As a bookworm, I love nerding out about books as much as possible. So, when I discovered literature podcasts, I was hooked! These are the best literature and book podcasts out there. Whether you’re looking to discuss classic novels or explore new releases, these podcasts have something for everyone. Grab your headphones and get inspired to read!
What Is a Literature Podcast?
A literature podcast is a type of radio show on the web that features authors talking about (and sometimes reading from) their books. Some podcasts are interviews where an author is asked questions about his/her work; others provide the written version of these same interviews, either in audio or transcript form.
This is a podcast where typically the hosts discusses new releases, books they’re currently reading or ones they are anticipating. It’s an incredibly helpful way if you’re like me (indecisive as hell) and can’t choose your next read. Most of these hosts will let you know if they have spoilers in that specific episode, otherwise it’s safe to bet that there will not be any mind blowing spoilers about the books they cover.
Why Should I Listen To a Literature Podcast?
If you love reading and literature, listening to a literature podcast is a good way to stay up-to-date on what’s new in the literary world. Often, these podcasts present interviews with authors who have just published books – so listening to them will give you an idea of what kind of book that author has written and whether or not you might like it.
There are also podcasts that allow authors to read their own works, which is a great way to discover new books and writers! You can become familiar with an author’s style without actually having to purchase the book (although you’ll be highly encouraged to do so after hearing him/her read).
The Best Podcasts About Literature
Here is a list of some of the best book podcasts out there. By the way, this is in no particular order!
Book Fight
About The Podcast: A podcast about books, reading and writing. Where two friends discuss a mix of fiction and nonfiction novels.
Hosts: Mike Ingram and Tom McAllister
Genres Covered: Fiction and Nonfiction
Where To Listen: Apple Podcasts
Lit Up
About The Podcast: A podcast in which Angela Ledgerwood speaks to authors and writers all over. A podcast that’s devoted to amplify voices and authors stories.
Hosts: Angela Ledgerwood
Genres Covered: N/A
Where To Listen: Spotify, Google Podcasts or Apple Podcasts
Literary Disco
About The Podcast: A trio of writers discussing everything from reading to writing to podcasting. They discuss a number of books as well as have fun engaging conversations with one another
Hosts: Tod Goldberg, Julia Pistell, and Rider Strong
Genres Covered: Fiction and Nonfiction
Where To Listen: Apple Podcast and Podchaser
You’re Booked
About The Podcast: A podcast for people who want to dive into their favorite authors bookshelves. In this podcast Daisy Buchanan talks with guests about their most beloved books, what made them become a book lover and how readers turned to writers
Hosts: Daisy Buchanan
Genres Covered: Fiction
Where To Listen: Apple Podcasts and Acast
Black Chick Lit
About The Podcast: A bi-monthly podcast that focuses on emphasizing books by Black authors. Each month this podcast looks in-depth on a book written by a Black author.
Hosts: Dani and Mollie
Genres Covered: All genres written by Black authors
Where To Listen: Apple podcasts and Google Podcasts
All The Books
About The Podcast: This is a great podcast that dives into new releases to look forward to!
Hosts: Book Riot
Genres Covered: All
Where To Listen: Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, and Spotify
Books N’ Betches
About The Podcast: “Three avid book readers discuss, dissect, and disagree. Each week we dive into a new subgenre to open your minds to new books!”
Hosts: Erica Bakos, Maria, Kristin
Genres Covered: All mostly fiction
Where To Listen: Spotify, Google podcasts, Apple podcasts
Hey Ya
About The Podcast: This podcast contains everything from discussing new releases to favorite classics and more. If you’re a love of Young Adult books, this is a must listen to podcast for you. This is definitely one of the best book podcasts out there.
Hosts: Book Riot
Genres Covered: Young Adult books
Where To Listen: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts
Two Girls Who Read
About The Podcast: “A podcast where readers can rejoice as two ‘booktokers’ discuss a new book related topic every Wednesday. Book discussions, reviews, and LOTS of opinions”
Hosts: Lilly and Olivia
Genres Covered: All especially fiction
Where To Listen: Spotify & Apple Podcasts
Books Unbound
About The Podcast: A podcast in which the hosts discuss new books, books they recently bought and recommendations for readers.
Hosts: Ariel Bissett & Raeleen Lemay
Genres Covered: Fiction
Where To Listen: Spotify & Apple Podcasts
Books & Boba
About The Podcast: An amazing podcast with a big focus on Asian books and authors! Every week the hosts pick an Asian or Asian American author to read and discuss on the podcast.
Hosts: Marvin Yueh and Reera Yoo
Genres Covered: All
Where To Listen: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts
Types of Literature Podcasts
Literature podcasts come in a variety of forms. Some are interviews with authors, where they discuss their books and writing process. There are also podcasts that allow authors to read from their own work – producing the written version of an interview or presentation is a great way to familiarize yourself with an author’s style without spending money on a book.
Some of the best literature podcasts are ones that actively promote representation of BIPOC, AAPI and LGBTQ+ authors and characters.
Benefits of Listening To the Best Book Podcasts
There are a number of benefits of listening to podcasts on literature. I believe one that we can all agree on is that is broadens your horizons as to what to read next. You’ll no longer feel confined to the genres and authors you know you’ll love, but you’ll feel encouraged to read something new.
Check Out More Posts By The Novel Thief
If you’re interested in starting a virtual book club – here’s exactly how to do so!
As your birthday, special holiday or quite literally whatever comes up – don’t be that person without a gift in hand. Here’s some of the best gifts for bookworms.
That’s it – our list of the best literature podcasts. Whether you want to explore classic novels or hear new authors read their work, there’s a podcast for you on this list. So what are you waiting for? Pick one and start listening! And don’t forget to let us know which one is your favorite in the comments.