Afleveringen
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Summer reading is getting steamy! Today, Joe is joined by bestselling romance authors Ann Liang and BK Borison for a conversation about creating unforgettable love stories, building electric chemistry, writing yearning and intimacy, and why romance continues to captivate readers around the world.
The conversation also briefly features romance author Sara Cate, who joined at the start of the episode before technical difficulties cut her time short.
From the balance of tension and tenderness to the art of crafting a perfect happily ever after, Ann and BK share a behind-the-scenes look at their writing process, the emotional core of romance novels, and what makes a love story linger long after the final page. Whether you’re searching for your next spicy summer romance, a fan of contemporary love stories, or curious about how romance authors bring fictional relationships to life, this episode is a must-listen.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Link to our full book list: Find all the books mentioned in Season 3 on Libby Life! Here’s a recap of our Monthly Book Picks (Jan-May 2026) and June – October 2026!
Who’s in the episode:
Ann Liang: https://www.annliang.com/
BK Borison: https://bkborison.com/
Sara Cate: https://saracatebooks.com/
Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:03:21 Diving into romance 00:50:58 Romance Lightning Round 00:54:52 Thanks and outro
Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season
Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!
We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!
Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
June is Audiobook Month, and we're celebrating one of our favorite ways to experience stories.
This week Joe is joined by Amy Allen Clark, host of the BOOK GANG podcast, to talk about the audiobooks they've been loving lately. From unforgettable narrations to stories that are impossible to pause, they're sharing recent audiobook recommendations that deserve a spot on your listening list.
This conversation is packed with recommendations, listening inspiration, and plenty of appreciation for the magic of audiobooks.
Tune in to discover new audiobook recommendations, celebrate Audiobook Month, and find your next favorite listen.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Link to our full book list: Find all the books mentioned in Season 3 on Libby Life! Here’s a recap of our Monthly Book Picks (Jan-May 2026) and June – October 2026!
Titles for Episode:
Amy’s Picks:
Enormous Wings - Laurie Frankel
Good People - Patmeena Sabit
Lady Tremaine - Rachel Hochhauser
My Lady Jane - Cynthia Hand
Skin Contact - Elisa Faison
Invasive Species - Ellery Adams
Joe’s Picks:
Swift and Saddled – Lyla Sage
The Daisy Chain Flower Shop – Laurie Gilmore
Headlights – CJ Leede
Witches of Dubious Origin - Jenn McKinlay
God of the Woods - Liz Moore
Our Last Resort - Clémence Michallon
A Fortune of Sand – Ruta Sepetys
The Taking of Jake Livingston – Ryan Douglass
Bath Haus – PJ Vernon
The Perfect Home – Daniel Kenitz
Don’t Let the Forest In – CG Drews
The Good Vampire’s Guide to Blood & Boyfriends – Jamie D’Amato
Legends & Lattes Series - Travis Baldree
Operation Bounce House – Matt Dinniman
The Diviners – Libba Bray
Believing – Anita Hill
The Autumn Sprints Retirement Home Massacre - Philip Fracassi
Home is Where the Bodies Are – Jeneva Rose
MindWorks – Neal Shusterman
Out There – Kate Folk
Bubblegum – Adam Levin
The Dresden Files – Jim Butcher
A Series of Unforunate Events – Lemony Snicket
Vagabond – Tim Curry
NOS4ATU – Joe Hill
Rosemary’s Baby – Ira Levin
Charlotte’s Web – EB White
The Curseworkers Series - Holly Black
How to Train Your Dragon series – Cressida Cowell
Leaving Isn’t the Hardest Thing – Lauren Hough
Who’s in this episode:
Amy Allen Clark – Links
Discover your next favorite read with the NEW 2026 MomAdvice Summer Reading Guide! Dive into 70 handpicked titles—featuring upcoming releases, fresh new reads, and beloved backlist gems. Flip through 57 pages packed with bookish inspiration to create your ultimate summer reading stack. LINK: https://buymeacoffee.com/bookgangpodcast/e/535779
Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:00:43 Welcome and catching up with Amy Allen Clark 00:06:06 A reminder of our seasonal schedule 00:07:11 We talk about our love of audiobooks 00:19:06 Our audiobook recommendations 01:12:50 Outro
Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season, or this list for today’s episode!
Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!
We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!
Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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June is Audiobook Month, and we're celebrating with two of the most beloved voices in the industry.
This week on Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by acclaimed audiobook narrators Saskia Maarleveld and Michael Crouch for a behind-the-scenes conversation about the art of bringing stories to life through audio.
From developing character voices to recording emotional scenes, Saskia and Michael share what really goes into creating an unforgettable listening experience. Together, they explore the unique magic of audiobooks, the relationship between narrator and listener, and why hearing a story can feel so different from reading one on the page.
