Poured Over

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Welcome to Poured Over! A show about stories presented by Barnes & Noble Booksellers. New podcasts every Tuesday & Thursday.

Barnes & Noble


    • May 29, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 47m AVG DURATION
    • 543 EPISODES

    Ivy Insights

    The Poured Over podcast is an absolute gem for book lovers. As an avid reader, I am always on the lookout for new books to devour, and this podcast delivers just that. The interviews conducted by host Miwa Messer are engaging, insightful, and thought-provoking. Messer has a talent for asking thoughtful questions that delve deep into the author's work and process. The conversations feel natural and comfortable, as if you are eavesdropping on an intimate conversation between friends over a cup of coffee. This podcast has introduced me to a plethora of incredible authors and books that I may not have discovered otherwise.

    One of the best aspects of The Poured Over podcast is the sheer variety of books and authors featured. From debut novelists to established literary figures, there is something for everyone in each episode. The interviews go beyond just discussing plot summaries and delve into the why and how of a book being written. It offers unique insights into the creative process and allows listeners to gain a deeper understanding of literature as both an art form and a reflection of our world.

    Another standout aspect of this podcast is the research done by Miwa Messer before each interview. Her depth of knowledge about both the author's previous work and their current project shines through in her questions. This level of preparation leads to nuanced conversations that touch on various themes, emotions, and life experiences. Messer's tact, grace, and skillset as an interviewer create an atmosphere where authors feel comfortable opening up about their writing journey.

    In terms of drawbacks, it is challenging to find any major flaws with this podcast. However, one small criticism could be that some episodes focus heavily on well-known authors or popular titles rather than exploring more niche or lesser-known works. While it is not necessarily a negative aspect, it would be great to see even more diverse voices featured in future episodes.

    In conclusion, The Poured Over podcast is a must-listen for any book lover. The interviews are engaging, insightful, and offer a unique perspective into the world of literature. Miwa Messer's interviewing skills and thorough research make each episode a joy to listen to. Whether you are looking for recommendations or simply enjoy diving deep into the creative process, this podcast is a treasure trove of literary goodness. Grab your favorite hot beverage, sit back, and immerse yourself in the world of books with The Poured Over podcast.



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    Latest episodes from Poured Over

    Laura Pegram, Edwidge Danticat and Princess Joy L. Perry on SING THE TRUTH

    Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2025 46:42


    Laura Pegram, Edwidge Danticat and Princess Joy L. Perry joined us live at B&N Upper West Side to celebrate 15 Years of The Kweli Journal. Listen in as they chat about using language to build community, short stories vs novels, witnessing emerging talent and more with host Miwa Messer. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Miwa Messer and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): Sing the Truth: The Kweli Journal Short Story Collection edited by Laura Pegram Krik? Krak! by Edwidge Danticat This Here is Love by Princess Joy L. Perry A Kind of Rapture by Robert Bergman

    Robert Macfarlane on IS A RIVER ALIVE?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 27, 2025 52:26


    Travel writing, ecological reporting and history flow together in a portrait of one of nature's most powerful features in Is a River Alive? by Robert Macfarlane. Rob joins us to talk about the rights of rivers, white river kayaking, giving old ideas new power, moral imagination, fear vs risk, water puns and more with guest host Chris Gillespie. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Chris Gillespie and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): Is a River Alive? by Robert Macfarlane Underland: A Deep Time Journey by Robert Macfarlane

    Tayari Jones and A.M. Homes on 30 Years of the Women's Prize for Fiction

    Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2025 56:49


    Tayari Jones and A.M. Homes joined us live at B&N Upper West Side to celebrate 30 Years of the Women's Prize for Fiction and riff on the craft of writing, the importance (and fun) of editing, unlikable characters, literary influences, endings and more with host Miwa Messer. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Miwa Messer and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): An American Marriage by Tayari Jones May We Be Forgiven by A.M. Homes James by Percival Everett Good Girl by Aria Aber

    Alison Bechdel on SPENT

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2025 33:16


    Spent by Alison Bechdel is a big-hearted and funny account of life and art from a beloved author. Alison joins us to talk about late-stage capitalism, vulnerability hangovers, community, writing autofiction and more with cohost Jenna Seery. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Jenna Seery and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): Spent by Alison Bechdel Fun Home by Alison Bechdel Are You My Mother? by Alison Bechdel Diet for a Small Planet by Frances Moore Lappé The Unstrung Harp by Edward Gorey

