Book Lounge by Libby
Book Lounge by Libby is a podcast about books, reading, writing, and publishing. Host Joe Skelley leads candid conversations with authors and publishing professionals, along with reading recommendations. The show is presented by Libby, the library app, and features two 10-week seasons each year. Episodes include Monday publishing discussions, Thursday book pairings, and monthly Book Release Radar specials, with 1–3 episodes per month between seasons.
Episodes
Josh Malerman on Other Mommy, Incidents Around the House & Fear
What happens when the thing keeping you up at night becomes a movie? 👀
Horror author Josh Malerman is in the Book Lounge, and we're getting into the deliciously terrifying world of Incidents Around the House and its film adaptation, Other Mommy.
From the inspiration behind one of modern horror's creepiest stories to the creative process that brings nightmares to life, Josh joins Joe
Ancient Stories, Modern Readers: Retelling Mythology with Madeline Miller & Nikita Gill
What happens when ancient myths meet modern perspectives? The stories we thought we knew get a whole new life.
This week on Book Lounge by Libby, Joe sits down with bestselling author Madeline Miller and poet and author Nikita Gill to explore the art of retelling mythology and ancient stories for modern readers. From reimagining legendary figures to finding new meaning in centuries-old tale
Adventure Reads That Keep You Up All Night
Adventure isn’t dead. It’s just waiting for you on the next page.
Host Joe Skelley is joined by Amy Allen Clark (@momadvice) and creator Joe Zawada (@joezawadareads) to keep the adventure conversation going with a stack of adventure stories that bring the danger, drama, twists and absolutely zero respect for your bedtime.
From high stakes journeys to impossible odds and the kind of b
Witchlings: Celebrating the Series Finale with Claribel A. Ortega
The Witchlings series has reached its magical finale, and we’re celebrating with the author herself!
In this bonus episode of Book Lounge by Libby, host Joe Skelley sits down with Claribel A. Ortega to look back at the Witchlings series as a whole, from its magical world and unforgettable characters to friendship, identity, growing up and all the twists and turns along the way.
With
Are Adventure Stories Dead? The Genre That Refuses to Die
Is the classic adventure story dead, or has it simply gotten a serious makeover?
From treasure hunts and lost worlds to quests, monsters and impossible missions, adventure has always been one of the biggest reading pleasures around. But what happens when the genre collides with modern sci fi, fantasy and the wildest corners of contemporary storytelling?
Host Joe Skelley is joined by
Book Club Certified: When Readers Make a Book Blow Up
What happens when readers get REALLY into a book? Sometimes… everyone starts reading it.
In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, host Joe Skelley is joined by authors whose books found huge audiences through book clubs, BookTok, Bookstagram and online reading communities. We’re talking about the very real power of readers to turn a great book into a full-blown phenomenon and what it’s like
October 2026 Book Picks: Reads to Haunt Your TBR
October is here, and our TBR is looking positively haunted. 👻 Joe is joined by his coworker Nahomy to talk about the new books coming out in October 2026, from creepy haunted houses and witchy fantasy to vampires, horror graphic novels, dark mysteries and stories that will have you sleeping with the lights on.
Whether you're looking for your next spooky horror read, a magical fantasy advent
The Secrets to a Great Book Club (According to People Who Run Them)
What actually makes a book club GOOD? And how do you get people to come back month after month without turning it into homework?
This week on Book Lounge by Libby, we're going behind the scenes of the book club. Joe is joined by Amy Allen Clark of Book Gang Podcast and book club, Dave McNally, Adult Services Supervisor at Cuyahoga County Public Library, and Meara of (@mearaisreading) t
Librarians Spill the Tea: Wild Patron Stories, Book Hot Takes & Library Secrets
What REALLY happens behind the reference desk? On this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, host Joe Skelley is joined by Becky Cameron and Kate Merlene from Cuyahoga County Public Library and Morgan Schultz from Lutheran West School for a very candid, very fun conversation about life as a librarian.
We're spilling the librarian tea on wild patron questions, unexpected library requests, book r
Blind Date with a (Library) Book
What happens when you let your local library surprise you? For the Season 4 premiere of Book Lounge by Libby, we're celebrating Library Card Sign-Up Month with a little literary mystery, a few unexpected projects and a whole lot of library love.
