Professional Book Nerds-logo

Professional Book Nerds

Arts & Culture Podcasts

We're not just book nerds. We're professional book nerds! We are staff librarians who work at OverDrive, the leading app for eBooks and audiobooks from public libraries and schools. It's our job to discuss books all day long so we thought, "Why not share the conversation!" Hear about the best books we've read, get recommendations, and learn about the hottest books coming out that we can't wait to dive into. Titles discussed are available to borrow through public libraries. Get started reading at overdrive.com and subscribe to our podcast today!

Location:

United States

Description:

We're not just book nerds. We're professional book nerds! We are staff librarians who work at OverDrive, the leading app for eBooks and audiobooks from public libraries and schools. It's our job to discuss books all day long so we thought, "Why not share the conversation!" Hear about the best books we've read, get recommendations, and learn about the hottest books coming out that we can't wait to dive into. Titles discussed are available to borrow through public libraries. Get started reading at overdrive.com and subscribe to our podcast today!

Language:

English

Contact:

216-573-6886 ext. 24


Episodes
Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Introducing The Film Library

7/18/2024
Emma and Joe recommend The Film Library podcast! Follow the show: The Film Library: a Kanopy Podcast. Watch season 1 here. Dive into the rich world of cinema with The Film Library, a brand-new podcast presented by Kanopy, the free streaming service available through participating public and academic libraries. Join hosts Alonso Duralde and Daniel Thompson as they explore the diverse universe of filmmaking. With over 30,000 films and TV shows available at your fingertips, Kanopy offers a haven for film lovers. From swoon-worthy rom-coms to eye-opening documentaries, without the hassle of subscription fees or ads. Each episode features a unique guest from various corners of the industry offering listeners an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the art and craft of film. Whether you're a seasoned cinephile or just starting your film journey, The Film Library provides an insightful, engaging, and educational experience. Tune in to discover hidden gems and hear the stories behind the camera, all accessible with your library card at http://www.kanopy.com/. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Duration:00:04:08

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Escape to Middletide with Sarah Crouch

7/15/2024
Emma welcomes debut author Sarah Crouch to the podcast to discuss her book, Middletide! They chat about the book, the writing process, how Sarah found her agent, 90s nostalgia, inspiration from Harlan Coben and Frieda McFadden, the value of libraries, and escapism in reading. Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today's episode on OverDrive.com or in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Duration:00:45:27

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Buckaroo Banter: Chuck Tingle Talks BURY YOUR GAYS

7/8/2024
Joe is joined by the mysterious, masked Chuck Tingle to talk about his new, traditionally published book BURY YOUR GAYS (out July 9 from Tor Nightfire). Chuck and Joe talk about absurdist art balanced with sincerity, the impact and meaning of AI on art, how Chuck's faceless persona effects his work, and Chuck's thoughts around separating the art from the artist. Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. We’ve got merch! Check out our two shirts in The OverDrive Shop (all profits are donated to the ALA Literacy Clearinghouse). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Duration:01:00:50

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

The Hottest Summer Book Releases - July 2024 Book Picks

6/27/2024
Get ready to dive into a treasure trove of captivating stories as we unveil the most anticipated book releases of July 2024! Join Emma and Joe on a thrilling journey through the pages of upcoming novels, where every plot twist and character arc awaits discovery. Titles mentioned in this episode: July Author Interviews: Bury Your Gays by Chuck Tingle Loud by Drew Afualo Emma’s Titles: The Grandest Game by Jennifer Lynn Barnes Supernatural: An Official Spooky Picture Book by Micol Ostow, illustrated by Christian Cornia Not Another Love Song by Julie Soto The Wedding People by Alison Espach Beneath These Cursed Stars by Lexi Ryan Heads Will Roll by Josh Winning Dishonestly Yours by Krista Ritchie & Becca Ritchie The Last One by Rachel Howzell Hall * at the time of recording, the publication date had not yet been changed. This title now releases later in 2024. Ladykiller by Katherine Wood Such Charming Liars by Karen M. McManus Joe’s Titles: Sharing Space by Cady Coleman Die Hot with a Vengeance by Sable Yong The Dallergut Dream Department Store by Miye Lee Youth Group by Jordan Morris, Bowen McCurdy A Darker Mischief by Derek Milman Cursed Boys and Broken Hearts by Adam Sass The Blonde Dies First by Joelle Wellington The Night of Baba Yaga by Akria Otani Like Mother, Like Daughter by Kimberly McCreight The Astrology House by Carinn Jade Need a refresher on what our most anticipated books of the year are? Listen here: PBN’s Most Anticipated Books of 2024 episode Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. We’ve got merch! Check out our two shirts in The OverDrive Shop (all profits are donated to the ALA Literacy Clearinghouse). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Duration:01:04:12

