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 | 519 | Founded | 10 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | BooksArts | |||
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Latest Episodes
Welcome back to our ongoing conversation about Mark Twain’s classic novel. This week we discuss faux Dukes and Dauphins, satire and allegory, local conflicts and civil wars, and much more, including the protean nature of the book. Happy listening! more
Welcome back to our series on Mark Twain’s most essential novel. This week we discuss:
* The development of Huck Finn’s conscience
* Jim’s character development
* The river as a symbol of journey and uncertainty
* The expurgated passage
* Twain... more
In this second tribute episode to Wendell Berry, Martin Cothran and Alan Cornett join the show to share what it was like to know Berry the man, not just the great literary figure.
This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other ... more
One of our literary heroes, the great Wendell Berry, died this week at the age of 92 and we’re here to pay tribute. In this episode, we consider his influence on literature, agriculture, and culture, plus share some personal stories, favorite passage... 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 Kingdom7 months 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 States7 months 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 States9 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 States9 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 Statesa year ago
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Apple Podcasts | #76 | United States/Arts/Books |
Apple Podcasts | #197 | United States/Arts |
Apple Podcasts | #70 |  Canada/Arts/Books |
Apple Podcasts | #185 | Canada/Arts |
Apple Podcasts | #223 | United Kingdom/Arts/Books |
Apple Podcasts | #86 |  Singapore/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?
Close Reads is a book-club style show that treats literature as a collaborative puzzle, blending close-reading techniques with thoughtful discussion of themes, context, and authorial craft. Across episodes, the trio (often joined by Tim McIntosh) dives into classic and modern works, unpacking structure, symbolism, and moral questions, while weaving inFaith-informed perspectives, teaching experiences, and personal anecdotes. The format emphasizes accessible, empathetic conversation and practical reading guidance, making it appealing to readers who want both rigorous analysis and a welcoming didactic vibe. A standout aspect is the long-running, collaborative vibe among the hosts, plus a penchant for connecting literature to broader cultural a... more
Where can I find podcast stats for Close Reads Podcast?
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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 Literary Life Podcast
2. The Daily Poem
3. The New Mason Jar with Cindy Rollins
4. Classical Stuff You Should Know
5. Scholé Sisters: Camaraderie for Classical Homeschooling Mamas
How many episodes of Close Reads Podcast are there?
Close Reads Podcast launched 10 years ago and published 519 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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Where can I see ratings and reviews for Close Reads Podcast?
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What guests have appeared on Close Reads Podcast?
Recent guests on Close Reads Podcast include:
1. Martin Cothran
2. Alan Cornett
3. Angel Adams Parham
4. Joshua Gibbs
5. Tim McIntosh
6. 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.