvin and Reera spotlighting the industry at large, while highlighting emerging authors alongside (sometimes) forgotten classics. Run, don’t walk to your nearest podcast distributor to tune in.

Apple | Spotify | Google Podcasts | Pocket Casts | Radio Public

Romance fiction book review podcasts

Are you looking for the next read to sweep you off your feet ? Presenting you with sizzling heroes and smoldering heroines, these podcasts spread the word on the biggest genre in publishing and bring the authors behind the stories to the forefront. Read on to find your perfect match.

27. Big Gay Fiction Podcast

Husbands Jeff Adams and Will Knauss created the Big Gay Fiction podcast for one reason and one reason only: to spread their love of queer fiction , and specifically romance queer fiction. Each week, they bring in authors they adore, books that they want to spotlight, and ideas worth discussing in the queer space of publishing.

Their interview style is as friendly as it is charming, making their listeners feel as comfortable as their guests. If you’re looking for witty views on the MM genre and more than a few great reads to add to your pile, then Jeff and Will have more than enough up their sleeves.

Apple | Spotify | Google Podcasts | Amazon Music | Youtube

28. The Sapphic book review

Hosted by Laura Green, the Sapphic Book Review champions all things Sapphic fiction. From reviews of books to interviews with the authors themselves, Laura asks hard-hitting questions which shed new light on sapphic love in literature. If you’ve been wondering which book you should read next and have been struggling to find your sapphic lit fix, Laura has you covered.

Homepage | Apple | Spotify | Amazon Music | Overcast | Castro

29. Sentimental Garbage

Whether it makes you blush or makes you cry, Caroline O’Donoghue’s Sentimental Garbage is a book review podcast that advocates for all the books we love — even if society makes us feel like we shouldn’t. Beginning as a self-professed chick-lit podcast, with some good Sex and the City detours, Sentimental Garbage has grown larger to encompass a wider definition of guilty pleasures.

Caroline’s goal is interviewing authors and guests that are oh so relatable because, at the end of the day, a good book is like a companion. Trading quick quips, Caroline and her guests are always a pleasure to listen to as they discuss books they love and hate, tropes they despise and get giddy over, and characters that make them swoon. For them, stories are not about how much you know by the end, but about how much you feel. 

Apple | Deezer | Acast  

Children & YA lit book review podcasts

Whether you’re trying to encourage your kids to read more, are searching for the next Percy Jackson or Hunger Games , or learning how to make your dreams a reality — the pods below are all about books, authors, and writing in the Children’s, Middle Grade, and Young Adult sphere.

30. Hey YA!

What Book Riot is doing for Young Adult lit is what everyone else wants to do. Their Hey YA podcast may not feature Outkast, but brings great reads to the growing generation. With stories and styles from everyone’s favorite genres, Kelly, Eric, and Sarah recommend books which aim to be as inclusive as possible, as page-turning as possible, as hashtagable as possible, and — more than that — books readers of all ages can see themselves in. 

If your TBR list isn’t bursting at the seams after discovering Hey YA then you haven’t listened close enough. No longer just a stepping stone to great literature, YA has eeked out a legitimate and thriving space of its own, so if you think YA deserves more attention, then you’ll find like-minded people here.

Apple | Spotify | Google Podcasts | Stitcher

31. First Draft Podcast

First Draft with Sarah Enni at the helm is a podcast for storytellers to talk about how art informs their lives. Sarah comes to each episode with the honest intention of getting to know her guests, asking great questions and getting even better answers. First Draft will introduce you to new sides of the publishing industry, while discussing the next best-book-you-haven’t-read-yet.

While not strictly children’s and YA, Sarah does talk to a lot of children’s and YA authors. She underlines the importance of these works because it is often the books we read as children that define us as adult readers. Though currently on hiatus, you can still revel in the long list of past episodes available via select podcast distributors.

32. Write or Die Podcast

Write or Die isn’t just about the joy of storytelling, but about the gritty, infuriating, and pull-your-hair moments when you want to give up but don’t. Claribel A. Ortega and Kat Cho are both powerhouse authors in the YA realm and invite you to join them on their Write or Die podcast, where you’ll learn to love even the parts of publishing you hate. 

Bursting with inspiration, this podcast is about the stories which make the storytellers. Great for writers of all ages and genres, the lessons here are just as fantastic as the books they discuss. If you’re looking for a light in the dark tunnel of writing, this is it.

Apple | Spotify | Google Podcasts | Radio Public | Pocket Casts

33. 88 Cups of Tea

While Yin Chang is perhaps better known for her work as an actor, she’s always been a prolific reader and writer. Driven to help others tell their story, 88 Cups of Tea is a space to sit with industry professionals and authors and get to the heart of what drives them. From inciting incidents to query letters , Yin delivers all she can to help writers find their way.

Of course, along the way she discusses plenty of books, inspiring and thought-provoking quotes, and the realities of publishing. 88 Cups of Tea has built a community of readers and writers that inspire and entertain each other in the process of creating the next big thing. Pens down and ears up, and get ready to find your reading or writing mojo with this podcast.

Apple | Spotify | Stitcher | Player FM

34. This Creative Life

Whether leading solo-episodes or riding shotgun with a guest, Sara Zarr sits down to shine a light on the bizarre and satisfying world of writing in her podcast This Creative Life . Focusing on the practical tips and psychological aspects of writing, This Creative Life makes a point of inviting guests to share their life experiences and how they came to write their books. 

From plotting to pantsing, This Creative Life is a podcast which inspires writers to constantly evolve and create. It is the act of creation which nourishes us, and the act of telling our stories which makes them real. From children’s to YA and beyond, no story is too small or too big to be told, or no failure too grand to come back from. Sarah endeavors to inspire the next generation to tell the story of their generation.

Apple | Spotify | Amazon Music

35. Your Kid’s Next Read

If children are our hope for a better future, then Allison Tait and Megan Daley are going to help you find the books to foster your kids reading habits. Co-founders of the Your Kid’s Next Read community, these author and teacher-librarians kept receiving and asking themselves the same questions so they made YKNR to try to find answers. Discussing everything from YA blockbusters, middle grade adventures, and junior fiction to getting those training wheels off, their book recommendations are top notch.