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Your Guide to Completing the Pro Book Nerds 2024 Reading Challenge

6/20/2024
On today's episode, Emma and Joe share some tips and tricks to completing your 2024 Pro Book Nerds Reading Challenge. They also discuss the prompts they've completed and what books they read. Finally, they offer some suggestions for, perhaps, some harder to complete prompts. Let us know, have you done your 2024 reading challenge yet? What's your progress? 2024 PBN Reading Challenge: A genre you don’t normally read The Secret Lives of Country Gentlemen by KJ Charles The Bearable Slant of Light by Lynnell Edwards The Anthropocene Reviewed by John Green A book with main characters that are a different age than you House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J Maas A book on your TBR longer than 1 year Who Could That Be at This Hour by Lemony Snicket Romancing Mister Bridgerton by Julia Quinn An audiobook (full cast or dramatized!) A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson House of Earth and Blood, Part 2 by Sarah J. Maas A book in translation A Magical Girl Retires by Park Seolyeon Reykjavik by Ragnar Jonasson Reread a childhood favorite Angus, Thongs and Full-Frontal Snogging by Louise Rennison Crank by Ellen Hopkins Book with dual POV Yours Truly by Abby Jimenez Read a duology Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo One Dark Window by Rachel Gillig A book with a one-word title Sheets by Brenna Thummler Tomie – Juno Ito A book from any bestseller list Rouge by Mona Awad Let Us Descend by Jesmyn Ward Think Twice by Harlan Coben A book your first heard about on PBN Diavola by Jennifer Thorne Garlic and the Witch by Bree Paulsen A book out of season So Thirsty by Rachel Harrison (takes place in Winter) This Summer Will Be Different by Carley Fortune (Summer) Check out Joe's conversation with Daniel Handler aka Lemony Snicket here. Listen to Emma's chat with Harlan Coben here. Want to hear more about seasonal reading, listen to our Seasons of Books episode here. Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today's episode on OverDrive.com or in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Duration:00:53:37

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Behind the Scares: A Conversation with Paul Tremblay on Horror Movie

6/17/2024
Join Joe for a dive into the world of horror with acclaimed author Paul Tremblay as he unveils details of his new book Horror Movie (out June 11 from HarperCollins). Paul shares his inspirations, challenges, and thrills of crafting a story that carries you through time and just wondering how impacted you'll be by that cursed film. Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby and our library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. We’ve got merch! Check out our two shirts in The OverDrive Shop (all profits are donated to the ALA Literacy Clearinghouse). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Duration:00:32:36

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Drawn In: Graphic Memoirs (and Biographies) You Can't Put Down

6/13/2024
Marissa joins Joe today to talk about graphic memoirs, biographies and novels inspired by life events. They talk about the importance of sharing your story, how we can find community and a sense of self, and learn so much by listening to the stories of others. Come for the recommendations, stay for a full aside on The Salem Witch Trials. Article mentioned in our Salem Witch Trials aside: From New England Law Boston - The True Legal Horror Story of the Salem Witch Trials Titles mentioned in this episode: Marissa’s Titles: Be Prepared by Vera Brosgol Ducks by Kate Beaton Messy Roots by Laura Gao The Adventures of Alexander Von Humboldt by Andrea Wulf and Illustrated by Lillian Melcher The Invention of Nature by Andrea Wulf Cheeky by Ariella Elovic Joe’s Titles: Talking to Strangers by Marianne Boucher An Outbreak of Witchcraft by Debroah Noyes Gender Queer by Maia Kobabe Brave Face by Shawn David Hutchinson Dancing at the Pity Party by Tyler Feder Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. We’ve got merch! Check out our two shirts in The OverDrive Shop (all profits are donated to the ALA Literacy Clearinghouse). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Duration:00:54:21

