The Bookshop Podcast

Send us a textHi,This week, I'm in conversation with one of my favorite authors, Jan Carson. We talk about her latest release, Quickly, While They Still Have Horses, how growing up during the Troubles in Ireland fueled her passion for reaching across divided communities through writing and the arts, and how the Irish writing community supports fledgling writers.  Enjoy,Mandy xoJan Carson is a writer and community arts facilitator based in Belfast. She is the author of several short story collections and novels, including Malcolm Orange Disappears, The Raptures, The Last Resort, and The Fire Starters, winner of the EU Prize for Literature. She has won the Harper’s Bazaar short story competition and been shortlisted for many awards, including the BBC National Short Story Award, the Seán Ó Faoláin Short Story Prize, and the Irish Book Awards Novel of the Year. Jan is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature and her writing has been translated into over a dozen languages, appeared in numerous journals, and been frequently broadcast on BBC Radio. Quickly, While They Still Have Horses is her first book to be published in North America.Jan CarsonQuickly, While They Still Have Horses, Jan CarsonJan Carson's in-person event at El Encanto, Santa Barbara**To learn more about Jan’s short story writing workshop, please email Mandy at mandyjacksonbeverly@gmail.comJan Carson's earlier episode on The Bookshop PodcastOrla MackeyLouise KennedyAgatha Christie BooksBarbara PymShirley Jackson Books Support the showThe Bookshop PodcastMandy Jackson-BeverlySocial Media Links

Send us a textIn this episode, I'm in conversation with Kathleen Caldwell, the passionate owner of A Great Good Place for Books in Montclair Village, Oakland, who opens up about her incredible journey in the book industry. From her college days navigating aisles at Crown Books to orchestrating author events at prestigious bookstores like Shakespeare and Company, Kathleen’s story is one of resilience, community, and an unwavering love for books. She shares the heartfelt tale of taking over the store after the unexpected passing of her dear friend and previous owner, Debi Echlin. Hear about the thoughtful changes Kathleen has made, including expanding the children's section and the deep-rooted connections she’s built through fundraisers and school donations.Get ready to discover the essence of Montclair's literary heartbeat and the importance of building relationships with independent booksellers. Kathleen offers invaluable insights for authors, highlighting the significance of community support and engagement. Learn about memorable author events, including a thrilling encounter with Buzz Aldrin, and get Kathleen’s inside scoop on her favorite reads from authors like Matt Haig and Taylor Jenkins Reid. This episode not only celebrates the magic of finding the perfect book but also underscores the ongoing efforts to keep Montclair’s literary community thriving. Plus, don’t miss our recommendations for must-visit local spots, from the scenic Redwood Park to the delightful dishes at Daughter Thai Kitchen in Montclair Village.A Great Good Place for BooksGo Fund Me for Kathleen CaldwellWe Are Okay, Nina LaCourJoseph Di PriscoI Would Meet You Anywhere: A Memoir, Susan Kiyo ItoMelanie GideonKatherine RothschildWe All Want Impossible Things, Catherine NewmanCatherine NewmanThe Coast Road, Alan MurrinThe Rachel Incident, Caroline O’DonaghueWe Are the Brennans, Tracey LangeThe Live Impossible, Matt HaigSupport the showThe Bookshop PodcastMandy Jackson-BeverlySocial Media Links

Send us a textWhat happens when a lifelong love of literature leads to a storied 44-year career in the publishing industry? Join me for an intimate conversation with Andy Hughes, the recently retired Senior VP and Director of Production and Design at Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group. From his earliest role at Cornell University Medical Library to responding to a "must love books" job ad in the New York Times,  Andy offers an enthralling look at the pre-digital era of book manufacturing and his pivotal move to Knopf. This episode is packed with captivating stories and insights into the evolution of book production and the publishing industry over the decades.Andy discusses the complexities of merging corporate cultures and computer systems and gives a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges of implementing new systems across Knop's imprints. We discuss the resilience shown during the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw a surprising surge in book sales, adding to the compelling narrative of an industry in flux.Our discussion also celebrates the nuances of book production, from the meticulous editorial process to the significance of cover design. Andy shares memorable projects, including collaborations on graphic novels for Pantheon and the prestigious Everyman’s Library series. Reflecting on his career and deep connection to literature, Andy leaves us with a renewed appreciation for the intricate art of creating high-quality books and the enduring love of literature that binds us all. Whether you're a bibliophile or simply curious about the book publishing world, this episode offers a heartfelt tribute to the people and processes that bring stories to life.Support the showThe Bookshop PodcastMandy Jackson-BeverlySocial Media Links

