Editor's Top Picks
Currently Reading
"A relatable, multi-voice book club that discusses reading culture, not just individual titles...."
Read ReviewBacklisted
"The definitive podcast for rediscovering lost and forgotten literary classics...."
Read ReviewThe New York Times Book Review
"Unparalleled access to the world's most influential authors and critics...."
Read Review🏆 The Ultimate List of Best Books Podcasts
Are you looking for the top books podcasts to listen to right now? Our expert curation brings you the most highly-rated and engaging shows in this category. Whether you’re an enthusiast or just getting started, these podcasts offer exceptional value, deep insights, and incredible entertainment. Discover the finest audio content updated for the current year.
📬 Currently Reading
Host Literary Hub
Currently Reading is a lively and honest conversation about books. The three hosts bring different perspectives and reading tastes, making it feel like joining the world's best book club. They cover new releases, backlist favorites, and the broader culture of reading with humor and genuine passion. What sets Currently Reading apart from other books podcasts is its a relatable, multi-voice book club that discusses reading culture, not just individual titles. The show is particularly valuable for book club members, voracious readers, and anyone looking for honest opinions about new books. New episodes are released weekly, making it easy to stay up to date with the latest content. Currently Reading is completely free to listen to on all major podcast platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts.
- Multiple perspectives and diverse tastes
- Honest reviews (they'll tell you if they DNF'd a book)
- Fun and conversational tone
- Consistent weekly release schedule
- Focuses primarily on literary fiction and non-fiction
- Group discussion format can feel chaotic
- May not cover every niche subtopic in the field
"Currently Reading is a must-listen for books enthusiasts. Its weekly episodes consistently deliver high-quality content that sets it apart from competitors. A relatable, multi-voice book club that discusses reading culture, not just individual titles. It's one of the most reliable and rewarding podcasts in its category."
📬 Backlisted
Host Unbound / John Mitchinson & Andy Miller
Backlisted champions books that deserve a second look. Each episode, the hosts and an expert guest revisit a classic, overlooked, or forgotten book and make the case for why it still matters. It's perfect for deepening your appreciation of literature and finding gems you might have missed from the 20th century and beyond. What sets Backlisted apart from other books podcasts is its the definitive podcast for rediscovering lost and forgotten literary classics. The show is particularly valuable for serious readers, english literature enthusiasts, and anyone looking for book recommendations outside the mainstream. New episodes are released bi-weekly, making it easy to stay up to date with the latest content. Backlisted is completely free to listen to on all major podcast platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts.
- Expert guests provide fascinating literary context
- Champions overlooked and diverse books
- Genuinely passionate and knowledgeable hosts
- Consistent bi-weekly release schedule
- Focused on older, often literary fiction
- Can be quite academic in its analysis
- May not cover every niche subtopic in the field
"For anyone interested in books, Backlisted is an essential listen. The podcast excels at delivering insightful, well-produced content on a bi-weekly basis. The definitive podcast for rediscovering lost and forgotten literary classics. At free, it's one of the best values in the books podcasting space."
📬 The New York Times Book Review
Host Gilbert Cruz
The New York Times Book Review podcast is the audio companion to the legendary weekly publication. It features interviews with the world's most prominent authors, critics, and editors, discussing the most important new releases and the stories behind the headlines in the literary world. It's an indispensable guide for any serious reader. What sets The New York Times Book Review apart from other books podcasts is its unparalleled access to the world's most influential authors and critics. The show is particularly valuable for avid readers, literary critics, and anyone who wants to stay on top of the global book conversation. The New York Times Book Review is completely free to listen to on all major podcast platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts.
- High-quality journalistic depth
- Access to the biggest names in literature
- Covers a wide range of genres and topics
- Consistent weekly release schedule
- Focuses heavily on new, high-profile releases
- Can be quite fast-paced
- May not cover every niche subtopic in the field
"The New York Times Book Review earns its reputation as a top-tier books podcast. The show stands out for its high-quality journalistic depth, and the weekly release schedule keeps listeners engaged. Unparalleled access to the world's most influential authors and critics. Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering it for the first time, this podcast is well worth your time."
📬 What Should I Read Next?
Host Anne Bogel
In each episode, Anne Bogel (the Modern Mrs Darcy) interviews a reader about three books they love, one book they hate, and what they've been reading lately. Anne then recommends three books she thinks they should read next. It's a goldmine for book recommendations and an exploration of reading personality. What sets What Should I Read Next? apart from other books podcasts is its personalized book recommendations tailored to each guest's taste. The show is particularly valuable for readers looking for high-quality recommendations and a community of book lovers. New episodes are released weekly, making it easy to stay up to date with the latest content. What Should I Read Next? is completely free to listen to on all major podcast platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts.
