Episodes
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Recorded live at the 2024 Texas Book Festival in Austin, this episode features authors Karla Cornejo Villavicencio (The Undocumented Americans, Catalina) and Amanda Montell (Cultish, The Age of Magical Overthinking). The authors discuss narrating their own audiobooks, touching on everything from incorporating humor and emotion to the challenges of audiobook production. They also offer advice for first-time narrators, discuss the nuances of audiobooks compared to print, and reflect on how their distinct styles shape the listening experience.
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About Karla:Karla Cornejo Villavicencio is an Ecuadorian-American writer and the author of The Undocumented Americans and Catalina. Her work, which focuses on race, culture, and immigration, has appeared in The New York Times, The New Yorker, Vogue, Elle, Interview, and on NPR.
About Amanda:Amanda Montell is an American writer and the author of Wordslut and Cultish. Her work, which focuses on language, linguistics, and pop culture, has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, Wired, and on NPR.
Get Karla's books:
CatalinaThe Undocumented AmericansGet Amanda’s books:
CultishWordslutThe Age of Magical Overthinking -
In this episode, we chat with acclaimed author, poet, and painter Percival Everett to discuss his award-winning novel James— the 2024 National Book Award winner and Libro.fm’s Audiobook of the Year. Percival shares his thoughts on the magic of language, the role of place in storytelling, and the whirlwind experience of his recent book tour. He also reflects on balancing his many creative passions, his journey as a writer, and the profound power of literature.
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About Percival:Percival Everett is a celebrated American writer and a Distinguished Professor of English at USC whose 2024 novel James won the National Book Award. His work has earned numerous honors, including the PEN/Jean Stein Book Award, the NBCC Ivan Sandrof Life Achievement Award, and the Windham-Campbell Prize. In 2023, his novel Erasure was adapted into the feature film American Fiction.
Get Percival’s books:
JamesThe TreesErasureBooks discussed on today’s episode:
The Way of All Flesh by Samuel ButlerDvorak's Prophecy by Joseph HorowitzLast Room On The Left by Leah KonenThe Snow Killer by Ross GreenwoodWe Could Be Rats by Emily Austin -
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In this episode, we sit down with Karla Cornejo Villavicencio, author of The Undocumented Americans and Catalina, which was longlisted for the 2024 National Book Awards. Cornejo Villavicencio opens up about her experience with meeting readers for the first time and how the unpredictability of the publishing world has shaped her perspective. She also discusses the process of recording Catalina’s audiobook and how it led to her connecting with the novel in a deeper, more personal way.
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Use promo code: SWITCH when signing up for a new Libro.fm membership to get two additional credits to use on any audiobooks—meaning you’ll have three from the start.
About Karla:Karla Cornejo Villavicencio is an Ecuadorian-American writer and the author of The Undocumented Americans and Catalina. Catalina was longlisted for the 2024 National Book Award for Fiction. Her work, which focuses on race, culture, and immigration, has appeared in The New York Times, The New Yorker, Vogue, Elle, Interview, and on NPR.
Get Karla's books:
CatalinaThe Undocumented AmericansBooks discussed on today’s episode:
Model Home by Rivers SolomonFingersmith by Sarah WatersThe Drowned and the Saved by Primo Levi -
In this episode, hosts Karen Farmer and Craig Silva chat with comedian, actor, and debut author Adrian Bliss. Adrian shares his journey from creating online comedy sketches to writing The Greatest Nobodies of History, which explores humorous and mostly factual stories of overlooked historical figures, such as Leonardo da Vinci’s ferret and Henry VIII’s Groom of the Stool. Adrian reflects on the shift from immediate online feedback to the publishing process and discusses creating an audiobook, collaborating with voice actors, and transitioning from short-form content to long-form storytelling. Plus, he shares his love for history, photography, and his favorite historical tidbits.
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About Adrian:Adrian Bliss is a British comedian, writer, and filmmaker known for his quirky and imaginative humor, often shared through viral sketches on social media. He gained popularity with his humorous historical and literary videos, blending absurdity with a touch of educational satire.
Get Adrian's new book: The Greatest Nobodies of History
Books discussed on today’s episode:
William by Mason CoileImmaculate Conception by Ling Ling HuangThe River of Doubt by Candice Millard -
In this episode, Philomena Polefrone, PhD discusses her role in advocating for intellectual freedom through the ABA. The conversation touches on book bans, censorship, and the role of bookstores as spaces for activism. The discussion covers the history of book bans, grassroots organizing, and the legal challenges involved in defending diverse literature.
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About Philomena:Philomena Polefrone is the Advocacy Associate Manager at the American Booksellers Association, where she champions intellectual freedom and free expression. With a background in bookselling and a decade in academia, Philomena brings a unique perspective to her work, blending literature and activism. She leads initiatives like the Set Books Free Project, aimed at combating book bans and promoting access to diverse, often censored literature. Her passion for defending the right to read makes her a key advocate in the fight against censorship.