Full of tips to get your little ones loving reading, they also recommend what else they could be into. This podcast is lighthearted, fun, engaging, and geared towards helping your kid find their next read. If you want to bulk up your kids reading list, or encourage those who wish to spread their wings and write, this one’s for you. 

Homepage | Apple | Spotify

‘Classics’ of literature book review podcasts

We all have lists of books we wished we’d read, have meant to have read, or just never got around to reading. These podcasts are for you. More than that, they make the case for why the classics are deemed ‘classics’, and give a few recommendations for books to read before you die along the way.

36. Backlisted

When the book is just as much a guest as the guest themselves, you know you’re onto a winning formula. Hosted by John Mitchinson and Andy Miller, Backlisted invites writers to bring a book they wish more people knew about. Championing the underdogs, these episodes are often thoughtful observations on style and writing, referencing great ideas which may have gone unnoticed by the public at large. 

This is a podcast for those who want to read widely and expand their idea of what constitutes a ‘classic’, beyond Austen and Dickens , and contemplate what distinguishes truly outstanding writing.

Homepage | Apple | Acast | Overcast

37. Overdue

We all have those books we’ve been meaning to read; the ones that sit at the bottom of your TBR list, dusty and mothballed under the weight of everything else. Podcasters Andrew and Craig are the same, but now they’re doing something about it. Overdue tackles those classics you should’ve read, those obscure plays referenced by your obscure writing professor, or just those books you never got around to reading. Just as funny as it is analytical, Andrew and Craig delve into books you’d never thought to read and the ones you claim you’ve read — from childhood oddities to canon soliloquies, Overdue brings book reviews to a whole new, hilarious level. Get your pen ready to take some notes.

38. Novel Pairings

Self-professed nerdy bookworms Sarah and Chelsey, the hosts of Novel Pairings , are on a mission to make the classics readable, relatable, and, most importantly, relevant. Armed with good taste, better banter, and incredible recommendations, Novel Pairings breaks down the false perception that you have to be ‘educated’ to enjoy classics and keeps the classics exciting while avoiding the pomp. 

Sci-fi/fantasy & comics podcasts

Speculative fiction has fired up the imaginations of readers and writers for centuries. With hundreds of classics already written in this space, these podcasts keep an eye to the past while looking towards the future, diving into little-known sub-genres and household favorites alike. Tune in: there are new worlds to be explored!

39. The Legendarium Podcast

Welcome to the lands of speculation and worldbuilding.Hosted by Craig, Ryan, Kyle, and Stephanie, the Legendarium Podcast is an epic call to adventure for all things sci-fi and fantasy. 

Appreciating the classics as much as the new releases, the Legendarium quartet and their guests offer glimpses at the industry, views on books they love and hate, and recommendations on what to read next. If you want to hang out and listen to your favorite authors talk shop, grab a tankard of ale or a Pan Galactic Gargle Blaster, and prepare to be entertained.

40. SFF Yeah!

SFF Yeah! fails in only one thing: keeping your book-buying ban intact. Sharifah and Jenn divulge their favorites as well as regretted reads, taking the time to discuss what works and what doesn’t, along with what makes it uniquely special in the speculative genre. Aware that we’re all different, if there’s anything they feel that might be triggering, Sharifah and Jenn always preface books and ideas with a warning, but, as we’re all here for the books (and a little bit of the chatter) they’re not shy to predict your next favorite read. Heck, it’s the future! Even if it’s 1984 …

41. The Stack

If you like the graphic novel artform then this is the space for you. This tasty podcast comes to you every week from the Comic Book Club and is hosted by Alex, Just, and Pete, discussing all things comics and visual storytelling.

Like a mashup of your much preferred roller rink DJ (err yeah) and a real book review radio show, the Stack aims to get you loving comics and appreciating the craft of this artform as much as you would any other. With good taste, good chats, and even better recommendations, they could make even the staunchest Marvel fan into a DC dabbler.

Apple | Podbean | Google Podcasts | Radio Public | iHeart Radio

If you’re looking for more auditory content, why not check out our article on the 60 best audibooks of all time or our tips on where you can find free audiobooks ?

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The 27 Best Book Podcasts

For when you put your book down.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Without further ado, here are 27 recommendations for book podcasts spanning genre (fantasy! romance ! classics!) and location (books in translation! Indigenous authors! books from the Middle East!). There's something for everyone here—just as long as you love to read.

NPR's Book of the Day

Released daily, NPR's Book of the Day podcast is an under 15-minute listen on good reads and book news. As NPR describes , "Whether you're looking to engage with the big questions of our times—or temporarily escape from them—we've got an author who will speak to you, all genres, mood and writing styles included."

It's great for discovering new books to add to your reading list.

Well-Read Black Girl

In 2015, Glory Edim launched Well-Read Black Girl—a book club turned literary festival turned podcast. The podcast launched on February 1, 2022, and Edim wrote on Instagram that she'd "been dreaming of making this podcast for years." The first episodes feature conversations with Min Jin Lee, Tarana Burke, Anita Hill, and Jacqueline Woodson. The podcast will also include interviews with WRBG Book Club members, Black booksellers, and more. It's not to be missed.

Debutiful is a website and podcast where readers can discover new authors through interviews and recommendations. Hosted by Adam Vitcavage, the show only features debut authors—and their fresh voices are key. In each episode, Adam goes in-depth with a writer about their first book and what inspires them. If you're someone who loves reading the acknowledgements section—there's nothing better—this podcast truly delivers.

The Maris Review

Maris Kreizman describes herself as a "writer, editor, reader, fan," and her insights on books are not to be missed. The cultural critic is the author of the bestselling Slaughterhouse 90210: Where Great Books Meet Pop Culture . On her podcast, she talks to authors you should know about their own books and the books they love, the shows and films they’ve watched, the music they’ve listened to, and the links they’ve clicked.

The Book Review

The New York Times Book Review is legendary. Naturally, it makes sense they'd have a podcast to complement their coverage. Each week, authors and critics join host Pamela Paul and editors at Times Book Review to talk about bestselling books, what they're reading, and what's going on in the literary world.

