21 Best Podcasts About Books of 2025 You Should Listen to Next

Most adults have responsibilities that prevent them from reading as much as they would like. And while we can't put a bookmark in life's endless lists of to-dos and demands as we immerse ourselves in another marvelous read, a good podcast makes for a great consolation.

If you're searching for more than just podcasts that read books to you, this list has the freshest episodes. But before we look at the best podcasts about books, it's worth giving the Headway app a special shout-out. 

Headway takes the most important insights of your book of choice and presents them in easy-to-understand 15-minute summaries you can read or listen to on the go. This makes our app ideal for those who are invested in self-growth but lack time to achieve their goals.

Download Headway and rediscover the joy of learning, one summary at a time.

Quick answer: What are the top 5 book podcasts of 2025?

1. 'Totally Booked with Zibby' — Daily insider access to literary world buzz with award-winning host Zibby Owens interviewing today's most compelling authors in bite-sized episodes.

2. 'The New Yorker: Fiction' — Monthly masterclass in storytelling where celebrated authors read and discuss classic stories from the magazine's legendary archive with fiction editor Deborah Treisman.

3. 'If Books Could Kill' — Sharp-witted takedowns of popular nonfiction bestsellers that'll make you question everything you thought you knew about airport bookstore favorites.

4. 'What Should I Read Next?' — Personal book matchmaking service where host Anne Bogel helps solve every reader's biggest dilemma by recommending their perfect next read.

5. 'The Stacks' — Deep conversations exploring how books shape our understanding of culture, race, and politics, hosted by Traci Thomas with diverse voices and monthly book club discussions.

21 best podcasts about books you should listen to next

These podcasts hit every mood and reading craving you can imagine. Want daily book buzz? We've got you covered. Curious about forgotten literary gems? There's also a show for that.

Ready to discover your next favourite podcast? Let's get started!

1. I'll Read What She's Reading

What happens when your book club friends get completely unhinged and start casting fictional characters on reality TV? This book club podcast brings that chaotic energy with hosts Reggie, Mikayla, and Kennedy, who don't just discuss books. They cast them, rank them, and turn every reading experience into pure entertainment. 

Think of it as your most dramatic book club friends mixed with BookTok energy, complete with author interviews and behind-the-scenes creator chats.

Episode release frequency: Weekly. 

Average episode length: ≈ 50 minutes.

What to expect? Recent episodes dive into everything from casting Sarah J. Maas characters on reality TV shows, dissecting romantic sensations like 'Shield of Sparrows', and getting real about under-hyped TBR gems. 

You'll hear author interviews (like their chat with Ally Carter), book-to-screen adaptation breakdowns, and plenty of four-star reads that might just become your new favorite books.

2. The Stacks

What if you could eavesdrop on conversations where books aren't just reviewed, but deeply explored for how they shape our understanding of culture, race, and politics? Host Traci Thomas creates exactly that space in 'The Stacks,' bringing together diverse voices to talk about books and examine how literature influences our world. 

This isn't your typical book club — it's where reading meets real-world impact, featuring author interviews and monthly deep dives that make you think differently about every book on your bookshelf.

Episode release frequency: Weekly. 

Average episode length: ≈ 45 minutes.

What to expect? Recent episodes feature fascinating conversations like oral historian Garrett M. Graff discussing his work on 9/11 and D-Day, author Addie E. Citchens exploring Black Southern family drama, and deep dives into literary giants like Toni Morrison's 'God Help the Child.' 

You'll also hear about contemporary issues through books like Alexis Madrigal's exploration of Oakland's legacy and Megan Greenwell's investigation into private equity's impact on communities.

3. If Books Could Kill

What happens when two sharp-witted hosts decide to dissect the airport bestsellers that somehow convinced millions of people to completely reorganize their lives? Michael Hobbes and Peter Shamshiri deliver exactly that kind of brilliant takedown in 'If Books Could Kill,' where they examine popular nonfiction books with the skepticism they deserve. 

This podcast doesn't just review books — it investigates how certain titles became cultural phenomena despite questionable advice or dubious research.

Episode release frequency: Biweekly. 

Average episode length: ≈ 55 minutes.

What to expect? Recent episodes tackle everything from Malcolm Gladwell's 'Blink' and its impact on decision-making science to deep dives into controversial topics like COVID-19 policies and Supreme Court cases. 

You'll definitely get a sharp analysis of self-help phenomena, political books, and social media influencers. Plus, bonus content exploring figures like Josh Hawley's take on masculinity and Steve Harvey's relationship advice that'll make you question your entire bookshelf.

