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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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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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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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33 of the Best Book Podcasts for All Genres

Julia Rittenberg

Julia is a professional nerd who can be spotted in the wild lounging with books in the park in Brooklyn, NY. She has a BA in International Studies from the University of Chicago and an MA in Media Studies from Pratt Institute. She loves fandom, theater, cheese, and Edith Piaf. Find her at juliarittenberg.com .

View All posts by Julia Rittenberg

Podcasts have had a drawn out explosion of sorts, a consistent revitalization every time someone theorizes the bubble will burst. There are so many topics to explore in-depth over a series of conversations with friends. The best book podcasts to me sound like lively book club conversations, the kinds you’ve had with friends in your own book club.

The book podcast world is great to explore for book lovers because there are so many different kinds of experts reading and talking about their reading and writing processes. This list is a very small slice of the book podcasting world out there, so hopefully this helps your exploration process as well!

The Best Book Podcasts To Listen To

Deadline city.

Writers Zoraida Córdova and Dhonielle Clayton share an office and an ever-mounting series of deadlines in this chatty, wonderful podcast. They have a great knack for breaking down the big, scary parts of writing and creating a book, and making it seem manageable after all. An ideal listen for anyone who’s interested in learning more about what it’s like to be a working writer, making your own schedule and time.

Kidlit These Days

Nicole and Matthew don’t only go over the latest releases in children’s literature, but talk through the gaps and problems that have yet to be resolved. Their recent episode on the need for diverse bodies in children’s books was an extremely salient point. Finally, they have great author interviews.

My Imaginary Friends with L. Penelope

For more tips on writing and working through the gargantuan process of book creation, turn to award-winning fantasy and romance author L. Penelope. Her personable podcast gives and insider’s look into her writing process, and she talks about the best things of the week and gives great advice.

Books and Boba

This podcast is the essential rundown of Asian American literature. In addition to regular book news, they do reviews and fascinating author interviews. This is what we love about book podcasts—a lively book club in portable audio form.

Black Chick Lit

This podcast sticks exactly to the stated mission of the title, and the hosts are a joy to listen to. Danielle and Mollie also go deep on each book and treat them all as worthy of intense analysis, but they’re also having a good time. The perfect fun and informative book podcast.

Novel Gazing

For those of us (me) just getting into literary fiction, this podcast can help point you in the right direction. Hosts Mary Kay and Louise cover a variety of topics in the first few episodes, including translation, how to read a difficult book, and the new adaptation of Emma .

Everything is Trying to Kill You

Book Riot editor Mary Kay McBrayer and co-hosts Rachel and Mary go over the funniest and weirdest in horror. Although not strictly a books podcast, many of the horror movies they discuss are based on books. Join them for this hilarious journey through the many weird roads of horror.

The Unfriendly Black Hotties

This is not strictly a book podcast, but they often discuss books in the “Pop Culture for You to Get Involved With” section. Christina and Kamille are personable, hilarious hosts and have great things to say about the book industry and who’s getting published and why.

When in Romance

I always need a guide through a big, diverse genre, and Jess and Trisha are particularly fantastic ambassadors. In addition to giving great recommendations, they talk through the advice we can get from reading romance.

Comic Book Couples Counseling Podcast

Dive into the biggest relationships of comics with hosts Brad and Lisa. They talk through all the big relationships that span decades, series, and universes. It’s the perfect discussion about how relationships function in completely extraordinary circumstances.

Selected Shorts

This podcast is a little treat for midday or the weekend—amazingly talented actors reading great short stories. With a rotating series of hosts and guests, this podcast will have something for ever story lover.

Vintage Books

Hosted by Leena Norms, this book news podcast covers every kind of book discussion and topic you can think of. It’s released by the publisher Vintage Books, so there’s a slightly business-y perspective to the podcast that’s pretty interesting.

This is one of the best book podcasts for longtime fans of science fiction and fantasy books, and also people who are just getting into that particular genre fiction. Sharifah and Jenn discuss the latest in science fiction/fantasy, as well as diving into the huge backlist for this genre.

You’re Booked

Daisy Buchanan brings her delightful interviewing skills to the podcasting world. She asks authors how they became book lovers, what books they just couldn’t get through, and what’s on their shelves. It’s a great way to find out more about your favorite authors without having to find a way to peek at their bookshelves yourself.

Although this a short-form podcast from last year, I still wanted to suggest it because it tells a completely stranger-than-fiction story about Salman Rushdie. I hadn’t known that much about him besides the books I read in middle and high school, so it was a major shock to listen to this podcast about the 1989 fatwa issued against Rushdie. It is a reminder of the importance of reading widely and diving into histories outside of my immediate community.

So Many Damn Books

This podcast speaks to me because I, too, have a giant pile of books on my night table that I’m trying to make my way through without adding a new one to it every day. Christopher and Drew are publishing professionals, and bring you books, interviews, and more with a themed drink for each episode.

Read or Dead

If you need a place to indulge your love of mystery and thrillers without people thinking you’re planning their murder, this is one of the best book podcasts for you. Katie and Rincey have all the news, and dive into underappreciated sections of the mystery/thriller book world.

Jay & Miles X-Plain the X-Men

Jay and Miles have decided to do the great public service of explaining every aspect of the intense, ever-rebooting and retconning world of the X-Men. This podcast is such a fun listen, with a lot of deep discussion of how the X-Men used metaphor to gesture to found family and queer identity.

