Professional Book Nerds

It's fall, y'all

In this episode of The Professional Book Nerds, Joe sits down with bestselling author Alex Aster to dive into the magic of SKYSHADE (out November 12 from Amulet Books), the thrilling third installment in the Lightlark Saga. Alex shares her extraordinary journey, from querying her first book at just 12 years old to becoming a relentless force in the writing world. Discover the secrets behind Skyshade, the challenges Alex faced along the way, and how her unwavering determination has shaped her career. Whether you’re a die-hard Lightlark fan or an aspiring writer, this conversation will leave you inspired and eager for more! Other Alex Aster titles: The Lightlark Saga Lightlark Nightbane Skyshade Summer in the City (publishing March 2025) Emblem Island Series Curse of the Night Witch Curse of the Forgotten City Check out Alex Aster online! Visit her website: https://www.asterverse.com/ or follow her on Instagram and TikTok Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libb

For those of you who love a thriller, a mystery or a bit of horror year-round, this one is for you. Today Joe is joined by Kara (@thebookkaravan) to talk about twisty, claustrophobic thrillers that will take you from fall into winter. They'll take you from Halloween through the dark nights of the new year! Titles mentioned in this episode: Kara’s Titles:   The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides  The Only One Left by Riley Sager  Cover Story by Susan Rigetti  The Wife Between Us by Greer Hendricks & Sarah Pekkanen  Luckiest Girl Alive by Jessica Knoll  The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena  Joe’s Titles:  Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone by Benjamin Stevenson  Liar, Dreamer, Thief by Maria Dong  Extended Stay by Juan Martinez  Bridge by Lauren Beukes  I Will Find You by Harlan Coben  Mister Magic by Kiersten White  Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bo

Happy Halloween

On this episode, we've got spooky stories for your nerves! Get ready for Halloween with these horror thrills! From classic slashers to supernatural creeps, Joe, Claire and Kristin have a recommendation for you! Titles mentioned in this episode: Claire’s Titles:   We Used to Live Here by Marcus Kliewer  The White Guy Dies First edited by Terry J. Benton-Walker  Guillotine by Delilah S. Dawson  Midnight on Beacon Street by Emily Ruth Verona  The Bog Wife by Kay Chronister  Sacrificial Animals by Kailee Pedersen   Shout out to Graphic Novels: Loving, Ohio by Matthew Erman, The Low Low Woods by Carmen Maria Machado, Wait Till Helen Comes by Mary Downing Hahn, Over My Dead Body by Sweeney Boo Kristin’s Titles:  Pay the Piper by George A. Romero & Daniel Kraus  Incidents Around the House by Josh Malerman  So Thirsty by Rachel Harrison  Never Whistle at Night Edited by Shane Hawk  The Pale House Devil by Richard Kadrey  This Cursed House by Del Sandeen  Just a quick shout out: The Fisherma

In this episode of Professional Book Nerds, we’re diving into the world of Jeff Kinney, the mastermind behind the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series! Join us as we chat about his latest release, Diary of a Wimpy Kid 19: Hot Mess (out October 22)! Get ready to laugh and learn as Jeff shares the inspiration behind his new book and the misadventures of Greg Heffley. We’ll also discuss the challenges of navigating the chaotic world of childhood, and how he turns those “hot mess” moments into relatable tales that resonate with readers of all ages. So, grab your snacks, and settle in for a fun-filled episode that promises to be anything but boring. You won't want to miss this opportunity to hear from the author who has kept kids—and adults—laughing for years. It’s time to get your diaries ready for a new chapter! Check out more from Jeff Kinney online... you can visit the Wimpy Kid website or follow on Instagram. Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop the

Join Joe as he chats with Kieran Hickey - his friend and founder of the Queer Liberation Library! Kieran shares his inspiration behind creating the queer digital library, how you can become a member of the library, and all the ways you can support QLL. They also talk about the importance of Queer History Month and recommend a few gay books. You can follow QLL on Instagram! You can learn more about QLL here: https://www.queerliberationlibrary.org/ find resources and access info here: https://www.queerliberationlibrary.org/resources become a member here: https://www.queerliberationlibrary.org/members and, donate here: https://givebutter.com/J9nhcW Titles mentioned in this episode: Paradise Rot by Jenny Hval Amberlough by Lara Elena Donnelly The Women's House of Detention by Hugh Ryan Blackouts by Justin Torres Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Li

Joe is joined by two of his favorite people, author TJ Klune and audiobook narrator Daniel Henning to talk about their work together on Somewhere Beyond the Sea (out now from Tor and Macmillan audio)! TJ shares how he channeled love, joy and rage into this book, why it's important to create safe spaces, and what you can expect from his writing in the future. Daniel shares his amazing process, work on creating new characters, channeling our existing favorites, and what it felt like to be on the NYT bestseller list for this audiobook! A huge thank you to TJ and Daniel for joining me today. You can follow TJ on Instagram here, and Daniel on Instagram here! Listen to my first episode with TJ and Daniel here! Check out the Cerulean Chronicles: The House in the Cerulean Sea (ebook / audiobook) Somewhere Beyond the Sea (ebook / audiobook) Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish conten