Books discussed on today’s episode:
Gender Queer by Maia KobabeAre You There God? It's Me, Margaret by Judy BlumeAnd Tango Makes Three by Justin Richardson & Peter ParnellThe 1619 Project by Caitlin Roper, Ilena Silverman & Jake SilversteinLast Night at the Telegraph Club by Malinda LoTemple Folk by Aaliyah BilalCatalina by Karla Cornejo Villavicencio -
On today’s episode of the Libro.fm Podcast, we dive into literacy for young readers with graphic novelist Huda Fahmy and children’s bookshop owner Anna Hersh. We dive into school reading lists, storytime at bookshops, building confidence, the process of turning graphic novels into audiobooks, and even a mischievous cat with a knack for escaping in baby strollers.
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About Huda Fahmy:Huda Fahmy grew up in Dearborn, Michigan, and has loved comics since she was a child. She taught English to middle and high schoolers for eight years before she started writing about her experiences as a visibly Muslim woman in America and was encouraged by her older sister to turn these stories into comics. Huda was a finalist for the National Book Award for her YA graphic novel, Huda F Cares?.
About Anna Hersh:Anna is the co-owner and animal care coordinator at Wild Rumpus Bookstore in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Before Wild Rumpus she worked with exotic animals in sanctuaries.
Books discussed on today’s episode:
Huda F Are You? by Huda FahmyHuda F Cares by Huda FahmyAs Long as the Lemon Trees Grow by Zoulfa KatouhNot Quite a Ghost by Anne UrsuRun by Blake CrouchEndgame by Frank Brady -
On today's episode of the Libro.fm Podcast, we chat with Mel Saavedra, the owner of Steamy Lit Bookstore and the driving force behind Steamy Lit Con. Mel discusses her deep passion for romance literature, the genre's growing popularity, and the importance of representation in romance novels. Mel also delves into her subscription service, the Steam Box, and her new podcast, Romance Unleashed. The episode concludes with a lightning round, Instagram story time, and, as always, some great book recommendations.
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About Mel:Mel Saavedra, founder of Steamy Lit, is a proud Latina, Navy Veteran, and dog mom. A passionate reader of steamy romance, her love for the genre deepened in 2020. Noticing the lack of representation for authors of color in romance, she created Steamy Lit to empower discussions around sexuality and self-love, and to provide a platform for underrepresented authors.
Books discussed on today’s episode:
Brittainy Cherry's 'Elemental series'The Design of Us by Sajni PatelI Want to Die but I Still Want to Eat Tteokbokki by Baek SeheeOld Wounds by Logan-Ashley KisnerThe Lost Bookshop by Evie WoodsThe Kingmaker by Kennedy Ryan -
In today's episode, we interview renowned horror author Stephen Graham Jones. We delve into his latest book, "I Was a Teenage Slasher," and explore his passion for the horror genre. Additionally, we discuss his journey from aspiring farmer to successful writer, and pick his brain for book and movie recommendations!
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About Stephen Graham Jones:Stephen Graham Jones is a prolific American horror author known for his unique blend of contemporary horror and Native American themes. Born in West Texas and a member of the Blackfeet Nation, Jones has written numerous acclaimed novels and short stories, including "The Only Good Indians" and "Mongrels." His work often explores themes of identity, cultural heritage, and the supernatural.
Read Stephen Graham Jones’s books:
I Was A Teenage SlasherMy Heart Is a ChainsawThe Only Good IndiansMongrelsBooks discussed on today's episode:
Please Stop Trying to Leave Me by Alana SaabMean Spirited by Nick RobertsInk Blood Sister Scribe by Emma TörzsThe Monkey’s Paw by W.W. Jacobs -
On today's episode of the Libro.fm Podcast, we chat with prolific and beloved audiobook narrator Natalie Naudus who shares her journey into the world of audiobooks. We discuss the challenges and rewards of the profession, including the process of bringing characters to life through voice. The episode provides an insider's look at the audiobook industry, and we discuss tips and tricks of the trade, how AI narration is disrupting the industry, her debut novel, and much more.
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About Natalie Naudus:Natalie Naudus is one of the most beloved audiobook narrators working today. She has won an Audie award and nine Earphones awards, and maintains a robust social media following. She lives with her family on a mountain in Virginia. Gay the Pray Away is her debut novel which was released in June 2024.
Read Natalie's book:
Gay the Pray AwayBooks discussed on today's episode:
Interesting Facts about Space by Emily AustinSucker by Daniel HornsbyGrey Dog by Elliott GishRing by Koji Suzuki -
On today's episode of the Libro.fm Podcast, we sit down with Christine Bollow, co-owner and events manager for the DC based, community-oriented Loyalty Bookstore. We discuss the importance of book events to communities, Christine’s previous career in audiobooks, how Loyalty raises up young authors and marginalized voices, and our least favorite household chores.