Eric and Kelly have a super difficult task with this podcast because YA isn’t actually a singular genre, but an ever-evolving age category that encompasses many different kinds of storytelling approaches. They take us through the news of the YA world and the best themes across YA books in a fun, compelling way. A great listen for anyone who wants to learn more about YA.

LeVar Burton Reads

This is one of the best book podcasts and it contains so much unparalleled joy—if you haven’t listened to it yet, you’re only failing yourself. A weekly story read by one of the most beautiful voices in the world, which also reminds us of our other favorite media…It’s a true delight and I hope it continues forever.

Although not strictly a books podcast, the Nerdette book club remains one of my favorite episode series on this feed. Recently, they’re doing their “book club for introverts,” so you can follow along with them and join in on the fun in an easy, relaxing way.

Reading Women

In addition to only reading books by female authors, the hosts of this podcast choose a monthly theme. February was Afrofuturism, and March is going to be Women in History. Reading challenges like the ones assigned by Kendra and Autumn are extremely helpful for learning more about a particular genre or field of history that feels unexamined in your reading life.

Big Gay Fiction Podcast

Jeff and Will have just announced a new book club in addition to their podcast, so it’s a great time to get on board. Both of the hosts are authors and gay romance novel enthusiasts, and they bring you the latest published books in that genre, author interviews, and great pop culture discussions.

Hosts Amanda and Jenn bring their expertise to the vast world of bookselling and genre discussions. The series The Handsell to discuss specific books they want you to read. If you’re lost on what to read right now, Get Booked is the perfect place to start.

Vanessa Richardson hosts this weekly exploration of the dark and dangerous parts of fairy tales. She takes you through all of the hard edges of the tales we hear as children and their origins in folklore.

Book Club for Masochists

This podcast hosted by librarians who have to read a genre they despise in order to understand it better. It’s a great way to learn about how to recommend in genres that aren’t your favorite.

The Worst Bestsellers

The How Did This Get Made of the best book podcasts, this show features the weirdest popular novels that gained popular attention. Of course there are episodes about the usual suspects (E L James), but they dive into many others. Hosts Katie, Renata, and a rotating guest also read books they actually like once in a while, as a treat.

All the Books!

If you need to keep up with the latest releases, this podcast is a great resource. Hosts and guests talk about the new releases every week, and then also go through backlist favorites to dive into.

A Story of Sorts

If you want a consistent stream of book recommendations from a seasoned bookseller, this is one of the best book podcasts for you. It’s hosted by Book Riot contributor Carina Pereira , so you know you’re in good hands.

Brit Lit Podcast

Hosted by Book Riot contributor Claire Handscombe , this podcast brings you all the news on recent British literature and discussions with authors about British literature as well. Since it can feel like British lit is stuck in the past, this podcast is a fantastic resource for people who want to learn more about the current state of British publishing.

Black Books Live!

This podcast exists to address the lack of audio recordings available for classic black literature. Hosts Jason Harris, Cher Jey, and guests are doing the work of creating an auditory history.

Book Squad Goals

The joy of a book club in a podcast for portable pleasure! The four hosts have been in a book club for a long time, and they bring that easy energy to their chats. They talk about old and new books, as well as adaptations.

This is the kind of podcast I love because it focuses on very specific markets in the Arab region (specifically the Middle East and North Africa) and relates the books to the larger political and cultural concerns. It’s a great primer on the publishing industry in a part of the world I haven’t been able to go to before. Reading the local literature is the best way to get a big picture of the area.

There it is—listening material for days! If you make your way through this podcast list of the best book podcasts and you’re hungry for more, you can always dive into audiobooks as well. Book Riot recommends as many genres as possible: queer YA , books narrated by black women , and contemporary romance .

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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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NPR's Book of the Day

In need of a good read? Or just want to keep up with the books everyone's talking about? NPR's Book of the Day gives you today's very best writing in a snackable, skimmable, pocket-sized podcast. 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. Catch today's great books in 15 minutes or less.

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Most Recent Episodes

June 3, 2024

Illia ponomarenko's memoir opens up about covering the russian invasion of ukraine.

June 3, 2024 • There's a lot of tragedy that goes into watching your home erupt into a battlefield. But journalist Illia Ponomarenko says as the Russian military seized city after city in their latest invasion of Ukraine, people also came together in beautiful ways. His new memoir, I Will Show You How It Was , recounts what living – and covering – the war has been like so far. In today's episode, The Kyiv Independent co-founder speaks with NPR's Scott Simon about Ukrainians' willingness to fight for their country, what life is like in Bucha today and the unexpected way he met his girlfriend's parents.

May 31, 2024

Two books trace the social and historical impacts of food.

May 31, 2024 • Today's episode is all about food – but not in the form of recipes. First, Pulitzer Prize-winning author Victor M. Valle speaks to Here & Now's Deepa Fernandes about The Poetics of Fire , his new book analyzing the history of chiles in Mesoamerican and Indigenous cuisine as a lens to understand Mexican-American and Chicano culture. Then, NPR's Scott Simon asks Michelle T. King about Chop Fry Watch Learn , a part-memoir, part-reported analysis of Taiwanese chef Fu Pei-mei's life and impact on Chinese food around the world.