    Sarah Kay on A LITTLE DAYLIGHT LEFT

    Play Episode Listen Later May 17, 2025 45:38


    Inspiring and uplifting, A Little Daylight Left by Sarah Kay is a poetry collection aimed at lighting the fire in you, whether you're facing new challenges, or staring down familiar ones. Sarah joined us live to talk about how she started writing poetry, making poetry accessible for any reader, live performances and more with host Miwa Messer. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Miwa Messer and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): A Little Daylight Left by Sarah Kay Martyr! by Kaveh Akabar

    Ron Chernow on MARK TWAIN

    Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2025 65:56


    Mark Twain by Ron Chernow is a deep dive into the life of one of America's literary geniuses through the eyes of a master biographer. Ron joins us to talk about his research process, understanding the inner and outer life of Mark Twain, viewing Twain through a modern lens, the future of biographies and more with guest host Chris Gillespie. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Chris Gillespie and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): Mark Twain by Ron Chernow Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain Chasing the Last Laugh by Richard Zacks Featured Books (TBR Top Off): Mark Twain by Ron Chernow James by Percival Everett The Invention of Nature by Andrea Wulf

    Ocean Vuong on THE EMPEROR OF GLADNESS

    Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2025 74:54


    There are the books you read and then there are the books you experience, like The Emperor of Gladness by Ocean Vuong. Poet, photographer and bestselling author, Vuong's novels are spun from gorgeous prose and vibrant, original imagery. Ocean joins us to talk about autofiction, language, wonder, characterization and more with Miwa Messer. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Miwa Messer and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): The Emperor of Gladness by Ocean Vuong Time is a Mother by Ocean Vuong On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous by Ocean Vuong Suttree by Cormac McCarthy Another Country by James Baldwin The Brothers Karamazov by Fyodor Dostoyevsky The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger The Adventures of Augie March by Saul Bellow Ways of Seeing by John Berger Featured Books (TBR Top Off): The Emperor of Gladness by Ocean Vuong Dayspring by Anthony Oliveira My Name is Emilia del Valle by Isabel Allende

    Florence Knapp on THE NAMES

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2025 37:36


    The Names by Florence Knapp is a stunning story about the power of family, legacy, language and lineage. Florence joins us to talk about writing in alternate timelines, the power of a name, fate vs choice, parenting and more with guest host Brenda Allison. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Brenda Allison and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): The Names by Florence Knapp This Is How It Always Is by Laurie Frankel Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid Take My Hand by Dolen Perkins-Valdez

    Jemimah Wei on THE ORIGINAL DAUGHTER

    Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2025 46:35


    The Original Daughter by Jemimah Wei is a story about the dawn of the internet, budding influencer culture and complicated family ties. Jemimah joins us to talk about Singapore, sisterhood, ambition, the rise of social media and more with Miwa Messer. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Miwa Messer and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): The Original Daughter by Jemimah Wei Giovanni's Room by James Baldwin A Heavy Feather by A.L. Barker A Single Man by Christopher Isherwood The Most by Jessica Anthony Heaven by Mieko Kawakami The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory Attack on Titan by Hajime Isayama Silver Sparrow by Tayari Jones Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara

    Michael Luo on STRANGERS IN THE LAND

    Play Episode Listen Later May 3, 2025 44:37


    Strangers in the Land by Michael Luo is a gripping history of Chinese immigrants in America, from the nineteenth century to modern times. Michael joins us to talk about researching archives, the Chinese Exclusion Act, writing narrative nonfiction, working as a journalist and more with host Miwa Messer. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Miwa Messer and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): Strangers in the Land by Michael Luo The Cycles of American History by Arthur M. Schlesinger, Jr Say Nothing by Patrick Radden Keefe The Wager by David Grann The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson A Fever in the Heartland by Timothy Egan

    Shelby Van Pelt on REMARKABLY BRIGHT CREATURES

    Play Episode Listen Later May 1, 2025 38:14


    Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt is the big-hearted tale of a detective octopus helping a grieving aquarium employee solve the mystery of her missing son. Shelby joins us to talk about living in an octopus renaissance, small towns, feeling uprooted, writing about grief, creating chapter titles and more with cohost Jenna Seery. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Jenna Seery and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt Charlotte's Web by E. B. White A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving

    Omar El Akkad On Writing

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2025 56:50


    Omar El Akkad began writing fiction while working as a journalist, leading to two novels and an essay collection: American War, What Strange Paradise and One Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This. Omar joins us to talk about the relationship between journalism and fiction writing, worldbuilding, living in translation, interiority and inversion with host Miwa Messer.  This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Miwa Messer and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): American War by Omar El Akkad What Strange Paradise by Omar El Akkad One Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This by Omar El Akkad Tree of Smoke by Denis Johnson A Bright Shining Lie by Neil Sheehan There's Always This Year by Hanif Abdurraqib