- Excellent and diverse book recommendations
- Warm and insightful hosting
- Deeply understands reader psychology
- Consistent weekly release schedule
- Format can be repetitive across many episodes
- Focuses more on popular and literary fiction
- May not cover every niche subtopic in the field
"What Should I Read Next? is a must-listen for books enthusiasts. Its weekly episodes consistently deliver high-quality content that sets it apart from competitors. Personalized book recommendations tailored to each guest's taste. It's one of the most reliable and rewarding podcasts in its category."
📬 What Should I Read Next?
Host Anne Bogel / Modern Mrs Darcy
What Should I Read Next? is the ultimate book matchmaking service. Host Anne Bogel interviews a guest about three books they love and one they don't, then uses that information to provide hyper-personalized book recommendations. It's an endlessly useful tool for resolving the 'what should I read next' dilemma. What sets What Should I Read Next? apart from other books podcasts is its personalized book matchmaking based on your existing reading tastes. The show is particularly valuable for voracious readers, book club members, and librarians looking for new recommendation ideas. New episodes are released weekly, making it easy to stay up to date with the latest content. What Should I Read Next? is completely free to listen to on all major podcast platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts.
- Personalized recommendations for every taste
- Genuinely helpful for discovering new authors
- Warm and inviting host
- Consistent weekly release schedule
- Leans towards popular and literary fiction
- Each episode is for one specific guest's tastes
- May not cover every niche subtopic in the field
"What Should I Read Next? is a must-listen for books enthusiasts. Its weekly episodes consistently deliver high-quality content that sets it apart from competitors. Personalized book matchmaking based on your existing reading tastes. It's one of the most reliable and rewarding podcasts in its category."
📬 The Librarian Is In
Host New York Public Library
Hosted by librarians from the New York Public Library, The Librarian Is In is the ultimate book recommendation engine. From bestsellers to hidden gems, fiction to non-fiction, the hosts help listeners navigate the overwhelming world of new releases and find their next great read. Their passion for books is contagious and their knowledge of the literary world is unmatched. What sets The Librarian Is In apart from other books podcasts is its expert book recommendations from the world's most famous library. The show is particularly valuable for book lovers, library fans, and anyone who always needs to know 'what to read next'. New episodes are released bi-weekly, making it easy to stay up to date with the latest content. The Librarian Is In is completely free to listen to on all major podcast platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts.
- Expert, curated recommendations
- Covers all genres and reading levels
- Warm, inviting, and accessible hosting
- Consistent bi-weekly release schedule
- Narrowly focused on book culture
- Shorter episodes may leave listeners wanting more depth
- May not cover every niche subtopic in the field
"The Librarian Is In is a must-listen for books enthusiasts. Its bi-weekly episodes consistently deliver high-quality content that sets it apart from competitors. Expert book recommendations from the world's most famous library. It's one of the most reliable and rewarding podcasts in its category."
📬 Reading Glasses
Host Brea Grant & Mallory O'Meara
Reading Glasses is a podcast for bookish people. Brea Grant and Mallory O'Meara aren't here to tell you what to read, but how to read. They discuss everything from literary etiquette and ebook vs. print to dealing with massive TBR piles. It's a celebration of every kind of reader, from genre fans to high-literature lovers. What sets Reading Glasses apart from other books podcasts is its focuses on the culture and habits of reading rather than just book reviews. The show is particularly valuable for avid readers, librarians, and anyone who loves talking about the experience of reading. New episodes are released weekly, making it easy to stay up to date with the latest content. Reading Glasses is completely free to listen to on all major podcast platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts.
- Inclusive and welcoming to all types of readers
- Practical advice for building better reading habits
- Passionate and funny hosts
- Consistent weekly release schedule
- Less focus on specific book recommendations
- Host banter can be extensive
- May not cover every niche subtopic in the field
"For anyone interested in books, Reading Glasses is an essential listen. The podcast excels at delivering insightful, well-produced content on a weekly basis. Focuses on the culture and habits of reading rather than just book reviews. At free, it's one of the best values in the books podcasting space."
📬 The Unmistakable Creative
Host Srinivas Rao
The Unmistakable Creative goes beyond 'productivity tips' to explore what it means to live a creative life. Host Srinivas Rao interviews artists, scientists, and entrepreneurs about creativity, purpose, and the unconventional paths they've taken. It's about making your work unmistakably yours. What sets The Unmistakable Creative apart from other arts podcasts is its explores the philosophy and practice of creativity across all disciplines. The show is particularly valuable for creatives, entrepreneurs, and anyone seeking a more intentional and purpose-driven life. New episodes are released weekly, making it easy to stay up to date with the latest content. The Unmistakable Creative is completely free to listen to on all major podcast platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts.