May 30, 2024

Claire messud's new novel is a sweeping tale of history, family and social change.

May 30, 2024 • Across seven decades, Claire Messud's novel This Strange Eventful History follows generations of a family from a colonized Algeria to far stretches of the world after the country's independence, always grappling with the idea of identity and belonging and political upheaval. In today's episode, Messud speaks with NPR's Ari Shapiro about how she took inspiration from her own grandparents' story, and how looking back at their past sparked a desire in her to chronicle the world she grew up in for her own kids.

May 29, 2024

Author kazuo ishiguro and singer stacey kent collaborate on new songbook.

May 29, 2024 • When Nobel Prize-winning author Kazuo Ishiguro went on the BBC program Desert Island Discs , he spoke about how much he loves the music of jazz singer Stacey Kent. In today's episode, Ishiguro and Kent tell NPR's Juana Summers how that mention led them to meet and embark on an artistic endeavor together – a new songbook called The Summer We Crossed Europe in the Rain , featuring lyrics by Ishiguro set to music composed by Kent's partner, Jim Tomlinson.

May 28, 2024

In 'all fours,' miranda july tackles love, sex and reinvention in middle age.

May 28, 2024 • Writer and filmmaker Miranda July says the popular imagination sort of drops off once a woman gets married and has kids. Her new novel All Fours turns that on its head – it's a story about an artist in her 40s who departs from her husband and child on a road trip that takes her to some very unexpected places. In today's episode, July speaks to NPR's Brittany Luse about the interviews she conducted with women going through perimenopause and menopause for this book, and the whisper network with her friends that fueled her protagonist's deep desire for something new.

May 27, 2024

Doris kearns goodwin's new book is part memoir, part history of the 1960s.

May 27, 2024 • When Dick Goodwin reached his 80s, he asked his wife – historian Doris Kearns Goodwin – to finally open and sift through the hundreds of boxes he'd kept from his time as a presidential aide and speechwriter to John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson and as advisor to Robert Kennedy. What resulted is An Unfinished Love Story , a new book by Kearns Goodwin with a personal lens to the history of the 1960s. In today's episode, she speaks to NPR's Steve Inskeep about what she found in her husband's archives and what she learned revisiting that time period.

May 24, 2024

Whoopi goldberg and tom selleck memoirs look back at their beginnings.

May 24, 2024 • Today's episode is about two massive stars: Whoopi Goldberg and Tom Selleck. First, Goldberg speaks with NPR's Ayesha Rascoe about her new memoir, Bits and Pieces , which touches on her relationship with her mother, the way she navigated beauty standards growing up, and what it means to grapple with grief over time. Then, Selleck joins NPR's Scott Simon to discuss You Never Know , his initial reluctance to take on his role in Magnum P.I . and his thoughts on being labeled a "mustachioed hunk."

May 23, 2024

'the salvisoul cookbook' celebrates salvadoran food and the matriarchs who cook it.

May 23, 2024 • Years ago, Karla Tatiana Vasquez tried to search up a recipe for one of her favorite Salvadoran dishes, Salpicón Salvadoreño. The scarce results not only disappointed Vasquez, but created a new mission: to collect and preserve the recipes of the Salvadoran diaspora along with the stories of the women who've been passing them down for generations. In today's episode, NPR's A Martinez visits Vasquez's kitchen to discuss The SalviSoul Cookbook and the relationship between food, migration and trauma.

May 22, 2024

'the paris novel' revels in a good meal, a beautiful dress and a romantic city.

May 22, 2024 • A plane ticket to Paris, a vintage Dior dress and a spectacular first-ever oyster — these three things upend the life of Stella, the sheltered, cautious protagonist at the heart of The Paris Nove l, a coming-of-age story about losing all inhibitions in one of the world's most romantic cities. In today's episode, author Ruth Reichl speaks with NPR's Scott Simon about indulging in life's simple pleasures, writing in honor of her late editor and choosing to set her story in the Paris of the 1980s.

May 21, 2024

In 'the white bonus,' tracie mcmillan analyzes the monetary cost of racism.

May 21, 2024 • Racism is a major contributor to economic disparities in the U.S. – but in her new book, The White Bonus , writer Tracie McMillan crunches the numbers to understand just how much money white privilege can mean. In today's episode, she speaks with NPR's Michel Martin about the different families she profiled, the generations of economic policy she analyzed, and the rift created within her own family during the process of reporting this book .

How to Write a Book Review Podcast

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When writing a book review, it is important to know the difference between a review and a report or summary—reviewing means discussing the strengths and weaknesses of a book. This podcast details ways to keep your review critical and how to support your argument.

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

Everett’s latest novel revisits “the adventures of huckleberry finn” from the perspective of huck’s fellow runaway..

Hosted by Gilbert Cruz

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The broad outlines of Percival Everett’s new novel, “James,” will be immediately familiar to anyone with even a basic knowledge of American literature: A boy named Huckleberry Finn and an enslaved man named Jim are fleeing down the Mississippi River together, each in search of his own kind of freedom.

But where Mark Twain’s “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” treated Jim as a secondary character, a figure of pity and a target of fun, Everett’s novel makes him the star of the show: a dignified, complicated, fully formed man capable of love and wit and rage in equal measure.

In this week’s episode, the Book Review’s MJ Franklin discusses the book with his colleagues Joumana Khatib and Gregory Cowles. Caution: Spoilers abound.

