Readers’ Advisory
Even though my current Want-To-Read list is embarrassingly long I still continue to look for more titles to add to that list. I use many sources from wandering the aisles to scrolling through my Facebook feed, but one of the most recent ways that I have been adding to my list is by listening to podcasts. Podcasts are audio programs that are broadcast via the Internet. They are similar to radio programs without the limitations of signal strength.
You may be familiar with podcasts like True Crime All the Time, Casefile, and True Crime Garage that delve into criminal investigations around the world. Or other podcasts like Secretly Incredibly Fascinating which dedicates each episode to exploring one topic. But did you know that there is a wide selection of podcasts that focus on books?
The website www.bookriot.com broadcasts several podcasts that focus on general book recommendations like All the Books and Get Booked. They also host other shows specializing in genre recommendations. SSF Yeah! is dedicated to helping spread the word about great new Science Fiction and Fantasy titles. For Real spotlights non-fiction releases across interest levels. Past topics on this show include religious memoirs, love stories, and authors with Asian or Pacifc Islander heritage.
Some of your favorite authors may be producing podcasts as well. Gretchen Rubin author of Better than before : mastering the habits of our everyday lives and Outer order, inner calm : declutter & organize to make more room for happiness hosts uses the platform to share insights into how she manages to stay sane in today’s crazy world and advises her listeners on how to establish healthy habits that lead to happiness. Dan Savage transitioned his radio show Savage Love Live to the podcast Savage Lovecast. While his listenership may have grown, Savage still uses his platform to discuss religion, gay rights, politics, and pornography.
But who better to source for book recommendations than a library? The New York Public Library hosts a podcast called The Librarian is In. Each episode two librarians with the NYPL system discuss books and what to read next. The Brooklyn Public Library also has a podcast, Borrowed, that highlights stories that center around the people of Brooklyn and how they use the library.
Most podcasts are available through multiple audio streaming apps like Spotify, Overcast, or Stitcher. Some apps may have a premium option that allows you to listen to the back catalog or bonus content, however most new episodes are available at no charge.