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Reading From the Heart With Katherine Center

6/10/2024
On today's episode, Emma is joined by NYT bestselling author, Katherine Center, to chat about her newest book, The Rom-Commers. They also discuss the craft of writing a romance novel, reading from your heart, the impact of libraries, line dancing and so much more. Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today's episode on OverDrive.com or in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Duration:00:53:36

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Books with Bite: A New Era of Vampire Reads

6/6/2024
Emma and Joe are joined by Andrea and Meghan to discuss a new era of vampire reads! We've seen a huge increase in books featuring vampires in the last few years and wanted to share some recent books and upcoming releases we're most excited about to usher in a new era. Emma’s Picks: So Thirsty by Rachel Harrison We Love the Nightlife by Rachel Koller Croft To You Shall All Flesh Come by Lumen Reese Immortal Pleasures by V. Castro Lucy Undying by Kiersten White Joe’s Picks: This Ravenous Fate by Hayley Dennings Silver Under Nightfall by Rin Chupeco and book 2 Court of Wanderers came out in April The God of Endings by Jacqueline Holland My Roommate is a Vampire by Jenna Levine The Southern Book Club’s Guide to Slaying Vampires by Grady Hendrix Andrea’s Picks: The Scarlet Veil #2 by Shelby Mahurin Book 1: The Scarlet Veil The Madness by Dawn Kurtagich Garlic and the Vampire by Bree Paulsen Book 2: Garlic and the Witch by Bree Paulsen The Songbird & The Heart of Stone by Carissa Broadbent Book 1: The Serpent & the Wings of Night Book 2: The Ashes & the Star-Cursed King Meghan’s Picks: A Werewolf’s Guide to Seducing a Vampire by Sarah Hawley Sign of the Slayer by Sharina Harris Bloodline by Jenn Alexander Filthy Rich Vampire by Geneva Lee Vampires Never Say Die by Gloria Duke Other books and things mentioned: Kathy Reichs new book, Fire and Bones Dawn Kurtagich interview and Dawn’s return to the podcast Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today's episode on OverDrive.com or in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Duration:01:00:05

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Live Interview with Daniel Handler, aka Lemony Snicket

6/3/2024
In this episode, Joe sits down for a live conversation with Daniel Handler AKA Lemony Snicket, for the release of his memoir And Then? And Then? What Else?, hosted at Cuyahoga County Public Library! Joe and Daniel talk about Tim Curry, sharing your personal life publicly, and what it's like being Lemony Snicket. Special thanks to Cuyahoga County Public Library for hosting this incredible event. The live event was hosted and recorded on Thursday, May 23, 2024 at the Parma-Snow Library Branch to a sold-out auditorium. Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. We’ve got merch! Check out our two shirts in The OverDrive Shop (all profits are donated to the ALA Literacy Clearinghouse). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Duration:01:05:06