Joe is joined by Meara (@mearaisreading) for a Blind Date with a (Library) Book! We each head to our local libraries with three missions: get a boo
Jeneva Rose Is Ready to Scare You
What scares you? For bestselling author Jeneva Rose, the answer might be… literally anything. 👀
Jeneva joins Book Lounge by Libby to talk about her new horror collection, Sometimes I Scare Myself, a trio of twisted stories filled with séances gone wrong, creepy houses, cursed objects and the kind of decisions that make you want to yell at a character through the page.
We’re getting i
Reimagining Virginia Woolf: Adapting Night & Day with Justine Waddell
Virginia Woolf has inspired generations of readers, but what happens when you take one of her novels and bring it to a modern audience?
This week, Joe is joined by Justine Waddell, writer and producer of Virginia Woolf’s Night & Day, to talk about her love of Woolf, the process of adapting a classic novel and the changes that have to be made when bringing an older story into the present da
September 2026 Book Releases We Can’t Wait to Read
September is bringing some SERIOUS TBR temptation. This week, Joe is joined by Madison (@simon.says.read) to dive into the September 2026 book releases they’re most excited to read.
From gothic romantasy and fantasy to thrillers, romance, historical fiction and spooky season reads, there are way too many new books fighting for a spot on the TBR.
Plus, Joe and Madison reveal the books they
We Read the Wildest Reviews of Books We Love
What happens when you take the Beach Too Sandy, Water Too Wet approach to books? Absolute chaos.
Joe is joined by Meara to dig through reviews of books they love and discover what happens when readers have opinions. From hilarious hot takes to reviews that make absolutely no sense, this episode is full of laughs, nonsense and some truly unforgettable book commentary.
Want us to do th
August 2026 Book Releases We're Adding to Our TBRs
August 2026 books are here, and Joe is joined by Bre (@locd_booktician_) to share the new releases they're most excited to add to their TBRs. Covering everything from horror, thrillers, romance, fantasy, literary fiction, and beyond, they're highlighting some of the month's biggest releases alongside a few books that deserve more attention.
As always, the recommendations
Plot Twists & Playlists: Audiobooks, Romance Reads & 2026 Book Talk with Destinee
What's better than talking about great books? Talking about all the great books.
This week, Joe is joined by romance novel matchmaker, bookseller, and creator Destinee for a delightfully bookish conversation that bounces around bookish things everyone can't stop talking about.
Grab your headphones, your library card, and maybe a notebook—you'll 
Summerween 2026: The Best Horror Books to Kick Off Spooky Season Early
Summer is heating up... so naturally it's time for ghosts, monsters, haunted camps, cursed lakes, and things that go bump in the night.
Joe is joined by Bre to celebrate Summerween 2026, the growing tradition of bringing spooky season into the middle of summer. Whether horror readers are looking for gothic classics, unsettling literary horror, creepy middle grade adventures, camp
How President Lincoln Would Celebrate America 250 (and the books he'd read)
As the United States prepares to commemorate America 250, how can we celebrate the nation's history while also making room for reflection, honesty, and meaningful conversation?
This week on Book Lounge by Libby, Cameron Walpole, Associate Director of Interpretation and Public Programs, and Callie Hawkins, Executive Director of President Lincoln's Cottage in Washington, DC, join the show to explo
July 2026 Book Releases: The New Books We Can't Wait to Read
A new month means a new stack of books to obsess over.
In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by the wonderful Emma to chat about the July 2026 book releases they're most excited to add to their TBRs. From buzzy fiction and page-turning mysteries to heartfelt romances and unforgettable literary reads, they're sharing the upcoming titles that have already captured their attention.
Too Hot to Handle: Steamy Romance Books for Your Summer TBR
The temperature is rising, and so is the romance stack. In the Season 3 finale of Book Lounge by Libby, romance novel matchmaker, experienced bookseller, and bookish creator Destinee (@yourromancedestinee) joins the lounge to share the steamy romance books that deserve a spot on your summer TBR.
From slow burns that leave readers desperate for more, to romances packed with chemistry, banter, lon
The Art of the Swoon: Ann Liang & BK Borison on Romance, Chemistry & Desire
Summer reading is getting steamy! Today, Joe is joined by bestselling romance authors Ann Liang and BK Borison for a conversation about creating unforgettable love stories, building electric chemistry, writing yearning and intimacy, and why romance continues to captivate readers around the world.
