Zero to Well-Read
Book RiotPart book club, part English class, Zero to Well-Read is a fun and informative guide to the books people talk about like everyone has read them. Each week, hosts Jeff O'Neal and Rebecca Schinsky take on a new title—from classics you should have read in high school to prize winners, cult favorites to modern hits—and tell you everything you need to know: the plot, what it feels like to read, why it ... more
| Publishes | Weekly | Episodes | 45 | Founded | 10 months ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | ArtsSociety & CultureBooks | |||
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Latest Episodes
Anthony Bourdain wasn't trying to change restaurant culture when he wrote the viral essay that would become the basis for his bestselling debut memoir Kitchen Confidential, but change it he did. This week, on the occasion of what would have been Bour... more
Elena Ferrante's Neapolitan Quartet sparked a global phenomenon, and in 2024, the New York Times named My Brilliant Friend—the first book in the series—the best book of the century so far. This week, Jeff and Rebecca dive into the book that ignited "... more
It's a dilemma every reader has faced: what do you do when you really want to read a big, intimidating book, but you don't know how to get started? Jeff and Rebecca sit down with Emily Wilson—classics professor, MacArthur Fellow, and the first woman ... more
Maya Angelou's debut autobiography was an instant hit when it was published in 1969, and it has never gone out of print in the nearly 60 years since it was released. This week, Jeff and Rebecca explore what made I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings so gro... more
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Reviews
- Disappointed in their critique
I was enjoying listening to this until I listened to the one about My Brilliant Friend. It’s the first one that I listened to where they both didn’t like the book and it just felt like they were insecure about the fact that they didn’t like it or get the hype. I don’t think it was very helpful in understanding the story, and their criticisms didn’t feel like they were explained. This has put me off listening anymore. You can criticise a book without sounding petty about the hype that it got.
Apple Podcasts3Dutchie2026
United Kingdom9 days ago - It’s about time!
I just discovered this podcast! My first episode was Salman Rushdie‘s Midnights Children - because I put it down last year 2/3 of the way through. I consider myself a reader, but I felt bad about myself for not being able to comprehend one of the “greatest books of all time.” I love/hated that book. After listening to your podcast, I realize that’s the whole point! I think I’m gonna give it another go now that I’m mentally prepared.🤪🤪 I can’t wait to dig into other episodes!
Apple Podcasts5badreed79
United States23 days ago - Never thought I'd hear Jeff say "yassified" on this podcast
but here we are
Apple Podcasts5mrndatjUnited States24 days ago - Cool idea, amateur execution
Please get proper microphone recording equipment, would seriously improve podcast quality.
Apple Podcasts4CondorsporeUnited Statesa month ago - Helpful and Enjoyable
I love going to episodes of this show about books I’ve read (recently or long enough ago to have forgotten many details) and fill out some of the background about the story I missed or about the author that I didn’t know. It’s like a really good lit class without the homework. Also great for books I am unlikely to ever read but where I still want to understand their importance.
Apple Podcasts5Maestoso
Canadaa month ago
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Chart Rankings
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Apple Podcasts | #11 | United States/Arts/Books |
Apple Podcasts | #42 | United States/Arts |
Apple Podcasts | #9 | United Kingdom/Arts/Books |
Apple Podcasts | #33 | Canada/Arts/Books |
Apple Podcasts | #33 | United Kingdom/Arts |
Apple Podcasts | #104 | Canada/Arts |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Zero to Well-Read
What is Zero to Well-Read about and what kind of topics does it cover?
Two hosts guide a conversational, text-focused book club with an English-class rigor. Episodes span classics to contemporary award-winners, unpackting themes, historical context, and what makes each work endure. The show stands out for its thoughtful banter, clear takeaways, and a mix of accessible entry points for new readers with deeper dives for seasoned listeners. It likely appeals to readers who want both companionship and critical reflection, with sponsor-friendly segments that weave in book recommendations and related culture discussions.
Where can I find podcast stats for Zero to Well-Read?
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How many listeners does Zero to Well-Read get?
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Which podcasts are similar to Zero to Well-Read?
These podcasts share a similar audience with Zero to Well-Read:
1. Book Riot - The Podcast
2. All the Books!
3. The Book Review
4. NPR's Book of the Day
5. Well-Read
How many episodes of Zero to Well-Read are there?
Zero to Well-Read launched 10 months ago and published 45 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
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What guests have appeared on Zero to Well-Read?
Recent guests on Zero to Well-Read include:
1. Emily Wilson
2. Namwali Serpell
3. Dr. Laura McGrath
4. Stephanie Foo
5. Vanessa Diaz
6. Kelly Jensen
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.