Close Reads Podcast
Goldberry StudiosClose Reads is a book-club podcast for the incurable reader co-hosted by David Kern, Heidi White, Sean Johnson, and occasionally Tim McIntosh. We read good books and talk about them. This is a show for amateurs in the best sense. This is not an experts show: we’re book lovers, book enthusiasts. Our goal is have empathetic and intelligent conversations about good books. Close Reads is produced by G... more
| Publishes | Weekly | Episodes | 488 | Founded | 9 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | BooksArts | |||
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Latest Episodes
Welcome to the conclusion of our series on Niall William’s novel, as we do our best to answer your questions!
This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit closereads.substack... more
Welcome back to our ongoing series on Niall Williams’ novel! This we discuss whether the novel has a “happy” ending, its final verdict on what happiness is, Williams’ subtle use of symbolism, Noe’s vocation, and much more.
This is a public episode... more
Welcome back to our ongoing series on Niall Williams’ novel, This Is Happiness. This week we discuss some audience comments, the book’s examination of the relationship between poetics and rhetoric, the difference between nostalgia and sentimentality,... more
Welcome back to our ongoing series on Niall Williams’ lovely novel. This week we discuss what this book has to say about happiness, the themes of hope and cynicism, Christy the romantic, coming of age, and our favorite passages in these chapters. Hop... more
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- Audio sounds off
I keep coming back hoping to listen but the audio seems very off compared to other podcasts. Echos and difficulty hearing the podcasts hosts due to clarity.
Apple Podcasts3Anonymous6734
United States3 months ago - Cry Havoc! And Let Slip the Bookhounds of War.
At long last, the parasocial relationships I have dreamed of my entire adult life. With bibliophilic friends like these, who needs to leave mom’s basement?
Put on a kettle. Brew a fragrant cup of Earl Grey. Let all of the cats outside. It’s time for an episode of Close Reads.
Apple Podcasts5Bootsy DuBoisUnited States3 months ago - Constant Literary Inspiration
I have been listening for 7+ years and I am so grateful to all of the hosts over the years. I get sad when I don’t get to read a book and miss out. I think literary FOMO might be the best kind. Thank you for your inspiration for my reading life!
Apple Podcasts5Kelsie HartleyUnited States6 months ago As to many podcasts the team is just having a good time cheatchating. I have to stop at 12 minutes, so far Willa Cather is barely part of the conversation.
Podcast Addict29 months agoabl- Hoping for better
I love Tim and his LOVE of literature. However, It’s obvious David doesn’t read the books, which is insulting to the readers and listeners of this podcast. If you are hoping listeners learn how to read closely, I would think it’s important for the hosts to show that as they read. His treatment of Angelina in earlier episodes is alarming—how can you teach about virtue and not live it out in your daily lives?
Apple Podcasts2LJLM21United Statesa year ago
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Apple Podcasts | #77 | United States/Arts/Books |
Apple Podcasts | #213 | United States/Arts |
Apple Podcasts | #106 |  Canada/Arts/Books |
Apple Podcasts | #80 |  France/Arts/Books |
Apple Podcasts | #208 |  Australia/Arts/Books |
Apple Podcasts | #228 | France/Arts |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Close Reads Podcast
What is Close Reads Podcast about and what kind of topics does it cover?
A thoughtful, literature-forward discussion format that centers close-reading and interpretive dialogue around classic and contemporary novels. Conversations commonly explore themes such as memory, happiness, moral ambiguity, community, and the interplay between faith, culture, and literature. The hosts bring a warm, collaborative dynamic, often weaving in personal anecdotes, reader feedback, and practical takeaways for listeners who want to read more closely. Notable strengths include deep textual analysis, accessible explanations of literary concepts, and a welcoming, non-expert tone that invites multiple perspectives. A few recurring notes from listeners highlight strong host chemistry and educational insights, with occasional critiques ... more
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How many listeners does Close Reads Podcast get?
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How many subscribers and views does Close Reads Podcast have?
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Which podcasts are similar to Close Reads Podcast?
These podcasts share a similar audience with Close Reads Podcast:
1. The Literary Life Podcast
2. Read-Aloud Revival ®
3. The Daily Poem
4. The Russell Moore Show
5. The History of Literature
How many episodes of Close Reads Podcast are there?
Close Reads Podcast launched 9 years ago and published 488 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
How do I contact Close Reads Podcast?
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What guests have appeared on Close Reads Podcast?
Recent guests on Close Reads Podcast include:
1. Tim McIntosh
2. Greg Wilbur
To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.