Episode Summary: Ep 486 – Setting-Driven Stories, Accidental Reading Themes, and Winning Characters

Released on July 22, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 486 of "What Should I Read Next?", host Anne Bogel welcomes Ellen Heath, a retired urban planner from the Atlanta area, to discuss her unique approach to reading, her favorite books, and her strategies for selecting new reads. Ellen brings a rich perspective as a lifelong reader with a penchant for immersive settings and well-developed characters.

Ellen's Reading Journey and Preferences

Ellen Heath opens up about her lifelong relationship with reading, deeply influenced by her mother, an English teacher. She fondly recalls her childhood days reading the Bobsy Twins with her best friend Betty during recess ([06:20]). Transitioning into adulthood, Ellen embraced digital reading, primarily using her Kindle to manage a library of around 100 books. She articulates her reading priorities clearly:

"Character and setting are the most important things to me. I like historical fiction, literary fiction, mysteries, and narrative nonfiction." ([08:17])

Ellen values immersive experiences in books, seeking narratives that are not only entertaining but also educational.

Unique Book Selection Method

Ellen employs a systematic approach to manage her extensive Kindle library. Without maintaining a traditional To Be Read (TBR) list, she navigates her collection by sorting books in various ways—by title, author, or publication date—and selects her next read based on a rotating system that ensures variety. She explains:

"I try to go through it kind of systematically to make sure that I'm not just only reading the latest and greatest." ([08:38])

This method helps her balance between different genres and types of narratives, preventing her from sticking to a single category.

Approach to DNF (Did Not Finish) Books

Ellen discusses her struggle with DNFing books, emphasizing her inclination to finish what she starts due to a sense of obligation and respect for authors. However, she's aware of the wasted time and seeks improvement:

"I have to give doing the author justice... there's nothing wrong with abandoning if I don't like it." ([16:48])

She shares experiences with challenging books like "The Luminaries", where persevering through difficulties led to rewarding outcomes ([15:46]).

Favorite Books Discussed

1. "Clear" by Carys Davies ([25:36])

Ellen praises this historical fiction novel for its rich setting and compelling character dynamics. Set during the Highland Clearances in Scotland, the story follows John Ferguson, a minister tasked with evicting a tenant, Ivan, who ends up helping him after an accident. Ellen highlights:

"The sense of place in this book is just incredible." ([29:05])

She appreciates the book's immersive environment and nuanced portrayal of relationships.

2. "The Safekeep" by Yael van der Wouden ([30:24])

Described as a blend of historical fiction and mystery, the novel is set in 1960s Netherlands. It centers on Isabel, a repressed woman, and Eva, her brother's new girlfriend. Ellen enjoys the book's intricate character development and unexpected twists:

"There was a big surprise... it changes your perspective on everything." ([30:24])

3. "Mr. Loverman" by Bernadine Evaristo ([33:44])

This novel delves into the life of Barrington "Barry" Walker, a man navigating an unhappy marriage while maintaining a long-term affair. Ellen commends the book for its humor and depth:

"The character of Barry and the humor of the narrative... really attracted me." ([37:00])

She finds the storytelling both poignant and entertaining.

Book That Didn’t Resonate

"Hello Beautiful" by Anna Politano ([37:29])

Ellen expresses her disappointment with this family drama, citing unlikable characters and a repetitive genre:

"I just thought she treated her husband and one of her sisters just terribly and in a very selfish way." ([37:29])

She notes her growing fatigue with family dramas, despite recognizing that good books in the genre exist.

Recent Reads

1. "We Solve Murders" by Richard Osmond ([39:26])

Ellen enjoys this mystery series for its humorous and affectionate character portrayals, likening it to "The Thursday Murder Club."

2. "Women of Troy" by Pat Barker ([41:16])

Part of a trilogy reimagining the Iliad from the perspective of Trojan women, Ellen finds it a compelling and well-written narrative that offers fresh insights into classical stories.

Urban Planning Insights

Beyond reading, Ellen shares her extensive career in urban planning, highlighting her work with the National Park Service and various consulting projects. She emphasizes the importance of community engagement and learning from diverse communities:

"I really enjoyed the travel aspect... learning from different places." ([42:27])

Her professional experiences have enriched her appreciation for well-structured and thoughtfully designed settings in her reading material.

Book Recommendations by Anne

Based on Ellen's preferences, Anne offers tailored recommendations:

1. "Place of Tides" by James Rebanks ([52:57])

A nonfiction account of life on Norway's Vega Archipelago, this book offers an immersive setting and detailed portrayal of traditional lifestyles, aligning perfectly with Ellen's love for rich environments.

2. "Blue Hour" by Paula Hawkins ([55:51])

A thriller set on a unique Scottish island accessible only by tide, this novel features reclusive artists and mysterious events. Anne describes it as:

"Dark and broody and foggy and almost mystical." ([56:00])

Further Recommendations and Wrap-Up

Anne also mentions "Fingersmith" by Sarah Waters, drawing parallels to Ellen's appreciation for complex characters and intricate plots. The conversation concludes with mutual appreciation and shared recommendations that resonate with Ellen's literary tastes.

Notable Quotes

• Ellen on Reading Method:
  "I try to go through it kind of systematically to make sure that I'm not just only reading the latest and greatest." ([08:38])

• Ellen on DNF:
  "I have to give doing the author justice. The author probably doesn't care I've bought his or her book. And that's what they care about." ([16:48])

• Ellen on "Clear":
  "The sense of place in this book is just incredible." ([29:05])

• Ellen on "Mr. Loverman":
  "It's a sad story because here are these, you know, unhappy people because they can't be who they really want to be." ([37:00])

Conclusion

Episode 486 offers a deep dive into Ellen Heath's thoughtful approach to reading, her dedication to character-driven and setting-rich narratives, and her desire to continuously refine her reading habits. The episode provides valuable insights and recommendations for listeners seeking their next immersive and engaging read.

For more detailed book discussions and recommendations, visit whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com.