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

June 2024 Book Picks

5/30/2024
Emma and Joe's monthly round-up of books is back with June picks! Grab a beverage and get ready for a long-list of summer-y picks! For Emma and Joe that usually means mystery and romance, but there's also a dash of cooking, graphic novels, YA, and family sagas. Author Interviews: The Rom-Commers by Katherine Center Horror Movie by Paul Tremblay Joe’s Picks: Middle of the Night by Riley Sager Willie, Waylon, and the Boys by Brian Fairbanks Birds Aren’t Real by Peter McIndoe, Connor Gaydos Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books by Kirsten Miller The Salad Lab by Darlene Schrijver (TikTok Tie In) Annie LeBlanc is Not Dead Yet by Molly Morris Hombrecito by Santiago Jose Sanchez One Killer Problem by Justine Pucella Winans Now, Conjurers by Freddie Kolsch Brownstone by Samuel Teer One of our Kind by Nicola Yoon Emma’s Picks: Swan Song by Elin Hilderbrand Leather & Lark by Brynne Weaver A Novel Love Story by Ashely Poston A Talent for Murder by Peter Swanson Blood in the Cut by Alejandro Nodarse Just Some Stupid Love Story by Katelyn Doyle Such a Bad Influence by Olivia Muenter A Daughter of Fair Verona by Christina Dodd The Unwedding by Ally Condie A Love Like the Sun by Riss M. Neilson Need a refresher on what our most anticipated books of the year are? Listen here: PBN’s Most Anticipated Books of 2024 episode Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today's episode on OverDrive.com or in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. We’ve got merch! Check out our two shirts in The OverDrive Shop (all profits are donated to the ALA Literacy Clearinghouse). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Duration:00:55:13

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Live Interview with Harlan Coben, author of Think Twice

5/27/2024
On today's episode, Emma sits down for a live conversation with the #1 New York Times bestselling author, Harlan Coben, for the release of Think Twice. Hosted at Cuyahoga County Public Library, Emma and Harlan chat about the writing process, his plans for Myron, being the "twist guy," his Netflix adaptations, Stephen King, and Queen Camilla. Special thanks to Cuyahoga County Public Library for hosting this amazing event. The live event was recorded on Monday, May 20, 2024 at the Parma-Snow Library Branch to a sold-out auditorium of 400 fantastic readers. Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today's episode on OverDrive.com or in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Duration:00:54:30

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Cults: A Dive into Fiction and Nonfiction Reads

5/23/2024
Join us as we dive into the captivating world of cults! We're recommending both fiction and nonfiction titles that explore that mysterious and chilling allure... From gripping thrillers to eye-opening accounts, we've got recommendations that will keep you on the edge of your seat. We'll wax poetic on cult dynamics and discuss the enduring fascination with these enigmatic communities. Titles mentioned in this episode: Jill’s Titles: The Road to Jonestown by Jeff Guinn The Last Housewife by Ashley Winstead The Sullivanians by Alexander Stille The Centre by Ayesha Manazir Siddiqi Joe’s Titles: Member of the Family by Dianne Lake Those Who Prey by Jennifer Moffett The Project by Courtney Summers Sex Cult Nun by Faith Jones Emma’s Titles: The Girls by Emma Cline Say You’re Sorry by Karen Rose The Lightness by Emily Temple Heartbreaker by Claudia Dey Meredith’s Titles: Scarred: The True Story of How I Escaped NXIVM, the Cult That Bound My Life by Sarah Edmondson Fierce Little Thing by Miranda Beverly-Whittmore A Billion Years by Mike Rinder Don’t Call It a Cult by Sarah Berman Cults & Exteme Belief - A&E (Kanopy) Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. We’ve got merch! Check out our two shirts in The OverDrive Shop (all profits are donated to the ALA Literacy Clearinghouse). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Duration:00:53:23

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

The House That Gothic Reads Built

5/16/2024
Emma and Joe welcome back Claire and Kristin to chat about modern gothic reads. They discuss the characteristics they enjoy in a modern gothic and share a wide variety of books to get your creepy, vibey, gothic fix! Emma’s Picks: The Clinic by Cate Quinn A Place for Vanishing by Ann Fraistat The Heiress by Rachel Hawkins One Dark Window by Rachel Gillig (Sheperd King series) Claire’s Picks: Diavola by Jennifer Thorne The Haunting of Velkwood by Gwendolyn Kiste A Botanical Daughter by Noah Medlock Thirst by Marina Yuszczuk Kristin’s Picks: Bluebeard’s Castle by Anna Biller The Black Tree Atop the Hill by Karla Yvette House of Hunger by Alexis Henderson When the Reckoning Comes by LaTanya McQueen Joe’s Picks: Vampires of el Norte by Isabel Canas House of Cotton by Monica Brashears Catherine House by Elisabeth Thomas House of Hollow by Krystal Sutherland Check out our Botanical Books episode from 2023 here. Other books mentioned in this episode included The Hacienda by Isabel Canas, The Only One Left by Riley Sager, and Home Before Dark by Riley Sager. Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today's episode on OverDrive.com or in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Duration:01:06:56