4. Totally Booked with Zibby

What if you could get daily insider access to the literary world's hottest releases and most buzzworthy authors without having to scour every bookshop and reading list yourself? Zibby Owens delivers exactly that as a bookstore owner, publisher, and literary curator who interviews today's most compelling voices in her award-winning daily show. 

With over 2,000 episodes and 15 million downloads, this podcast has become the go-to source for book lovers seeking their next great read and behind-the-scenes author insights.

Episode release frequency: Daily. 

Average episode length: ≈ 20 minutes.

What to expect? You'll discover everything from sports memoirs and indie bookstore battles to pregnancy guides and coming-of-age mysteries. This show is also about authentic author interviews that reveal the stories behind the stories on your bookshelf.

5. The Book Review

What if you could get insider access to the conversations happening behind the scenes at The New York Times' Book Review, where literary heavyweights decide which books deserve your attention? Host Gilbert Cruz and the acclaimed editors from The New York Times bring you exactly that — deep dives into the week's most important releases and the literary world's biggest conversations.

Episode release frequency: Weekly. 

Average episode length: ≈ 40 minutes.

What to expect? Recent episodes explore everything from Min Jin Lee's 'Pachinko' being named one of the 100 best books of the 21st century to nuclear apocalypse literature and summer road trip reads. 

You'll hear in-depth discussions about debut novels like 'The Catch' by Yrsa Daley-Ward, as well as book club conversations about Virginia Woolf's 'Mrs. Dalloway' at 100, and expert analysis of the year's standout titles that are reshaping the literary world.

6. The Reading Life

What if you could sit in on intimate conversations where celebrated authors read from their latest works and share the stories behind their creative process? Former Times-Picayune book editor Susan Larson creates exactly that atmosphere in 'The Reading Life,' where both established and emerging writers discuss their craft in thoughtful, unhurried conversations. 

This podcast feels like being invited into an exclusive literary salon where authors can truly dive deep into what drives their writing.

Episode release frequency: Weekly. 

Average episode length: ≈ 27 minutes.

What to expect? Recent shows deliver compelling author interviews, including Addie Citchens discussing her latest work, James E. McWilliams exploring his writing journey, and a two-part conversation with Chuck Perkins. 

You'll meet J.M. Redmann, Paul Elie, James Lee Burke, and Laura Lippman, each sharing insights about their books that you won't find in typical author interviews on social media or standard book podcasts.

7. The Bookish Podcast

What if someone created a podcast specifically for romance readers who want to dive deep into the spicy, swoony, and sometimes deliciously dark side of their favorite books? Host Tanvi delivers exactly that as a self-proclaimed romance aficionado who shares solo talks and author interviews without any judgment about fictional men or steaminess levels. 

This podcast celebrates everything from sweet romance to the kind of content that comes with content warnings, making it the perfect space for readers who want honest conversations about their TBR pile.

Episode release frequency: Irregular. 

Average episode length: ≈ 50 minutes.

What to expect? Recent episodes explore everything from romance ARCs and reading updates to deep dives into why millions of women go crazy over fictional men and what makes certain book boyfriends so irresistible. 

You'll hear author interviews with contemporary romance writers like Ashley Jacobs and discussions about strong female characters, dark fantasy romance series, and even "smut talk" about books like 'Paradise Entombed'.

8. Book Fight

What happens when two friends decide to celebrate the books that didn't make it to the bestseller lists but absolutely deserve your attention? Hosts Mike Ingram and Tom McAllister created 'Book Fight' as a space to champion overlooked literary gems while maintaining the spirit of friendship and humor that makes great book conversations memorable. 

This podcast proves that the best book recommendations often come from passionate readers who aren't afraid to argue about why certain books deserve a spot on your bookshelf.

Episode release frequency: Biweekly. 

Average episode length: ≈ 25 minutes.

What to expect? Recent episodes from their final season explore everything from E.M. Forster's 'A Passage to India' and Julian Barnes' memoir about death and dying, deep dives into 'A Clockwork Orange' and fanfiction culture. 

You'll hear thoughtful discussions about diverse topics like Nora Ephron's 'Heartburn,' flash fiction techniques, and Barbara Pym's literary comeback. Check it out to find more about their signature blend of literary analysis and genuine friendship that made this one of the most beloved book shows for over 13 years.

