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 | 491 | Founded | 9 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | ArtsBooks | |||
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Latest Episodes
Is Steinbeck an American Dickens? Does this book have a villain/antagonist? What role do each of the tertiary characters play? And does Steinbeck take his particular use of symbolism too far? These are the sort of questions we’re discussing on this w... more
It’s time to really discuss it: Do Steinbeck’s interstitial, alternating chapters work? We dig in—with differences of opinion. Plus we discuss the dramatic chapter 13, think about when Steinbeck’s use of symbolism works best, and chat about the 2026 ... more
Welcome to the beginning of a new series as we dive into John Steinbeck’s classic novel. In this episode we discuss Steinbeck’s unique use of alternating chapters, his desire to make a political statement, the intensity of his prose, which characters... more
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
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- My favorite book podcast
Absolutely fantastic book review podcast - strikes the right balance between real literary analysis and good banter, the hosts seem like lovely people who I’d want to hang out with, and the reading lists (while ambitious!) have given me some of my favorite reads of the last few years. Also, as a U.S. expat living abroad, the southern accents take me right back home❤️
Keep it up y’all!
Apple Podcasts5Lizzy Lima
United Kingdoma month ago - Love love love
Heidi, you are my favorite podcast host of all time. The boys are pretty good too. Thanks for getting me back into literature!
Apple Podcasts5Aio1972
United Statesa month ago - 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 Podcasts3Anonymous6734United 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 States4 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 States7 months ago
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Chart Rankings
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Apple Podcasts | #63 | United States/Arts/Books |
Apple Podcasts | #185 | United States/Arts |
Apple Podcasts | #169 |  Canada/Arts/Books |
Apple Podcasts | #246 | United Kingdom/Arts/Books |
Apple Podcasts | #123 |  United Arab Emirates/Arts/Books |
Apple Podcasts | #132 |  Indonesia/Arts/Books |
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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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What are the audience demographics for Close Reads Podcast?
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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 Daily Poem
2. The Literary Life Podcast
3. The New Mason Jar with Cindy Rollins
4. Classical Stuff You Should Know
5. Read-Aloud Revival ®
How many episodes of Close Reads Podcast are there?
Close Reads Podcast launched 9 years ago and published 491 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
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