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Talking Crushed Red Cups and Murders at Parties with Cindy R.X. He

5/13/2024
The mean girl gets murdered in this one (not a spoiler)! Dive into the mind of Cindy RX He as she delves deep into her debut title, Perfect Little Monsters. Find out why it's hard to trick thriller readers with your twists, what makes the queen bee so compelling, and where Cindy's inspiration came from for this story. Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. We’ve got merch! Check out our two shirts in The OverDrive Shop (all profits are donated to the ALA Literacy Clearinghouse). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Duration:00:35:45

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Beyond the Canon: Redefining and Updating the Classics!

5/9/2024
Join Joe and Emma on this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast as they dive deep into the ever-evolving landscape of the literary canon. They shine a spotlight on contemporary books that challenge traditional notions of what it means to be considered "canonical" and explore the complexities of defining literary greatness. Emma and Joe offer up some modern works and their potential to reshape our understanding of literature and join a new canon. From diverse voices to innovative storytelling techniques, they celebrate the richness and diversity of contemporary literature that deserves a place in the canon. Titles mentioned in this episode: Emma’s Titles: Atonement by Ian McEwan The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay by Michael Chabon A Visit from the Goon Squad by Jennifer Egan The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn Joe’s Titles: The Brief Wondrous life of Oscar Wao by Junot Diaz Fun Home by Alison Bechdel The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead Life of Pi by Yann Martel Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn Ward A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara Past episodes mentioned in this episode: The Hunger Games Retrospective Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Ep. #135 - Colson Whitehead, 2017 Pulitzer Prize winning author of The Underground Railroad Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. We’ve got merch! Check out our two shirts in The OverDrive Shop (all profits are donated to the ALA Literacy Clearinghouse). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Duration:00:58:42

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

Dreaming Big with Carley Fortune

5/6/2024
Emma is thrilled to welcome Carley Fortune to talk about her new book, This Summer Will Be Different. In this fun chat, you'll also hear about Carley's life-changing writing advice from Taylor Jenkins Reid, writing about different kinds of family dynamics and dreamy male leads, Anne of Green Gables, long-distance best friends, the power of libraries, and how romance books can and do save and change lives. Books mentioned in this episode: This Summer Will Be Different by Carley Fortune Every Summer After by Carley Fortune Meet Me At the Lake by Carley Fortune Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today's episode on OverDrive.com or in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. We’ve got merch! Check out our two shirts in The OverDrive Shop (all profits are donated to the ALA Literacy Clearinghouse). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Duration:00:55:00

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

All That and a Bag of Chips: 1990s Book Recs

5/2/2024
Emma is joined by Sydney and Jane to discuss 1990s nostalgia, essential books of the 90s, and share a list of fresh books set in their favorite decade! This episode is packed full of book recommendations and waxing poetic about malls, layered tank tops, time travel, and revisiting our favorite decade from a 2024 perspective. Emma’s Picks: Carrie Soto Is Back by Taylor Jenkins Reid This Time Tomorrow by Emma Straub The Mall by Megan McCafferty Jane’s Picks: How to Build a Girl - Caitlin Moran Angus, Thongs, and Full Frontal Snogging by Louise Rennison Attachments by Rainbow Rowell I Have Some Questions for You by Rebecca Makkai Sydney’s Picks: The Virgin Suicides by Jeffrey Eugenides Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott The Crow Road by Iain Banks If you want to listen to our conversation with Rainbow Rowell, you can listen here. If you want to listen to the conversation with Emma Straub, that's here. If you're a librarian and you're looking to shop more 90s reads in OverDrive Marketplace, check out As If: Modern Books Featuring 80s and 90s Nostalgia, Books of the 90s, and Smells Like Teen Spirit. Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today's episode on OverDrive.com or in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. We’ve got merch! Check out our two shirts in The OverDrive Shop (all profits are donated to the ALA Literacy Clearinghouse). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Duration:00:58:58

