Which books are going in your beach bag this summer? In today’s episode, we’re sharing a few great picks for your next vacation—or just your next relaxing afternoon in the sun. From fast-paced thrillers and twisty YA mysteries to a heartfelt rom-com set in the world of podcasting, we’ve got something for everyone. We're heading into a summer break for Unabridged soon and wanted to make sure we'd shared some fun picks for summer before we pause. For our beach bag picks, Ashley recommends Lucy Fol...
Jun 11, 2025•23 min•Season 8Ep. 295
Have you read Truly Devious by Maureen Johnson—or maybe even the whole series? In this May 2025 Book Club episode, we’re diving into the twisty world of Ellingham Academy with Stevie Bell and company. But first, we kick things off with a Bookish Check-In. Ashley’s reading Somewhere Beyond the Sea by TJ Klune (yes, the sequel to The House in the Cerulean Sea), and Jen shares her thoughts on Nnedi Okorafor’s Death of the Author. Then we dive into all things Truly Devious—what makes Stevie such a c...
May 28, 2025•36 min•Season 8Ep. 294
Have you watched the Heartstopper series or read the graphic novels by Alice Oseman? In this episode, we’re sharing a conversation that originally aired on Patreon all about the pilot episode of Heartstopper, based on Oseman’s beloved graphic novel series. Before we dive into the adaptation, we kick things off with a bookish check-in—Ashley shares about Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros, and Jen is rereading Song of Solomon by Toni Morrison. We wrap things up with a fun Lit Chat question about whethe...
May 14, 2025•35 min•Season 8Ep. 293
In this month’s Book Club episode, we’re discussing Solito by Javier Zamora, a powerful memoir that chronicles his journey as a nine year old traveling alone from El Salvador to the United States. With vivid detail and emotional clarity, Zamora recounts the two-month trek that took him across borders, through deserts, and into the hands of strangers—some kind, some dangerous—all with the hope of reuniting with his parents on the other side. We discuss the emotional weight of Zamora’s story, the ...
Apr 23, 2025•44 min•Season 8Ep. 292
Have you ever found that reading with a friend makes a book even better? In this episode, we (Jen and Ashley) dive into the joys of buddy reading, spotlighting some of our favorite young adult books we've read together through Unabridgedpod Buddy Reads—a community reading experience we host monthly on Instagram. We share how these reads have shaped our perspectives, helped us connect more deeply with the stories, and brought us closer to our reading community. From emotional reads like Darius th...
Apr 09, 2025•33 min•Season 8Ep. 291
How do you find your place when you feel stuck between worlds? In this episode, Jen and Ashley dive into Kareem Between by Shifa Saltagi Safadi, our March 2025 book club pick. This middle-grade novel in verse explores identity, belonging, and tough moral choices as Kareem navigates friendships, football, and family while feeling caught between cultures. We discuss our overall impressions, the book’s powerful themes, and some of the moments that stuck with us. Plus, we share book pairings that ex...
Mar 26, 2025•35 min•Season 8Ep. 290
Have you read Nella Larsen's Passing ( Bookshop.org | Libro.fm ), a brilliant classic written in 1929? Today, we're sharing our Patreon discussion of the film adaptation of this, which we both thoroughly enjoyed. We talk about the book and film and share our thoughts about the artistic choices. We end with a couple of very entertaining Lit Chat Game questions, so be sure to stick around for those! Visit the Unabridged website for our full show notes and links to the books mentioned in the episod...
Mar 12, 2025•40 min•Season 8Ep. 289
It’s book club time! This month, we’re diving into Two Wrongs Make a Right by Chloe Liese—a swoony, opposites-attract romance inspired by Much Ado About Nothing. Fake dating? Revenge plot? Emotional depth? We have thoughts. In this episode, Jen and I break down our overall impressions, what worked for us, and some standout quotes that stuck with us. We also share our book pairings for this one, including Act Your Age, Eve Brown by Talia Hibbert and Sonali Dev’s Austen retellings—because if you l...
Feb 26, 2025•37 min•Season 8Ep. 288
Love is in the air! In our annual February episode, we’re back with some romance recommendations just in time for Valentine’s (or Galentine’s!) season. We’re sharing books that have captured our hearts recently, from star-crossed lovers to unconventional storytelling. But first, we kick things off with our latest reads, including Matt Haig’s The Life Impossible and Jennifer Croft’s The Extinction of Irena Rey—both of which bring unique narrative structures and compelling protagonists to the tabl...
Feb 12, 2025•20 min•Season 8Ep. 287
What does it mean to explore identity, legacy, and the complexities of family through a literary lens? For our January book club episode of Unabridged, join us as we discuss Percival Everett’s James. This inventive retelling of Mark Twain's Adventures of Huckleberry Finn reimagines the story from Jim’s perspective, giving voice to a character often overshadowed in the original. Packed with humor, grief, and rich reflection, Everett’s novel invites readers to explore themes of race, agency, and s...