On this special episode, we’re featuring a conversation from our friends at Life in Seven Songs, the new podcast from The San Francisco Standard that dives deep into the minds of some of today’s greatest visionaries. Named a top new show by both Apple Podcasts and The Guardian, Life in Seven Songs asks one simple question: What songs tell your life story? In each episode, extraordinary people share the music and moments that have shaped their lives. Each episode, host Sophie Bearman sits down with guests like London Breed, the first Black woman to serve as Mayor of San Francisco, D'Wayne Wiggins, the record producer who discovered Beyoncé and helped artists like Zendaya become superstars; and Jony Ive, the creative genius behind Apple's iPhone. In this episode, Sophie speaks with Daniel Handler—better known as Lemony Snicket, the writer of A Series of Unfortunate Events. In the episode, Sophie and Daniel discuss his various works, and unpack why his novels often depict terrible things happening to people.

Emma chats with Lynn Painter about returning to the story of Wes and Liz for Nothing Like the Movies! They also discuss how many versions of this story Lynn wrote, why Lynn doesn't like sequels, go-to coffee orders, the joy of meeting readers, reality tv obsessions, reading recommendations, and what the spirit of a "rom-com" means. Books mentioned in this episode: Nothing Like the Movies by Lynn Painter Better Than the Movies by Lynn Painter Betting on You by Lynn Painter The Do-Over by Lynn Painter The Wish Switch by Lynn Painter (middle grade debut!) Billy Summers by Stephen King Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today's episode on OverDrive.com or in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want

Join Joe for an enchanting conversation with Claribel A. Ortega as she delves into her latest book, Witchlings 3: House of Elephants (out 10/1 from Scholastic). Discover her writing process and the inspiration behind her captivating characters. Claribel shares insights into life on tour, the joys of connecting with readers, and her deep love for libraries as vital spaces for creativity and community. Whether you're a fan of her work or new to her magic, this episode is packed with inspiration and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the world of a beloved author! For more info on Claribel and her work visit her website & check out her Instagram. To find out what Witchlings coven you're in, go here! Check out the Witchlings Series: Witchlings The Golden Frog Games House of Elephants Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this

Emma says goodbye to the podcast and shares her favorite memories, plus some final book recs!  Books mentioned in this episode: Say You’ll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez Bluebird Day by Megan Tady   Lost and Lassoed by Lyla Sage  None of This is True by Lisa Jewell   The Queen of Fives by Alex Hay   Spark of the Everflame by Penn Cole  Cross My Heart by Megan Collins   Rose in Chains by Julie Soto   Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today's episode on OverDrive.com or in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Emma speaks to author Sarah A. Parker about her incredible first book in the Moonfall series, When the Moon Hatched. They also discuss Sarah's writing process, what motivates her main characters, worldbuilding, the power of the reader community, and so much more. Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today's episode on OverDrive.com or in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can follow the Professional Book Nerds on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @ProBookNerds. Want to reach out? Send an email to professionalbooknerds@overdrive.com.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us as we dive into some of our most anticipated book releases of October 2024! From gripping thrillers to heartwarming romances, we’re sharing our top picks that you won’t want to miss. Get ready to update your TBR with the hottest new titles that are sure to spark your interest. Tune in and discover your next favorite read! Titles mentioned in this episode: Interviews:   House of Elephants by Claribel A. Ortega  Nothing Like the Movies by Lynn Painter (Sequel to Better Than the Movies)  Somewhere Beyond the Sea by TJ Klune and Daniel Henning  Hot Mess by Jeff Kinney    Emma’s Picks:   The Last One at the Wedding by Jason Rekulak (October 8)   Best Hex Ever by Nadia El-Fassi   The Blue Hour by Paula Hawkins   Spectacular by Stephanie Garber  The Great When by Alan Moore  The House at Watch Hill by Karen Marie Moning  Heir by Sabaa Tahir   From Here to the Great Unknown by Lisa Marie Presley, Riley Keough  Libby Lost and Found by Stephanie Booth   Bloodguard by Cecy Robson 

In this episode, Joe is an absolute fangirl over two of his favorite podcasters. Joe chats with Christine Schiefer and Em Schulz, hosts of And That's Why We Drink, an award-winning comedy podcast, where the paranormal and true-crime meet. Em and Christine talk about their new book, A Haunted Road Atlas: NEXT STOP (out September 24), an amazing return to form following their first book, A Haunted Road Atlas. They talk about the inspiration behind their writing (and how different Em & Christine are in their processes), uncover some spine-tingling stories from their travels, and learn how they blend the paranormal and true-crime for their comedy gold. Buckle up - your next haunted road trip starts here! Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review and subs