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Books discussed on today’s episode:Light From Uncommon Stars by Ryka Aokihttps://libro.fm/audiobooks/9781250824479-light-from-uncommon-stars
Hollow Kingdom by Kira Jane Buxtonhttps://libro.fm/audiobooks/9781549113482
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In this episode of the Libro.fm Podcast, we interview Kalima DeSuze, the owner of Cafe con Libros, an intersectional feminist bookstore and coffee shop in Brooklyn, New York. Kalima discusses the challenges of running a bookstore, the importance of community support, and the decision-making process behind stocking books. She also talks about the power of book clubs as spaces for discussion and connection, and the role of audiobooks in making reading more accessible.
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Books discussed on today’s episode:
The Silence of the Girls by Pat Barker -
On today's episode of the Libro.fm Podcast, we speak with Mairi Oliver, a bookseller and owner at Lighthouse Bookshop, a radical bookshop in Edinburgh, Scotland. We discuss the shop's mission as an unapologetically activist radical bookshop and its commitment to promoting diverse voices and fighting for social justice. We also talk about the shop’s Pay It Forward program and the importance of accessibility in the book world.
Photo credit: Rethink Retail
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Books discussed on today’s episode:Namesake: Essays on a Warrior Woman by N.S. Nuseibeh
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On today's episode of the Libro.fm Podcast, we sit down with NYT Bestselling author Claire Lombardo. We discuss her new book, Same As It Ever Was, as well as her previous novel, The Most Fun We Ever Had. We dive into her love for writing about family dynamics and the process of crafting realistic dialogue. She also shares what it’s like to be a bookseller at Prairie Lights Books and offers book recommendations.
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About Claire Lombardo:Claire Lombardo's debut novel, The Most Fun We Ever Had, was an instant New York Times bestseller and has been translated or is forthcoming in over a dozen languages. Her second novel, Same As It Ever Was, releases in June 2024. Her short fiction has appeared in, among others, Playboy, Barrelhouse Magazine, Little Fiction, and Longform.
Read Claire’s books:
Same As It Ever WasThe Most Fun We Ever HadBooks discussed on today's episode:
The Berry Pickers by Amanda PetersThe Guncle Abroad by Steven RowleyThe Sentence by Louise ErdrichFellowship Point by Alice Elliott DarkAmerican Mermaid by Julia Langbein The Shining by Stephen KingThings Have Gotten Worse Since We Last Spoke And Other Misfortunes Hardcover by Eric LaRocca -
In the final episode of our first-ever Libro.fm Podcast Extravaganza, we interview author Steven Rowley. We discuss "The Guncle" and its sequel, themes of grief and humor in his books, his experience narrating his own audiobooks, and more. The episode concludes with the hosts discussing plans for Independent Bookstore Day.
Photo credit: Afonso Salcedo
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About Steven Rowley:Steven Rowley is the New York Times bestselling author of Lily and the Octopus, a Washington Post Notable Book of 2016, The Editor, named by NPR as one of the Best Books of 2019, The Guncle, a Goodreads Choice Awards finalist for 2021 Novel of the Year and winner of the 22nd Thurber Prize for American Humor, and The Celebrants, a TODAY Show Read With Jenna Book Club pick. His fiction has been published in twenty languages. All of his books are in development for feature film or television adaptation.
Read Steven’s books:
The GuncleThe Guncle AbroadThe CelebrantsLily and the OctopusThe EditorBooks discussed on today's episode:Weetzie Bat by Francesca Block
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In this episode of the Libro.fm Podcast Extravaganza, Craig and Karen interview Dr. Darcie Little Badger, author of "Elatsoe" and the prequel "Sheine Lende." Dr. Little Badger discusses her background as an oceanographer and her transition to full-time writing, the influence of her family on her work, and indigenous futurism.
Photo: Bekah M. Photography
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About Dr. Darcie Little Badger:Darcie Little Badger is a Lipan Apache writer with a PhD in oceanography. Her critically acclaimed debut novel, Elatsoe, was featured in Time Magazine as one of the best 100 fantasy books of all time. Elatsoe also won the Locus award for Best First Novel and is a Nebula, Ignyte, and Lodestar finalist. Her second fantasy novel, A Snake Falls to Earth, received a Nebula Award, an Ignyte Award, and a Newbery Honor and is on the National Book Awards longlist. Her third book, Sheine Lende, is the prequel to Elatsoe and will be published in 2024.
Read Darcie’s books:
ElatsoeSheine LendeA Snake Falls to EarthBooks discussed on today's episode:
Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn WardThe Grip of It by Jac JemcJames by Percival Everett -
On today’s episode, we sat down with Pulitzer Prize-winning author of ‘Less,’ Andrew Sean Greer. We discuss how he approached writing the sequel ‘Less is Lost’, book recommendations, his favorite burrito in San Francisco, and what it's like to be a crossword clue and question on Jeopardy.