Overdue is a podcast about the books you've been meaning to pick up. Hosts Andrew Cunningham and Craig Getting work through their backlog and share with each other what they've been reading. "Sometimes that means complaining, sometimes that means championing," Craig explains . From classic literature to children's books, they read it all. Literally they have episodes on everything from Fifty Shades of Grey or Homer's Odyssey.

Celebrity Memoir Book Club

In Celebrity Memoir Book Club , New York comedians Claire Parker and Ashley Hamilton read celebrity memoirs so you don't have to. Each episode features a different celebrity memoir—from Emily Ratajkowski 's My Body to Will Smith 's Will —and Claire & Ashley are simply hilarious.

Storykeepers Podcast

Storykeepers: Let's Talk Indigenous Books is a monthly podcast hosted by Jennifer David and Waubgeshig Rice. Each episode, they're joined by a guest host to discuss books by First Nations, Métis, and Inuit authors. Their goal is to "bring conversations about Indigenous books to a wider audience in an audio book-club format." And though they release only one episode a month, it's worth the wait.

The Hey YA podcast from Book Riot focuses exclusively on young adult literature. Hosts Erica Ezeifedi and Tirzah Price discuss great new YA books and favorite classics, and cover book news, adaptations, and so much more. For YA fans: this is for you.

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The Writer's Voice

Ever wanted to hear a New Yorker writer read their story to you? Look no further than The Writer's Voice , where New Yorker fiction writers read their stories from the magazine. A recent favorite was Matrix author Lauren Groff reading her story "Annunciation" from the February 14 & 21, 2022 issue of The New Yorker.

Books & Boba

Books & Boba is a book club dedicated to spotlighting books written by authors of Asian descent. Every month, hosts Marvin Yueh and Reera Yoo pick a book by an Asian or Asian American author to read and discuss on the podcast. They also interview authors and cover publishing news. Notably, they read a wide-range of genres—from fantasy to memoir—so there's something for everyone.

Novel Pairings

Novel Pairings is a podcast "dedicated to making the classics readable, relevant, and fun." Each episode, hosts Sara and Chelsey discuss one classic book and share recommendations for more contemporary reads that feature similar themes.

Three Percent

In the United States, about 3% of all books published are works in translation. The Three Percent podcast, presented by the University of Rochester’s translation program, hopes to bring attention to these books—with the goal that "reading literature from other countries is vital to maintaining a vibrant book culture and to increasing the exchange of ideas among cultures." Chad W. Post of Open Letter Books and Tom Roberge of New Directions and Albertine Bookstore host.

Harry Potter and the Sacred Text

This podcast is so much more than a Harry Potter book club. Rather, as the hosts explain, "this podcast creates time in your week to think about life’s big questions. Because reading fiction doesn’t help us escape the world, it helps us live in it." Hosted by Vanessa Zoltan and Matthew Potts, the show "allows listeners to find meaning through a secular text that they love" by re-reading the Harry Potter books.

On the Road with Penguin Classics

On the Road with Penguin Classics is a literary podcast that takes a stroll around the world's favorite books. In each episode, author Henry Eliot travels to a different literary location to explore a book in the company of remarkable readers. For example, in a season two episode , Henry travels to Dublin to discuss Irish novelist James Joyce.

Book Friends Forever

Ever wanted to know about children's book publishing secrets? Look no further, because best friends Grace Lin and Alvina Ling have the podcast for you. Grace is NYT bestselling author and illustrator and Alvina is the VP and Editor-in-Chief at Little, Brown Books for Young Readers.

Friends to Lovers

Each week, hosts Mackenzie Newcomb and Lily Herman use romance novels as a jumping off point to talk about sex, relationships, dating, and love. The podcast is presented by Bad Bitch Book Club , an online book club community.

Brooklyn Public Library launched a podcast because, as they explain , "Brooklyn has so many stories to tell, and a lot of them start at the library." The library's flagship podcast, Borrowed, is hosted by librarian Adwoa Adusei and director of marking Krissa Corbett Cavouras. Each episode doesn't feature a book review or interview, but rather, stories from Brooklyn—stories from the library, Brooklyn history, and more. Even if you've never been to Brooklyn, you will like Borrowed . Plus, each episode comes with a reading list. What more could you want?

The LRB Podacst

The LRB Podcast brings you what it sounds like: weekly conversations from The London Review of Books . It's not specifically all about books, but covers everything from Elizabethan True Crime to anti-vaxxers, so you know you will be tuning in to a fascinating conversation.

The Worst Bestsellers

In The Worst Bestsellers , w riter Kait and librarian Renata read bestselling books in an attempt to understand their appeal. As the disclaimer on their website reads: "We want to be clear about something: we’re not snobs, honestly. If somebody only ever reads James Patterson books, or vampire books, or magazines: more power to them, we say. We’re reading these books because we’re curious about what’s popular, and also, reading these books gives us a better idea of what’s popular and how to give good readers advisory. We make jokes about the books we read, but our intent is never to make fun of readers ."

Emily Burack (she/her) is the Senior News Editor for Town & Country, where she covers entertainment, culture, the royals, and a range of other subjects. Before joining T&C, she was the deputy managing editor at Hey Alma , a Jewish culture site. Follow her @emburack on Twitter and Instagram .

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Podcast Review

The 10 Best Book Podcasts

F or a solo pastime, reading can also be a rather social activity. Indeed, many of us love talking about books just as much as reading them, which helps explain why podcasts about books are so plentiful. But for all the choice, the book podcast genre is starved for innovation. Author interviews, although inspiring, quickly become repetitive. And many shows feature the same guests promoting the same books. To remedy this, some podcasts begin with an enticing conceit — Book fights! Desert island novels!— but these ideas are often revealed as gimmicks. Others, merely dull. Just as reading shouldn’t be a chore, neither should listening to a podcast.

Rather than dwell on tired formats, we should tune into the shows that make us feel zealous about reading. As well, book podcasts allow us glimpses of other people’s shelves, creating a sense of community with readers that we’d never otherwise meet. What better way to find your next great read? With all of this in mind, here are the best book podcasts to get you excited about reading.