    Denne Michele Norris on WHEN THE HARVEST COMES

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 26, 2025 37:28


    When the Harvest Comes by Denne Michele Norris is a story about fathers and sons, love, life and inheritance. Denne joins us to talk about capturing music on the page, sibling relationships, literary influences, Ohio and more with host Miwa Messer. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Miwa Messer and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): When the Harvest Comes by Denne Michele Norris Going to Meet the Man by James Baldwin Light Years by James Salter Ghana Must Go by Taiye Selasi The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy

    Andrew Porter on THE IMAGINED LIFE

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2025 41:26


    The Imagined Life by Andrew Porter is a novel about fathers and sons, complex family mythologies and buried secrets. Andrew joins us to talk about finding the right tone for his novel, writing about the 1980s, Proust, the evolution of language and more with host Miwa Messer. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Miwa Messer and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): The Imagined Life by Andrew Porter How to Write an Autobiographical Novel by Alexander Chee The Crack-Up by F. Scott Fitzgerald Swann's Way by Marcel Proust

    Suleika Jaouad on THE BOOK OF ALCHEMY

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2025 42:33


    If you've ever wanted to start journaling, we've got you covered. The Book of Alchemy by Suleika Jaouad is filled with inspiration, advice and anecdotes from a lifelong journaler and bestselling author. Suleika joins us to talk about flexing your creative muscles, the importance of constancy over output, finding community in reading and writing, navigating uncertainty and more with cohost Jenna Seery. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Jenna Seery and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): The Book of Alchemy by Suleika Jaouad Between Two Kingdoms by Suleika Jaouad The Fault in Our Stars by John Green

    Camilla Barnes on THE USUAL DESIRE TO KILL

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2025 37:19


    Our favorite book families tend to be delightfully dysfunctional, and there are none quite like the one in The Usual Desire to Kill by Camilla Barnes. With two sisters, a pair of aging parents and barn animals aplenty, this is a quirky and heartfelt novel that reminds readers our parents had lives before us. Camilla Barnes joined us live at the Barnes & Noble on NYC's Upper West Side to talk about long-term marriage, family folklore, llamas and more with cohost Jenna Seery. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Jenna Seery and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): The Usual Desire to Kill by Camilla Barnes The Tiger Who Came to Tea by Judith Kerr How Not to Be a Politician by Rory Stewart

    Kevin Nguyen on MY DOCUMENTS

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 15, 2025 47:16


    Mỹ Documents by Kevin Nguyen follows four cousins navigating a tumultuous political landscape, internment camps, exploitation and isolation. Kevin joins us to talk about Japanese incarceration, media misinformation, writing family stories, war movies and more with Miwa Messer, host of Poured Over. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Miwa Messer and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): Mỹ Documents by Kevin Nguyen New Waves by Kevin Nguyen Farewell to Manzanar by Jeanne Wakatsuki Houston and James D. Houston The Sympathizer by Viet Thanh Nguyen O Sinners! by Nicole Cuffy Giant Robot by Eric Nakamura The Martian Chronicles by Ray Bradbury Leave the World Behind by Rumaan Alam No-No Boy by John Okada

    Reginald Dwayne Betts on DOGGEREL

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 12, 2025 59:06


    Doggerel by Reginald Dwayne Betts is a profound new collection on the intricacies of humanity and life, with man's best friend as its focal point. Reginald joins us to talk about storytelling, the power of poetry, the necessity for community, masculinity, freedom, forgiveness and more with host Miwa Messer, host of Poured Over. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Miwa Messer and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): Doggerel by Reignald Dwayne Betts Olio by Tyehimba Jess The Ferguson Report: An Erasure by Nicole Sealey leadbelly by Tyehimba Jess The Residue Years by Mitchell S. Jackson Felon by Reginald Dwayne Betts Redaction by Reginald Dwayne Betts and Titus Kaphar Bastards of the Reagan Era by Reginald Dwayne Betts Featured Books (TBR Top Off): Devotions by Mary Oliver Crush by Richard Siken

    reagan era reginald dwayne betts doggerel richard siken nicole sealey
    Kaliane Bradley on THE MINISTRY OF TIME

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2025 46:18


    The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley is escapist and relatable, poignant and funny. This genre-bending novel is firing on all storytelling cylinders, and is a terrific pleasure to read. Kaliane joined us to talk about falling down reading rabbit holes, writing about time travel, categorizing identity and more with cohost Jenna Seery. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Jenna Seery and mixed by Harry Liang.                      New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley Slaughterhouse Five by Kurt Vonnegut Time Lived, Without Its Flow by Denise Riley Featured Books (TBR Top Off): The Other Valley by Scott Alexander Howard The Giver by Lois Lowry Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro Sea of Tranquility by Emily St. John Mantel