The conversation also briefly features romance author Sara Cate, who joined at the start of the epis
Audiobook Month Special: The Best Audiobooks to Add to Your Listening List
June is Audiobook Month, and we're celebrating one of our favorite ways to experience stories.
This week Joe is joined by Amy Allen Clark, host of the BOOK GANG podcast, to talk about the audiobooks they've been loving lately. From unforgettable narrations to stories that are impossible to pause, they're sharing recent audiobook recommendations that deserve a spot on your listening list.
This
The Magic of Audiobooks with Award-Winning Narrators Saskia Maarleveld & Michael Crouch
June is Audiobook Month, and we're celebrating with two of the most beloved voices in the industry.
This week on Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by acclaimed audiobook narrators Saskia Maarleveld and Michael Crouch for a behind-the-scenes conversation about the art of bringing stories to life through audio.
From developing character voices to recording emotional scenes, Saskia and Michael
Your Ultimate Pride Month 2026 Reading List
What should you read this Pride Month?
In this Pride Month episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by Jananie K. Velu to share book recommendations that celebrate queer stories, queer joy, and the many ways LGBTQIA+ people find connection, community, and hope.
As they discuss the books they're recommending this June, the conversation expands beyond reading lists to explore what it means
Finding Hope, Queer Joy & the Courage to Be Seen
Pride Month is a celebration, but it's also a reminder of the journeys so many LGBTQ+ people take to find acceptance, belonging, and hope.
In this special Pride Month episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by authors Kody Keplinger, Ryan Collett, and TJ Alexander for honest, heartfelt conversations about identity, community and the power of seeing yourself reflected in stories.
In the
June 2026 Book Releases You NEED on Your TBR
June is STACKED with incredible new releases, and this month’s Book Picks episode is here to help you build your summer TBR. Joe is joined by Kieran, founder of the Queer Liberation Library, to talk about the most exciting June 2026 book releases across genres — from buzzy literary fiction and swoony romances to twisty thrillers, queer stories, fantasy adventures, and everything in between.
Alon
Mystery & Thriller Book Recommendations with @CrimebytheBook
If your TBR is looking a little too well-behaved, consider this your official invitation to cause some chaos.
Joe is joined by Abby from @crimebythebook to dive headfirst into a stack of mystery and thriller recommendations that are twisty, chilling, and completely unputdownable. From locked-room tension and atmospheric horror-leaning suspense to darkly clever whodunits and cult-favorite thrille
The Anatomy of a Twist
What makes readers gasp out loud at the end of a thriller? How do authors plant clues without giving everything away? And why do some plot twists stay with us forever?
This week on Book Lounge, Joe is joined by three powerhouse thriller writers — Clare Mackintosh, Jo Piazza, and Lisa Gardner — for an exciting conversation all about The Anatomy of a Twist. Together, they unpack the art of suspens
Books That Feel Like Falling Into Another World
This week on Book Lounge, Joe is joined by Meara for a celebration of all things adventure as they talk about adult books that perfectly capture the feeling of reading The Magic Tree House. Whether it’s characters being pulled into another time and place, epic quests across strange worlds, hidden mysteries, or stories filled with wonder and discovery, these are the books that recreate that unforge
Inside The Magic Tree House with Mary Pope Osborne
This week, Joe sits down with legendary children’s author Mary Pope Osborne to celebrate the legacy of the Magic Tree House books and the generations of readers who grew up with Jack and Annie’s adventures.
Together, they discuss the original spark that inspired the series, how the personalities of Jack and Annie developed over time and the early days of writing for young readers during the rise
Mental Health Awareness Month Reading Recommendations with Jananie K. Velu
Continuing our celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month episode, Joe is joined by Jananie K. Velu to share some of their favorite books that center mental health, healing, growth, and emotional honesty.
Together, they talk about the stories that stay with us, the comfort books can provide during difficult seasons and the powerful role reading can play in helping people feel understood and le
Reading as Healing: Mental Health, Self-Care & the Power of Libraries
This week, we’re reflecting on Mental Health Awareness Month. Today, Joe sits down with two mental health professionals to explore the powerful connection between reading, emotional well-being, and community.