9. Overdue

What if you could finally tackle that intimidating pile of books you've been meaning to read without any judgment about how long they've been sitting there? Hosts Andrew and Craig created 'Overdue' to celebrate your literary limitations rather than make you feel guilty about them, tackling everything from classic literature and obscure plays to goofy children's books with humor and genuine insight. 

This podcast proves that it's never too late to dive into those books that have been gathering dust on your bookshelf.

Episode release frequency: Weekly. 

Average episode length: ≈ 45 minutes.

What to expect? Recent episodes explore an eclectic mix, including Alyssa Cole's 'An Extraordinary Union,' Rachel Ingalls' 'Mrs. Caliban' (featuring giant fish romance), Peter Benchley's 'Jaws,' and Franz Kafka's 'The Trial.' 

You'll also hear deep dives into classic literature like Françoise Sagan's 'Bonjour Tristesse', Sarah Gailey's speculative fiction, and even special series like their exploration of J.R.R. Tolkien's 'The Silmarillion'.

10. Books & Boba

What if you could snoop around your favorite authors' bookshelves and discover the guilty pleasures hiding behind their intellectual facades? Host Daisy Buchanan creates exactly that experience as your 'Book Inspector,' asking guests about everything from the first forbidden books they read under the covers to those impressive hardbacks they never actually finished.

This podcast celebrates the messy, honest reality of being a book lover with intelligence and irreverence, and guests like Dolly Alderton and Nina Stibbe share their most authentic reading memories.

Episode release frequency: Weekly. 

Average episode length: ≈ 25 minutes.

What to expect? Recent episodes feature the themed 'Beach Reads' series, which covers everything from books that'll make you cry on your sunlounger to raunchy reads and holiday escapism recommendations. 

You'll discover perfect summer reading lists curated by Daisy, hear about heatwave crimewave selections, and enjoy special episodes like her live conversation with Donna Freitas in Barcelona. You can also join their in-depth chat with Coco Mellors about motherhood and book boxing, delivered with the kind of bookish wit that makes your reading life feel more fun.

11. The New Yorker: Fiction

What if you could listen to some of the world's most celebrated authors read and discuss stories from The New Yorker's legendary archive with the magazine's fiction editor? Each month, Deborah Treisman invites accomplished writers to select a piece from the renowned collection, creating intimate conversations that reveal how great literature inspires other great literature.

This podcast offers a masterclass in storytelling, featuring some of the finest fiction ever published alongside insights from today's most respected voices in the literary world.

Episode release frequency: Monthly. 

Average episode length: ≈ 25 minutes.

What to expect? Recent episodes feature Lauren Groff reading Elizabeth Hardwick's 'The Faithful,' Souvankham Thammavongsa discussing Samanta Schweblin's 'The Size of Things,' and Edwidge Danticat exploring Zadie Smith's 'Two Men Arrive in a Village.' 

You'll hear celebrated authors like Yiyun Li, David Wright Falade, Paul Theroux, and Jennifer Egan share their perspectives on classic New Yorker stories. They offer book lovers unique insights into how masterful fiction works and why certain stories from the magazine's archive continue to resonate decades after publication.

12. The Maris Review

What if you could peek behind the curtain of your favorite authors' creative lives and discover not just their latest books, but the shows, music, and random internet rabbit holes that fuel their imagination? Cultural critic and bestselling author Maris Kreizman creates exactly that intimate experience, hosting conversations with writers about their creative processes, influences, and the cultural touchstones shaping their work. 

This podcast goes beyond typical author interviews to explore how contemporary culture feeds into great literature.

Episode release frequency: Weekly. 

Average episode length: ≈ 32 minutes.

What to expect? Recent episodes feature fascinating conversations, including Tyriek White discussing his prize-winning novel 'We Are A Haunting,' Sarah Blakley-Cartwright exploring her latest work 'Alice Sadie Celine,' and bestselling author Naomi Alderman talking about 'The Future' during a live event at Strand Bookstore in New York. 

You'll discover new releases through author interviews with writers like Casey Plett, K-Ming Chang, Ed Park, and Stephanie Land, all sharing insights about their books and the pop culture moments that inspire their writing.

13. Backlisted

What happens when passionate book lovers decide to rescue forgotten literary gems from obscurity and give them the attention they truly deserve? Hosts John Mitchinson and Andy Miller have been doing exactly that since 2015, championing books that may not have made it to bestseller lists but absolutely belong on your reading list. 