Emma chats with one of her favorite authors of all time, Sarah Dessen. They discuss Sarah's writing career, the magic of libraries, the teenage years, book recommendations, and so much more. If you want to hear Emma live out some of her teenage dreams by asking her favorite author questions, listen to this delightful conversation. Books mentioned in this episode: Along for the Ride by Sarah Dessen The Rest of the Story by Sarah Dessen Just Listen by Sarah Dessen This Lullaby by Sarah Dessen Lock & Key by Sarah Dessen The Truth About Forever by Sarah Dessen Dreamland by Sarah Dessen That Summer by Sarah Dessen Someone Like You by Sarah Dessen Keeping the Moon by Sarah Dessen What Happened to Goodbye by Sarah Dessen Saint Anything by Sarah Dessen The Moon and More by Sarah Dessen Once and For All by Sarah Dessen Not Nothing by Gayle Forman Death at the Sign of the Rook by Kate Atkinson The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult Readers can sample

Read an Ebook Day is coming up on Sept. 18! Emma and Joe talk to some of their coworkers here at OverDrive to find out what book they’ll be reading. Share what you’re reading on social media with the hashtag #ebooklove and join the conversation. Learn more at www.readanebookday.com Team OverDrive always bring amazing book recommendations and this year is no exception. From romance to fantasy to literary fiction to YA to thrillers and beyond, there's a recommendation here for every kind of reader. Books mentioned in this episode: Midnight Rooms by Donyae Coles The Bridge Kingdom by Danielle L. Jensen A Fate Inked in Blood by Danielle L. Jensen A Curse Carved in Bone by Danielle L. Jensen We Could Be So Good by Cat Sebastian You Should Be So Lucky by Cat Sebastian Accidental Demons by Clare Edge The Dead Girls Club by Damien Angelica Walters The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafron Rhythm of War by Brandon Sanderson White Sand by Brandon Sanderson The Truth According to Ember by Dan

Inspired by his upcoming interview with the And That's Why We Drink podcast crew, Joe was joined by a few of his coworkers to share paranormal, crime and paranormal crime reads that you can dive into! Whether you like a cozy mystery, a crime novel, or a bit of horror, we have book recommendations for all! If you'd like to see Quinton's review of The 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle audiobook, check it out here. Titles mentioned in this episode: Claire’s Titles:   Hidden Pictures by Jason Rekulak  Shutter by Ramona Emerson  Sneaky Recommendation: Home Before Dark by Riley Sager  The Paranormal Ranger by Stanley Milford, Jr. Kelli’s Titles:   The Changeling by Victor LaValle  The Book of Cold Cases by Simone St. James (check out Joe’s interview: https://www.professionalbooknerds.com/simone-st-james-author-of-the-book-of-cold-cases/) The Merciless by Danielle Vega  Sneaky recommendation: Full Immersion – Gemma Amor  Quinton’s Titles:   Sneaky Recommendation: The Dresden Files by Jim Butcher;

Join us for an enlightening conversation with the beloved Al Roker as he opens up about his deep connection to books and libraries. In this exclusive interview, Al shares insights into his favorite reads, the inspiration behind his own books, and the pivotal role libraries have played in his life and career. From heartwarming anecdotes to his personal reading journey, this episode offers a unique glimpse into the man behind the screen and his lifelong passion for literature. Whether you’re a fan of Al Roker, a book enthusiast, or a library lover, this episode is a must-listen! Al's 2024 Books: Murder on Demand - Al Roker & Matt Costello Al Roker's Recipes to Live By - Al Roker with Courtney Roker Laga Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can shop these titles in OverDrive Marketplace. Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We hope you enjoy this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast. Be sure to rate, review an

Get ready to update your reading list! In this episode of 'September 2024 Book Buzz,' we dive into the hottest book releases hitting the shelves this month. From thrilling new novels to must-read non-fiction, we’ll cover the most anticipated titles you won’t want to miss. Tune in for a sneak peek at the books making waves this September and find your next great read! September Author interviews:   Al Roker  When the Moon Hatched by Sarah A. Parker  Haunted Road Atlas: NEXT STOP by Christine Schiefer and Em Schulz    Titles mentioned in this episode:   Emma’s Titles:  Shout out: So Thirsty by Rachel Harrison Fear the Flames by Olivia Rose Darling A Dark and Drowning Tide by Allison Saft  An Academy for Liars by Alexis Henderson  The Third Gilmore Girl by Kelly Bishop   Intermezzo by Sally Rooney  Bringer of Dust by J.M. Miro  The Hitchcock Hotel by Stephanie Wrobel  Rewitched by Lucy Jane Wood  Prime Time Romance by Kate Robb   The Book Swap by Tessa Bickers     Joe’s Titles:  Shou