Saskia Maarleveld has narrated more than 700 audiobooks and is known for her remarkable ability to perform a wide range of accents and characters across genres including historical fiction, fantasy, mystery, and young adult literature. Listeners may recognize her work on bestselling titles like The Alice Network, The Rose Code, and The God of the Woods.
Michael Crouch has recorded more than 500 audiobooks and is an AudioFile Golden Voice narrator whose work has earned Audie Awards, Earphones Awards, and widespread acclaim from listeners and critics alike. He's particularly celebrated for his performances in young adult fiction, LGBTQ+ stories, and contemporary literary fiction.
Whether you're a lifelong audiobook fan, a devoted Book Lounge listener, or someone who's been curious about trying audiobooks for the first time, this conversation offers a fascinating look inside one of publishing's most beloved formats.
Celebrate Audiobook Month with us and discover why a great narrator can transform a great book into an unforgettable experience.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Link to our full book list: Find all the books mentioned in Season 3 on Libby Life! Here’s a recap of our Monthly Book Picks (Jan-May 2026) and June – October 2026!
Who’s in this episode:
Michael Crouch - Website
Saskia Maarleveld– Instagram Check out Saskia’s Medium article – The Voice in Your Ears
Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:00:39 Welcome to Saskia Maarleveld and Michael Crouch 00:03:05 What does it feel like to work on IP books vs. Original Content? 00:06:30 What does creative freedom look like to you in narration? 00:15:05 What brought you into audiobook work? 00:25:03 What genre feels like home? 00:30:08 How are people getting into narration today? 00:40:41 Is there a standard for what you’re paid for your work? 00:50:03 Working on pronunciations 00:53:32 Lightning Round 00:59:55 Thanks and Outro
Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season!
Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!
We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!
Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
What should you read this Pride Month?
In this Pride Month episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by Jananie K. Velu to share book recommendations that celebrate queer stories, queer joy, and the many ways LGBTQIA+ people find connection, community, and hope.
As they discuss the books they're recommending this June, the conversation expands beyond reading lists to explore what it means to live Pride every day of the year. Together, Joe and Jananie reflect on the importance of making space for joy, remembrance, rest, and reflection, and how books can help us better understand ourselves and each other.
Whether you're looking to discover new LGBTQIA+ authors, add more queer stories to your TBR, or simply find your next great read, this episode offers thoughtful recommendations and meaningful conversation about the power of reading during Pride Month and beyond.
From stories that celebrate queer futures to books that honor the past, this is a conversation about reading, identity, community, and the many ways Pride can live on long after June ends.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Link to our full book list: Find all the books mentioned in Season 3 on Libby Life! Here’s a recap of our Monthly Book Picks (Jan-May 2026) and June – October 2026!
Book recommendations:
Jananie’s Picks:
Comedic Timing – Upasna Barath
Tall Water – SJ Sindu
Meeting Millie – Clare Ashton
Honey Girl – Morgan Roges
Perfume and Pain – Anna Dorn
Fundamentally – Nussaibah Younis
Big Swiss – Jen Beagin
Local Heavens – K. M. Fajardo
Devil of the Deep – Falencia Jean Francois
House of Hunger - Alexis Henderson
Joe’s Picks:
Stag Dance & Detransition Baby – Torrey Peters
Tell Me I’m Worthless – Alison Rumfitt
Northranger – Rey Terciero
Jackson Alone – Jose Ando
Field Guide for the Formerly Villainous – Autumn K. England
We Burned So Bright – TJ Klune
Patricia Wants to Cuddle – Samantha Allen
You Weren’t Meant to Be Human – Andrew Joseph White
Who’s in this episode:
Jananie K. Velu – Links
Glad Day Lit, Toronto - website
Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:00:54 Welcome to Jananie K. Velu 00:01:26 What are your pride practices? 00:07:50 Our Pride Reading Recommendations 01:00:10 Thanks to Jananie and Outro!
Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season, or this list for today’s episode!
Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!
We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!
Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Pride Month is a celebration, but it's also a reminder of the journeys so many LGBTQ+ people take to find acceptance, belonging, and hope.
In this special Pride Month episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by authors Kody Keplinger, Ryan Collett, and TJ Alexander for honest, heartfelt conversations about identity, community and the power of seeing yourself reflected in stories.
In the first half of the episode, Kody Keplinger and Ryan Collett discuss the isolation and shame that many queer people experience, the importance of finding your people and how books can help readers feel less alone. Together, they explore the transformative power of connection, representation, and hope.
In the second half, TJ Alexander joins Joe for a conversation about queer joy, love stories, and the importance of imagining futures where LGBTQIA+ people aren't simply surviving, they're thriving. From romance and community to the possibilities of a more inclusive world, this discussion celebrates the beauty and power of queer storytelling.
This episode is a reminder that none of us are meant to navigate life alone.
Book Lounge by Libby is a podcast for readers, book lovers, and anyone searching for their next great read.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Link to our full book list: Find all the books mentioned in Season 3 on Libby Life! Here’s a recap of our Monthly Book Picks (Jan-May 2026) and June – October 2026!
