Book Riot - The Podcast: Episode Summary Title: The Most Recommendable Books of the Century (So Far)
Release Date: June 18, 2025
Hosts: Jeff O’Neill and Rebecca Schinsky
Location: Powell’s Bookstore, Portland, Oregon

Introduction

In the June 18, 2025 episode of Book Riot - The Podcast, hosts Jeff O’Neill and Rebecca Schinsky convened live at Powell’s Bookstore in Portland, Oregon, to discuss and recommend what they consider the most recommendable books of the 21st century so far. Steering clear of personal favorites that might not resonate broadly, the duo focused on books that are engaging, widely appealing, and offer meaningful reflections without delving into overly traumatic or niche subject matters.

Defining "Recommendable"

Rebecca Schinsky (03:14):
"Recommendable is like, it's good and you can recommend it to a lot of people. I think that means it's some. Maybe it's fun to read. It's probably pretty quick. It's engaging and interesting."

The hosts emphasized that recommendable books are those that can be enjoyed by a diverse audience, providing both entertainment and substance without requiring specialized knowledge or risking reader discomfort.

Top Recommended Books

1. Gilead by Marilynne Robinson (05:31 - 07:35)

Rebecca and Jeff launched their list with Gilead, praising it as a mutual favorite.

Rebecca Schinsky (06:19):
"It's written as letters to his young son about his life, about what he has seen in this small town, what it means to be a person who lives in the world."

The novel’s epistolary format and deep emotional resonance make it a standout, offering profound reflections on life, legacy, and human connections. The upcoming adaptation by Martin Scorsese added to its appeal, signaling broader recognition.

2. The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern (08:02 - 10:19)

Described as a fantasy romance with stunning world-building, The Night Circus captivated Jeff and Rebecca with its enchanting narrative.

Jeff O’Neill (08:17):
"The writing and world building is just out of this world."

The story’s magical setting—a traveling circus that appears only at night—and its intricate plot involving a centuries-long duel between magicians fascinated the hosts, highlighting its capacity to transport readers into a beautifully crafted fantasy realm.

3. The Book of Delights by Ross Gay (10:20 - 12:03)

Ross Gay’s collection of essays was lauded for its exploration of everyday joys and deeper societal reflections.

Rebecca Schinsky (10:31):
"Ross Gay is a black man. And so one of the essays is about, like, the nod between black men who pass each other on the sidewalk and what that means."

The essays blend personal delight with critical social commentary, making the book both uplifting and thought-provoking. Its suitability for short, daily readings was also highlighted as a plus for busy readers.

4. Pachinko by Min Jin Lee (12:28 - 14:47)

An epic family saga spanning generations, Pachinko was praised for its rich historical context and emotional depth.

Jeff O’Neill (12:45):
"She is not afraid, the author. To put your heart through the ringer without being melodramatic, which can be quite difficult to do."

The novel’s portrayal of the Korean immigrant experience in Japan, combined with its compelling characters and narrative resilience, makes it a powerful recommendation for those interested in historical and cultural narratives.

5. Blacktop Wasteland by S.A. Cosby (14:49 - 16:46)

A high-octane thriller, Blacktop Wasteland centers on a former getaway driver navigating moral dilemmas.

Rebecca Schinsky (15:27):
"She is not afraid, the author. To put your heart through the ringer without being melodramatic."

The book's gripping plot and fast-paced storytelling were highlighted as ideal for fans of mysteries and thrillers seeking something fresh and engaging beyond mainstream options like James Patterson.

6. House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J. Maas (Post-discussion Promotion)

Though primarily a promotional segment, Sarah J. Maas’s latest installment in the Crescent City series was mentioned for its action-packed narrative and expanding fantasy universe, catering to Romantasy enthusiasts.

7. Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel (31:17 - 33:15)

A post-apocalyptic novel blending art and survival, Station Eleven was commended for its poignant exploration of human resilience.

Rebecca Schinsky (31:25):
"It's beautiful. They changed some things from the book, but it's one of the cases where I think the adaptation really adds to the story."

The novel’s focus on a traveling symphony underscores the essential role of art and community in overcoming devastation, making it a heartfelt recommendation.

8. The Checklist Manifesto by Atul Gawande (33:43 - 36:15)

A productivity book with profound implications, The Checklist Manifesto was discussed for its practical approach to reducing errors through checklists.

Jeff O’Neill (34:30):
"We have all this technology and we don't even need technology. Pen and paper will work."

The hosts emphasized its applicability beyond medical professions, highlighting its value in everyday life and professional settings for enhancing efficiency and creativity.

9. Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdain (36:18 - 38:27)

Anthony Bourdain’s gritty memoir was recommended for its unfiltered portrayal of kitchen life and its influence on modern food culture.

Rebecca Schinsky (36:27):
"It didn't know it at the time, but he was starting a conversation that moved us into, maybe that's not how it should work."

The memoir’s raw honesty and vivid storytelling make it a must-read for anyone interested in the culinary world or seeking an authentic narrative voice.

10. A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles (38:34 - 40:26)

Set in pre-revolutionary Russia, Amor Towles’s novel was praised for its elegant prose and character-driven narrative.

Jeff O’Neill (39:05):
"It's a chronicle of the next few decades. Decades of his life as he lives in this hotel and then lives through by proxy or by hotel suite and room service."

The story of Count Alexander Rostov, confined to a grand hotel, explores themes of resilience and adaptation in a changing world, resonating with readers who appreciate subtle yet profound storytelling.

Additional Recommendations

Throughout the episode, Jeff and Rebecca also touched upon several other noteworthy books, including:

• The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett: A story exploring identity and family dynamics through the lens of twin sisters who choose different racial identities.

• The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin: A heartwarming tale about a bookstore owner whose life changes with the arrival of a mysterious child.

• The Martian by Andy Weir: Though widely recognized, it was lauded for its engaging mix of science and humor.

• The Emperor of All Maladies by Siddhartha Mukherjee: An insightful biography of cancer, blending medical history with human stories.

Interactivity and Audience Engagement

The hosts engaged with the live audience, encouraging participation and personal recommendations, thereby enriching the discussion with diverse perspectives. They emphasized the importance of books that not only reflect personal interests but also introduce readers to new and challenging ideas.

Conclusion

Jeff O’Neill and Rebecca Schinsky concluded the episode by reiterating their passion for recommending books that balance enjoyment with meaningful content. They encouraged listeners to explore the diverse selections discussed, assuring that these books offer enriching experiences suitable for a wide range of readers.

Notable Quotes:

• Rebecca Schinsky (10:31):
  "Ross Gay is a black man. And so one of the essays is about, like, the nod between black men who pass each other on the sidewalk and what that means."

• Jeff O’Neill (34:30):
  "We have all this technology and we don't even need technology. Pen and paper will work."

• Rebecca Schinsky (36:27):
  "It didn't know it at the time, but he was starting a conversation that moved us into, maybe that's not how it should work."

Recommendation

Whether you're looking to delve into profound family sagas, thrilling mysteries, or insightful non-fiction, this episode of Book Riot - The Podcast offers a curated list of books that are both engaging and broadly appealing. Jeff and Rebecca's thoughtful discussions and enthusiastic endorsements make these recommendations a valuable guide for your next great read.

For more information and to listen to the full episode, visit Book Riot Podcast.