Send us a textDiscover the transformative power of book ownership with Kate Bowersox, the passionate Executive Director of Books in Homes USA. In this heartfelt episode, Kate opens up about her personal journey, academic achievements, and her mission to ignite a love for reading among children. She shares touching stories of raising her own kids to cherish books, aligning perfectly with the organization's goal of ensuring every child has the joy of owning books. From her strategic initiatives to her unwavering dedication, Kate reveals how Books in Homes USA is making a significant impact on children's literacy nationwide.Concerned about the alarmingly low literacy rates across the United States? Learn how Books in Homes USA is addressing this critical issue by providing free books to students in low-income districts. Discover their innovative programs—Books for Ownership, Book Bridge, and Culture of Literacy—that empower children to choose their own books and develop a lifelong love for reading. We also discuss how strategic partnerships, donations, and community support fuel these efforts. Tune in to find out how you can contribute to this noble cause and support The Bookshop Podcast in celebrating the literary community.Books in Homes USAThe Women, Kristen HannahHappy Medium, Sarah AdlerSupport the showThe Bookshop PodcastMandy Jackson-BeverlySocial Media Links

Send us a textIn this episode, I chat with Chris Steib, owner of Transom Bookshop in Tarrytown, New York. Chris takes us on his career journey from a literature student to a high school English teacher, transitioning into the corporate world as a speechwriter and tech entrepreneur, and finally realizing his dream of opening an indie bookshop. Chris shares how he leveraged technology to create unique experiences for book lovers, including a literary magazine and an iPhone app for writers, and the challenges and rewards of integrating modern digital tools into a traditional bookstore setting.Small, niche bookstores come with their own set of hurdles and triumphs, and Chris is here to shed light on them. Learn the art of hand-picking inventory, fostering relationships with local authors, and the innovative concept of "reverse bookselling." Discover how Chris navigates space and event planning constraints through creative solutions like the guest bookseller initiative. Chris and I delve into the economic aspects of book pricing and understand why buying a full-price book from an indie shop is more than just a purchase—it’s a community investment. Chris’s story is also a tale of community values and historical charm. With a focus on curiosity, gratitude, creativity, and kindness, Chris has turned Transom Bookshop into a local treasure. Listen as he highlights the rich history and vibrant community of Tarrytown, New York, from its walkable Main Street to the scenic Aqueduct Hiking Trail. Whether you're a local or planning a visit, this episode offers a heartfelt invitation to experience the unique allure of Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow.Transom Bookshop Users, Colin Winnette Mom Rage: The Everyday Crisis of Modern Motherhood, Minna Dubin Of Boys and Men: Why the Modern Male Is Struggling, Why It Matters, and What to Do About It, Richard V. Reeves Patriarchy Blues: Reflections on Manhood, Frederick Joseph I Don’t Want to Talk about It: Overcoming the Secret Legacy of Male Depression, Terrence Real Quickly, While They Still Have Horses: Stories, Jan Carson Total Garbage: How We Can Fix Our Waste and Heal Our World, Edward Humes Blue Skies, T.C.BoyleSupport the showThe Bookshop PodcastMandy Jackson-BeverlySocial Media Links

Join Sheridan Swinson, the imaginative owner of Aardvark Books and Cafe in Herefordshire, as he shares his whimsical journey from a book wholesaler to running a beloved literary hub. He discusses the joy of letting readers discover books on their own and the impact of carrying multilingual titles for cultural preservation. Sheridan recounts charming tales from food festivals and his encounters with culinary legends. Enjoy humorous insights on the nuances of the publishing world, community connections, and the rich tapestry of literature.