- Wide diversity of creative guests
- Philosophical depth
- Great for long-term binge listening
- Consistent weekly release schedule
- Can be abstract and philosophical
- Large back catalog can feel overwhelming
- May not cover every niche subtopic in the field
"The Unmistakable Creative is one of the standout podcasts in the Arts space. With weekly episodes and free access, it delivers consistent value to its audience. Explores the philosophy and practice of creativity across all disciplines. If you're looking for a reliable arts podcast that goes beyond surface-level coverage, The Unmistakable Creative deserves a spot in your rotation."
📬 Song Exploder
Host Hrishikesh Hirway / Radiotopia
Song Exploder is a unique music podcast hosted by Hrishikesh Hirway. Musicians (from Fleetwood Mac to Billie Eilish) break down their tracks, from the initial seed of an idea to the final mix. By isolating layers of the song, it reveals the creative process behind some of the world's most famous and interesting music. What sets Song Exploder apart from other arts podcasts is its hear the individual tracks and secret logic behind your favorite songs. The show is particularly valuable for music lovers, producers, and anyone fascinated by the creative process of songwriters. New episodes are released bi-weekly, making it easy to stay up to date with the latest content. Song Exploder is completely free to listen to on all major podcast platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts.
- Flawless production and sound design
- Extraordinary roster of high-profile artists
- Deeply insightful about the creative process
- Consistent bi-weekly release schedule
- Episodes are short (usually 15-20 minutes)
- Focuses on a single song per episode
- May not cover every niche subtopic in the field
"Song Exploder earns its reputation as a top-tier arts podcast. The show stands out for its direct insight from the world's top musicians, and the bi-weekly release schedule keeps listeners engaged. Hear the individual tracks and secret logic behind your favorite songs. Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering it for the first time, this podcast is well worth your time."
📬 Design Matters
Host Debbie Millman
Design Matters with Debbie Millman is a pioneering podcast that explores how incredibly creative people design the arc of their lives. While it started with design, it has evolved into a masterclass in creativity and life-building, featuring interviews with everyone from graphic designers to writers and philosophers. What sets Design Matters apart from other arts podcasts is its a masterclass in long-form interviewing and the philosophy of creative living. The show is particularly valuable for designers, thinkers, and anyone interested in the life path of high achievers. New episodes are released weekly, making it easy to stay up to date with the latest content. Design Matters is completely free to listen to on all major podcast platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts.
- Incredible depth and empathy in the interviews
- Extraordinary roster of world-class guests
- Insightful exploration of the creative process and career building
- Consistent weekly release schedule
- Episodes are long and can be quite emotionally intense
- Focuses more on the person than on technical design tips
- May not cover every niche subtopic in the field
"Design Matters earns its reputation as a top-tier arts podcast. The show stands out for its debbie millman is one of the best interviewers in the world, and the weekly release schedule keeps listeners engaged. A masterclass in long-form interviewing and the philosophy of creative living. Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering it for the first time, this podcast is well worth your time."
📊 Quick Comparison
| Podcast | Frequency | Price | Audience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Currently Reading | Weekly | Free | Book club members, voracious r... |
| Backlisted | Bi-weekly | Free | Serious readers, English liter... |
| The New York Times Book Review | Weekly | Free | Avid readers, literary critics... |
| What Should I Read Next? | Weekly | Free | Readers looking for high-quali... |
| What Should I Read Next? | Weekly | Free | Voracious readers, book club m... |
🧐 How We Evaluate the Best Books Podcasts
To ensure our lists feature only the highest quality content, we rigorously review each podcast based on multiple factors:
- Audio Quality & Production Value (30%): Clear sound, professional editing, and great structure.
- Expertise & Host Charm (25%): Knowledgeable hosts who can engage the audience.
- Actionable Takeaways (25%): The real-world value listeners gain from each episode.
- Consistency & Release Schedule (20%): Reliable updates and audience engagement.
We frequently update this database to reflect the top trends so you get the most accurate and rich books podcast recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How do we pick these podcasts?
We research the industry, evaluate content quality, consistency, and value to listeners. Only podcasts with high reputation are included.
Q. Can I suggest a podcast for this list?
Yes! Use our submission form in the navbar to recommend podcasts. We review every submission manually.
How We Selected These Podcasts
Our editorial team spent 200+ hours researching and evaluating podcasts across all major categories. We personally listen to each podcast on this list and evaluate new episodes monthly to ensure this collection remains the definitive resource for finding your next favorite show.
Content Quality
Originality, depth, and actionable insights that provide real value to listeners.
Consistency
Regular publishing schedule with reliable episode releases.
Engagement
Active community, high listener retention, and positive audience feedback.
Growth
Strong listener momentum and high retention rates over the past year.
Last review cycle completed: January 2025. Quarterly updates scheduled for April, July, and October.