Podcast Summary: "Bad On Paper"
Episode: Our Summer Backlist Reading
Release Date: May 14, 2025

Introduction to Backlist Books

In this episode of Bad On Paper, hosts Becca Freeman and Olivia Muenter delve into the world of backlist books, discussing their significance and sharing personal insights on their reading habits.

• Becca Freeman explains, "A backlist book is basically defined as a publisher's older books in their catalog that are still in print. So usually this is something that is over a year old" ([04:36]).

• Olivia Muenter adds, "There's something cozy about a book that, you know, you can just roll up and request it on Libby or wherever and it'll, it won't be as long of a wait" ([05:35]).

Frontlist vs. Backlist Reading Habits

The conversation shifts to the differences between frontlist (new releases) and backlist reading preferences.

• Becca admits, "My percentage of backlist is so low. Like I would say I'm reading 5% backlist, 95% front list" ([06:18]).

• Olivia counters with her own habits, "I don't read much Backlist. What about you?" ([06:14]).

Challenges of Incorporating Backlist Reads

Both hosts discuss the challenges and pressures associated with reading backlist titles, such as feeling the need to keep up with trends and maintaining opinions on popular books.

• Becca shares her struggle: "I feel a pressure to have an opinion on books that are coming out, to be able to recommend to people" ([06:18]).

• Olivia reflects on her evolving reading strategy, "I'm a mood reader... I kind of want a little bit of each one. And there's something about that as like an eldest daughter, like, you know, good student, that feels really wrong about that" ([10:43]).

Listener Voicemails: Backlist Book Recommendations

Becca and Olivia play voicemails from listeners, each recommending a backlist book. Highlights include:

1. Kate from Houston recommends "The Great Believers" by Rebecca Mackay, praising its emotional depth and portrayal of the AIDS crisis in 1980s Chicago ([21:09]).

2. Abby from Houston highlights "Country Club Murders" by Julie Mulhern, noting its engaging setting in the 70s and compelling family dynamics ([22:29]).

3. Gigi Collins suggests "The Cave Dwellers" by Christina McDowell for its satirical take on Washington's elite families ([22:29]).

4. Grace from Seattle recommends "Wrong Place, Wrong Time" by Gillian McAllister, a thriller involving time loops and a mother's desperate attempt to prevent her son's violent act ([22:29]).

5. Sarah from Connecticut introduces "Una Out of Order" by Margarita Montemore, a time-travel narrative exploring a woman's life through her birthdays ([52:46]).

Hosts' Personal Backlist Picks

Becca and Olivia share their own favorite backlist books they've read and those they plan to tackle this summer.

• Olivia discusses "Saint X" by Alessandra Torre and "Seawife" by Amity Gage, highlighting their unique narratives and personal impact ([13:27]).

• Becca mentions "Greenlights" by Matthew McConaughey and "Early Morning Riser" by Katherine Heine, expressing mixed feelings based on content and personal preferences ([27:03]).

Summer Reading Lists and Goals

The hosts outline their plans to create and adhere to summer backlist reading lists, aiming to balance new releases with timeless classics.

• Becca outlines her list, including "Happy All the Time" by Laurie Colwyn and "Giovanni's Room" by James Baldwin, emphasizing the importance of exploring literary classics ([40:41]).

• Olivia shares her intent to read "Parable of the Sower" by Octavia Butler and "Poisonwood Bible" by Barbara Kingsolver, planning to deepen her understanding of diverse literary voices ([52:55]).

Obsessions and Current Reads

Transitioning from books, the hosts discuss their current obsessions beyond reading.

• Olivia is enamored with long walks and birdwatching using the Merlin app, finding joy in identifying different bird species ([59:21]).

• Becca reveals her obsession with the musical "Happy Ending", praising its tender storytelling and exceptional staging. She recommends it highly and expresses excitement for Olivia to join her in experiencing it ([60:55]).

Final Book Recommendations

Both hosts provide additional book recommendations, emphasizing diversity in genres and themes.

• Olivia praises "She Used to be Nice" by Alexia Lofata for its multifaceted storytelling and emotional depth ([63:02]).

• Becca recommends "Audition" by Katie Kitamura, highlighting its exploration of performance both on and off the stage ([70:42]).

Conclusion and Community Engagement

Becca and Olivia encourage listeners to share their backlist reading lists through their Facebook and Geneva groups, fostering a community of book enthusiasts eager to explore beyond current bestsellers.

Notable Quotes:

• "I feel like one of our most frequent pieces of feedback is from library readers who want to follow our book club picks and then go to their library. And there's a 300 person wait, which I totally get that that's frustrating." — Becca Freeman ([04:36])

• "I feel like I get to experience different writing styles more. I get to, like, discover new authors." — Olivia Muenter ([10:43])

• "I am staying fresh. Staying fresh mentally." — Olivia Muenter ([12:51])

Upcoming Topics:

The episode wraps up with a teaser for upcoming discussions, including a potential backlist book club pick and more in-depth explorations of listener recommendations.

Connect with Hosts:

• Becca Freeman: Instagram | Newsletter
• Olivia Muenter: Instagram | Substack

Follow them on Facebook under Bad On Paper Podcast and join their Geneva group to engage with the community and share your own backlist favorites.