    Katie Kitamura on AUDITION

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2025 49:28


    Audition by Katie Kitamura follows one woman's daring exploration of identity, life and love. Katie joins us to talk about writing in first person, unreliable narrators, marriage as a narrative tool, writing women and more with Miwa Messer, host of Poured Over.  This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Miwa Messer and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): Audition by Katie Kitamura Intimacies by Katie Kitamura A Separation by Katie Kitamura The Longshot by Katie Kitamura The Lover by Marguerite Duras Good Morning, Midnight by Jean Rhys The Lady with the Dog by Anton Chekhov Colored Television by Danzy Senna The Portrait of a Lady by Henry James The Anomaly by Hervé Le Tellier The Coin by Yasmin Zaher

    Ferris Jabr on BECOMING EARTH

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 5, 2025 59:42


    After you read Becoming Earth by Ferris Jabr, be prepared to reconsider everything you think, know or believe to be true thanks to this engaging and thoughtful new look at our world. Ferris joins us to talk about the Gaia hypothesis, understanding planetary systems from your own backyard, science writing and more with guest host Chris Gillespie. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Chris Gillespie and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): Becoming Earth by Ferris Jabr The Light Eaters by Zoë Schlanger Entangled Life by Merlin Sheldrake A Journey to the Center of the Earth by Jules Verne Featured Books (TBR Top Off): The Living Mountain by Nan Shepherd An Immense World by Ed Yong

    Maggie Smith on DEAR WRITER

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 3, 2025 53:04


    With personal anecdotes, writing exercises and a deep-dive into the pillars of creativity, Dear Writer by Maggie Smith is a one-stop-shop for budding authors, poets and artists from a bestselling voice in literature. Maggie joins us to talk about craft books, quieting the inner critic, tenacity, vulnerability and more with cohost Jenna Seery. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Jenna Seery and mixed by Harry Liang.                      New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app.  Featured Books (Episode): Dear Writer by Maggie Smith You Could Make This Place Beautiful by Maggie Smith On Writing by Stephen King Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott The Art of Memoir by Mary Karr Refuse to Be Done by Matt Bell Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert Why Poetry by Matthew Zapruder The Wonder Paradox by Jennifer Michael Hecht Featured Books (TBR Top Off): Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott Writing Down the Bones by Natalie Goldberg

    Jennifer Haigh on RABBIT MOON

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 1, 2025 40:54


    Rabbit Moon by Jennifer Haigh is a story of sisterhood, secrets and complicated family mythologies. Jennifer joined us to talk about writing in public spaces, visiting Shanghai, chance encounters, how well we really know our parents and more with guest host Brenda Allison. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Brenda Allison and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): Rabbit Moon by Jennifer Haigh Mercy Street by Jennifer Haigh Faith by Jennifer Haigh The City Changes Its Face by Eimear McBride

    Nicole Cuffy on O SINNERS!

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 29, 2025 46:37


    O Sinners! by Nicole Cuffy is a story about identity, grief, belonging, cults and coming-of-age centered on a young journalist in the California redwoods. Nicole joined us to talk about what it takes to build a cult, writing battle scenes, researching the Vietnam War, taking control of her language and more with Miwa Messer, host of Poured Over.  This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Miwa Messer and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): O Sinners! by Nicole Cuffy Dances by Nicole Cuffy All This Could Be Different by Sarah Thankam Mathews Interior Chinatown by Charles Yu The Things They Carried by Tim O'Brien Matterhorn: A Novel of the Vietnam War by Karl Marlantes Sula by Toni Morrison We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson

    Dennis E. Staples on PASSING THROUGH A PRAIRIE COUNTRY

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2025 45:56


    Passing Through a Prairie Country by Dennis E. Staples is a chilling tale of fear and folklore set in a labyrinthine casino on an Ojibwe reservation deep in the wilds of northern Minnesota. Dennis joins us to chat about brushing up against the paranormal, casino culture, writing genre fiction and more with cohost Jenna Seery. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Jenna Seery and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): Passing Through a Prairie Country by Dennis E. Staples This Town Sleeps by Dennis E. Staples The Mishomis Book: The Voice of the Ojibway by Edward Benton-Banai Ojibway Heritage by Basil H. Johnston The Shining by Stephen King Doctor Sleep by Stephen King The Thief of Always by Clive Barker Featured Books (TBR Top Off): The Only Good Indians by Stephen Graham Jones White Horse by Erika T. Wurth

