Book Riot - The Podcast: April 7, 2025 Episode Summary

In this engaging episode of Book Riot - The Podcast, hosts Jeff O’Neill and Rebecca Schinsky delve into a tapestry of current events in the literary world. Covering topics from prestigious book awards to contentious censorship battles, and shedding light on industry trends, the duo provides listeners with insightful commentary and thoughtful discussions.

1. National Book Critics Circle (NBCC) Awards Highlights

The episode opens with an in-depth analysis of the recently announced National Book Critics Circle Awards. Jeff expresses surprise and disappointment that a favored book titled My Friends by Hisham Matar did not clinch the Fiction Prize. He remarks, “I am surprised. I expect James to win all of these awards for which that book is available and eligible” (14:06). Rebecca concurs, highlighting the artistic nature of the NBCC and its tendency to recognize unconventional works. They commend the NBCC for including a First Novel Prize, appreciating its support for emerging authors: “The First Novel Prize is very good” (18:31).

However, both hosts critique the NBCC’s website for its lack of detailed information. Jeff laments, “You can’t click on anything. There’s no explanation” (19:02), emphasizing the need for greater transparency and accessibility regarding award details.

2. Censorship Cases on a Collision Course with the Supreme Court

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the escalating book censorship battles currently navigating the U.S. judicial system. Drawing parallels to historical cases like Ulysses and Tropic of Cancer, Jeff notes, “Just because there hasn’t been a case since you were in utero doesn’t mean these things are solved” (25:28). Rebecca expands on this by explaining the contemporary scope of censorship, which targets entire categories of ideas and identities rather than isolated works: “What you’re talking about is not just keeping ‘Green Eggs and Ham’ out of schools, but these whole collections” (27:40).

They highlight the upcoming Supreme Court case Mahmood vs. Taylor, which challenges the right of schools to provide LGBTQ+ materials without parental opt-out options. Jeff expresses concern over the potential implications: “This is going to be very interesting. She [Kelly] is not optimistic about the outcome” (23:31). Both hosts emphasize the importance of the documentary Band Together, slated for streaming on April 10, as a resource to understand and combat these censorship efforts. Rebecca encourages listeners to watch it, stating, “It will light a fire under you to make some phone calls and go to some meetings” (24:54).

3. Publishing Industry Trends: Consolidation and Collaboration

Jeff and Rebecca shift their focus to the publishing industry's consolidation trend, noting that Penguin Random House (PRH) reported an 8.5% sales increase in 2024, primarily driven by acquisitions rather than organic growth: “They acquired a bunch of places that also sold books” (35:05). They discuss the implications of such consolidations, questioning the sustainability and diversity of the publishing landscape.

A highlight of the episode is the discussion on James Patterson’s collaboration with YouTuber Mr. Beast. Rebecca raises critical questions about the efficacy and motivation behind this partnership: “If you don’t know who Mr. Beast is, I get that. It’s not for you, but that media thing that this company does is a behemoth” (43:03). Jeff contemplates the strategic value, stating, “This sounds like an attempt to grow Patterson’s market into the parents of these Mr. Beast fans” (44:15). They analyze whether such high-profile collaborations truly translate to increased book sales or merely serve as marketing maneuvers for both parties.

4. Upcoming Book Riot Projects and Patreon Content

The hosts preview several upcoming projects and exclusive Patreon content. Jeff introduces his latest solo effort, First Edition, where he explores 21 anticipated book releases for April, offering listeners a behind-the-scenes look at his unconventional To Be Read (TBR) list: “It's kind of fun” (01:48). Rebecca elaborates on her own reading approach, which she describes as a “vibe check” based on weekly releases that resonate with her current interests (02:24).

Listeners are also informed about the upcoming Hot List check-in and a mini book club discussion on Audition by Kate Kitamura scheduled for next Wednesday. Additionally, they announce an interview with the creators of the documentary Banned, focusing on recent book banning efforts in South Carolina and Florida.

5. Book Recommendations and Reviews

Rebecca takes the spotlight to review recent reads by their children. She provides a balanced critique of Bob the Drag Queen’s Harriet Tubman Live in Crime, praising the imaginative rap lyrics but criticizing the book's development and character depth: “The rest of the book, to me, kind of veered into, like, after school special kind of zone” (59:13). Conversely, she offers a glowing review of Kristin Arnett’s Stop Me if You've Heard this One, highlighting its humor and poignant storytelling: “It's really funny but also like really poignant and thoughtful” (60:01).

Jeff shares personal anecdotes about his vacation reading, admitting to not completing any books but highlighting the diverse interests of their children, such as Ames enjoying Sunrise at the Reaping and Zero Stars, and Rowan engaging with Celeste Ng’s Everything I Never Told You and Beauty Land.

6. Reflections on Reader Engagement and Market Growth

The hosts engage in a reflective conversation about the importance of market growth in the publishing industry. Jeff emphasizes the challenge publishers face in expanding their market without relying solely on acquisitions: “They have not figured out how to do it” (37:20). Rebecca suggests innovative approaches like partnering with influential content creators to attract younger audiences, though they remain skeptical about the long-term effectiveness of such strategies.

Notable Quotes

• Jeff O'Neill: “I am surprised. I expect James to win all of these awards for which that book is available and eligible” (14:06).
• Rebecca Schinsky: “This will light a fire under you to make some phone calls and go to some meetings” (24:54).
• Jeff O'Neill: “You can’t click on anything. There’s no explanation” (19:02).
• Rebecca Schinsky: “I have to say say hello to Michelle.” (19:20).
• Jeff O'Neill: “They have not figured out how to do it” (37:20).

Conclusion

Jeff and Rebecca provide a comprehensive overview of the current literary landscape, blending award analysis, censorship debates, industry insights, and personal book reviews. Their balanced perspectives and critical examinations offer listeners a nuanced understanding of the challenges and trends shaping the world of books and reading today.

For more detailed discussions and recommendations, tune into the full episode of the Book Riot podcast or visit Book Riot’s website.