They also discuss comments and questions that readers submitted. If you’ve read “James” and want to join the conversation, we’d love to hear your reactions in the comments. We’ll get you started:

MJ Franklin: “Everett’s version of ‘Huck Finn’ veers into different territory pretty immediately. From the first page, you learn that there is more to James than meets the eye.” …

Joumana Khatib: “This book is certainly subversive. I have no problem considering it an act of subversion. In fact, one of the major themes in this book is just how dangerous and risky language is, and claiming it for yourself, wielding it for yourself.” …

Gregory Cowles: “One thing that happens throughout this book, James, as a runaway slave, is always kind of trying to suss out when he encounters a white person, Is he a safe white person? And really there are no safe white people in this book. … ‘Adventures of Huckleberry Finn’ is maybe the original avatar of the white savior narrative. Who is Huck except the white savior for Jim? And ‘James,’ by Percival Everett, is a book that refuses the white savior narrative.”

We would love to hear your thoughts about this episode, and about the Book Review’s podcast in general. You can send them to [email protected] .

Explore More in Books

Want to know about the best books to read and the latest news start here..

John S. Jacobs was a fugitive, an abolitionist — and the brother of the canonical author Harriet Jacobs. Now, his own fierce autobiography has re-emerged .

Don DeLillo’s fascination with terrorism, cults and mass culture’s weirder turns has given his work a prophetic air. Here are his essential books .

Jenny Erpenbeck’s “ Kairos ,” a novel about a torrid love affair in the final years of East Germany, won the International Booker Prize , the renowned award for fiction translated into English.

Kevin Kwan, the author of “Crazy Rich Asians,” left Singapore’s opulent, status-obsessed, upper crust when he was 11. He’s still writing about it .

Each week, top authors and critics join the Book Review’s podcast to talk about the latest news in the literary world. Listen here .

How To Start A Book Review Podcast (2024)

Are you an avid reader who loves to discuss books with others? Have you ever thought about starting your own book review podcast? With the growing popularity of podcasts, it’s never been a better time to start. In this blog, we’ll provide you with tips on how to start a book review podcast that will keep your listeners coming back for more. Whether you’re a seasoned podcaster or just starting out, our simple and straightforward formula will help you create a successful book review podcast that will have your audience begging for more.

If you want us to help you start a book review podcast , get in touch ! Level up your podcast with our podcast editing services or podcast management services today!

1. Define Your Book Review  Podcast Goal

Before you start creating your book review podcast, you need to define your goal. What is the main goal or purpose of your podcast? Do you want to provide honest and detailed reviews of books, offer recommendations and ratings, or interview authors and literary experts?

Knowing your goal will help you to focus on creating relevant and engaging content for your target audience. It will also help you to differentiate your podcast from others in the crowded and competitive podcast space.

2. Plan and Prepare Your Book Review Podcast

A. know your audience.

Identifying your target audience is crucial for the success of your podcast. Who are you creating this podcast for? Is it for book reviewers, literature critics, or individuals interested in hearing reviews of various books?

Knowing your audience will help you to create content that resonates with them and keeps them coming back for more.

b. Choose a topic

Choosing the right topic is critical for your podcast. It should align with your goal and target audience. You can focus on specific topics such as reviewing books from different genres, analyzing themes and characters, or discussing new releases. You can also explore niche topics like hosting author interviews and exploring different book genres.

c. Choose a name

Your podcast name should be simple, memorable, and relevant to your topic. It should also be easy to pronounce and spell. To improve discoverability, add 1-2 relevant keywords, but don’t keyword stuff them. Make sure that the name is not already taken by another podcast to avoid confusion and copyright issues. Looking for name ideas? Check out this podcast name ideas list to find the perfect name for your book review podcast.

d. Decide cadence & format

Your podcast cadence and format will depend on your goal and topic. You can choose to release weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly episodes. You can also choose between solo episodes, multiple hosts, or remote interviews. Whatever format you choose, make sure that it aligns with your goal and resonates with your target audience.

3. Get Equipment for Your Book Review  Podcast

A. quality microphone.

A quality microphone is a must-have for your podcast. It will ensure that your audio is clear and professional. You can choose from USB or XLR microphones, depending on your budget and preference. Some popular microphones for podcasting are the Samson Q2U, Audio-Technica ATR2100x, and Shure SM7B.

b. Headphones/Earphones

Headphones or earphones are essential for monitoring your audio while recording and editing . It will help you to detect any background noise, distortion, or echo in your audio. You can choose from wired or wireless headphones/earphones, depending on your preference.

c. Interface or Mixer for in-person (optional)

An interface or mixer is necessary if you’re recording in-person with multiple microphones. It will allow you to control the levels and mix your audio before recording. Some popular interfaces and mixers for podcasting are the Focusrite Scarlett, Behringer Xenyx, and Zoom H6.

d. Pop Filter (optional)

A pop filter is an optional accessory that can reduce plosives or popping sounds in your audio. It’s especially useful if you’re recording close to your microphone. You can choose from foam or metal pop filters, depending on your preference.

e. Mic Stand (optional)

A mic stand is an optional accessory that can be used to hold your microphone in place during recording. This can help to prevent unwanted noise caused by holding the microphone in your hand or placing it on a table or desk.

• Consider investing in a shock mount for your microphone to further reduce unwanted noise.
• Test your equipment before recording to ensure everything is set up properly and working as expected.

4. Produce Creatives for Your Book Review Podcast

Now that you have your equipment ready, it’s time to start producing creatives for your podcast. This includes writing a podcast description, trailer script, intro and outro script, common questions, and designing artwork.

a. Write a Podcast Description

Your podcast description is a short summary of what your show is all about. It should be engaging and informative, and it should give potential listeners a good idea of what they can expect from your show. Keep in mind that this description will be the first thing that people see when they come across your podcast on various podcast platforms, so make it count.

b. Write Trailer Script

A trailer is a short audio clip that gives listeners a sneak peek of what your podcast is all about. It’s usually around 1-2 minutes long and should be captivating enough to convince people to follow/subscribe to your show.

c. Write Intro and Outro Script

The intro and outro of your podcast are important elements that can help to establish your brand and create a memorable listening experience. Your intro should introduce your show, set the tone for the episode, and introduce you and any co-hosts or guests. Your outro should wrap up the episode, thank your listeners for tuning in, and encourage them to subscribe to your show.

d. Write Podcast Questions

If you plan on conducting interviews or having guests on your show, it’s a good idea to come up with a list of common questions that you can ask them. This will help to ensure that you get the information you need and that your episodes stay on track. Find a list of podcast questions here.

e. Design Artwork

Design an eye-catching artwork that represents your show. This is a critical step in gaining new listeners. Artwork that stands out and grabs the listener’s attention will give you the best chance of gaining new listeners, especially when starting a new show. People do evaluate a podcast by its cover, so use a platform like Canva to design a memorable artwork.

f. Create Templates for Branding and Promo Content

Creating templates for branding and promo content can help to save you time and ensure consistency across all of your marketing materials. This can include things like quote cards, social media graphics, episode artwork, audiograms and promo images. Select brand colors and font before launch to maintain consistent branding across the web. Canva and Headliner are useful for creating quote cards and audiograms, while ChatGPT is useful for writing show notes. Establishing templates from the beginning will save time in the long run.

g. Buy Music

Music can help to set the tone for your podcast and engage listeners, so make sure to select a song related to your topic. You can buy great quality songs from PremiumBeat , the best part it’s a one-time purchase and offers a wide variety of songs. Just pick a song you like, grab the standard license, and take advantage of any discounts available. Use it for your trailer, intro, and outro of your podcast.

Get 25% off your first purchase with code “ GNINBUHA “

h. Produce Trailer and the Intro & Outro

Once you have all of your creatives ready, it’s time to start producing your trailer and intro and outro segments. You can use software like GarageBand or Audacity to record and edit these segments. Apply audio enhancements like EQ, compression, leveling, audio repair, LUFS for standard loudness, and mixing & mastering to enhance the quality of your audio.

5. Setup Host & Socials for Your Book Review  Podcast

Now that you have all of your creatives and equipment ready, it’s time to choose a podcast host and set up your social media accounts.

a. Choose a Podcast Host

There are many podcast hosting platforms to choose from, including Anchor , and Buzzsprout . If budget is a concern, Anchor is a cost-free option. For additional features, opt for a paid platform like Buzzsprout or Captivate . Choose a platform that suits your budget and offers the features you need.

b. Upload Trailer to Setup Host

Once you have produced your podcast episode, publish it on your hosting platform. It’s easy to upload your audio files and add all the necessary metadata, such as the episode title, description, and cover art. Once you have submitted your episode, it will typically take a few hours to a day for it to be approved and listed on major podcast directories like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and others.

c. Submit Manually to Speed Up

To get your show listed on leading platforms quickly, manually submit your trailer to Apple Podcasts , Spotify and others. Note that it can take up to 2 weeks for some platforms to list your show, so submit at least 3-4 weeks before launch.

d. Create Social Media Accounts

Create social media accounts on the platforms your target audience uses. Especially Instagram Reels, Tiktok , and YouTube Shorts, as they give the greatest exposure without additional cost. Well-crafted Twitter threads and LinkedIn posts also perform really. Facebook groups or Reddit can also be great places to share your show and build a community.

e. Create a Website (optional)

Selling a product/service? A website can help you guide listeners to your offer. Additionally, publishing show notes, and transcripts, and repurposing episodes into search-friendly blog posts, can help get organic traffic from search engines like Google. Platforms like Podpage , WordPress , or Squarespace can help you create your website (though this may be time-consuming). Outsource the task to a freelancer or agency like ours to maximize your podcast efforts.

• Submit your podcast to all directories

6. Record and Edit Your Book Review Podcast

Once you have everything ready, it’s time to record and edit the episodes. Here are the steps:

a. Record your episode

Before recording, assemble the necessary equipment, test it, and follow the scripts/questions you created. Record your episode in a quiet, low-noise room. If remote, use Riverside or Squadcast , and if in-person use Audacity or Garage Band . Zoom is an option but can reduce quality and lead to lags. For both in-person and remote, record separate tracks for each person. If there are drift issues in remote recording, these can usually be fixed during editing and post-production .

b. Edit your episode

Edit your podcast episode with Audacity or Garage Band . Both are free and can be used to reduce noise, add intros/outros, music, and adjust volume levels. Paid options like Alitu and Descript are available, but sometimes their AI editing can be unreliable. If you’re looking for a smoother editing experience, outsource the task to a freelancer or agency like ours .

