The Bookshop Podcast

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

Send us a textEmbark on a historical odyssey as Caroline Alexander, New York Times Bestselling Author and acclaimed contributor to The New Yorker and National Geographic, unveils the lesser-known sagas of World War II's China-Burma-India theatre in her new book, Skies of Thunder: The Deadly World War II Mission Over The Roof Of The World. With a background steeped in philosophy, theology, and classics, Caroline offers a rich tapestry of stories that captures the heroism and daunting challenges faced by those who shaped pivotal moments in history. Her transition from a voracious reader to a celebrated author is a testament to the power of classical languages in enhancing narrative precision, a theme that resonates deeply throughout our conversation.The episode traverses the rugged landscapes of the 1940s, retracing the steps of untrained civilians who sculpted the vital Burma Road with nothing but rudimentary tools. Caroline's meticulous research paints a vivid picture of their struggle and the strategic importance of the road, inviting us to view their accomplishments as more than a military feat but an enduring emblem of the human spirit. The gripping accounts of the pilots who risked their lives over the treacherous "Hump" region come to life, showcasing their bravery in the face of primitive navigation equipment, daunting weather, enemy fire, and the Himalayas.Amid the roar of engines and the call of duty, we hear the personal story of fighter pilot Robert T. Boody and gain an intimate look at the air transport command's overlooked dangers. Caroline's narrative explores the intricate web of allied relations, highlighting the strategic and geopolitical intricacies that shaped World War II's theatre in Asia. This episode celebrates the launch of Skies of Thunder and honors the legacy of those who navigated the deadliest skies with unwavering resolve. Join us to uncover the trials and triumphs that defined an era where courage soared above the clouds.Caroline Alexander Skies of Thunder: The Deadly World War II Mission Over the Roof of the World, Caroline Alexander American Airpower Comes of Age—General Henry H. Hap Arnold’s World War II Diaries, Air University Press, M.G. John W. HustonBlack Ships and Sea Raiders: The Late Bronze and Early Iron Age Context of Odysseus’ Second Cretan Lie, Jeffrey P. EmanuelBooks by Henry Williamson Support the showThe Bookshop PodcastMandy Jackson-BeverlySocial Media Links

Send us a textIn this episode, I chat with  Shelf Life Books owners Chris and Berkley McDaniel about the switch from corporate life to purchasing an indie bookshop, things to do and see in Richmond, Virginia, cats, and books!Formerly known as Chop Suey Books, Shelf Life Books is the largest independent bookstore in Richmond, VA, and has served the Richmond community for over two decades. Located in the heart of Richmond’s Carytown district and owned by Chris and Berkley McDaniel, the store is staffed by long-time patrons and is a hub for local authors and book lovers alike. They offer new books on their lower level and five rooms of used books upstairs, along with their two cats, Page and Mylar. Shelf Life BooksThe Bitter Southerner Read Banned Books T-shirtsThe House is on Fire, Rachel BeanlandBooks by Seishi YokomizoFathomfolk, Eliza ChenNavola, Paolo BacigalupiAll The Colors of the Dark, Chris WhitakerMemory for Forgetfulness: August, Beirut, 1982, Mahmoud DarwishMartyr! Kaveh AkbarSupport the showThe Bookshop PodcastMandy Jackson-BeverlySocial Media Links

Send us a textIn this episode, I chat with Edward Humes about his latest book, Total Garbage: How We Can Fix Our Waste and Heal Our World.  Humes reveals the surprising depths of waste permeation in everyday life and the power we hold to rectify these issues. By reimagining waste as an opportunity rather than an obstacle, Humes provides a blueprint for collective action toward a cleaner, more responsible future.EDWARD HUMES is a Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist and author whose sixteen previous books include Garbology: Our Dirty Love Affair With Trash, The Forever Witness, Mississippi Mud, and the PEN Award– winning No Matter How Loud I Shout. Ed and his family, including their rescued racing greyhounds and collie, live in Southern California.Edward HumesTotal Garbage, Edward HumesThe Covenant of Water, Abraham VergheseThe Teachers, Alexandra Robbins A Mountain of Used Clothes Appeared in Chile’s Desert. Then it Went Up in Flames. Julia Shipley, Muriel AlarconBite Toothpaste BitsLiterless.comJimmy Rees, The Man Who Decides PackagingEco  Roots (Shampoo Bars)Who Gives A Crap TPSupport the showThe Bookshop PodcastMandy Jackson-BeverlySocial Media Links