Episode Summary: What Should I Read Next? – Ep 479: Balancing Backlist with Shiny New Releases

Release Date: May 27, 2025

In this enriching episode of What Should I Read Next?, host Anne Bogel delves into the perennial challenge faced by avid readers: balancing cherished backlist titles with the allure of new releases. Joining her is Elise Branchau, a professional classical singer from New Jersey and a self-described "reading planning nerd." Together, they explore strategies to harmonize planned reading lists with the excitement of discovering fresh literary offerings.

Guest Introduction: Elise Branchau

[05:05] Anne Bogle: "Readers, today's guest is Elise Branchau, a professional classical singer who lives in New Jersey. Elise describes herself as a huge reading planning nerd..."

Elise opens up about her multifaceted life, juggling her career in music with roles as the director of operations for a conflict resolution nonprofit and freelance proofreading. Her passion for reading is deeply rooted, stemming from childhood memories of her father reading The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings series to her by lantern light during camping trips.

The Challenge: Balancing Planned Reads with New Releases

Elise candidly discusses the tension between adhering to meticulously crafted reading schedules and the irresistible pull of newly released books.

[12:06] Elise Branchau: "I love being like, ooh, I'm gonna read this book then, I'm gonna read this book then, and here's my TBR. And it's like, I love a good spreadsheet, I probably have too many."

Her approach includes organizing a year-long TBR list tailored to seasonal vibes, such as reading Joyland by Stephen King during a summer beach vacation to resonate with her surroundings. However, the influx of new releases each summer introduces anxiety over potentially derailing her structured plans.

[16:38] Elise Branchau: "Yes, absolutely."

Acknowledging the dilemma, Anne and Elise brainstorm solutions to incorporate both backlist and new titles without overwhelming the reading schedule.

Favorite Books

1. Fingersmith by Sarah Waters

[20:13] Elise Branchau: "Fingersmith is a literary gothic, historical fiction, slash thriller set in Victorian England. The plot is the most intricate and beautifully astonishing I've ever read."

Elise praises the novel for its atmospheric setting and masterful plotting, highlighting how Sarah Waters seamlessly blends different genres to create a gripping narrative that keeps readers on edge.

2. The Vaster Wilds by Lauren Groff

[24:32] Elise Branchau: "The Vaster Wilds is a literary historical fiction that explores survival, transformation, and revelation through the journey of a young girl escaping a colonial settlement."

She lauds Groff's vivid descriptions and the protagonist's deep interior journey, which offer a profound commentary on human resilience and the natural world.

3. Northwoods by Daniel Mason

[29:13] Elise Branchau: "Northwoods follows the life of a stone house in the Massachusetts woods over centuries, creatively told through various formats like letters and case notes."

Elise is captivated by the book's inventive structure and emotional depth, which invite readers to ponder the interconnectedness of history, nature, and memory.

Book Not a Good Fit: The Berry Pickers by Amanda Peters

[33:32] Elise Branchau: "While I appreciate the setting and cultural perspective, the book felt frustrating due to its predictable mystery and passive characters."

Elise explains that despite initial intrigue, the novel's lack of suspense and emotionally manipulative tone detracted from her reading experience. She contrasts it with God of the Woods by Liz Moore, which she finds far more engaging and satisfying.

Recommendations: Backlist and New Releases

Backlist Selections

1. History of Sound by Ben Shattuck

   [55:38] Anne Bogle: "This collection of linked short stories spans from 1700s Nantucket to present-day New England, offering deep atmospheric dives into the region."

   Anne highlights the book's structural ingenuity and how it serves as an excellent entry point for readers interested in short stories within a cohesive setting.

2. Maddalena and the Dark by Julia Fine

   [60:33] Anne Bogle: "A Faustian mermaid fever dream set in baroque Venetian landscapes, this dark fantasy intertwines classical music, ambition, and forbidden love."

   Elise is immediately captivated by the book's rich descriptions and thematic depth, aligning perfectly with her love for historically infused narratives.

New Releases for Summer 2025

1. Bug Hollow by Michelle Hunvivan

   [65:41] Anne Bogle: "Set against a backdrop of 1970s Northern California and Dubai, this family saga explores the ramifications of a son's ill-fated road trip."

   Elise is intrigued by the novel's exploration of family dynamics and its realistic portrayal of personal and relational complexities over decades.

2. The Ghostwriter by Julie Clark

   [60:34] Anne Bogle: "A suspenseful tale of a ghostwriter uncovering dark family secrets while navigating a strained father-daughter relationship set in California."

   Elise resonates with the book's propulsive plot and dark themes, finding it a compelling addition to her summer reading list.

Final Thoughts: Embracing Flexibility in Reading Choices

As the conversation winds down, both Anne and Elise reflect on the importance of flexibility in managing reading lists. Elise expresses relief at adopting a "seasonal menu" approach, allowing her to maintain structure while leaving room for spontaneity and new discoveries.

[51:53] Anne Bogle: "I love the idea of planning for spontaneity and building in wildcard slots for impulse picks that emerge during the season."

This strategic balance not only alleviates anxiety but also enriches the reading experience by fostering both planned exploration and serendipitous encounters with new literature.

Conclusion

Episode 479 of What Should I Read Next? offers a thoughtful exploration of how readers can honor their established reading preferences while remaining open to new literary adventures. Through Elise Branchau's insightful experiences and Anne Bogel's guiding expertise, listeners are equipped with practical strategies to curate a balanced and fulfilling reading journey.

Notable Quotes:

• Elise Branchau at [12:06]: "I love planning my reading almost as much as actually reading. I love being like, ooh, I'm gonna read this book then, I'm gonna read this book then, and here's my TBR."

• Anne Bogle at [51:53]: "I love the idea of planning for spontaneity and building in wildcard slots for impulse picks that emerge during the season."

Explore More:

• Find Elise Branchau: elisefrancheau.com
• Full List of Discussed Titles: whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com
• Subscribe and Follow: Stay updated with weekly episodes by subscribing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform.

Happy reading!