Zero to Well-Read

Jeff and Rebecca revisit Charles Dickens's A Christmas Carol, a story so familiar it’s often mistaken for simple. They consider its moral stakes, its enduring influence on readers and society, and why Scrooge's redemption still resonates. Subscribe to our free newsletter, and become a member for access to early, ad-free listening and bonus content. Follow Zero to Well-Read on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Email us: zerotowellread@bookriot.com Zero to Well-Read is a proud member of the Airwave Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeff and Rebecca get into Maggie O'Farrell's best-selling, critically-acclaimed, and now feature film, Hamnet. How does a book loosely based on the life of William Shakespeare not even use the name once? It's a deft, moving, and complicated novel--and makes for terrific discussion. Subscribe to The Book Riot Newsletter for regular updates to help you get the most out of your reading life. Email us: zerotowellread@bookriot.com Zero to Well-Read is a proud member of the Airwave Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeff and Rebecca discuss the award-winning books, pop culture phenomena, book club picks, and crossover hits of 2025 and attempt to identify the ones that might someday join the canon. Subscribe to The Book Riot Newsletter for regular updates to help you get the most out of your reading life. Email us: zerotowellread@bookriot.com Zero to Well-Read is a proud member of the Airwave Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hello Zero to Well-Read listeners! We've got a recommendation for you today: Origin Stories is a fantastic new podcast for anyone curious about the workings of the creative mind. It's hosted by veteran journalist Matthew Shaer, and explores the behind-the-scenes of your favorite book, magazine article, TV show, podcast, or movie — from the initial spark of curiosity to the long sessions in front of a white board. We thought you'd enjoy this episode where Matthew Shaer interviews Stephanie Foo, a veteran radio producer and longtime staffer at shows like Snap Judgment and This American Life. She talks about the creation of her NYT best-selling memoir, WHAT MY BONES KNOW, which explores her early childhood trauma and her more recent diagnosis of complex PTSD. Take a listen by searching for Origin Stories wherever you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dive into the magical chaos of Salman Rushdie's work as the hosts untangle the brilliance of "Midnight's Children." They explore Rushdie's significance today and his bold stance on free expression. With insights into his unique narrative style, they discuss the intricate relationship between history and storytelling. Personal anecdotes highlight how revisiting challenging reads can deepen understanding. Plus, they delve into Rushdie's playful prose and cultural metaphors, revealing why this literary titan remains electrifying and relevant.

Jeff and Rebecca explore Octavia Butler's eerily prescient 1993 novel, The Parable of the Sower, and discuss Butler's legacy and enduring impact on science fiction. Subscribe to The Book Riot Newsletter for regular updates to help you get the most out of your reading life. This season of Zero to Well-Read is sponsored by Thriftbooks. Email us: zerotowellread@bookriot.com Zero to Well-Read is a proud member of the Airwave Podcast Network. This content contains affiliate links. When you buy through these links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeff and Rebecca revisit Donna Tartt's cult classic, the OG of dark academia, The Secret History. Subscribe to The Book Riot Newsletter for regular updates to help you get the most out of your reading life. This season of Zero to Well-Read is sponsored by Thriftbooks. Email us: zerotowellread@bookriot.com This content contains affiliate links. When you buy through these links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dive into the timeless tragedy of Oedipus the King, where ancient questions about fate and free will come alive. Discover how the pursuit of truth leads to Oedipus’s dramatic downfall. The discussion covers the essence of Greek catharsis and theatrical conventions like masks and staging. Explore the tension between divine will and human inquiry, and reflect on the play's impact on contemporary audiences. Plus, a look at its enduring themes of hubris and civic duty—perfect for fans of rich storytelling!

Delve into the enduring impact of a beloved American novel, exploring its cultural significance and why revisiting it matters today. Discover how childhood memories contrast with adult rereadings, and debate the complexities surrounding Atticus Finch's character. Uncover the gothic elements and essential themes of empathy and morality, while reflecting on the book's controversial aspects and historical context. From literary craft to adaptations, this discussion reveals what makes the narrative resonate across generations.

The hosts dive into the complexities of Shakespeare's Hamlet, discussing its overwhelming language and the benefits of audio performances. They explore the ghost's dramatic impact and Hamlet's deep character struggles with moral ambiguity. The conversation touches on Shakespeare's life, the play's existential themes, and its relevance through time. Listeners are encouraged to approach the text with an open mind, embracing its rich layers rather than seeking concrete answers. Plus, they share fascinating trivia that connects Hamlet to modern culture.