    Brian Goldstone on THERE IS NO PLACE FOR US

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 25, 2025 44:50


    As timely as any book can possibly be, There Is No Place for Us is a sweeping and comprehensive journalistic investigation into a troubling new trend in American cities. Brian Goldstone joins us to talk about the realities of housing insecurity, on-the-ground reporting, narrative structure and more with Miwa Messer, host of Poured Over. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Miwa Messer and mixed by Harry Liang.                      New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app.  Featured Books (Episode): There is No Place for Us: Working and Homeless in America by Brian Goldstone Nickel and Dime: On (Not) Getting by in America by Barbara Ehrenreich Evicted by Matthew Desmond Invisible Child by Andrea Elliot  Rachel and Her Children: Homeless Families in America by Jonathan Kozol

    Revisiting Hilary Mantel on THE MIRROR AND THE LIGHT

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 22, 2025 35:37


    The Mirror and the Light is the final book in Hilary Mantel's Wolf Hall Trilogy, showcasing the final years of Thomas Cromwell. Before you watch the newest season of the tv show, listen to Mantel talk about crafting her beloved series, her unique approach to historical fiction, planning the end of the trilogy and more with Miwa Messer, host of Poured Over. We end this episode with TBR Top Off book recommendations from Marc and Donald.  This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Miwa Messer and mixed by Harry Liang.                      New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app.  Featured Books (Episode): The Mirror and The Light by Hilary Mantel  Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel  Bring Up the Bodies by Hilary Mantel  A Place of Greater Safety by Hilary Mantel   Featured Books (TBR Top Off):   Firebrand by Elizabeth Fremantle  The Marriage Portrait by Maggie O'Farrell 

    Chris Bohjalian on THE JACKAL'S MISTRESS

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2025 42:23


    The Jackal's Mistress by Chris Bohjalian is a sweeping tale of humanity and hope centered on two remarkable characters faced with a gruesome time in American history. Bohjalian joins us live at BN UWS to talk about his new book, his writing process and more with Miwa Messer, host of Poured Over. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Miwa Messer and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): The Jackal's Mistress by Chris Bohjalian

    Lauren Christensen on FIRSTBORN

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2025 40:02


    Firstborn by Lauren Christensen is a memoir of tragedy and hope that depicts grief and love with tenderness and heart. Christensen joins us to talk about deciding to tell this story, the impact of writing the book on herself and those close to her, her healing process and more with Miwa Messer, host of Poured Over.  This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Miwa Messer and mixed by Harry Liang.                      New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app.  Featured Books (Episode):  Firstborn by Lauren Christensen  An Exact Replica of a Figment of My Imagination by Elizabeth McCracken  Blue Nights by Joan Didion  North Woods by Daniel Mason  Martyr! by Kaveh Akbar  Good Girl by Aria Aber  How to Say Babylon by Safiya Sinclair  

    Scaachi Koul on SUCKER PUNCH

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 15, 2025 39:31


    Sucker Punch by Scaachi Koul is a witty and wise collection of essays on family, love, divorce and healing. Koul joins us to talk about what lead her to telling this story now, the vulnerability of writing a memoir, exploring challenging themes and more with cohost Jenna Seery.   This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Jenna Seery and mixed by Harry Liang.                      New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app.  Featured Books (Episode):  Sucker Punch by Scaachi Koul  One Day We'll All Be Dead and None of This Will Matter by Scaachi Koul  No Fault by Haley Mlotek  This American Ex-Wife by Lyz Lenz  You Could Make This Place Beautiful by Maggie Smith   Heartburn by Nora Ephron 

    sucker punch nora ephron scaachi koul this will matter all be dead
    Karen Russell on THE ANTIDOTE

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 13, 2025 39:30


    The Antidote by Karen Russell is a transportive story about history, American ideology, and community. Russell joins us to talk about creating her cast of characters, her research process and historical inspiration, writing short stories vs. novels and more with cohost Jenna Seery.  This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Jenna Seery and mixed by Harry Liang.                      New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app.  Featured Books (Episode):  The Antidote by Karen Russell  Swamplandia! by Karen Russell  Martyr! by Kaveh Akbar  The Mighty Red by Louise Erdrich  Stag Dance by Torrey Peters  Dust Bowls of Empire by Hannah Holleman  Canon by Paige Lewis  The Complete Cosmicomics by Italo Calvino  Portalmania by Debbie Urbanski  The Ghost Variations by Kevin Brockmeier 