Who’s in this episode:
Segment 1:
Kody Keplinger – Website, WHERE LOST GIRLS GO
Ryan Collett – Website, GEORGE FALLS THROUGH TIME
Segment 2:
TJ Alexander – Website, A LADY FOR ALL SEASONS
Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:00:41 Segment 1 with Kody Keplinger and Ryan Collett 00:45:06 Segment 2 with TJ Alexander 01:28:04 Outro
Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season!
Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!
We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!
Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
June is STACKED with incredible new releases, and this month’s Book Picks episode is here to help you build your summer TBR. Joe is joined by Kieran, founder of the Queer Liberation Library, to talk about the most exciting June 2026 book releases across genres — from buzzy literary fiction and swoony romances to twisty thrillers, queer stories, fantasy adventures, and everything in between.
Along the way, Kieran also shares more about the mission behind the Queer Liberation Library, a digital library working to increase access to LGBTQIA+ books for readers across the United States. If you’re looking for more queer stories to add to your reading life, it’s an incredible resource worth exploring.
Whether you’re planning beach reads, book club picks, or simply trying to stay ahead of the biggest releases of the month, this episode is packed with recommendations to keep your TBR thriving all summer long.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Who’s in this episode:
Check out the Queer Liberation Library (website)! You can show your support with a donation here (donation link) or just by supporting them on social media (Instagram).
Link to our full book list: Find all the books mentioned in Season 3 on Libby Life! Here’s a recap of our Monthly Book Picks (Jan-May 2026)!
Book recommendations:
Kieran’s Picks:
Honorable Mention: The Fake Divination Offense – Sara Raasch
Puck – Samantha Allen
25 Days in Athens – Jack Strange
Supergay! - Frankie Grande
Double Dutch Fuss – Phill Branch
Red X – David Demchuk
Tillinghast – Clare Cavenagh
Grief Eater – Emma Osborne
Joe’s Picks:
Slasher Summer – E.L. Chen
Mister Magic: The Graphic Novel – Kiersten White, Illustrated by Veronica & Andy Fish
The Disaster Gay Detective Agency – Lev AC Rosen
The Disco at the End of the World – Nathan Tavares
We Hexed the Moon – Mollyhall Seeley
Girl’s Girl – Sonia Feldman
Valley of the Moms – Hannah Selinger
Marion – Leah Rowan
I am not a Vampire (Anymore) - Darcy Miller
Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:01:03 Welcome Kieran and the Queer Liberation Library 00:01:27 What is the Queer Liberation Library (QLL)? 00:03:24 Supporting QLL and the Pride month donation drive 00:04:44 June 2026 Book Picks 00:58:48 Thanks to Kieran and Outro
Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season, or this list for today’s episode!
Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!
We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!
Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
If your TBR is looking a little too well-behaved, consider this your official invitation to cause some chaos.
Joe is joined by Abby from @crimebythebook to dive headfirst into a stack of mystery and thriller recommendations that are twisty, chilling, and completely unputdownable. From locked-room tension and atmospheric horror-leaning suspense to darkly clever whodunits and cult-favorite thrillers, this episode is packed with reads guaranteed to keep you guessing long after “just one more chapter.”
If you’re searching for the best mystery books, psychological thrillers, dark academia vibes, or hidden gem crime fiction to add to your reading list, this episode is your next obsession.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Link to our full book list: Find all the books mentioned in Season 3 on Libby Life! Here’s a recap of our Monthly Book Picks (Jan-May 2026)!
Book recommendations:
Abby’s Picks:
Nightwatching – Tracy Sierra
You Are Fatally Invited & The Library After Dark – Ande Pliego
The Treasure Hunters Club – Tom Ryan
The Anniversary – Alex Finlay
Hide & Seek - Søren Sveistrup
The Possession of Alba Díaz - Isabel Cañas
Joe’s Picks:
The Mill House Murders – Yukito Ayatsuji
Dead & Breakfast & Summer Coven - Kat Hillis & Rosiee Thor (Aug. 25)
Murder in the Dressing Room & Missing in Soho – Holly Stars (Jun. 2)
With My Little Eye – Joshilyn Jackson
The Sister Holiday Series (Book 1: Scorched Grace, Book 3: Divine Ruin) - Margot Douaihy
Who’s in this episode:
Abby (Crime by the Book) - Links
Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:00:44 Welcome to Abby from CrimebytheBook! 00:01:06 Getting to know Abby and Crime by the Book 00:11:11 Our Mystery & Mayhem Recommendations 00:51:54 Thanks to Abby and Outro!
Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season, or this list for today’s episode!
Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!
We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!
Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
What makes readers gasp out loud at the end of a thriller? How do authors plant clues without giving everything away? And why do some plot twists stay with us forever?