Jan 29, 2025•52 min•Season 8Ep. 286
Happy New Year! In this episode of Unabridged, we're diving into our 2025 reading challenges and reflecting on the highs and lows of our 2024 goals. Join us as we share our experiences with various reading challenges—what worked, what didn’t, and the lessons we’re carrying forward. We're also introducing our 2025 Unabridgedpod Reading Challenge . We'd love for you to join us! Whether you’re new to reading challenges or a seasoned pro, this episode offers inspiration and insight to shape your rea...
Jan 15, 2025•24 min•Season 8Ep. 285
As we approach winter break, we wanted to share a re-release of a book club episode about a seasonal novel we loved discussing. Looking for a fun, illuminating holiday-centered read? Check out Sonya Lalli's A Holly Jolly Diwali ( Bookshop.org | Libro.fm ), our December Unabridged book club pick. In this episode, Jen and Ashley discuss thoughts about A Holly Jolly Diwali and share our book pairings including Jean Meltzer’s The Matzah Ball ( Bookshop.org | Libro.fm ) and Thrity Umrigar’s Honor ( B...
Dec 18, 2024•33 min•Season 8Ep. 284
For our December book club episode of Unabridged, join Ashley and Jen as we discuss Cynthia Hand's The Afterlife of Holly Chase. This modern young adult retelling of A Christmas Carol is packed with holiday spirit, humor, and poignant themes. Alongside our book discussion, Ashley and Jen also share our book pairings to complement your reading experience. Don’t miss this festive conversation! Join us on Patreon to have access to our back catalog of recordings and resources. Also, just a reminder ...
Dec 11, 2024•30 min•Season 8Ep. 283
In our November Book Club episode, Jen and Ashley are discussing Moon of the Crusted Snow by Waubgeshig Rice ( Bookshop.org | Libro.fm ). Join Ashley and Jen as we explore this haunting post-apocalyptic novel set in a remote Anishinaabe community and as we share our thoughts and pairing recommendations. As the outside world descends into chaos and communication cuts off, the community must grapple with the collapse of modern systems, rediscover traditional ways of life, and confront the arrival ...
Nov 27, 2024•41 min•Season 8Ep. 282
This month on Unabridged, we’re thrilled to share our Patreon discussion about Greta Gerwig’s Little Women with you all. In this beloved adaptation of Louisa May Alcott's classic novel, Gerwig brings a fresh, nuanced perspective to the March sisters' journeys, exploring themes of independence, ambition, and sisterhood in ways that resonate with today’s audiences. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Little Women or discovering Gerwig’s take for the first time, this episode is full of insights that w...
Nov 13, 2024•45 min•Season 8Ep. 281
In our October Book Club episode, the Unabridged Podcast is diving into Vampires of El Norte by Isabel Cañas ( Bookshop.org | Libro.fm ). Join Ashley and Jen as they discuss this gripping novel set in 1840s Mexico, where Nena, the daughter of a rancher, faces a sinister threat that lurks near her home, draining men of their blood. After being attacked by this nightmare nine years earlier, Nena is reunited with Néstor, her childhood sweetheart, as they are both pulled into the chaos of the U.S. i...
Oct 23, 2024•44 min•Season 8Ep. 280
Are you looking for some spooky reads to get you in the Halloween spirit? We’re back with our 2024 spooky recommendations, perfect for curling up with as the nights get longer. Whether you’re in the mood for dark fairy tales or eerie adventures, we’ve got two books that will give you chills! In this episode, Ashley recommends Melissa Albert’s The Hazel Wood ( Bookshop.org | Libro.fm ), a dark, atmospheric fairy tale with twists that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Jen suggests Katherine ...
Oct 09, 2024•31 min•Season 8Ep. 279
Have you ever wondered what family secrets are hiding just below the surface? In this episode, Jen and Ashley dive into Jas Hammonds' stunning debut, We Deserve Monuments. As seventeen-year-old Avery navigates the tension between her mother and her terminally ill grandmother, we unpack the complex relationships, hidden histories, and simmering truths that drive this story forward. We discuss how Avery’s search for answers shakes the foundation of her world. Join us as we explore this emotional a...
Sep 25, 2024•42 min•Ep. 278
We're back with Season 8 of Unabridged: A Book Podcast! Join us for a special "Get to Know the Hosts" episode where we catch up on their summer adventures, bookish highlights, and what’s been keeping them inspired. Whether you’re a long-time listener or new to the podcast, this episode offers a personal look at the people behind the mic. Tune in now to hear about their latest reads and what’s coming up next for Unabridged! We now have resources available for purchase on Patreon; these do not req...
Sep 11, 2024•33 min•Season 8Ep. 277
Are you looking for a cozy mystery with a lot of spilled tea? Be sure to join us as we read and discuss Jesse Q. Sutanto’s Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers ( Bookshop.org | Libro.fm ) as our June 2024 book club pick! This cozy mystery is a perfect summer read that will warm your heart despite the dead body at its center. We're continuing to add exclusive content over on Patreon. We appreciate your support so much, and it helps cover the cost of maintaining our podcast. If you haven't...