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

May 2024 Book Picks

4/25/2024
It's that magical time again - Joe and Emma are sharing the books being released this May (2024) that they're most looking forward to. The Nerds talk about the eclipse, catch up, and have a silly, goofy time! Titles mentioned in this episode: Author Interviews for May: This Summer Will Be Different by Carley Fortune Perfect Little Monsters by Cindy RX He Think Twice by Harlan Coben And Then? And Then? What Else? by Daniel Handler Emma’s Titles: You Never Know by Tom Selleck The Paradise Problem by Christina Lauren The Last Murder at the End of the World by Stuart Turton Mistakes We Never Made by Hannah Brown When Among Crows by Veronica Roth Very Bad Company by Emma Rosenblum Evocation by S.T. Gibson When We Were Silent by Fiona McPhillips The Ballad of Darcy and Russell by Morgan Matson Swiped by L.M. Chilton Joe’s Titles: Cunning Folk by Tabitha Stanmore Keepers of the Stones and Stars by Michael Barakiva The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley How to Become the Dark Lord and Die Trying by Django Wexler In Our Stars by Jack Campbell Have You Seen This Girl by Nita Tyndall Ghostroots by ‘Pemi Aguda If Something Happens to Me by Alex Finlay The Guncle Abroad by Steven Rowley Joe Nuthin’s Guide to Life by Helen Fisher Need a refresher on what our most anticipated books of the year are? Listen here: PBN’s Most Anticipated Books of 2024 episode Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. We’ve got merch! Check out our two shirts in The OverDrive Shop (all profits are donated to the ALA Literacy Clearinghouse). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Duration:00:45:49

Ask host to enable sharing for playback control

PBN's Hyper-Specific Reading Moods & Recommendations

4/18/2024
Emma and Joe talk about some VERY specific reading moods and offer recommendations to match! Emma’s moods & book picks: A romance book that’s 10/10 and has Easter eggs a plenty Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez Part of Your World by Abby Jimenez Yours Truly by Abby Jimenez A cozy fantasy book that's equal parts wholesome and magical Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree The Honey Witch by Sydney J. Shields The Spellshop by Sarah Beth Durst A memoir written by the cast member of a 2000s mega-sensation tv show Dinner for Vampires by Bethany Joy Lenz The Third Gilmore Girl by Kelly Bishop Tell Me Everything by Minka Kelly The Next Chapter by Jana Kramer A book with a couple that are murders/serial killers/contract killers My Lovely Wife by Samantha Downing Butcher & Blackbird by Brynne Weaver Leather & Lark by Brynne Weaver ** They Never Learn by Layne Fargo Joe’s moods & book picks: A secluded cabin in the woods or small town were something creepy is definitely going on The Long Weekend by Gilly Macmillan The Overnight Guest by Heather Gudenkauf The Cabin at the End of the World by Paul Tremblay Secluded Cabin Sleeps Six by Lisa Unger Just Like Home by Sarah Gailey Misery by Stephen King Books that feel like a hug/cozy vibes The Undetectables by Courtney Smyth Beasts of Extraordinary Circumstance by Ruth Emile Lang The People on Platform 5 by Clare Pooley Yinka, Where is Your Huzband? By Lizzie Damilola Blackburn Gentrification thrillers When No One is Watching by Alyssa Cole Shadowshaper by Daniel Jose Older The Blade Between by Sam J. Miller Uh-oh, there’s a stalker With My Little Eye by Joshilyn Jackson Our Kind of Cruelty by Araminta Hall Watching You by Lisa Jewell The Good Girl by Mary Kubica Just One Look by Lindsay Cameron Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today's episode on OverDrive.com or in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Duration:01:00:27