Photo credit: Kaliel Roberts
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About Andrew Sean Greer:Andrew Sean Greer is the author of seven works of fiction, including the bestsellers The Confessions of Max Tivoli and Less. Greer has taught at a number of universities, including Stanford and the Iowa Writers Workshop, been a TODAY show pick, a New York Public Library Cullman Center Fellow, a judge for the National Book Award, and a winner of the California Book Award and the New York Public Library Young Lions Award. He is the recipient of a NEA grant, a Guggenheim Fellowship, and the 2018 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction.
Read Andrew's books:
Less is LostLessThe Impossible Lives of Greta WellsThe Story of a MarriageBooks discussed on today's episode:
The Sisters Brothers by Patrick deWittThe Wishing Game by Meg ShafferFunny Story by Emily Henry -
In this episode, we interview author Hanif Abdurraqib about his new book, "There's Always This Year: On Basketball and Ascension," his writing process, and the themes of aging and mortality in his book. We also discuss his upcoming tour and the importance of place and community in his work, as well as his favorite style of french fry.
Photo: Kate Sweeney (https://www.katesweeneyphotography.com)
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About Hanif Abdurraqib:Hanif Abdurraqib is a poet, essayist, and cultural critic from Columbus, Ohio, and the recipient of a MacArthur Foundation “Genius” grant. His most recent book, A Little Devil in America, was the winner of the Carnegie Medal and the Gordon Burns Prize and a finalist for the National Book Award. His first collection of essays, They Can’t Kill Us Until They Kill Us, was named one of the books of the year by NPR, Esquire, BuzzFeed, O: The Oprah Magazine, Pitchfork, and Chicago Tribune, among others.
Read Hanif’s books:
There's Always This YearThey Can't Kill Us Until They Kill UsA Fortune For Your DisasterA Little Devil in AmericaBooks discussed on today's episode:
The Apology by Jimin HanThe Men Can't Be Saved by Ben PurkertWandering Stars by Tommy Orange -
Join Craig and Karen for the first ever Libro.fm Podcast Extravaganza, a week-long celebration of authors, narrators, booksellers, and more leading up to Independent Bookstore Day on Saturday April 27th, 2024! Stay tuned for conversations with authors Hanif Abdurraqib, Andrew Sean Greer, Darcie Little Badger, and Steven Rowley. Libro.fm also has a huge sale and Golden Ticket Giveaway this week—head over to https://libro.fm/ibd for more details.
Use promo code: SWITCH when signing up for a new Libro.fm membership to get 2 extra free credits to use on any audiobooks.
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In this episode of the Libro.fm Podcast, we sat down with S.A. Cosby, bestselling author of All the Sinners Bleed and Razorblade Tears. We discussed his background and inspiration for becoming a writer, as well as his experiences with growing up in the South and writing a middle-grade book with Questlove.
Photo credit: From the author @leoking8473
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About S.A. Cosby:S. A. Cosby is an Anthony Award-winning writer from Southeastern Virginia. He is the author of the New York Times bestseller Razorblade Tears & Blacktop Wasteland, which won the Los Angeles Times Book Prize, was a New York Times Notable Book, and was named a best book of the year by NPR, The Guardian, andLibrary Journal, among others. When not writing, he is an avid hiker and chess player.
Read S.A. Cosby’s books:
Razorblade TearsAll the Sinners Bleed My Darkest Prayer Blacktop WastelandThe Rhythm of TimeBooks discussed on today's episode:Ozark DogsEverybody KnowsBeware the WomanLowdown RoadShe’s Not SorrySociopath: A Memoir
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In this episode of the Libro.fm Podcast, we sat down in person with Casey McQuiston, bestselling author of Red, White, and Royal Blue, One Last Stop, and I Kissed Shara Wheeler. We discussed audiobooks, their writing process, their upcoming novel ‘The Pairing,’ and what it was like to work at Cold Stone Creamery and sing whenever they got tipped.
Photo credit: Sylvia Rosokoff
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About Casey McQuiston:Casey lives at the intersection of fun, escapist romantic adventure and smart-mouthed characters with bad manners and big hearts. They were born and raised in the Deep South, which taught them how to love a good story and a great biscuit, and now lives and works in New York City with their dog, Pepper.
Read Casey’s books:
One Last StopI Kissed Shara Wheeler The Pairing Red, White & Royal BlueBooks discussed on today's episode:Emily Wilde's Encyclopaedia of FaeriesEmily Wilde’s Map of the Otherlands*The Prospects
The Most Fun We Ever HadThey Can't Kill Us Until They Kill Us - Show more