    Torrey Peters on STAG DANCE

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2025 41:43


    Stag Dance by Torrey Peters is a series of short stories and a novel that examine gender identity, pushing societal boundaries and more. Peters joins us to talk about exploring complicated themes, creating understanding for complex characters and a unique use of literary form with cohost Jenna Seery.  This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Jenna Seery and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): Stag Dance by Torrey Peters Detransition, Baby by Torrey Peters Moby Dick by Herman Melville Laughter in the Dark by Vladimir Nabokov Nevada by Imogen Binnie  A Safe Girl to Love by Casey Plett I've Got a Time Bomb by Sybil Lamb A Brief History of Seven Killings by Marlon James Blood Meridian by Cormac McCarthy True Grit by Charles Portis Everything Ravaged, Everything Burned by Wells Tower When the Harvest Comes by Denne Michele Norris Trauma Plot by Jamie Hood Aggregated Discontent by Harron Walker Hot Girls with Balls by Benedict Nguyen Realistic Fiction by Anton Solomonik Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel Tai-Pan by James Clavell The Sound of Things Falling by Juan Gabriel Vásquez The Shape of the Ruins by Juan Gabriel Vásquez

    Chloe Dalton on RAISING HARE

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 8, 2025 47:23


    Raising Hare by Chloe Dalton is the inspiring and extraordinary story of an unlikely connection between a woman and a wild hare. Dalton joins us to talk about how her life changed after encountering the leveret, her transformed perspective on nature, finding a sense of wonder and more with cohost, Jenna Seery.   This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Jenna Seery and mixed by Harry Liang.                      New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app.  Featured Books (Episode):  Raising Hare by Chloe Dalton  Black Beauty by Anna Sewell  Charlotte's Web by E.B. White  Watership Down by Richard Adams  The Call of the Wild by Jack London  Ring of Bright Water by Gavin Maxwell 

    Karen Thompson Walker on THE STRANGE CASE OF JANE O.

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 6, 2025 47:22


    The Strange Case of Jane O. by Karen Thompson Walker is a mesmerizing story about motherhood, memory and complicated family ties based on case notes from Oliver Sacks. Walker joins us to talk about returning to the theme of time in her work, her writing process, her teaching career and more with Miwa Messer, host of Poured Over. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Miwa Messer and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): The Strange Case of Jane O. by Karen Thompson Walker The Dreamers by Karen Thompson Walker The Age of Miracles by Karen Thompson Walker Blindness by José Saramago Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro The Buddha in the Attic by Julie Otsuka

    Laila Lalami on THE DREAM HOTEL

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 4, 2025 56:10


    The Dream Hotel by Laila Lalami is an engrossing, dire and dystopian story about authoritarianism, survival and the fight for privacy in a surveillance state. Lalami joins us to talk about the idea that inspired the novel, worldbuilding, creating her characters and more with Miwa Messer, host of Poured Over.  This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Miwa Messer and mixed by Harry Liang.                      New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app.  Featured Books (Episode):  The Dream Hotel by Laila Lalami  The Other Americans by Laila Lalami  The Memory Police by Yoko Ogawa  True History of the Kelly Gang by Peter Carey  The Moor's Account by Laila Lalami  

    Sarah Jones on DISPOSABLE

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 1, 2025 36:08


    Disposable by Sarah Jones is a compassionate examination of the most overlooked people in the United States. Jones joins us to talk about what inspired her to write this book, balancing personal narratives with broader themes, the lasting effects of the pandemic and more with Miwa Messer, host of Poured Over. We end this episode with TBR Top Off book recommendations from Marc and Jamie. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Miwa Messer and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): Disposable by Sarah Jones Nickel and Dimed by Barbara Ehrenreich The Fact Checker by Austin Kelley A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin Featured Books (TBR Top Off): Poverty, by America by Matthew Desmond Invisible Child by Andrea Elliott

    Sonya Walger on LION

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 27, 2025 41:58


    Lion by Sonya Walger is an autobiographical novel detailing the life and loss of her complicated and charismatic father. Walger joins us to talk about writing themes of grief and love, crafting her own experience into fiction, nonlinear storytelling and more with cohost, Jenna Seery. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Jenna Seery and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): Lion by Sonya Walger On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous by Ocean Vuong War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy Her First American by Lore Segal Mrs. Dalloway by Virginia Woolf Decline and Fall by Evelyn Waugh Scoop by Evelyn Waugh The Last Samurai by Helen DeWitt

    Holly Brickley on DEEP CUTS

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 25, 2025 49:27


    Deep Cuts by Holly Brickley is a big-hearted story with an eclectic soundtrack and sentences that'll stick in your head like your favorite lyrics. Brickley joins us to talk about her emotional connection to music, weaving together the lives of her characters, the effects of nostalgia in the novel and more with guest host Allyson Gavaletz.  We end this episode with TBR Top Off book recommendations from Marc and Jamie. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Allyson Gavaletz and mixed by Harry Liang.                      New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app.  Featured Books (Episode): Deep Cuts by Holly Brickley High Fidelity by Nick Hornby Normal People by Sally Rooney A Feather on the Breath of God by Sigrid Nunez Featured Books (TBR Top Off): Love is a Mix Tape by Rob Sheffield Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin

    Matthew Goodman on PARIS UNDERCOVER

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 22, 2025 53:04


    Paris Undercover by Matthew Goodman sheds new light on the story of two women who rescued Allied soldiers during World War II and the complicated history that came after. Goodman joins us to talk about his research process, the consequences and challenges of analyzing the past, the cyclical nature of history and more with guest host Chris Gillespie.  This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Chris Gillespie and mixed by Harry Liang.                      New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app.  Featured Books (Episode):  Paris Undercover by Matthew Goodman  Eighty Days by Matthew Goodman 

    Ali Smith on GLIFF

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2025 35:45


    Gliff by Ali Smith is the story of two siblings navigating a dystopian world that feels timely and hopeful amid themes of isolation and identity. Smith joins us to talk about the meaning of the title, the beauty of physical books, creating empathy and understanding through reading and more with cohost Jenna Seery.    This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Jenna Seery and mixed by Harry Liang.                      New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app.   Featured Books (Episode):   Gliff by Ali Smith  How to be both by Ali Smith  Autumn by Ali Smith  The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood  Brave New World by Aldous Huxley   Metamorphoses by Ovid  Theory and Practice by Michelle de Kretser  Scary Monsters by Michelle de Kretser  The Bee Sting by Paul Murray  Skippy Dies by Paul Murray  Baumgartner by Paul Auster 

    Eric Puchner on DREAM STATE

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 18, 2025 47:11


    Dream State by Eric Puchner is a story spanning fifty years, with three best friends grappling with life, love, family and climate change set against the Montana terrain. Puchner joins us to talk about what inspired the novel, his writing process, what he loves about storytelling and more with Miwa Messer, host of Poured Over. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Miwa Messer and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): Dream State by Eric Puchner To the Lighthouse by Virginia Woolf Housekeeping by Marilynne Robinson Light Years by James Salter North Woods by Daniel Mason The End of Vandalism by Tom Drury Skylark by Dezső Kosztolányi Stoner by John Williams Mrs. Bridge by Evan S. Connell

    Sarah Chihaya on BIBLIOPHOBIA

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 15, 2025 50:25


    Bibliophobia by Sarah Chihaya reflects on the books that change the way we think about life and literature. Chihaya joins us to talk about these “Life Ruiner” books, the way we connect to stories at different points in our lives, the way our reading shapes us and more with Miwa Messer, host of Poured Over. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Miwa Messer and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): Bibliophobia by Sarah Chihaya The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison The Morningside by Téa Obreht Disorientation by Elaine Hsieh Chou Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery Slouching Towards Bethlehem by Joan Didion Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas by Hunter S. Thompson The Lover by Marguerite Duras A Man of Two Faces by Viet Thanh Nguyen Possession by A.S. Byatt Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison Midnight's Children by Salman Rushdie The Ferrante Letters by Sarah Chihaya The Days of Abandonment by Elena Ferrante My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante

    Eowyn Ivey on BLACK WOODS, BLUE SKY

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 13, 2025 37:25


    Black Woods, Blue Sky by Eowyn Ivey delves into the wilderness in this tender, bold and enchanting fable set in Alaska. Ivey joins us to talk about her personal connections to the setting, themes of community and family ties, the complexities of parenthood and more with guest host Allyson Gavaletz.   This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Allyson Gavaletz and mixed by Harry Liang.                      New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app.   Featured Books (Episode):  Black Woods, Blue Sky by Eowyn Ivey  The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey  Love Medicine by Louise Erdrich  David Copperfield by Charles Dickens  Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver  The Odyssey translated by Emily Wilson   Ulysses by James Joyce  The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain  James by Percival Everett 

    Alejandro Heredia on LOCA

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 11, 2025 42:10


    Loca by Alejandro Heredia is a stunning novel about identity, home, life and love that takes readers through one epic, life-changing year alongside two unforgettable protagonists. Heredia joins us to talk about his use of language in the book, his writing practice, his family connection to the story and more with Miwa Messer, host of Poured Over. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Miwa Messer and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): Loca by Alejandro Heredia White Teeth by Zadie Smith NW by Zadie Smith A Visitation of Spirits by Randall Kenan