Borrowed , despite its name, feels original. Plenty of public libraries now have their own podcasts. Many of them are excellent, like those from the NYPL . Borrowed , by the Brooklyn Public Library, does things a bit differently. The show has moved away from interviews and book reviews to deliver stories sourced from its local community, stories like the history of Black women’s suffrage, why Brooklyn produces so many great writers, and tales from the library itself, asking that question we’ve all been dying to have answered: “What do librarians do all day? ” In a similar political vein, the show’s latest episodes focus on banned books. You don’t have to live in Brooklyn to enjoy Borrowed, as each episode comes with its own curated book list, making the show a great resource that reminds us why we must fight to keep public libraries open.

Hosted by writer Adam Vitcavage, the book podcast Debutiful is a show celebrating the strange, thrilling, and often terrifying experience of being a debut novelist. Listening to an interview with an author still wet around the ears is a gratifying experience. Sure, missing will be those pearls of wisdom that only come from writers who have been working for decades, but these newbies add an essential perspective on contemporary fiction. Fresh voices like Brandon Taylor, Cherie Jones, and Zak Salhi remind us that great new talent is emerging every day. Vitcavage is a host who believes in his show, making Debutiful a slick and rewarding passion project.

The LRB Podcast

The London Review of Books is a literary institution. In circulation since 1979, the publication has also launched a bookshop in the trendy neighbourhood of Bloomsbury that plays host to many high-profile literary readings. If you consider yourself to be “well-read,” you’ve likely picked up an LRB at least once. Their podcast could have been pretentious. It could have been dry. But through careful curation and the right hosts, the show has become almost canonical in the book podcast genre. Hosts Thomas Jones and Malin Hay discuss all manner of subjects, from current affairs to Agatha Christie. One of the reasons that The LRB Podcast is compelling is that is examines the world from a literary perspective, rather than analyzing books from an outsider’s vantage. It will appeal to those who still distinguish between the “private” and “public” spheres — or if you have an opinion on George Orwell that has very little to do with whether you enjoyed 1984 .

Whether you’re a defender of the canon or hungry for new literature, everyone has a list of books they’ve been meaning to read but haven’t quite got around to. Steinbeck, Austen — heck, have you read The Satanic Verses ? Overdue is a podcast that rescues these sorts of books from your backlog, throwing contemporary literature and children’s books in with the classics, even covering high fantasy and cult favorites in the process. But if you’re feeling guilty for never finishing Middlemarch , worry not. Hosts Andrew Cunningham and Craig Getting have no interest in making you feel bad about your literary limitations. Overdue is a celebration, not a critique. And, most importantly, it’s a show packed with humor and insight. You can hear the joy the hosts take from reading radiate through the airwaves — after all, serious literature doesn’t need to be a drag. Just watch out for spoilers.

If Books Could Kill

Following the success of You’re Wrong About and Maintenance Phase , podcaster Michael Hobbes launched his newest show last year to immediate acclaim. If Books Could Kill is a podcasts that debunks popular self-help and “smart thinking” books commonly purchased at airports and quickly discarded at your nearest thrift store. Think Atomic Habits or Rich Dad Poor Dad. With the addition of his pleasantly droll co-host Peter Shamshiri of 5-4 fame, Hobbes has perfected a popular format that could reinvent itself endlessly. As far as independent podcasts go, this is how to launch one. As we’ve mentioned before, the quest to “debunk” something because it’s harmful is a fair pursuit. Debunking things just because they happen to be popular, however, risks becoming self-indulgent. Nevertheless, If Books Could Kill is one of our favorite launches in recent memory.

Sponsor Terrible Book Club

You know those books that make you ask yourself, “Who could possibly be reading this?” Well, Terrible Book Club probably is. If you’ve ever been morbidly curious about what’s really going on in those cursed pages, join Chris and Paris every other Tuesday to find out!

The New Yorker: Fiction

The New Yorker: Fiction podcast features a monthly reading and conversation with some of the most renowned, exciting, and accomplished writers working today. Interviewed by the magazine’s fiction editor herself, Deborah Treisman, each guest reads a piece of prose — most often a short story — by another author previously published in The New Yorker . This podcast perfectly blends discussion with an exploration of the magazine’s vast archive, providing a pleasurable insight into how writers inspire each other with their work.

NPR’s Book of the Day

NPR’s Book of the Day is a daily show focused on the latest novels, poetry collections, and children’s books, delivering inspiring conversations in the time it takes to drink your morning coffee. The podcast doesn’t discriminate against genres, either. Non-fiction, sci-fi, and fantasy books are all considered, allowing the listener (read: me) to expand their literary horizons. As is typical from NPR, the production is smooth. Smoother, even, than your medium roast. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the pace of our world, Book of the Day is a welcome addition to a slower morning routine.

Backlisted has been around for almost a decade. In that time, it has grown to become one of the most popular book podcasts in the genre. Rather than focusing on the latest releases, the show turns attention to older novels, particularly 19th and 20th-century works. The show’s appeal can be attributed to a few things. Consistency. Knowledgeable guests. Steadily improving cover art. But the thing that keeps listeners coming back is the genuine fondness for literature that is palpable from everyone involved. You can fall in love or rekindle your interest in a novel after finishing an episode — a rare feat, even in a genre abounding with praise for reading.

Book podcasts tend to have two main problems: on the one hand, they can be rambly and unfocused; on the other, they can be so specific that their discussions become dry. Backlisted avoids both of these traps. Hosts John Mitchinson and Andy Miller know their James from their Wharton.

Self-described as “tough love for literature,” I would say that Book Fight pulls no punches, but the hosts would probably make a comment about my use of cliché. Hosts Mike Ingram and Tom McAllister are happy to give critiques, making examples of essays, classic literature, and the occasional contemporary novel for their literary hot takes. Their comments are constructive and, admittedly, often warranted. Their analysis of the legacy of David Foster Wallace is the highlight of their compelling creative nonfiction season, a great example of content that appeals to readers and writers alike. Book Fight has created an active listener community by inviting their audience to respond with their own criticism, a welcome inclusion in the show, if only for comments like this: “I don’t agree with everything Mike and Tom say… but the opinions are considered, entertaining, and often funny.”