Split into two thoughtful segments, this episode invites listeners to reflect on how books, libraries, and small daily habits can support healing, growth, and a sense of stability in an oft
Your AAPI Month TBR Starts Here | Must-Read Books with Jananie K. Velu
In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by Jananie K. Velu of thisstoryaintover to celebrate AAPI Month with a stack of incredible Asian lit you’ll want to add to your TBR immediately.
Together, they dive into a wide range of must-read books highlighting stories that span genres, perspectives, and lived experiences. From deeply personal narratives to sweeping, unforgettable storyt
Lisa See & Zoulfa Katouh on Heritage, Identity & Storytelling
In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe celebrates Asian Heritage Month by spotlighting the global impact of Asian voices in storytelling. Joined by bestselling authors Lisa See and Zoulfa Katouh, the conversation explores how heritage, identity, and lived experience shape the stories we read and why those stories resonate far beyond any one place or perspective.
From the influence of cultu
Borrowed for the Cover: Books That Hooked Us at First Glance
Be honest, how many books have you borrowed purely because the cover looked amazing?
This week on Book Lounge, Joe is joined by Bre for a very honest, slightly chaotic, and deeply relatable conversation about judging books by their covers. Before diving into our recommendations, we get into what Bre loves in a cover design.
We also talk about the covers that live rent-free in for Bre, and how
May 2026’s Hottest New Books (And Our Immediate Adds)
Your TBR is about to get longer.
In this episode of Book Lounge, Joe is joined by Rachel to break down the most exciting book releases coming in May 2026 by sharing what they’re adding to their to-be-read piles. From buzzy debuts and fan-favorite authors to under-the-radar titles you’ll want to grab early, they’re sorting through the chaos of new releases so you don’t have to.
Expect strong op
Book Cover Design Secrets (From the People Who Make Them)
In this episode of Book Lounge, Joe goes behind the scenes of one of the most important—and most misunderstood—parts of publishing: book cover design.
In the first segment, Erin Fitzsimmons (Sourcebooks) and Karina Granda (Hachette Book Group) join Joe to talk about how they got their start in design, what their creative process looks like today, and how book covers have evolved alongside trends
Must-Read Historical Fiction for Your TBR Right Now
Looking for your next great historical fiction read? Joe is joined by Amy Allen Clark, host of the Book Gang Podcast, to share standout historical fiction recommendations to add to your TBR.
From immersive, character-driven stories to sweeping narratives that bring the past to life, this episode highlights books that will stick with you long after the final page. Amy brings her expertise in disc
Inside the World of Historical Fiction with Christina Baker Kline, Heather Webb & Lauren Tarshis
Christina Baker Kline, Heather Webb and Lauren Tarshis join Joe for a wide-ranging conversation on the enduring appeal of historical fiction and why readers keep coming back for stories rooted in the past.
From immersive research to emotional storytelling, they explore how historical fiction brings real moments to life while still leaving room for imagination. The conversation also dives into th
Debut Book Recommendations You’ll Be Obsessed With (2022–2026)
Looking for your next favorite author before they blow up? This episode is for you.
Joe is joined by Amy Allen Clark of the Book Gang Podcast, an expert in spotlighting debut authors, for a conversation that starts with a little podcast inside baseball. From prepping interviews to working with first-time authors, they dig into what makes debut conversations so special.
Then, it’s all about the
Dazzling Debuts: The Real Story Behind First Novels
Welcome to Season 3 of Book Lounge by Libby! We’re kicking things off with a celebration of debut authors; the moment when years of writing, revising, and hoping finally turn into a book on shelves.
Joe is joined by Casey Scieszka, Katie Bernet, and Leia Ham to talk about what it really takes to publish a first novel. From early drafts and rejections to finding an agent, navigating edits, and se
Thrift Gremlin Energy: Books, Libraries & Chaos with Kathleen Illustrated
Kathleen, known online as KathleenIllustrated, joins Joe for a cozy, creativity-filled conversation. As an illustrator, thrifter, and passionate reader, Kathleen shares the early reading moments that shaped her, her deep love of libraries and Libby, and how storytelling influences her creative life.
The episode also explores her passion for thrifting and sustainability, and the joy of discoverin
Into the Blue & the Secrets of Publishing with Emma Brodie
What really happens behind the scenes in publishing—and how does an editor make the leap to author?
