What Should I Read Next?

When big changes happened in Caleb Wilson-Johnson's life, his reading life shifted, too. Today, he's eager for Anne's suggestions after two exciting changes derailed his previous strategy of choosing his next read. Caleb used to love planning his entire reading year in advance, and especially enjoyed pairing books with the season—sometimes down to the specific month or even day. But Caleb recently got married and moved across the state to live with his new husband. Both of these joyful events shook up his previous reading routine. Caleb's interested in exploring what a new path forward might look like as he enjoys these other new starts in his life. Today, Caleb and Anne explore how Caleb can bring a fresh outlook to planning his upcoming reads, and Anne recommends a handful of engaging and plotty books that will keep Caleb reading until the last page. Find all of the titles we discussed today on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/426 Our 13th annual Summer Reading Guide is only a few weeks away from landing in inboxes, and we'd love to invite you to join us for this year's book party. We'll be hosting two live events, both on May 16th, and you're invited. Get all of the details and find out how to get your guide at our at modernmrsdarcy.com/srg. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A recent career shift has opened up more reading time for today's guest, and Tara Bañuelos is looking to make the most of this abundance by exploring new-to-her genres and overlooked backlist titles. Tara lives in Washington, D.C., where she practices law. In the past, she's relied on reading for her preferred form of stress management. But with her recent career shift, Tara's finally able to read for pleasure again, and not just anxiety relief. Tara's been loving what this has meant for her reading selections, and she's not suffering for choice: Tara's access to the regional library system in her area means she has a whopping total of 15 library cards, which she primarily uses for ebook access. Tara's not sad about this, but she needs a better system to manage her multiple library holds that often come in all at once. Today, she and Anne identify patterns, hone in on Tara's reading taste and create a plan for moving forward.  Leave your recommendations for Tara and see the list of titles mentioned in today's episode at our show notes page, whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/425. We're only weeks away from releasing our 13th annual Summer Reading Guide. This is our team's marquee event for the year, and we are so excited for what's in store for 2024. We celebrate the start of the season with a huge book party, and you're invited. Learn more, save your seat, and pre-order your guide at our Summer Reading Guide page. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Recovering from a reading slump can be challenging, and today's guest credits a book subscription box for saving her reading life.  In today's episode, Anne Bogel is chatting with Tiffany Vicars, a pharmacist, mom and State Fair prize-winning paper crafter in Louisville, Kentucky. Tiffany knows reading is her highest form of self-care, but the past few years have been disruptive to her reading life in both good and challenging ways. Tiffany tried a few approaches to re-boot her reading life, but nothing stuck until she tried out a book subscription box and figured out a way to make its promised combination of curation and discovery work for her.  These days, Tiffany is thrilled with her overflowing, never-ending TBR, but she'd also like to make sure she's not just reaching for what she calls the new and glittery books. Today, she and Anne talk about which of the titles on Tiffany's TBR deserve to be bumped to the top of her current reading priority list. Find the full list of the titles discussed today and leave your recommendations for Tiffany on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/424. Join Anne to celebrate Indie Bookstore Week at ​The Bookshelf​ in Thomasville, GA on Thursday, April 25. Anne will be joining Bookshelf owner Annie B. Jones to talk about summer reading. Tickets are on sale on the Bookshelf's website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest is Susan Meissner, a historical fiction author based in the Pacific Northwest. You might know Susan from books like Only the Beautiful and The Nature of Fragile Things: Susan is also a reader and listener and today she's here to talk with Anne about her readerly dilemma. Susan writes character-driven, historical fiction: sometimes books like hers are described as “quiet” and she’s okay with that. Susan knows what she loves to write and what she loves to read. But lately, there have been whispers in the industry that this kind of “quieter” historical fiction is not what readers want right now. Instead, today’s readers are seeking out short, snappy, and plotty books. At least, that’s the conventional industry wisdom these days. So what does that mean for Susan and everyone else loves to read and write "quiet" books? As a lover of these types of books herself, Anne's been mulling over Susan's query, and in today's conversation, they unpack the quiet novel and discuss its place in today’s literary landscape. They dive into questions like what it even means to call a book “quiet” and whether readers have indeed lost their appetite for them, before sharing titles that are highly character-driven while also offering incredibly compelling plots. Whether you know you like quiet books or aren't quite sure, today's show is sure to pique your curiosity. Find the full list of titles discussed today and share your thoughts (and book recommendations) with Susan on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/423. Stay up to date with What Should I Read Next events and happenings, like the upcoming book festivals Anne is speaking at this season. Subscribe to our email newsletter and you’ll receive all the essential information: sign up at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/newsletter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's bookish goal: finding the right books to fuel a reader's wanderlust. Georgia-based Joy has traveled extensively and even lived abroad, but now that she's not on the road, she's looking to load up her bookshelf with titles that will take her vicariously to places she can't get to right now in real life.  Joy know what she loves when she reads it, but she's struggled with finding a good system when it comes to selecting her travel reads in the first place. Today, she and Anne explore that struggle. After closely examining Joy's loves, as well as a title or two that hasn't worked so well for her, Anne adds both fiction and nonfiction travel narratives to Joy's to-be-read stack that she will actually enjoy reading next.  See the full list of titles mentioned and add your suggestions for Joy by leaving a comment on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/422. Keep up with upcoming bookish events, like Anne's upcoming appearances at literary festivals this spring, by visiting ​our events page​. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest's love of reading was reignited in late 2022 when she found a path into the bookish zeitgeist by reading a super-popular series. Around the same time, Julie Van Huizen found herself surrounded by her friends' end-of-year reading wrap-ups, which left her feeling inspired, intimidated, challenged, and curious. That curiosity led Julie to declare 2023 her year of intentional reading, and it ended up being an exceptional experience that she and Anne talk about today. Julie and Anne explore the monthly reading formula that works for Julie, and what makes for a satisfying reading "diet". They also talk about the power of getting plugged into what Julie calls “the book people network” and why she’s so excited about being part of the literary and pop culture conversations. Anne's recommendations today are full of all of the ingredients Julie loves on her shelf. If you have ideas for Julie, we'd love to hear your recommendations: please leave a comment on our show notes page, where you'll also find the list of all the titles we discussed in today's show. That's at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/421. If you’d like more book talk without having to join BookTok, you'll love our Patreon community! Patrons enjoy a whole range of bonus episodes and special events, while also playing a huge part in bringing this show to your listening ears each week. If you’re already a patron, THANK YOU so much. If you’re not, it might be just the book community you’re looking for. Find out more at our Patreon site. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, Anne talks with Courtney Dezahd about discovering themes in her reading and finding novels that will stick with her long after she turns the last page.  Courtney is a marketing professional and a mom whose reading tastes range from World War I history to outdoor survival stories and beyond. But lately, she's really honed in on themes she always finds satisfying, like stories of unrequited love and the triumph of the human spirit. Courtney's looking to find more books that will stick with her for years, if not decades, and deliver soul-changing reading experiences. Anne has recommendations that speak to Courtney's bookish quest. We've collected the full list of those titles on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/420. In today's episode, you'll also hear a brief update about our recent change to the Airwave Media Podcast Network. If you'd like to share your opinions to help inform our future partnerships with advertisers, we'd be grateful for your time and input. There's a short survey at this link, and it would be a big help to us.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest Farrah Rochon is passionate about the romance genre, Disney, and the city of New Orleans (among other things), and today Farrah and Anne dive into all of the juicy details. Farrah is a prolific romance author with 45 books to her name, so you may be as surprised as we were to learn that she never intended to write in this genre in the first place. Obviously, that's changed, and today she and Anne chat about what drew her to this particular genre, what she's learned over the years, and her current writing process as an obsessive plotter.  They also get into the state of the industry and what it means for Farrah's writing life these days. Find the full list of the titles we discussed today, including Farrah's two forthcoming books, on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/419. We'd love it if you'd leave a comment suggesting a romance novel you've loved lately. Finally, if you've heard a few small changes in recent episodes, that's because we’ve recently made the change to the Airwave Media network. We share more about this at the top of today's episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Amy Rohn joins Anne to talk about literal literary matchmaking: the ups and downs of her life as a reader in search of real-life romance. We’re exploring what she looks for in a partner, whether they’re a reader or not, and truly baffling stories from her attempts at talking to men on dating apps about books. Plus, we discuss Amy's newfound love affair with nonfiction after a lifetime of sticking to fantastical fiction, bookstore architecture, stylish prose, the book she had a huge grudge against in middle school. Of course, Anne plays matchmaker herself, recommending three titles Amy may enjoy reading next! Today's conversation, which you may have heard when it originally aired in 2020 as Episode 221,  is just as good the second time around. If you think you're Amy's book twin or you have recommendations for her or readers with similar tastes, please let us know in the comments section over on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/418. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wintry books and seasonally inspired reads are a common passion for readers worldwide, whether you're currently in our northern hemisphere winter, or you're experiencing another season right now. Today's guest has a deep love for all things hygge and winter, and this is absolutely reflected in the pages of her favorite reads. Sarah Butler is joining Anne today from her home in Brooklyn, where she works at the library in a dream job for a book lover. Sarah's always loved winter, but after discovering the Scandinavian approach to the cold and dark months, she has embraced the season even more in her life and in her reading life. Today Anne and Sarah talk about books that deliver on that wintry feeling, and Anne recommends a stack of wintry books Sarah can really burrow into this snowy season. Find that full list of titles over on our show notes page, at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/417. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's conversation, Anne helps Reagan Jackson find compelling reads that tell good stories. Reagan is a Seattle-based journalist and co-executive director of Young Women Empowered. She’s also the author of the forthcoming book, Still True: The Evolution of a Reluctant Journalist, which tells stories of Seattle's Black and intersectional community. Today, Reagan and I talk her recent sabbatical travels as well as what's happening lately in her reading life. From her search for emotionally honest romance to the popular classic she hates and the memoirs she can’t put down, Reagan's excited to find some fresh discoveries in the genres she loves and those she's just started to explore, like graphic novels. Anne gives Reagen suggestions for the types of stories she’s eager to explore right now. Find the full list of titles mentioned today and leave your suggestions for Reagan on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/416. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Natalie Nava's guest submission caught our team's eye as a particularly timely topic for January: she was eager to talk to Anne about reading as it relates to wintering, burnout, and recovery.  After a decade of working in social advocacy, Natalie realized back in 2020 that she was dealing with serious burnout. One of the clues that something needed to change was Natalie's realization that, despite being an avid reader, she'd barely read any books in a few years. Natalie decided it was time to act: she quit her job and moved to Portland, and since then, she's reclaimed reading as one of her favorite pastimes. We know many readers might see themselves in Natalie's story, and today she and Anne are talking about the techniques that Natalie used to recover from her serious burnout. Anne also adds titles to Natalie's winter reading queue, including suggestions for the genres Natalie's excited to explore in the year ahead.  Find the full list of titles mentioned today and connect with Natalie on Goodreads. We have all of those links on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/415, where we'd love to see your recommendations for Natalie in our comments section. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest reached out seeking help with a specific reading dilemma. We loved her request, and we’re sure it's something many readers have experienced. Amy's joining Anne on the show today from her Vermont home on 11 acres where she homeschools her teenager, works as a part-time sustainability consultant, and cares for an eclectic collection of pets! Amy has always loved to read, but recently, her family’s budget has shifted. She's always been a library user, but lately she's looking for new perspectives on what her financial change means for her reading life. Anne and Amy talk about reframing Amy's reading selections so she doesn’t feel like she’s missing out when she can’t read a new release right away. And, Anne shares some suggestions on how Amy can turn this unplanned for-reality into a lovely limitation. Find the full list of titles discussed today at our show notes page, and while you're there, let us know if you have suggestions for Amy, too: that's at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/414. Our Spring Book Preview, one of our signature bookish experiences, is happening January 25, and there are three ways to experience it yourself: join us on Patreon with a monthly or annual pledge, become a member of our Modern Mrs Darcy Book Club, or purchase an a la carte ticket. Find out more and select the best option for you at modernmrsdarcy.com/sbp. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You're likely familiar with the work of today's guest: literary agent Elisabeth Weed, of the boutique literary agency The Book Group. Elisabeth has had a hand in bringing you many recent popular titles, and today she and Anne talking about the current literary landscape. From the trends Elisabeth is seeing (and what they mean for readers and writers) to how TikTok continues to influence the book trade, they cover a lot of ground in today's conversation. Elisabeth also shares her predictions for 2024 and a few of the titles she’s most excited about for late 2023 and early 2024. Listen in for a good behind-the-scenes look at the factors shaping today’s literary offerings, plus a few choice book recommendations on titles you might otherwise miss. Find the full list of books mentioned today on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/413. Our big Spring Book Preview is happening Thursday January 25 at 8:30pm EST. Access this fun live event by becoming a Patron, joining our Modern Mrs Darcy Book Club, or purchasing your a la carte ticket at modernmrsdarcy.com/sbp. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last year, we had so much fun putting together an episode featuring Anne's favorite reads, and it was a listener favorite, too! We're back today with the 2023 edition: Anne is again joined by her husband and show producer Will Bogel to talk all about her reading superlatives from last year. Choosing the best books from a full year of reading is tough as well as fascinating, and today Anne shares her own best, favorite, and most memorable reading experiences of 2023. She'll also take you along in her process of evaluating what she read over the year and deciding how to select her favorites. We'd love to know if any of these made your top reads of the year, or if you have other titles you'd like to share: let us know in the comments section on our show notes page, at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/412. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, Anne is joined by Kim Hewlett to talk about creating a year of seasonal reading. Kim and her family relocated to Iowa a few years back, which led Kim to realize just how much she enjoys pairing books with the seasons. Kim's set a 2024 reading goal to reach for the right books at just the right time, no matter the time of year. Kim's name may sound familiar: last fall Anne spoke with her daughter Noa in Episode 347: A reader's guide to tricky transitions. Today, Kim's excited to talk with Anne about leaning into a year of seasonally appropriate book selections. This is a theme we've heard repeatedly from our listeners lately, so we thought this could be really helpful for many of you: instead of recommending three books to Kim's particular taste, Anne recommends a whole bunch of books that take place during specific seasons and key moments, milestones, and holidays throughout the year. We hope today's roundup of a whole year's worth of reading recommendations will tide you over for an extra week. This is our last episode of 2023, before our team takes some time off to enjoy relaxing (and reading, of course) over the holidays. We'll be back on January 2 with our next episode. Find the complete list of all of the titles mentioned today on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/411. While you're there, be sure to check out our shop: we have some great last-minute gifts, like a membership to our Modern Mrs Darcy Book Club. Gift your favorite reader a 3, 6, or 12 month membership: since it's digital, it's easy to deliver anywhere, anytime. Find out more at modernmrsdarcy.com/shop. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We all know that travel and reading go really well together. Today's guest, Dana Prescott, is looking for books to help prepare for her upcoming bucket list trip: she and her husband are taking ten weeks to travel to Australia and Southeast Asia next spring. Dana loves to travel, and she'll often learn more about her destinations beforehand by reading books that represent the countries in question. We got doubly excited about Dana's project here at What Should I Read Next? because not only does it sound amazing, but we also have a team member who is perfectly positioned to support Dana's reading request. Our media production specialist, Holly Wielkoszewski, has spent the last six months traveling through the very same countries Dana is making her big plans for. I invited Holly to join me today as guest recommender, and she has book ideas galore for Dana. Listen in to hear which books Dana will load her pre-travel to-be-read list with, and find the full list of titles mentioned at our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/410. If you're still on the hunt for a perfect gift for your favorite reader, gifting a reading journal might be just the ticket. We have two in our shop and out on bookshelves everywhere: My Reading Life, which is created for adults, and My Reading Adventures, designed for kids ages 8 to 12 (but used and loved by readers of all ages.) Order your copy of one or both journals wherever you like to buy your books, or order signed and even personalized copies from modernmrsdarcy.com/shop.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our guest today may be familiar to many of you: Ariel Lawhon was one of Anne's early guests, back in Episode 15, and Anne recently recommended Ariel's new book The Frozen River in Episode 393. Today, Ariel is joining Anne to talk about books and publishing, from Ariel's new release, to the unexpected way her books have aligned with the literary Zeitgeist. They also explore why some stories stay with you long after you finish them, and discuss their mutual love for seasoned female protagonists. Ariel wraps up by sharing some of her favorite books and the titles high on her to-be-read list. We've collected the full list of titles mentioned today at our show notes page, at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/409. If you're hunting for a great gift for any style of reader or anyone who shares the love of a good book, Anne's book I'd Rather Be Reading might be just what you're looking for. Make it even more meaningful by getting your copy signed and personalized, or pairing it with one of our totes, some bookplates, or a sticker. Place your order at modernmrsdarcy.com/shop. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We love a creative reading project, so when Allison Virtue told us about her global reading project, we couldn’t wait to hear more. Allison lives in Los Angeles, where she's set a goal to read a book written by an author from every country. We've had unique reading projects like Allison's on the show in the past: you may recall Episode 168: A century of good books (in a single year). When it comes to Allison's goal of reading around the world, she’s made good headway so far but she’d appreciate Anne's help in discovering titles to add to her global to-be-read list. Anne and Allison discuss her project as well as how Allison recovered from a recent reading slump, and Anne offers tips to help Allison more easily find titles that fit her project's criteria. Anne also suggests some titles Allison can add to her global reading list today. Find the full list of books mentioned today at our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/408. And, be sure to check out our Modern Mrs Darcy store: we have a great selection of small gifts and accessories that pair well with a good book for your favorite reader. Explore our shop at modernmrsdarcy.com/store, where you can also order signed and personalized copies of Anne's books just in time for holiday gifting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest loves to read, but she also loves to knit: how can she find the books to hold her attention so she's not tempted to pick up her knitting needles? Patty Brown lives in Bend, Oregon, where she enjoys outdoor activities like cycling, as well as indoor activities like knitting. She's been a reader in the past, but lately she's struggled to find the books she'll find too compelling to put down. In fact, it's been such a long time since Patty felt connected to her reading life, that when she ventures into the bookstore looking for inspiration, it backfires: when faced with all those options, Patty feels like a deer in the headlights—and ends up leaving empty-handed.  Today, Anne talks with Patty about finding the books that are right for this moment in her reading life, as well as techniques that might make her feel more comfortable the next time she visits her neighborhood bookstore.  Find the full list of titles we discussed in today's episode, and leave your suggestions for Patty, at our show notes page: that's at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/407. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Each year, we recommend books for the readers on your holiday season gift list. While it's become one of our favorite annual traditions, this year we're putting a fresh spin on it: for the first time, our team members are joining Anne to offer their gifting recommendations. Over the past few weeks, we've collected listener requests for book recommendations for everyone from young kids to elders, and today's episode is full of so many fantastic recommendations. Even if you didn't send in a question, you're sure to hear about a book that's perfect for you or a reader you love. Find the full list of titles mentioned today on our show notes page, at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/406. ***** Deliver your holiday book gifts in a sturdy tote, or pair them with book darts: our merch is in stock, including signed and personalized copies of all my books (we are low on stock in many t-shirt sizes). Explore our store and shop at modernmrsdarcy.com/store. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you enjoy your fall reading with a dose of magic, villainy, and self-discovery, you're not alone. For today's guest, fall reading is all about the vibes. Grace lives in South Carolina, and while her fall reading agenda includes books with a darker twist or magical flair, she also gets that fall-reading feeling from titles that feature thoughtful plots and introspective characters. Anne and Grace talk about the types of titles Grace might especially enjoy this season, with an emphasis on audiobooks, a format Grace has especially enjoyed lately. Anne leaves Grace with recommendations that she might find especially enjoyable for pumpkin spice season.  Find the full list of the books discussed today on our show notes pages at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/405. *** We've restocked our merch! Be sure to pop over to our online store and check out our reading tees, bookplates, stickers, and more. You can also order personalized copies of Anne's books, which make a great gift for your favorite reader. Find all of that at modernmrsdarcy.com/store. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Knowing what you enjoy on the page can feel simple, but finding new books to deliver that reading experience isn't always so easy. In today's episode, Anne is talking with Katherine Kwong. Katherine lives in Nashville, where she enjoys reading along with an assortment of other creative hobbies. While she knows that she enjoys fantastical stories and satisfying endings, she's eager to find new ways to understand her reading selections. Katherine would love to identify authors she can return to again and again, and she's also interested in starting to read more outside of her comfort zone. Anne gives Katherine some fresh perspectives on her reading choices, and shares a selection of titles that speak to Katherine's current reading goals.  Find the full list of titles mentioned today on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/404, where you're also invited to leave your suggestions for Katherine in the comments section. Our annual gift recommendation episode is coming soon, but if you just can't wait for bookish gift giving, be sure to check out our 2023 MMD gift guide for book lovers​, and its companion, our ​2023 MMD gift guide for bookish kids​ on Modern Mrs Darcy.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A devoted nonfiction reader is struggling to find her way in the fiction section, and Anne is here to help. Amye Day Ong, who lives in Dallas, Texas, with her husband and young children, knows how to find the nonfiction titles that she won't be able to put down. But when it comes to fiction, Amye feels lost. Amye would love to better understand why she might like or dislike a certain fiction title before she picks it up. She's hoping to gain some insight so that she can better tell in advance which titles will turn out to suit her readerly taste, instead of her current approach of hauling a whole range of titles home from the library. Amye and Anne take a closer look at common elements of the fiction picks that have worked well for Amye in the past, and Anne offers some tips for the future, along with recommendations for specific fiction titles Amye might enjoy reading next. Find the full list of titles discussed today at our show notes page, whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/403. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our guest today is looking for immersive, transportive reading experiences that she can get lost in. Ellen Harry, who lives in North Carolina with her girlfriend and beloved pets, loves to travel. But when she's not exploring a new destination, she's equally drawn to adventures on the page, and is always eager to explore new-to-her stories and perspectives. Anne and Ellen chat about stories that deliver a sense of escape and adventure and Anne suggests a few riveting reads that will feed Ellen's adventurous spirit. Find the full list of the titles mentioned today on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/402. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Seasonal reading means different things to different readers, and today's guest is searching for spine-tingling, scary reads for her fall selections. Jenea Lyles is a full-time graduate student and a devoted horror movie fan. She's happy to be recovering from a reading slump, and right now, she's looking for more stories on the scarier side into her reading life. She's dabbled in reading spine-tingling tales before, but knows there's a lot more out there to explore. Anne will help Jenea assemble a stack of titles that feel just right for Halloween season, while still making room for a little bit of whimsy. Find the full list of the books mentioned today on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/401. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we are celebrating our 400th episode by sharing a collection of your questions, stories, and favorite What Should I Read Next? moments. A few weeks ago, we asked for your input, and our team had such a great time reading through your responses. Today, Anne is joined by Modern Mrs Darcy Co-Host and Contributor Shannan Malone in reading through your submissions one by one and sharing memories, laughs, unexpected discoveries, and more. Thanks so much to each of you who makes it possible for us to create a podcast where we get to talk books every single week—we're so grateful to be here.  We mention a whole bunch of past episodes during today's conversation, and we've collected that list, along with the books discussed today, over on our show notes page. Find that at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/400. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Each of Sonya Dutta Choudhury's three book clubs fills a unique space in her reading life, and today she's joining Anne to chat about her home library, what she's looking for in her books these days, and what she calls the DNA of book clubs. Sonya is a writer, journalist, and former banker who splits her time between Mumbai, India and the Himalayan town of Manali. She's typically reading multiple titles at once, but she doesn't like to feel too regimented in her reading, preferring to keep the door open for something new that will surprise and delight her. That said, Sonya's interested in bringing some structure to her reading life, especially when it comes to rereading: she often finds herself easily distracted by new to her books that catch her eye, and would love to spend more time with old favorites. Anne offers Sonya some ideas to bring rereading back into her regular reading rhythm. Find the full list of titles discussed today and leave your recommendations for Sonya on our show notes page, at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/399. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After a satisfying summer of reading the twisty thrillers and entertaining books she really enjoys when the temperatures rise, Melanie Steimle is ready to discover some transitional books for the fall reading season. Melanie lives in Utah, where she enjoys cake decorating and her favorite adjacent bookish hobby: keeping close track of her reading in her book journal and associated spreadsheets (and looking forward to her end-of-December book stats review.) While Melanie feels confident about the types of books she's looking for this time of year, she'd love some help finding specific titles that fit this reading preference. Melanie's looking for more literary picks than she typically reads in the summer, but she's not quite ready for the heftier and often darker reads she enjoys in the winter. She'd love Anne's help in bridging this gap and creating a fall reading list featuring titles that will deliver an immersive, highly discussable reading experience. Find the full list of titles discussed today and leave your suggestions for Melanie on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/398. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's conversation will whet your appetite for a good read, as Anne talks cookbooks and culinary reading with cookbook author and book lover Bri McKoy. In today's show, Anne and Bri talk about the art of reading and writing cookbooks and the kitchen lessons Bri's distilled into her new release, The Cook's Book. They also put a fresh spin on book flights by pairing some favorite novels with their perfect food or drink partners. Listen in and take a look at this delicious genre from a new perspective. Connect with Bri at her website, and find the full list of titles mentioned today on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/397. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You're invited to experience a taste of our Patreon community! For today's episode, we've selected two recent bonus episodes that our patrons especially enjoyed, and bundled them together for you to hear. Our bonus episodes come in a variety of formats, and today you'll hear examples of two of these: first, we're sharing a recent Industry Insights bonus episode where Anne takes you behind the scenes of the world of bestseller lists, from what they mean and how they're compiled, to why it matters for your reading life. After that, you'll hear a recent episode from our Dear Book Therapist series, where Anne addresses vexing, bookish conundrums submitted by our patrons, like how to deal with overflowing TBR lists, how to get out of a reading rut, or just navigating big changes in your reading life. You'll also hear a few words from several current patrons sharing what they love most about being a part of our Patreon community. Join us on Patreon to unlock over 200 bonus episodes and help support our show, and find the full list of titles mentioned in today's show notes at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/396. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest grew up with a deep love for science fiction and fantasy. While his reading tastes have broadened as an adult, he's still drawn to stories that come with a bit of magic. Sai Sion recently moved from New Orleans to Austin, Texas, where he enjoys his career as an actor and podcaster. He's found that reading helps him to make sense of what's happening in his life off the page, too, and he'd love Anne's help in discovering new reads to match the next chapter of his life journey. He's also eager to add more non-Western authors to his reading list. Anne delivers a round-up of recommendations that will hopefully spark some new magic in Sai's reading life. Connect with Sai and find the full list of books mentioned today at our show notes page, at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/395. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In what's become a bit of a tradition, members of our team are pairing up on today's episode to share the summer reads we've loved this year and talk about what summer reading means to each of us. From the titles we haven't been able to stop thinking about to the tropes and trends of our summer reading picks, today's episode features nine of our team members doing one of the things we all love most—talking books and reading. Today's episode features an especially long list of books, and you'll find the full list of every title mentioned today over on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Anne is joined in conversation with Shana Ferguson, a NYC-based stage manager with a particularly bookish concern: she doesn't often feel like a "real" reader. Of course, we think any kind of reader is a "real" reader, so Anne couldn't wait to encourage Shana on her personal reading journey. Shana loves her work backstage, and in her downtime you’ll often find her baking or drinking tea. Sometimes she’ll also have a book in her hands, but as the daughter of dedicated readers, Shana’s struggled at times to have a firm grasp on her own reading identity. Shana would love Anne's support in getting some new insight on her reading life, and she's also eager to reconnect with the genres that she loved when she was a younger and more habitual reader: historical fiction, sci-fi, and fantasy. Anne's hopeful Shana feels like a “real" reader after their talk today, and comes away with a short stack of titles she’s excited to read next. See the full list of titles mentioned today at our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/393. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Memoir is a well-loved genre for so many readers, and today Anne is joined by R. Eric Thomas to talk about the wise, sobering, hilarious, and heartbreaking sketches in his own works, as well as some of the memoirs they each love best. You may know R. Eric Thomas from his works Here For It or Congratulations, The Best is Over! (a 2023 Summer Reading Guide pick) which just released today. Anne couldn't stop thinking about this collection of essays, and today she and Eric enjoy a delightful conversation about his work, the art of storytelling, embracing midlife, and so much more. We've included links to Eric's website and Instagram account, as well as the full list of titles discussed today, at our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/392. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For many guests, picking three favorite reads is a struggle, but today's guest Annie McCloskey has a unique way of tracking her all-time favorites. Between her beloved book clubs and her well-stocked home library, Annie is quite happy with her reading life. She's been a long-time listener who's always wanted to be on the podcast and today that conversation is happening! Anne and Annie talk about what reading looks like in Annie's life right now, the types of titles she'd love to read more of, and the mini summer reading guide Annie creates each year for the readers in her circle. Annie would love some picks that may surprise her, and Anne delivers a roundup of recommendations. See the full list of all the titles mentioned today and leave a comment with your recommendations for Annie at our show notes page. You'll find that link at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/391. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest has a big move on the horizon and is eager to find books that will ease that transition. Nadia Sussman has always lived in New Zealand, but this summer she's moving to Michigan to pursue a master's degree. Nadia's never been to the United States before, and she's eager for reading recommendations that will introduce her to her new community, as well as audiobooks that will keep her entertained on the 17-hour flight from New Zealand to the United States. In today's episode, Anne and Nadia discuss Nadia's big adventure, and Anne recommends books for this next stage in Nadia's life and career. Find the full list of the titles mentioned today, and leave your suggestions for Nadia, on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/390. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A long-delayed family trip to Europe doubles as an opportunity to explore the literary landscape of three incredible destinations. Today, Anne and Will are here to tell you all about it. Anne, Will, and their kids recently returned from their visit to England, France, and Spain. In addition to sightseeing, they indulged in some deeply enjoyable literary tourism. Listen in to hear more about their favorite bookstores big and small as well as the authors and titles they enjoyed and discovered along the way. Today's full list of books (and bookstores) mentioned is available on our show notes page, whatshouldireadnexxtpodcast.com/389. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you've ever felt the weight of a to-be-read list, today's conversation may be just the permission slip your reading life needs. Today Anne's chatting with Chicago-based Daniel Evola. Daniel was an early reader who got a head start on the classics, and while he's still interested in reading a number of "must-read" books, lately he's been enjoying exploring new-to-him titles and authors that deliver fresh perspectives. Daniel hopes that having a better feel for what he's loving in his reading life will help him find more of the types of stories he's really enjoying right now. He and Anne talk about the themes he's leaning into lately, as well as how his longtime love of one genre is changing. Anne wraps up by suggesting some new-to-him titles Daniel will enjoy as he continues his journey of discovery and excitement. You'll find the full list of titles discussed today at our show notes page, whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/388, where we'd love to see your comments and suggestions for books Daniel would enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Striking that perfect balance between "serious literature" and light reading can be tricky, and today Anne's talking all about it with guest Jake Sloofman. Jake, an arborist living in Brooklyn, NY, has big reading goals, but sometimes he feels stuck in between the heavy and light reads on his list. He'd love Anne's help to find both weighty literature and frothy “palate cleanser” books that will make reading feel like a vacation. Today's conversation, which you may have heard when it originally aired as Episode 277 in April 2021, is even better the second time around. Listen in, and if you have suggestions for books that Jake may want to add to his list, we'd love to hear from you: let us know in the comments section over on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/387.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Diving into an unfamiliar genre is a great way to expand your reading identity, but it can also feel pretty intimidating. Today, Anne's here to help curious reader Caitlin Moran explore easy entry points for unfamiliar genres. Caitlin lives in the Pacific Northwest with her fiancé, where she enjoys reading along with her book club and finding new titles at her favorite indie bookstores. After being pleasantly surprised by her experience with a few book club choices, she’s curious what else might be out there that she’ll love, too. In their conversation today, Anne introduces titles in genres Caitlin doesn’t typically read or has just begun to explore. Plus, they dive into one of Caitlin's current niche interests: spooky books and titles set in New Orleans. Please share your recommended reads, especially those spooky New Orleans recommendations, over in the comments section on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/386. That's also where you'll find the full list of titles mentioned in today's show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest has a standing interest in books that deliver a strong sense of atmosphere, and Anne's got some new recommendations to share. Corin Cook lives and works in Rhode Island, where she makes the most of New England's seasonal rhythms. When summer rolls around, she’s usually devouring books that help her experience the season more fully, and this summer, Corin has her sights set on Europe.  Anne couldn't wait to talk to Corin about her immersive Summer of European Reading project. Corin's drawing inspiration from some of her favorite films and searching for books that defy tourist cliches and transport her to Europe’s bustling cities or its beautiful Mediterranean coast. Anne recommends titles that deliver a specific sort of laid-back feeling of being in Europe in the summertime. Find that full list of titles mentioned in today's episode at our show notes page: whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/385. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest grew up reading fiction for fun, but as she got older, she felt the pressure to read for work and self-improvement. Today, Effie Alofoje-Carr joins Anne to talk about finding her way back to the whimsical reads she loved when she was younger. As a Michigan-based mom & wife juggling a consulting career and a business, Effie doesn't want to entirely close the book on professional reading: she appreciates how these types of titles support her professional growth. But, Effie's ready to refocus her energy on reading for pleasure, and wants Anne's help in building a list of titles that will bring that delight back into her reading life. Find the list of Anne's recommendations and the rest of the titles mentioned today over on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/384. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You may know Anne's favorite novels feature complicated family relationships, and today's guest, author Amy Jo Burns, shares Anne's appreciation for this particular type of story. You may know Amy from her novel Shiner and memoir Cinderland, both of which we've talked about on the show. Amy's also a dedicated reader, and her recommendations for smartly written stories and big-hearted family novels often end up on Anne's to-be-read list, too. Anne and Amy dive into a lively conversation today, talking about the titles they both love, sharing recommendations for overlooked gems in this genre, and chatting about Amy's forthcoming novel Mercury. You'll find the full list of titles discussed today, and links to where you can find Amy's work, over on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/383. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you've ever wondered about the process of adapting books for the screen, you'll want to tune in to today's episode. Joining Anne on the show is Kat Ramsburg, who has what some might call a dream job: she reads YA books to decide which ones will translate beautifully to screen, and then works on forthcoming TV and film adaptations of these popular titles.  While Kat loves this career and the books it sends her way, she also wishes she had more time to reflect on her reading, and read more of the quiet, contemplative types of stories that don’t always make for the most exciting television. Anne and Kat have a great conversation about the art of adapting your favorite books to the screen, before Anne gives Kat suggestions for titles she can enjoy when she's not reading for work. You'll find that full list of books and more at our show notes page, at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/382. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Even for dedicated readers, it can be tricky to find the right summer reading formula. Our Summer Reading Guide is here to help, and today Anne is talking all about summer reading with our Modern Mrs Darcy Book Club community manager Ginger Horton. Ginger made her What Should I Read Next? debut in 2021 in Episode 283: Don't save the good stuff, and today she's back to talk about finding her way when it comes to summer reading. Ginger and Anne chat about a whole bunch of Summer Reading Guide books, past and present, and Anne recommends a few titles that speak to what Ginger's seeking for this summer's reading experiences. If you joined our Unboxing Party for the 2023 Summer Reading Guide last week, we hope you had as much fun as we did! If you missed it and want to grab your copy (and access to the recording of that delightful book party), you'll find that link as well as the full list of all the titles discussed today at our show notes page, whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/381. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our 12th annual Summer Reading Guide releases this week! We put so much time and effort into this big, big project. This year, we decided it would be fun to bring you along with us for a peek behind the scenes of how the guide gets created. Today’s narrative episode features a bunch of voice notes and actual conversations between members of our team that take you into the nitty-gritty of making the SRG. Listen in to excerpts from team meetings about the guide, conversations about book-math, the excruciating (and arts & crafts heavy) process of final book selection, and many more of the details that go into making what has been a summer reading staple for many of you since 2012.  We've had so much fun along the way, and can't wait to share some of that journey with you before you open up your 2023 Summer Reading Guide. We're pushing "publish" on the 2023 guide on Thursday, May 18 at 8:00am EDT (that's NYC time). To get your guide: Want your own copy of the 2023 MMD Summer Reading Guide? There are three ways to get the full 2023 MMD Summer Reading Guide and included Unboxing access: Join our MMD Book Club community​ Support our What Should I Read Next Patreon​ ​Purchase the Guide and Unboxing access a la carte. Not sure which option is right for you? This page has a side-by-side comparison. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest loves to travel, and since she hasn't been doing quite as much of that in recent years, she's relied on books to take her to a wide range of destinations. Laurel Korwin is a wife, toddler mom, and software engineer who lives in San Francisco, and she's found her work in code overlaps nicely with her love of reading. While she reads a range of genres, Laurel has a particular affection for a certain kind of story that lets her travel to otherwise unaccessible times and places. Anne and Laurel have a great conversation about how Laurel came to identify this reading niche and what it's meant for her reading life. Laurel shares some of her favorite "impossible" destinations, while Anne recommends a handful of titles to take Laurel on new journeys this summer. See the full list of books mentioned today over at our show notes page, at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/379. Summer Reading Guide news! What you need to know about the 2023 Summer Reading Guide, coming May 18th, the blog post I mention in today's episode. You can also learn more about how to get the guide, what's happening with Unboxing, and preorder your copy at https://members.modernmrsdarcy.com/2023-unboxing/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest Michelle Acierno Loftus loves her work as a veterinary radiologist, but the demanding training that her career required meant that her reading life took a hit. These days, Michelle's found her way back to reading by embracing a genre she's always loved: Young Adult literature. These days Michelle lives in Seattle with her husband and young son, and she credits her YA book club for helping her keep reading on her radar during a busy season in her life. Even better, the combination of a book club focused on a genre she's always loved and a community of similarly inspired readers has helped her feel more fully like the reader she wants to be. Today Anne and Michelle are talking about rekindling her love of reading and the role YA books have played in Michelle's life. Anne suggests some titles that will continue to infuse this delight into Michelle's reading experience.  Find the full list of titles mentioned today at our show notes page, whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/378. Get yourself ready for spring with totes and tees that rep your love of reading at modernmrsdarcy.com/store. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest loves collecting books she finds at library sales or used bookstores, and she's ended up with a shelf full of titles that have caught her eye over the years. But Kelsey Gruber has a problem: when she sees an unread title still sitting on her shelf after a few months or more, often, the magic is gone and she's forgotten why it appealed to her in the first place. She needs Anne's help to figure out which of titles in her collection she shouldn't read next! Kelsey is an aspiring paralegal and joins Anne today from Virginia, where she's ready to make some tricky decisions about her unread collection. Anne's here to help Kelsey better understand her reading tastes right now, and identify some titles from her shelves that might reignite that reading spark. See the full list of titles mentioned today, and leave your suggestions for Kelsey, over at our show notes page: whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/377. The 2023 Summer Reading Guide is almost here. Join us in Patreon to get the Guide, an invite to our live Unboxing event, and a summer full of great bonus episodes like One Great Book, Dear Book Therapist and Mini-Matchmaking. Learn more at patreon.com/whatshouldireadnext. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you loved Episode 369: State of the bookstore, you're in luck: we're back today with three more fabulous conversations with independent booksellers across the country. Today Anne is joined to talk all things books and reading with Andrea Griffith, owner of Browsers Bookshop in Olympia, Washington; owner Alison Frenzel and book buyer Elizabeth Barnhill of the whimsical Fabled Bookshop in Waco, Texas; and Roxanne Coady, owner of RJ Julia Booksellers in Madison, Connecticut. You might recognize these names from their previous conversations with Anne here on the show, or from your own visits to their delightful shops. Listen in today as Anne and her guests talk about what’s been happening in their stores since we last spoke, the books they can’t stop recommending, and the ways they are building bookish communities, one reader at a time. See the full list of titles discussed today and see how you can connect with each of the bookstores featured in today's episode over at our show notes page, whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/376. Also on our website, last week we shared all the details for our 2023 Summer Reading Guide, coming May 18th! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There’s something particularly enticing about a short book that delivers an incredible reading experience. Today's guest Vanessa A. Bee joins Anne to talk about short books that tell great stories in small packages. Vanessa is an author, mother, wife, and attorney who lives in Washington, DC. She recently released a memoir called Home Bound: An Uprooted Daughter's Reflections on Belonging about her experience as an adoptee who was born in Cameroon, and raised by a Black mother and a white father in France, England, and then the United States.  Vanessa has a lot of competing demands for her time and energy, so while she does enjoy an occasional long read, she typically looks for shorter, economically written books to help her make the most of her reading time. During their conversation today, Anne recommends shorter reads that deliver the sweeping, beautiful reading experience Vanessa loves best. Find the full list of titles discussed today, as well as links to Vanessa's website, on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alberta-based Sarah Bramley knows what she likes when it comes to fiction, but lately she's been more and more intrigued by the nonfiction side of the bookstore. Sarah knows there's a ton of good stuff out there she'll enjoy, but she's not sure of her reading identity beyond the fiction she knows and loves. This makes it hard to know how to find the nonfiction she'll find just as unputdownable as her favorite fiction titles. Sarah's here to get Anne's help, because Sarah wants to be purposeful about expanding her reading horizons. She'd love some personalized advice to help her find that gripping, pageturner-y nonfiction she craves. Today, Anne and Sarah set out to unearth promising starting points for her nonfiction journey and make exploring a new reading identity feel much less daunting. See the full list of titles mentioned in today's show at our show notes page, whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/374. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Two sisters with a lifelong love of reading join Anne to talk about the many ways books have framed their lives. Anne first met Laura Gerald-Simms and Ramona Gavin in 2019 at an event at Bookmarks NC, where their passion for reading led them to make a true bookish connection. Since then, they've stayed in touch, and Anne's excited to welcome them to the show in this long-awaited conversation. Laura and Ramona share their favorite recent reads and talk about the ways books and reading have played crucial roles in their lives, while bringing them joy in the midst of busy seasons. Anne shares some recommendations for undiscovered titles she thinks they'll both love. See that full list of books and more at our show notes: whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/373. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest Jeff Speck is a familiar name around here! Anne's referred to his book Walkable City in a bunch of past podcast episodes, because it's a great example of how books can invite us to see and understand the world around us in a whole new way.  We're excited to have Jeff on the show today to share more about his professional and writing experience, how his book came to be chosen for the 10th anniversary treatment, and to compile a reading list of fascinating nonfiction and fiction that opens up the world for readers. Connect with Jeff at his website, www.jeffspeck.com, and find the full list of titles mentioned today at our show notes page, whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/372. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Every week, Anne does a little literary matchmaking with one guest, but today we're flipping the mic and helping Anne discover some books she just might love reading next. The last time we asked our listeners what Anne should read next was way back in 2017, so it's definitely time for another round of crowd-sourced reading recommendations. If you tuned into Episode 367 a few weeks ago, you heard Anne share about her reading life lately, including three books she's loved and one that didn’t work for her, before asking for your recommendations. So many of you responded, and our team’s had a blast pouring through your suggestions.  Today, Anne is joined by Media Production Specialist Holly Wielkoszewski to hear your recommendations, talk about the books you all loved, and decide what she wants to read next. Check out the full list of titles recommended today at our shownotes page, whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/371, and leave your suggestions for Anne there, too! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With so many books to choose from, committing to re-reading books you've already enjoyed can feel like a particular challenge. Today's guest, Rosalynn Tyo, deeply appreciates re-reading and wants to do more of it, but regularly finds herself distracted by new releases or unread titles. She's excited to get Anne's help with this bookish conundrum. Rosalynn loves cultivating deep and long-term relationships with the books she loves, but with so many new titles showing up at her local library and bookstore, she's looking for techniques to help her resist the siren song of the unread pile, and identify the much-loved titles that would be deeply gratifying to revisit. Along with tackling Rosalynn's re-reading list today, she and Anne also chat about Rosalynn's recent intergenerational book pilgrimage to Prince Edward Island, the land of Anne of Green Gables. If you've ever been inspired to visit this bookish destination, you're in for a treat. Readers should know that in this episode we touch on the death of a spouse and unexpected widowhood. If that sounds like it would be upsetting for you to listen to right now, you may want to save this episode for the future. You'll find the full list of titles discussed today at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/370. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Here at WSIRN HQ, we love a great independent bookstore, and it's always especially fun when an indie bookseller joins Anne to talk books and bookstore business. Today, the book party is bigger than ever: Anne is chatting with three booksellers all about what's happening in the bookstore world lately. Joining Anne today are Holland Saltsman, owner of the The Novel Neighbor in St Louis, Missouri; Abbigail Glen, creator of Shelves, an online and pop-up bookstore based in Charlotte, North Carolina; and Annie B Jones of The Bookshelf in Thomasville, Georgia. If these names sound familiar, that's because you've heard from each of them on the podcast before. Today, they're back to talk with Anne about what’s been happening in their bookshops since we last spoke. Plus, we'll talk about the titles they're reading, loving, and sharing with their customers these days. Find the full list of titles mentioned today at our show notes page, whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/369. Previous episodes with these booksellers: Episode 210: Book gifts are the BEST gifts with Holland Saltsman Episode 328: Reading is a lifestyle with Abbigail Glen Episode 132: The books we can’t wait to read this summer with Annie Jones Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What's a reader to do with a stack of book recommendations that have left her feeling dissatisfied? Today Anne is talking with Mollie Hedgecock (she/her) and sharing some ideas for how Mollie can discern which recommendations are right for her. Like many readers, most of Mollie's recommendations come from social media and her friends, but she's realized her tastes just don't align with a lot of these choices. The problem is, Mollie's not sure what she should be looking for, so Anne's here to help Mollie identify her reading personality and decide whether the books her friends suggest are likely to be titles she'll love, too. See the full list of titles discussed in today's episode and leave your suggestions for Mollie over at our show notes page, whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/368. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Anne is in conversation with Keren Form, a self-professed nerd, dedicated board gamer and a fan of fast-moving stories with big themes. This episode originally aired back in 2019 as Episode 193, Rolling the dice on your next read, and was selected by our Patreon community as a guest favorite to bring back this week. Plus, Anne is sharing an update on what Keren did read next and how her reading (and gaming) life is going these days. While Keren has a particular love for sci-fi and fantasy, our conversation today is full of entry points for readers of all genres. We talk about a bunch of titles that will appeal to fans of historical fiction, YA romance, crime drama, or any good story with high stakes. Today we're also asking for your help in choosing Anne's next read. Listen in to hear her share three books she's loved, one that hasn't worked for her, and what she's reading lately. Once you have a suggestion ready, give us a call at 502-627-0663 by February 24th to leave a voicemail telling us your name, what you think Anne should read, and why. See the full list of titles and games mentioned in today's episode over on our shownotes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/367. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When authors and readers come together, it's always a good time, and today's episode is no exception. Today, we're sharing our recent Modern Mrs Darcy Book Club conversation with Brendan Slocumb, who joined us in January to discuss his musical thriller (and our January 2023 book club pick), The Violin Conspiracy.  You might recognize Brendan from Episode 351, Book Club Favorites: LIVE from Bookmarks! as part of that excellent panel discussion with Tia Williams, Andrew Sean Greer, and TJ Klune. Today, Brendan is back to chat with Anne, our Modern Mrs. Darcy Book Club Community Manager, Ginger Horton, and our Book Club co-host, Shannan Malone. Our conversation today covers a whole range of topics, from music to comic books, and of course we ask about Brendan's recent reads and his future novels. Whether or not you've read (or want to read) The Violin Conspiracy, you'll love listening in to our (spoiler-free!) conversation today.  Find the list of titles and other resources mentioned today in our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/366. If our conversation with Brendan today has you thinking more, please, we'd love to have you join us for ALL our author chats over in the Modern Mrs Darcy Book Club, our gathering spot for readers of all ages, and home to classes, conversation, and community. Come on over and say hello. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest has a superpower we've never heard before: she can smell a book and know whether it was published in the U.S. or the U.K.! London-based Claire Handscombe (she/her) spent a decade in Washington DC as a bookseller, a chapter she remembers fondly. These days, she's as much a book-lover as ever, but she's struggling with a common challenge: overcoming a short attention span and endless distractions. How can Claire get back to reading the literary fiction she loves? Anne has ideas for Claire, and shares some laugh-out-loud titles that might be perfect for reading right now, as well as comfortable reads that will keep Claire fascinated all the way to the end. Find the full list of titles mentioned today on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/365-episode, and connect with Claire on Instagram and Twitter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With so many books to choose from, it's easy to miss out on some stellar titles. Today, Anne is joined by Andrew Limbong (he/him) to talk about some of the best books you may have missed in 2022. When he's not reading, Andrew's a reporter for NPR's Culture Desk and host of their Book of the Day podcast, so he's no stranger to book-talk. Join Andrew and Anne as they reflect on some of their favorite recent under-the-radar titles, and preview some of the great reads 2023 has in store. See the full list of titles mentioned today at our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/364 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What do you do when you're used to reading dozens of books a year, but lately you've barely managed a handful of titles each year? Texas-based pilot and business owner Jada Graff (she/her) is here to get Anne's help in answering that question today, because her reading life has gotten way off course. In 2018 Jada stopped teaching English and donated all of her books. Since then, she's been trying to thoughtfully rebuild her library, but she's struggling to find books that will hold her interest once she gets home from the bookstore. Anne's here to give Jada some ideas to rebuild her book stamina and help find her next favorite reads from among the options already on her home shelves. See the full list of titles discussed today at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/363. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Knox McCoy and Jamie Golden from The Popcast join Anne to celebrate the 7th anniversary of What Should I Read Next! Since Anne started What Should I Read Next back in 2016, she's spoken to so many book lovers, from well-known authors to readers just like you. Today we'll look back at how it all began and how we got to where we are, recalling the roles Knox and Jamie played in helping launch the podcast, and sharing some stories you may not have heard before. Along the way, of course, we'll talk about the books we're loving (and hating) lately.  See the full list of titles discussed today over at our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/362. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Choosing the best books of a year is always a fun challenge, so today we're flipping the focus and shining a light on Anne's reading life in 2022. In today’s episode, Anne's talking about a selection of the books she loved most in 2022, as well as the themes that showed up most often in her reading life over the past year. Join us as Will (Executive Producer of WSIRN and Anne's husband) takes the host's chair and invites Anne to take a deep dive into the titles that really stood out in 2022, and why she loved them. See that full list of titles and other links mentioned today at our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/361. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When your family has a fierce annual reading competition, it's more important than ever to choose your books wisely! Today's guest, Courtney Haggerty, is here to talk about how her family reads together, and to get a jump-start on her 2023 to-be-read list. Courtney is a sports aficionado, Disney World superfan, and 3rd grade teacher in Louisville, Kentucky, and she always has multiple books in progress. She often reaches for thrillers and mysteries, but in 2023 she'd love to broader her reading selections to include more nonfiction, historical fiction, and family dramas. Anne will give her some recommendations to build a base for the year to come, and share some titles Courtney will enjoy while she moves up the reading contest leaderboard. See the full list of titles discussed today at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/360. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A new reading year is right around the corner, and today's episode is full of perspective to help you plan for your best reading year yet. Laura Vanderkam is a WSIRN alum and time management and productivity expert whose newest book, Tranquility by Tuesday: 9 Ways to Calm the Chaos and Make Time for What Matters was recently released. She's joining Anne today to talk about tackling reading projects big and small. Today's conversation explores ways to bring the joy and ease into our reading lives, while still enjoying a meaningful reading experience. Laura and Anne talk about how we choose the titles we read and practical ways to make our reading goals happen as we enter a new reading year. Check out the full list of titles discussed today over at our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/359, where we've also included links to Laura's website and other ways you can connect with her. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, we know many of you love to find the perfect books for each season, whether that's a summer beach read or a spooky fall novel. Today's guest is on the hunt for her winter reading vibe, which has eluded her so far, and Anne is here to help. Toronto-based Lara Bulger is a film aficionado and a dedicated reader, and particularly loves the sweet spot where these two passions overlap. Anne and Lara talk about book-to-film adaptations and how Lara's found her reading vibe for the rest of the year. Then, Anne helps Lara find solutions to some of her reading puzzles while making a plan for a great winter reading season. See the full list of titles discussed today at our show notes page, at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/358. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anne is talking with beloved author Louise Penny in today's episode! Their conversation explores Penny's Inspector Gamache mystery series, the world of Three Pines, the upcoming television adaptation, and so much more. We know so many of you are avid Penny fans, and we are delighted to share today's chat. The 18th installment in Penny's Gamache series, A World of Curiosities, is out today, so it's the perfect time to take a look at how she created Three Pines in the first place, and what goes into writing each installment in this beloved series. We hope Anne and Louise's conversation today makes you feel like you're nestled in a bistro spending time with dear friends. Be sure to visit our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/357 for a list of the titles mentioned today, as well as that famous lemon-meringue recipe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest loves a good mystery, but could do without the murder, and Anne is here to help! Gina House loves cozy, comforting books that are often set in whimsical places. She's not looking for suffering or struggle between the covers of her chosen reads, and she's excited to get Anne's suggestions for titles she hasn't discovered yet in her favorite genre. If you're also on the hunt for cozy reads this season, Anne's recommendations to Gina will fill up your to-be-read list with comfort reads that pair perfectly with a soft blanket and a warm beverage. Leave your own recommendations for Gina and see the full list of titles discussed today at our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/356. This episode was recorded and aired in December 2020 as WSIRN Ep 261: Huggable comfort reads for a cozy reading season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you've got a book-lover on your holiday shopping list, get ready for an episode full of recommendations you can rely on. Every year, Anne and a special guest tackle listener requests for book recommendations, and it's always an episode that's guaranteed to add some fresh titles to your to-be-read list and your gift list. This year, Anne's talking with TWO other bookish professionals: Adah Fitzgerald and Andrea Jasmin of Main Street Books in Davidson, North Carolina. Anne's loved Main Street Books since her first visit back in 2017. She always walks away with a great pick or two from Adah and Andrea, so she was thrilled to talk with them today to answer a whole bunch of the recommendation requests you submitted this season. While our recommendations today reply to specific requests, the titles recommended are sure to please a wide range of readers that share similar tastes and interests. Be sure to visit our show notes pages at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/355, too, to see the full list of titles mentioned, leave your own ideas in the comments, and see suggestions from fellow listeners. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When a devoted reader attends her very first literary festival, bookish delight is on the menu! Today Anne is in conversation with Christina McCormick. Christina reached out to us here at What Should I Read Next a few weeks before she planned to attend the Bookmarks Festival of Books & Authors, because she wanted some encouragement and guidance on what to expect as a book festival novice. Readers, we know Christina's not the only one to wonder about the art and etiquette of literary festivals, so we couldn't wait to have her on the show to share her experience. We hope Anne and Christina's conversation today will encourage you to find a local book festival you can enjoy. Of course, today's episode also features some recommendations for Christina's next read, which you can see over at our show notes pages: whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/354. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A registered nurse on the night shift is looking for ways to battle burnout and what it's done to her reading life, and Anne is here to help. We know so many of you have been impacted by the stress of the past few years, and Lexie Hayes is no exception. The last few years of working in healthcare have make it more crucial than ever for her to focus on rest and recovery outside of work, and she's not left with much time to enjoy one of her favorite hobbies: reading! Anne and Lexie are talking about burnout today and exploring some techniques Lexie can apply to make it feel easier to pick her next read, and then actually enjoy the reading experience the way she used to. And, Anne recommends some titles (on print and audio) that she thinks Lexie will love reading right now. Find the full list of titles Anne and Lexie discussed today at our show notes page, whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/353. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Finding the perfect titles for young readers can be tricky, so today we're answering your questions and suggesting books (and bookish gifts) for the kids and teens in your lives! Every year we ask our audience to write in with their requests for bookish gift recommendations, and Anne partners with another literary professional to share suggestions to help YOU fulfill the wish lists of your favorite readers. To take on today's requests for book recommendations for kids and teens, Anne is joined by Sarah Mackenzie, the creator of Read Aloud Revival. Sarah's website and podcast support and inspire homeschooling families while helping parents raise kids who love to read. We were overwhelmed with so many amazing requests, and we answer a whole bunch today. Our recommendations are sure to work for all our listeners, even if you didn't submit a question. We hope today's episode helps you to get inspiring books into the hands of the kids you love. And if you're looking for recommendations for the adult readers in your life, rest assured we'll be back in a few weeks for another literary gifting extravaganza. We've included the full list of all the books recommended today at our show notes page, which you'll find at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/352. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Four dynamic authors gathered to speak on a Book Club Favorites panel last month at the Bookmarks Festival of Books & Authors—and Anne was the moderator! Their conversation went in wildly delightful directions, and we're so excited to share it with all of you today. Anne was thrilled when Festival chair Beth Buss (whose name you might recognize from Episode 257: Let's build your holiday booklist) asked her to moderate the Festival panel focused on “Book Club Favorites", featuring authors TJ Klune, Andrew Sean Greer, Brendan Slocumb, and Tia Williams. During the unexpected and entertaining LIVE conversation, these authors shared a taste of what their books are like, told some stories from the writing life, and recommended a few books they think would make great Book Club reads. We're so happy we're able to share this conversation with all of you today: thanks to the Bookmarks NC Festival of Books & Authors, the authors and publishers who supported us sharing this live replay with all of you, and the festival staff and devoted volunteers for making all of this possible. We'd love to hear which of the books mentioned today is next on your reading list. Let us know over in the show notes at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/351! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

An octogenarian world traveler and her book-loving daughter join Anne to discuss how reading continues to play a vital role in their relationship. Barbara Costner grew up in World War Two London before traveling and working around the world as an adult. Along with gardening, reading's always been one of her passions, and she made sure to cultivate this love in her daughter Adrienne Hudson, too. These days, Adrienne's become her mother's main source of books, recommending titles she thinks her mom will enjoy and then shipping them cross country. Today, Anne recommends titles featuring the compelling stories and epic tales Barbara loves most, while helping Adrienne gently introduce her mother to some fresh settings and genres. See the full list of titles mentioned today over at our show notes at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/350. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As a young reader, today's guest discovered the power of books to make her feel less alone, and she's happy to be back to reading regularly after making some lifestyle changes in the past few years! San Francisco-based Rachel Seidman joins Anne on today's episode to talk about how reading has changed her life, and why she's such an advocate for books that thoughtfully tackle disability. Rachel reads a variety of books but often comes back to titles that make her think, or speak to her intersectional identity as a deaf woman with Colombian and Jewish heritage. In today's conversation, Anne and Rachel talk about making time for reading and delightful library programs. Anne leaves Rachel with some titles that will help her branch out from her go-to genres and expand her reading horizons. See the full list of the titles discussed today over at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/349. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest has been suffering through a book slump over the past few years, and Anne's here to help them reconnect with their love of reading. Aimz Rushton (they/them) is a senior lecturer in the United Kingdom, where they focus on North American fiction and literature. Aimz enjoys reading literary fiction inside and outside of the classroom, but their reading's taken a hit lately and they've found it easy to get derailed from what they've always loved. While Aimz has found a few techniques that are starting to help, they're looking for Anne's guidance to get fully back on track and trust their book taste again. Anne has some ideas to share and some titles to recommend to help Aimz rediscover the reading experience they've been missing. See the full list of titles discussed today on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/348 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest is feeling stuck between two chapters of her reading life, and she needs a guide! 13 year old Noa Hewlett knows what she's looking for in a story, but she's finding it a challenge to identify the right books for her reading taste in the more grown-up sections of the bookstore. Anne is here to share some strategies Noa can use to discover new authors, genres, and titles that will align with what she already knows she enjoys. Whether you remember being in Noa's shoes, you're in the midst of a reading transition yourself, or you want to support the kids and young readers in your life, today's conversation will help any reader navigate a period of literary change. Anne and Noa talk about a lot of titles and authors today, and you can find that full list (and leave your own recommendations for Noa) on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/347. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest has a lengthy to-be-read list, and she's not sad about it! Saadia Shafati Shamsie balances her work as a travel company owner, Department of Defense employee, and Indian Dance teacher with her passion for reading, and she's always got a book (or three) on her nightstand. But even when reading multiple books at a time, her collection of unread titles is considerable—and growing! And lately, many of her picks have been good, but not great. Saadia really wants to read books she loves, and Anne is here to help. Anne and Saadia explore what Saadia wants more of in her reading life right now, before diving into Saadia's current library of unread books. Anne recommends some hidden gems on Saadia's shelves that might just be her next 5-star reads. See the full list of titles discussed today and leave your own recommendations for Saadia over on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/346. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, today Anne is joined in bookish conversation by reading advocate, author, and creator of @hereweeread Charnaie Gordon. Charnaie's passion is encouraging young readers and supporting families in diversifying their bookshelves, which she achieves through her blog, non-profit, and internet platforms, as well as books like her latest release, A Planet Like Ours. In today's episode, Charnaie and Anne talk about how Charnaie first became a reader and the way books impacted her childhood, before digging into a whole range of titles they've each loved to read and recommend. After talking about some of their favorites for readers of all ages, Anne also suggests a few novels that Charnaie may enjoy adding to her own reading list. Find the full list of the titles we talked about today over at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/345, where you'll also find links to Charnaie's website and social media accounts. Be sure to let us know in the comments which of today's titles you're most excited to read next! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, we're back with the 2022 edition of our team's favorite summer reads! This tradition started with a Patreon bonus episode back in 2020, and it's continued since then right here on our podcast feed. As a team of devout readers, in between creating this podcast and the other Modern Mrs Darcy work we do each week, we do a lot (and we mean a LOT) of talking about books. Today, we're sharing some of those conversations with you. We've gathered into three different groups to talk about what summer reading means to us, what we've loved so far this season, and what we're looking forward to reading next. Our team's reading tastes are diverse, and we hope you'll hear us talk about a title that catches your interest, too. We mention a lot of titles today, and we've collected the full list along with handy links over at our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/344. Be sure to let us know in the comments if you've read and loved any of the books our team shares today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While we love sharing book recommendations each week, we also take great pleasure in helping our guests overcome whatever reading-related struggle they're facing at the moment. Today, Anne's talking to a guest who is torn between reading for pleasure and reading the books they feel they should be reading … even if they don’t enjoy the experience.  Academic librarian Lorelei Rutledge is clear on what's working in their reading life, and they regularly turn to the specific genre that always brings them joy and delight. But Lorelei also feels a pressure to read books that are "serious" or "important", or on "everyone's" shelf right now. They've tried some of the books they'd define this way, but the reading experience usually leaves them less than satisfied. In today's conversation, Anne and Lorelei talk about what these words actually mean and how they might help guide Lorelei's reading life in the future, and Anne encourages Lorelei to overcome their book shame once and for all. See all of the titles we discussed today, and leave your own suggestions for Lorelei, at our show notes page. That's at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/343. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, today's guest shares a common reader struggle: finding the time to read! Today, Mattie James—a successful business owner and new author, releasing her first book Everyday Magic later this month—joins Anne to talk about her love of reading nonfiction. But as a busy professional, Mattie often finds it hard to make the time to read. She's looking for solutions to make the most of her time reading, even if it's just for a few minutes. Mattie grew up with a love of reading nurtured by her father, and these days she turns to books to inspire and guide her. She appreciates nonfiction that invites her reconsider her assumptions and look at things from a different perspective. When she finds a gem of a read, she'll waste no time in enthusiastically recommending it to her online community.   Today, Anne and Mattie talk about strategies to work more reading into a busy life, and Anne recommends nonfiction titles that will have a positive impact in Mattie's life and work. Leave your own recommendations for Mattie and see the full list of books mentioned on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/342. Anne's new reading journal for kids My Reading Adventures is now available wherever you get your books–and just in time to make it a fun back-to-school treat for the young reader in your life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Around here, we love celebrating reading memories and creating new ones, and today's show does just that! Anne's newest book journal for young readers, ​My Reading Adventures​, is out today—and to celebrate the power of reading in young lives, we asked our listeners to share some of ​their​ favorite childhood reading memories. Anne's here, too, of course, with some moments that stand out in her reading memory. Plus, in today's episode we embark on a journey between the pages of My Reading Adventures, sharing the fun features that make it a perfect reading companion for 8-12 year old readers, or anyone young at heart. Tell us your favorite childhood reading memories by leaving a comment over on our show notes page, at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/341. Get your copy of My Reading Adventures from any of these online retailers or from your local book seller: Amazon Barnes & Noble Bookshop Books-A-Million Christianbook Book Depository Carmichael’s Bookstore Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Anne is chatting with author, actress, and audiobook narrator Julia Whelan. You may know Julia from her novel My Oxford Year, or her new book releasing August 2nd, Thank You For Listening, and many readers are also familiar with Julia's voice from her many audiobook narrations. Anne and Julia chat about the art and process of creating the audiobooks so many readers love, and reflect on the joys and challenges of the professional reading life, before sharing a long list of titles they've loved. Whether you're already a fan of Julia's or you're just discovering her today, you'll walk away with some recommendations of books that especially shine on audio, and some new insight into this creative side of the book industry. You can find Julia on Twitter, and be sure to check out our show notes page for links to the titles we discussed today. Leave us a comment on that post to share your favorite audiobook! That's at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/340. My Reading Adventures, Anne's new book journal for young readers, comes out next Tuesday, August 2nd! It takes the thoughtful features, useful tools, and inspiring book nerdery from her adult journal, My Reading Life, and presents it in a fun and approachable format that’s perfect for your eight to 12-year-old reader. When you order your copy before August 2nd, you’ll get an assortment of bonuses as a thank you: an exclusive digital reading list featuring my top picks for kids and adorable and useful custom stickers sent directly to your mailbox. Visit modernmrsdarcy.com/kidsjournal to find links to buy your copy from your favorite bookseller and claim your bonuses once you’ve ordered. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Adrien Kordas has always identified as a reader, and in the past few years she's been excited about completing grad school so she could devote more time to reading for fun. But now that she actually has the time to read at whim, she's been surprised to find that the kind of titles she's loved in the past aren't working as well for her, and she's not sure what to do about it. In today's conversation, Anne and Adrien talk about recapturing the childhood magic of reading and what to do when your reading tastes evolve. Anne makes some recommendations to welcome Adrien into this new stage of her reading life. If you have a recommendation for Adrien, let us know in the comments over at our show notes page, where you'll also find the link to Adrien's instagram account and a full list of the titles we discussed today. That's at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/339. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, we're so excited to share today's collaboration with you. Anne is joined on the show today by Craig Getting and Andrew Cunningham, hosts of the show Overdue–a podcast about the books you’ve been meaning to read. On their podcast, Craig and Andrew explore the backlist titles many readers feel like they “should” have read by now, but today, Anne, Craig, and Andrew talk about a wide range of bookish topics, from the perks of having a built-in reading buddy, to the titles they would never have read if not for the show and ended up LOVING. They also share how much their reading lives have improved through reading books they didn't love. Anne wraps up the conversation by sharing a few titles Craig and Andrew will want to add to their personal reading lists. See the full list of titles mentioned during today's show on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/338, and connect with Craig and Andrew at their website, on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our guest today, Chicago-area reader Rebecca Freeman, struggles with a reading challenge we hear about often from guests and community members: how to balance being a mood reader with maintaining any kind of to-be-read list. In Rebecca's reading life, she's found the library a big help: browsing what's available to check out at any given time lets her bring some serendipity into selecting her next read. But while she shies away from anything that feels like a prescriptive list, she'd like to have some guidance to help her feel satisfied that she'll enjoy her selections. And, she's eager for tips to help her explore reading series without feeling any pressure. Anne and Rebecca discuss techniques that could give Rebecca the support she's looking for without feeling constricting, and Anne recommends a few titles that Rebecca can keep an eye out for next time she's browsing her library shelves. See the full list of titles discussed on today's show at our show notes page. That's at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/337. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, June is audiobook month, and in today's conversation, Anne talks with a dedicated audiophile who wants to discover the formula for a great audio reading experience! Jackie Branz works as a gardener and florist on a private estate, and while she's hard at work keeping the plants happy and thriving, she also gets to enjoy another of her great loves: reading. Jackie enjoys getting pulled into a great audiobook while she's working in the garden, but sometimes she struggles to find the right fit. Anne & Jackie talk about creating a formula to help guide Jackie's audiobook selections, before discussing some specific titles that will give Jackie that immersive experience she's seeking. Along the way, they touch on finding the right titles to read on audio vs print, reading around the world, and the library’s book bingo, which plays a significant factor in Jackie’s reading selections in this season. Find the full list of titles discussed today over on our shownotes page, at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/336. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, our guest today is on the hunt for overlooked titles and compelling characters that feel like friends. Andrea Medina lives in Mexico, where she reads in both Spanish and English to expand the range of options on her shelf. Since falling in love with the power of a gripping story as a teen, Andrea's sought out complex tales that speak to real life, and books that she'll keep thinking about after turning the final page. Today, Anne and Andrea talk about rediscovering what you really love about reading, and Anne points Andrea to some books that offer the authentic scenarios and engaging writing she loves so much. Find the full list of titles discussed today over at our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/335, and leave a comment with your suggestions for Andrea. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest knows what he likes on the nonfiction shelf, but he's feeling lost when it comes to finding his next fiction read, and Anne is here to help. Wes Martin's developed a love of nonfiction in both his professional role as an industrial and organizational psychologist, and in his personal life. But recently, Wes has found himself turning more to fiction for his reading enjoyment, and he's not very confident about navigating this section of the bookstore. This is especially frustrating because he's recently started to really enjoy fiction and he wants more of this reading experience! Anne and Wes talk about where he's struggled in selecting his next fiction title, and explore the themes and elements that make a fictional read feel satisfying. Anne also suggests structures and systems Wes can apply to help build readerly resilience and reach with confidence for his next pick from the fiction shelf. Leave your own recommendations for Wes and see the full list of titles we discussed today over at our show notes page, at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/334. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, a good book makes a perfect vacation companion, and today we're pairing a cross-section of titles with three fabulous summery destinations! Joining Anne on the show today is Lynette Calleros, a travel agent who wants to provide her customers with curated, destination-inspired reading lists. She's here for Anne's help in matching three of her commonly booked destinations with “book flights”—purposeful, thematic literary pairings—she can suggest to her travelers.  Lynette and Anne also chat about Lynette's own reading tastes, the unique challenge of packing books for a vacation, and the specific type of travel narrative she NEVER wants to recommend to her clients! Whether you’re traveling this summer or staying close to home, this episode will equip you for adventure and fuel your wanderlust with recommendations that span genres and continents. Leave your own recommendations for Lynette and see the full list of titles shared today over at our show notes page, at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/333. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, today we're thrilled to welcome Emily Henry to the show! You may recognize her from the 2021 Summer Reading Guide, where we featured her book People We Meet on Vacation, or our Modern Mrs Darcy book club, where she joined us in a delightful conversation. Today, Emily and Anne talk about the titles they reach for when the temperatures rise and the pool (or beach) beckon, and what they mean when they describe a book as a "beach read". They'll also dive into conversation about her brand-new release Book Lovers, the appeal of books set in the world of publishing, and Nora Ephron. To wrap up, Anne and Emily each share some of their favorite beach reads, leaving you with a nice selection of titles to explore this season, and a permission slip to read exactly what you want this summer. Connect with Emily on her website, Instagram, and Twitter, and find her newest title Book Lovers wherever you love to buy books! You can find all of the titles we discussed today over on our show notes page. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, it's almost summer reading season (our 2022 Summer Reading Guide releases next week!), and today's conversation is just filled with summer reading energy. It's also a What Should I Read Next first, as we have four readers talking books and reading in today's show. Dive into summer reading today with Anne, her husband Will, and their reading buddies Melissa Joulwan and Dave Humphreys. You may recognize Mel and Dave from when they joined Anne in WSIRN Episode 219: Required reading revisited, or from their podcast, Strong Sense of Place, our favorite literary tourism podcast. With summer reading season just ahead of us, today's conversation is full of talk about what makes a book a summer read, why some stories simply couldn't be set any other time of year, and of course, which books are on our eternal summer shelves. You'll walk away eager to find a sunny space to sit and crack open your next read.  See the full list of titles we discussed today over at our show notes page, whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/331. And, explore Mel and Dave's podcast at their website, on Instagram, and on Facebook. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, today's guest came later in life to a career that she now loves, and one of her favorite parts of the job? Nurturing budding readers! As a third and fourth-grade teacher, Katrina Fleming has a plan for getting her kids hooked on reading, but lately she’s felt like her plan for her own reading life has been letting her down. Katrina knows what she likes to read, but she's found it hard to feel truly drawn into the books she's picked up lately, and she's ready for some recommendations so she can dive into a book that will stick. Anne and Katrina talk about the mysteries and biographies that Katrina loves, and Anne suggests some titles that take Katrina down some of intriguing paths she loves most in her reading life. Their conversation will help you revisit some memories of how you first became a reader, and add some fascinating books about fascinating people to your reading list. Find Katrina at her website, as well as Instagram and Facebook, and see the full list of titles discussed today at our show notes page. That's at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/330. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our first Norwegian guest, Lisa Sølvberg is a lifelong reader who loves a complicated family saga. She also has a particular appreciation for the audiobooks that accompany her athletic pursuits, as you'll hear in today's conversation. Lisa and Anne talk about the power of book journaling and what Lisa's learned about her reading life as a result of adopting this habit. Then, they explore some of the books Lisa's loved and the type of reads she's looking for right now. Anne leaves Lisa with a list of intriguing, nuanced books that grapple with the big topics Lisa wants to explore in her reading life. And, because Anne's also a fan of a complicated family saga, she gives Lisa a few bonus recommendations that she's bound to enjoy. See all of the titles we discussed today and leave your own suggestions for Lisa at our show notes page, whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/329. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, if you've ever dreamed of opening a bookstore, this episode is for you! Today, Anne's in conversation with Abbigail Glen, the owner of Shelves, an online and pop-up bookstore based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Abby discovered the power of reading at a young age, and decided to make her dream of being a bookstore owner a reality. In her conversation with Anne today, Abby shares how Shelves came to be, her work to create a reading community where reading is a lifestyle, and what she's loving in the book world right now. You'll also hear about how Abby selects the books she shares with her Shelves subscription readers, and three books she recommends to every reader. If you've read one of Abby's book picks, we'd love to hear about it—let us know in comments over on the show notes page, where we'll also include a full list of the titles we discussed today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest is both an avid leisure reader and a professional word nerd. Gary Robinaugh has always been fascinated with the role language plays in our lives. His career studying Aphasia—a language disorder caused by a specific type of brain damage—explores the relationship between thought, language, and communication, and he's equally fascinated by these themes outside of the office. Gary grew up in a reading home with a heavy helping of science fiction, a genre he still enjoys for its unique ability to ask “what if?", but he also loves reading outside of this genre. Today, he's looking for some titles that will help him explore new ideas and fresh perspectives. Anne gives Gary some recommendations that speak directly to what he's looking for, as well as some suggestions that might just surprise him. To see the full list of titles discussed today, or to leave your own suggestions for Gary, visit our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/327. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest is an author whose books are regularly discussed in our online community, and she's here to talk with Anne today about the practice of seeking inspiration, and the books she can't stop recommending to the people in her life—and, of course, to get some suggestions for what to read next! Shauna Niequist is the author of numerous books, including Present Over Perfect, Bread and Wine, and her brand-new release I Guess I Haven’t Learned That Yet. She's also a devoted reader, and while she finds herself reaching for everything from cookbooks to non-fiction, she's most excited about big, bold novels that have some staying power. Listen in to Anne and Shauna's conversation and the books Anne recommends that will remind Shauna why she fell in love with fiction in the first place. To see a full list of the titles discussed today, visit our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/326, where we also share links to Shauna's website and Instagram page. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, today’s guest is preparing for the arrival of her second child in a particularly bookish way—she's looking for some titles she can enjoy during upcoming midnight feedings and quiet moments with her newborn. Odeta Dyrmishi has loved to read since high school, and she's relied on books to carry her through other big changes in her life. Whether she's reading entertaining fiction or historical books that teach her something new, she knows that reading is something that always helps her feel like herself. In today's conversation, she's looking for some books that will engage her attention and bring a little more adventure into her reading life. Anne recommends the perfect titles to help Odeta expand her readerly horizons and prepare for this next chapter in her life. See the full list of the books discussed today, and let Odeta know what you think she should read next over at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/325. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, last week's guest told us about her grandmother signing her up for her first library card, and today's guest is a grandmother who is nurturing the next generation of readers! Joanne Booy spent most of her life living internationally in a wide range of locations, but one thing has remained constant in her life—her passion for reading! She's relied on books to be companions in isolated corners of the globe, and she's worked hard to make books accessible to others, too. So it's not surprising that when the Covid-19 lockdowns came to their town in Canada, Joanne took on a new book role in the lives of her four grandchildren: selecting library books to be delivered to their home each week! Joanne and Anne discuss the challenge of finding the right books for young readers, as well as what Joanne's reading life looks like right now, and what she's seeking. Plus, listen in as Anne and Joanne talk about the favorite author who also wrote the book Joanne hated, and hear Anne's suggestions for reading gems just waiting to be discovered. Find the full list of books mentioned in today's episode at our show notes page, whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/324, and leave a comment on that post to share what you think Joanne should read next! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, if you love a good mystery series, you'll definitely want to tune in for today's episode. Our guest today has been a reader since she was young, and as an adult she discovered her favorite genre: mysteries! Houston Luke especially loves mystery series featuring engaging main characters like Louise Penny's Gamache or Agatha Christie's Poirot. But now that she's mostly caught up on the backlist titles from her favorite mystery authors, she needs some new puzzles to solve. Houston is looking for a new multi-book mystery series featuring characters she’ll connect with and evocative settings that invite her into the story. Anne's recommendations today give Houston some new series she'll be excited to investigate. Do you have a mystery series to recommend to Houston? Find her on Instagram, and visit our shownotes page to see the full list of titles we discussed today and leave your comments and suggestions for Houston. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest is an oil and watercolor painter with a deep appreciation for the storytelling power of both art and writing. As a child, Gina Ariko Marioni discovered how language could help her better understand the world around her, and to this day, reading brings her joy. But lately, Gina's been feeling stuck in her reading life. While she's used to reading a wide range of stories from coming-of-age tales to complex, multigenerational epics, in the past year or so she's found herself either reading extremely serious and weighty non-fiction or breezy, escapist, easy-to-read novels. Today, Gina is asking Anne for some suggestions to broaden her reading palette. Listen in for recommendations for titles to fill in the gaps of Gina's reading life, and spark the feelings of surprise and delight she's seeking. Learn more about Gina's art, leave your suggestions for what she should read next, and find the full list of titles discussed today over on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/322. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest discovered the joy of reading as a child listening to audiobooks on 45s. As an adult, she still turns to audiobooks consistently, and especially loves listening to books in the car with her boys or tackling some self-help titles on her commute. Tiffany Uzor is regularly on the hunt for new reads that will draw her in immediately or transport her somewhere else. Tiffany describes herself as a serial starter—she’s up for beginning any book that sounds interesting, and as a mental health therapist, she’s especially drawn to stories that probe complex human relationships. As much as Tiffany loves audiobooks, listening on the go, especially during her commute, can make it tricky to keep track of what she loves in a reading experience in the moment. She’s eager for some ideas to address this challenge, and Anne is here to offer techniques that should help, while also suggesting some titles that speak to the types of stories and voices Tiffany wants more of in her reading life right now. Connect with Tiffany at her website, www.dfwtalktherapy.com, and find today's show notes with the full list of titles we discussed at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/321. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, today's guests were already linked through legal and family ties, and since discovering their mutual love of reading, they've become even closer. Father-in-law and daughter-in-law Verne and Gabby Wright hit it off from the start, but their friendship deepened when Gabby lent Verne a book from her personal library. It was the start of a beautiful reading relationship! Gabby and Verne have found that their reading interests intersect with contemplative, philosophical stories that make them consider things from a different perspective or plant a new idea, and they'd love some recommendations for new titles to tackle together. Anne recommends three matched pairs of books to inspire their next joint read. Connect with Gabby on her website, mommylikesbooks.com, and see all of the titles mentioned in today's episode at our show notes page. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When Erin Fagan sent in her guest submission describing herself as a “grumpy man whisperer” who turns to books to create connections, we just had to invite her onto the show. Erin works as an airline pilot and spends hours in the air with her colleagues. To quickly build relationships in a small space, she's found a perfect shortcut: talking about books! Luckily, Erin loves to read widely and can rely on her reading rolodex for almost any conversation. She's an avid audiobook reader, but today she'd love a recommendation for an old-fashioned paper book that she won't be able to put down. Erin and Anne chat about what's really on your pilot's airpods and the book Erin can't stop recommending, and Anne suggest some new titles to help Erin make connections on her next trip.  Connect with Erin on Instagram and see what she’s reading lately on Goodreads. To see the full list of titles we discussed today or to share your own recommendations for Erin, visit our shownotes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/319. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, our guest today is sharing a struggle that feels increasingly common: she's finding herself easily distracted when reading, and she's not happy about it! Hannah Gorrie has always loved reading and has a sweet spot for fast-paced doorstoppers that totally engross her attention. But lately, she's felt like she just can't get into reading as easily, or stay as engaged as she used to. Anne and Hannah talk about the type of reading experiences Hannah's loved in the past, then Anne gives Hannah some advice on practical ways she can rediscover her reading groove, and suggests some books that will captivate her attention despite the many distractions of modern life. Visit the podcast website for today's complete book list, and connect with Hannah over on her Goodreads account. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Anne's not the only one giving the recommendations: guest Shreyasi Desai, who also goes by Cece, passes on her own suggestions for our reading community. Cece grew up in India, where her parents fed her a regular reading diet of mysteries and mythologies. Today, Cece lives in the U.K. and is on the hunt for books featuring serious, angsty topics explored in lyrical and compelling ways. During their conversation today, Cece shares some of her favorite Indian mythologies and adaptations, while Anne recommends three books that fit Cece's desire for engaging, brave stories she won’t want to put down. To see what Cece reads next, follow her on Goodreads, or leave your own recommendations for Cece on our shownotes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/317. That's also where you'll find a full list of the titles discussed today. Content Warning: while it’s not the focus of the episode today, Anne's conversation with Cece touches on themes of domestic and sexual abuse. If you know that these themes may be difficult for you, please take care of yourself by listening with caution, or simply give this episode a pass and tune in next week.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Here at What Should I Read Next? and Modern Mrs Darcy HQ, our team of bibliophiles talks books all year long, and today our whole team is chiming in to share what they loved most in their 2021 reading life. Our team has a wide range of reading tastes, so our selections today are all over the literary map, but one thing holds true: each of these books made a major impact on a member of our team, and stood out from the thousands of pages we each read over the past year. Our conversation today debuted as a live event in our Modern Mrs Darcy Book Club community, but today's podcast episode contains some extras just for our listeners! Listen in, then let us know in the show notes: which of these reads might be the title you decide to read next? See the full list of titles we discussed today on the show notes page. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Over the past six years of talking books with our guests, we've heard about life-changing reading experiences, but today's guest has a unique twist on this story. When Nicole Fagan decided to give away almost every book she owned (not an easy decision for a lifelong bibliophile), she wasn't sure what to expect. But in the years since, Nicole became convinced that this drastic book purge was absolutely worth it, and in today's episode she'll tell us why. We'll also talk about Nicole's reading life now, digging into what makes a book work for her, the specific type of story she’s enjoying lately, and a genre she’s hoping to break into. Anne will add to Nicole's reading menu with some suggestions for titles that line up with her tastes and what she's hoping to bring into her reading experience this year. Have a suggestion for Nicole? Leave a comment at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/315, where you can also find the full list of titles we discussed today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We love reconnecting with previous guests to get an update on their reading life, and today's conversation with Tara Nichols is no exception! Since Tara's previous appearance on the show, in WSIRN Ep 168: A century of good books in a single year, we've been curious to know how her challenge worked out, and what she learned along the way. If you missed Ep 168, Tara shared her goal to read one book published each year between 1920 and 2019, and she and Anne talked about some options that might help her complete her century-long reading list. Tara's back today to share the results and chat about what's she's looking for in her reading life now! Join Anne and Tara in conversation about what surprised Tara about her challenge and how it's impacted her reading choices now that she's not looking for books tied to a specific time. As always, all the books mentioned today can be found in the show notes at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/314, and that's also where we'd love to hear what you think Tara should read next! To see more peeks into Tara's reading life, find her on Instagram. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With a fresh new year ahead of us and so much reading to look forward to, today's conversation brings back a listener favorite and sets the stage for a year of thoughtful reading experiences. Jim Mustich, who you may know as the author of 1000 Books to Read Before You Die, first joined us on the podcast back in January 2019 on Episode 165 (which shared a title with his book). That’s one of our most downloaded episodes, and if you missed it the first time around, it's worth a listen to hear him describe the process of choosing those thousand books. Join Jim and Anne in conversation about the challenge of choosing what to read when we’re faced with so many options and so little time. Many readers reach for the latest book getting buzz on social media or a celebrity book club, but they might be missing some incredible titles that require just a little bit more effort to discover. Today we'll share a lengthy list of titles that have proven their staying power across the years. We'll also pass on some ideas to help you reconnect with what you love most about reading, and feel more confident in picking up your next read. See the full list of titles we discussed today at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/313, and let us know whether you'll be adding any of the books we mentioned today to your 2022 reading list! You can also connect with Jim on his website, Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you have a favorite holiday reading tradition? We recently asked our WSIRN Patrons this question, and we loved one response so much, we had to share it with all of you. Kim Kortas lives in Minnesota, where she's enacted an annual holiday tradition of curating book boxes for each family member! It's a year-round project that brings an extra dose of holiday joy, and Kim and Anne talk about how it started, and how it's going, before pivoting to chat about Kim's reading life. Like so many listeners, Kim's grappling with a lengthy to-be-read list, and Anne helps her narrow down the list today with a spontaneous and fun approach to selecting what she thinks Kim should read next. See the full list of titles we discussed today at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/312, and let us know in the comments if you've got a suggestion for Kim! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When it comes to picking what to read next, many of us live by our to-be-read (TBR) list, but today's guest has a different approach! Danielle Callendar is a lifelong bookworm, a library devotee, and a mood reader who loves the serendipity of discovering the right book at the right time. She's rejected any kind of reading list, because to her, that would feel like a constraint. But as much as she loves selecting books that reflect her immediate reading mood, sometimes this makes it a challenge to figure out what to read next. Listen in to today's conversation about the joy of picking up a book at the exact moment you're ready for that story, domestic fiction that has you questioning what you really know about a person, and Danielle's search for diverse narrators in stories that don't focus primarily on race or ethnicity. Find the full list of recommendations for Danielle at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/311, and leave a comment to suggest what you think she should read next! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Between the WSIRN team and many of the guests we've had on this show, we definitely see a trend of readers who consider themselves introverts, and find the quiet act of reading a book the perfect complement to their personality. But what happens when a reader is other end of the energy spectrum? Paul Randall Adams has a reading dilemma that he associates with his self-described mega-extrovert energy, as well as his adult diagnosis of ADHD. He knows his outgoing personality served him well in his previous career as a middle-school teacher, but when it comes to his reading life, he can be easily distracted. Paul Randall loves pairing audio-books with his work as a soapmaker, and while he's generally satisfied with his reading life, he's noticed a major gap he wants to address. He's hesitant to pick up longer books and invest the time to read hundreds of pages when he's unsure of a positive outcome. Today, Paul Randall is looking for the confidence to select the right "big books" that will feel worth it to him, and we'll discuss some methods he can use to select longer books that will satisfy. See the full list of books we discussed today or follow along with a transcript on the show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/310. Connect with Paul Randall on Instagram, shop his soaps, or tune in to his podcast.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our guests on this show are united in a love of reading, but sometimes that joy can get lost as life, work, and other obligations take center stage. Today's guest is looking for some suggestions that will help her rediscover not only her love of reading, but identify what she loves to read now—and she's come up with a special project to help frame her quest. Jessica Harrill decided to celebrate her 32nd birthday by reading 32 books, and she's looking for some help to decide which books will make the cut. As an attorney, much of Jessica's recent reading has been work-oriented, and she's ready to tackle some fresh genres, reconnect with her love of reading, and find some support for her current stage of life. Anne and Jessica discuss the three types of books Jessica wants to include in her project and revisit her past favorites, before Anne offers some suggestions to help Jessica rekindle her passion for getting lost in a good book and inform her 32nd year. Listen in and find all of the titles we discussed today at our website: whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/309. We put together our best seasonal posts to get you in the holiday spirit and we'll be adding to that page over the next few days. Get prepared to deal with holiday stress, find the best gifts for everyone on your list, and learn how to make my favorite seasonal snack at modernmrsdarcy.com/christmas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, this show is all about helping you discover your next read—which means we talk each week not only about the books our guests love and Anne's recommendations, but about the authors behind the books. Anne's recommendations and our guests' tastes vary widely, but sometimes we see authors who show up again and again on the show. And in today's episode, we're bringing you conversations with three of these writers who mean something a little extra special to our WSIRN community. Join Anne in conversation with Peter Heller, Tayari Jones, and Becky Chambers, as we explore their writing and reading lives, the books they've loved, and what they recommend we should all read next. To see the full list of books discussed today, check out our website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/308. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you've ever dreamed about becoming a writer, you're not alone. Writers begin as readers, after all, whether they're grounded in a love of memoir, fantasy, or any other genre on the shelf. Today's guest has built a career around coaching people from all backgrounds to embrace the joy of writing. Allison Fallon (Ally) is a Nashville-based writing coach and author of The Power of Writing it Down. She's seen firsthand the benefits that people experience when they begin to write, whether it's in a personal journal or a draft of a future publication. Ally's also a lifelong reader who has struggled to find as much time to read as she'd like since starting a family. Join Anne and Ally today in a conversation about how writing impacts us, the power of reading to transform us, and our shared appreciation for stories about complex human relationships. Anne has a few suggestions to help Ally re-discover her reading rhythm, and recommends some lyrical stories that we hope she'll love. Connect with Ally at her website or on Instagram @allyfallon. Listen in and see the full list of titles discussed today at our website: whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/307. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest is a dedicated reader who appreciates reading as both a leisure activity and a way to learn about other perspectives and experiences. But over the past few years, the stress of her work in the healthcare industry has impacted her reading life as she's found herself more easily distracted from her usual reads. Corinne Miller turned to poetry collections, finding joy and inspiration in shorter stints of reading and appreciating the elegant artistry of words on the page. Her exploration of the genre has given her energy to push through difficult times and led her to reconnect with the joy of reading. Anne and Corinne chat about why found family plots resonate with her, our shared appreciation for an artful structure on the page, and how poetry has helped re-energize her over the past year. Anne is recommending books and poetry collections that hopefully Corinne will love, and that would serve as wonderful entry points for anyone looking to sprinkle some poetry into their reading life. See all of the books and poetry collections discussed today at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/306, and let us know if you've read anything you think Corinne would enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Deciding what to read next is so much easier when you know what you love to read—and what you don't. In today's episode, Anne shares a behind-the-scenes look at her new reading journal, My Reading Life. Created to help you achieve your best reading life, Anne's journal is thoughtfully designed to help you understand what you love, and what you don't, about what you've read lately. My Reading Life is the result of hundreds of conversations and years of gathering knowledge, and the result is the reading journal that so many of our listeners have asked for! Listen in to enjoy this deep dive of My Reading Life. If you're ready to grab your copy, you can order one here, or ask your local independent bookstore to order it for you. If you're already using and loving your new book journal, be sure to tag @whatshouldireadnext in your Instagram posts, so we can celebrate along with you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, it's time for our sixth annual holiday recommendations episode! We're back with this much anticipated gift giving guide for the readers in your lives, and as always, it’s been a treat to create. Over the past few weeks, you called and emailed us with your bookish gift questions, and today Anne is teaming up with Valerie Koehler of Houston's Blue Willow Bookshop to help match the loved ones in your life with books we think they'll love. Whether you're looking for the best in board books or something that feels fresh in the world of thrillers & non-fiction, today's episode has you covered. Catch the full list of all the books recommended in today's episode at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/304. Be sure to check out Blue Willow Bookshop on Instagram at @bluewillowbooks. For extra treats like information on their amazing (in-person & virtual) events and their 2021 Best Of list, visit their website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This time of year, so many readers are looking to tip-toe (or sometimes, to sprint) into scary stories, but finding the right spooky read can be tricky. Today’s guest Margaret Prinzing knows what she likes to read in her preferred genres, but she's recently embarked on a journey to read more thrilling books and is eager to discover some new reads to help her find her way. But we don't just talk ghost stories and haunted houses—we discuss some of the challenges of breaking into a new genre of any kind, and Anne shares some top tips for readers looking to try something new without feeling totally disconnected from what they know the love. We hope you'll enjoy the conversation with Margaret today, and will walk away feeling inspired about what you hope to read next! You can see the full list of recommendations for Margaret at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/303, and leave a comment to suggest your favorite spooky reads you think she might enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you love books that make you think or spark a spirited discussion, you're on the same page as today's guests! Christine Pride and Jo Piazza have a shared passion for books where the stakes are high and the story is personal. From intimate memoirs to books featuring strong female friendships, they are looking for books that will show them something unique while evoking a strong reaction. Christine and Jo have a unique and long-lasting relationship of their own: they've worked together for years as editor & writer, and they recently embarked on a new stage of their bookish journey, jointly penning the brand-new release We Are Not Like Them. Listen in to today's conversation with Jo and Christine about books they've loved and stories that have moved them. See the full list of books we discussed on our website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/302, and leave a comment with any books you think Christine and Jo would love to read and discuss! Connect with Christine on Instagram and her website; Find Jo on Instagram and Twitter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, as we continue our celebration of 300 episodes of What Should I Read Next, today we are bringing your voices to the stage as Anne and WSIRN team member Leigh Kramer tackle your burning questions! We always enjoy our Ask Anne Anything episodes and the chance to hear what you’re curious about. We hope today's conversation and our answers give you a little more insight into the world of WSIRN. Thank you so much to everyone who sent in a question! Be sure to check out this episode's show notes for a list of all the books we discussed today. And sure you don't miss out on the final stage of our 300th episode celebration. We'll be hosting a special LIVE event for our Patreon community with interviews and conversations with three of WSIRN's most recommended authors, and we'd love to have you join us. Learn more at our Patreon site.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you've listened in to any—or all!— of our past 300 episodes, you've heard conversations with readers and authors, booksellers and book club members, and of course a whole lot of literary matchmaking. Today, after more than five years of creating bookish delight, we’re taking a moment to celebrate the people and process behind our weekly podcast and explore the many layers of WSIRN! Listen in today to hear from some of our original voices as we talk about how the show began, how it's grown over time, and peek behind the scenes of how we do what we do here at WSIRN HQs. We'll also hear from some of you about how this podcast has changed your reading lives! You can find our show notes, including a list of all the episodes mentioned in today's discussion, at our website! And for more 300th celebration, check out our Patreon community, where we're hosting an upcoming special event featuring some of WSIRN's most beloved authors. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, we know it can be tricky to break out of a reading rut, and sometimes it takes a nudge from a friend to try something new. Michael Clark has a good handle on what he loves to read. From beach reads that don't get the respect they deserve, to stories that acknowledge their literary heritage, he reaches across genres when he's picking up his next book and he's not afraid to put down a book that's not right for him. But today, he's feeling stuck in a bit of a reading drought. Michael's hoping to reinvigorate his reading life by discovering some books that deliver on his love of well-developed characters while delving into genres he typically ignores, like science fiction. Be sure to listen all the way through to hear Anne's picks for Michael, including a special bonus selection at the end of the episode today. Read this episode's show notes, including the full list of books we discussed, at our website. And if you're interested in seeing what Michael reads next, connect with him on Instagram. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest loves Jane Austen, but that's just the beginning for our conversation today. Cristina Griffin's work life as an English professor often overlaps with her personal love of reading for pure fun! She's drawn to atmospheric stories with brilliant endings and compelling characters, and she's read all the way through many an author's backlist. Anne recommends books that fit Cristina's desire for contemporary novels that are fun to read and a new-to-her series she can slowly devour. We hope today's episode might inspire you to break down some boundaries in your reading life and find a new, immersive read you'll enjoy. Visit our website to see the (long) list of books we discussed during this episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, today’s guest is on the hunt for complex, thought-provoking, and timeless books that have something to say about topics she cares about today. Maria Carrera lives in Spain, where she teaches English language. Her heart for languages drives both her professional and her reading life! She loves the experience of matching a book to her reading mood - and then choosing which translation of that book to read. But with so many good books to choose from, sometimes she just needs someone to tell her which book to pull from her ever-growing TBR stack. Today, we'll translate Maria’s book requests into recommendations for reads she can move to the top of her list.  To see the books we discussed in this episode, be sure to check out our website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/297. Connect with Maria on Twitter and Instagram to follow along with what she reads next. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, today’s guest knows that she’s overlooked some amazing books over the last ten years, but she needs a little help to figure out which ones to pick up now.  Amber Burns loves discovering something new in the books she reads, and she's also a mood reader. She's looking for stories filled with believable tension and humor, and she loves a good enemies to lovers trope. When she’s not reading in the best coffee shops of her beloved Philadelphia or exploring the city’s vibrant used bookstore scene, Amber is hosting her podcast, Thank You For Asking, and working as a content creator. If you’re looking for a mind-blowing book that keeps you up late turning the pages, we hope you’ll find some suggestions in today's episode. To see a list of those books check out our website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/296. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, after a move today’s guest craved community and an outlet for her “pent-up book energy.” She started a book club in her new neighborhood and quickly discovered getting started wasn’t as hard as she thought it would be. Today, Shweta Hegde walks us through the steps she took to form a bookish community and provides some friendly encouragement for you to get that book talk going.  This was only Shweta's latest move: she grew up in India in a military family—so she moved a lot as a kid. In each new town she sought out that magical place that opened up her whole world: the library. Readers, prepare to be consumed by bookish nostalgia as Shweta recalls her first experience at the library and the magical realization that she could take a whole stack of books home with her. We also talk about how the library never lost its magic, how Shweta continues to love exploring new worlds in the pages of her books, and Anne helps her find books with characters she can really get attached to.  To see a list of those books check out our website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/295. Our 300th episode is coming soon! At this momentous occasion, we want to celebrate all that’s happened over the past 5 and a half years—and we’re looking for your input. We’d love to know something YOU learned from the show. Visit whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/learned300 to learn more about how to participate. We can’t wait to hear from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s been a long time since we’ve had a teenager on the show—and today’s guest isn’t here to talk about YA. Katie Guenthner has long been reading classics, historical nonfiction, and the most formidable books she can find at the library in order to uphold her status as an “advanced reader.”  After listening to countless readers wax poetic about reading for escape on WSIRN, Katie realized that's what was missing in her reading life. Now she’s ready to trade Charles Dickens for the lighthearted stories she’s been eschewing for too long.  Anne recommends books that will help Katie take herself less seriously as a reader and help her welcome more fun reads to her library holds list. And we guarantee today’s conversation takes some turns you are NOT expecting, that you’re really gonna enjoy.   Visit our website for the full list of books discussed on today's episode and to leave Katie your recommendations for fun reads she should read next. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As a city planner in Calgary, Caylee Dyck knows how to problem solve and prioritize in order to create better communities and a more liveable cities–built environments people feel good spending time in. But when it comes to her reading life, Caylee is struggling to create a pleasing, welcoming, workable model for choosing what to read next. With over 900 titles on her To Be Read list and more than 150 ebooks on her Kindle, she's feeling a bit overwhelmed. Anne helps Caylee transform her literary landscape with practical, actionable, and sometimes (as you’ll hear) tangible tips for tackling her TBR. Then gets her started off by highlighting a few titles from among her digital ebook downloads that Anne think she’s likely to love. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your unread books, we hope you find a solution that works for you in today’s episode. To see the list of the books we discuss from Caylee's Kindle downloads, including the books Anne recommends, visit the podcast website at https://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/293 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Regular listeners know good book talk often blends the heavy and the light—and that is certainly true for today's show. Today's episode is tons of fun, and has us thinking about our own life-changing literary experiences. As an avid library user and member of two book clubs, our guest Loren Mueller has no problem adding potential life-changing reads to her To Be Read list, and then diving in. But she does have trouble remembering specific details from what she read—and today, we’re gonna figure out what to do about it. We discuss ways to retain what you read while reading for the fun of it, and why an “easy” reading experience means something different to every reader. Check out the show notes post on our website for the full list of books discussed today and a transcript of the show. One of my go-to tips for any reader who wants to learn more about themselves as a reader is to start a book journal to capture what they’ve read, what they want to read, and other important info that will better their reading lives. That's why I’m thrilled to offer my own beautiful and functional journal.      The journal is called My Reading Life and it’s available September 21st but you can preorder a copy now and we've got some fun preorder bonuses for those of you who do just that. Learn more about My Reading Life and the bonuses at modernmrsdarcy.com/journal. Thanks to this week's sponsors: Bombas performance socks are built to be nothing but comfortable and supportive. And like all their socks, for every pair of Bombas performance socks you buy, they donate a pair to someone in need. They’ve donated over 45 million pairs so far! Bombas is offering WSIRN listeners 20% off your first order. Ritual uses vegan-certified, non-GMO, gluten-free, and allergen-free ingredients—and their sources—are out there for the whole world to see because they believe you deserve to know what you’re putting in your body and why. Ritual is offering my listeners 10% off your first three months! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Behind the scenes at What Should I Read Next? and Modern Mrs. Darcy, we have a team of readers who are bursting with bookish enthusiasm. Our producer Brenna paired us up in our virtual recording studio, matching team members you’ve never heard discuss books together on the show. Our reading tastes are vastly different, but we quickly discovered that talking about books creates instant connections—even when reading preferences don’t seem to match up at all.  We had the best time discussing what summer reading means to us, what we’ve read and loved lately, and what we hope to read next before the season is over. We hope today's collection of bookish conversations inspires you to ask your coworkers, friends, or family members what books they’ve loved recently. And, of course, we hope you find your next great read among the abundance of titles we talk about today.  See all of the books we discuss or follow along with a transcript on the show notes page. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest describes herself as a serial starter who might have started up to 10 books before finishing one. She even keeps moving through several books at once by reading different genres at different times of the day. Shanel Sparr is an artistic Jill of all Trades–acting, directing, crocheting and designing clothes. But as an avid collector of hobbies, reading still holds a distinct place in her life—and she highly values being well-rounded as a reader. Shanel loves books that explore a character’s interior landscape, especially when that’s packaged in a surprising way, and doesn’t mind going a bit dark, or eerie. Although she has found she has a limit—and so today I’m looking for titles that walk the fine line of addressing hard things without tipping into overly tragic. See all of the books we discuss or follow along with a transcript on the show notes page. You can learn more about all of Shanel's artistic endeavors on her website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest created a unique plan to help him tackle the books one “must read before they die,” but now he’s looking for less planning and more bookish serendipity.  Author, blogger, and podcaster Neil Pasricha hosts the show 3 Books, where he talks with avid readers about the three most formative books in their lives. The show originated as a way for Neil to find lesser known titles and backlist books to boost his reading life. Now, he finds himself assigning too much “reading homework,” and he’s looking for ways to spend more time connecting with each book he reads instead of breezing through to the next checkmark on his TBR. Between two book podcasters we cover a lot of ground today. Be sure to check out the show notes for a full list of the titles. You just might find a formative book for you. You can find Neil writing on his website or follow him on Twitter and Instagram. And don't forget to listen to my episode of 3 Books recorded (partially) in the Rare Books Room at the Strand. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you a book collector? Today's guest has a bookshelf full of vintage beauty guidebooks, and though she considers this a separate part of her bookish life, there were some surprising connections to her taste in crime fiction. After hearing about her collection, you may not be surprised to find out that Brenda LaBelle is a make-up artist turned librarian. She's looking for more than a pretty cover though, Brenda likes books with stylish prose and memorable characters. Listen now wherever you get your podcasts—and be sure to visit the show website for today's complete book list–including titles you’ve never heard on the podcast. (You'll also find a photo of Brenda's beauty bookshelf there!) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest loves discussing books just as much as she enjoys reading them. She's ready to swap spicy opinions and share book recommendations with her fellow readers, but she hasn't found those fellow readers just yet. Allison Matz prefers to be Twitter and Instagram-free even though she knows there are vibrant book communities online. Today she comes to us with a question: with no social media, how is an avid reader supposed to connect with her book people? Anne has some advice for Allison, and hopefully you’ll pick up some tips today, too—whether you’re getting ready to meet your book club in person again or are still seeking out your group of readers. Allison also displays her passion for a genre that doesn't get a lot of love on the podcast. Visit the podcast website for today's complete book list and to leave a comment for Allison since she's not on social media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you've been listening to podcasts or tearing through a new series on Netflix instead of picking up a book, we're here to cheer you on (really)! Different forms of art and storytelling can be a refreshing change of pace for avid readers, and taking a break from the books might even benefit your reading life in the long run. But today's guest came to us with a request for books that will hold his attention and get him back to turning the pages instead of pressing play on another podcast episode. In addition to podcast listening, youth services librarian Hamid Printer enjoys recommending adventurous, exciting books to readers of all ages and hosting epic fantasy game nights for friends. Anne has a whole lot of books to share with Hamid that will hopefully rival even the most immersive game night or absorbing podcast episode. Head over to the show notes page on our website for all of the books, podcasts, and games mentioned in today's show. You can follow Hamid on Instagram. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Even though reading is a solitary activity, you’re never truly alone as a reader. You’re never the only reader who prefers dog-eared pages to bookmarks or the only reader who reads the last page first.  Today’s guest used to feel self-conscious about her affection for stories that explore difficult themes. But we know that Rachel Matthews isn’t the only reader who enjoys darker fiction. In fact, I’m willing to bet that some of you have been waiting for an episode with a reader just like Rachel.  Check out the full list of books from today's show at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/285 If Rachel's dark side sounds like your book twin be sure to follow her on Instagram. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Over the last year, we’ve talked to readers who voraciously devour romance, mystery, and graphic novels to escape real life—and readers who struggle to pick up a single book, even if they know it’s one they’ll love. There’s no right way to respond to stress as a reader, and today’s guest is here to share encouragement and insight for readers experiencing burnout.  Journalist Anne Helen Petersen writes the weekly email newsletter Culture Study and recently published Can’t Even: How Millennials Became the Burnout Generation—today, we discuss how all of us, millennial or otherwise, have experienced the burnout associated with a global pandemic and seen its effects in our reading lives. No matter how your reading life has changed, or stayed the same, over the last year, you’ll find comfort in today’s episode, as well as insight into your experience this past year. Visit the show notes page on our website to get the full list of books discuss and to read along with a full-show transcript. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode has literally been years in the making: today I'm thrilled to welcome Ginger Horton, our Modern Mrs. Darcy Book Club community manager, to the show! The 2021 Summer Reading Guide is about to drop, and in this celebratory episode, Ginger shares her three favorite backlist summer reading guide selections, and I recommend three books I think she’ll love from this year’s summer reading guide. Of course, we can’t help squeezing in extra book talk, as we often do, so listen in for a pile of both backlist and brand new summer reading recommendations. Be sure to visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/283 for today's complete book list. To get in on the summer reading fun be sure you're subscribed to our weekly newsletter so you'll get the Summer Reading Guide when it comes out May 24th. You can also join us live for the Summer Reading Guide Unboxing and get an expanded guide early by becoming a member of our Patreon community. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I think many of you will relate when you hear today's guest say he’s “a little bit obsessed with books.” This is definitely a good thing for Jeremy Anderberg because not only is reading a source of enjoyment and intellectual satisfaction, it’s also a key part of his job as a writer and podcast producer. He writes for The Art of Manliness blog, produces The Art of Manliness podcast, and publishes the "Read More Books” newsletter. Today we discuss the difference between finding what you like to read versus what you feel you should read. We also discuss finding seasonal rhythms in your reading life, finding books so compelling it feels like the pages turn themselves, and why Jeremy finds it so satisfying to give his reading life some structure with “projects” he plans for himself.  To see all of Jeremy's project books and Anne's recommendations visit the show notes page at https://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/282 To read Jeremy's book reviews, follow him on Instagram and Twitter, or subscribe to his weekly newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lecturer, author, and researcher Heather Williams has left trails of books across the globe as she travels for work, but today she’s bringing us three favorite essay collections she can’t live without.  Heather’s love of bite-sized reading experiences is contagious. If you’ve never picked up an essay collection, she just might convince you to do so today. We also discuss her preference for reliable narrators, a surprising fascination with Russian literature, and a book that made Heather laugh a little too loudly while reading on a plane.  I happen to love personal essays just as much as Heather, and I can’t wait for you to listen in on our conversation, readers. For a list of all of the books, essay collections and novels, head to the show notes page on our website: https://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/281 Follow Heather Williams on Twitter to learn more about her research. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After becoming an avid WSIRN listener, today's guest realized she was watching less TV and reading more books. To keep her momentum going, she connected with other listeners, found her favorite reading categories, and now sits down with Anne to chat about a classic WSIRN problem: the compulsion to finish every book she starts. Today we're joined by Stacy Wittenberg, who talks to Anne about that inclination and about a reading challenge she’s taken on for this year. Anne recommends books that will take her on epic historical journeys, plus an audiobook that will have her neighbors asking What is she laughing at? when she listens on her daily stroll. Stacy shares extra titles in each of her reading categories, so get your TBR lists ready and be sure to pull up the podcast website to see the list of all the title she (and Anne) share. That's at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/280. As a listener, Stacy has been connecting with other fans of the show online. Now that you've heard her, if you'd like to connect with Stacy follow her on Instagram. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Over the years Ahtoosa Dale sent in multiple submissions to be on What Should I Read Next, each one reflecting her ever-evolving reading taste. Since that first submission way back in 2016, her reading life has changed tremendously. Now, as a lawyer and a mom with a packed schedule, she’s more willing than she once was to set certain books aside. And as an adult, she’s looking for relatable characters—especially if the book explores the immigrant experience. But Ahtoosa will never say no to a good mystery, or a book that explores the range of human emotions.  Ahtoosa specifically requested books that will give her a good cry, so on today's episode I’m recommending a few heartfelt books to bring on the tears, plus a propulsive page-turner in one of her go-to genres.   Find the list of books we talk about today and a full transcript that you can follow along while you're listening on our website.  You can fill out your own guest submission form on our website. Thanks to our sponsors: Rothy’s shoes are seamless and fully machine washable, making them ultra comfortable and ultra convenient. Every time they need a refresh, you can simply toss them in the washing machine! They’re simple, comfy, and they go with everything. Through May 9th 2021, you can get $20 off your first purchase of $100 or more at Rothys.com/READNEXT. Betabrand pants look good, feel comfortable, and they’re easy to wear with any outfit. Whatever your style, they have the pants to match. What Should I Read Next listeners can take 30% off your first order at Betabrand.com/READNEXT. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mindy Mejia enjoys propulsive, fast-paced books with strong characters—and she writes them, too! Mindy writes thrillers, or as she calls them “murdery books,” but she reads from a whole banquet of literature. Anne got to talk with her about setting reading intentions, sampling books—which, as you’ll hear, is a bit of a euphemism—and learning about surprisingly fascinating topics as we read. As always, she recommends a handful of books we think Mindy will love, including an upcoming thriller that Anne loved, a nonfiction book she wasn't expecting to be talking about today, and selections from a genre that doesn’t get mentioned all that often around here. To see a list with those titles and all of the books we mentioned visit the show page at https://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/278. Find out what Mindy Mejia is reading and writing on Twitter, Instagram, Goodreads, or her website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Anne is talking with Jake Sloofman, an arborist living in Brooklyn. They discuss his big reading goal, the pressure to read “serious literature,” and how to alternate light and heavy reads for a balanced reading life. So Anne serves up a mix of weighty literature and frothy “palate cleanser” books to keep things balanced. View the full list of titles and a transcript of the episode on our website https://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/277. You can follow Jake on Instagram. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Podcast producer and PhD student Sara Aeder always finds time for reading, thanks to audiobooks and a passion for turning the pages. She has a special fondness for books that explore the “exquisite pain of a teenage crush” and let her live vicariously through fictional drama, but Sara’s taste in books goes way beyond young adult lit.  Today on the podcast, Sara shares three books she loves that cover the main themes of her reading taste, and I recommend several titles that I think she'll love. We mention over 40 titles in today’s episode, from all-time favorites to books that fell flat. Listen in to find out which book Sara threw across the room and be sure to check out the full list of every single book we talk about on our website.  You can follow Sara on Instagram or check out her work at Tablet Podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do you manage your reading life when you have many books you NEED to read, and many more you'd LIKE to read, just for you? In today's episode we're diving into that question with Brigid Misselhorn, a self-described "book club addict" who offers insight into this highly relatable question. Bonus: Brigid describes herself as a "naturally slow" reader; we know many of you love it when our guest's reading life mirrors your own in this specific way. From graphic novels to gothic mysteries, today’s titles are a lot of fun. This is one of those episodes where I have to try several times to find the right titles that Brigid hasn't read yet! Be sure to visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/275 for today's complete book list–it's a long one. To see her latest buddy read follow Brigid on Instagram. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, the origin story for today’s episode might make you swoon. It all started with a conversation on Instagram, where Anne got a message from one incredibly intentional boyfriend hoping to make some bookish dreams come true. After learning more, we invited his girlfriend Ashley on the show, and I’ll let her tell the whole story today.  Ashley Parrish is a book lover and self-proclaimed TV junkie who enjoys scrolling bookstagram but wants to find more backlist titles instead of picking up every book that garners a lot of buzz on social media—we know many of you can relate. Today, Anne is sharing three (or maybe a few more) titles to satisfy Ashley’s love of page-turning fiction and books that revolve around the performing arts. Visit the podcast website to see all the books discussed in this episode or to follow along with a transcript of the show. You can follow Ashley on Instagram, where she shares her recent reads. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, today’s show is a de-light. We have had mother-daughter duos on the show and even a father-daughter duo with Ashley and Brent from episode 155, but today Anne talks with Rebekah and Beverly, our first grandmother-granddaughter pair — and Beverly is our first nonogenarian! When Rebekah sent in a guest submission she included three books she and Beverly both love, but then she put her own fun twist on the rest. She told us one book that Beverly loved and Rebekah hated, and another Rebekah loved but Beverly hated. Anne's tricky task is to find three books they’ll both enjoy reading together. As you'll hear, it turns out the options were plentiful. In fact they get a few bonus recommendations. All of the books Beverly, Rebekah and Anne discuss are on our podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/272 as well as a full transcript of today's episode. Beverly is not on social media, but you can find Rebekah on Twitter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Anne's guest is an Alabama teacher whose love of reading has touched every aspect of his life—from where he met his wife to the theme of his classroom today. Derek is a MATH teacher but he puts his reading right there on the wall for his students to see and he loves talking books with fellow teachers. You're going to love this conversation about his early library adventures, the books he’s passing down to his son, and the gorgeous engagement photos he and his wife took in the library where they met.   Derek knows his go-to AND the font that tells him this book is right for him–but he’s challenging himself to try and push some boundaries and not be quite so carefully curated. Anne's challenge is to recommend three books that are right for where he is in his reading life right now.  Visit the show page for a list of all of the books discussed and to leave your own recommendations for Derek. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do you track your reading life? Today's guest has a whole new system of book tracking and reviewing to share. Anne is talking with Nadia Odunayo, the reader and entrepreneur behind The Storygraph, a brand new website full of tracking tools and detailed rating systems to help readers go beyond a book’s jacket copy and filter through information to find what they’re really looking for. We love hearing behind the scenes stories and it was fascinating to hear Nadia explain how this creative endeavor came to be. We also mention a bunch of books that have never made it on the podcast before and Anne recommends a couple of genres that haven't gotten much attention on the podcast. We can't wait to hear which titles end up on your TBR lists. Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/271 for the full list of titles Nadia and Anne discuss. Find Nadia and The Storygraph on Instagram, Twitter or The Storygraph website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, in today's podcast episode, I’m talking with graphic memoirist and comic creator Lucy Knisley. We chat about her overflowing bookshelves, the pleasures and pitfalls of the creative process, what makes the perfect pandemic stress read, and how to cope with your kids’ evolving reading tastes. Lucy is looking for distraction in her reading life right now and needs some low-stress books to read before bed; I have plenty of recommendations to suit her taste (and fill your to-be-read lists).   We’ve never talked about graphic memoirs and comics in-depth on the podcast before. I can’t wait for you to hear Lucy’s enthusiasm for comics, graphic novels, and what those terms even mean. The audio for this episode comes from a live event that we hosted in the Modern Mrs. Darcy Book Club. We read Lucy’s graphic food memoir Relish as a bonus book club pick last month, and this What Should I Read Next-style event was an extra sprinkle of bookish joy for our book club members. Join us for a Patreon livestream! Readers, it’s time for our quarterly Patreon livestream! Next week, we'll be hosting a virtual chat in our Patreon community. We’ll hang out, answer your questions, and (of course) share a bunch of book recommendations.  To learn more about our community or to join us for our livestream on Tuesday February 16th at 1 pm click here. If you can’t make it live, we’ll record the event so members can watch it at any time.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest is Tiffany Patterson, a Florida reader who created a new kind of literary get-together that is convincing her not-so-readerly friends to give books and reading a chance. She breaks down all the details of her brilliant idea so that you can steal it and start your own group. This episode was recorded in 2019 and aired as Episode 166: Just don’t call it book club. That means this was pre-Covid, so we talk about getting together as actually getting together. It also means that some of you have already heard this and told us that you’ve borrowed Tiffany's format for your own use, and it’s vastly improved your reading life and your relationships.  If you're one of them or you find the idea of a neighborhood literary society intriguing, let us know in the comments of today's show notes post. You can follow Tiffany reading life on Instagram. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At the end of last year we hosted a virtual book party in the Modern Mrs. Darcy Book Club to celebrate our favorite books of the year. The whole What Should I Read Next and Modern Mrs Darcy teams shared their top books of 2020 and we all walked away with a longer To Be Read list. Our team is made up of a bunch of bookworms with very different reading tastes, but that doesn’t stop us from swapping book recommendations all the time. We recorded that event (as we do with all of our Book Club events), and WSIRN producer Brenna worked her editing magic to create this episode for you. Head to our website to see the list of everyone's recommendations. If you’d like to see us talk about these books, the video recording of this event is available in the Modern Mrs. Darcy Book Club, our member community devoted to bookish community, classes, and conversation. In addition to events like these and classes on the reading life, every month we read one main book together and meet to discuss it on video—often with the author—including recent book club discussions with Anne Mah, Elizabeth Acevedo, Tayari Jones.  Join today to catch up on all of our past events and to participate in our upcoming live discussion with author Louise Miller or our next class Clean Out the Bookish Clutter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our guest today is an economist and literature enthusiast based in London, England. A well-traveled reader in every sense, Stephanie De Mel has lived on multiple continents and combines her love of travel and books in her Reading the World Challenge. Steph’s sense of curiosity informs her book choices and her broad reading tastes challenge Anne to recommend three books to suit. Steph also shares how she applies her analytical tendencies to her reading life–looking at her bookish data while focusing on quality over quantity. Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/267 for a full transcript of the show and to see the list of titles mentioned. Connect with Stephanie on Instagram @thebookisheconomist. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, it’s the 5th anniversary of What Should I Read Next! Today I'm answering YOUR questions about WSIRN's behind-the-scenes, my personal reading life, and so much more. Thank you for submitting such thoughtful and fun questions! I did my best to answer as many as possible, and you can find answers to frequently asked questions linked in the show notes below. Happy reading! -Anne Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/266 to see the full list of titles discussed, an episode transcript, and more. Where to find Anne online: • The What Should I Read Next newsletter • What Should I Read Next on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram • Anne on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram • Anne's blog Modern Mrs Darcy • What Should I Read Next Patreon community • Modern Mrs Darcy Book Club • What Should I Read Next Youtube Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, we’re kicking off the new year with a special episode to help you set the right tone for your reading life in 2021. My friend Laura Tremaine is joining me to guide us in some readerly introspection. Laura hosts the Ten Things to Tell You podcast, where she shares guided questions and prompts to help listeners reflect on different aspects of their lives. Laura brings her expert skills as a conversation-starter to our literary therapy session today.  Here at WSIRN, we love thinking about books almost as much as we love reading them, so today we’re sharing 10 questions to ask yourself about your reading life. These questions are meant to help you read with purpose and create a reading life that YOU love.  Of course, we can’t help but share our own answers and offer advice along the way. Whether you’re too easily distracted by shiny new bestsellers, or simply in need of a new reading routine, I hope you enjoy this intentional time to reflect on and recharge your reading life.  Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/265 to see the full list of titles discussed, an episode transcript, and more. Where to find Anne online: • The What Should I Read Next newsletter • What Should I Read Next on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram • Anne on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram • Anne's blog Modern Mrs Darcy • What Should I Read Next Patreon community • Modern Mrs Darcy Book Club • What Should I Read Next Youtube Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anne's challenge today is to share recommendations for books with unique and artful structures. Today's guest is a Chicago-based mood reader with a contagious love of books. When Anna Morton isn't working or volunteering for the Art Institute of Chicago, she's reading “compulsively readable literary fiction,” a term Anne fondly coined for books with the perfect combination of page-turning plot and stunning prose.  Reading is also a family affair for Anna, who proudly plays the role of “literary commissioner” for their Literary Christmas tradition, which Anne eager to implement with her family now — and maybe you will too! Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/264 to see the full list of titles discussed, an episode transcript, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest also loves giving recommendations—to her boss, to her mom, and to strangers standing in the book aisle at Target. For Jenica Salazar, nothing is more satisfying than recommending the right book to the right reader. But today, she’s here for a little bit of literary therapy for herself. Anne chats with Jenica about a common bookworm problem: the guilt of giving up on a book that’s just not keeping your attention. They're also working out reading routines and making Jenica's reading life run more smoothly. Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/263 to see the full list of titles discussed, an episode transcript, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest tells a familiar story: he loved reading as a kid, but as an adult without a Scholastic book fair to look forward to, he fell into the habit of rereading or staying in his “safe zone” of sci-fi and fantasy. Geologist Max Lemoine needed just the right book to pull him out of his reading rut. He’s eager to uncover more titles that are outside of his reading comfort zone, so today Anne is recommending books with depth that also offer distraction from everyday life and books with immersive world-building. Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/262 to see the full list of titles discussed, an episode transcript, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers have asked us for “comfort reads” over and over again this year — and it's totally understandable. “Comfort read” means something different to every reader, but if you’re looking for books that slow your heart rate, soothe your soul, and make you want to travel to a quiet English village, this episode is for you.  Today’s guest Gina House appreciates cozy, comforting reads that feel like a warm hug. She adores cozy mysteries like Agatha Christie novels, but she could do without the murder. So today, Anne recommends charming books that pair well with a comfy chair and a cup of tea.  Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/261 to see the full list of titles discussed, an episode transcript, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sara Jones takes her role as “neighborhood library curator” seriously. In addition to selecting books for her own reading life, Sara Jones carefully curates her Little Free Library collection to reflect the reading tastes and needs of her community. She likes to feature a healthy mix of books for kids and adults, and she’s always on the lookout for fiction that her neighbors will find irresistible as they’re walking by.  Today, Anne helps Sara stock her Little Free Library with crowd-pleasing books her neighbors will love, from charming picture books to unputdownable contemporary fiction. If you’ve ever strolled by a Little Free Library and wondered how it works or how to start your own, this episode is for you.  Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/260 to see the full list of titles discussed, an episode transcript, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The sci-fi genre feels like home, but Emily Van Ark also enjoys books in any genre that deliver on a fabulous premise. In her day job as a data scientist, Emily nalyzes data in order to find patterns and make recommendations for improving people’s lives... and Anne's job this week is to do some helpful data analysis for her reading life (with less math and more conversation). Emily also shared a bunch of sci-fi recommendations to expand Anne's reading horizons. Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/259 to see the full list of titles we discussed, an episode transcript, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Reading for pure escapism means something different for every reader. Some of us turn to puzzle-like mysteries, some of us immerse ourselves in fantastical worlds. Today’s guest stays away from doom scrolling by reading lots and lots and lots of romance. “Recovering English major” Jenna Lowenstein still enjoys the occasional literary fiction read, but these days she’s picking up the books she wants to read instead of forcing the books she feels like she should read. From spicy romance novels to thrillers with deep themes, books help Jenna set aside her high-pressure job in politics and engage with the world ...without looking at her news app.  Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/258 to see the full list of titles we discussed, an episode transcript, and more. You can follow Jenna on Twitter & Instagram @just_jenna Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our annual holiday recommendations episode is here! A few weeks ago, you called us with your bookish gift buying questions and dilemmas, and today Anne is answering those questions alongside Beth Buss, the general bookstore manager at Bookmarks, a literary arts nonprofit in downtown Winston-Salem North Carolina. Beth and Anne will help you find just the right gifts for their loved ones of all ages and reading tastes, from classic kid lit to science fiction… and everything in between. Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/257 to see the full list of titles we discussed, an episode transcript, and more. Learn more about Bookmarks, including the Book Build project Beth mentions, on their websit bookmarksnc.org. If none of our recommendations fit the reader in your life their Signed First Editions Club or their Kids’ Club would also make great gifts. And keep an eye on their events page as they continue to have great online events and are looking forward to the next Bookmarks Festival–a bookish bucket list event. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Reader Cliff Cullen was in the middle of his best reading year ever when...the pandemic hit. His one-time favorite reading habits, like listening to audiobooks during his commute, have had to change—but his voracious appetite for books remains the same. Today, Anne recommends books in a wide variety of genres to suit Cliff’s eclectic reading taste and push the boundaries of his typical book selections. Also discussed: “themed” reading based on seasons or settings, reading your cookbooks, and the special accomplishment of reading every single book by your favorite author.  Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/256 to see the full list of titles we discussed, an episode transcript, and more. You can follow Cliff’s cookbook adventures on Instagram @cookingwithclifton.  Our next livestream with our Patreon members is this Thursday. Join Brenna and Anne to ask them anything and to participate in a little live literary matchmaking. Find out more at patreon.com/whatshouldireadnext. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Valencia Taylor is self-proclaimed book-pusher looking for reads that fall on the line between just-spooky-enough and way-too-scary, compelling stories that teach her something new about the world, and a way to keep track of her reading life. Of course, as a fellow book-pusher, Anne has plenty of recommendations and practical tips to share... Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/255 to see the full list of titles we discussed, an episode transcript, and more. You can follow Valencia’s reading life on Instagram @vtaylor42 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anne is joined by Sarah Stewart Holland & Beth Silvers of Pantsuit Politics podcast to discuss fiction and nonfiction recommendations that have shaped their understanding of politics, history, and what it means to be a human in this world. They're each sharing "political" books they personally love and often recommend, because they are fascinating, thought-provoking, and sometimes surprisingly page-turning. Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/254 to see the full list of titles we discussed, an episode transcript, and more. Readers, the holidays are fast approaching and around here we’re of the opinion books make the perfect gift, whether you’re shopping for friends, family, coworkers, or teachers. But choosing the right title can be tough, so it’s become a tradition on WSIRN to have a special guest join me on the show to help us match YOUR loved one with the perfect readerly gift. If you want our help building your bookish shopping list, there are two ways to participate:  Leave me a voicemail from your phone or computer at speakpipe.com/whatshouldireadnext ‬sharing who you’d like a gift recommendation for, a couple of books they love, a book or genre you know they don’t like, and any little details you think are useful. Please make sure to keep your message under 1 minute!  You can also email our producer Brenna at brenna@modernmrsdarcy.com with the same details - who your giftee is, their favorites, their least favorites, and whatever else you think would be helpful We’ll squeeze as many submissions as we can into the upcoming holiday episode, and hook you up with the perfect bookish gifts! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hey readers! Get your TBRs ready, because today’s episode contains a TON of book titles for a wide array of reading tastes, from a few voices which might sound familiar if you’ve been a long-time WSIRN listener. A few weeks ago, we asked the Modern Mrs Darcy and What Should I Read Next team to share their own summer reading recaps for a special Patreon bonus episode. Today, as we honor the change of the seasons (or perhaps cling fiercely to our page-turning beach reads), we’re sharing the full audio of that bonus episode here. If you’re a patreon member who’s already listened—well, first of all, thank you! And KEEP LISTENING, because today you’ll hear Brenna and Anne will be sharing some of our favorite summer reads as well, a brand new addition to the original bonus episode.  Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/253 to see the full list of titles we discussed, an episode transcript, and more. We share bonus episodes like this one every week on Patreon – there’s over 20 hours of bonus audio waiting for you. Our community members get those regular extra doses of book talk, plus bonus content like our printable Summer Reading Guide and our new Fall Book Preview digital magazine, PLUS our video Unboxing events and member-only Ask Us Anything sessions. We’d love to have you join our community of avid readers:  Become a member today at Patreon.com/WHATSHOULDIREADNEXT! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest wants surprising books with unique story structures, new information, and plot twists that will make her say, “what did I just read?” Shelly Akins is a proud Arizonian who is always reading. And when she isn’t reading, she loves attending the Tuscon Festival of Books, a huge literary festival where both book talk and fangirling are welcomed. We eagerly await the day we can gather for book festivals again, but in the meantime, Shelly finds community in her Book Challenge Group, which is not a traditional book club. Talking books with fellow readers has helped Shelly hone in on her personal reading taste and decide what she wants more of in her reading life. Today, Anne's recommending three titles to surprise and delight this avid reader! Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/252 to see the full list of titles we discussed, an episode transcript, and more. You can follow Shelly's reading life on Instagram @shellyreads.stuff. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest is a self-proclaimed “book glutton” who reads in between everyday moments at home, at work, and even while she’s walking. Grettel Castro is a biostatistician living in Miami, Florida. She emigrated to the United States from Cuba at the age of 14, but her voracious appetite for reading started much earlier. Readers, I’m sure many of you will relate to Grettel’s story of falling in love with books as a young reader, as well as her current mixed feelings on big literary award-winning novels.  Grettel loves backlist books, or as she says, older novels that have “simmered” for a while, and has mixed feelings on which books take home the big literary awards... so today, in addition to getting tips on reading with an open novel in my hands, I’m recommending three great books with literary staying power.  Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/251 to see the full list of titles we discussed, an episode transcript, and more. You can snoop on Grettel's reading life on Instagram @6wordsbookreviews We're going back to Book School! This season we’re learning to read better, together—excessively nerdy and super enjoyable classes that will help you go deeper with your books, brighten your book talk, and have more fun in your reading life! Book School is part of the Modern Mrs Darcy Book Club, so you’ll get to pair what you’re learning with the books we’re reading and the authors we’re chatting with this fall.  Book school is under way so join now. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest has a story that sounds like the beginning of a juicy historical fiction novel. As a teenager, Liz Maguire came across a batch of 1920s love letters at a flea market. This launched an obsession with collecting vintage letters and preserving people’s personal correspondence as a piece of history. Of course, this project has had a marked affect on her reading life, so Liz has come to Anne looking for books that measure up to the detailed, intimate depictions of the real stories found in her vintage letters. Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/250 to see the full list of titles we discussed, an episode transcript, and more. You can learn all about Liz’s project at fleamarketloveletters.com and see the letters yourself on Instagram @fleamarketloveletters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

An encounter with The Baby-Sitters Club #4 Mary Anne Saves the Day launched today's guest into a lifelong love of reading AND a special fondness for middle grade novels. Afoma Umesi is a freelance writer, editor, and children’s book blogger living in Nigeria. Anne has her work cut out for her to recommend middle grade books Afoma hasn’t read yet, plus selecting an adult title to suit her taste. Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/249 to see the full list of titles we discussed, an episode transcript, and more. Make sure to visit Afoma's website: http://afomaumesi.com And give her a follow on Twitter: http://twitter.com/afomaumesi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today I’m talking with Jennifer Cordeiro, who lives in Bermuda, a small island with two bookstores and one library. Jennifer has encountered her fair share of #bookwormproblems, both in her own reading life and in her job at her small island bookstore where hurricanes, tourism, shipping dilemmas, and special orders mean you never know which books you’ll see on the shelves. Jennifer's personal bookshelves are currently overstuffed with more than ONE THOUSAND unread titles, and today my job is to help her choose what to read next. Plus, we talk about the occupational hazards of working in a bookstore, the joys of mood reading, and a surprising hometown connection. Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/248 to see the full list of titles we discussed, an episode transcript, and more. Follow Jennifer on Instagram @bdajen1. Our Fall Book Preview is coming up on September 1! Join us live when I share 42 (get it?) of this season’s eagerly-anticipated new releases, featuring a mix of titles I’ve read and loved, titles I can’t wait to read, and titles the book industry is abuzz about for the season to come. This year for the first time you'll also get the companion Fall Book Preview magazine. This event and companion magazine are exclusively for our MMD Book Club members and WSIRN Patreon "Book Lover" members. If you're not already a WSIRN member, now is a great time to join. Click here to find out more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's episode is all about the joy of reading in relationships. Our guests Emma Gorin and Dinah Fay have been friends since 9th grade—that’s over 20 years. They haven’t always kept in touch as much as they'd like to, but books have always given them an easy way to reconnect. Emma and Dinah put in their submission to be on WSIRN with the explicit goal of connecting over a great read that they’ll both enjoy—which is a bit of a challenge because while they both love to read, their reading tastes are quite different. With two guests today we cover a lot of readerly ground, chatting about English class in the age of Covid-19, a book-gifting tradition, queer YA romances, and rich audiobook experiences. We also cover A LOT OF TITLES. To see that full list of titles, be sure to visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/247 where we have a list of all the books we discussed, a transcript of the episode and more. Follow Emma on Instagram @Emma.g_sings123. On September 1st we're hosting a Fall Book Preview live for members of the What Should I Read Next patreon community. Parties like this are so much fun as Anne shares books she's read and loved, ones she's looking forward to, and some titles book world is abuzz about for the season to come. All in all we’ll preview 42 books so you can preorder some titles, place your library holds, and load up your TBR for the cooler nights to come. Become a member today at patreon.com/whatshouldireadnext and mark your calendars for September 1st. It’s gonna be great.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today's episode Anne helps Courtney Wallace, a Cincinnati reader, with a reading practice we hear surprisingly little about—her recent mid-year checkup on her reading goals. Lots of people talk about goals for the reading life—both numerical and content goals—at the start of every year. And we all see plenty of year-in-review summaries from readers. But when Courtney's guest submission mentioned her mid-year assessment we realized how rarely we stop to take stock of how our reading life has been thus far, while there’s still plenty of time to work on those reading goals before years’ end. So today we review Courtney’s reading year so far and discuss what she hopes the rest of the year holds, giving you plenty of reading reflection inspiration along the way. We also discuss the importance of the book community, and particularly in-person events, as well as one simple thing she’s doing to slow down and appreciate what she’s reading. Back-to-school season is similar to the New Year for many of us; it’s a time of new beginnings and fresh starts. Hopefully you'll pull some inspiration from Courtney’s mid-year checkup to evaluate your own reading year so far and make any course corrections you need heading into this new season. Connect with Courtney on Instagram @IncessantBookworm. Speaking of back-to-school, as we're turning our attention to fall we want to look head to what books are coming out this fall. And this fall is loaded with great titles. September 1st we'll be giving our patreon community a little preview of the top 40 titles I've loved, the ones I'm looking forward to, and the titles that have the book industry abuzz. Join our community to take part in the Fall Book Preview live on September 1st. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Over the years, Anne has been called many thing–podcaster, author, and now... Book Yoda, a name bestowed upon her by today's guest and Lazy Genius blogger Kendra Adachie. You remember Kendra from all the way back in Episode 27: Books good enough to make you turn off the tv (even if you love tv), over FOUR years ago. Her reading life has changed a lot since then, in no small part because of her first visit to WSIRN. That first visit did wonders for her reading life and gave her new insight into what kinds of books she loves, and WHY. Lately though, her reading life has felt like a roller coaster—you might relate—and we’re gonna talk about WHY, and what to do about it. They discuss winnowing your TBR list, being a Lazy Genius in your reading life, and the unique method Kendra uses to pick her books. Plus, as always, Anne delivers three book recommendations that will hopefully pull Kendra out of her current reading rut. If you've been feeling the strain of decision fatigue, lack of focus, or just not being able to finish a book lately, I hope you'll find some helpful tips in this episode to refresh and restore your reading life. Find out more about Kendra and her Lazy Genius Way (her philosophy and the title of her new book) on her website thelazygeniuscollective.com. Visit our website for a full list of the books we talked about and to read along with a transcript of the show. Our next livestream for our Patreon community is coming up. Join us September 1st for our Fall Book Preview–similar to the Summer Reading Guide Unboxing event we did in May, but instead of sharing all the titles I have read and loved, I’m sharing the books that publishers, booksellers, and other book people–including me–are excited about for the fall season. Now is the perfect time to join our community. Head to patreon.com/whatshouldireadnext to download our printable highlight reel, set up you bonus feed, and get ready for the Fall Book Preview. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest is looking for brain candy. That’s Elizabeth Cooper's delightful term for books that are FUN, with a killer premise, pages that practically turn themselves, and totally satisfying endings. Elizabeth’s past as a reader holds some surprising twists and turns itself — including a plot twist you're probably not expecting. Plus her method for choosing what to read next, is definitely a What Should I Read Next first. And of course Anne recommends three books that hopefully provide that brain candy reading experience Elizabeth is looking for. Visit the podcast website at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/244 for the full list of titles we discussed. Follow Elizabeth on Instagram: https://instagram.com/flutterandsprout_elizabeth Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Charlandra Jenkins is a Florida reader on the hunt for stories that reflect her life, love, grief, and humanity back to her. For Charlandra, new book releases and recent bestsellers by Black authors are a joy, but she’s also yearning for some history… backlist titles by women of color that say “hey! we’ve always been here, we’ve always existed”. Today, Anne recommend 3 backlist titles suited to Charlandra’s taste for complex, fully-realized female characters finding their way through life, and finding themselves along the way. They discuss Charlandra’s enduring love for Zora Neale Hurston, novels that carry the reader through grief... and you’ll definitely want to hear about the book Charlandra expects will become a classic of our time.  Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/243 Follow Charlandra's reading adventures on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rantiesnplanties Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anne is joined by Suzanne Skyvara, Goodreads VP of Marketing & Editorial, and Danny Feekes, Goodreads Managing Editor, to have an in-depth chat about how star ratings, reviews, and other nuggets of information we share online help connect our fellow readers to their next great read, support the authors we love, and change the way we see the world.  Anne, Suzanne, and Danny went so overboard with book recommendations that we had to cut 5 or 6 books to keep this episode a manageable length! We’re releasing all those extra recommendations as a bonus episode this Friday for our Patreon supporters. If you want to hear what recommendations ended up on the cutting room floor, become a patron today: patreon.com/whatshouldireadnext As you'll hear in the episode Anne has become a much more active Goodreads user in the past year, click here to follow her there. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/242 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Raelene Bradley has let books be her guide as she and her husband fulfill their longtime dream of living off the land with a family farm. Raelene’s stories of reading in the fields with her horse as a child, and audiobooks to accompany milking time are stuff of readerly dreams. Today, Anne and Raelene chat about the surprising disappointments from Raelene’s biggest reading year ever, and I’m helping her on her journey away from quantity and toward quality, by recommending she read a touching memoir, lush historical fiction, and a little something… unexpected. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/241 Become a patron now to gain access to a huge archive of bonus episodes, and join Brenna and Anne during our upcoming livestream on July 2nd: patreon.com/whatshouldireadnext Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Reader and author KJ Dell’Antonia picked up a lot of the wrong books during a difficult time in her life, and those experiences changed her perspective on a hotly debated literary topic: trigger warnings. She talks with Anne about that shift, moving beyond bedtime reading, covert audiobook operations, and how mystery novels could save your local bookstore...  Content warning — in this episode, KJ and Anne talk about cancer, specifically breast cancer. It’s not the whole episode, and the conversation doesn’t go into detail, but we want you to be aware before diving in. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/240 Anne had the pleasure of joining KJ and her cohost Jess Lahey recently on their podcast #AmWriting KJ’s new novel The Chicken Sisters comes out on July 28. KJ's website: kjdellantonia.com Readers, right now our Patreon community is a veritable celebration of summer reading. We’ve shared some wonderful bonus episodes recently, on topics like fantastic new romance novels, absorbing summer nonfiction, and our publicly-available episode covering spectacular books by Black authors. Our latest bonus episode is a casual home library chat with Anne and her husband Will about what summer reading is like for each of them this year. Become a patron now to gain access to a huge archive of bonus episodes, and join Brenna and Anne during our upcoming livestream on July 2nd: patreon.com/whatshouldireadnext Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris Abi Zeid is counting down the days before a big life event that will significantly alter his reading life. But for a few more weeks he still has precious reading hours. All he needs is his next read–and listeners, he has one huge requirement. He needs a book with a big, beefy, juicy plot. Complicated characters are great, but they need to go somewhere and do something for Chris to be satisfied. Anne's challenge today is finding the three perfect titles that will carry Chris toward his next big adventure. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/239 Follow Chris on Instagram @chrisabzz. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest Lamar Giles credits his love of reading to his mom who was always willing to buy him a book. Today Anne and Lamar chat about children’s books, horror novelist Stephen King, great novels where the setting is a character in its own right, and the importance of mirrors on the bookshelf. This episode was recorded and aired last year as Episode 186: Finding the book that feels like it was written just for you. This is the perfect listen for early summer, when you might have young readers at home looking for something to keep them busy. But it’s also a great time to revisit this one as we also have a deep conversation about We Need Diverse Books the non-profit of which Lamar’s a founding member, and the important work that’s still to be done in the literary world. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/238 In this episode, Lamar talks about juggling two book releases in 2019. He’s back at it again this year with another 2 releases: Not So Pure And Simple, a YA book came out in January and The Last Mirror on the Left a sequel to last year’s middle grade novel The Last Last-Day-of-Summer is due out in October. You can discover more about Lamar’s books at www.lamargiles.com, follow him on Twitter @LRGiles. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Elyssa Gould is an academic librarian and “recovering English major”, whose goal is to get caught up on her own backlist while she’s separated from her natural habitat, the library. Today, Anne shuffles around Elyssa’s 100 or so unread books into a few smaller stacks, for a DIY literature "curriculum" that should keep her busy at home for as long as necessary.  Click over to the podcast website for the transcript and full list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/237 You can admire Elyssa's handcrafts at Instagram.com/elyssamakes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s a weird time to be in the market for a new book. When it’s safer to stay home, and many libraries and bookstores have temporarily shut their doors to the public, what’s a reader to do… but turn to their home bookshelves! Your TBR shelf's time has COME!  Today Annd chats with Karla Osorno, a WSIRN listener whose 600+ precious unread books have been weighing her reading life down. Not only is Karla searching for her next read in these stacks, but she wants to lighten the mental load by eliminating the titles that just aren’t right for her. You’ll come away from today’s episode with questions and ideas you can apply to your own book collections. Everyone at WSIRN HQ hopes you are well, and that your bookshelves are a source of solace when the going gets tough.  Click over to the podcast website for the transcript and full list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/236 You can connect with Karla on her website KarlaOsorno.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we continue our celebration of Summer reading with Zibby Owens, host of the podcast Moms Don’t Have Time To Read Books. Anne and Zibby are chatting about what they’re excited to read this Summer, whether those books are brand new or quite old. Get ready for a slew of summer-ready non-fiction recommendations for your TBR.  Click over to the podcast website for the transcript and full list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/235 You can visit Zibby at ZibbyOwens.com, and listen to Anne's episode of Moms Don’t Have Time to Read Books here: https://zibbyowens.podbean.com/e/anne-bogel-dont-overthink-it Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, summer reading is so close you can almost taste it. Anne has been investigating upcoming summer releases for months now, on the lookout for new and notable titles that should be on your summer reading list. Prepping for the Summer Reading Guide brings up an important question — what makes a book a “summer read”? What’s the perfect balance of frothy to grounded, fun to thought-provoking, or relatable to rich-people-problems? Today we've brought in author Jennifer Weiner, proud author of several quintessential summer reads, to discuss her criteria for a great poolside book, the upside-down and backwards season the publishing world is about to have, and her appropriately-titled new book Big Summer.  Click over to the podcast website for the transcript and full list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/234  You can learn more about Jen’s books at jenniferweiner.com, and keep up with her on Instagram @jenniferweinerwrites and on Twitter @jenniferweiner. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anne chats with education navigator Hanan Al-Zubaidy about literacy in the justice system, and how her work with incarcerated students has been affected by social distancing. Hanan came to WSIRN looking for an escapist reading experience, but she didn’t mean happy endings and rainbows. She escapes her day to day life by submerging herself in someone else’s complex, difficult world (fiction or non!) If you read lists of ‘escapist fiction’ that’s full of peppy romance and thrilling action thinking “ehhh that won’t do it for me,” maybe you’ll find what you’ve been looking for in Anne's picks for Hanan today. Happy reading! Click over to the podcast website for the transcript and full list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/233 You can follow Hanan's reading life on Instagram @hanansbookshelf: https://www.instagram.com/hanansbookshelf Readers, the ninth annual Modern Mrs Darcy Summer Reading Guide comes out next week! The Summer Reading Guide is similar to WSIRN–it's about helping you cut down ALL of the new titles to the a manageable number and hopefully helping you decide on a winner.  Before the guide is officially released Anne and Brenna are doing a live video event with members of our Patreon community. I'll give you a preview of all of the books and what excites me about them. The Summer Reading Guide Unboxing takes place May 12th at both noon and 7pm eastern (we're doing it twice to make it easier for you to attend). This is one of the events our community looks forward to the most. The bookish enthusiasm is off the charts. If you’ve ever wondered about joining our readerly community over on Patreon this is the time. Go to Patreon to learn more about the unboxing event and even watch the video replay of last year’s unboxing. Then sign up and join us on May 12th.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anne is joined by Gaithersburg, Maryland mayor Jud Ashman to give you an insiders’ look at what goes into the planning and establishment of those community book events. At the time of recording, they were still crossing their fingers that they’d get to meet in person at the Gaithersburg Book Festival. Between then and now, that event has been canceled due to COVID-19. (There will be some online programming, so watch the website for more information if you're intrigued.) We're also digging into Jud's eclectic personal reading life, from westerns to middle grade fiction to historical nonfiction, to a book he describes as JAW DROPPINGLY GOOD… and Anne recommends 3 books to him like a human, not an algorithm. That’s a joke, but also a totally real concern when literary matchmaking. Listen in to hear Anne explain the difference in the episode.  Click over to the podcast website for the transcript and full list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/232 Readers, we send an email every Tuesday with 3 bookish things I love, 1 thing I don’t, and what I’m reading now. If you want fun, informative, and delightful links to all things books and reading with a little dose of my personal reading habits then sign up for the weekly newsletter. And be sure to do that now because in 2 weeks we’re sending all subscribers my ninth annual Summer Reading Guide. This is THE answer to what you should read next this summer. So sign up now. -Anne Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, Anne's exploring a genre that’s on the rise these days... ecofiction! Reader Katy Yocom is constantly on the hunt for absorbing novels with plots that not only incorporate the natural world, but ones in which the story absolutely depends upon it. Anne's challenge today is to pick 3 well-written titles for Katy that paint a lush portrait of natural life without losing that “page turning” appeal.  Click over to the podcast website for the transcript and full list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/231 You can read more about Katy’s book Three Ways to Disappear at KatyYocom.com and follow her on Instagram @katyyocom1 Readers, this is an exciting time of year at WSIRN: Summer Reading Guide season is almost here! Our email subscribers get the our ninth (!!!) annual guide when it comes out, but Patreon supporters get it first. They're invited to join us for our live “unboxing” on May 12. This year we're offering two times to make it easier for you to attend live. Our patrons also get the guide that day, two days before it's publicly available. If you’ve ever wondered about joining our readerly community over on Patreon this is the perfect time. Visit patreon.com/whatshouldireadnext now to sign up. We’d love to see you there. -Anne Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A note from Anne — I’ve been soooo looking forward to sharing today’s episode with you. Today we’re sharing the live audio from my book tour stop at the Strand in New York City. This evening in their gorgeous rare books room was MAGICAL. The room was packed with avid readers (and quite a few What Should I Read Next alums, which is what we like to call our past guests). It couldn't have been a better night, and I am so happy and thankful that now you get to listen in in today's episode. But. I can't talk about that night—or this episode—without telling you that sharing it feels bittersweet. This was my second—and last, for now—book tour stop for Don't Overthink It and one of the Strand's last events before closing their doors due to covid-19. My heart goes out to the Strand, its employees, and all of New York City. I hope to see you all again soon. For the time being, it's a solace to be able to bring you the live audio from that night at the Strand. This episode is ALL ABOUT What Should I Read Next; I’m reflecting on the show in a way that I really haven’t done publicly. I hope you find it interesting, illuminating, and entertaining. In the next segment I’m joined by a Strand bookseller to do some on-the-fly literary matchmaking for our live audience. Let us know how we did in the comments at: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/230 Visit The Strand online at www.strandbooks.com, and follow their gorgeous Instagram account @strandbookstore. More What Should I Read Next Live: As Anne mentions in this episode we have a special One Great Book style bonus episode that's available to everyone over on our Patreon page. Anyone can listen to that here. But now would also be a great time to become a Patreon supporter. This week we're having our quarterly live stream with Patreon supporters. Join us as we chat about what's happening behind the scenes, what we're reading now, and give recommendations for what some of you should read next. We'll do another live event next month as we kick off summer reading season with the Summer Reading Guide Unboxing. This is the most fun event we do all year. We hope you will join us now over on Patreon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why do some books with heavy topics leave you feeling uncomfortable, while other books tackling difficult subject matter make you feel understood and connected to humankind? Today, guest Mandy Lambert and host Anne Bogel pick apart the ingredients of Mandy's favorite and least favorite books to discover the subtle difference between a hard book that pays off in the end, and a hard book that’s just… hard. Click over to the podcast website for the transcript and full list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/229 You can hear more from Mandy on her blog: thisbrightlife.home.blog Bonus episodes for you: Readers, it is a difficult and confusing time. So this past week, we released two bonus episodes on Patreon to meet you where you are, plus some special events. The first bonus episode is available to everyone. It's a book recommendation that has helped Anne during times of great loss and grief, and we think a lot of readers could use it in their life right now. Give it a listen at patreon.com/whatshouldireadnext/posts, and feel free to share it with readers and other loved ones in your life. Second, a patron-exlusive episode recommending 5 happy, hopeful reads, something many of you have written in to tell us you need right now. You can find this exclusive episode at patreon.com/whatshouldireadnext/posts, along with 31 other bonus episodes and livestream replays! Finally, if you are looking for bookish community during an isolated time, now is a wonderful time to check out everything happening in our Patreon community. We are holding our quarterly Spring livestream on April 9th, which is a community get-together with Anne and Brenna to chat about what we've been reading off our home bookshelves, and share recommendations with other readers. We hope you can will join us! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So, you hate the book you’re reading. Or maybe you just feel blah about the book you’re reading. Or maybe the book you’re reading is good, but a different book on your shelf just looks so appealing, and you can’t help reaching for it… suddenly, you have a stack of 5 half-read books on your nightstand, and you’re still browsing the library catalog for something new. If you relate to any of those scenarios, today’s episode is for you. Guest Jamie Wright is a self-proclaimed “book quitter”, and she’s asked for Anne's help turning things around.  Click over to the podcast website for the transcript and full list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/228 Readers, whether you are looking for an escape from the news or for something to entertain kids who are suddenly at home we, have Spotify playlists of back episodes of What Should I Read Next for all your binging, relaxing, or bibliotherapying needs. Find them all at https://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/spotify. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Guest Sterling Hardaway values efficiency and growth in his reading life, which has led him to a hefty serving of nonfiction to learn new exciting things, fiction that sidesteps predictable tropes to deliver a truly unique reading experience, and seeking out authors whose perspectives have been historically underrepresented. Anne's challenge today is recommending 3 books that won’t tread the same old ground, and offer him something new.  Click over to the podcast website for the transcript and full list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/227 You can keep up with what Sterling reads next on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ster724 Readers you know what we do here. Each week Anne helps a guest (and hopefully some of you) choose your next read. We hope this week you’re planning on making your next read Anne's new book Don’t Overthink It–which is out now! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As audiobooks have become more available and more popular over the years, they’ve become a bigger part so many of your daily routines. Today Anne chats with everyday expert Leanne Hunt about the history of audiobooks and her decades-long connection with the format. Leanne came looking for book recommendations that explore the inner life of characters, and lush sensory descriptions of setting and expression, so pull out those TBR lists if you are ready to be truly transported. Click over to the podcast website for the transcript and full list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/226 You can learn more about Leanne’s life and writing at blindhorsewoman.blogspot.com.  Readers you know what we do here. Each week Anne helps a guest (and hopefully some of you) choose your next read. We hope this week you’re planning on making your next read Anne's new book Don’t Overthink It–which is out now! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're always hearing from listeners about connections made either on the show or in the blog or instagram comment sections. Today’s guest Elizabeth Barnhill had one of these delightful stories to share. She popped into Anne's DMs recently to say “Anne, I wanted to let you know that you are a bookstore matchmaker. I was listening to your show 2 years ago when you interviewed Alison Frenzel about opening up Fabled bookshop in my hometown…”  We'll can let Elizabeth and Alison share the rest of that story, as they both join Anne to chat about what it’s been like to open an indie in Waco, TX. Then Anne is setting Elizabeth up with 3 titles to read between all the advanced readers copies that she reads for a living now.  You can meet Anne at Fabled Bookshop on Tuesday March 24! Visit our events page to get tickets and get the lowdown on all Anne's spring travels. Click over to the podcast website for the transcript and full list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/225 You can follow Elizabeth on Instagram @wacoreads , and ogle the gorgeous Fabled bookshop @fabledbookshop. Visit Fabledbookshop.com to plan your own trip! Readers you know what we do here. Each week Anne helps a guest (and hopefully some of you) choose your next read. We hope this week you’re planning on making your next read Anne's new book Don’t Overthink It–which is out March 3rd! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Like many readers, today’s guest Lacey Yong is creative. But her writing hobby is beginning to clash with her book selections, so she came to WSIRN with the question “how do I pick books that inspire me to write, without being too influenced by authors who write in my genre?” It’s a tricky problem, but one we can work through. Lacey is also ready to tackle the titles on what her husband jokingly calls her “bookshelf of shame.” Longtime listeners, you know Anne has thoughts about that phrasing... Click over to the podcast website for the transcript and full list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/224 Connect with Lacey Yong on Instagram @lacey.yong! Readers you know what we do here. Each week I help a guest, and hopefully some of you choose your next read. Well I hope this week you’re planning on making your next read my new book Don’t Overthink It. Don’t Overthink It comes out March 3rd so right now you still have a chance to preorder yourself a copy and snag the bonuses we’ve put together for all those who preorder here.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anne has recommended books in translation to many guests in the past, but this week we’re venturing away from reading in English, with Parisian reader Florence Breuvart. Because she reads in both French and English, Florence often gets to choose between reading a work in translation, or reading an author’s words in their original language. Today, Anne's challenge is recommending Florence’s next reads in both languages. Anne and Florence also discuss a very precious personal book collection, what makes a classic a classic, and her ongoing quest to buy fewer books. Click over to the podcast website for the transcript and full list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/223 Connect with Florence on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shouldireadit Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we listen in on Anne's recent event in Huntsville, Alabama in collaboration with Snail On the Wall and the Rocket City Moms Book Club. Shannan Malone hosts a conversation about Anne's new book, Don’t Overthink It, and Anne holds a LIVE literary matchmaking session with Erin, a reader from the event audience who loves books about the simple life. We hope you enjoy hearing what WSIRN is like — live and off the cuff. Click over to the podcast website for the transcript and full list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/222 Connect with Shannan on Instagram. Connect with Erin on Instagram. Learn more about The Snail on the Wall: website | Instagram Learn more about Rocket City Mom: website | Facebook Our next live stream with our Patreon supporters is this week! Join Anne and Brenna and ask them anything live and off the cuff just like today's episode. The livestream is February 13th, so become a supporter on Patreon and start thinking up your question. Read more about this event here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Amy Rohn joins Anne to talk about literal literary matchmaking, the ups and downs of her life as a reader in search of real-life romance. We’re exploring what she looks for in a partner, whether they’re a reader or not, and truly baffling stories from her attempts at talking to men on dating apps about books.  Plus, discussing Amy's newfound love affair with nonfiction after a lifetime of sticking to fantastical fiction, bookstore architecture, stylish prose, the book she had a huge grudge against in middle school. Of course, Anne plays matchmaker herself, recommending three titles Amy may enjoy reading next! Click over to the podcast website for the transcript and full list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/221 Give yourself the gift of more What Should I Read Next and become a supporter at Patreon.com/whatshouldireadnext! Supporters get bonus episodes, behind the scenes looks at how the podcasts are made, and and invites to our quarterly ask us anything live events. The next live stream is February 13th, so become a supporter on Patreon and start thinking up your question. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Every week, we promise to give you the information you need to choose your next read. Sometimes, that means information about a specific title (like the premise, interesting backstory, or a sense of the atmosphere.) But other times, the information you need is only discovered through thoughtful reflection on your reading patterns, and developing personalized adjustments. Today’s guest Erin Schlesener spent a looooong time experimenting before she found a reading routine that fit her needs. Once she had the how locked in, the question shifted to what she should read. Those of you who consider yourselves “slow” readers, you know this struggle — you know you’ll only get through about a dozen books this year, how do you narrow them down to what will be most enjoyable to you? Well, we're tackling that problem today, and Anne is recommending 3 titles to Erin that won’t frustrate or disappoint.  Click over to the podcast website for the transcript and full list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/220 Give yourself the gift of more What Should I Read Next andbecome a supporter atPatreon.com/whatshouldireadnext! Supporters get bonus episodes, behind the scenes looks at how the podcasts are made, and and invites to our quarterly ask us anything live events. The next live stream is February 5th, so become a supporter on Patreon and start thinking up your question. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You might remember way back in Ep 60, guest Mel Joulwan and I talked about her love for books with a "strong sense of place". Mel realized she loves to travel in her literary life, and in the years since we chatted on WSIRN she’s made that the priority in big, delightful ways, along with her husband Dave Humphries. Mel and Dave are joining us today to chat about their reading journey together, fulfilling their long-time dream to move across the Atlantic, and their new destination-reading podcast aptly named Strong Sense of Place. Plus, they're recommending 3 books with great atmosphere they think I'll enjoy. Click over to the podcast website for the transcript and full list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/219 Hear more about Mel and Dave's new project Strong Sense of Place on their podcast that debuted this week, or via their website, Instagram, and Twitter! Readers, on today’s episode we’re talking about travel reading. Well I have my own travel coming up and I want to make sure you’re in the loop. My book tour for Don’t Overthink It is booked. I’m going to wonderful bookstores I’ve been to in the past and I’m excited to say we have great events planned at new and new-to-me stores and cities, including New York City, Milwaukee, and Madison CT. Don’t Overthink It is out March 3rd and in-person events start that week. Get the details at modernmrsdarcy.com/events. I hope to see you live and in person at one of these book tour stops this spring! Give yourself the gift of more What Should I Read Next and become a supporter on Patreon! Supporters get bonus episodes, behind the scenes looks at how the podcasts are made, and opportunities to help us make the show–like today's title which was chosen by our Patreon supporters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s always fun to read through your guest applications. You fill our inbox with stories, goals, hilarity, and so much heart. One particularly memorable application didn’t come from today’s guest Anna Mittler — it came from one of her best friends, Charlotta, asking if we could make WSIRN a part of Anna’s upcoming bachelorette party. It took a full year to stitch the pieces together and get this episode to your ears, and we hope you love Anna’s story as much as we loved making it happen.  Click over to the podcast website for the transcript and full list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/218 Give yourself the gift of more What Should I Read Next and become a supporter on Patreon! Supporters get bonus episodes, behind the scenes looks at how the podcasts are made, and livestreams with Anne and WSIRN's producer, Brenna. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Around here we believe that when you improve your reading life, it does good things for the rest of your life. Today’s guest Pamela Hernandez has found creative ways to pull together reading goals and fitness goals in her personal training business. Pamela loves to read about women who mirror herself and her clients–seasoned female characters who live life on their terms, work to make the best of their life circumstances, and thrive. Today Anne recommending 3 books that fit the bill, plus a self-help book that hopefully won’t leave Pamela shaking her head in disappointment.  Click over to the podcast website for the transcript and full list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/217 You can follow Pamela on Instagram @thrivefit, and hear more from her on her podcast Fit in 417, where book segments are part of the regular rotation.  Give yourself the gift of more What Should I Read Next and become a supporter on Patreon! Supporters get bonus episodes, behind the scenes looks at how the podcasts are made, and livestreams with Anne and WSIRN's producer, Brenna. Next week we'll be livestreaming a Winter Book Preview so become a supporter today. Thanks to today's sponsors: Whatever you’re hoping to accomplish or become in 2020 The Great Courses Plus has you covered. This online learning service offers thousands of lectures that can help you professionally or personally. WSIRN listeners can get 3 months of unlimited access for just $30 at TheGreatCoursesPlus.com/READNEXT! Rothy’s creates stylish, comfortable, and washable shoes for women and girls. Rothy’s are seamlessly knit using thread made from plastic water bottles, so they're sustainable and there's zero break-in period in these shoes! Rothy’s always come with free shipping and free returns and exchanges–no risk, no worries. Visit Rothys.com/READNEXT to give them a try! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The new year is here and that means another milestone is just around the corner. Anne's newest book Don't Overthink It: Make Easier Decisions, Stop Second-Guessing, and Bring More Joy Into Your Life comes out on March 3rd. In celebration and anticipation on today's episode Anne is sharing chapter 13 Small Shifts Toward Simple Abundance. Anne chose this chapter because there's a funny story in here that inspired the beautiful cover design AND because while most people are familiar with the negative aspects of overthinking—worry, rumination, second-guessing–in the book she also wanted to talk about setting overthinking aside in order to bring more peace, joy, and love into our lives. Overthinkers too often think themselves out of life’s simple pleasures, but she wanted to examine how to smartly think our way into them. This chapter is a joy and we can't wait to share it with you. Preorder bonuses: Companion Don’t Overthink It course we created to complement the book. Full of great strategies and stories you can put to work in your own life right away. The book may not come out till March, but preorderers will get this course as soon as mid-January.  Free audiobook version of Don’t Overthink It. Free ebook edition of my book I’d Rather Be Reading.  An invitation to join my launch team, which is gonna be a blast, AND participants get to read Don’t Overthink It early.   Pre-order your copy now at your local indie, Barnes and Noble, or Amazon. Or for a signed copy order from my local store, Carmichael's, and to get the book and a box full of beautiful goodies check out the Page 1 Don't Overthink It bundle. And when you preorder, save your receipt! You’ll need it to claim your bonuses. After you preorder, go to overthinkbook.com to enter your information and claim your bonuses.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we’re revisiting a topic near and dear to our hearts here at WSIRN HQ, and a PERFECT conversation for this time of the year, when the best-of lists start rolling out and everyone is gearing up for a new calendar year of reading. Anne chatted with 14 different readers about how they track their books, and we hope their perspectives will give you some new ideas to start your 2020 reading year strong!  Click over to the podcast website for the transcript and photos of some tracking methods mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/215 Sign up for the Reading Challenge at ModernMrsDarcy.com/CHALLENGE and get your own MMD Reading Journal! Thanks to our sponsors: ThirdLove makes great fitting bras that real women love—because a good-fitting bra makes everything you put on your body look better. WSIRN listeners can head over to ThirdLove.com/READNEXT for 15% off! Ritual’s Essentials have the nutrients most of us don’t get enough of from food—all in their clean, absorbable forms. WSIRN listeners can visit Ritual.com/READNEXT for 10% off during your first three months! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today you get to hear from a guest who is very near and dear to the show, Anne's husband Will. Will has been involved with What Should I Read Next since BEFORE the beginning of the show. First he was the sounding board, then he was the trial guest, then he dropped into your feed for the first time in episode 61—and if you haven’t listened to that yet, start downloading it while you listen to this. But none of that is why we had him back on the show. Will engineered his best reading year to date and when Anne mentioned this people began begging her to bring him back on the show. This is such a fun conversation—Anne and Will talk about finding your own “reading lane,” reading journals and revisiting star ratings, and the very specific type of book Will can’t help picking up but is often disappointed in. I mention rethinking star ratings in this episode. Since we recorded, I shared my updated thoughts here: https://modernmrsdarcy.com/star-ratings/ Click over to the podcast website for the transcript and full list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/214 Give yourself the gift of more What Should I Read Next and become a supporter on Patreon! Supporters get bonus episodes, behind the scenes looks at how the podcasts are made, and livestreams with Anne and WSIRN's producer, Brenna. The next livestream happens early January so become a supporter today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anne chats with reader and children’s book writer Kate DiCamillo about the books that inspired her to dream up stories, the hopeful work of writing for children, and what she learns from readers about her own books. She has so much to share about the value of friendship with other people who work differently than you do, and her advice is applicable whether you’re an aspiring author or simply a reader looking to build a bookish community in your own personal life.  Click over to the podcast website for the transcript and full list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/213 Give yourself the gift of more What Should I Read Next and become a supporter on Patreon! Supporters get bonus episodes, behind the scenes looks at how the podcasts are made, and livestreams with Anne and WSIRN's producer, Brenna. You can find Kate on Facebook and on Twitter @KateDiCamillo. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hopefully you haven’t put that wrapping paper away yet… because today we’re bringing you even MORE bookish gift-giving ideas! This episode is specially geared toward the people many WSIRN listeners consider the hardest to buy for — your nonfiction readers, true crime lovers, political thriller fanatics, and doorstop history book deep-divers. Sometimes these are called “dad books” or “dude books”, and our inbox was definitely FULL of people desperate for recommendations for their dads, brothers, and grandfathers… but genre knows no gender, and around here the expert we trust for nonfiction, crime, and intrigue is none other than Traci Thomas from The Stacks podcast! Click over to the podcast website for the transcript and full list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/212 Give yourself the gift of more What Should I Read Next and become a supporter on Patreon! Supporters get bonus episodes, behind the scenes looks at how the podcasts are made, and livestreams with Anne and WSIRN's producer, Brenna. Hear more of Tracy at The Stacks Podcast, and find her on Twitter @stackspodcast and Instagram @thestackspod. And be sure to check out The Stacks' book drive to support Rocketship Delta Prep.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anne has a delightful & deep conversation with guest Sarah Bessey about writing personal nonfiction, and what might spur an author to write a book unlike anything they’ve written in the past. Last week, Anne talked about books can expand hearts and minds, and Sarah has so much to share with about what books have shifted her perspectives for the better. CanLit lovers rejoice — they're also touching on the books everyone is talking about in Canada! Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/211 To give yourself the gift of more What Should I Read Next become a supporter on Patreon! Supporters get bonus episodes, behind the scenes looks at how the podcasts are made, and livestreams with Anne and WSIRN's producer, Brenna. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Break out the wrapping paper, because our yearly WSIRN holiday recommendation episode is here! Listeners wrote and called in to let us know who they wanted to give the gift of reading to this Winter, and today, Anne is joined by Holland Saltsman of The Novel Neighbor in St Louis to recommend the perfect titles for your distractable teens and tweens, reluctant-reader spouses, impossible-to-buy-for parents, and that friend who seems to have already read everything. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/210 NOTE FROM ANNE: Here's a dissenting opinion on Malcolm Gladwell's newest from Traci Thomas of The Stacks Podcast. I recommended this to Jamie in episode 209 but really wish I had seen this post first and would have to say Traci changed my mind. To give yourself the gift of more What Should I Read Next become a supporter on Patreon! Supporters get bonus episodes, behind the scenes looks at how the podcasts are made, and livestreams with Anne and WSIRN's producer, Brenna. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest is Jamie Freeman, a reader who was led to audiobooks by her favorite true crime podcasts… and has since made serious space in her life to read with her earbuds in.  Anne and Jamie chat about spine-tingly crime nonfiction, historical romance, their favorite audiobook narrators, and tackle a frequently asked question: how to get into an audiobook when you’re finding it hard to focus.  Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/209 You can find Jamie on Instagram @jamie.of.all.trades If you want more What Should I Read Next become a supporter on Patreon! Supporters get bonus episodes, behind the scenes looks at how the podcasts are made, and livestreams with Anne and WSIRN's producer, Brenna. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Charlie Lovett joins Anne to discuss the enduring power of not only stories but the books themselves, how books connect people of all ages, and of all times, how we can preserve literature for future generations, the joy of a book as a physical object, the art of literary forgery, marginalia, symbolism, and much much more. Anne met Charlie along with 150 other readers at the ever-charming bookstore Bookmarks NC in Winston-Salem, North Carolina as part of an event for the Modern Mrs Darcy Book Club, where members learn to read better, together, and one of the many things we do is read a core selection together every month, and then meet on video to discuss it at the end of the month, often with the author. Our October selection was Charlie’s novel The Bookman’s Tale*, and not only did Charlie join us, but for the first time ever, we got to have our author chat in person. *Don't worry, this conversation is spoiler-free. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/208 If you want more What Should I Read Next become a supporter on Patreon! Supporters get bonus episodes, behind the scenes looks at how the podcasts are made, and livestreams with Anne and WSIRN's producer, Brenna. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week's guest is Jennifer Pai, a reader with a particular soft spot for anything that could might be called spooky. Whether it’s thrilling suspense, witchy fantasy, or outright horror, she’s here for it. Anne and Jennifer chat about atmospheric reads, sleeper hits, gleefully enjoying books other people hate, and the perfect October reads to pair with a comfy blanket and mug of hot cider.  Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/207 If you want more What Should I Read Next become a supporter on Patreon! Supporters get bonus episodes, behind the scenes looks at how the podcasts are made, and livestreams with Anne and WSIRN's producer, Brenna. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jerrell Everett is serious about creating her ideal reading life. When Jerrell had kids and found herself picking up books less and less, she took action to maintain her reading life by enforcing a routine. And when she decided it was time to branch out from her comfort zone of nonfiction and introduce more novels into her rotation, she took action again… by reaching out to WSIRN for help.  Today, Jerrell and Anne chat about parenthood, complex family stories, the tricky task of avoiding book hangovers, and much more. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/206 You can connect with Jerrell on Instagram @jerrelleverett If you want more What Should I Read Next become a supporter on Patreon! We're sharing the full interviews we did with the past guests featured in our special 200th episode. Supporters also get bonus episodes of One Great Book, behind the scenes looks at how the podcasts are made, AND occasionally they get to save the day like last week's guest Addie who jumped in when we had a scheduling issue and needed to record immediately! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, sometimes podcasting doesn’t go as planned. Schedules conflict, last-minute emergencies strike, the flu sneaks up on us, Anne loses her voice during pollen season… and any of those situations can end with a guest cancelling their recording at the last-minute. That happened recently here at What Should I Read Next HQ, and we needed someone to record on short notice, RIGHT AWAY, to avoid a hole in our release schedule. Luckily there was an obvious answer — tapping into our Patreon community. We asked who would be available to record within 48 hours. Enter Addie Yoder, self-described “farm wife”, who needed book recommendations to fill her time during harvest season. We couldn’t imagine a more fall-appropriate guest!  Today, Addie and Anne chat about libraries that aren’t free, books that lend us a little distance from real life when we need it, and the best time of year for a happily-ever-after. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/205 You can follow Addie’s farm and reading life on Instagram @addie.yoder If you want more What Should I Read Next become a supporter on Patreon! We're sharing the full interviews we did with the past guests featured in our special 200th episode. Supporters also get bonus episodes of One Great Book, behind the scenes looks at how the podcasts are made, AND occasionally they get to save the day! Join Addie and all of the other delightful readers over on Patreon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Anne talks books with David Krohse, an Iowa reader who’s woven a love of literature into all aspects of his life — the waiting room of his chiropractic practice, the bar with a group friends, and quality time spent with his wife. David loves larger than life nonfiction, especially if it reads like an intense thriller, so Anne is hooking him up with exactly that.  Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/204 You can join David's Inspired Book and Brew Crew on Facebook! If you want more What Should I Read Next become a supporter on Patreon! We're sharing the full interviews we did with the past guests featured in our special 200th episode. Supporters also get bonus episodes of One Great Book, behind the scenes looks at how the podcasts are made, and invites to special events like our Fall Book Preview! More fun book recommendations happen on our Instagram feed where we use the hashtag #readerrecs to gather your recommendations for a reader who's looking for a little literary inspiration. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode, Anne talks with Emily Carter about a genre they both used to think they were too smart to be reading. When Emily entered a season when she was busy and stressed, and she discovered that the genre she’d once categorically dismissed was full of books that were exactly what her lackluster reading life needed. Fellow repentant "book snobs" will relate to this conversation about what we miss out on as readers when we seal ourselves off from whole sections of the bookstore, how our misperceptions can be corrected with the help of our fellow readers, and how we can take smart chances on books outside our readerly comfort zones.  Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/203 You can connect with Emily on her blog: https://thesecondarrowblog.wordpress.com If you want more What Should I Read Next become a supporter on Patreon! We're sharing the full interviews we did with the past guests featured in our special 200th episode. Supporters also get bonus episodes of One Great Book, behind the scenes looks at how the podcasts are made, and invites to special events like our Fall Book Preview! More fun book recommendations happen on our Instagram feed where we use the hashtag #readerrecs to gather your recommendations for a reader who's looking for a little literary inspiration. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's double-feature, Anne chats books with sisters Mia & Micah. But unlike most of our episodes with multiple guests, they aren’t looking to find titles they’ll enjoy together. Mia & Micah already read the same books frequently, so we’re looking to individualize their reading lives with totally separate recommendations.  Mia is looking to introduce a little romance to her bookshelves… without leaving her comfort zone of action and adventure behind. Meanwhile Micah battles a classic middle-sibling problem... all her books end up being hand-me-downs, so she’s looking for a good mystery novel (or better yet, a series) that’s exactly suited to HER taste first and foremost.  Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/202 Get another double feature of What Should I Read Next by becoming a supporter on Patreon at patreon.com/whatshouldireadnext! Right now we're sharing new interviews with past guests to hear if they loved or hated Anne's recommendations and of course, what they are reading now. If you didn't catch our producer Brenna's Instagram takeover during our 200th episode celebration @whatshouldireadnext, be sure to check out the highlights! Her listener Q&A that gives you a fun look at how each episode comes together. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, Brian Eichenberger dives straight into a hotly debated issue, discussing horrible books that taught him and Anne lessons they still think about allllll the time. Brian is the kind of reader who wants to chew on big ideas, follow characters from childhood to old age to see what makes people tick, and who loves big juicy family sagas. But he also has a taste for the unusual, so Anne recommends 3 titles that hopefully hit more than one target. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/201 You can follow Brian on Twitter @beichen22, and check out his podcast Story Guys at wearethestoryguys.com/podcast or anywhere you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's milestone 200th episode, Anne and her producer Brenna catch up with the guests of 8 fan-favorite episodes to see what recommendations were hits, which flopped, and what changed in their reading lives after the show. Some guests approached their bookshelves with fresh eyes, some overcame their genre fears, and some realized that stepping out of their comfort zone just wasn’t what they were interested in — and finally felt at peace with the decision. Thanks for 200 fantastic episodes, we couldn't have done it without you, our wonderful listeners. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books and episodes mentioned in today's episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/200 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The WSIRN intro sounds straightforward enough - Anne chats with a reader about books they love, books they hate, and books they could pick up next. Simple. But long-time listeners know this show was originally supposed to be a tight 20 minutes… and today, each episode is easily twice that long. It turns out, a person’s reading taste reveals a lot about who they are as individuals, and digging into those discussions is worth much more to the WSIRN team than hitting a timestamp. Today’s guest is no stranger to seemingly-mundane belongings that hold deep meaning - Tara Anderson hosts the NPR show 5 Things, where she gets to know people by discussing five items that matter to them. A guest's treasured items might be books, but they might also be a houseplant, a special coat, heirloom knitting needles, even something as practical as a rice cooker. There are no home appliances in this episode, but Anne is investigating what Tara’s 3 favorite titles say about what she wants out of life, and what new books will take her there.  Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/199 Follow Tara on Instagram and Twitter, and make sure to go check out her newest project at musicboxpod.org  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever since Anne visited today’s guest, Annie F. Downs, on her podcast That Sounds Fun a little while ago to talk about Summer Reading, she's been wanting to talk all things books and reading with Annie on What Should I Read Next. It's finally happening - and the conversation is going unexpected places. Anne and Annie are chatting about the author who made Annie a better storyteller, her surprising love for reading what she calls “Dead Men’s writing”, totally fangirling about all the literary good Dolly Parton has done in the world, and Anne recommend a few books she didn’t expect to recommend when the conversation started... Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/198 Learn more about Annie: Website: www.anniefdowns.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/anniefdowns Twitter: twitter.com/anniefdowns Instagram: www.instagram.com/anniefdowns Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest, Amelia Mattingly, went through a gut-wrenching experience that ripped her book collection away from her – shelves and all – along with countless other precious signifiers of home. As a result of this experience, the books she craves are different now, and every book purchase feels weighty. Anne is connecting Amelia with three books that will hopefully take some of that heaviness off her shoulders and let her choose a different world to escape into, just for a few hours.  CONTENT WARNING: Amelia tells her story of surviving an enormous natural disaster in heartbreaking detail, and it might be too much for anxious or sensitive listeners. If you need to skip the detailed descriptions, our book discussion starts about 20 minutes in, and mentions of the traumatic events are less detailed after that point.  Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/197 You can find information about the Paradise, CA mobile clinic, MedSpire, at http://www.medspire.org, and contribute a tax-deductible donation at http://www.medspire.org/donate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today you’ll get to know Anudeep Reddy, a reader who grew up in a competitive school environment where engaging books were in short supply, so he had to get creative with his reading from a young age. He’s an imaginative reader who appreciates the escapist quality of a good novel, but has struggled lately to find books that call out for him to live between their pages.  Fantastic escapist reading can be found in any genre, so today Anne recommends three books to Anudeep that you’d find on completely different bookstore shelves. They're also exploring books that combine adventure and philosophy stories, streamlining reading decisions, and what it’s like to date a librarian. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/196 Catch up on all of the episodes in Volume II of One Great Book, Anne's short-form podcast where she recommends just one great book in 10 minutes or less. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest Mary Laura Philpott is an essayist, bookseller, and a big fan of memoirs of people living “everyday lives”. She certainly has experience with an interesting “everyday life” as a Book Enthusiast at Large—yes, that is her job title—for Parnassus Books in Nashville. Anne and Mary Laura chat about the reading and writing life, working through her readerly guilt of hating beloved childhood classics, and the delight of a book flight (or as Mary Laura would say, "reading symphonies"). Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/195 Connect with Mary Laura: Website | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook Catch up on all of the episodes in Volume II of OGB my short-form podcast where we explore just one great book in 10 minutes or less. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For Nicole Mattke, a clear and driving plot isn’t the most important thing. She loves beautiful, introspective writing that makes her think about everyday emotions. She also spent a year roaming a hotel, doing a job that sounds like it belongs in the pages of a novel. Today Nicole shares some of the stories she heard during her time there, and the literary community-building project she started and has continued to this day. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/194 Follow Nicole and her sister's reading lives on Instagram @bibliosisters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Keren Form is a self-professed mega nerd who loves everything from LOTR, and board games, and epic science fiction. Today, Keren and Anne chat about what it really means to be a nerd, and how her wholehearted enthusiasm has sent her on many life-enriching adventures. If you hear “science fiction” or “fantasy” and think “nope, not for me,” you might still find something to love in this episode — Anne's recommendations could just as easily be recommendations of a history lover, or a crime drama fanatic, or a romance-loving YA fan.  Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/193 You can follow Keren’s travels and gaming enthusiasm on Instagram. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rita and Xoe Amer are a mother-daughter duo who have bonded over books since Xoe was young. She’s all grown up now, but the shared love of reading remains. Today Anne, Rita & Xoe discuss their reading and writing roots, hidden literary gems from the past, and the great conversations that come from bad books.   Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/192 You can check out Rita and Xoe's mother-daughter podcast, Foibles, at foibles.podbean.com or by searching "Foibles" on your favorite podcast app. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever finished a GREAT book, then realized it left behind a hole no other book will ever be able to fill? Today’s guest is Andy Serrato, a reader who fell into the arms of a mega-popular series with a welcoming fandom and enough pages to smother yourself in… and ever since, she’s struggled to break her obsession and pick up new books in different genres. Anne's doing her best to get to the core of what delights Andy about this series, and open a portal to other reading worlds that will be just as satisfying in new and exciting ways.  Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/191 You can find Andy on Instagram @Andyserratom. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest has reached a crossroads in her reading life, and she’s come to Anne looking for a jump start for this new season. Beth Wallen describes herself as a lifelong learner, and she’s about to have more time open up in her schedule to challenge herself, learn new things, and dive deeper into topics that already fascinate her. This is truly a precious opportunity, and Beth really has the guts to go against the grain of her usual reading taste, which makes for interesting and exciting literary matchmaking! Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/190 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guests Brenna Sherrill & Ryan Pait describe themselves as platonic soulmates, book-loving best friends who grew up together, went to school together, read together (sometimes out loud!) and even live together. Today Anne, Brenna, and Ryan chat about a truly magical college class, Ryan’s most embarrassing moment meeting a literary icon, the book Ann Patchett thinks EVERYONE should read, and of course Anne recommends three books she think they’ll enjoy reading together and discussing to death, because that’s their style. Becoming a WSIRN patron means LOADS of additional audio content, including weekly bonus episodes of One Great Book, monthly behind-the-scenes episodes, audio of certain live events, like Anne's recent conversation with Celeste Ng, and now we can add FREE AUDIOBOOKS to that list! For a limited time we’ve partnered with Libro.fm to give all Hardback-tier supporters a free audiobook! Summer is made for audiobook listening, so this is the perfect time for you to become a new patron. Go to patreon.com/whatshouldIreadnext to join in the fun! Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/189 You can find Brenna and Ryan on Instagram, @ryanpait and @brennasherrill. You can find Ryan’s writing at The Houstonian and the Chautauquan Daily. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, we meet Michelle Moreno, who I hope will inspire anyone out there who wants to make their bookstore dreams a reality. Anne got to talk to Michelle right after her very first pop-up shop, while she was still on the high of her first time putting books directly into the hands of her community. Anne and Michelle are discussing the books she chose for her first foray into handselling, the high of putting books directly into the hands of her community, the connection she finds between reading and plant care, and the moment she found her identity - on a bookshelf. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/188 You can browse Michelle's book-and-plant shop on Instagram @la.maceta.store Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hannah Christmas is a stay at home mom whose reading life changed forever when she had a baby. Not only how much she read, or when she read, but the big-picture long-term-plan way she wanted to share her love of reading with the world. Today Anne and Hannah chat about the treatment for a serious overdose of books set in New York City, fresh blood in the bookselling world, literary handcrafts, and much much more. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/187 You can check out Hannah’s literary embroidery at etsy.com/shop/EmbroiderhouseFive. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lamar Giles joins Anne to chat about his two great literary loves: children’s books, and... horror novelist Stephen King? If you don’t think those things go together, Lamar is prepared to talk you into changing your mind, and maybe about more than just that. Get ready for a great chat about transcending stereotypes, how books can build up the self-worth of young readers, great novels where the setting becomes a character in its own right, and so so much more.  Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/186 You can discover more about Lamar’s books at www.lamargiles.com, follow him on Twitter @LRGiles. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most weeks on What Should I Read Next, I’ll do a little literary matchmaking with one guest… but this week, I’m joined by the show's producer, Brenna Frederick, to hook SEVERAL What Should I Read Next listeners up with their perfect Summer read. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/185 Find your next great Summer read in the Modern Mrs Darcy Summer Reading Guide: https://modernmrsdarcy.com/summer-reading-guide-2019/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest is Will Schwalbe, devoted reader and host of the But That's Another Story podcast. Will believes if we all asked the question “what are you reading” more often, it could change the world, and has a few absolutely delightful literary superstitions... Anne and Will chatting all about the downside of conquering your TBR, misremembering poetry, bookstore serendipity, and Will’s attempt to convince ANNE to read a super ambitious classic she just haven’t had the nerve to pick up yet.  Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/184 Check out But That's Another Story on the podcast platform of your choice! Connect with Will on his website: http://willschwalbe.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/WillSch Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/will.schwalbe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karuna Riazi, is here to talk about magic. The magic of carrying a book in your bag that can teleport you to another world, the magic of a beautiful translation, and the magical pairing of a hot cup of tea and a good story. Anne and Karuna also chat about pen names, how to keep a book journal if you’re a total perfectionist, and a host of other things, but at the root of it all is everyday magic, and the books Anne recommends Karuna pick up next are totally on-theme. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/183 Connect with Karuna: Book | Website | Twitter Thanks to today's sponsors: With Prep Dish, you shop once, prep once—Then enjoy delicious home cooked meals for the whole week in just 20-30 minutes a day. WSIRN listeners can get a free 2-week trial! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A request we hear a lot at WSIRN is “can we have another episode about audiobooks??” So today, Anne is bringing in Michele Cobb, publisher at Audiofile magazine, to not only help recommend audiobooks for YOU, but to match Anne with her own next great audiobook read. Michele and Anne are chatting about the marriage of a great book with a great narrator, visual and auditory learning styles, jumping off points if you’re still on the fence about reading with your ears, and the key to some truly fantastic and FREE audiobooks you can get your hands on this Summer. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/182 Discover free audiobooks all Summer long with Audiofile's SYNC program. Connect with the magic on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest Holli Petersen has created a very special family book club that might inspire you to pick up the phone and call a bookish loved one as soon as the episode is over. She also totally hated one of Anne's favorite titles for the first 100 pages, before a turn of events melted her heart… Anne has mentioned this title DOZENS of times on the show, any guesses what that title might be? What we love most about WSIRN is putting the right book in the hands of the right reader, so Anne wants to recommend some of the best Summer releases especially to YOU! Head over to our Patreon posts page to find out how to be part of our upcoming Summer Reading episode. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/181 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest is reading speed-demon Liberty Hardy, professional book nerd and host of Book Riot’s All the Books podcast. Together, Liberty and Anne are going deep into a book labyrinth, discussing truly committed bookworm questions like “how do you avoid back strain while reading for hours on end?”, “how do I smuggle 1000 books out of my house safely?” and “what does Kate Atkinson’s grocery list look like?” They're also playing a Tom Stoppard-inspired literary game that miiiight destroy your TBR. Check out Anne's brand new podcast One Great Book. New episodes drop on Fridays! If one episode per week isn't enough, our Patreon community will get exclusive weekly bonus episodes. To sign up for bonus episodes, and all sorts of other WSIRN behind-the-scenes goodness visit http://patreon.com/whatshouldireadnext. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/180 You can check out Liberty's writing at Book Riot, follow her super-bookish and super-kitten-filled Instagram @FranzenComesAlive, and see what books she's talking about on Twitter @MissLiberty. Watch the clip from Rosencrantz & Guildenstern are Dead that inspired our game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alabama reader Shannan Malone has broad taste and high standards, and when it comes to new releases, even authors she’s loved in the past don’t get a free pass… the new book has to earn her love. So today’s episode goes out to all you eclectic readers who love hopping between genres. Anne and Shannan covering the struggle of pinpointing what you dislike about a book that everyone else thinks is amazing, awkward characters for the introverted reader, Shannon’s book club that connects moms near and far through literature, and of course much, much more. Anne has a brand new podcast called One Great Book, highlighting books Anne personally loves that you may have missed or forgotten about, but that you’ll be glad to discover—again, or for the first time. New episodes drop on Fridays. Make sure to subscribe to One Great Book on your preferred podcast player! If one episode per week isn't enough, our Patreon community will get exclusive bonus episodes corresponding with each new One Great Book episode, highlighting an extra title that hasn't been released yet so you can be in the know AND be the first on your library holds list. To sign up for bonus episodes, visit http://patreon.com/whatshouldireadnext. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/179 Check out Shannan’s blog www.shannanenjoyslife.com, and follow her on Instagram @shannanenjoyslife. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We have a new podcast! WSIRN is about helping readers find their next read. In each episode, the recommendations are geared toward a particular reader’s style, and Anne always looks for titles they haven’t read before. Our new podcast is a short format show called One Great Book. In every episode, Anne pulls one standout selection off her personal bookshelves and tell you all about it. She's highlighting books she loves that you may have missed or forgotten about, but that you’ll be glad to discover—again, or for the first time. We have 8 books planned for this first volume (commonly known as a season, on podcasts that are not of the bookish variety), and the first two books are available now in your favorite podcast player. New episodes drop on Fridays starting this week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Decision-making is a HUGE part of WSIRN's purpose. Podcaster and author Emily P. Freeman is an expert in the art of decision-making (she’s literally written the book on it), but when assigned school reading hijacked alllllll her personal reading time... deciding what to read next for pleasure got a little more complicated. Today, Anne helps Emily find her way back to confident personal reading decisions. Plus, they discuss what to do when you pick up the totally-wrong book by a totally-great author, biographical historical fiction, the first YA book ever written, and Emily’s newest book The Next Right Thing. On Friday, Anne's brand new podcast One Great Book entered the world. Unlike What Should I Read Next, which tailors recommendations to a specific reader's taste, One Great Book highlights books Anne loves that you may have missed or forgotten about, but that you’ll be glad to discover—again, or for the first time. We have 8 books planned for this first volume (the more-bookish term for "season"). New episodes drop on Fridays. Make sure to subscribe to One Great Book on your preferred podcast player! If one episode per week isn't enough, our Patreon community will get exclusive bonus episodes corresponding with each new One Great Book episode, highlighting an extra title that hasn't been released yet so you can be in the know AND be the first on your library holds list. To sign up for bonus episodes, visit http://patreon.com/whatshouldireadnext. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/178 Make sure to check out Emily’s podcast The Next Right Thing, and her new book of the same name. Find all the info you need on her website www.emilypfreeman.com. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram, both @emilypfreeman. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many listeners and past guests on WSIRN have shared their stories of reading dry spells due to chronic illness, anxiety, and disability. Today’s guest Kate Mitchell has experienced polar opposites in her reading life, going from a period of time when reading was literally her job, to stretches where reading was literally impossible because of chronic illness. Kate is sharing some of the wisdom she’s gained on her roller coaster of a reading life with us all, including practical tips for how to accept reality and adapt your reading life if you’re having a rough go of it yourself. Anne and Kate also chat about what realism looks like in the fantasy genre, books wayyyy too big to keep in your purse, and Kate gives Anne the student-debt-free cheat sheet to reading like you’ve got a Masters degree in literature. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/177 Hear more from Kate about her reading life and chronic illness at katethealmostgreat.com. Get closer to the creative process by joining WSIRN’s behind-the-scenes family on Patreon. Visit https://patreon.com/whatshouldireadnext for bonus episodes, outtakes, exclusive booklists, livestream chats with Anne, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

WSIRN often helps readers get out of their comfort zones, but today’s guest Mallory O’Meara is taking Anne out of hers. Her wheelhouse is everything bizarre, paranormal, and downright scary. But digging past the surface differences, Mallory and Anne have a lot in common, especially the desire to understand how an author DID that.  Today they're chatting about the magic of rereading a favorite book, arguing with critics, how comfort-reading looks way different for different readers, Mallory's pro tips for dealing with the post-scary-book jitters, and a lot more. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/176 Connect with Mallory on Twitter and Instagram @MalloryOMeara, listen to her podcast Reading Glasses, and check out her new book, The Lady from the Black Lagoon: Hollywood Monsters and the Lost Legacy of Milicent Patrick. Get closer to the creative process by joining WSIRN’s behind-the-scenes family on Patreon. Visit https://patreon.com/whatshouldireadnext for bonus episodes, outtakes, exclusive booklists, livestream chats with Anne, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michelle Wilson has noticed a specific character type that is missing from her bookshelves... and she is on the hunt for more. She and Anne chat about characters age 50+ in possession of NO magical powers, yelling at characters who make terrible decisions, reading as broadly as possible, and what it's like to be in not one, not two, but THREE book clubs (mmmmmaybe more.) Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/175 What Should I Read Next is now on Patreon to bring you bonus episodes, outtakes, peeks behind the scenes, printable goodness, livestream chats, and access to the epic master spreadsheet holding the loves, hates, and recommendations from each episode. Get closer to the creative process by heading over to https://patreon.com/whatshouldireadnext now and joining WSIRN’s behind-the-scenes family. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Guest Kate Daley is a house painter from New South Wales, Australia, who has been living for the past two and a half years... in a camper van! Today she chats with Anne about the genre that sent her into an intense reading rut, a family reading competition, and where she manages to fit a home library in while living in cramped quarters. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/174 You can connect with Kate on Instagram: @when_kate_reads What Should I Read Next is now on Patreon to bring you outtakes, peeks behind the scenes, printable goodness, online hangouts, BONUS EPISODES, and... access to our epic spreadsheet that holds the loves, hates, and recommendations from each episode. Backers also will get to participate in certain aspects of the creative process from call-ins, to special episode ideas, in fact our current backers even helped us title this episode. Get closer to the creative process by heading over to https://patreon.com/whatshouldireadnext now and joining WSIRN’s behind-the-scenes family. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After a year of focusing on reading over 100 books while recovering from a running injury, today’s guest Natalie Van Waning is sprinting enthusiastically toward many readers’ worst nightmare: Looooooong books. We're talking doorstop, tweak your wrist getting them off the shelf, 40-hours-on-Audible long books. Natalie asked Anne to help her focus on quality instead of quantity, so get ready for sweeping multi-generational sagas, tour-guide novels, and heart-tugging family stories. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/173 You can connect with Natalie on her blog: http://imchattynatty.blogspot.com/ Apply to be a guest on WSIRN: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/guest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sean Larkin is a self-proclaimed “slow reader”, stay-at-home-parent, and freelance photographer. If you don’t relate to 100-book reading goals or refreshing your feed for the latest book news, Sean is the kindred reading spirit you’ve been waiting to hear from! Anne chats with Sean about the book that made him nostalgic for a time period before he was born, calculating price-per-page at the library book sale, the longstanding bookish obsession he’s passing on to his wife and kids, and much more. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/172 You can check out Sean's photography work on Instagram and his website.  Apply to be a guest on WSIRN: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/guest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ready for a trip to Scotland? Today Anne sits down in-person with Ruth Andersen, a brand new bookseller in Wigtown, Scotland, to chat about what it's like to live in a "book town", Ruth's return to school after 50 years, and the delicate balance of stocking a used bookstore's shelves. Because this episode was recorded in the shop, during business hours, you’ll get to experience some of the bookshop atmosphere… like the ding of the bell on the door, creaky floorboards, even customers shopping in the background! Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/171 Apply to be a guest on WSIRN: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/guest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week Anne chats with Anna LeBaron, author of the memoir The Polygamist’s Daughter, about how literacy kept her going through a difficult childhood, and how as an adult she turned being an author’s biggest fan into a full-time career. You’ll hear how nonfiction put her dearest fractured relationships back together again, her tips for being a “patron of the arts” on a budget, and the redemptive nature of memoir-writing. Anna asked Anne to pair her with some novels that would convince her fiction isn’t a waste of her time, and that’s a responsibility WSIRN takes very seriously... Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/170 Apply to be a guest on WSIRN: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/guest Learn more about Anna's work: Website: http://www.AnnaLeBaron.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annaklebaron/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/annaklebaron Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/annaklebaron Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meet Phimy Truong and Erika Thi Benjamin, best friends who share both a passion for work that creates positive change in the world AND practically identical reading taste (as you’ll hear, one of their favorites is shared). Today Anne, Phimy, and Erika chat about the book that taught them radical self-care, how literature has helped them dive more deeply into understanding of their heritage, fictional characters who move between cultures, and the community building work Phimy and Erika are doing in LA through their democracy-driven book club SisterInsider. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode, and tell us in the comments if a book has ever changed YOUR self-care routine: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/169 Connect with the SisterInsider book club on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sisterinsiderbookclub Follow Erika on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northamerika Follow Phimy on Instagram: instagram.com/elephantwomxn  Apply to be a guest on WSIRN: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/guest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest Tara Nichols is giving herself an eagle-eye view of the last century’s literary landscape. Her mission is to read one book published each year between 1920 and 2019. The challenge brings with it a lot of important questions… what is worth her time? Is it better to read the big important book from a given year, or the title she thinks she’ll enjoy most ? And the question she’s hoping to answer after the year is over… has literature changed in all this time? Anne's challenge? Pitching 3 books worthy of adding to her lineup, including a book that is considered by some to be “the best mystery story ever written.” Are you ready? Let’s get to it! Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode, and tell us in the comments the books YOU would include in a century-of-books list: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/168 Follow Tara's reading challenge this year: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tarajoy90/?hl=en and Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/276636-tara-nichols Apply to be a guest on WSIRN: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/guest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest, Erin Morris, is tackling a book challenge with her child this year, and the impact on his imaginative life and her literary life has been no less than remarkable. If you have little ones, this episode is going to make you want to drop everything, pull them close, and enjoy a good book together. Anne and Erin also discuss making reading fun and stress-free for ADULTS because not every book has to be a learning experience, serious topics treated with respect, and Anne match Erin with whimsical — but not gimmicky — fiction. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode, and tell us in the comments about the books YOU love that walk the whimsical-but-not-gimmicky line: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/167 Apply to be a guest on WSIRN: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/guest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest Tiffany Patterson is a small-town reader who has created a new kind of literary get-together that is convincing her friends to give books a shot, even if they didn’t consider themselves “readers” before Tiffany got a hold of them. Tiffany is also ready to break down her own reading barriers… she asked Anne to help ease her fiction-loving soul into NONfiction that will help her "feel smarter". Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode, and tell us in the comments what books have helped YOU feel smarter: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/166 Follow Tiffany's reading life on Instagram @tiffany_reads_too_many_books Apply to be a guest on WSIRN: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/guest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you entered the new year dreaming of a fresh approach to your reading life, today’s guest Jim Mustich is sharing decades of wisdom to help kick off your best reading year ever. Anne and Jim chat about his new book 1000 Books to Read Before You Die, and why reading 1000 books might not be as daunting as it first sounds, then Jim takes on the book matchmaking mantle recommends which of the 1000 books he thinks *Anne* should prioritize in the new year. Here's to another year of literary matchmaking, listeners! Thanks for being here with us. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode, and tell us in the comments what books you would include in a read-before-you-die list: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/165 Learn more about Jim’s book: www.1000bookstoread.com Jim's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1000bookstoreadbeforeyoudie Jim's Twitter: https://twitter.com/jamesmustich Apply to be a guest on WSIRN: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/guest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chelsey and Curtis are childhood sweethearts looking to connect over a good book… and possibly, across an ocean. But their reading taste might not be as compatible as their personalities. Today they get brutally honest about their least-favorite books (Chelsey’s may shock you), Curtis gives a peek at his favorites from the Army’s required reading list, and Anne pushes them both out of their comfort zone with her recommendations. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode, and tell us in the comments what book YOU think Chelsey and Curtis should read next: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/164 Listen to Chelsey and Curtis' podcast He Read, She Read on iTunes or your favorite podcast app! iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/he-read-she-read/id1436207095?mt=2 Apply to be a guest on WSIRN: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/guest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ashley Gossens created a nature-driven Seattle book club that brings the page to life in an adventurous, completely unique way. Today, Ashley and Anne talk about the wildlife encounter that made brought a book up-close and personal, what nature has taught Ashley about motherhood, and the particular, magical way a book can affect your confidence. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode, and tell us in the comments what YOU think Ashley should read on the trail next: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/163 Connect with Ashley's Alpine Trails book club Website: http://www.alpinelily.com/portfolio/alpine-trails-book-club Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alpine_lily Apply to be a guest on WSIRN: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/guest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest Traci Thomas has had a hard time finding her niche in the online bookish community, because, as she puts it, she “reads like a dad”. But I have a hunch lots of listeners will relate to her obsession with true crime and the literary search for truth. We’re chatting about books that strengthen your sense of belonging, Traci’s reluctance to read fiction, and the best bad ending she has EVER read. If you recognize her voice, there’s a reason for that… she hosts snappy podcast book club The Stacks, a show focused on giving you real life conversations about all things book.  Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode, and tell us in the comments what YOU think Traci should read next: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/162 To check out Traci's show The Stacks: iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-stacks/id1362164483?mt=2 Website: https://thestackspodcast.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thestackspod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/thestackspod_ Connect with Traci: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bitracial/ Apply to be a guest on WSIRN: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/guest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Literary podcast nerds rejoice–Ann Kingman of Books On The Nightstand fame is behind the mic once more! We asked you to call and write in about the people you want to give the gift of a good read this year… and WOW, you all delivered! Ann and Anne are dishing out rapid-fire recommendations for young AND old readers with highly varied literary interests. You’ll also get to hear what Ann’s been up to since Books on the Nightstand shut its doors, and both their favorite bookish-but-NOT-book gifts for the holiday or any other season. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode, and tell us in the comments what bookish gifts YOU are giving this year: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/161 Listen to archived episodes of Books on the Nightstand at https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/books-on-the-nightstand/id278076085?mt=2 Apply to be a guest on WSIRN: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/guest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever read a book that made the world around you feel just a little bit… magical? Today Anne welcomes author Jon Cohen on the show to chat about the magic of the mundane life in fiction, his unorthodox path to writing, the mighty bookworm women in his life, and what it was like to live with the school librarian as a child. Plus, Anne recommends three books guaranteed to make Jon's everyday just a little bit more... magical. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode, and leave a comment telling us what YOU think Jon should read next: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/160 Jon's website: http://joncohenbooks.com Jon's Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/17138344.Jon_Cohen Apply to be a guest on WSIRN: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/guest Thanks to today's sponsors: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shawntaye Hopkins discovered Jane Austen’s books for the first time as an adult - and after that initial discovery, she dove in DEEP. Today, Anne and Shawntaye chat about the magic of immersive literary events that celebrate the classics (not just Jane!) and how they’ve changed the way Shawntaye reads her most beloved books. They also explore TEN YEARS of book journaling, the book Shawntaye is still hungover from, the things readers do for fear of missing a good book, and Anne's recommendation for her includes a book you probably have never heard of. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode, and leave a comment telling us what YOU think Shawntaye should read next: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/159 Visit Shawntaye on Instagram: @shawntaye1 Apply to be a guest on WSIRN: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/guest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you have a gigantic pile of books that you own but haven’t yet read looming somewhere in your house, today's guest Whitney Conard totally gets you. Anne is chatting with Whitney about the Instagram endeavor #TheUnreadShelfProject, saying goodbye to reading shame, the right and not-quite-right times to read (for instance, in math class) and then, at Whitney’s invitation, Anne takes a hard look at Whitney’s unread shelf to help her decide what she should read next. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode, and leave a comment telling us what YOU think Whitney should read next: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/158 Connect with Whitney on her website www.theunreadshelf.com, on Instagram @theunreadshelf and her hashtag #TheUnreadShelfProject2018. Apply to be a guest on WSIRN: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/guest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Anne chats with a reader who turned her family’s difficult story into a book that has brought joy and hope to countless readers. Georgia Hunter got curious about her family history, and a few questions put to the right relatives uncovered something she didn’t expect—a sweeping multi-generational drama just begging to be written down. So, she did. That story became We Were the Lucky Ones, a historical fiction novel Anne discussed with Clara Breitenmoser in Ep 131, and at WSIRN Live! from The Novel Neighbor in Ep 76. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode, and leave a comment telling us what YOU think Georgia should read next: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/157 Connect with Georgia:  Website: http://www.georgiahunterauthor.com Instagram: http://instagram.com/georgiahunter Goodreads: http://goodreads.com/georgiahunter Apply to be a guest on WSIRN: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/guest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clear your calendars -- today’s episode might inspire you to rethink and rearrange your whole home library. Myquillyn Smith, author of home decor books Cozy Minimalist Home and The Nesting Place, joins Anne to chat about the revelation of ribbon on a bookshelf, spunky iconoclastic women in fiction, why she doesn’t have a library card, and books that give you a kick in the pants... what she does to dust jackets might horrify you, but you’ll be laughing all the way. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode, and leave a comment telling us what YOU think Myquillyn should read next: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/156 Visit Myquillyn at TheNester.com, and follow her on Instagram @thenester. • The Nesting Place: It Doesn't Have to Be Perfect to Be Beautiful (Amazon | Barnes & Noble) Apply to be a guest on WSIRN: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/guest Join the Modern Mrs. Darcy book club at www.members.modernmrsdarcy.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guests ask Anne to bridge the divide between an imaginative-fiction lover and a scientific-NONfiction lover. Ashley and Brent are a father-daughter reading duo who share an Audible account and a love for an untold story. Anne, Ashley, and Brent cover everything from Ashley’s mega-popular most HATED book, how they survive differing tastes to make reading a family affair, and the story of who stole whose Audible credits... Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode, and leave a comment telling us what YOU think Ashley and Brent should read together next: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/155 Follow Ashley's reading life on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigworld_books Apply to be a guest on WSIRN: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/guest Join the Modern Mrs. Darcy book club at www.members.modernmrsdarcy.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, guest RuthAnn Deveney lead Anne into the world of special-interest reading, discussing how her passion for victim advocacy brought powerful literature into her life that she wouldn’t have discovered otherwise. They also chat about sensitive-reader self-care how books are like spicy food, books that would be much better as the 10 minute TED Talks that inspired them… and so much more. Be aware that today’s episode contains some conversation about human trafficking and physical abuse. If you know these topics are triggering for you, please take care of yourself by listening with caution, or simply setting this episode aside and tuning in next week. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode, and leave a comment telling us what YOU think RuthAnn should read next: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/154 Check out RuthAnn's Dressember page or go a step further and join her team!  If you'd like to be on the show you can apply to be a guest at: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/guest You can join the Modern Mrs. Darcy book club at www.members.modernmrsdarcy.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kari Sweeney is a working mom of four who has developed a VERY unique system to keep her reading life running like clockwork. Kari and Anne chat about wishy washy star ratings, the right season for the right book, reading at the grocery store... and Kari is sharing her secret to getting the hottest new books the week they release -- for FREE. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode, and leave a comment telling us what YOU think Kari should read next: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/153 If you'd like to be on the show you can apply to be a guest at: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/guest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Get ready for a serious TBR-filler. Today’s guest Elham Ali flips the script to recommend Canadian literature to Anne… but turnabout is fair play, and Anne won't let her leave without some of HER favorite CanLit recommendations. It's a bookish road trip around the Great White North, full of juicy book-marketing gossip, literary sin revelry, and much much more. Stick around until AFTER the credits to hear one last clip about Elham meeting an unexpected reading hero on the bus. It’s so good, you do NOT want to miss it. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode, and leave a comment telling us what YOU think Elham should read next: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/152 If you'd like to be on the show you can apply to be a guest at: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/guest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest populates the “candy aisle” of the bookstore. Maria Ribas is a literary agent who specializes in gorgeous full-color cookbooks and snappy self-help! So yes, she totally has it covered in the nonfiction department, but her fiction game could use a little freshening… and that’s where Anne comes in. Whether you like exploring the stories behind a great recipe, letting a lush historical novel sweep you away, or pumping yourself up with a snarky self-help book, today’s episode will nourish your readerly soul. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode, and leave a comment telling us what YOU think Maria should read next: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/151 Connect with Maria: Blog: http://cooksplusbooks.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/maria_ribas Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mariaribas00 If you'd like to be on the show you can apply to be a guest at: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/guest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Until recently, reading was a means to an end in language arts teacher Julie Mushkin's life - and the type of book that totally turned things around for her may surprise you. Today, Anne and Julie are recommending books perfectly suited for both teens AND adults, chatting about serious book projects, what to do when you have no reading stamina, and infiltrating the not-so-secret world of teens... Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode, and leave a comment telling us what YOU think Julie should read next: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/150 If you'd like to be on the show you can apply to be a guest at: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/guest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