    spirits loca heredia randall kenan
    Jennifer Finney Boylan on CLEAVAGE

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 8, 2025 41:16


    Cleavage by Jennifer Finney Boylan interrogates modern and relevant themes of gender and sexuality with writing that is both entertaining and educational. Boylan joins us to talk about her personal connections to the topic, influential authors, the importance of storytelling and more with Miwa Messer, host of Poured Over. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Miwa Messer and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): Cleavage by Jennifer Finney Boylan Mad Honey by Jennifer Finney Boylan and Jodi Picoult Good Boy by Jennifer Finney Boylan She's Not There by Jennifer Finney Boylan Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel Creation Lake by Rachel Kushner Intermezzo by Sally Rooney All Fours by Miranda July Skippy Dies by Paul Murray Ulysses by James Joyce A Place of Greater Safety by Hilary Mantel Clear by Carys Davies James by Percival Everett Colored Television by Danzy Senna North Woods by Daniel Mason The Demon of Unrest by Erik Larson

    Geraldine Brooks on MEMORIAL DAYS

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 6, 2025 46:40


    Memorial Days by Geraldine Brooks explores what it means to truly grieve — a moving account of what it is to love, to lose and to heal. Brooks joins us to talk about her relationship with her late husband, Tony Horwitz, how writing this book helped process her grief, themes of isolation, growth and more with Miwa Messer, host of Poured Over. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Miwa Messer and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): Memorial Days by Geraldine Brooks Horse by Geraldine Brooks Nine Parts of Desire by Geraldine Brooks Who is Government? by Michael Lewis

    Allegra Goodman on ISOLA

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 4, 2025 43:51


    Isola by Allegra Goodman is a story of courage and isolation and a sweeping tale of companionship against all odds. Goodman joins us to talk about the real historical events that inspired the novel, her meticulous research process, her unique experience writing this book and more with cohost Jenna Seery. We end this episode with TBR Top Off book recommendations from Jamie and Donald.  This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Jenna Seery and mixed by Harry Liang.                      New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app.   Featured Books (Episode):  Isola by Allegra Goodman  Sam by Allegra Goodman  Robinson Crusoe by Daniel Defoe  Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel  Gulliver's Travels by Jonathan Swift  Kidnapped by Robert Louis Stevenson  Featured Books (TBR Top Off):  Burial Rite by Hannah Kent  Whale Fall by Elizabeth O'Connor 

    Charmaine Wilkerson on GOOD DIRT

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 1, 2025 46:53


    Good Dirt by Charmaine Wilkerson takes us from New England to West Africa and France on a quest to uncover the secrets of the past and build a new future. Wilkerson joins us to talk about the history in the novel, the importance of storytelling, balancing heavy tones in her writing and more with guest host Brenda Allison.   This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Brenda Allison and mixed by Harry Liang.                      New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app.  Featured Books (Episode):  Good Dirt by Charmaine Wilkerson  Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson  Orbital by Samantha Harvey  James by Percival Everett  The Grand Paloma Resort by Cleyvis Natera  Neruda on the Park by Cleyvis Nater

    Adrienne Young on A SEA OF UNSPOKEN THINGS

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 30, 2025 39:10


    A Sea of Unspoken Things by Adrienne Young is a breathtaking journey of grief, love and history about a woman that loses her twin brother in a freak accident. Young joins us to talk about her descriptive and atmospheric style, what it's like to write for both adults and young people, creating the connection between twin characters and more with guest host, Allyson Gavaletz. This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Allyson Gavaletz and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): A Sea of Unspoken Things by Adrienne Young The Unmaking of June Farrow by Adrienne Young Wrong Place, Wrong Time by Gillian McAllister

    Imani Perry on BLACK IN BLUES

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 28, 2025 41:31


    In Black in Blues: How a Color Tells the Story of My People Imani Perry studies the color blue in all its history and hues in this remarkable analysis. From West Africa to the American South, Black in Blues examines the color's relation to Blackness and culture. Perry joins us to talk about the symbolic history of the color blue, her research process, the role of storytelling in identity and more with Miwa Messer, host of Poured Over.  This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Miwa Messer and mixed by Harry Liang.                     New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app. Featured Books (Episode): Black in Blues by Imani Perry South to America by Imani Perry Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison A Little Devil in America by Hanif Abdurraqib Cannibal by Safiya Sinclair The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison Native Son by Richard Wright Black Boy by Richard Wright Looking For Lorraine by Imani Perry

    Revisiting Colson Whitehead on THE NICKEL BOYS

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 25, 2025 33:32


    The Nickel Boys, the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Colson Whitehead, is a story of injustice and ultimately hope about two young men at a Florida reform school. We love this interview with Miwa Messer and Whitehead from the novel's release in 2019.    This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Miwa Messer and mixed by Harry Liang.                      New episodes land Tuesdays and Thursdays (with occasional Saturdays) here and on your favorite podcast app.  Featured Books (Episode):  The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead  

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