In this bonus episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe sits down with Emma Brodie—Executive Editor at Clarkson Potter and author of Into the Blue—for a conversation that blends industry insight with creative inspiration.
In the first half, Emma pulls back the curtain on her career in publishing, sha
Building Belonging Through Books
What started as a search for representation turned into a movement.
In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by Dessa Carroll, founder of Brown Babies n' Books, a Brooklyn-based nonprofit dedicated to creating culturally rooted literacy experiences for families.
Together, they explore:
The inspiration behind launching Brown Babies n’ Books
What it takes to build a
Spring Into Reading: April 2026 Book Picks
April is here, and with it comes a fresh wave of incredible new reads! 🌸
In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by returning guest (and friend) Emma to talk through the April 2026 book releases they’re most excited to add to their TBR.
Together, they explore a wide range of upcoming titles—from highly anticipated bestsellers to under-the-radar gems—perfect for spring reading.
Lost Hollywood Satire & Audiobook Magic with Daniel Henning
In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by a true multi-hyphenate talent—acclaimed audiobook narrator and producer Daniel Henning, whose voice you’ve almost certainly heard bringing stories to life.
Now, Daniel is stepping into the publishing world with his bold new imprint, Starshells of Madness, dedicated to reviving forgotten, unconventional, and culturally significant works. A
Meara's Best Witchy Books to Read 🔮 Cozy, Magical & Must-Read Witch Books
Witchy books have completely cast a spell on readers—and in this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by Meara to explore the magic behind the genre.
From cozy magical stories to darker tales of witchcraft and power, Meara shares how she first fell in love with witchy reads and why the genre keeps pulling readers back for more. Meara shares her hallmarks of a great witchy book: beloved
March 2026 Book Releases We’re Adding to Our TBR
March is bringing the heat 🔥
In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by Amy Allen Clark of the Book Gang Podcast to talk about the March 2026 book releases they cannot wait to read.
From buzzy debuts to powerhouse authors returning with new stories, we’re breaking down the titles climbing to the top of our TBR piles. Whether you love literary fiction, thrillers, romance, or genr
Inside One’s Company: Obsession, Isolation, and Talking with Ashley Hutson
On this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, we’re trying something a little different—and we’re very excited about it. Joe is joined by Amy Allen Clark from the Book Gang podcast to dive deep into One’s Company by Ashley Hutson, a book Amy has been completely obsessed with.
We start with a breakdown of the book (mostly spoiler-free), unpacking what worked, what lingered, and why One’s Company get
Becoming a Reader as an Adult
Not everyone grows up a reader—and that’s okay.
In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe talks with his friend Sam about what it’s like when reading finally works for you. They dig into unlearning what reading is “supposed” to look like, finding joy without pressure, and how discovering books later in life can quietly change how you see yourself.
Along the way, Sam shares how becoming a re
February 2026 Book Releases We’re Obsessed With
New month, new books, and a very full TBR. 📖✨
In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by Meara to dive into the most exciting books releasing in February 2026. From buzzy new novels to under-the-radar gems, we’re breaking down what’s catching our attention, what we’re most hyped to read, and which releases are moving straight to the top of our TBRs.
If you love tracking upcoming
Mood Reading & Our Winter Reading Vibes - DNF Energy & Cozy Season Picks
Winter is a vibe—and so is the way we read during it.
In this episode, Joe is joined by Cece and Meara to talk all things winter reading vibes, from how mood reading works for us to whether TBRs ever stand a chance. We get honest about DNFing books (when we quit, why we quit, and how we make peace with it) and then wrap things up with book recommendations that feel just right for the colder mont
2026 Book Release Radar: The new books we can’t wait to read
New year, new books, and SO many reasons to freak out (in the best way).
In this bonus episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by Jananie K. Velu and Meara to kick off 2026 with a full-on Book Release Radar—highlighting the upcoming titles they’re most excited to read this year.