WSIRN’s producer Brenna Frederick is in the virtual studio today, and she’s bringing an armload of YOUR questions to the table, gathered from email, instagram, and the comment section. What did Anne do with her life before she became a blogger and podcaster? What movie is TOTALLY better than the book it’s based on? How do guests get themselves on the show? Are audiobooks really considered “reading”? They're answering all these questions and more, plus dropping a bunch of book recommendations straight from their bookish heart to yours. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode, and leave a comment telling us what YOU'RE thinking about reading next: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/149 Drop our producer a friendly note at brenna@modernmrsdarcy.com If you'd like to be on the show, you can apply to be a guest at: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/guest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’ve talked more than once on WSIRN about how the power of reading aloud forges family bonds… and today’s guest, Laura Summerhill, puts that thought into action in a brilliant and life-affirming way. But she’s also been out of the pleasure reading game for a long, long time while working on her PhD, and today Anne attempts to reconnect her with what everyone’s been talking about in the book world while she’s been gone. Anne is going on book tour! Find out if she's coming to your area: http://annebogel.com/events Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode, and leave a comment telling us what YOU think Laura should read next: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/148 If you'd like to be on the show you can apply to be a guest at: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/guest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anne chats with Marines Alvarez and Nicole Sweeney, bookworm best friends who like to keep their reading life SOCIAL. Together they host the podcast Snark Squad, where they rehash books, tv, and movies with a sharp eye and a lot of laughs. True to character, Marines and Nicole brought the giggles to WSIRN -- they're about how the internet has changed reading forever, destroying their childhood favorites, controversial star rating opinions, books that really sucker punch you in the feels, and more. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode, and leave a comment telling us what YOU think Marines and Nicole should read together next: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/147 Make sure to give Snark Squad Pod a listen: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/snark-squad-pod/id1331049036?mt=2 And snoop around the Snark Squad blog archives: https://www.snarksquad.com/ Connect with Marines:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/mynameismarines  Twitter: @mynameismarines Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/7013001-mari Connect with Nicole:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/SweeneySays Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/sweeneysays If you'd like to be on the show you can apply to be a guest at: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/guest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, Anne has an incredible conversation with Chatti Phal-Brown about how war, family, trauma, joy, and hope for the future have shaped her reading life. Chatti requests recommendations from a genre almost NEVER discussed on the show, and her least favorite book might surprise you... CONTENT WARNING: Today’s episode gets emotional at times, and Chatti speaks candidly about topics like genocide, sexual assault, and racism. If those topics might be triggering for you, please take care of yourself by listening with caution, or simply setting this episode aside and tuning in next week. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode, and leave a comment telling us what YOU think Chatti should read next: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/146 You can hear more from Chatti on her blog ChattiTheBrave.com, follow her on Instagram @chattithebrave, and browse her GORGEOUS handcrafted body products on Instagram @remyandrose. If you'd like to be on the show you can apply to be a guest at: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/guest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we have a special bonus episode for you! Anne's new book I'd Rather Be Reading: The Delights and Dilemmas of the Reading Life comes out in a little less than a month. Today she's reading you the first chapter. And YOU get to play along in a fun, social, and bibliotherapeutic way. The first essay is titled Confess Your Literary Sins, and in it, Anne shares how (and why) readers somehow feel compelled to reveal all the guilty secrets of their reading lives—to her. But she's learned over the years that it feels so much better—and is so much more fun—to get these secrets out into the open. So listen to the short episode, download the intro and first chapter, and get ready to spill YOUR bookish secrets with the hashtag #confessyourliterary sins. Click here to visit Anne's blog for more info (and to see her favorite illustration from her new book). And psst—that preorder deadline is August 14: don't miss it! Get the lowdown right here. Happy listening, and happy reading! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, Anne tackles guest Travis Meserve's bookstore anxiety - where should you look in the store to find your next read? How do you get past the nerves and talk to your friendly local bookseller? And is there a secret key to understanding the bestsellers table up front? Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode, and leave a comment telling us what YOU think Travis should read next: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/144 You can read more about Travis' reading life and world travels on his blog, MeserveReserve.com. If you'd like to be on the show you can apply to be a guest at: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/guest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If both Netflix and the bookshelf hold equal value in your heart, you’ll totally relate to today’s guest. Patience Randle loves a book with cinematic appeal, especially if it comes with a comfy chair and a great cup of coffee. Today, Patience and Anne chat about books that would make great screenplays, Patience's favorite places to enjoy a good book and a brew, future novel-writing dreams, what would happen if the apocalypse came to their hometowns, and so much more! Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode, and leave a comment telling us what YOU think Patience should read next: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/143 Check out Patience's blog, and make sure to follow her gorgeous bookish Instagram @inkandfable! Blog: http://www.patiencerandle.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inkandfable Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In episode 138, we met NYPL librarians Gwen and Frank, who filled WILDLY different roles despite working within the same library system. Today, Anne explores a smaller-town librarian experience through the eyes of Sarah Peden, a children’s librarian from Humboldt, Tennessee. Sarah is full of stories about the long road to librarianship, strange patron requests, small town scandals that echo for decades, and so much more delicious library gossip. And if you’ve ever wondered who wins in battle Wikipedia vs the Librarian… she’s weighing in with her opinions. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode, and leave a comment with a story about YOUR library experiences when you were a child: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/142 You can follow Sarah on Instagram, @sarahthelibrarygirl. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anne chats with Ian Morgan Cron, noted Enneagram teacher, psychotherapist, author of The Road Back to You and host of the Typology podcast, about how their favorite literary characters (and maybe a few movie characters) fit into the framework of the super-hot-right-now Enneagram personality system. From Hermione Granger to Jay Gatsby to Marianne Dashwood to Samwise Gamgee... today we cover a LOT of literary ground.  If you don’t know anything about the Enneagram personality framework, don’t worry! This episode is totally newbie-friendly. Click over to the podcast website for a list of books mentioned in this episode, a friendly comment section, and helpful Enneagram resources: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/141 Ian's website: http://www.iancron.com Subscribe to Ian's show Typology. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest Cindy Wang-Brandt has gone through a lot of shifts in her life - spiritual, political, familial… which around here, begs a question: what do those shifts do to a person’s reading life? Join Anne and Cindy in an examination of how identities are reflected in what books we choose, the lenses we bring to what we read, what “counts” as literary fiction, stories that help us understand the chaotic world around us, and so much more. Click over to the podcast website to tell Cindy what YOU think she should read next, or tell us about your own reading life shifts: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/140 Subscribe to Cindy's podcast Parenting Forward: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/parenting-forward-stories-strategies-solutions-for/id1403686245?mt=2 Connect with Cindy on Twitter: https://twitter.com/cindy_w_brandt Follow WSIRN on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatshouldireadnext Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anne chats with Eric Zimmer, host of The One You Feed podcast, which features interviews with thoughtful people who have big ideas about making a “conscious, creative effort toward a life worth living.” Anne and Eric talk about his favorite comic strip character, embarrassing library visits, books for the meditative reader, the patron saint of WSIRN, noir detective novels, and much much more. Click over to the podcast website to tell Eric what YOU think he should read next, or tell us about your own favorite comic strip character: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/139 Follow Anne on Twitter: https://twitter.com/AnneBogel  Follow WSIRN on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatshouldireadnext Connect with Eric at www.oneyoufeed.net. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gwen Glazer and Frank Collerius work in unique roles at the New York Public Library system, and together host the wonderful podcast The Librarian Is In. Today Anne, Gwen, and Frank have a heart-to-heart chat about the ways librarians' roles have shifted over the past decade, how libraries adapt to meet their patrons needs, and opportunities for you to give back to your library in valuable ways. Click over to the podcast website to leave a comment about your favorite library tips, tricks, and memories: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/138 Follow WSIRN on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatshouldireadnext Want more Gwen and Frank? Listen to The Librarian Is In wherever you get your podcasts! You can also follow Frank's branch on Instagram @jefferson_market_library, or follow NYPL on Twitter @NYPLrecommends. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Leigh Kramer is a former medical social worker, and the author of a brand new novel about life, love, and loss called A Storied Life. Today Anne digs deep with former social worker and current author Leigh Kramer to discuss a tough, nuanced topic: grief. From instructive texts, to descriptive fiction, to tales-of-caution, the bookshelf has a lot to say about this universal human emotion. This is a great conversation, but you should know that some of the books we discuss grapple with things like cancer, death, miscarriage, and other trauma. If these topics are triggering for you, or if you are currently recovering from a loss, please take care of yourself by listening with caution, or simply putting this episode aside for a later time. Connect with Leigh: Book | Blog | Instagram Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, or to leave a comment letting Jen know what YOU think she should read next: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/137 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, welcome to our first impromptu and improvised episode of What Should I Read Next! Today Anne tells you a little about our new class, Get More Out of Your Library. Click here for more details, and click here to learn more about the MMD Book Club and sign up before the Wednesday class. In this episode, Anne also tells you a small-world bookish story, and shares One Great Book for your TBR. We hope you enjoy today's episode! We'll be back next week with a new Tuesday episode. ____________________________________________________________ Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram Sign up for the free WSIRN newsletter at https://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/newsletter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Guest and author Jen Hatmaker is known for speaking publicly about a LOT of things, but reading isn’t one of them! At least, not the books she’s really reading on her own time—and today you’re going to hear how different those titles are from what you probably EXPECT her to enjoy reading. Today Jen and I get to chat about about the intricacies of her home library, the book that gave her nightmares, the books she's afraid to read on the bus, the finer points of humor writing, our foodie favorites, and more. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, or to leave a comment letting Jen know what YOU think she should read next: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/135 ____________________________________________________________ Connect with Jen: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Huntington is a young audiobook fanatic who chews through stories at an exhilarating rate - we’re talking reading the Hobbit in one week! Today, Anne recommends a ton of great audiobook series to keep his reading list full all summer. This is an episode the whole family can enjoy, full of books perfect for road trip entertainment! And stay tuned till the end for follow up commentary from Ben and his mom, including funny jokes and helpful resources for topics discussed today. You could be featured in an upcoming episode! Tell us about your favorite library tips and tricks. How do you get the most out of your library's resources? Is there a perfect balance to your library hauls? Talk back: whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/talk Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, or to leave a comment letting Ben know what YOU think he should read next: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/134 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Guest Sachi Argabright discovered a rich vein of books by Asian American authors who inspire her, and it’s given her reading life wings. In today's episode, Anne tops up her list with unique and soon-to-be-released titles so she can stay in that happy place for a long time to come.  They also discuss travel, reading goals, book organization (see her gorgeous "favorites bookshelf" on the shownotes page of our site), and much much more. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/133 And while you're at it make sure you check out the 2018 Summer Reading Guide: https://modernmrsdarcy.com/summer-reading-guide-2018/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s time to get your library holds all set up for a long summer of reading! Whether you’re looking for a contemporary page-turner, something spine-chilling, a chunky classic, a dose of reality, or if you’re suspending expectations in hope of some bookish serendipity… Anne is here with friend of the show and bookseller Annie Jones to discuss the alllll the hot titles they can’t help but want to shove in their friends hands.  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/132 And while you're at it make sure you check out the 2018 Summer Reading Guide: https://modernmrsdarcy.com/summer-reading-guide-2018/ Connect with Annie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anniebjones05/ The Bookshelf: https://www.bookshelfthomasville.com/ Shelf Subscription service: https://www.bookshelfthomasville.com/subscriptions/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jane Austen devotees will get a big kick out of today’s guest - Clara Breitenmoser is originally from New Zealand, currently lives in England, and now spends her days smack in the middle of a favorite literary landmark. Anne and Clara talk about heritage preservation, tracking reading with the help of our friends, excellent foodie memoirs, and also dive into Clara’s tough special request: She wants to read more books about characters in their 20s, without romance as the central theme. Take the WSIRN listener survey: whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/survey And let us know what YOU'RE reading this Summer, for a chance to be featured in an upcoming episode: whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/talk Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/131 Follow Anne on Twitter: https://twitter.com/AnneBogel  Follow WSIRN on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatshouldireadnext Check out Clara's travel blog here: cafesandcultureblog.wordpress.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pop quiz - what is true of only 14 of the 110 Nobels awarded for Literature since the category's founding in 1901? Answer: only 14 women have received the honor. Today’s guests Kendra Winchester and Autumn Privett are intent on giving brilliant female authors their due. Every month, their podcast Reading Women shines a spotlight on a different genre or type of author - some favorite past themes include Women in Translation, Southern Literature, and Women of Color. So what better way to celebrate female authors on What Should I Read Next than a little roundtable literary matchmaking? Autumn, Kendra, and Anne chat about reading women as little girls, their favorite recent books by female authors, and introduce each other to hidden gems. Ready your TBR list! Take the WSIRN listener survey: whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/survey And let us know what YOU'RE reading this Summer, for a chance to be featured in an upcoming episode: whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/talk Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/130 Tune in to Reading Women podcast: https://www.readingwomenpodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Between her 2016 appearance on WSIRN and today, reader Osheta's Moore's creative projects have blossomed in beautiful ways. Today, Anne is catching up with Osheta to find out about the podcast that was just a baby project when they first chatted, the perfect library haul formula, how a reading life can change in 2 years, and how Osheta's one especially important bookshelf has grown over time.  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode: http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/129/ Follow Anne on Twitter: https://twitter.com/AnneBogel  Follow WSIRN on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatshouldireadnext Check out Osheta Moore's podcast, Shalom Sessions: http://shalominthecity.com/shalom-sessions Thanks to today's sponsors ThirdLove: Go to ThirdLove.com/READNEXT now to find your perfect-fitting bra… and get 15% off your first purchase!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If the word “biography” doesn’t fill you with excitement, maybe today’s guest Tracie Haddock’s enthusiasm can convince you to give them another shot. She even calls one famous biographer her “adopted grandfather”—although what she’s REALLY looking for are great biographies about amazing women, because she just hasn’t found enough out there. In this episode, Anne and Tracie discuss books about extraordinary people living during fascinating times, whether or not to be stingy with star ratings, unreliable NON-fiction authors, books so engrossing they’ve made Tracie’s family fend for themselves at dinnertime, and much much more. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode: http://modernmrsdarcy.com/128-episode/ Follow Anne on Twitter: https://twitter.com/AnneBogel  Follow WSIRN on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatshouldireadnext Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Everything’s upside down this week - WSIRN guest Jordan Bradley needs help QUITTING books! Years of higher education taught him to just push through a bad reading experience - but now it’s time to recalibrate. In today’s episode, Anne and Jordan talk futuristic fiction, vast histories, far-flung expeditions, and together chart a course toward Jordan's happier reading ever-after. Readers, we’re starting to add events to the calendar for summer and fall 2018, and when we’re ready to go public our newsletter subscribers will be the first ones to know Make sure you’re on the list so YOU stay in the know: Sign up at http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/newsletter Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Jordan should read next! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram Connect with Jordan on Instagram, take a peek at Jordan and Raeleen's farm on Instagram, and check out their business WallQuotes.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest is Roxanne Coady, proprietor of RJ Julia bookstore in Madison, Connecticut and host of the Just The Right book podcast. Years ago, Roxanne did what many of WSIRN listeners have dreamed of doing - she left her old career behind, and started a bookstore. Join Anne as she investigates how Roxanne found a calling that appealed to her heart rather than her head, emotionally resonant narratives, nonfiction that holds your hand through tough times, PLUS - you'll learn about the origin of book subscription boxes which trust us, you want to hear about. Readers, we’re starting to add events to the calendar for summer and fall 2018, and when we’re ready to go public our newsletter subscribers will be the first ones to know Make sure you’re on the list so YOU stay in the know: Sign up at http://whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/newsletter Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Roxanne should read next! Connect with Roxanne: Podcast | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook Make sure to check out RJ Julia's Just The Right Book subscription service.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you ever feel a little out of place in the world of online readers? Perhaps you're more of a dabbler? You might relate to today's guest!  Dana Hartness is fascinated by “reading culture” but feels like she doesn’t belong because her interests are so far-flung, and most of the time she’d rather just curl up with Netflix. Today, Anne tries to connect the dots between Dana's WILDLY different favorites, and recommend 3 books that will give Netflix a run for its money.  In this episode, Dana mentions LOVING Anne's daily Kindle Deal emails. You can sign up to get daily deals in your inbox here.  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Dana should read next! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram Connect with Dana and check out her adorable jewelry shop: Instagram | Shop Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s episode is a FESTIVAL of book recommendations for all ages. You might recognize children’s lit enthusiast extraordinaire Sarah Mackenzie from Episode 49 during our Reading for a Lifetime series, when she came on the show to help Anne recommend books to some truly adorable bookish kids. Today, they’re doing more of the same, but Anne also gets to recommend 3 books that Sarah can incorporate into her ADULT reading life when she’s not running Read Aloud Revival or sharing books with her kids. Do having a reading perspective you've never heard featured on WSIRN? Visit whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/guest to apply to for the show! Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Rissie should read next! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram Connect with Sarah: Check out Read Aloud Revival: Website | Podcast | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest is a reader who loves to laugh. Rissie Lundberg wrote in to the show to tell us she’s been a listener from the very beginning, but has NEVER heard her favorite titles discussed on the air. We knew we had to have her on the show to remedy that situation as soon as possible. Rissie is a high school math teacher with a bookish bent - she even assigns English literature as math homework! Today, Anne investigates what titles Rissie discusses with her math students, and they chat about books that WON’T make you cry, books rooted in vocation, knockout audiobooks, and much more. Do having a reading perspective you've never heard featured on WSIRN? Visit whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/guest to apply to for the show! Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Rissie should read next! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram Connect with Rissie: Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You might recognize today’s guest if you’re a reality tv buff - Scott Flanary WON season 29 of The Amazing Race! But he also happens to be a huge book nerd, and that’s what we get to talk about today. Scott says his home-base genre used to be chick lit, but after recently discovering a new favorite niche genre, he's ready to travel even further in his bookish journey. Today I get to chat with Scott about how book clubs can help you connect deeply with your community, book-to-stage adaptations, childhood favorite heroines, and YES I ask some of the questions you reality tv fans have been dying to hear answers to, like… how does an introvert find time to recharge during a hectic filming schedule? Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Scott should read next! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram Connect with Scott: Twitter | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guests take getting lost in a good book to a TOTALLY different level. Kristen Meinzer and Jolenta Greenberg host By The Book podcast, a bookish comedy show where they live by the rules of different self-help bestseller, for two weeks at a time. Kristen and Jolenta have lived to the letter of books like The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, The Secret, The Miracle Morning, and more. Anne's high-stakes job this week is recommending 3 titles for them to live through NEXT. (No pressure.) Today’s episode includes a very brief discussion of disordered eating. If this is a topic you need to skip for your safety, the discussion starts when the book French Women Don’t Get Fat is mentioned around halfway through the show. Fast-forward three minutes to miss it. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Liz should read next! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram Check out By The Book podcast: Website | Apple Podcasts | Twitter Connect with Kristen and Jolenta on Twitter.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest Elizabeth Smith is an English Major lives a life that will inspire envy in a a lot of WSIRN listeners. She and her family homeschool, run a theatre company, tend a hobby farm, and herd sheep. No more juicy details here though - it’s better when Liz tells it. Anne and Liz also chat about the BEST way to experience Shakespeare, books for people who thrive on melancholy, and how to get more out of your local independent bookstores. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Liz should read next! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram Connect with Elizabeth: Blog | Instagram | Theatre Website | Theatre Facebook Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest Carly Friedman is a working mom, an advisor at her local university, and has a totally unique goal for her 2018 reading life. We'll give you one hint: backlist. Today Anne and Carly chat about nonfiction titles for people who love to learn, Carly's budding romance with audiobooks, novels with a strong sense of place and time, what moves a book from your bookshelf to your bedside table, and so much more! Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Carly should read next! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anne and today's guest Dena Abramson Babb have a lot in common. Both were the girl in class who loved to choose the heftiest books possible from school reading lists, and now as adults they've infused their family cultures with reading. There's a little something special about today's episode, too - you'll get to snoop behind the scenes of the launch of Anne's book Reading People: How Seeing the World through the Lens of Personality Changes Everything, because Dena played a special part in the process.  Discussed in today's episode: nonfiction that transports who into a whole new world, making reading accessible for a dyslexic child, books for self-aware readers, the rhythms of a reading family, and more!  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Dena should read next! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram Connect with Dena: Website | Facebook Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest Rachael Robinson lives in Southern California, but Anne met her for the very first time in her own kitchen. (They'll get to that in the episode). Rachael describes herself as an “extreme” book lover who discovered her reading obsession when her son was born and Netflix just wasn’t cutting it for entertainment. Today Anne and Rachael chat about Rachael's best reading year ever, #BookClubProblems, last-minute cross-country bookish adventures, and so much more. But make sure to stick around for the end of the show, because as a special treat, Anne got the chance to have a second conversation Rachael and see what she ACTUALLY thought of one of the books Anne recommended to her. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Rachael should read next! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram Connect with Rachael: Blog | Instagram | Goodreads  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Readers, if you're intrigued by the behind-the-scenes of the publishing industry, this one's for you. In today's new episode I chat with John August, a screenwriter, devoted reader, and author of a brand-new (or soon-to-be) middle grade novel. As of this morning, John also has a brand new podcast out in the world: it’s called LAUNCH, and as someone who loves all the details about how books are born, I can’t wait to listen. This six-episode podcast tracks the launch of John’s novel, Arlo Finch in the Valley of Fire, John covers it all, from conceiving the idea to landing an agent to the editorial process to printing and pub date to book tour and beyond. We chat a little about the process today, as well as the difference between writing movies and writing books, stories that bridge two worlds, and John's unusual method of working, which is unlike any method I've previously heard of.  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think John should read next! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram Connect with John: Website | Twitter | Instagram | LAUNCH podcast | Scriptnotes podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Time FLIES when you're reading a good book... and, turns out, when you're podcasting.  Today marks WSIRN's second anniversary! We thought it would be fun to rewind allllll the way back to our VERY FIRST GUEST, ever-colorful personality and the co-host of The Popcast: Jamie Golden. Today you’ll get to hear some secrets about what Anne originally had planned for the show (and which of these plans we threw out the window) a totally true bookshop story about Tom Hanks, a literary pop culture lightning round, and Jamie’s pitch for WSIRN: After Dark. Plus, of course, some fresh recommendations to perk up Jamie’s reading life - and maybe yours - in 2018. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Jamie should read next! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram Connect with Jamie: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram Check out The Popcast: Website | Twitter | Facebook Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We asked 14 different podcast listeners how they organize their bookshelves … and we're sharing their ideas with you. (Some readers even provided photos of their methods— link below!) Ever-popular genre and color organization came up of course, but we also get to hear about the uniquely-displayed special interest book collections some of you have, including a bookshelf entirely dedicated to one specific period of history, and another home library entirely organized with book-lending in mind. And yes, of course, at the end of today’s episode Anne shares some stories about her own shelves. Click over to the podcast website to see pictures of some of the shelves we peeked into this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know how you organize your own shelves! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram    Thanks to today's sponsors: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"I want to read more" is a common refrain in January, so here's some good news: today's episode is full of tips and tricks to help you maximize your time and strategize your next best read! If you've been listening to WSIRN for a while, you've heard Anne talk more than once about supply-side vs demand-side readers. The brilliant mind behind that concept is author and podcaster Laura Vanderkam, who you may know from her books 168 Hours, I Know How She Does It, and What the Most Successful People Do Before Breakfast, or her new podcast Best of Both Worlds.  On today's WSIRN episode Laura shares the strategies she uses to improve her own reading life (one of which includes reading War And Peace in the grocery store), a new perspective on free time, her bucket list books, and LOTS more. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what you think! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram    Connect with Laura: Twitter | Website | Ted Talk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's episode is a cozy family affair! Anne chats with Emily and Daniela Loose, a mother-daughter duo from New Hampshire who have been reading together for Emily’s entire life. Emily went off to college this fall, and they're learning to navigate the pain of waiting way too long to talk to your book buddy about what you’re reading (texting in all caps about a book you just read is TOTALLY acceptable.) Topics this week: books for book people, Swedish children’s books, the pleasures of re-reading, and reading Dr Seuss for the first time—as an adult. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what you think! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram    2018 Reading Challenge Readers, get more out of your reading life this year with the 2018 Modern Mrs Darcy reading challenge. The goal of the 2018 Reading Challenge is to read amazing books in 2018. To do that, you need amazing books and time to read them. We can help. We’ve created 12 categories this year designed to give you the best possible reading experience, and we’ve created free, downloadable tools for you that are pretty, practical, and all kinds of motivating. Click here to get started and to get your free reading challenge kit. We can't wait to read with you in 2018! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's our first guest from Down Under! Today Anne talks books with Fiona Thoms, a party-planning, paleo cooking, PTA president mum of three kids who lives in Sydney, Australia. You may recognize Fiona’s voice from Episode 62, because she recommends two books to Anne in our special What Should ANNE Read Next episode. Today's topics: the pleasures and perils of the Australian literary life, reading fictional books about real-life travel destinations, how Fiona's life bears an uncanny resemblance to the Liane Moriarty novel Big Little Lies, and more. See the full list of titles discussed today and tell Fiona your recommendations for what she should read next on the podcast site. Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram    Connect with Fiona: Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest is Annie Spence, author of Dear Fahrenheit 45: Love and Hate in the Stacks, a collection of breakup notes and love letters to books she encounters in her day-to-day as a public librarian. This week Anne learns all about how Annie became a public librarian. They also discuss the difficulty of recommending books when you’re in a HUGE reading slump yourself, bizarre nonfiction, and seasonal reading patterns. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what you think! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram   Connect with Annie: Blog | Twitter | Book Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anne kicked off her first visit to Malaprop's Bookstore in Asheville, NC in a big way - a WSIRN liveshow! You can read more details about what the show was like in this Modern Mrs. Darcy post. This episode is a fast and furious speed round of literary matchmaking for SEVERAL guests at the live event - get ready to live vicariously through your fellow WSIRN fans (and prepare your Goodreads - your TBR might grow 10 sizes today.) Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what you think! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram   Connect with Malaprop's Bookstore: Website | Twitter | Facebook Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Holland Saltsman from the Novel Neighbor in St Louis joins Anne to talk about their favorite books of the year, supporting local bookstores, and the bookish gifts they can’t wait to give and receive this year. Whether you’re shopping for a book lover, making your own wish list, or want to indulge in a whole bunch of readerly enthusiasm, this episode will be a treat. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles and bookish gifts discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU will be giving this year! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram   Connect with Holland and The Novel Neighbor: Website | Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shannon Navin is a Columbus mom and technology professional who came to Anne with a specific request: to recommend great books that Shannon and her ten-year-old son can enjoy TOGETHER. Anne and Shannon discuss the magic of bonding over books with children, what you need to have a great reading experience at any age, and what it looks like to establish your own reading life. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Katherine should read next! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram   Connect with Shannon: Blog | Twitter | Goodreads Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Anne chats with Rider Strong, a director & screenwriter (you might know him from Boy Meets World) who spends free time reuniting with readerly college friends on his books and reading podcast Literary Disco. As a busy dad, Rider says his reading life “needs work”, and the books he wants to read have multiplied from a single shelf to an entire room. Today Rider and Anne discuss being baffled by YA, the making of a bookish best friend, good TV vs. good books, & much more. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Katherine should read next! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram   Give Rider's podcast Literary Disco a listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alexandra Rodriguez is an English teacher and grad student in the Indianapolis area whose reading life underwent a big change a few years ago. Today, Anne explores how reading 150 books in a year represented a silver lining for Alexandra during a really difficult time, and how a nudge from an old boss pointed her to take her literary life in a new direction.  Also discussed: Diverse Books Club, books that make you laugh and cry almost at the same time, light-hearted books that carry meaningful lessons, and authors that don’t hold anything back.   Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Katherine should read next! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram   Connect with Alexandra at Booked Up Blog - Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram  and Diverse Books Club - Instagram | Goodreads Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Anne chats with Katherine Riling, a mom, math teacher, and new Alaska resident whose go-to genre is historical fiction — but she doesn’t want to read it ALL the time. Katherine's three favorites are seasonally appropriate, and have something strangely specific in common… Also discussed: libraries vs. used bookstores, copycat books that miss the mark, the perfect climate for curling up with a thick book, & more. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Katherine should read next! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anne is joined by a familiar voice -- Gretchen Rubin, author of The Happiness Project and, most recently, The Four Tendencies, a new personality framework in which she investigates how different people—or in today’s case, fictional characters—respond to internal and external expectations. Gretchen visited the show last Fall in Episode 52 for KidWeek, as a VORACIOUS reader of children’s literature. But today Anne and Gretchen broadening her horizons to talk about books for all ages -- and books where specific “tendencies” are on display. Also discussed: literary obsessions, teen historical fiction, human nature, and Gretchen's specialties -- habits and happiness.  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Gretchen should read next! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram Connect with Gretchen: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anne and WSIRN's producer Brenna Frederick take a look back at memorable moments from the first 100 episodes of What Should I Read Next. From behind-the-scenes moments to reading-saved-my-life emails, memorable two-star reviews, bloopers, frequently asked questions, and what Anne wishes she handled differently in the first one hundred episodes. PLUS they give a sneak peek at what lies in WSIRN's future. Readers, thanks for joining us on this amazing ride, and for reminding us today and every Tuesday why it is so good to be among people who are reading. Click over to the podcast website to check out the list of past episodes discussed, and leave us a comment to share your favorite WSIRN stories. Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week Anne chatts with Keith Watts, a Seattle resident who credits Star Wars with making him a reader, and Top Gun for making him a history major. Keith and Anne discuss what it’s like to grow up in a house full of books as a kid, and how he later had to assume responsibility for shaping his own reading life as an adult. Today we get into how and why Keith's preferred reading format has changed with his stage of life, and why he passionately believes one of the most popular books of the last few years is objectively terrible. Anne was especially excited to talk to Keith because he’s devoted to a genre some of you listeners have said doesn’t get enough love here on What Should I Read Next. Today, we’re making amends. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Keith should read next! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram *** Anne's book Reading People: How Seeing the World Through the Lens of Personality Changes Everything released September 19! This is the story of how her long journey digging into 7 popular personality frameworks changed my life for the better, and how you can put those frameworks to work for yourself to make real, lasting change in your life, in your work, and in your relationships without going through quite so many hard knocks yourself. Pick up your copy on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, your local indie, or wherever books are sold. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest, Caroline Weaver, is known as The Pencil Lady, because by day she owns and operates CW Pencil Enterprise, a shop dedicated exclusively to pencils and pencil-related goods in Manhattan’s lower east side.  Caroline loves contemporary literary fiction, books that pack an emotional punch, and that special moment when a book can make her feel something she can’t describe. She and Anne discuss her very personal strategy for finding books perfect for HER, as well as some surprising book-adjacent topics... like the importance of a handwritten letter, and how to pick the perfect pencil for your morning crossword. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles (and pencils!) discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Caroline should read next! Connect with Caroline & CW Pencil Enterprise: Website | Instagram | Twitter Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram  Anne's book Reading People: How Seeing the World Through the Lens of Personality Changes Everything came out September 19! This is the story of how her long journey digging into 7 popular personality frameworks changed her life for the better, and how you can put those frameworks to work for yourself to make real, lasting change in your life, in your work, and in your relationships without going through quite so many hard knocks yourself. Pick up your copy on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, your local indie, or wherever books are sold. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week Anne chats with Rikki and Michaela, two Seattle area friends and serious book lovers who knew each other for YEARS before they discovered they shared a love of reading. In today’s episode Anne, Rikki, and Michaela discuss what it means to live a literary lifestyle, why they believe in reading with the seasons, and how scary it can be to recommend your favorite book to your best friend. They also explore how they create meaningful, interactive experiences to bring favorite books to life, like their literary dinner parties.  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Rikki and Michaela should read together next! Connect with Rikki & Michaela at The Ardent Biblio: Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook  Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram  Anne's book Reading People: How Seeing the World Through the Lens of Personality Changes Everything released September 19! This is the story of how her long journey digging into 7 popular personality frameworks changed my life for the better, and how you can put those frameworks to work for yourself to make real, lasting change in your life, in your work, and in your relationships without going through quite so many hard knocks yourself. Pick up your copy on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, your local indie, or wherever books are sold. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Anne takes you behind the scenes of how her book Reading People came into being. Guided by questions from newsletter subscribers, we're delving into the intricacies of how the book was made, from working with agents and editors, to how the book got matched up with a publisher, to how the cover was designed. Anne also gets personal with an exploration of her writing habits, what she learned along the way, and even where the initial idea came from. Get your copy now at your local indie, Barnes and Noble, Amazon, wherever books are sold. Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram  If you want to chime in for future episodes like this, you can—just sign up for the newsletter at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/newsletter.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’re in serious countdown mode: Anne's book Reading People: How Seeing the World Through the Lens of Personality Changes Everything comes out on Tuesday, September 19. This is the story of how Anne's long journey digging into 7 popular personality frameworks changed her life for the better, and how you can put those frameworks to work for yourself to make real, lasting change in your life, in your work, and in your relationships. Anne had the privilege of narrating the audio version of Reading People herself, and today she's reading the introduction and chapter one just for you. Pre-order your copy now at your local indie, Barnes and Noble, Amazon, or wherever books are sold. Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Anne and guest Nicholas Siegel cover a lot of ground. MFA fiction is a phrase that has been thrown around on the podcast before; today they dive into what exactly that means. Nicholas also pitches a book in a way that TOTALLY changes Anne's perception of it. Also discussed: literary magazines, when to finish a book that you're not enjoying, and stories that are perhaps best described as “just plain weird." Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Nicholas should read next! Connect with Nicholas: Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook| Instagram | WSIRN Instagram  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Anne looks for small business owner Esther Dairiam's origin story. Like so many great plots, Esther’s turns on an epiphany she had on a trip to Paris five years ago. She left convinced that what her adopted city of Chicago needed was its own destination for culinary books and events, and not finding anything like it already in business, she sought to open that business herself.  Anne and Esther talk about food, of course, and the way it brings people together. You'll hear lots of cookbook and food titles today, but they also discuss the characteristics of a great memoir, the inclusivity of food AND books, and the favorite books of Esther's childhood. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Esther should read next! Connect with Esther and her shop Read It & Eat: Facebook |Instagram | Twitter | Website Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest, Kristin Economos, has an incredible story to tell, one many people will resonate with. After experiencing a season of severe anxiety, Kristin says her return from a decade-long reading sabbatical brought her back to life. She got professional help, and she ALSO soothed her anxiety with books. Fictional stories that transported her to other times and places, and nonfiction reads about mental health and anxiety that taught her strategies and helped her feel less alone. Kristin’s experience with reading kicked off a personal project that she calls her "30 by 30" challenge, which Anne investigates in this episode. Also discussed: Kristin’s preferred kind of escapist reading, the kinds of books her book club enjoys, and a bookish brunch that will either have you drooling with envy or planning your own. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Kristin should read next! Connect with Kristin: Instagram Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest pointed out that we haven’t talked to an abundance of East Coast readers, and today we’re making amends. Karen Weiss is a nurse practitioner in Maine who gets many of her best book recommendations from her teenage patients, and she returns the favor — it's rare for a patient of any age to leave her office without a book recommendation. Karen loves chatting books so much she talked herself into a job at her local independent bookstore, so of course I needed to find out her secret. We also discuss Karen's take on the book—or books—she hates, stunning writers, well-written mysteries, and the awful feeling when a bestseller betrays you. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Karen should read next! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest is Bethany Armstrong, a lifelong reader who describes herself as the kind of kid who always had a book in her hand. After studying literature in college, Bethany suffered through a period of bookish burnout. But a surprising thing re-invigorated Bethany’s reading experience... you'll have to listen to find out what it was.  Today Bethany’s reading life is thriving, and in this episode she and Anne dive into the specifics—they talk about how it’s alllllll about the story, and why it’s important to Bethany to keep the balance in her reading life. And when Bethany shares the book she hates … well, she's sure some of you will want to come after her with pitchforks when you find out what it is. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles and articles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Bethany should read next! Connect with Bethany: Website | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, Anne chats with Mary Gaertner, a listener of the show she met at the Popcast Live pre-party. Mary drove to the Louisville show from Cincinnati, and spent the car ride choosing her What Should I Read Next books - 3 books she loved, 1 book she hated, and what she's reading now. When Mary told Anne her books - especially the book she HATED - Anne knew need to come on the show! So … we made it happen. Mary and Anne discuss copycat books, strong female protagonists, escapism, genres that left them dubious, the special feeling of reading a unique book for the first time, and more! Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Mary should read next! Connect with Mary's work at Girls On The Run: Website | Instagram Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today is a What Should I Read Next milestone - our very first mailbag episode! We invited our newsletter subscribers and Instagram followers for their burning questions, and Anne did her best to answer. If you've ever been curious about the inner workings of the WSIRN team, what Anne's typical day looks like, what book changed her life, or how to get on the show yourself, today's episode holds the answers to these questions (and MANY more)! Click here for the full list of titles discussed in today's episode.  Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest is Amena Brown, a spoken-word poet who writes all her poems to jazz music. When she was a little girl, Amena dreamed of becoming a stand-up comedian, and that doesn’t seem like a stretch! Amena brought a lot of big laughs to the show today, as she and Anne discussed their favorite comedic memoirs by fabulously funny women, pushing the limits of a book’s form, and FEELINGS in books that are hard to find words for. Plus, Anne give a book recommendation… that isn’t a book at all. Anne also announces the winners of the Deluxe Reading Journal Kit giveaway! A huge thank-you to everyone who has left iTunes reviews in the past few weeks - it really does make a difference.  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Amena should read next! Connect with Amena: Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook Check out Amena's most recent spoken word album. Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Anne chats with Aaron White, a runner, content developer, INTJ, and married father of two who lives in Minnesota. Aaron's lifetime favorite book will make some of you jump up and cheer, and maybe make some of you yell back at your podcast player (and not in a happy way). Anne and Aaron discuss that AWFUL FEELING when you’ve read what feels like a bunch of underwhelming books in a row, nostalgic fantasy favorites, and how adding a book to your permanent collection can be a Very Big Deal. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Aaron should read next! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Promoting literacy is a both a paycheck and a free-time passion for today's guest. Emily Kinard comes from a family where it’s completely normal for her grandmother and mom to give her book recommendations, and for her to return the favor. And if she sees you a reading a book she loves on the plane, she won’t hesitate to strike up a conversation about it—because there’s nothing like a good book for bringing people together. In today's episode, Anne and Emily discuss the etiquette of writing in books, #SlowReaderProblems, bonding with strangers over a good book, reading the book before you watch the movie, and more.  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Emily should read next! Connect with Emily: Twitter | Goodreads Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