This beloved podcast has become a sanctuary for discovering classic literature you've never heard of, delivered with the kind of passionate, banter-filled arguments that make you want to immediately add every title to your TBR.

Episode release frequency: Biweekly. 

Average episode length: ≈15 minutes.

What to expect? You'll discover overlooked masterpieces like Elizabeth Taylor's 'Angel,' Sylvia Townsend Warner's 'The Corner That Held Them,' and even special summer reading recommendations that prove great books come in all forms. And don't forget about their bonus content, which is available through their Patreon for true book lovers who can't get enough backlisted treasures.

14. Book Riot

What if you could get all the latest literary world gossip, industry insider news, and hottest book recommendations from the largest independent editorial book site in North America? Hosts Jeff O'Neal and Rebecca Schinsky deliver exactly that through Book Riot's podcast, covering everything from publishing industry events and adaptations to new releases and bookish trends. 

This podcast serves as your one-stop source for staying current with the literary world while discovering diverse voices across all genres.

Episode release frequency: Weekly. 

Average episode length: ≈ 35 minutes.

What to expect? Recent episodes dive into timely topics like fall adaptation previews, discussions about what makes someone "well-read," and analysis of the 2025 Booker Prize longlist featuring new books from authors like Kamala Harris. 

You'll hear industry insights about supporting independent media, deep dives into historical book rankings from 1995, and conversations with experts like former librarian Rodney Freeman about Black librarianship. All of them are delivered with the enthusiasm that's made Book Riot a go-to destination for book lovers seeking their next great read.

15. The Penguin Podcast

What if you could get exclusive behind-the-scenes access to one of the world's most iconic publishing houses and discover the stories behind your favorite books? The Penguin Podcast's new 'Ask Penguin' series takes you inside Penguin Books to meet incredible authors and the people who work there. 

This podcast offers the perfect blend of industry insights and book recommendations from one of publishing's most respected names.

Episode release frequency: Biweekly. 

Average episode length: ≈ 45 minutes.

What to expect? You'll hear industry insights about supporting independent media, deep dives into historical book rankings from 1995, and conversations with experts like former librarian Rodney Freeman about Black librarianship — all delivered with the enthusiasm that's made Book Riot a go-to destination for book lovers seeking their next great read.

16. What Should I Read Next?

What if you could have a personal book matchmaker who takes the time to understand exactly what you love and hate and are currently reading before suggesting your perfect next book? Host Anne Bogel from the Modern Mrs. Darcy blog does exactly that! He interviews readers each week about their reading preferences and then performs what she calls "literary matchmaking". The goal is simple: to help solve that age-old dilemma every book lover faces. 

This podcast turns finding your next great read into an art form, with personalized book recommendations that actually fit your unique reading life.

Episode release frequency: Weekly. 

Average episode length: ≈ 40 minutes.

What to expect? Recent episodes feature the team's best summer book recommendations across genres, conversations with authors like Julie Berry about discovering smart books with big hearts, and discussions about reading goals that hit just the right level of challenge. 

You'll hear from readers seeking everything from sci-fi and fantasy recommendations to setting-driven stories. Plus, special episodes covering midyear reading check-ins and advice for slowing down to truly savor your favorite books — all designed to help you build a more satisfying reading life.

Go beyond podcasts

Grow on the go with Headway:
• Save key moments with audio highlights
• Adjust speed to fit your pace
• Learn from book summaries in a clear narrative voice

Start now

17. NPR's Book of the Day

What if you could get a daily dose of the best new writing without having to choose from endless book lists or spend hours researching your next read? NPR's Book of the Day delivers exactly that — a snackable, pocket-sized podcast that introduces you to today's most compelling authors and their latest works in 15 minutes or less. 

Whether you're looking to engage with the big questions of our times or temporarily escape from them, this daily show covers all genres, moods, and writing styles to keep you connected to the literary world.

Episode release frequency: Daily. 

Average episode length: ≈ 12 minutes.

What to expect? Recent episodes feature diverse conversations. You'll hear from cooking stars Nadiya Hussain and Kristen Kish discussing their new cookbooks, and from Atlantic writer James Parker exploring his odes and gratitude practices.

You'll also discover insightful conversations with authors like Xenobe Purvis, who dives into her novel The Hounding, set in 18th-century England, and Emily Hunt Kivel, whose novel Dwelling fictionalizes the American housing crisis.

18. Hey YA

What if there were a podcast that celebrated young adult literature without any of the judgment or dismissiveness that often surrounds the genre? Hey YA does exactly that, exploring everything from great new releases to favorite classic reads, plus news about the latest on-screen adaptations that are bringing beloved YA stories to life. 

