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 | 501 | Founded | 9 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | BooksArts | |||
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Latest Episodes
Welcome back to our series on Margart Kennedy’s novel. This week we’re discussing Bruce’s confession, Hebe’s adventure (and insight into people), Siddal’s perceptions despite his sloth, patience and the spiritual life, patience vs wrath, and much mor... more
Welcome back to another conversation about Margaret Kennedy’s The Feast. This week we begin by discussing some audience comments, then we discuss a number of topics, including poor Bruce and his bad decisions, Mrs Gifford vs Mrs Cove, and the differe... more
And then it was Monday in Margaret Kennedy’s The Feast.
This week topics of discussion includes the way the various characters may (or may not) represent the seven deadly sins, which characters we root for the most (and which we despise the most), ... more
Welcome to the first episode of a new series on Margaret Kennedy’s novel, The Feast. We discuss the book’s allegorical bent (and how it’s different than most allegorical novels), the role of each of the main characters, the unique structure of the bo... more
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Reviews
- 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 Kingdom3 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 States3 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 States5 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 States6 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 States9 months ago
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Chart Rankings
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Apple Podcasts | #62 | United States/Arts/Books |
Apple Podcasts | #188 | United States/Arts |
Apple Podcasts | #87 |  Canada/Arts/Books |
Apple Podcasts | #147 |  Italy/Arts/Books |
Apple Podcasts | #249 | Italy/Arts |
Apple Podcasts | #119 |  Israel/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?
This show is a thoughtful book club podcast where a trio of regular hosts—David Kern, Heidi White, and Sean Johnson—read and discuss classic and contemporary literature with a focus on close reading, moral nuance, and thematic insight. Episodes cover a wide range of titles—from American realist novels to European literature and occasional modern works—blending literary analysis with teaching experience, personal reflection, and audience interaction. A notable strength is the inclusive, conversational vibe that invites listeners to think critically about character, theme, and craft without feeling overwhelmed by academic jargon. Occasional guests and live events broaden the discussion, while ongoing book discussions, reader questions, and cr... 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. Scholé Sisters: Camaraderie for Classical Homeschooling Mamas
4. The New Mason Jar with Cindy Rollins
5. Classical Stuff You Should Know
How many episodes of Close Reads Podcast are there?
Close Reads Podcast launched 9 years ago and published 501 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. 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.