Jun 26, 2024•35 min•Season 7Ep. 276
Are you looking for quick reads to breeze through this summer? We're bringing you recommendations for short books to put on your TBR stack (our in your audiobook queue!) for this summer. If you're looking for more short book recommendations, be sure to check out our popular blog post, " 9 Great Short Books to Kick Off Your 2024 Reading Goals ." We're continuing to add exclusive content over on Patreon. In addition to monthly bonus episodes, we are now releasing more content on Patreon for subscr...
Jun 11, 2024•22 min•Season 7Ep. 275
Are you looking for a book written from an unusual perspective for the 2024 Unabridged Reading Challenge? Henry Hoke's Open Throat, a young adult novel in verse written from the perspective of a mountain lion living in LA, certainly meets the requirements for that category. This is a fast, compelling read that addresses many social issues from a unique perspective. Listen in to hear Ashley and Jen discuss Hoke's work as well as our pairings. We're continuing to add exclusive content over on Patr...
May 22, 2024•37 min•Season 7Ep. 274
How do you find book clubs and buddy reads to join? Jen and Ashley dig into the ways to get involved with book clubs (online and in real life) and buddy reads. If you're doing the 2024 Unabridged Reading Challenge with us, participating in a new book club or buddy read is a category on the list! Be sure to tune in to hear how to expand your reading with book club and buddy read opportunities. We're continuing to add exclusive content over on Patreon. In addition to monthly bonus episodes, we are...
May 08, 2024•33 min•Season 7Ep. 273
Have you read Nella Larsen's Passing ( Bookshop.org | Libro.fm ), a brilliant classic written in 1929? If you haven't read this stellar (short!) book, take time to do that and then join us for the discussion. We share our pairing recommendations as well, including Toni Morrison’s Sula ( Bookshop.org | Libro.fm ) and Brit Bennett’s The Vanishing Half ( Bookshop.org | Libro.fm ). We are continuing our Patreon drive and appreciate the support on there so much. Also, if you are participating in our ...
Apr 24, 2024•46 min•Season 7Ep. 272
Are you joining us for the 2024 Unabridged Podcast Reading Challenge ? For one of the categories, we're focusing on books that were published before 1950, so we wanted to share some recommendations for that category on today's episode. Listen in to hear us talk about Zora Neale Hurston’s Their Eyes Were Watching God ( Bookshop.org | Libro.fm ) and Jane Austen’s Persuasion ( Bookshop.org | Libro.fm ) as well as other things we're reading and doing these days. If you haven't joined us for the chal...
Apr 10, 2024•30 min•Season 7Ep. 271
Have you read a middle grade novel in verse recently? This month, we're reading Jasmine Warga’s Other Words for Home ( Bookshop.org | Libro.fm ), which is perfect for the Unabridged Reading Challenge 2024 category featuring a middle grade novel in verse. Jen and Ashley discuss the book club pick and share our pairings including Thanhhà Lai’s Inside Out and Back Again ( Bookshop.org | Libro.fm ), Hena Khan’s Amina’s Voice ( Bookshop.org | Libro.fm ) and Janika Oza’s A History of Burning ( Booksho...
Mar 27, 2024•33 min•Season 7Ep. 270
Are you looking for a great middle grade book that highlights equestrian sports and mental health challenges? Listen in to hear author Sarah Ward share about her debut middle grade novel Victory Gallop, which is available exclusively on Amazon. Jen and Ashley talk with Sarah about her inspiration for the novel and her passion for the writing she's doing. We also hear a little about some of the other projects Sarah has in the works as she prepares to share more writing soon! Listen in to learn mo...
Mar 13, 2024•39 min•Season 7Ep. 269
Are you looking for a teen coming-of-age love story set in the Australian bush? This month, we're discussing Gary Lonesborough's Ready When You Are ( Bookshop.org ), which is a YA romance that is perfect for our Unabridged Reading Challenge category Romance by an Indigenous Author. We also share our pairings including Alice Oseman’s Heartstopper ( Bookshop.org ) and Benjamin Alire Saenz’s Aristotle and Dante duology including Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe ( Bookshop.or...
Feb 28, 2024•35 min•Season 7Ep. 268
Are you looking for romance recommendations to read this February? We've got some new recommendations for you as we return with our annual Love is in the Air episode. We'll share about our picks for this year's edition, including Kacen Callender’s Stars in Your Eyes ( Bookshop.org | Libro.fm ) and Jacqueline Firkins’s The Predictable Heartbreaks of Imogen Finch ( Bookshop.org | Libro.fm ). We're continuing to add exclusive content over on Patreon. In addition to monthly bonus episodes, we are no...
Feb 14, 2024•29 min•Season 7Ep. 267
Jen and Ashley read and discuss Louisa May Alcott's classic novel, Little Women ( Bookshop.org | Libro.fm ). This one is perfect for the Unabridged Reading Challenge category about a classic written before 1950! Check out our reading challenge here . We also share our pairings including Hena Khan’s More to the Story ( Bookshop.org | Libro.fm ) and Geraldine Brooks’s March ( Bookshop.org | Libro.fm ). If you'd like to hear more about Little Women, be sure to tune in to hear our upcoming Patreon e...
Jan 24, 2024•36 min•Season 7Ep. 266