This week on Book Lounge, Joe is joined by three powerhouse thriller writers — Clare Mackintosh, Jo Piazza, and Lisa Gardner — for an exciting conversation all about The Anatomy of a Twist. Together, they unpack the art of suspense, the challenge of surprising modern readers, and the careful balance between foreshadowing and deception.
From unreliable narrators and shocking endings to pacing, character secrets, and the emotional impact of a perfectly executed reveal, this episode is a must-listen for thriller readers, mystery lovers, and aspiring writers alike. The group also discusses some of their favorite twists in fiction, the pressure of “outsmarting” readers in the age of online theories, and what they believe makes psychological thrillers so addictive.
If you love mystery books, crime fiction, suspense novels, plot twists, and behind-the-scenes conversations with bestselling authors, this episode delivers plenty of intrigue, insight, and mayhem.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Link to our full book list: Find all the books mentioned in Season 3 on Libby Life! Here’s a recap of our Monthly Book Picks (Jan-May 2026)!
Who’s in this episode:
Clare Mackintosh - website Jo Piazza - website Lisa Gardner - website
Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:01:11 Get to know today’s guests 00:02:51 Writing by the seat of your pants 00:03:31 Figuring as you go vs. Planning 00:06:53 The Architect vs. The Builder 00:08:48 Working backwards 00:15:48 Do you want the reader to have the chance to figure out the mystery? 00:22:17 Twists at the top of the book 00:39:14 Do they track body bags? 00:42:33 Do readers want to be surprised? 00:50:10 How do you balance plot + pacing with your twist? 00:57:35 Outro
Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season!
Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!
We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!
Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
This week on Book Lounge, Joe is joined by Meara for a celebration of all things adventure as they talk about adult books that perfectly capture the feeling of reading The Magic Tree House. Whether it’s characters being pulled into another time and place, epic quests across strange worlds, hidden mysteries, or stories filled with wonder and discovery, these are the books that recreate that unforgettable reading experience for grown-up readers.
From fantasy adventures and historical twists to books that feel immersive, magical, and impossible to put down, Joe and Meara share the titles giving them major Magic Tree House energy and explain why these stories still tap into the same excitement that made so many readers fall in love with books in the first place. If you’ve ever wanted stories that make you feel like you’ve stepped through a portal into another world, this episode is for you.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Link to our full book list: Find all the books mentioned in Season 3 on Libby Life! Here’s a recap of our Monthly Book Picks (Jan-May 2026)!
Book recommendations:
Meara’s Picks:
These Immortal Truths – R. Raeta
How the Word Is Passed: A Reckoning with the History of Slavery Across America – Clint Smith
The Keeper of Night - Kylie Lee Baker
The Scarlet Throne - Amy Leow
The Dead Cat Tail Assassins - P. Djèlí Clark
In Universes - Emet North
The Time Traveler’s Passport Collection
Joe’s Picks:
Vampires in the Lemon Grove – Karen Russell
Found Audio – NJ Campbell
Peaces – Helen Oyeyemi
Under the Whispering Door – TJ Klune
The Elsewhere Express – Samantha Sotto Yambao
Sheets – Brenna Thummler
Who’s in this episode:
Meara - Links
Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:00:50 Welcome Meara! 00:01:06 What was your relationship to the Magic Tree House? 00:02:11 Reading Magic Tree House as an adult 00:11:57 Instilling recognition of cultures 00:19:40 Do you see similarities between your regular reads and the MTH books you enjoyed? 00:24:09 Our reading recommendations! 00:53:58 Outro
Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season, or this list for today’s episode!
Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!
We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!
Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
This week, Joe sits down with legendary children’s author Mary Pope Osborne to celebrate the legacy of the Magic Tree House books and the generations of readers who grew up with Jack and Annie’s adventures.
Together, they discuss the original spark that inspired the series, how the personalities of Jack and Annie developed over time and the early days of writing for young readers during the rise of early chapter books. Mary also shares behind-the-scenes stories about adapting the series into graphic novels, audiobooks, musicals, and animation, along with the process of designing some of the most recognizable covers in children’s literature.
The conversation also explores Mary’s writing routine, the books that challenged her most creatively, the incredible memories she’s collected from readers over the years and what it means to see The Magic Tree House continue to connect with new generations of kids today.
Filled with nostalgia, creativity, laughter, and heartfelt reflection, this episode is a celebration of storytelling, imagination, and one of the most beloved children’s series of all time.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Link to our full book list: Find all the books mentioned in Season 3 on Libby Life! Here’s a recap of our Monthly Book Picks (Jan-May 2026)!
