Episode Summary: "Ep 478: A Snippet from the 2025 Summer Reading Guide"
Release Date: May 20, 2025
In episode 478 of "What Should I Read Next?", host Ann Boekel delves into the latest 2025 Summer Reading Guide, offering listeners an exclusive glimpse into the curated selection of books designed to inspire and engage readers throughout the summer months. This episode focuses particularly on the Family Sagas category, presenting detailed discussions of three standout titles, alongside insights into the guide's creation and its new features.
Behind the Scenes of the 2025 Summer Reading Guide
Ann Boekel opens the episode by setting the stage for the 2025 Summer Reading Guide, highlighting its comprehensive nature:
"This year's guide is 40 packed pages and we've built in fun features like more of summer's most anticipated new releases, tons of backlist titles that play into our road trip theme, our ever-loved awesome on audio selections for both new releases and backlist books and more." (00:45)
She emphasizes the guide's dual purpose: to showcase both highly anticipated new releases and hidden gems that might otherwise go unnoticed. Unlike previous years, the 2025 guide introduces several new categories, expanding the horizons for readers seeking diverse genres.
The Tradition of the Live Unboxing Party
Continuing from last week's behind-the-scenes discussion with her husband and team member Will Bogle, Ann reminisces about the origin of the live unboxing parties:
"I almost said Kleenex. I almost said tissue at the end. There's pain, grief, addiction, more grief." (04:13)
She credits Jen Ginger, the Modern Mrs. Darcy Book Club Community Manager, for initiating the unboxing tradition in 2019. Initially skeptical, Ann now cherishes these interactive sessions where she provides nuanced descriptions and engages with the community, enriching the reading experience.
Spotlight on Family Sagas: Three Featured Books
1. The Bright Years by Sarah Damoff
Distributed by Simon and Schuster, The Bright Years is a multi-generational family saga set in Texas. It chronicles the lives of three generations, unraveling secrets and exploring themes of addiction and redemption.
"This is a heartbreaker. It could have gone in the heartbreaker category. That does not exist." (04:13)
Key Highlights:
- Plot: Follows Lillian, who meets Ryan at a Fort Worth library, leading to a marriage filled with undisclosed secrets.
- Themes: Addiction, grief, and the complexities of familial relationships.
- Notable Quote: "Sorrow eats time. Be patient. Time Eats Sorrow." – Louise Erdrich (04:35)
Will Bogle commends the book's emotional depth and its seamless portrayal of a family's struggle over decades, making it a compelling read for those seeking heartfelt narratives.
2. Flashlights by Susan Choi
Published by FSG and releasing on June 3rd, Flashlights is lauded as a significant addition to the 2025 catalog. Initially hesitant, Will Bogle found the book to exceed his expectations with its intricate storytelling.
"This is going to be a big summer book. It's got a big print run." (06:25)
Key Highlights:
- Plot: A multi-generational saga intertwined with a mystery, exploring family secrets and estrangement against a backdrop of geopolitical tensions.
- Themes: Memory, perception, and the elusive clarity in understanding loved ones.
- Notable Quote: "This is also an inquiry into the tricks and failures of our memories and our bodies." (06:26)
Set in 1970s Japan, the narrative begins with Louisa's harrowing experience as a child, setting the tone for a story rich in suspense and emotional complexity. Its suitability for book clubs is underscored by the myriad discussion topics it presents.
3. Run for the Hills by Kevin Wilson
Though Will Bogle didn’t have a personal copy at the time of recording, he avidly discusses Run for the Hills, marking it as the June selection for the Modern Mrs. Darcy Book Club.
"It's quirky, it's warm, it's big-hearted." (07:20)
Key Highlights:
- Plot: Follows four half-siblings on a cross-country road trip from Boston to California to search for their missing father, whom only one sibling knows exists.
- Themes: Found family, personal growth, and the humorous dynamics of sibling relationships.
- Audiobook Appeal: Narrated by Marin Ireland, the audiobook rendition is praised for its engaging performance (07:20).
Will appreciates Wilson's ability to blend absurdity with genuine emotional resonance, making the journey both entertaining and heartfelt. The book's relentless forward momentum mirrors the literal journey the characters undertake, offering readers a dynamic and relatable experience.
Expanding the Horizons: New Features of the 2025 Guide
Beyond the Family Sagas, the 2025 Summer Reading Guide introduces several other categories, including Tales of Love and Friendship, Mysteries and Thrillers, Historical Fiction, Literary and Contemporary Fiction, and Memoir and Nonfiction. Ann notes the prevalence of genre-bending titles, reflecting the evolving tastes of modern readers.
Additionally, for the first time, the guide is available in a professionally printed format, allowing readers to receive a tangible magazine delivered directly to their mailboxes. Accompanying this release is a new line of merchandise aligned with the road trip theme, featuring items like hats, T-shirts, and stickers.
"Because of the unpredictable landscape out there, we are only shipping to US addresses. That's for the time being." (03:50)
Ann encourages listeners to explore the full guide and participate in the live unboxing for a more immersive experience. Access to the complete unboxing session and the entire list of selected titles is available through their website.
Conclusion: Engaging with the Community
As the episode wraps up, Ann Boekel invites listeners to engage with the "What Should I Read Next?" community by joining their weekly email list, following them on Instagram, and sharing their summer reading experiences. She emphasizes the importance of community support in growing the show and maintaining its quality.
"As Rainer Maria Rilke said, 'Ah, how good it is to be among people who are reading.' Happy reading everyone." (12:45)
Ann’s heartfelt sign-off underscores the communal joy of reading, leaving listeners inspired to delve into the rich selections of the 2025 Summer Reading Guide.
For more details, to access the full Unboxing Party snippet, or to obtain the printed guide and new merchandise, visit modernmrsdarcy.com or whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com.