From buzzy new releases to books that already feel like future favorites, they're sharing what’s climbing
January 2026 Book Picks: New Year, New TBRs
As we head into the holiday season, we’re already looking ahead—because nothing pairs better with cocoa and cozy time off than planning your next year’s TBR 🎄📚
For our January 2026 Book Picks (and the final Book Lounge episode of 2025!), I'm joined by Madison to break down the new releases we cannot wait to snag in the new year. These are the books we’re placing holds and adding to notify me tag
Our Favorite Reads of 2025
We're wrapping up 2025 with a big, bookish bow! In this year-end celebration, Joe is joined by Carmen, Cece, Jananie K. Velu, Kayla, and Meara as everyone brings two of their favorite reads of the entire year. From unforgettable characters to gasp-worthy plots, these are the books that rose straight to the top of our 2025 lists.
Whether you're building your 2026 TBR or reliving your favorite re
Festive Fiction: Talking Holiday Reads for Cozy Winter Nights
Season 2 is wrapping up with a bow! In this festive finale of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe gathers holiday-lit icons Alexandra Benedict, Jenny Bayliss, Maisha Oso, and Matthew Norman for a lively conversation about writing wintery stories across genres—from heartfelt romance to twisty mystery to big-hearted contemporary fiction.
Then in Segment 2, our guest hosts slide down the chimney with their b
Page to Screen Magic: Authors on Adaptations
Buckle up, book lovers — we’re going full Hollywood this week in an extended edition of Book Lounge! Joe kicks things off with the iconic Louis Sachar, who spills delightful behind-the-scenes tea about writing the Holes screenplay, hanging out on set, and the surreal experience of getting residual checks for his cameo.
Then Danielle Valentine pops in to chat about Delicate Condition and its evo
Food for Thought: Holiday Feasts, Mamrie Hart, and the Books We’re Thankful For
Comedian, writer, and foodie extraordinaire Mamrie Hart joins Joe in the Book Lounge to talk about her new cookbook All I Think About Is Food, her must-haves for holiday hosting, and why laughter really is the secret ingredient.
Then, Carmen, Kevin Norman, and Meara pull up a chair to share the books they’re most thankful for this holiday season. A feast of laughs, stories, and reads you’ll want
Science Fiction Double Feature: Exploring New Worlds through Books
It’s time to go beyond the stars! In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by Alex Segura, Daniel H. Wilson, and Ken Liu for a cosmic conversation on the ever-evolving world of science fiction. They dive into the genre’s growth, the art of writing in shared universes, and their own galaxy-sized reading recs. Then, Cece and Meara join for segment two with stellar sci-fi book recommend
Library Love Letters
This episode is our ode to the library—the beating heart of every book lover’s story. In segment one, Joe is joined by authors (and librarians, both current and former!) Terah Shelton Harris, Eva Jurczyk, PJ Nelson, and Jenn McKinlay to talk about how their time in libraries shaped their writing and storytelling.
Then, in segment two, Joe and our guest hosts share book recommendations by librari
Witch Please: Cozy & Witchy Reads for Fall
Witch please! In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, we’re leaning all the way into fall vibes with cozy and witchy reads that’ll keep you warm as the weather cools.
In segment one, Joe is joined by Claribel A. Ortega, Liz Montague, HB Akumiah, and Travis Baldree for a fireside chat about all things cozy fantasy, witchy worlds, and why we can’t get enough of stories that feel like a soft blank
Haunted Pages: A Halloween Book Lounge Special
It’s a monster-mash of an episode! We’re going big for spooky season with horror favorites, eerie insights, and enough book recommendations to haunt your TBR straight through Halloween.
In this king-sized candy bar of a Halloween special, Joe is joined by horror icons Rachel Harrison and Ryan La Sala to chat about how the horror space has evolved, what sets YA apart from Adult horror, and why re
Beyond the Label: Stories of Disability & Awareness
In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, we’re going Beyond the Label to explore stories of disability, neurodivergence, and chronic illness — both on and off the page.
In Segment 1, Joe is joined by Marie Myung-Ok Lee, who opens up about her experiences as a mother to a child with disabilities. She reflects on the fears, challenges, and moments of triumph that have shaped her perspective as bot
Back to School, Back to Books: Comfort Reads for Kids (and their grown-ups)
It’s back-to-school season, which means new routines, new books, and maybe even a little extra stress for kids (and the adults who love them). To help ease the transition, we’re diving into comfort reads for Middle Grade and YA readers.
In this episode, Joe is joined by the incredible Rex Ogle, author of heartfelt and vulnerable stories for young readers. