Podcast Summary: What Should I Read Next?
Episode 472: Literary + Genre = Match Made in Heaven
Release Date: April 1, 2025
Host: Anne Bogel

Introduction

In Episode 472 of What Should I Read Next?, host Anne Bogel delves into the seamless blend of literary and genre fiction with her guest, Laura Lara. This episode explores how combining rich literary elements with specific genres can create captivating and thought-provoking reads, perfect for book lovers seeking their next literary adventure.

Guest Introduction: Laura Lara

[04:37] Laura: "I am a corporate storyteller. I live in Phoenix, Arizona, and I've lived here most of my life..."

Laura introduces herself as a corporate storyteller based in Phoenix, Arizona. She shares insights into her personal life, including her passion for reading, her involvement in multiple book clubs, and her love for community-building through literature.

Laura’s Reading Life and Background

[05:39] Anne Bogel: "Oh, that sounds lovely. I've never been to Arizona. Would very much love to go."

Laura describes her extensive involvement in the literary community, highlighting her role in founding the Book Babes Book Club in 2013 and her participation in the online Book Bingo book club. She emphasizes the importance of books in connecting people and fostering deep conversations.

[06:30] Laura: "I think it would be really surprising if I wasn't a reader. My name comes from the famous book Dr. Zhivago..."

Growing up in a family of avid readers, Laura developed a profound appreciation for fiction that delves into the human condition. Her reading journey has been significantly enriched by her active participation in various book clubs and her collaboration on a book review column, Snotty Literati.

The Intersection of Literary and Genre Fiction

Anne and Laura discuss the intriguing concept of combining literary fiction with strong genre elements like romance, adventure, mystery, and dystopia. This blend creates stories that are not only beautifully written but also engaging and thought-provoking.

[10:29] Anne Bogel: "I really loved the concept you brought to us on your submission where you had this aha moment..."

Laura explains her epiphany about seeking books that offer both literary depth and distinct genre characteristics, providing a richer reading experience ideal for stimulating book club discussions.

[13:29] Laura: "Exactly. And it's not to say when we say literary fiction... I do love a beautifully crafted sentence."

They define literary fiction loosely, focusing on books that are well-written and emotionally engaging without being overly dense or inaccessible.

Laura’s Favorite Books

Laura shares three books she loves, each exemplifying the blend of literary quality and genre elements.

1. James by Percival Everett

[18:31] Laura: "This is a truly remarkable book. It's literary for sure and I honestly think it should be required reading..."

James is Everett’s reimagining of Huckleberry Finn, presenting Jim as James—a more intellectually and emotionally complex character. Laura praises the book for its literary merit, humor, and impactful twist.

2. Shark Heart by Emily Hayback

[20:01] Laura: "Shark Heart... about a husband transforming into a great white shark in his first year of marriage..."

Despite initial reservations due to its unusual premise, Laura found Shark Heart to be a profound metaphor for personal transformation and the challenges of supporting loved ones undergoing significant changes.

3. The Funny Thing About Norman Forman by Julietta Henderson

[23:45] Laura: "Speaks to the goodness of people, the goodness of humanity... a delightful story."

This heartwarming story follows Norman, a shy 12-year-old, as he honors his late friend by pursuing their shared dream of creating a comedy show. Laura appreciates the book’s depiction of community, personal growth, and resilience.

Book Laura Didn’t Enjoy

Long Island Compromise by Taffy Brodesser-Akner Echner

[26:18] Laura: "This is always hard to choose, but a book that did not work for me was Long Island Compromise..."

Despite being well-written, Laura found the book’s graphic and abrupt narrative off-putting. She struggled with the portrayal of unlikable characters and felt the content was gratuitously intense, making it difficult for her to finish without the support of a book club.

Books Laura Has Been Reading Lately

1. We Burn Daylight by Brett Anthony Johnston

A literary coming-of-age novel that retells the story of the Waco siege, blending historical fiction with deep character exploration.

2. The Wedding People by Alison Esposito

A seemingly light-hearted beach read that delves into serious themes with balanced humor and substance.

3. Good Dirt by Charmaine Wilkerson

A gripping narrative told from multiple perspectives, intertwining different timelines to explore complex family dynamics.

Anne’s Recommendations for Laura

Based on Laura's preferences, Anne recommends several books that align with her desire for literary depth combined with genre elements.

1. Broken Country by Claire Leslie Hall

[34:40] Anne Bogel: "It is a real genre bender that's really beautifully crafted..."

A multifaceted novel intertwining historical events, family drama, and literary references set in the picturesque Dorset countryside.

2. Hum by Helen Phillips

[47:27] Anne Bogel: "It's going to be deeply unsettling for a lot of readers... about the human condition."

A dystopian tale set in a near-future New York City grappling with severe climate change and the rise of AI, exploring themes of survival and familial bonds.

3. Maya and Natasha by Elise Durham

[49:12] Anne Bogel: "The twins... talented ballerinas in Soviet-era Russia..."

A historical fiction narrative focusing on contentious sibling relationships within the competitive world of Soviet ballet, enriched with cultural and historical details.

Conclusion: Laura’s Next Reading Choices

Laura finds herself torn between Anne’s recommendations of Broken Country and Hum, both of which promise to deliver the rich, genre-blended literary experiences she seeks. She expresses enthusiasm for exploring these new titles, confident in their alignment with her literary preferences.

[54:38] Laura: "Oh, Ann, you're giving me a hard choice. And shame on me for thinking that you could have possibly chosen only books I'd read before."

Anne encourages Laura, affirming that both selections offer unique and engaging narratives that cater to her love for deep, conversation-worthy reads.

Final Thoughts

This episode of What Should I Read Next? underscores the value of merging literary craftsmanship with diverse genres to create compelling stories. Anne Bogel and Laura Lara’s insightful discussion provides listeners with a nuanced understanding of selecting books that not only entertain but also provoke thoughtful dialogue and personal reflection.

Notable Quotes:

• Laura [00:00]: "When I talk to people about books and say, you know, my wheelhouse safe place Comfort book is contemporary literary fiction."

• Anne Bogel [04:22]: "Laura, thanks for coming on. Start by telling us a little about yourself."

• Laura [10:29]: "I think you are."

• Anne Bogel [13:51]: "Right, that's good, because I'm not ready to talk about James Joyce."

• Laura [14:39]: "Absolutely."

For more insights and book recommendations, visit whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com and follow Laura on Instagram @onelitchick.

Happy reading!