• Record in a quiet environment
• Use headphones during recording
• Bend the mic slightly to avoid plosives
• Hook listeners at the beginning

7. Post and Promote Your Book Review  Podcast

Now that your podcast episode is edited, it’s time to upload and promote it and get the word out to your potential listeners. Here are some ways to promote your book review podcast:

a. Upload your episode

After editing, upload your episode to your podcast host. The host will distribute on major platforms like Apple Podcast, Spotify, and others. You can also schedule episodes and track download numbers from your host.

b. Promote your episode

Marketing is as important as making the show. I’ve listed some of the most effective ways to promote a podcast with free and paid options:

Share on social media (free): Promote your new episode on your social media channels, including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. You can create graphics, videos, or audiograms to grab people’s attention and direct them to your podcast episode.

Create short-form videos (free): Create multiple short-form clips for Reels, Tiktok, and YouTube Shorts. Ensure to add a call to action at the end of the video such as “Listen to Full Episode – Link in bio” and use Linktree to list your show links.

Consider Podcast SEO (free): Optimize your podcast titles, descriptions, and transcripts for podcast apps and search engines to increase your podcast’s visibility in search results. Use Voxalyze to optimize for podcast SEO.

Guest appearances(free/paid): Reach out to other podcasters or book review  bloggers in your niche and ask if you can come on their show as a guest. This is a great way to reach a new audience and earn backlinks to your podcast website.

Leverage your network (free): Let your friends, family, and colleagues know about your podcast and ask them to share it with their network. Even though they may not be your target audience, but it’s worth sharing the word.

Repurpose (free): Turn your podcast episode into a search-friendly blog post, show notes, and transcript for each episode. Post them on your website to attract visitors from Google.

Collaborations/Podswap (free): Reach out to other podcasters in your niche and collaborate on a cross-promotion strategy. Use Rephonic to find shows to partner with.:** Work with other influencers, athletes, or coaches in your niche to promote each other’s content. This can be a great way to cross-promote and reach a new audience.

Do a giveaway (paid): To get listed in Apple Podcasts’ New and Noteworthy section, create a contest with a call to action to subscribe and leave a review, then apply through Apple’s placement form once you see a spike in reviews. This method has been successful for indie and larger podcasts. Retaining listeners depends on the quality of the content and production.

Newsletter/Email marketing (free/paid): Promote your show via large newsletters related to your show and/or create a newsletter of your own. Collect email addresses from your audience and send frequent helpful updates and your latest episodes. If you already have an email list, send an email to your subscribers announcing your new episode and encouraging them to tune in.

Podcast app advertising (paid): If you have a budget for marketing, you can run paid ads on platforms like Castbox , Overcast , Podcast Addict , and Spotify ads . They are very effective as per a study. This can help you reach a larger audience and grow your podcast faster.

Avoid traditional ads (paid): Avoid running ads on Facebook, Instagram, and Google, many podcasters have tried them and seen very little to no results. Even if you try, make sure your targeting is very specific. If getting more listeners is your goal, this may not be a good option.

• Promote your podcast more than once
• Begin with one/two marketing methods, and slowly try them all
• Try different promotion strategies to find your best fit.
• Use a single call-to-action per episode, such as “Listen now” or “Subscribe to our podcast”.
• Use analytics to track the effectiveness of your promotions and make adjustments accordingly.

8. Monitor and Improve Your Book Review Podcast

Once you have launched your book review podcast and started promoting it, it’s important to monitor its performance and continually improve it. Here are some tips for monitoring and improving your book review podcast:

Track downloads and retention rate: Use your hosting platform’s analytics to track how many people are downloading and listening to your podcast episodes. Pay attention to your retention rate, which measures how long people are listening to each episode. If you see a drop in retention rate, it may be a sign that your content needs improvement.

Check reviews: Monitor your podcast’s reviews on major platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify (yes, now Spotify also allows users to leave feedback) and respond to any feedback or criticism you receive. Use this feedback to make improvements to your content and format.

Improve: Continually look for ways to improve your podcast, whether it’s through better audio quality, more engaging content, or more effective promotion strategies. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things.

9. Be Consistent with Your Book Review Podcast

One of the keys to building a successful book review  podcast is consistency. Your listeners should know when to expect new episodes and what to expect from each episode. Here are some tips for being consistent with your book review podcast:

Set a schedule: Decide on a regular schedule for releasing new episodes, such as once a week or twice a month. Stick to this schedule as much as possible, so your listeners know when to expect new content.

Plan ahead: Use a planning tool like a Notion, GSheets or notebook to plan out your upcoming episodes and topics. This will help you stay organized and ensure that you have enough content to release on your regular schedule.

Commitment: Be committed to your podcast and make it a priority. This means making sure that you are releasing new episodes on a regular schedule, whether that be weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. Consistency is key when it comes to building an audience and keeping them engaged.

It can be helpful to create a content calendar or a production schedule to help you stay organized and on track. This will allow you to plan out your episodes in advance and make sure that you have everything you need to produce each episode before its scheduled release date.

Additionally, it’s important to be open to feedback from your listeners and to use that feedback to improve your podcast. Whether it’s through reviews on Apple Podcasts or comments on social media, take the time to listen to what your audience is saying and make adjustments accordingly.