Who’s in this episode:
Mary Pope Osborne – YouTube, Website, Instagram
Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:01:15 What was the spark that lead to the Magic Tree House? 00:03:48 The idea of writing for younger readers and inspiration in the classroom 00:07:35 How did Jack & Annie’s personalities take shape? 00:09:00 How has change happened over the years? 00:13:21 The start of Early Chapter Books 00:22:09 Animating the Magic Tree House 00:25:47 Designing the cover 00:30:25 The Magic Tree House Graphic Novels 00:35:30 What is your process for writing? 00:41:06 Kids informed titles and covers live! 00:42:48 Magic Tree House: History Heroes 00:47:25 What book pushed you most while writing? 00:50:00 Recording the Magic Tree House audiobooks 00:51:26 Magic Tree House Musicals 00:52:58 What memories over the years have truly stuck with you? 00:57:54 Lightning Round! 00:59:59 What do you hope your readers take with them? 01:00:10 What does the series mean to you now? 01:00:31 Outro
Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season!
Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!
We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!
Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Continuing our celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month episode, Joe is joined by Jananie K. Velu to share some of their favorite books that center mental health, healing, growth, and emotional honesty.
Together, they talk about the stories that stay with us, the comfort books can provide during difficult seasons and the powerful role reading can play in helping people feel understood and less alone. The conversation also explores Jananie’s Anti-Brain Rot reading challenge, the idea of mindful reading, and the challenge of staying intentional with our habits, goals, and attention spans in a world full of distractions.
This episode is packed with recommendations, from emotional contemporary stories to hopeful, comforting reads, and the full episode description includes an even bigger list of titles that didn’t make it into the conversation.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Link to our full book list:
Find all the books mentioned in Season 3 on Libby Life!
Book recommendations:
(Includes picks not mentioned but picked for this episode)
Jananie’s Picks:
Cleo Dang Would Rather Be Dead - Mai Nguyen
An Academy for Liars - Alexis Henderson
Alone With You in the Ether - Olivie Blake
Haldol and Hyacinths - Melody Moezzi
An Unquiet Mind - Kay Redfield Jamison
How to Keep House While Drowning – KC Davis
Challenger Deep - Neal Shusterman
Darius the Great is Not Okay – Adib Khorram My Year of Rest and Relaxation – Ottessa Moshfegh
Turtles All the Way Down - John Green
What My Bones Know – Stephanie Foo
Evil Eye - Etaf Rum
The Secret World of Briar Rose - Cindy Pham
Between Friends and Lovers - Shirlene Obuobi
Before I Let Go - Kennedy Ryan
Cleopatra and Frankenstein - Coco Mellors
Big Swiss - Jen Beagin
Joe’s Picks:
Puzzled – Pan Cooke
What’s Wrong? - Erin Williams
Anxietyland – Gemma Correll
Past Tense – Sacha Mardou
Dear Scarlet – Teresa Wong
In. - Will McPhail
Everything is OK – Debbie Tung
Verona Comics – Jennifer Dugan
Sunflowers – Keezy Young
Who’s in this episode:
Jananie K. Velu - Links
Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:00:52 Catching up with Jananie & Mental Health Awareness Month 00:01:10 What role does reading play in your mental health journey? 00:02:15 Anti-Brain Rot Reading Challenge and Mindful Reading 00:04:48 When you’re going through it mentally, it’s hard to stick to goals and plans 00:07:36 Mental Health Awareness Month Reading Recs 01:07:27 Outro
Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season, or this list for today’s episode!
Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!
We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!
Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
This week, we’re reflecting on Mental Health Awareness Month. Today, Joe sits down with two mental health professionals to explore the powerful connection between reading, emotional well-being, and community. Split into two thoughtful segments, this episode invites listeners to reflect on how books, libraries, and small daily habits can support healing, growth, and a sense of stability in an often-overwhelming world. In the first segment, Joe is joined by Monica Hobson (aka: @thebookeduptherapist), a therapist and licensed clinical social worker whose work centers on the role of reading in our healing journeys. Together, they explore the idea that distraction isn’t avoidance; it's a meaningful part of processing and recovery. They discuss the importance of self-care, how books can act as connectors between people and experiences, and how to quiet the pressure of “what should I read” in favor of what truly serves you. In the second segment, Joe speaks with Dr. Suzan Song, MD, PhD, about the broader impact of reading on both individuals and communities. Their conversation touches on personal and collective agency, building stability in uncertain times, and what Dr. Song wishes more people understood about mental health. She also shares why one of her first priorities in any new place is getting a library card and what that represents beyond just access to books. This episode is an invitation to slow down, reflect, and consider the role stories play in our lives; not just as entertainment, but as tools for connection, understanding, and healing. We hope this conversation offers a sense of comfort and possibility. You are not alone. If you are seeking support, please find a list of resources below: Psychology Today Find a Therapist tool: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org Maternal Mental Health: call or text 1-833-852-6262 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administrations: call or text 1-800-985-5990 The Trevor Project for LGBTQ+ Youth: Call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678-678 Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel! Who’s in this episode: Segment 1: Monica Hobson – Instagram, Psychology Today Segment 2: Dr. Suzan Song – Website, Instagram, book: Why We Suffer and How We Heal Link to our full book list: Find all the books mentioned in Season 3 on Libby Life! Here’s a recap of our Monthly Book Picks (Jan-May 2026)! Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro – Welcome to Mental Health Awareness Month 00:00:43 Segment 1 with Monica Hobson, LCSW 00:06:37 Distraction is an important part of our healing process 00:08:22 Making time and giving power to self-care 00:19:55 Books are a connector 00:35:39 What are the immediate benefits to reading for mental health? 00:38:30 How can you make a more stress-free reading life? 00:43:53 How can we contribute to our JOY while reading? 00:48:12 Segment 2 with Dr. Suzan Song, MD, PhD 00:49:07 How does reading help heal communities? 00:52:58 Personal and collective agency 00:53:58 How can you build your own sense of agency? 00:57:48 Escapism versus alignment 00:59:05 What does Dr. Song wish more people understood about mental health? 01:05:46 Resilience is not just enduring 1:09:03 Book club is an experience of connection 01:11:16 We’re missing a lot of shared spaces 01:13:36 Getting a library card 01:14:15 Where do stories and reading fit within a healing journey? 01:15:26 Privatized suffering and healing 01:19:02 Thinking about death and dying 01:23:36 Through reading, we feel more safe and understood 01:27:17 How can someone start reflecting through the day (easily) 01:29:36 The emotional GPS 01:31:04 What’s a message you hope readers carry with them? 01:32:21 Outro Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season! Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram! Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by Jananie K. Velu of thisstoryaintover to celebrate AAPI Month with a stack of incredible Asian lit you’ll want to add to your TBR immediately.
Together, they dive into a wide range of must-read books highlighting stories that span genres, perspectives, and lived experiences. From deeply personal narratives to sweeping, unforgettable storytelling, this conversation is all about discovering books that stay with you and expanding your reading list to celebrate these voices all year long.
Whether you’re looking to build out your AAPI Month reading list, discover new favorite authors, or simply find your next great read, this episode is packed with recommendations that bring heart, perspective, and unforgettable storytelling.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Link to our full book list:
Find all the books mentioned in Season 3 on Libby Life!
Book recommendations:
Jananie’s Picks:
We Dance Upon Demons - Vaishnavi Patel
Burn the Sea - Mona Tewari
Capitalists Must Starve - Park Seolyeon
Natural Beauty & Immaculate Conception - Ling Ling Huang
Cleo Dang Would Rather Be Dead - Mai Nguyen
A Kiss of Crimson Ash - Anuja Varghese
Breasts and Eggs – Mieko Kawakami
Tall Water – SJ Sindu
Welcome to the Hyunam-dong Bookshop - Hwang Bo-reum
Joe’s Picks:
Counterattacks at Thirty & Almond – Won-Pyung Sohn
Séance Tea Party – Reimena Yee
What You Are Looking For is in the Library – Michiko Aoyama
The Midnight Taxi – Yosha Gunasekera
Convenience Store Woman & Earthlings - Sayaka Murata
Detective Aunty & Moonlight Murder - Uzma Jalaluddin
Shoutout: Strange Pictures, Strange Houses & Strange Buildings - Uketsu
Who’s in this episode:
Jananie K. Velu - Links
Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:01:06 Catching up with Jananie K. Velu! 00:02:20 What are Jananie’s guiding lights when choosing for her imprint 00:03:57 Starting the reading recs 01:03:46 Outro
Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season, or this list for today’s episode!
Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!
We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!
Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe celebrates Asian Heritage Month by spotlighting the global impact of Asian voices in storytelling. Joined by bestselling authors Lisa See and Zoulfa Katouh, the conversation explores how heritage, identity, and lived experience shape the stories we read and why those stories resonate far beyond any one place or perspective.
From the influence of cultural traditions to the responsibility of telling stories rooted in personal and collective history, Lisa and Zoulfa share how their backgrounds inform their writing and connect with readers around the world. This episode highlights the power of global storytelling, the importance of representation in literature, and the way deeply personal narratives can feel universal.
If you’re looking to celebrate Asian Heritage Month through books, discover globally resonant stories, or better understand how culture shapes the stories that stay with us, this conversation is a meaningful place to start.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Who’s in this episode:
Lisa See - Website Daughters of the Sun and Moon – coming June 9, 2026 Lady Tan’s Circle of Women
Zoulfa Katouh - Website The Ocean Would Paint Me Blue - coming June 2, 2026 As Long as the Lemon Tree Grows
Time stamps: 00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:00:57 Welcome to Lisa See and Zoulfa Katouh 00:02:22 A conversation on Asian heritage, culture and the impact on writing 00:23:41 Being Authentic and Intentional 00:29:02 Lisa See reflects on conversations about racism with her father 00:40:47 What does home mean to you in your work? 00:47:07 What do you hope readers take with you from your work? 00:51:51 Thank you and outro
Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season!
Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!
We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!
Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Be honest, how many books have you borrowed purely because the cover looked amazing?
This week on Book Lounge, Joe is joined by Bre for a very honest, slightly chaotic, and deeply relatable conversation about judging books by their covers. Before diving into our recommendations, we get into what Bre loves in a cover design.
We also talk about the covers that live rent-free in for Bre, and how special editions have completely changed the way readers collect (and display) books. Plus, a love-filled detour into The Diviners series and why its design continues to stand out.
Then, we get to recommending books we only read BECAUSE of the cover.
We didn’t read the synopsis.
We didn’t check reviews.
We saw the cover… and that was enough.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Book recommendations:
Bre’s Picks:
How to Solve Your Own Murder – Kristen Perrin
The Jumbies - Tracey Baptiste
To Steal a Throne - Gabi Burton
On Sundays She Picked Flowers - Yah Yah Scholfield
Joe’s Picks:
Sky Daddy – Kate Folk
Just Like Mother – Anne Heltzel
Dollface – Lindy Ryan
Butter – Asako Yuzuki
Who’s in this episode:
Bre - Links
Time stamps:
00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:00:40 Welcome to Bre The Loc’d Booktician 00:01:02 What are some of your favorite cover designs? 00:05:56 Do you have a book cover that comes to mind when you think of a good design? 00:06:57 Thoughts on special editions 00:19:11 Here’s our recommendations! 01:17:35 Outro
Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season, or this list for today’s episode!
Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!
We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!
Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Your TBR is about to get longer.
In this episode of Book Lounge, Joe is joined by Rachel to break down the most exciting book releases coming in May 2026 by sharing what they’re adding to their to-be-read piles. From buzzy debuts and fan-favorite authors to under-the-radar titles you’ll want to grab early, they’re sorting through the chaos of new releases so you don’t have to.
Expect strong opinions, a few surprises, and plenty of “place hold now” energy as they build their May reading lists.
Whether you’re planning your next great read or just love staying ahead of the book buzz, this episode is your go-to guide for what’s hitting shelves this May.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Book recommendations:
Rachel’s Titles:
Our Perfect Storm - Carley Fortune
A Parade of Horribles – Matt Dinniman
The Final Target – Nora Roberts
Caller Unknown – Gillian McAllister
The Shippers - Katherine Center
Good Joy, Bad Joy – Mikki Brammer
The Last Page – Katie Holt
The Midnight Train – Matt Haig
Joe’s Titles:
Homebound – Portia Elan
Bromantasy – Maire Roche
Opting Out – Maia Kobabe, Lucky Srikumar
Until Death – Mary Berman
Murder Most Delicious - Danielle Postel-Vinay
Landing in Place – Sherine Hamdy, art by Myra El Mir
Gay Mormon Dad – Chad Anderson
Body Count – Codie Crowley
Not Your Final Girl – Mikayla Randolph
Femme Feral – Sam Beckbessinger
Time stamps:
00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:00:48 A warm welcome to Rachel! 00:01:23 Breaking out of a bit of a slump 00:06:10 Our May 2026 Book Picks! 01:05:06 Outro
Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season, or this list for today’s episode!
Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!
We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!
Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
In this episode of Book Lounge, Joe goes behind the scenes of one of the most important—and most misunderstood—parts of publishing: book cover design.
In the first segment, Erin Fitzsimmons (Sourcebooks) and Karina Granda (Hachette Book Group) join Joe to talk about how they got their start in design, what their creative process looks like today, and how book covers have evolved alongside trends, formats, and reader expectations.
Then, in the second segment, Kathryn G. English (Blackstone Publishing) and Ryan Willwerscheid (Podium Audio) dive into how design shifts across formats, from print to audio, and share some of the biggest surprises that go into creating a cover that connects with readers.
From concept to final product, this conversation pulls back the curtain on the art, strategy, and collaboration behind the covers you can’t stop staring at.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Who’s in this episode:
Segment 1:
Erin Fitzsimmons - Instagram
Karina Granda – Instagram
Segment 2:
Kathryn G. English - Instagram
Ryan Willwerscheid – Instagram
Time stamps:
00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro with Karina Granda and Erin Fitzsimmons 00:03:50 How did you get into this space? 00:09:09 What does on the job training look like for a cover designer? 00:27:54 When do you start desiging covers? 00:39:57 What is a trendy cover vs. A timeless cover? 00:47:07 Thank you to Karina and Erin! 00:47:19 Intro with Ryan Willwerscheid and Kathryn G. English 00:51:03 How do you approach cover design? 01:02:39 Where do you find inspiration when creating covers? 01:06:45 How often do you push comps and trends over author wants? 01:18:11 Do you ever have to change covers right before print? 01:37:50 What would you want people to take away from creating book covers? 01:39:46 Outro
Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List!
Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!
We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!
Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Looking for your next great historical fiction read? Joe is joined by Amy Allen Clark, host of the Book Gang Podcast, to share standout historical fiction recommendations to add to your TBR.
From immersive, character-driven stories to sweeping narratives that bring the past to life, this episode highlights books that will stick with you long after the final page. Amy brings her expertise in discovering buzzy and noteworthy titles, while Joe adds a few picks of his own—including one unexpected curveball.
Whether you’re a longtime historical fiction reader or just looking for a place to start, this episode is packed with compelling recommendations across time periods and styles.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Book recommendations:
Amy’s Picks:
The Half Life - Rachel Beanland
Scandalous Women - Gill Paul
The Final Revival of Opal and Nev - Dawnie Walton
The Foursome - Christina Baker Kline
Happy Land - Dolen Perkins-Valdez
Joe’s Picks:
Let's Call Her Barbie – Renée Rosen
Disco Witches of Fire Island – Blair Fell
The Hounding – Xenobe Purvis
Dead Eleven – Jimmy Juliano
Silver Nitrate – Silvia Moreno-Garcia
Flung out of Space – Grace Ellis & Hannah Templer
Stage Dreams – Melanie Gillman
The Legend of Auntie Po – Shing Yin Khor
Parallel – Matthias Lehmann
Who’s in this episode:
Amy Allen Clark, Book Gang Podcast – links
Articles referenced:
https://bookriot.com/what-makes-a-book-historical-fiction/
https://celadonbooks.com/what-is-historical-fiction/
https://historicalnovelsociety.org/defining-the-genre-2/
Time stamps:
00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro 00:00:53 Hello to Amy! 00:01:30 What is Historical Fiction, and what defines it? 00:04:28 Amy’s thoughts on Historical Fiction 00:12:11 Historical Fiction Recommendations 01:07:28 Outro
Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season, or this list for today’s episode!
Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!
We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!
Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Christina Baker Kline, Heather Webb and Lauren Tarshis join Joe for a wide-ranging conversation on the enduring appeal of historical fiction and why readers keep coming back for stories rooted in the past.
From immersive research to emotional storytelling, they explore how historical fiction brings real moments to life while still leaving room for imagination. The conversation also dives into the challenges of writing in difficult time periods, how authors maintain hope when their subject matter gets heavy and what it means to responsibly shape narratives based on real events.
Plus, each author shares insight into their creative process and how they build vivid, unforgettable worlds across genres and age group.
Whether you're a lifelong historical fiction reader or just starting to explore the genre, this episode offers a thoughtful look at the stories that help us better understand where we’ve been and where we’re going.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Who’s in this episode:
Christina Baker Kline
Website
The Foursome
Heather Webb
Website
The Hope Keeper
Lauren Tarshis
Website
I Survived the Dust Bowl, 1935
I Survived the California Wildfires, 2018 Graphic Novel
Time stamps:
00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro to Historical Fiction 00:01:08 Hello from Christina Baker Kline, Heather Webb & Lauren Tarshis 00:05:07 Diving into the conversation – why historical fiction? 00:49:26 How do you balance the heaviness of historical with maintaining light in your life?
00:58:44 Thank you and outro
Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season!
Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!
We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!
Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Looking for your next favorite author before they blow up? This episode is for you.
Joe is joined by Amy Allen Clark of the Book Gang Podcast, an expert in spotlighting debut authors, for a conversation that starts with a little podcast inside baseball. From prepping interviews to working with first-time authors, they dig into what makes debut conversations so special.
Then, it’s all about the books.
Joe and Amy share standout debut novels from 2022 through 2026 that completely delivered. These are the first books that don’t feel like first books: bold, buzzworthy, and absolutely worth adding to your TBR.
If you loved the Dazzling Debuts conversation, this is your official reading list follow-up.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Book recommendations:
Amy’s Picks:
The Sunflower Boys by Sam Wachman
Harvesting Rosewater by Paria Hassouri
The Sign for Home by Blair Fell
With Friends Like You by Amy Chozick
If I Ruled the World by Amy DuBois Barnett
Joe’s Picks:
Mayra – Nicky Gonzalez
The Dallergut Dream Department Store – Miye Lee
Cactus Country – Zoe Bossiere
The September House – Carissa Orlando
I Want You More – Swan Huntley
The Compound – Aisling Rawle
Julie Chan is Dead – Liann Zhang
How to Survive a Horror Story – Mallory Arnold
Smoke Gets in Your Eyes – Anais Flogny
Fitting Indian – Jyoti Chand
Homebody – Theo Parish
Who’s in this episode:
Amy Allen Clark – Links
Time stamps:
00:00:00 Title 00:00:23 Intro to Dazzling Debuts 00:05:00 Inside baseball – talking to debut authors and the art of the interview 00:25:35 Dazzling Debut Recommendations 01:19:35 Outro
Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season, or this list for today’s episode!
Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog!
We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!
Want to reach out? Send an email to [email protected]. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices - Laat meer zien