Reading the Room

Every year, at literary festivals around the world, writers and readers gather for talks about books. It’s a simple format. A moderator offers a vaguely sycophantic line of questioning to a tired contemporary writer who will inevitably dodge the subject to return, once again, to their reading of Freud. Or Marx. Or — well, you get the picture. Nevertheless, the literary scene can’t get enough. Some people love talking about reading more than actually reading. If your feed is full of book podcasts, you might be one of them. We don’t judge. And the host of Reading the Room won’t either. Host Jaylen Lopez, of YouTube fame, invites literary writers to discuss their latest work in conversations that could be plucked from a sell-out talk at The Strand or Books Are Magic. If you are between literary festivals, Reading the Room will tide you over.

Alice Florence Orr is a staff writer and assistant editor for Podcast Review . She is based in Edinburgh. You can connect with her on Twitter or read her work on aliceflorenceorr.com

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39 of the best literary and book podcasts for book lovers

From light-hearted conversational podcasts, to live talks from world-renowned writers, these shows are the perfect audio fix for book lovers who like to delve beyond the book. 

What a life it would be to read books all the time – just reading all day, inhaling stories like air. But we can't, because in life we have to do things like driving and bathing our kids and putting up shelves in which books, alas, are just plain dangerous.

Fortunately, for those moments, we have podcasts, which are the next best thing. So, here are 39 of the best literary podcasts, from discussion groups to reviews to author interviews, to dive deeper into the world of books.

The Penguin Podcast

Where else to start than with our very own Penguin Podcast? Featuring leading writers and pioneering thinkers, this fortnightly conversation asks authors to bring along a selection of objects through which we explore their inspirations, aspirations and the struggles they've faced along the way. Recent guests include Alexander McCall Smith, Paula Hawkins, Adam Kay and Zadie Smith – and with objects as varied as a replica Roman sword, a wooden carving of two cats and a bone-cutting saw there's never a dull moment on this podcast.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Acast  | Amazon Alexa

The Maris Review

Cultural critic and write Maris Kreizman talks to authors (and celebrities) about their own books and the books they love, as well as the TV shows and films they’ve watched, music they’ve loved, and what they’ve been reading online. Recent guests include George Saunders, Rumaan Alam and Kiese Laymon.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts

On the Road with Penguin Classics

This new podcast from the Penguin Classics’ team takes a stroll around the world’s favourite books. Hosted by editor, and author of The Penguin Classics Book, Henry Eliot, each week the podcast will head to a different literary location to explore a book in the company of readers. 

Books & Boba

If you’re looking to expand your knowledge of Asian and Asian American authors, Books & Boba is the podcast for you. It covers a range of genres, from historical fiction and graphic novels to science fiction and thrillers. As well as author interviews, the podcast picks a book for its book club each month, and has updates on recent news in the book world. 

The Puffin Podcast

We’re definitely biased when we say this is currently the best children’s podcast out there. But it really is the best children’s podcast out there! Hosted by comedian, actor, and Celebrity Gogglebox star Babatúndé Aléshé, every episode he and two Puffineers team up to take young listeners on an adventure to a magical world. They’re also joined each week by one of our awesome Puffin authors – guest appearances so far have included  Greg James , Jen Carney , and Humza Arshad . 

Listen on:  Apple Podcasts  |  Google Podcasts  |  Acast  |  Spotify

Sentimental Garbage

Journalist and author Caroline O’Donoghue talks to other female writers about that most unjustly maligned genre, chick-lit. Far from a guilty pleasure, chick-lit, she argues, should be celebrated as legit documentations of the female experience. It's not all serious feminism, though. It's fun, thoughtful and wildly entertaining as she and guests examine the books and culture that make chick-lit so special.

Listen on:  Apple Podcasts  | Acast  

This is a podcast dedicated entirely to audiobooks. Hosts Brad and Britney – best pals for more than a decade – review the hottest new releases, interview narrators and authors and discuss industry news with all the energy and enthusiasm of two kids in a sweetshop. Which isn't to say they can't do serious. They can. They're a joy to listen to.

Listen on:  Apple Podcasts  | Stitcher  | Google Podcasts

The Great Books Podcast

The thinking podcaster's podcast, this, from highbrow American magazine The National Review. Author, journalist and academic Pr. John J. Miller is joined by an array of esteemed literary experts to dive deep into literature's greatest classics, from the work of Evelyn Waugh , Herman Melville and James Joyce to Charles Dickens , Shakespeare and more.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts  | Stitcher

The History of Literature

Author and literature expert Jacke Wilson journeys through time to examine history's greatest literary moments and achievements, from dissecting the lives of our greatest authors to the writers who went to war to the Epic of Gilgamesh . The perfect audio companion for anyone who cares where literature is, and where it has come from.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Android | Google Podcasts

Read Learn Live

The mission of this highly-engaging and informative podcast is to help readers 'improve [themselves] through literature'. In each episode, host Jon Menaster conducts an in-depth interview with a well-known author to understand not only what makes them tick, but how, and why, they wrote their books.

Listen on:  Apple Podcasts  |  Android  | Spotify

Hurry Up and Read

Host Jason Balmet reads through classic Christian books as he delves into the minds of the most influential Christian writers throughout the course of history. With a new episode every day, five days a week, he breaks each reading session down to 20-minute chunks to keep listeners engaged and on track.

Listen on: Apple Podcast | Google Play

Selected Shorts

This is one of the best storytelling podcasts around. Produced by National Public Radio’s WNYC radio station in New York, Selected Shorts is a live event in which screen and stage actors read classic and new short fiction before a live audience. Over the years it has been hosted by a glittering line of well-known actors, authors, and entertainers such as David Sedaris, Stephen Colbert, Cynthia Nixon and Jane Kaczmarek.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Acast  | NPR  | Stitcher

Anything But Silent

Libraries don’t just keep our stories safe; they’re where new ones begin. That’s the premise of the ‘buzzing, creative and brave’ in-house podcast from the British Library. Cleo Laskarin, from the building’s exhibitions team, interviews all manner of guests, from famous writers to the people who make the British Library tick, on subjects ranging from how Minecraft is opening up literary worlds to library druids from the west of England.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts  | Spotify  | Google podcasts

VINTAGE Books

The VINTAGE Podcast releases weekly and covers author interviews, book news and discussions on bookish subjects ranging from literary fiction to graphic novels, cookery to crime fiction, history and travel to biography and poetry.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Acast

This Is Spoke

Hosted by director and journalist Fenn O'Meally and grime MC Big Zuu, This Is Spoke is an uncensored and unapologetic podcast that explores today's most important issues with some of the UK’s hottest writers, musicians and artists. Expect conversations about heritage, beauty standards, money, queer culture and everything in between!   

Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Acast  | Spotify

Backlisted, brought to you by Unbound, aims to give new life to old books. Regular presenters John Mitchinson and Andy Miller enter into a lively discussion with a guest to convince their listeners to read a book while arguing why it has stood the test of time. From Dickens and Jilly Cooper to the more obscure, in two years Backlisted has become one of the most popular book podcasts around. 

Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Soundcloud  | Overcast

‘The hosts are relatable and their enthusiasm and passion for books is contagious.’ ‘It feels like I’m hanging out with friends.’ The reviews say it all – Mostly Lit is a laid-back listen and millennial-focused experience that showcases the crossover in wellness, literature and pop-culture.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Acast 

The Guardian Books Podcast

The  Guardian Books podcast is a weekly delve into the world of writing. It features some of the world’s best authors through in-depth interviews while discussing wider trends, round-ups, prize winners and retrospectives on classic works. 

You’re Booked

Journalist Daisy Buchanan hosts this chatty podcast which allows listeners to snoop through guest’s bookshelves and discover the books that made an impact on them. Daisy’s dulcet tones are worth a listen alone, but tune in for fun conversations with recent guests including Dolly Alderton and Elizabeth Day.

The New Yorker: Fiction

The imitable New Yorker’s podcast on the biggest happenings in fiction runs monthly, with their fiction editor Deborah Treisman at the helm. Listen along for some of the biggest names in literature such as Dave Eggers, Roddy Doyle and Tess Hadley.

The Stories That Changed My Life

Regular guests share the stories that have made a mark on them. Priding itself on being a ‘books podcast for the non-bookish’, recent guests include journalists Lauren Bravo and Zing Tsjeng. Join them as they reminisce in a mash-up of good old fashioned storytelling and Desert Island Discs.

Listen on:  Apple Podcasts  |  Acast

London Review Bookshop Podcast

This is a great podcast if you want to hear authors talk and present. The London Review Bookshop hosts live events and thankfully records them for your listening pleasure. With over 200 episodes, there are plenty to choose from including readings, debates and discussions.

Books and Authors

BBC Radio 4’s resident books podcast, expect in-depth literary discussions on the latest tomes in true Radio 4 style. Recent guests include industry heavyweights such as Pulitzer-winning Jennifer Egan and Booker Prize nominee Richard Powers.

Freedom, Books, Flowers & the Moon

A weekly podcast focusing on culture and ideas by the Times Literary Supplement .  Inspired by Oscar Wilde’s question, ‘With freedom, books, flowers, and the moon, who could not be happy?’ expect interrogation on everything from Bronte to Reddit.

Literary Friction

Hosted by friends Carrie and Octavia, Literary Friction is a monthly conversational podcast. On each show, built around a theme, the hosts interview up-and-coming and more established authors. There are lively discussions, personal recommendations and more…

It’s been 30 years since Ayatollah Khomeini called on his fellow Muslims to murder Salman Rushdie for blasphemy following the publication of The Satanic Verses . There were book burnings, firebombings and the novel’s Japanese translator was stabbed to death. This 10-part series, from BBC Radio 4, tells the story of that story from both sides of the controversy in vivid and thrilling detail.

Banging Book Club

Banging Book Club is the the result of three friends who read a book about sex and gender together, covering topics such as intersectional feminism to Aristotle and Dante. This podcast has sadly now finished but there are still 47 episodes to wrap your ears around.

There’s a fresh stance in this weekly podcast about ‘books, writing, reading, and racoons’. The hosts dive into books they love, but most interestingly books they hate, too. Join them in an open and honest conversation where they digress and take tangents to discuss the latest happenings in lit.

Listen on:  Apple Podcasts  |  Acast 

Not Another Book Podcast

‘The podcast that says what you’re thinking but too afraid to say.’ This three-woman fronted show showcases the latest African writing in a chat format showcasing both popular and unpopular opinions. Packed with relatable insights, Not Another Book Podcast is for listeners that like to keep up with trends.

The Invisible College

Another of BBC Radio 4’s outputs, The Invisible College is for anyone with a love of creative writing. Featuring lessons from the greats in literature including Ted Hughes and Allen Ginsberg, listeners can learn everything from how to create characters to dealing with writers block.

Smart Podcast, Trashy Books

A weekly witty podcast that focuses on the romance genre. Host Sarah Wendell interviews everyone from bloggers to editors about swoon-worthy love stories. Expect a distinct lack of seriousness that includes reviews, author appearances and the latest romantic recommendations.

Black Chick Lit

Black Chick Lit is a bi-monthly podcast that discusses books written by, and created for, Black women. This conversational podcast run by hosts Dani and Molli involves wine - and a lot of laughing.

Listen on:  Apple Podcast s |  Google Play

Created by book website Book Riot, Hey YA focuses on the latest in the world of young adult novels. Hosts Eric and Kelly discuss everything from new releases to forgotten classics, on-screen adaptions and even current issues in the genre.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Stitcher 

Bad Book Reviews Podcast

A podcast that takes itself a little less seriously, The Bad Book Reviews Podcast offers authors the opportunity to joke about their terrible reviews and while also taking on board the critiques.

Listen on:  Stitcher

Metro Book Chat

Brought to you by the Metro Newspaper , Metro Book Chat sees their regular bookish print section brought to life in podcast form. Join them as they chat through book news with the latest authors and bloggers in the world of publishing.

Simon Mayo’s Books of the Year

Presenter Simo Mayo invites some of the world’s most exciting authors into the studio for a cheery conversation about their latest books. Described by a listener as ‘like meeting up with old friends’, watch out for our very own Lee Child and Kate Atkinson.

