What Should I Read Next?

Celebrate a year of literary gems as Anne shares her favorite books from 2025! Discover how she defines 'best' reads with surprising emotional depth. Enjoy highlights like the unconventional structure of 'Ling' and the soulful reflections in 'A Physical Education.' From heartwarming family sagas to laugh-out-loud titles, there's something for every reader. Get a sneak peek of exciting 2026 releases and join the discussion about what made this past year unforgettable in the world of books.

The team reflects on their reading journeys from the past year, sharing surprises like a vampire book streak and unexpected favorites that reignited their literary passion. They discuss the challenges of buddy reads and how personal circumstances, such as recovery from cancer, influenced their choices. Tips like prioritizing TBR lists and matching book formats to personal preferences emerge. The excitement for new authors leads to a treasure trove of five-star reads, setting a hopeful tone for the future.

Join Callie Dean, a children’s book author and violinist from Shreveport, Louisiana, as she shares her creative reading challenge for 2026. Callie details her plan to read one book for each letter of the alphabet, diving into the intriguing rules and challenges this presents. She explores how structured limits can enhance reading experiences, while also maintaining a flexible approach to her selections. The conversation sparkles with exciting book recommendations and insights into her favorite reads, like 'Station Eleven' and cozy fantasies.

Kate Mosesso, a Chicago-based reader and improv comedian, shares her unique journey of reading books recommended by loved ones since 2021. She reflects on the power of connections through literature and considers adding a new twist to her project for 2026, potentially involving celebrity recommendations. Kate faces the challenge of finding 'best in class' books amidst genre saturation, all while desiring stories that resonate with her tastes. Dive into her favorites, distinctive recommendations, and the joys of community-inspired reading!

Laura Howard, an Atlanta faculty developer and part-time professor, reveals her journey in discovering her preference for factual historical narratives over historical fiction. She shares her reading habits, which include audiobooks and engaging with her book club. Discussing her desire to fill gaps in her historical knowledge, Laura expresses a keen interest in concise nonfiction. The conversation includes exciting recommendations like 'The Ghost Map' and 'Tunnel 29,' both exploring captivating historical moments.

Breaking into a new genre can feel intimidating. Today Anne is talking with a reader who is keen to explore cozy mysteries, but isn't sure where to begin. Amber Richcreek lives in Bellingham, Washington with her family, where she’s a pre-k teacher and enjoys baking and photography in her spare time. She’s also a lifelong reader and a fan of emotional, character-driven contemporary fiction.  Lately Amber’s been intrigued by the cozy mystery genre, but when she turns to the internet for tips on where to start, she’s quickly overwhelmed. Amber would love to get acquainted with this genre and better understand how to navigate it as a new reader in this space, and Anne is here to help. We also know that many readers are drawn to cozy titles this time of year, so it feels like a great time to explore the various subgenres of cozy mystery. Find the titles mentioned today and leave your recommendations for Amber on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/503. Our shop is full of both new and returning favorites right now. Our much-loved tote bag makes a great gift—or gift-wrapping—for your favorite reader. Plus we have our new collection of Leuchtturm 1917 embossed journals in custom colors selected by our team along with t-shirts and stickers, signed copies of Anne's books, buttons and pencils, and more. Check it all out at modernmrsdarcy.com/shop and if you’re ordering for holiday delivery, please place your order as early as you can. There's still time to call and share your stories for our upcoming episode. To tell us about a favorite title you discovered thanks to What Should I Read Next, please call us by November 23 at 502-627-0663 and leave us a short voicemail. Please call from a quiet place so we can hear everything you have to say and our listeners can hear you well on the show. We can't wait to listen to your messages. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this lively discussion, wedding photographer and book club leader Meredith Amadee shares her journey of starting a book club during the pandemic. She delves into what sparks engaging conversations, highlighting the importance of thought-provoking reads. Meredith passionately discusses her book exchange traditions and seeks the perfect literary gifts for her club members. Alongside insightful recommendations tailored for different tastes, this conversation brims with inspiration for anyone looking to gift a book this season.

Amy St. Amand, a primary care clinical pharmacist from Rhode Island, dives into her journey of crafting a personal curriculum to explore her eclectic interests like music, food science, and Greek mythology. She shares her love for narrative nonfiction and audiobooks, including her recent modules on vocabulary and psychology. The discussion reveals her excitement for Fleetwood Mac, cultural food histories, and even learning American Sign Language. Tune in to discover how Amy blends reading with creative projects to foster lifelong learning!

Michelle Acierno Loftus, a veterinary radiologist and avid reader, returns to reflect on her evolving reading life since her last visit. She discusses her love for YA books and how her recent shift toward nonfiction and character-driven fiction has enriched her experiences. Michelle shares insights from attending author events and the emotional weight of motherhood-themed books. With Anne's tailored recommendations, they explore how diverse reading can deepen appreciation and understanding of life's seasons.

In this engaging discussion, acclaimed author Kevin Wilson dives into his unique writing process and the family-centered themes in his fiction. He shares the inspiration behind his latest novel, Run for the Hills, touching on topics like found family and personal history. Wilson reveals how he blends humor and weirdness to create emotional depth, discusses his quirky setting choices—including a PT Cruiser—and reflects on his background as a reader. He also hints at his next project involving a teenage boy and a literature teacher. A delightful conversation for book lovers!