FAQ for Starting a book review  Podcast

A. how much does it cost to start a book review  podcast.

The cost of starting a book review  podcast can vary depending on the quality of the equipment you choose, the type of hosting platform you use, and the amount of money you invest in marketing and promotion. In general, you can start a basic podcast for as little as $100 to $200, but more professional setups with higher-quality equipment can cost upwards of $500 or more.

b. How do you start a book review  podcast for beginners?

Starting a book review  podcast for beginners involves several key steps, including defining your podcast goal, planning and preparing your podcast, getting equipment, producing creatives, setting up hosting and socials, recording and editing your podcast, and posting and promoting it to your audience. Following a step-by-step guide or taking a free podcasting course can be helpful for beginners who want to learn more about the process.

c. Do podcasts make money?

Yes, podcasts can make money through a variety of channels, including advertising, sponsorships, and merchandise sales. However, it’s important to keep in mind that building a successful podcast and monetizing it takes time and effort.

d. Can I start a book review  podcast for free?

Yes, it is possible to start a book review podcast for free using platforms like Anchor or even by uploading your episodes to YouTube. However, keep in mind that free hosting platforms often come with limitations and may not offer the same level of control and customization as paid hosting options. Additionally, investing in high-quality equipment and marketing efforts can help you grow your audience and monetize your podcast more effectively.

10. Conclusion

Starting a book review  podcast can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it takes time, effort, and commitment to succeed. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create a high-quality podcast that resonates with your audience and establishes you as a thought leader in the book review  community. Remember to stay consistent, be creative, and have fun throughout the process. With hard work and dedication, your book review podcast can be a valuable resource for fans and enthusiasts alike. So, grab your mic, hit record, and start your podcast journey today!

Hope you enjoyed reading this blog. If you want us to help you start a book review podcast, get in touch !

Happy podcasting 🎤!

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213. The Idea of You Recap Soul and Wit

• Self-Improvement

Today, Courtney and Bailey review "The Idea of You." Released in 2017, the book was recently adapted into a movie. Courtney and Bailey dive deep into both the book and the movie, and share their thoughts in a fun and engaging chat. Please note: this episode contains spoilers!  LISTEN on Apple or Spotify Favorite Things Bailey: Expiration Dates by Rebecca Searle Quiz Lady Favorite Things Courtney: An Anne Hathaway quote from The Interview:  “As a formerly chronically stressed young woman, I just remember thinking one day: You are taking this for granted. You are taking your life for granted. You have no idea. Something could fall through the sky, and that would be lights out. So when I find the old instincts rising, I just tell myself, You are not going to die stressed.” Episode Notes and Resources:  The Idea of You (book) The Idea of You (movie)  Episode 159: Daisy Jones And The Six Nightbitch (book) Nightbitch (movie)  PATREON: Support us on Patreon here! You will get access to a new monthly bonus episode and we’ll send you a love letter.  Where you can find us: Bailey: @beautifuldetour or www.beautifuldetour.com Courtney: @bemorewithless or www.bemorewithless.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Books On Sale

Writers, scientists, & more.

by Amanda · Jun 3, 2024 at 11:30 am · View all 3 comments

A Rulebook for Restless Rogues

A Rulebook for Restless Rogues  by Jess Everlee is $1.99! This is book two in the  Lucky Lovers of London  series and it was mentioned last summer in Dahlia’s Queer Romance Round-Up for July.

London, 1885

David Forester and Noah Clarke have been best friends since boarding school. All grown up now, clever, eccentric Noah is Savile Row’s most promising young tailor, while former socialite David runs an underground queer club, The Curious Fox.

Nothing makes David happier than to keep the incense lit, the pianist playing and all his people comfortable, happy and safe until they stumble out into the dawn. But when the unscrupulous baron who owns the Fox moves to close it, David’s world comes crashing down.

Noah’s never feared a little high-stakes gambling, but as he risks his own career in hopes of helping David, he realizes two things:

One: David has not been honest about how he ended up at The Curious Fox in the first place

Two: Noah’s feelings for David have become far more than friendly

What future lies beyond those first furtive kisses? Noah and David can hardly wait to find out…if they can untangle David from his web of deception without losing everything Noah has worked for.

Add to Goodreads To-Read List →

This book is on sale at:

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A Lady’s Formula for Love

A Lady’s Formula for Love  by Elizabeth Everett is $1.99!  Catherine, Claudia, and Carrie joint reviewed this one and gave it a C+ :

Catherine : Yes, this feels like a C+ to me. The fact that this is a debut makes me pretty excited for the next one, though, because I think that while structural issues can be frustrating, getting to the heart of characters is what we read romances for, fundamentally. And that’s done really well here.

What is a Victorian lady’s formula for love? Mix one brilliant noblewoman and her enigmatic protection officer. Add in a measure of danger and attraction. Heat over the warmth of humor and friendship, and the result is more than simple chemistry–it’s elemental.

Lady Violet is keeping secrets. First, she founded a clandestine sanctuary for England’s most brilliant female scientists. Second, she is using her genius on a confidential mission for the Crown. But the biggest secret of all? Her feelings for protection officer Arthur Kneland.

Solitary and reserved, Arthur learned the hard way to put duty first. But the more time he spends in the company of Violet and the eccentric club members, the more his best intentions go up in flames. Literally.