The Literary Salon

World-class writers join host Damian Barr where they read from their biggest and boldest works in front of a live audience in exciting locations. There are exclusives and world premieres, the past line up has included Bret Easton Ellis and Jojo Moyes.

Moms Don’t Have Time To Read Books

Zibby Owens has been described as ‘New York’s most powerful book-fluencer’. A writer and mother of four herself, she knows the struggle of being too busy to read books. MDHTTRB is her remedy. In each short episode, she interviews an author about their work, asking the questions readers have for their favourite books. Launched in 2018, this highly-entertaining, and blisteringly-popular, podcast (that, by the way, isn’t just for mums) gives busy book lovers a way to stay up to date with the world of books.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Podbean

So Many Damn Books

If you like drinking cocktails while listening to people chat about books, then this is the podcast for you. The effervescent duo Christopher Hermelin and Drew Broussard talk to well-known authors about reading, literature, publishing, and how to make it through your ever-growing stack of books you want to read, all while drinking a themed cocktail of their own design (usually linked to the author in question). It’s certainly one of the more fun literary podcasts on the circuit right now. 

Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Stitcher

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The Podcast

About The Podcast

Book Riot – The Podcast is a weekly news and talk show about what’s new, cool, and worth talking about in the world of books and reading, brought to you by the editors of Book Riot.

Dear Book Nerd

About Dear Book Nerd

Dear Book Nerd is a bi-weekly advice show about love, life, and literature.

Reading Lives

About Reading Lives

Reading Lives is an interview podcast with interesting people who love books.

All The Books

All the Books is a weekly show of recommendations and discussions about the most interesting and exciting new book releases.

About Get Booked

Get Booked is a bi-weekly show of custom book recommendations.

Science Fiction Book Review Podcast

Luke burrage reads a science fiction novel and reviews it when he's done. then he reads another., sfbrp #541 – adrian tchaikovsky – the expert system’s brother & champion – expert system #1 & 2.

Luke read three novellas by Adrian Tchaikovsky, catches up with Juliane and explains why they are all about 3.75 on the enjoyment scale. They are: Walking to Aldebaran, The Expert System’s Brother, and The Expert System’s Champion.

Luke on Mastodon: @[email protected]

Juliane on Mastodon: @[email protected]

Support Luke and Juliane financially via Patreon.com/lukeburrage

Discuss this book at Goodreads.com

Luke writes his own novels, like “Minding Tomorrow”, “Combat”, “Get that rat off my face!” and “The Monster Story Conference”, so download them for free at: https://www.lukeburrage.com/fiction.html

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SFBRP #540 – Karin Tidbeck – Amatka

Luke and Juliane review Amatka by Karin Tidbeck, then discuss the five star concepts and themes trapped within this two star novel.

SFBRP #539 – Jacqueline Harpman – I Who Have Never Known Men

I Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline Harpman (with The Child as the main character) is the post-apocalyptic-novel-featuring-a-protagonist-without-a-proper-name that Luke has been waiting for, following the double-disappointment of The Road (featuring The Man and The Boy) and The Bear (featuring The Man and The Girl).

SFBRP #538 – Herman Melville – Moby-Dick

Luke finally finished Moby-Dick by Herman Melville and wants to talk to Juliane about how it’s the best written worst novel.

SFBRP #537 – Andrew Krivak – The Bear

On the episode following The Road, Luke talks to Juliane about The Bear by Andrew Krivak, and how it’s playing off the themes and story of Cormac McCarthy’s novel.

SFBRP #536 – Cormac McCarthy – The Road

Luke was left bored and disappointed by The Road by Cormac McCarthy. He tells Juliane why he stopped reading half way through, and it wasn’t because he was depressed with the contents, but instead depressed by how bad it was written.

SFBRP #535 – Alexander C Kane – Scum of the Earth

Luke talks to Juliane about Scum of the Earth, the new Audible Original by Alexander C Kane about alien invasion collaborators.

SFBRP #534 – Alastair Reynolds – Machine Vendetta – Prefect Dreyfus Emergency #3

Luke and Juliane review Machine Vendetta by Alastair Reynolds, a book they mostly enjoyed, but spend the whole podcast trying to work out why there weren’t fully satisfied.

SFBRP #533 – Virtual Voice Narration in 2024

Luke reviews Artifact by Joshua James, but actually he wants to have an in-depth discussion with Juliane about Audible’s new Virtual Voice Narration technology, what it sounds like now, and what it means for the future of audiobook production and listening.

SFBRP #532 – Ursula K LeGuin – Rocannon’s World – Hainish Cycle #1

Luke tells Juliane about Rocannon’s World, which was Ursula K LeGuin’s first novel, and the first book in the Hainish Cycle.

Finding the books that get people talking

HYPER-X THEME

Your new favourite books podcast

Welcome to The Book Club Review , the independent podcast about the books that get people talking, hosted by Kate and Laura. From literary prize shortlists to book club favourites we’re always on the hunt for those books that provoke conversations, the ones we can’t wait to share.  With our cast of regular and special guests, we promise you honest opinions and lively debate. Listen via your favourite podcast player  or browse our archive for over 150 episodes and many hundreds of book recommendations. Wondering if we’ve covered one of your favourites? Type the title into the search tab to find out.

The best books podcast you’ve never heard of

Try one of our recent episodes or head to the archive for over 150 more..

Exploring literary worlds beyond fiction: a dive into non-fiction recommendations with Tom Rowley of indie bookshop Backstory. Listen via the media player or head to the episode page for full-shownotes.

So Many Damn Books podcast creator and host Christopher Hermelin joins Kate to swap book recommendations and discuss the magic of book club, recent book discoveries, bookish pet peeves and more… Listen via the media player or head to the episode page for full-shownotes.

Two marriages, two forbidden love affairs, and the passionate search for social and sexual freedom in late 19th-century London, but what did our book club think? Kate and Phil report back.

From the literary London of Charles Dickens to 21st century Romantasy feat. dragons and then some, listen in to our recent reads. Listen via your favourite podcast app using this podfollow link , or go to the episode page for full show notes and transcript.

