What Should I Read Next?

Dana Reams, a stay-at-home mom from Southern Indiana and creator of cozy reader gatherings, shares her delightful concept for hosting warm retreats. She discusses creating immersive reading experiences that foster community and connection. The conversation highlights themed snacks, crafts, and poetic engagements, while also touching on the challenges of book journaling and women's health. Dana introduces enchanting reads, including 'The Witch Hat Atelier,' and discusses a whimsical orc trading mercenary life for a coffee shop, inviting listeners to explore their own cozy reading adventures.

Jessica Crockett, a French-to-English patent translator from Chicago, shares her struggles with short story collections. She seeks advice on how to enhance her reading experience. The discussion dives into what makes short stories shine, exploring interconnected tales versus standalone narratives. They examine the allure of short stories for busy readers and recommend strategies for maintaining engagement. Jessica learns about the emotional impact of curated collections and the benefits of audiobooks to deepen her appreciation for the art of short storytelling.

Nikki May, bestselling author of "Wahala" and "This Motherless Land," delves into her reimagining of Jane Austen's "Mansfield Park." She shares her personal connections to Austen and how themes of belonging and social class shape her narrative. The conversation touches on the interplay of race and identity through family dynamics, highlighted by the complex bond between cousins Funke and Liv. Nikki also discusses how cultural culinary experiences influence identity and character development, enriching both her stories and Austen's timeless themes.

Melanie McNair, a book lover and former Malaprop's Bookstore employee, shares her fond memories of Asheville and the literary community. They discuss the impact of Hurricane Helene on the region and encourage support for local charities. Melanie highlights favorite North Carolina authors and books, including powerful female-centric literature. The conversation also touches on an unforgettable literary matchmaking event that underscores the joy of personalized reading recommendations, showcasing the charm of Asheville's book scene.

Emma Sweeney, an Ontario reader and local police communicator, dives into the world of horror-infused literature without the nightmares. She shares her quest for haunting yet accessible reads that spark reflection. The conversation explores mindful reading practices, helping listeners choose books that truly resonate with their tastes. From discussing personal reading journeys to the charm of Southern Gothic tales, Emma and her host empower readers to confidently select their next page-turner.

Megan Reilly, a theater designer and college professor, shares her love for reading as a stress management tool. She and the host dive into the theme of haunting literature and how certain books linger in the mind. They explore intelligent thrillers that challenge the boundaries of suspense while discussing emotionally impactful narratives like 'God of the Woods' and 'All the Colors of the Dark.' Megan also reflects on her experiences with reading challenges, balancing professional life with her passion for literature, and the importance of character depth in thrillers.

Anne, a prominent participant in the Fall Book Preview event, dives into the excitement of this year's book selections. She discusses the evolution of fall reading lists and highlights three standout titles, including Danzy Senna's 'Colored Television.' The conversation contrasts a satirical portrayal of a screenwriter's life with a poignant narrative born from real medical challenges. Anne also invites listeners to explore themes of self-care and community engagement in literature, making this fall's reading palette both diverse and engaging.

In this conversation, Evie, a Bostonian who recently relocated to Greece, shares her challenges with consistently rating books, often landing in a frustrating three-star zone. She and Anne dig deep into whether her expectations are too high or if she's struggling to find what she truly enjoys. They discuss the emotional weight of literary experiences and brainstorm a two-dimensional rating system to enhance her engagement with books. Evie's journey reflects the joy and complexity of navigating her new life while exploring her evolving reading preferences.

In this engaging discussion, Karen Gold, an English teacher and academic dean at one of the oldest boarding schools in the U.S., navigates her love for print books alongside the convenience of e-reading. She shares her reader's dilemma of juggling physical books on her shelves with the ease of digital formats. The conversation also touches on fostering a love for reading in students and the emotional journeys novels can evoke—exploring our shared human experiences through literature. Expect insights on balancing both reading formats and cultivating a joy for storytelling.

Hunter, an avid fan of literary fiction pursuing a project of reading National Book Award longlisted titles, shares his unique reading journey. He discusses his love for messy narratives and the benefits of rereading books that initially didn't resonate. The conversation dives into the nuances of character perspectives in notable works like 'Fates and Furies' and the emotional depth found in short stories. Hunter seeks writing that is striking and unconventional, leading to a wealth of intriguing book recommendations.