Book Riot - The Podcast: The It Books of February 2025

Hosts: Jeff O'Neill & Rebecca Schinsky
Release Date: February 5, 2025
Episode Title: The It Books of February 2025

Introduction

In this engaging episode of Book Riot - The Podcast, hosts Jeff O'Neill and Rebecca Schinsky delve into the selection of the "It Books" for February 2025. With the publishing calendar in a relatively slower phase, February presents a unique opportunity to spotlight emerging titles and anticipated releases. The hosts employ a knockout-round selection process to determine the standout books, blending personal insights with industry trends.

Selection Process

Jeff and Rebecca outline their method for choosing the month's top books, likening it to a Survivor-style competition. They emphasize criteria such as critical acclaim, sales potential, and the intangible "it" factor that makes a book resonate with readers.

Jeff O'Neill [00:57]: "If this is your first time joining us, I prepare a list of the 10 finalists and then we go one by one, knockout round style Survivor advances to declare the it book of the month."

Rebecca adds a touch of humor to the selection process, highlighting the subjective nature of what constitutes an "it" book.

Rebecca Schinsky [01:21]: "We've had, what, four quadrants of it book ness in the past, but I could never consistently remember what the four are."

Featured Book Releases

1. "On the Hippie Trail: Istanbul to Kathmandu and the Making of a Travel Writer" by Rick Steves

Timestamp: [09:01]

Jeff and Rebecca explore Rick Steves' latest release, an origin story detailing his transformative summer in 1978. The book offers a rare glimpse into Steves' early adventures and the travel journals that would shape his career.

Rebecca Schinsky [09:03]: "It is amazing how fully formed the Rick Steves voice feels in this, this very early writing of his."

The hosts appreciate the authentic portrayal of a young Rick Steves, complete with personal anecdotes and photographs from his travels.

2. "Cleavage: Men, Women in the Space Between Us" by Jennifer Finney Boylan

Timestamp: [12:06]

Jennifer Finney Boylan's latest work tackles themes of gender and identity, offering hope for a future where diverse identities coexist harmoniously.

Jeff O'Neill [13:30]: "It provides hope for a future in which all the freedom to joyfully as men, as women and in the space between us live."

Rebecca underscores the book's relevance amidst current socio-political climates, emphasizing its importance in fostering understanding and visibility for transgender individuals.

3. "Deep Cuts" by Holly Brickley

Timestamp: [17:35]

"Deep Cuts" presents a literary fiction narrative reminiscent of Daisy Jones & The Six, set against the backdrop of Berkeley in the fall of 2000. The story revolves around Percy, a non-musician, and her evolving relationship with a budding musician.

Jeff O'Neill [18:21]: "But Percy, who is not a musician, doesn't really have any talent for it. Starts analyzing the song, and you know what? She knows to be an annoying habit of hers."

The book's exploration of personal growth and artistic collaboration captivates Rebecca, who anticipates it becoming a favorite in her reading list.

4. "Dark Mirror" by Samantha Shannon

Timestamp: [22:44]

The fifth installment in Samantha Shannon's Bone Season trilogy, "Dark Mirror" blends elements of fantasy and literary fiction. Jeff discusses the packaging and marketing strategies employed by Crown to reintroduce literary fiction into the mainstream.

Jeff O'Neill [22:44]: "Crown is back in the literary fiction business. It sounds great."

Rebecca expresses excitement over the book's potential, noting its alignment with contemporary literary trends.

5. "One Day" by Omar El Akkad

Timestamp: [25:39]

Omar El Akkad's "One Day" presents a poignant critique of Western ideals through the lens of geopolitical turmoil. Jeff and Rebecca acknowledge the book's challenging themes, recognizing its significance in current global conversations.

Rebecca Schinsky [26:59]: "It's an important conversation any day, but an especially important conversation right now."

The hosts appreciate the book's depth and its ability to provoke thoughtful discourse among readers.

6. "Stone Yard Devotional" by Charlotte Wood

Timestamp: [36:17]

Charlotte Wood's "Stone Yard Devotional" is highlighted as a Booker Prize-winning novel that delves into themes of spirituality and personal transformation. Rebecca leans towards this title due to its compelling narrative and critical acclaim.

Jeff O'Neill [37:09]: "A middle-aged woman leaves Sydney to return to the place she grew up, taking refuge in a small religious community..."

Rebecca supports the selection, anticipating its popularity in book clubs and literary discussions.

7. "Fearless and Free" by Josephine Baker

Timestamp: [40:07]

This memoir, available in English for the first time, chronicles Josephine Baker's rise as a cultural icon in 1930s Paris. Jeff praises the historical significance and the personal insights the memoir offers.

Jeff O'Neill [41:09]: "It's a historical document, so it needs to be treated as such for better and for worse."

Rebecca is intrigued by Baker's adventurous spirit and the memoir's potential to inspire listeners.

8. "Death Takes Me" by Christina Rivera Garza

Timestamp: [43:57]

Christina Rivera Garza's "Death Takes Me" emerges as a strong contender, especially following her previous accolades. The novel combines elements of mystery and literary fiction, promising a riveting read.

Jeff O'Neill [44:10]: "Stumbled upon the corpse of a mutilated man in a dark alley... It's a Da Vinci Code. Up."

Rebecca agrees, giving the nod to Garza's literary prowess and anticipating its reception in broader literary circles.

9. "Sola" by Allegra Goodman

Timestamp: [30:33]

"Sola" by Allegra Goodman is noted for its historical depth and realistic portrayal of a woman's expedition in the 16th century. Jeff and Rebecca discuss its potential appeal to both literary enthusiasts and readers interested in historical narratives.

Jeff O'Neill [30:45]: "Sam was a huge. Sold very well. Also was a read with Jenna selection."

Rebecca is fascinated by the book's intricate plot and its blend of historical accuracy with compelling storytelling.

Insights and Industry Trends

Throughout the episode, Jeff and Rebecca provide insightful commentary on current publishing trends, such as the resurgence of literary fiction under major publishers like Crown and the rise of genres like Romantasy. They also touch upon marketing strategies, like the inclusion of maps in historical novels and the impact of book club selections on a book's success.

Rebecca Schinsky [19:42]: "This is new to me. I missed this one probably because of the debut nature of it. And typically those are harder to fit into reading, but I feel like I'm going to be bumping this up."

Their discussions highlight the delicate balance authors and publishers maintain between artistic integrity and commercial viability.

Final Selection: "Death Takes Me" by Christina Rivera Garza

After a thorough discussion of various contenders, Jeff and Rebecca decide to crown Christina Rivera Garza's "Death Takes Me" as the "It Book" of February 2025. The decision is influenced by Garza's established reputation, the novel's compelling narrative, and its potential to engage a wide audience.

Rebecca Schinsky [45:14]: "We're going to knock out deep cuts, but I'm really glad you included this one."

Jeff O'Neill [45:15]: "We're going to have a mutiny. So I'm sort of like, I don't know. I don't know what the Robert's Rules of Order for this pot is, but I'm so excited for this."

Their enthusiasm underscores the book's anticipated impact and the hosts' confidence in its resonance with listeners.

Conclusion

Jeff and Rebecca wrap up the episode by acknowledging the diverse range of books discussed and reaffirming their commitment to highlighting standout titles each month. They tease upcoming episodes, including interviews with authors and deep dives into specific genres, ensuring listeners remain engaged and informed about the latest in the literary world.

Jeff O'Neill [48:37]: "I hope you enjoy that over here, you know, hear us again with. Let's see, is just."

Rebecca Schinsky [49:41]: "Thanks so much for listening today."

Listeners are encouraged to visit bookriot.com for additional insights, show notes, and to engage with the podcast community.

Notable Quotes:

• "If this is your first time joining us, I prepare a list of the 10 finalists and then we go one by one, knockout round style Survivor advances to declare the it book of the month."
  — Jeff O'Neill [00:57]

• "We've had, what, four quadrants of it book ness in the past, but I could never consistently remember what the four are."
  — Rebecca Schinsky [01:21]

• "It is amazing how fully formed the Rick Steves voice feels in this, this very early writing of his."
  — Rebecca Schinsky [09:03]

• "A middle-aged woman leaves Sydney to return to the place she grew up, taking refuge in a small religious community..."
  — Jeff O'Neill [36:27]

• "We're going to have a mutiny. So I'm sort of like, I don't know. I don't know what the Robert's Rules of Order for this pot is, but I'm so excited for this."
  — Jeff O'Neill [45:15]

This episode of Book Riot - The Podcast serves as a comprehensive guide to February's literary landscape, offering listeners thoughtful recommendations and insightful discussions on some of the most anticipated books of the month.