Next to reading a book, there is nothing I like more than talking about books. But I’m pretty finicky when it comes to hearing other people talk about books.  

Too superficial or silly and I’m out. Too navel-gazing and self-regarding and I’m out. Too rambling and I am out!

Which is why I didn’t expect to enjoy the New York Times Book Review podcast as much as I do. Although I read it cover to cover, somehow I expected it to take itself too seriously with dense reviews and obscure literary references.

Instead, the author interviews are delightfully on point. Host John Williams, who recently decamped to the Washington Post, asks straightforward questions about characters, research and writing schedules.

Here’s an example: In an avalanche of fall reading, I’d reluctantly decided to skip Alice Elliott Dark’s new novel, “Fellowship Point," until I heard her on the book review podcast.  

Her deep interest in conservation hooked me and now the audiobook is in my library queue.

Here’s one other must-listen bookish podcast: “What Should I Read Next?”  

The host, Anne Bogel, is warm and enthusiastic and declares that she “doesn’t get bossy” with reading recommendations. She’s also a master matchmaker when it comes to books.

Check out the episode about mood reading, where instead of gritting your teeth and soldiering on with that trendy 600 page tome everyone else is reading, you release the guilt and succumb to the novel that fits your mood.

And don’t miss the episode titled, “The Art of a Great Reading Experience.”  

The guest is an oil and watercolor painter and their conversation about expanding the range of books the artist is interested in is exceptional.

If you’ve ever felt stuck in a reading rut, this episode will reignite your curiosity.

— Kerri Miller | MPR News