

Close Reads Podcast
Goldberry Studios
Close Reads is a book-club podcast for the incurable reader co-hosted by David Kern, Heidi White, Sean Johnson, and occasionally Tim McIntosh. We read good books and talk about them.
This is a show for amateurs in the best sense. This is not an experts show: we’re book lovers, book enthusiasts. Our goal is have empathetic and intelligent conversations about good books.
Close Reads is produced by Goldberry Studios, the podcast wing of Goldberry Books, a family-run indie bookshop in Concord, NC. closereads.substack.com
This is a show for amateurs in the best sense. This is not an experts show: we’re book lovers, book enthusiasts. Our goal is have empathetic and intelligent conversations about good books.
Close Reads is produced by Goldberry Studios, the podcast wing of Goldberry Books, a family-run indie bookshop in Concord, NC. closereads.substack.com
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 15, 2020 • 1h 6min
Anne of Green Gables: Chapters 28-32
In this episode David, Tim, and Heidi, chat about the melancholy that sets into the book during this section, Anne's increasing maturity, the "boat springs a leak" scene, the "lessons" and morals Anne has learned, and much more. Remember to rate and review wherever you get podcasts! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe

Apr 8, 2020 • 1h 18min
Anne of Green Gables: Chapters 22-27
In this episode David, Heidi, and Tim chat about the goodness of Anne's imagination, whether it ever serves negative purposes, and a whole bunch of about kinds of reading. Also other stuff. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe

Apr 1, 2020 • 1h 7min
Anne of Green Gables: Chapters 17-21
Join David, Heidi, and Tim as they discuss Anne's continued adventures with Diana, the way the book changes structurally during these chapters, and Lucy Maud Montgomery's view of Anne's imagination. If you like this episode please be sure to rate and review wherever you access podcasts! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe

Mar 27, 2020 • 1h 18min
Bonus Episode: Discussing the new movie version of Emma
There's a new movie version of Emma out now, and we're here to break it down. It stars Anya Joy-Taylor and Johnny Flynn, and is directed by Autumn deWilde and it's fascinating and we've got thoughts. So join us as we talk casting, adaptation, filmmaking, acting, and how we rate movies. It's a bonus episode just for you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe

Mar 26, 2020 • 1h 9min
Anne of Green Gables: Chapters 13-16
Self-isolate along with David, Heidi, and Tim as they chat some more about that delightful Anne with an "E." This week they discuss the introduction of Gilbert Blythe and the famous "carrots scene, Anne's particular brand of drama, the unique stakes of the novel, and much more. And remember: if you like this episode you can rate and review wherever you get podcasts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe

Mar 19, 2020 • 1h 7min
Anne of Green Gables: Chapters 7-12
Chatting from their Covid-19-related self-isolation, David, Heidi, and Tim discuss the unique nature of Anne of Green Gables, the delightfulness of Anne, Anne's relationship with Marilla, the similarities between Anne and Rachel Lynde, and much more. If you like this episode, please be sure to rate and review wherever you get podcasts. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe

Mar 12, 2020 • 1h 9min
Anne of Green Gables: Chapters 1-6
It's time to make friends with Anne with an E. In this episode, Heidi explains why this book changed her life (she's read it soooo many times), David explains why Matthew and Anne's relationship is meaningful, and Tim dives into a story that's new to him. Remember to spread the word by rating and reviewing wherever you listen to podcasts! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe

Mar 5, 2020 • 1h 34min
The Catcher in the Rye: Q&A Episode
It's that time again: let's answer YOUR questions. Join David, Tim, and Heidi as they contemplate topics like Salinger geeks, Holden's affection for the nuns, the ugly vandalism at Phoebe's school, Holden Caulfield on screen, DB's role, and much more. And remember to rate and review wherever you get podcasts! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack.com/subscribe

Feb 28, 2020 • 1h 24min
The Catcher in the Rye: Final Chapters
The discussion highlights the tension between Holden Caulfield's cynicism and idealism as he navigates complex relationships, particularly with his sister Phoebe. The podcast dives into themes of trust and betrayal in Holden’s interactions with Mr. Antolini, raising questions about reliability and trauma. It also examines the dark influence of literature, linking 'The Catcher in the Rye' to notable tragedies. Additionally, the speakers celebrate the book’s legacy while contemplating the evolving perceptions of teacher-student dynamics.

Feb 20, 2020 • 1h 12min
The Catcher in the Rye: Chapters 10-17
Holden's unique language and diction take center stage, revealing his emotional struggles. The red hunting hat symbolizes vulnerability and connection, while a whimsical chat about winter ducks offers a deep dive into loneliness and change. The complexity of Holden's character unfolds as the hosts explore his cynical exterior hiding deeper trauma. Humorous exchanges about whistling lead to serious reflections on language's connection to self, making for a rich discussion on identity and disillusionment in a post-war society.