This podcast creates a judgment-free zone where hosts Kelly and Erica can dive deep into the exciting world of young adult literature with the enthusiasm it truly deserves.

Episode release frequency: Biweekly. 

Average episode length: ≈ 60 minutes.

What to expect? You'll discover everything from Alexis Okeowo's exploration of Alabama's complicated history to Emily Hunt Kivel's novel 'Dwelling' that fictionalizes the American housing crisis. Try it out, especially if you like nonfiction covering climate science with Kate Marvel and art analysis from authors exploring meaning in creative expression.

19. Read or Dead

What if you could get expert guidance through the thrilling worlds of mystery, crime, and horror literature from hosts who know exactly which spine-tingling books deserve a spot on your reading list? Katie McLain Horner and Kendra Winchester have created 'Read or Dead' as your ultimate guide to the best in mystery and thriller literature, exploring everything from historical crime novels to the most anticipated new releases. 

Episode release frequency: Biweekly. 

Average episode length: ≈ 45 minutes.

What to expect? Recent episodes dive into historical crime and horror novels, celebrate Women in Translation Month with international mystery recommendations, and tackle those books that have been sitting on your TBR for far too long. 

You'll discover the most anticipated mysteries and thrillers of 2025 and explore themed recommendations for audiobook lovers and Pride Month reads. Also, you will get expert insights on everything from feminist mysteries to genre-bending novels that blur the lines between mystery, thriller, and horror — all designed to help you find your next unputdownable read.

20. Sentimental Garbage 

What if there was a place to celebrate all the culture we secretly love but society sometimes makes us feel ashamed of — from chick-lit novels to romantic comedies that touch our hearts? Host Caroline O'Donoghue created Sentimental Garbage as exactly that safe space, exploring the female experience through discussions about books, shows, and cultural moments that deserve more respect than they typically receive. 

This podcast champions the idea that loving something deeply doesn't make it "garbage," even if the literary world might turn its nose up at your favorite guilty pleasures.

Episode release frequency: Weekly. 

Average episode length: ≈ 35 minutes.

What to expect? Recent episodes dive into fascinating topics like 'The Special Relationship', exploring American women's century-long fascination with English men. Check it out if you don't want to miss the final farewell to 'Sex and the City' discussions and deep dives into 'His Dark Materials' with author Ella Risbridger. 

You'll hear explorations of beloved franchises like 'The Hunger Games' prequels, conversations about 'The Fall' (2006) with Jen Cownie, and discussions about cult classics like 'Labyrinth'.

21. So Many Damn Books

What if you could hang out at a literary bar with friends who share your exact frustration about the never-ending pile of books you want to read but never have time for? Christopher Hermelin created 'So Many Damn Books' to capture exactly that feeling, inviting guests to the Damn Library in Brooklyn to discuss reading, literature, and publishing — all while enjoying specially crafted themed cocktails. 

This podcast turns the overwhelming anxiety of your TBR into a celebration, proving that sometimes the best way to deal with too many books is to talk about them with a drink in hand.

Episode release frequency: Biweekly. 

Average episode length: ≈ 40 minutes.

What to expect? Recent episodes feature their favorite reads of 2025 so far, author conversations including Allison King discussing 'The Phoenix Pencil Company' and Tyler Wetherall exploring 'Amphibian' and mermaids. 

You'll also hear everything from Kate Folk's 'Sky Daddy' and Marlen Haushofer's 'The Wall' to Jeanne Thornton's novel about amateur video game coders. It’s all discussed with the kind of genuine book enthusiasm that makes you want to immediately add every title to your reading list — even if it means your TBR gets even more unmanageable.

With Headway, your favorite books are always with you

These 21 best book podcasts offer incredible insights into the reading life, but sometimes you need more than just listening — you need actionable knowledge you can apply right away.

That's where Headway transforms your relationship with books. While podcasts introduce you to fascinating titles and authors, Headway gives you the key insights from bestselling nonfiction books in just 15 minutes.

If you're looking for books that can help you adopt a growth mindset, then you may consider reading or listening to these book summaries:

• 'How to Change Things When Change is Hard' by Dan Heath and Chip Heath;

• 'Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life… And Maybe the World' by William H. McRaven;

• 'How to Stop Worrying and Start Living' by Dale Carnegie.

Your future self will thank you for taking this step toward more efficient learning.