With so many book podcasts available today, it’s hard to know which ones are actually worth your time. To narrow the field, we looked through Reddit discussions where passionate readers shared their favorites and identified the podcasts that kept coming up again and again.
Whether you’re looking for book recommendations, literary discussions, author interviews, or insights into the writing process, these are the podcasts Reddit readers kept coming back to.
- Backlisted
- Currently Reading
- The New York Times Book Review
- Longform
- Overdue
1. Backlisted
If there was one clear favorite in the Reddit discussion, it was Backlisted. Several users described it as “essential” and “fantastic,” while others praised it as one of the best ways to discover overlooked books and authors. The podcast shines a spotlight on older works that deserve renewed attention.
Each episode typically centers on a specific book, author, or literary theme. The hosts invite guests who bring expertise and enthusiasm to the discussion, creating conversations that feel intelligent without becoming academic or intimidating.
One of the reasons readers love Backlisted is that it consistently uncovers books that may have disappeared from bestseller lists but still have something valuable to offer modern audiences. Many listeners report adding dozens of titles to their reading lists after just a few episodes.
2. Currently Reading
Reddit users repeatedly described it as one of their favorites, with one commenter calling it their number-one book podcast. The show’s appeal comes largely from its friendly atmosphere. The conversations feel less like formal reviews and more like talking with well-read friends who are eager to share their latest discoveries.
Another strength of the podcast is its broad range of genres. Listeners can hear discussions about literary fiction, mysteries, memoirs, nonfiction, fantasy, and many other categories within the same episode.
Overall, it is easy to listen to, informative, and often introduces books that might otherwise fly under the radar.
3. The New York Times Book Review
Produced by The New York Times, the podcast covers new releases, publishing trends, major literary events, and interviews with authors. It was recommended multiple times in the Reddit discussion and remains one of the most respected book podcasts.
One reason for its popularity is the quality of its guests. The show regularly features novelists, journalists, critics, and other influential figures from the literary world. These interviews often provide valuable insight into the creative process behind successful books.
The podcast also helps listeners stay informed about important developments in publishing. Readers who enjoy following literary culture and keeping up with notable releases frequently find it especially useful.
Although it sometimes leans toward more serious literary discussions, the conversations remain accessible enough for general readers.
4. Longform
Longform is slightly different from most podcasts on this list. The podcast is no longer producing new episodes, but Reddit users keep recommending it.
Even though it is no longer active, Longform continues to earn recommendations because high-quality conversations rarely become outdated.
The show’s greatest strength is its interview style. Episodes often go far beyond standard promotional conversations and explore how writers develop ideas, conduct research, structure narratives, and build successful careers.
Many guests have written books, while others are known for long-form journalism in publications such as magazines and newspapers. The podcast appeals not only to readers but also to aspiring writers.
Because hundreds of episodes remain available, new listeners have years of content to explore. The archive serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in storytelling, nonfiction writing, and the creative process behind great books.
5. Overdue
The podcast was recommended by multiple Reddit users, several of whom highlighted the chemistry between the hosts. The basic concept is: one host reads a book and explains it to the other, leading to a discussion that combines literary commentary with humor.
This format allows the podcast to cover a wide variety of books, from beloved classics to contemporary bestsellers. Listeners often praise the hosts for making even challenging books feel approachable and engaging.
Many fans also enjoy the comedic side of the show. Reddit users specifically mentioned episodes covering books such as Twilight and Fifty Shades of Grey, which have become favorites because of the hosts’ humorous observations.
In conclusion
One reason book podcasts have become so popular is that they extend the reading experience beyond the final page. They introduce readers to books they might never have discovered, offer fresh perspectives on familiar titles, and provide insight into how authors think, write, and tell stories.
Many readers also enjoy the sense of community these podcasts create. Listening to passionate discussions about books can feel like joining an ongoing book club, even when reading alone.