The books to look out for in 2024, with Bookbar’s Chrissy Ryan, plus some tips for avoiding feeling overwhelmed by your TBR. Listen via your favourite podcast app using this podfollow link , or go to the episode page for full show notes and transcript.

What were the best books of 2023? Listen in to our review of the year to find out our absolute favourites. Join Kate, Laura and Phil for a look back over a year of reading – over 300 books between us, from new releases to backlist gems, and over 50 recommendations. Listen via your favourite podcast app using this podfollow link , or go to the episode page for full show notes and transcript.

The Booker Prize 2023: What did we think of all six shortlisted books. Join us as we evaluate them and try to second-guess the Booker judges, before finding out the winner. Listen via your favourite podcast app using this podfollow link , or go to the episode page for full show notes and transcript.

With prose as ‘as smooth as worn saddle-leather’, USA today writes ‘If you read only one Western novel in your life, read this one . . . no other has ever approached the accomplishment of Lonesome Dove ‘. What did Laura’s book club make of it? Listen in for the discussion and our other book recommendations. Listen via your favourite podcast app using this podfollow link , or go to the episode page for full show notes and transcript.

What did our podcast book club think of So Late in the Day , the short story from Booker shortlisted author (and Irish national treasure) Claire Keegan? We also catch up on our recent reading, listen in to find out our hits and misses. Listen via your favourite podcast app using this podfollow link , or go to the episode page for full show notes and transcript.

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Discussion, debate, even a little dispute

Every month we bring you a new episode. That could be Book Club where we chat about the book read most recently by one of our book clubs.   An interview with a book club, bookshop or book lover.  Or Bookshelf, an episode dedicated to the books we’re reading outside of book club – the ones we get to pick and choose.

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Kate from the Book Club Review pod • From frontlist to backlist, over 150 episodes of reviews, recommendations and debates at the link in the bio 🎧📚

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Books We Love

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Here are the Books We Love: 380+ great 2023 reads recommended by NPR

November 20, 2023 • Books We Love returns with 380+ new titles handpicked by NPR staff and trusted critics. Find 11 years of recommendations all in one place – that's more than 3,600 great reads.

20 new books hitting shelves this summer that our critics can't wait to read

May 21, 2024 • We asked our book critics what titles they are most looking forward to this summer. Their picks range from memoirs to sci-fi and fantasy to translations, love stories and everything in between.

The trees in this photo are amazing (and not just because they happen to be growing in a very Instagrammable heart shape around Baker Lake in Quebec, Canada.) Read on for a tree appreciation reading list for Arbor Day. Sebastien St-Jean/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Happy Arbor Day! These 20 books will change the way you think about trees

April 26, 2024 • Trees communicate. They migrate. They protect. They heal. We climbed into the NPR archives to find some of our favorite arboreal fiction, nonfiction, and kids' lit — get ready to branch out.

Pregame the Super Bowl with our favorite football fiction

February 8, 2024 • Of course, leave it to the gigantic nerds at NPR to throw a literary tailgate ... but to thine own self be true, even if it means getting stuffed into your locker later this afternoon.

Here are 10 kids' books we loved this year

December 20, 2023 • If you've found yourself reading the same picture book over and over (and over and over) to a small but determined audience we see you and salute you! Is it time to add a few new titles to the mix?

A buffet of 2023 cookbooks for the food lovers on your list

December 16, 2023 • There are a lot of cooks at NPR. Every time we ask our staff for recommendations for our annual, year-end books guide, we get back a veritable smorgasbord of cookbook offerings.

12 books that NPR critics and staff were excited to share with you in 2023

December 5, 2023 • Every year we ask NPR staff and book critics to share their favorite titles in our annual Books We Love guide. Behind the scenes, it's fun to spot trends and see what gets nominated again and again.

At UIF, we understand the importance of fostering a community that engages in meaningful discussions about topics that matter. That’s why we are thrilled to bring you this insightful podcast that delves into various finance topics, economic outlook, best business book reviews, expert interviews, and all things that matter to our community. Meet Your Hosts: - Aijaz Hussain - Executive VP Sales & Director - Omer Subhani - Regional Manager - Farah Zeaitir - Relationship Manager At UIF Corporation, we are dedicated to providing you with a comprehensive range of faith-based financing solutions tailored to your unique needs. With a solid commitment to exceptional customer service, we take pride in the fact that 97% of our valued customers trust us and enthusiastically refer their family and friends to UIF Corp. Products include: Home Financing, Construction Financing, Commercial Real Estate Financing, Vehicle Financing, & Halal Savings Accounts*! For more information, please visit: https://www.myuif.com/ ---- The views and opinions expressed during the podcast are the opinions and views of the individual presenters and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of UIF Corporation or its affiliates. *UIF Corporation is not a bank but a faith-based subsidiary of University Bank, Member FDIC. Banking services are provided through University Bank, and are subject to approval. Equal Housing Opportunity.

UIF Community Podcast UIF Corporation

• 5.0 • 7 Ratings
• MAY 24, 2024

The Psychology of Money

In this insightful episode of the UIF Community Podcast, we dive into Morgan Housel's acclaimed book, The Psychology of Money. Join us as we unravel the nuances of financial success, exploring the critical differences between the skillset required to make money versus the discipline needed to keep it. Discover the power of compounding profits and why staying in the market for the long haul can amplify your wealth. We'll also discuss the delicate balance between luck and risk, and how understanding both can profoundly impact your financial decisions. Tune in for a deep dive into the psychology behind financial well-being and practical tips to enhance your economic outlook.

• MAY 13, 2024

Why The Need For Another Podcast?

We are excited to share with you the launch of our new podcast that we believe will benefit you greatly! We are calling it the UIF Community Podcast. Our goal is to educate you on topics related to Islamic finance, Economic conditions, Real Estate markets, self-development, and beyond.   Meet Your Hosts: Aijaz Hussain - Executive VP Sales & Director  Omer Subhani - Regional Manager Farah Zeaitir - Relationship Manager    What to Expect in Future Episodes: 1. In-Depth Conversations 2. Current Market Trends 3. Community Spotlight 4. Book Reviews 

• © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.

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