WSIRN goes international once more! Today's guest is Charity Dušíková, an art teacher and mother residing in a small town in the Czech Republic*. Anne and Charity talk about the impact of big life changes on their reading lives, what to do when you HATE your best friend’s favorite book, what it takes for a book that collects dust on your shelves to finally get picked up and read, and more.  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Charity should read next! Connect with Charity on her blog.  Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram  *Charity asked to add the following footnote: "Ostrava is an industrial city with a history of mining and with a steel industry. Though the mining has ceased, the steel industry is still at work (hence the connection to Detroit). My dear Ostrova has much more to offer than just mining and steel!" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anne first met today's guest Shawn Smucker and his wife Maile while they were on an epic cross-country road trip with the whole family, in a big blue bus named Willie. If that sounds like interesting reading, Shawn wrote a book about the experience! It’s called How to Use a Runaway Truck Ramp, and the title is NOT just a metaphor.  Today Anne delves into the special significance certain books and authors hold for Shawn and his family. Other topics covered include the fascinating art of ghost-writing, journaling's place in the writing life, and multi-sensory reading experiences.  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Shawn should read next! Connect with Shawn: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads | Books Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you’re a longtime listener, you’ve heard from today's guest Donna Hetchler before—she hopped on episode 64 and chatted with Anne about the unconventional way she tracks what she reads, in our special episode devoted to how 15 WSIRN listeners track their books. In today's one-of-a-kind episode, Anne investigates Donna's plans for a very special road trip. They also discuss stories with whit and whimsy, books that stand the test of time, and Donna also had a unique request when it came to helping her choose what to read next. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Donna should read next! Check out Donna's blog, I Am Your Rabbit, where she chats about entertainment, personal finance, health, and wellness.  Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest is That-Reader-Who-Is-Impossible-To-Recommend-Books-To... because it seems she's read it EVERYTHING! Claire Diaz Ortiz has a very specific favorite genre that makes her go "crazy with excitement", and Anne faces a real challenge finding any titles under that umbrella that Claire hasn't already devoured.  In this episode, Claire and Anne discuss what it means to be an "obsessive reader" and how to spot others out in the wild, the way our personalities influence how we read, the feeling of hating a book that you know isn't BAD but nevertheless isn't for you, and of course we dive into the genre that makes Claire's heart sing.  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Claire should read next! Connect with Claire: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode, Anne chats with Chelsea Humphrey about what a surprisingly broad category "suspense/thriller" actually is. Of course there's some Gone Girl chatter - but they're going deeper, talk about how psychological suspense connects with the various struggles women experience every day. Also covered: being a sucker for a beautiful book cover and a book with a great map in the front pages, redemptive narratives, and legitimately good romance novels that were not what we were expecting. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Chelsea should read next! Connect with Chelsea: Blog | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why is it SO HARD to describe a book you REALLY LOVE? Anne tries to figure it out with today's guest Cori Jara, a case worker in Eureka CA. Cori is a lifelong reader who loved the written word so much she became a creative writing major. But after college books lost their luster for Cori for a while—reading felt too much like work. So several years ago, she started keeping a detailed spreadsheet about what she was choosing to read. That spreadsheet led to an epiphany: she diagnosed why her reading life had gotten dull, and what she could do about it. In this episode Anne and Cori talk the prosaic, like what it’s like to move to a town with a smaller library, and the unforgettable—like a book that makes you want to skip dinner, bedtime, and the rest of your life until you finish it. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Cori should read next! Connect with Cori on Instagram Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

WARNING: today's episode might make you long for a warm sandy beach, a cozy cabin, or a French villa... wherever your heart longs to vacation, that's where you'll want to be. That's right, Anne is talking SUMMER READING today with the help of WSIRN insider Melissa Klassen! Melissa makes magic happen behind the scenes for WSIRN and the Modern Mrs Darcy blog, so you'll get a little peek behind the curtain.  In this episode, Anne and Melissa discuss Summer’s big releases, the backlist titles they'll be bringing with them to the pool, their favorite Summer reading memories, and at the end there's a Summer Reading Lightning Round that you won't want to miss. We're also giving you a peek behind the scenes of the SIXTH annual Modern Mrs Darcy summer reading guide! Keep your eyes peeled for the guide's release on May 17th. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know about your Summer reading plans! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram    Feels like May 17th is just too far away? Tide yourself over with some throwback reading guides from the past 3 years of Modern Mrs. Darcy:  2016 | 2015 | 2014  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's conversation won't go the direction you're expecting - and we think you're going to love it for just that reason. The guest is Kathleen Grissom, author of the hugely bestselling books The Kitchen House and Glory Over Everything. Kathy (she said we could call her Kathy) is a reading discussion pro: she has talked to more than ONE THOUSAND book clubs since The Kitchen House was published! Today, she and Anne chat about hardcovers versus paperbacks, "reading books like popcorn", historical fiction with a touch of redemption, take a deep dive into Kathy's fascinating intuitive writing process, and of course Anne puts on her matchmaking hat and recommends what Kathy should read next.  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Kathleen should read next! Connect with Kathleen Grissom: Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If YOU have ever dreamed of opening your own bookstore, you’re about to learn exactly how another reader is making that dream come true. Meet Alison Frenzel, a reader from Waco Texas who is in the process of bringing her bookish business idea into the real world!  Alison and Anne discuss their nostalgic reading habits, what books and chocolate cake have in common, and the extroverted reader's perspective. And when it's time to talk bookshop, Alison has some solid business advice for Anne's favorite fictional bookshop owner, Kathleen Kelly. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Alison should read next! Follow Alison's future-bookshop, Fabled: Website | Instagram  Check out Readerly: Shop | Instagram  Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

WSIRN just hosted our first LIVE event at the fabulous bookstore The Novel Neighbor in St Louis. (Many thanks to shop owner Holland Saltsman for having us!). Anne surprised three readers from the audiences with their very own book-matchmaking session! If you weren't able to make it, today's episode will hopefully make you feel just a little bit like you were sitting in the bookshop with Anne, having a group book-therapy session.  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know where you'd like our next liveshow to be! Connect with The Novel Neighbor: Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook. Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest is Dave Harrity, a writer, college professor, and real-life friend of Anne's in Louisville. But there's something else you should know about David, and you have to promise not to click away when we tell you.... It’s National Poetry Month, and Dave is a published poet. We know a lot of readers think they’re just not intopoetry... and after this episode if you’re still not convinced, that’s fine! But Anne and Dave's discussion is totally accessible for non-poetry-lovers. Today, Anne and Dave discuss how to read without "consuming", why poetry is just as valuable to readers as it is to writers, and Dave's origin story not just as a reader but as a budding poet in high school. So place a little faith in Anne, a little faith in Dave, give this episode a listen... and chime in the comments section with your own poetry experience (good or bad)! Click over to the podcast website for the full list of books, poets, and poems discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Dave should read next! You can connect with Dave on his website (be sure to check out his books) and on Instagram. Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest hails from Austin, TX, and enjoys the simple things in life: wine, books, chips & salsa. As host of The Happy Hour podcast, it might be fair to say Jamie Ivey is a happiness "professional." Most of our guests come with anecdotes about childhoods reading under the covers or sneaking books to the dinner table, but today Jamie gives her perspective as a NON-lifetime reader! Anne and Jamie also chat about the 5 different ways you can feel about a book, relationship-centric stories, and good news if you're looking to squeeze more reading time into the day — they share our favorite techniques for reading in the bathtub. ;)  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Jamie should read next! Connect with Jamie: Blog | Podcast | Instagram | Twitter | Goodreads Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever been at a bus stop, on a train, or in a waiting room, and casually craned your neck trying to peek the title of a stranger's book? Going a step further - have you ever straight-up ASKED a stranger about the book they're reading? For most of us, that sounds intimidating. For today's guest, Uli Beutter Cohen, it sounded like a fascinating years-long project. Uli is the creator behind Subway Book Review on Instagram, a project dedicated to sharing book reviews from strangers on the train, accompanied by gorgeous black and white photos. In today's episode, Anne gets a deeper look who Uli is as a reader, creator, and New Yorker, and recommends 3 books she thinks Uli should pick up next.  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of books and articles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Uli should read next! Connect with Uli: Website | Subway Book Review | Eye Level Magazine Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy Tuesday, readers! Meet Madeleine Riley, a 24-year-old special education teacher in New England who runs a colorful bookstagram account, Top Shelf Text, where she celebrates the most beautiful titles she's been reading lately. Today, Anne delves into who Madeleine is as an INFJ "regular reader" who just needs some alone time with a book to unwind. Topics include the struggle to find bookish friends IRL, judging books by their covers, discovering the next mystery comfort-read, and their embarrassing bookworm confessions. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Madeleine should read next! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest is an early member of the WSIRN family. If you were a listener back at the veeeery beginning of our show, you have Knox to thank for getting the first 11 episodes into your ears as our behind-the-scenes producer! You may ALSO know him as the cohost of The POPcast with Knox and Jamie, a weekly dose of pop culture mayhem. In this episode Knox and Anne discuss star-studded audiobooks, how much nostalgia a book can take before it's overkill, and more... while Anne tries to stay cool about her fear of getting RED lighted on a future episode of the POPcast. If you don’t have a clue what we're talking about, you'll just have to hit that PLAY button. ;)  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Knox should read next! Connect with Knox: Website | Twitter | Instagram  Check out The POPcast: iTunes | Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook  Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're delighted to welcome Jessie Weaver on the show for episode 70! Jessie is a married mother of two who loves to read, which sounds pretty normal, right? She lives in the Chattanooga area with her family... AND a gaggle of teenage boys in a private school dorm. Anne and Jessie talk about this very different "lifestyle", how being a dorm parent changes Jessie's reading life, and the brave topic of lifetime favorites. Plus, last year Jessie got most of her book recommendations from the internet and KNOWS she isn’t the only one. What has this meant for her reading life? You'll just have to listen to find out.  About that title: Anne didn't realize until she listened through the final edit that she had inadvertently recommended (okay, gushed about) the same book in three of the last five episodes. Do you know which one it is? She hopes so!  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Jessie should read next! Connect with Jessie: Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Goodreads  Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we welcome the marvelous Carolyn McCready to the show! As an acquisitions editor, reading is truly Carolyn's job. In this episode, Anne takes a little peek behind the scenes of the publishing industry, and of course dive into Carolyn's reading life—like how her reading journey began in a Baskin-Robbins (ice cream and books, does it get better than that?), This Is Us read-alikes, and the many beautiful, perilous ways the library might start to run your life.  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Carolyn should read next! Connect with Carolyn: Instagram Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You may know Laura Tremaine from her former blog Hollywood Housewife... or the Sorta Awesome podcast... or The Smartest Person In The Room podcast... but no matter where you first heard Laura's voice, we can all agree she's a delight. Anne and Laura discuss the author Laura thinks is underappreciated, even though he’s a HUGE commercial success (any guesses?) They also touch on how competition and insecurity in the reading world gets real, Judy Blume, Reese Witherspoon, book clubs, and how plot summaries are THE WORST. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Laura should read next! Connect with Laura: Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook The Smartest Person in the Room podcast: Website | Facebook | Instagram Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest, Eli Sykes, is a food scientist who describes his job as “getting to eat snacks all day,” so it’s safe to say Eli is living the dream. We’ve had a lot of English majors on the show, but this episode looks into what it’s like to be married to an English major, because, you guessed it—Eli’s wife is one. Anne and eli discuss how a teacher sparked the reading flame in his heart (and exactly what book fanned it), a certain unnamed author who gets a lot of love around here, and how he “just wants more Mr. Collins in his reading life.”  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Eli should read next! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's completely awesome guest is Megan Tietz, host of Sorta Awesome podcast. Some things to know about Megan - she’s an enneagram 9 (just like Anne) and a textbook ENFP, she LOVES The Great Gatsby, and she is a bright, bubbly joy to listen to. In this episode, Anne and Megan talk personality types, broken hearts, and how working on a podcast can affect the reading life. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Megan should read next! Connect with Megan: Twitter | Instagram.  Check out Sorta Awesome podcast: Website | iTunes | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter  Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest is Graylin Porter, World-Lit-major-with-a-Masters-in-Modern-&-Contemporary-Lit-turned-children’s-librarian who is expecting a new addition to her family very very soon (hint: it’s a baby!). Graylin shares a peek behind the librarian curtain, including the struggles of keeping a children’s section stocked, what she will miss most about the library when she leaves her position later this year, and the one genre her book club knows they can count on her to read.  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Graylin should read next! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's time for something a bit different - in today's "from the mailbag" episode, Anne discusses the myriad ways readers track their book lives, from Goodreads, to bullet journals, to excel spreadsheets, to #bookstagram. Fifteen WSIRN listeners' favorite recording techniques are highlighted, and Anne shares a little bit about her own favorite tracking strategies.  For pictures from our listeners and even more info, visit the corresponding blog post on Modern Mrs. Darcy. Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest is Elise Blaha Cripe, who you may know as the creative professional behind the Get to Work Book planner, or the host of podcast Elise Gets Crafty. Most importantly, Elise is one of those people who can’t NOT talk about books—who loves to be reading, and loves to share what she reads. Today we talk about Elise’s love of big, thick books, the three places she gets her book recommendations, and how the true sign of a great book is if it makes Elise forget she has a phone. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Elise should read next! Connect with Elise: Website | Instagram | Goodreads. Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hello readers, it's a very special Tuesday! We have officially reached What Should I Read Next's Anniversary episode. It's been a full year since Episode 1! There are 61 episodes under our belt, and in 52 of those episodes Anne has recommended what our fascinating guests should read next. But as the host of this show, she's never sat in the hot seat herself. Until today. For our anniversary, we’re doing this special episode of What Should Anne Should Read Next, so you can hear her talk a little more at length about what I love, and maybe what she hates, and why, and so we can share YOUR recommendations for my very own TBR.  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Anne should read next! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram   Have a question or comment for the show? Email brenna@modernmrsdarcy.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we’re catching up with the very first guest of What Should I Read Next! Even if you're a longtime listener, you still might not recognize his voice... and that’s because the first time Anne recorded this show, it was on her iPhone, in a moving vehicle, in the middle of nowhere, and the guest? Her husband, Will Bogel. That episode never aired, and the file got trashed a long time ago. But today Will is back to celebrate the anniversary of the show he helped test-drive a year ago! It's been a fun journey so far, and we at WSIRN are so grateful that you've taken the ride with us.  Here's to the next year of WSIRN, readers! Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Will should read next! Connect with Will: Twitter Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy 2017, listeners! We have a DYNAMIC episode to kick off the WSIRN New Year. Today’s guest is Melissa Joulwan. If you already know Melissa, it’s probably as the author of her popular cookbooks (and Bogel Family favorites) Well Fed, Well Fed 2, and Well Fed Weeknights. But that’s just the beginning of her bio, which is one of the most interesting you'll ever read. She’s a retired Roller Girl. Prague is her favorite city. Duran Duran is her favorite band. And her life is also made better by her husband Dave, sports movies, leopard print, lousy truck stop (decaf) coffee, bear crawl, and Jane Eyre.  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Melissa should read next! Connect with Melissa: Website | Twitter | Instagram Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our guest this week is Danielle Mayfield. Danielle lives in Portland, OR with her husband and two small children. You may know her as the author of Assimilate or Go Home: Notes from a Failed Missionary on Rediscovering Faith,a book of essays that was recently released by HarperOne. Danielle often writes about heavy hitting topics like refugees, theology, and downward mobility, but today she and Anne are running away from the heavy stuff and are searching for good comfort reads instead. They're chatting about literary baby names, the wildly differing opinions people have about what makes a book "escapist", and book scenes so jarring they had to set them aside... forever.  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Danielle should read next! Connect with Danielle: Website | Twitter | Facebook Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest is Jamie Durham, a full-time missionary living in Tijuana, Mexico. Jamie and her well-traveled family of 5 have to cross an international border to get to a their nearest library! In this episode, Jamie and Anne dive into how this unconventional setup changes the way Jamie approaches her to-be-read list, the dreaded "you have hit your hold limit" library message, reading difficult literature as a Highly Sensitive Person, and more!  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Jamie should read next! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest is Shaney Swift, a massage therapist and social justice advocate from Chicago, Illinois. If you’ve been around What Should I Read Next for a while, you know Anne can be a bit of a personality-type geek, and Shaney shares that enthusiasm -- so prepare for a lot of nerding out! Today Anne and Shaney discuss scanning and deep-diving reading styles, books that help us understand our differences, and what to read next when you feel like your life is in limbo.  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Shaney should read next! Connect with Shaney: Twitter | Instagram! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is a WSIRN first— a repeat guest! Today Anne chats with friend of the show and bookstore owner Holland Saltsman about everything you didn't know you wanted to know about opening an independent bookstore, how to support indies this holiday season, the best three books we each read this year, and their favorite bookish gifts for this holiday season (and all year 'round.) We hope you enjoy this episode, and get a ton of great holiday gift ideas for the readers in your life. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what books you're gifting this year! Check out The Novel Neighbor website, and follow them on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook.  Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram    If you want to find EVEN MORE great new gift-worthy titles, check out the Fall Releases episode of WSIRN in which Holland and Anne gushed about all the new treasures that hit bookshelves recently. And don't miss the full MMD 2016 Gift Guide for Book Lovers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Around here, we don’t think you need an excuse to love Jane Austen, but boy does today's guest Rebecca Smith have a great one -- she is Jane Austen's great great great great great niece! Rebecca is a longtime reader, a former writer in residence at Jane Austen’s House Museum in Chawton, and she currently teaches creative writing in the U.K. She’s the author of Jane Austen's Guide to Modern Life's Dilemmas and the recently published book The Jane Austen Writer’s Club.  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Rebecca should read next! Connect with Rebecca: Bloomsbury webpage | Twitter Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we're back to literary matchmaking, with listener Melodee Skiles here to representing all the avid audiobook lovers who want to know what to LISTEN to next!  Melodee is a stay-at-home mom who owns an online literature tutorial business. Books are (clearly) her bag, and while she's taking a short break from tutoring, she wants to revitalize her love of literature by reading outside the bounds of the texts she teaches at work. Like many of us, some of Melodee's warmest memories are of her parents reading aloud to her, so today she and Anne are delving into what her favorites have been, what her least favorites have been, and what brilliant audiobook discoveries are right around the corner. (Wink, wink.) Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Melodee should read next! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram    WSIRN highly recommends Audible as an accessible, bountiful resource for audiobooks online. Right now, you can get your first audiobook FREE, along with a free 30-day trial. Go to http://www.audibletrial.com/ReadNext to get your free download. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Here to help close out the Reading For A Lifetime week is Jenny Williams, who illustrates beloved literary heroines for a living as the charming artist and entrepreneur behind Carrot Top Paper Shop. In this episode, Anne and Jenny talk all about why we love our literary heroines of literature so much (think Anne, Elizabeth, Jane, Hermione), wrestle with what makes for a modern heroine. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know about your own favorite literary heroines! Connect with Jenny: Instagram | Twitter | Goodreads! Check out Carrot Top Paper Shop: Facebook | Pinterest | Instagram. Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Day 4 of our special Reading For A Lifetime series on WSIRN, and if our comment section has made one thing known, it's this: Adults LOVE Kid Lit. Not just for kids, not just in a theoretical sense, but in honest-to-goodness, just-for-the-joy-of-it, everyday-reading-life practice. The guest here to chat with Anne about reading KidLit for fun? The beloved and oft-requested Gretchen Rubin! You all know her as the author of The Happiness Project, Happier at Home, and Better than Before, but what you mightnot know is Gretchen is a voracious reader of children's literature who is a member of THREE book clubs dedicated solely to children's lit! In this episode, Gretchen and Anne explore how Kid Lit transcends age group, why you should giving yourself permission to indulge in books written for children, how to find other adults with the same passion, and then they drop a blue million great book recommendations on you. Ready your TBRs, readers.  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what kidlit titles you have loved reading as an adult! Connect with Gretchen: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Day 3 of our special Reading For A Lifetime series is all about "guilty pleasure" kid lit - the series we read and re-read not because they were Great Literature, but because they were gosh-darn fun! Here to talk about not-so-serious gateway children's literature are Jack Shepherd and Tanner Greenring, hosts of The Babysitters Club Club podcast. They each have their own story of how they found the series, and why—as thirty-something men—they've chosen to devote a large chunk of their time and attention to the books. In this episode Anne, Jack, and Tanner dive into what this series means to readers of all ages, why these books have such staying power, which babysitter they most identify with, and what Jack and Tanner are reading when they're not reading The Babysitters Club. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know if your childhood favorites foretold the genres you enjoy now as an adult. Connect with Jack: Twitter Connect with Tanner: Twitter Check out The Babysitters Club Club: iTunes, follow the show on Twitterand Facebook Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Day 2 of our Reading For A Lifetime series is about encouraging middle school and young adult kids to indulge in great books, and our guest Leigh Collazo has a LOT of wisdom to share on that topic. Leigh is a school librarian who serves children from over 30 different countries at an international school in China. Today she shares all about why the middle school years are her favorite when it comes to finding the right books for the right readers. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what books have hooked the kids in your life. Connect with Leigh: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads | Pinterest.  Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today kicks off our special WSIRN 5-day miniseries: What Should I Read Next for Kids, and Kids at Heart. We’re focusing on a variety of young and young at heart topics this week: children’s literature, coming of age stories, literary heroines, kid lit for grown-ups, and more. Who better to jump-start the series than Sarah Mackenzie? Sarah is a friend, devoted reader, and Kid Lit Expert Extraordinaire. You may know her as the host of the Read Aloud Revival podcast and site, or as the author of Teaching from Rest: A Homeschooler's Guide to Unshakable Peace. Her mission is to help YOU help the kids in your life fall in love with books, and this episode will leave you feeling inspired and empowered to do just that. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know about your favorite read-along memory - whether it's someone reading to you, or reading to a child in your life. Connect with Sarah: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram Check out Sarah's free read-aloud booklist. Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week guest Maxwell Dunn (WellDoneBooks on YouTube) introduces Anne to a whole new wonderful world of book lovers online—the Booktube community! Booktube is known best for its voracious YA fans, but there's a book vlogger out there for every literary palate. Max is a great example of this; his videos cover serious award winners, challenging experimental works, and deep dives into substantial modern literature. In today's episode, Max & Anne discuss stories with unique structural elements, books that swing wildly between 1 and 5 star ratings, and the best way to find a Booktube creator who shares your taste.  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Max should read next! Connect with Max:  YouTube | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's bibliotherapy time! Today's guest is Erin Swann, is an attorney who lives in Greenville, South Carolina with her family. Erin's always been a reader, but when she went through a major transition a few years back she rediscovered the therapeutic value of a welcoming book. Join Erin and Anne as they discuss armchair travel, fictional characters as friends, and more.  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Erin should read next! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we have a special episode: we're revisiting seven guests from previous episodes of the show to find out what they actually did read next. What are they reading now? What did they love? And what did they, uh, not love as much? Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode. What book recommendations YOU have picked up after listening to the show! Did you love them? Hate them? Let Anne know in the comments on the podcast site. Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest is Ana Salazar. Ana is a Columbian who’s now living in Peru, and she’s been, as she says, "absolutely obsessed” with reading for her whole life, so much so that her parents had to physically drag her away from bookstores when she was growing up. Anne and Ana discuss the joys and challenges of reading across borders, unpack Ana's love for the genre she's been loving recently, and explore why a Kindle is an absolutely magical device for international readers.  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Ana should read next! Connect with Ana: Blog | Twitter | Instagram Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we meet a indie bookstore owner and kindred bookish spirit, Annie Jones. In this episode, Anne and Annie talk about her wildly unlikely path to bookstore ownership, her love of dysfunctional family literature, and the way meeting an author in person can change the way you experience a book. And unlike a lot of WSIRN guests -- Annie is not afraid to say she hates a book (or... a lot of books.)  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Annie should read next! Connect with Annie: Website | Instagram Check out Annie's bookshop The Bookshelf and her podcast From The Front Porch. Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we're happy to welcome reader and podcaster Sarah Stewart Holland to the show. You may already know Sarah from her blog Bluegrass Redhead or her show, Pantsuit Politics. Sarah is drawn to nonfiction and wants to read more fiction, but tends to grab what's new and hot in fiction for fear of missing out, instead of intentionally selecting it. One of her big strengths is "input," and she loves reading about all kinds of topics to scratch that informational itch. And she's obsessed with Hamilton, so of course we go there. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Sarah should read next! Connect with Sarah:  Twitter | Instagram | Facebook Check out Pantsuit Politics: Website | Twitter Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we fellow podcaster Erik Fisher to the show! Erik is known as the productivity guru because of his wonderful podcast Beyond the To Do List, the first podcast Anne ever listened to, AND the first podcast she ever appeared on!  Erik is a HUGE reader, and in this episode we talk about how he’s made the switch back to paper books after a flirtation with e-reading, personality types, and how he avoids wasting time on bad books. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Erik should read next! Connect with Erik:  Twitter | Instagram Check out Erik's productivity podcast Beyond The To-Do List. Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's bonus podcast episode of What Should I Read Next is focused on fall's hot new releases. Bookstore owner Holland Saltsman of The Novel Neighbor (from yesterday's Ep 40—listen here!) and Anne talk about the titles we've read and are psyched about, plus the ones they can't wait to get their hands on. Anne also brings you short interviews she did in Savannah with friends and authors (including Susan Meissner, Ariel Lawhon, and Greer Macallister) who share which books they can't wait to read this season. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know about your fall reading plans! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When Anne first thought of starting a podcast, her bookstore-owning friend Holland Saltsman was one of the very first people she wanted to have on. And she was one of the first people Anne interviewed for the show. And the audio quality on that recording was so poor Anne was terrified to give it another go for almost a full year. Holland is one of Anne's favorite people to talk books with, because she's smart, and funny, and tells it like it is. She's been excited about this one for a long time.    Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Holland should read next! Connect with Holland: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we welcome Melody Warnick to the show! She’s a Blacksburg-based author, who  has been tracking her reading in an excel spreadsheet since 2004. If you find that intimidating, don’t worry—Melody’s not analytical about choosing what to read next (wait until you to hear how she approaches a big stack of library books.) Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Melody should read next! Connect with Melody: Website | Journalism | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Anne chats with Anissa Davis, a family physician who lives with her family in California. She likes smart, funny, contemporary fiction with diverse protagonists, and she wants to be blown away by more books. Many of you will relate when Anissa says sometimes finding great fiction feels like kissing a lot of frogs before you find your prince.  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Anissa should read next! Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kurt and Kristin are a husband and wife who want to read more together. Their question for Anne is a fun twist on a familiar theme — “What should WE read next?” Kristin has been a lifetime lover of books; Kurt has only recently become a serious reader (thanks in part to 15 years of nudging from his wife). They want to find books that they can read and talk about together! Both enjoy high-quality fiction, but you can probably guess which one of them loves Blood Meridian and which one loves A Tree Grows in Brooklyn. Anne's challenge is to help them find books in the tiny sliver of their overlapping interests. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Kristin and Kurt should read together next! Connect with Kristin on her blog Home Sweet Life. Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Tuesday, and time for a new episode of What Should I Read Next! Our guest today is Tiffany King, a dear friend you might know from her food blog, Eat At Home. Tiffany is a busy woman -- a homeschool mom for 19 years, and the creator of her own business -- so when she reads, she craves something cozy and comforting. "“I don’t tend to go really deep with my fiction," she says, "and I don’t feel bad about that." If you love comforting fiction with mouth-watering culinary themes, today's episode is just for you. Grab a snack and join us!  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Tiffany should read next! Connect with Tiffany: Eat At Home | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our guest today is Katherine Willis Pershey. Katherine is a friend whose taste Anne trusts: she's recommended several excellent titles to Anne over the years (and we talk about a handful of those in this episode). Today it's Anne's turn to do the recommending. If you love books that dive into human nature, authors that approach serious subjects through the back door, a good redemption story, or just excellent storytelling, redemption stories, there's sure to be a book for you in today's episode.  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Katherine should read next! Connect with Katherine: Website | Book | Twitter | Instagram Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our guest today is Rose Booth, a technology merchandising director and cinephile who sometimes "feels like she's dating books." Rose loves female protagonists who flout convention and books where reality meets fiction, but she's also eager to fall in love with titles from one popular genre that she hasn't had any luck with—yet. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Rose should read next! Connect with Rose: Blog | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we have a very special episode: Anne is chatting again with seven guests from the first twenty-three episodes of the show to find out what they actually did read next. What books did they read? What did they love? What did they hate? (Because yeah, that happened.)  This episode is tons of fun—I hope you enjoy it as much we enjoyed making it.  Previous episodes we're circling back to:  • Ep 11: What's going on beneath the surface with Meredith Schwarz • Ep 13: Memoir, creativity, talent, and more memoir with Ed Cyzewski • Ep 14: A snob-free approach to reading with Caroline Starr Rose • Ep 16: Fascinating premises in dystopian fiction with Grace Martin • Ep 17: Smart, slightly eccentric, diverse books with Andi Cumbo-Floyd • Ep 18: Compelling, character-driven books steeped in time and place with Jessica Turner • Ep 23: Honeymoon reading with Mallory Rees Also mentioned in this episode: • How to take a reading vacation. • For an adult reader, the possible verdicts are five. • Find out more about Read Savannah with Liane Moriarty (and me!) right here Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Anne chats with Julie Smith, who you may know from her delightful travel blog Drive on the Left. Julie is an enthusiastic reader. She’s also an American expat living in London, and while this sounds awfully glamorous, Anne was surprised to hear that while her London life has its joys, it presents challenges to her reading life as well. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Julie should read next! Connect with Julie: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Anne chats with Adam Verner. Adam reads for a living -- literally. When he was a kid and people asked him what he wanted to do when he grew up he’d say read books. So Adam grew up and turned his theatrical background into a job as a professional audiobook narrator. Adam is also one of the few readers who's been decisive/brave/committed enough to choose his three all-time favorite books for the show. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Adam should read next! Connect with Adam: Blog | Audiography Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Anne chats with Amy Johnson, who grew up in a big family in a small town in rural Colorado. (Amy says there were literally more books in her home than people in her town.) These days, Amy lives in Salt Lake City with her family, and describes herself as an ISTJ Type A Upholder. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Amy should read next! Connect with Amy: Blog | Instagram | Twitter Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Anne chats with Stacey Loscalzo, a mother of two girls, book reviewer for Great New Books, and former reading specialist in New Jersey, just outside New York City. Stacey always has a book going, and she’s looking for titles that will compel her to READ when she has ten minutes to spare—instead of checking Facebook. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Stacey should read next! Connect with Stacey: Instagram | Twitter Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Anne chats with Andrea Griffith, a former medical librarian, mom of two daughters, and independent bookstore owner, and she came to me with a plea: she misses reading at whim, is craving depth, and wants help finding great books that aren't relentlessly new, new, new.  Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Andrea should read next! Connect with Andrea: Instagram | Browsers Bookshop Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Anne chats with Kendra Adachi, who you may know from her blog, The Lazy Genius Collective, or her Lazy Genius podcast. She’s a mom of three in North Carolina who wants to find books that are good enough to make her turn off the tv, which is saying something because she loves her tv. Click over to the podcast website for the full list of titles discussed in this episode, and leave us a comment to let us know what YOU think Kendra should read next! Connect with Kendra: Blog | Podcast Connect with Anne: Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | WSIRN Instagram    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices