Book Riot - The Podcast: More of Our Most Anticipated Books of 2025

Release Date: January 7, 2025

In the latest episode of Book Riot's Jeff O'Neill and Rebecca Schinsky discuss the latest news in the world of books and reading, titled "More of Our Most Anticipated Books of 2025," the hosts delve deep into their upcoming literary favorites for the year ahead. This episode features a special guest, Jason Blitman from the Gays Reading Podcast, who brings a fresh perspective to the conversation. The trio navigates through a diverse array of genres, highlighting both mainstream and under-the-radar releases, while infusing the discussion with humor and personal anecdotes.

Introduction of Guest: Jason Blitman

The episode kicks off with a lighthearted interaction between Jeff, Rebecca, and guest Jason Blitman. They engage in playful banter about Jeff's impeccably made bed, setting a relaxed and engaging tone for the discussion. Jason reveals his journey into the world of podcasting and reading, sharing intimate details about his late start as a reader and his passion for amplifying LGBTQIA+ voices in literature.

Main Discussion: Anticipated Books for 2025

The core of the episode revolves around the hosts and Jason sharing their top anticipated books for 2025. Each participant presents a curated list, providing insightful descriptions and personal reasons for their excitement.

Jason Blitman's Picks

1. "Northern Boy" by Iqbal Hussein

   • Release Date: January 28, 2025 (US), already available in the UK
   • Description: Described as "Billy Elliot meets Bollywood," this novel follows Rafi Aziz, a northern boy with dreams of stardom. The joyful and defiant story is set against a vibrant backdrop reminiscent of musical theater's exuberance.
   • Notable Quote: "The cover is just joy. It is so joyful." (10:16)

2. "The Lamb" by Lucy Rose

   • Release Date: February 4, 2025
   • Description: A Gothic coming-of-age tale that explores the complex emotions between mother and daughter. This contemporary queer folktale is perfect for fans of Angela Carter and Margaret Atwood.
   • Notable Quote: "It looks like a raw lamb chop slab of meat." (16:23)

3. "Lilac People" by Milo Todd

   • Release Date: April 29, 2025
   • Description: A debut novel set in the Bronx, it narrates the struggles of young people living on the edge of their patience and desires. Inspired by personal loss, the story delves into themes of migration and friendship.
   • Notable Quote: "An In Memoriam, a moving and deeply humane story." (27:03)

4. "Hot Girls with Balls" by Dwin

   • Release Date: July 1, 2025
   • Description: A satire centered around two star indoor volleyball players navigating their off-court romance amidst team rivalries. The book promises a blend of outrageous humor and serious undertones.
   • Notable Quote: "No one could think straight because everyone was actually gay." (33:13)

Rebecca Schinsky's Picks

1. "Actress of a Certain Age: My 20-Year Trail to Overnight Success" by Jeff Hiller

   • Release Date: June 2025
   • Description: A collection of autobiographical essays by comedian and actor Jeff Hiller, exploring his journey from a social worker to an acclaimed actor. The memoir delves into growing up gay in Texas during the 1980s.
   • Notable Quote: "I cannot wait to listen to Jeff Hiller tell me about his life." (11:16)

2. "Friends, Bonds that Change Us and the World" by Priya Vulci

   • Release Date: April 8, 2025
   • Description: An exploration of the essence of friendships, this book combines Western philosophy with contemporary insights to discuss how to create and maintain meaningful relationships in today's fast-paced world.
   • Notable Quote: "My friendships are so central and so important in my life." (18:01)

3. "Sucker Punch" by Sachi Kuhl

   • Release Date: March 4, 2025
   • Description: A poignant collection of essays addressing personal struggles such as marriage breakdowns and health crises, all interwoven with Kuhl's sharp wit and humor.
   • Notable Quote: "These are essays about all of those things which are hard and difficult." (34:10)

4. "Flashlight" by Susan Choi

   • Release Date: June 3, 2025
   • Description: Tracing a father's disappearance across time and memory, this novel offers a deep dive into messy family dynamics and the symbolic significance of a flashlight in a pivotal childhood event.
   • Notable Quote: "Where does the father go? What's up? What does the flashlight even mean?" (29:22)

Jeff O'Neill's Picks

1. "On Air: The Triumph and Tumult of NPR" by Steve Oni

   • Release Date: March 11, 2025
   • Description: A comprehensive history of NPR, exploring its rise, challenges, and impact on public media. Jeff expresses his enthusiasm for the deep dive into the behind-the-scenes workings of public radio.
   • Notable Quote: "I like a business history story." (11:05)

2. "Raising Hair" by CLO Dalton

   • Release Date: TBD
   • Description: A tender memoir about adopting and raising a rabbit, exploring themes of impermanence and the unique challenges of caring for such a pet.
   • Notable Quote: "Each time the hair leaves, she knows she may never see it again." (24:47)

3. "Defy the Power of No in a World that Demands Yes" by Sunita Saw

   • Release Date: January 14, 2025
   • Description: A personal development book outlining five stages of defiance, encouraging readers to assert their boundaries in various aspects of life.
   • Notable Quote: "Make sure that the animal-loving kids who live in your house don't find out that this is an option for addressing your personal issues." (25:50)

4. "How You Lose the Time War" by Amal El Mohtar

   • Release Date: March 4, 2025
   • Description: Amal El Mohtar’s solo debut offering a poetic and experimental take on time travel and personal connections, marking a standout entry in the fantasy genre.
   • Notable Quote: "It's an experimental piece, which I'm also looking forward to." (37:16)

Honorable Mentions

Both Jason and Rebecca share additional titles that didn't make their top lists but are still worth noting:

• Sarah Slager's "Succession meets Megan Abbott": A suspense thriller about a powerful family's dramatic downfall.
• Charlotte Wood's "Stonyard Devotional": Shortlisted for the Booker Prize 2024, exploring complex narratives across nations.
• Adam Ross's "Play World": A poignant novel addressing the dark realities of child acting and abuse.
• Emma Petit’s "Tilt": Set in Portland, Oregon, this novel captures a pregnant woman's existential journey amidst an earthquake.

Guest Promotions and Upcoming Episodes

Jason Blitman promotes his upcoming guests on the Gays Reading Podcast, including Kate Fagan, nnedi okorafor, and Daniel Black, each bringing unique narratives and perspectives to the literary world. Jeff and Rebecca reciprocate by highlighting their own shows and encouraging listeners to engage with their various platforms, such as their Patreon and Substack newsletter.

Humorous Interactions and Closing Remarks

Throughout the episode, the hosts and Jason engage in humorous exchanges, discussing everything from kidney stones to the intricacies of book covers. These light moments add a personal touch, making the podcast both informative and entertaining.

Notable Quote: Jeff humorously remarks, "I need his laugh as a ringtone. Can I sign up for that somewhere?" when discussing Jeff Hiller's upcoming memoir. (13:17)

Conclusion

This episode of Book Riot - The Podcast offers a comprehensive look at the most anticipated literary works of 2025. Through engaging discussions, personal anecdotes, and thoughtful insights, Jeff, Rebecca, and Jason provide listeners with a curated roadmap of books to watch out for in the coming year. Whether you're a fan of memoirs, thrillers, historical fiction, or personal development, this episode promises something for every avid reader.

For more details on the books discussed and to stay updated with future episodes, visit BookRiot.com and tune into their various platforms.