When a shadowy threat infiltrates Violet’s laboratories, endangering her life and her work, scientist and bodyguard will find all their theories put to the test–and learn that the most important discoveries are those of the heart.

If You Dare

If You Dare  by Kresley Cole is $1.99! This is the first book in the  MacCarrick Brothers  series. Readers might be more familiar with Cole’s paranormal romances, but she started with writing historical romances. Cole typically writes Alpha heroes and this book is no exception.

Kresley Cole introduces a thrilling new romance trilogy featuring fierce Scottish brothers with dangerous lives, dark desires, and a deadly curse.

Can he exact revenge?

High in the Pyrenees, a band of mercenaries led by Courtland MacCarrick wages war for General Reynaldo Pascal. When Court turns on the evil general, Pascal orders him killed, but Court narrowly escapes and exacts revenge by kidnapping Pascal’s exquisite Castilian fiancée.

Can she deny her passions?

Lady Annalía Tristán Llorente despises her towering, barbaric captor almost as much as she does Pascal. Her inexplicable attraction to the Highlander only fuels her fury. But nothing will stop her from returning to Pascal—for if she doesn’t wed him, she signs her brother’s death warrant, as well as her own.

Can there be love between them?

From the moment Court discovers that Anna’s prim façade masks a fiery, brave lass, his heart’s ensnared, and he dares to defy the curse that has shadowed his life— to walk with death or walk alone.  But Pascal vows that he’ll hunt the two, never stopping until he’s destroyed them both.

Plot Twist  by Erin La Rosa is $1.99! I mentioned this on a previous Hide Your Wallet. However, it seems like other readers feel like La Rosa’s books don’t quite stick the landing of all the trope-filled goodness promised.

She’s written off more than she can chew…

Romance author Sophie Lyon’s ironic secret just went viral: she’s never been in love. Though her debut novel made readers swoon, Sophie’s having trouble getting her new characters to happily-ever-after, and she blames it on her own uninspired love life. With a manuscript deadline looming, Sophie makes an ambitious plan to overcome her writer’s block: reunite with her exes to learn why she’s never fallen in love—and document it all for her millions of new online followers. Which also means facing her ex-girlfriend Carla, the one person Sophie  could  have loved.

Luckily, Sophie’s reclusive landlord, Dash Montrose—a former teen heartthrob—has social media all figured out and offers to help. But he doesn’t mention that he’s an anonymous online crafter, a hobby that helps him maintain his sobriety. No one knows about his complicated relationship with alcohol and he intends to keep it that way. His family is Hollywood royalty, so Dash has to steer clear of scandal.

As Sophie and Dash grow closer, they discover a heat between them that rivals Dash’s pottery kiln. But Sophie needs to figure out who she is outside her relationships, and Dash isn’t sure he’s stable enough for the commitment she deserves. So Sophie suggests what any good romance author would: a friends-with-benefits arrangement. Surely a casual relationship won’t cause any trouble…

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Categorized:

General Bitching...

jess everlee , kresley cole , elizabeth everett , Erin La Rosa

Add Your Comment →

The late Julie Garwoods’ RANSOM is on sale at Amazon for $0.99. This is the sequel to one of my favorite of Garwood’s, THE SECRET, and as such was good, but not amazing. I have a copy in hardcover, but I’ll be adding a kindle copy now too.

CW FOR “RULEBOOK FOR RESTLESS ROGUES” NOT INCLUDED IN THE LIST on the author’s website: the book opens in the immediate aftermath of intense corporal punishment. Specifically, ch. 1 begins with a boy being ordered to get up off the ground by the headmaster who’d just extensively beaten him with a cane. Will be contacting the author after I’ve calmed down and figured out how to word it, bc JFC.

@Liz, thank you for that–I’ll be skipping this one!

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Best Buy and Amazon Introduce Steep Discounts on M2 and M3 MacBook Air [Updated]

Best Buy has a huge collection of discounts on Apple's MacBook Air this weekend, including both the previous generation M2 models from 2022 and the brand new M3 computers that launched this year. In regards to the M2 models, you'll find the best deals at Amazon.

M2 MacBook Air

Amazon today has every model of the 2022 13-inch MacBook Air available for $170 off, representing new all-time low prices on the notebooks. These prices are available to all shoppers and do not require a coupon code.

The 256GB model is on sale for $829.00 and the 512GB model is available for $1,029.00 . These deals beat the previous prices we tracked earlier in the year by about $50.

$170 OFF 13-inch M2 MacBook Air (256GB) for $829.00 $170 OFF 13-inch M2 MacBook Air (512GB) for $1,029.00

You can get both models in all four colors: Starlight, Space Gray, Silver, and Midnight. Following the introduction of the M3 MacBook Air, Apple knocked the price of the 13-inch M2 MacBook Air down by $100, and it's still selling them alongside the M3 model.

M3 MacBook Air

You can find all-time low prices across the 15-inch M3 MacBook Air lineup at Best Buy, including up to $100 off these 2024 computers. Prices start at $1,199.00 for the 256GB model, and include both 512GB versions of the computer as well.

Head to our full Deals Roundup to get caught up with all of the latest deals and discounts that we've been tracking over the past week.

Update: We've updated the M2 MacBook Air section with new record low prices from Amazon.

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their not selling so good I guess. MacBook Air just updated and discounted heavily already.

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