Send us a textHave you ever wondered how a blogger's musings can morph into the pages of a novel? Join us on The Bookshop Podcast as we sit down with Jessie Rosen, who's done just that. From the East Coast to Los Angeles, Jessie shares her journey through blogging, scriptwriting, and now, novel writing. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the magic that happens when creativity meets a supportive community. Whether you're an aspiring writer or an enthusiastic reader, you'll find Jessie's candid reflections on the hurdles and triumphs of the craft genuinely inspirational.Jessie's latest novel, The Heirloom, reveals how her Italian and Portuguese heritage breathes life into her storytelling. Explore the enigmatic allure of Florence and the poignant ways in which our past can weave itself into our life choices.The Bookshop Podcast Jessie RosenThe Heirloom, Jessie Rosen The Sicilian Inheritance, Jo PiazzaExpiration Dates, Rebecca SerleBurnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle, Amelia Nagoski and Emily NagoskiDonate to The Bookshop PodcastSupport the showThe Bookshop PodcastMandy Jackson-BeverlySocial Media Links

Send us a textDiscover the heart and soul of Script Haven Ltd. as the remarkable Leena Batchelor, former Worcestershire Poet Laureate, takes us on a journey through the evolution of her dream. From her early days seeking solace in poetry to nurturing a community bookshop that blooms as a sanctuary for self-published, indie authors, and main stream publishers, Leena's story is one of unwavering resilience and dedication. She opens up about the challenges faced by creative communities, the critical role of the arts in emotional well-being, and how she turned adversity into the thriving pulse of literary and artistic expression that Script Haven Ltd. represents in Worcester, England.Leena recites her poignant poem Shades of Existence, which speaks to the universal struggle against emotional harm. She highlights her commitment to mental health awareness and the far-reaching impact of her voice, touching lives during the solitude of the UK's COVID-19 lockdowns. From leaving poems in public spaces to rallying the support of the Hollywood Vampires for her empowering youth play, Out of the Darkness, Leena Batchelor embodies the very essence of poetry's ability to foster connection, inspire change, and leave an indelible mark on society. Script Haven Ltd.Black Pear PressSpace and Shadows, Leena Batchelor Pearl Blades and Painted Silks: The Language of Fans, Leena Batchelor The Tumbling Girl, Bridget WalshThe Innocents, Bridget Walsh Support the showThe Bookshop PodcastMandy Jackson-BeverlySocial Media Links

Send us a textIn this episode, I chat with Emiko Jean, the New York Times bestselling author whose journey from various professions to the realm of writing is nothing short of inspiring. Emiko sheds light on her latest page-turner, The Return of Ellie Black, and the meticulous care she gives to her Japanese American characters. The world of publishing is fraught with uncertainties, but Emiko's candidness about her path, which took her from feeling disconnected to books she saw in libraries and bookshops due to her heritage, to celebrating representation in her work. The thread of survival and resilience weaves through our discussion, as Emiko draws upon true crime inspirations to craft narratives that echo the human spirit's enduring nature. She opens up about her five-year commitment to storytelling, infusing her characters with psychological depth, and confronting the repercussions of trauma. The novel's gripping conclusion—a twist devised to keep readers guessing—is a testament to her ability to create suspense that lingers beyond the final page. Finally, Emiko reflects on the arduous road to publication—the rejections, the revision under the guidance of an editorial agent, and the triumph of securing a two-book deal. Her approach to reading, favoring nonfiction during the writing process, and the unexpected delight in branching into new literary territories, underscores the ever-evolving nature of a writer's craft. Join us for this enriching episode, and remember to support your local indie bookshops by sharing your favorite finds for our future features.Support the showThe Bookshop PodcastMandy Jackson-BeverlySocial Media Links

Send us a textNestled within the heart of Claremont's historic district, Sunshine Book Company gleams with the charm of its 1915 architecture—a setting almost as enchanting as the tales it houses. As the shop celebrates its third anniversary, I'm joined by the effervescent Beth, who shares the serendipitous journey that brought her from the world of Disney to the intimate aisles of this beloved local haven. Our dialogue strolls through the picturesque streets of this vibrant town, pausing to savor tales of its historic downtown and the cultural tapestry that now flutters brightly in the Floridian breeze. We then pivot to a candid discussion about the enriching diversity of literature that graces Sunshine Book Company's shelves, mirroring the town's evolving demographic. Literature lovers, local business supporters, and everyone in between will find something to cherish in this episode—a heartfelt homage to the power of stories and the sanctuaries that preserve them. Join me and Beth as we celebrate community, history, and the sheer delight of losing oneself in a good book. Sunshine Book Co.The Women, Kristen HannahA Wild and Heavenly Place, Robin OliveiraYellowface, R. F. Kuang  Support the showThe Bookshop PodcastMandy Jackson-BeverlySocial Media Links