Top Literary Podcasts for Book Lovers
Did you know there are over 1,750,000 podcasts?!
Luckily for you bookaholics, I have sorted through the catalogue and found some of the best literary podcasts for book lovers.
Get ready for hours of bookish chat, author interviews, recommendations and hilarious (sometimes even cheeky) literary jokes!
Whether you’re looking for an in-depth discussion of an author's journey or a quick 15-minute catch up on new writing and industry news - this list has something for you.
Take a look below and get listening!
16 BOOK THEMED PODCASTS
1. You’re Booked
The wonderful Daisy Buchanan interviews fabulous authors to find out what really makes them tick! Join her as she snoops through the bookshelves of guests such as Dawn French and Dolly Alderton as she discovers the stories that inspired them. A chatty, lively podcast to put a smile on your face!
2. The Penguin Podcast
A bi-weekly interview with world-famous authors, celebrities and pioneers. This award-winning podcast has had some incredible guests; from Bananarama to Richard Osman! Each guest is asked to bring 5 objects that have inspired their work. A really easy and informative listen.
3. Black Chick Lit
“A bookish podcast by and about black women”.
This bi-monthly podcast is informative and in-depth, delving into work by black authors from a variety of genres. Discussions about incredible writing take place amidst a lot of laughing and a glass of wine or two! Sounds like the perfect podcast!
4. Sentimental Garbage
A fun and witty discussion about classic chick-lit and why it shouldn’t be seen as a guilty pleasure. Journalist and author Caroline O’Donoghue is joined by female authors to talk about everything from “family comedies” to “bodice-ripping dramas”. A feminist discussion with a lot of laughter; a joyful celebration of the female mind and experience.
5. The Maris Review
Maris Kreizman talks to celebrities and authors about everything bookish! From their own work to books that inspired their writing. Although, it doesn’t stop there. This podcast covers everything from music to football teams, all the while linking it back to the main topic; the love of literature.
6. Audioshelf
If you love audiobooks then this podcast is the one for you! Join best friends Brad and Britney as they review the hottest new audiobooks. Expect interviews, industry gossip and audiobook inspiration. The perfect balance between a fun time and an informative discussion.
7. Between the Covers
Strap yourself in for a seriously in-depth discussion! Between the Covers has been mentioned by The Guardian, Book Riot, the Financial Times, and BuzzFeed as one of the most notable book podcasts for writers and readers around. Host David Naimon leaves no detail spared. A must-listen for any serious book enthusiast.
8. Selected Shorts
One for the story lovers! This podcast is a live event in which famous actors from both stage and screen read both new and classic fiction. Produced by National Public Radio’s WNYC radio station in New York, this storytelling podcast will bring true joy to your podcast library.
9. Anything But Silent
The in-house British Library podcast!
The show's host Cleo Laskarin interviews a wide range of guests - from famous authors to the building's own staff. This podcast covers everything bookish related no matter how weird, wacky or wonderful! If you’re looking for something a little different, this is the one for you.
“Libraries don’t just keep our stories safe; they’re where new stories begin”.
10. Backlisted
“Giving life to old books”
If you’re anything like me and love the occasional blast from the past, then you’ll love this podcast hosted by John Mitchinson and Andy Miller! Each week the two presenters enter a fun and lighthearted discussion with a guest and try to convince the listeners (and sometimes each other) why a book is great. Packed with tons of recommendations of old but great novels, this podcast is popular and very informative! I hope you love it as much as I do.
11. The Guardian Books Podcast
I couldn’t leave off this classic. The Guardians weekly podcasts are in-depth, informative and very interesting. If you’re looking for a podcast that interviews the world’s best authors whilst discussing larger topics and trends, then you should be sure not to miss this.
12. The Stories That Changed My Life
Another popular Apple podcast. We all have stories that leave a trace on us, often inspiring us in our day to day lives. Writers and journalists gather to discuss books that have an important place in their heart. A light-hearted chat that describes itself as being a ‘books podcast for the non-bookish’.
13. Annotated
Book Riot’s very own podcast. The podcast is described as being “like Radiolab for books. Studying different aspects of books, reading and language”. A hearty discussion about all subjects relating to stories, their authors and literature's overwhelming impact on culture and events throughout history.
14. Book Fight
An honest podcast that discusses the successes and flaws of different books. This show discusses stories from past and present, whether the hosts Mike Ingram and Tom McAllister liked the book or not...
15. Moms Don't Have Time To Read Books
Are you too busy to read books these days?
Mother of four, influencer and host of “Moms Don’t Have Time To Read Books”, Zibby Owens understands you completely. This podcast has short episodes, perfect to listen to with a cup of tea during a quick break.
Check in with the lovely world of literature through entertaining interviews with fabulous authors. The perfect way to stay up to date, without giving up your whole day!
16. Freedom, Books, Flowers & The Moon
The TLS Podcast
This weekly podcast on books and culture is brought to you by the writers and editors of the Times Literary Supplement. Presented by a range of hosts on a variety of topics each week - this podcast has something for everyone! A creative and informative podcast that really gets you thinking.
I hope you enjoy these recommendations!
Do you have any more? Get in touch and let me know!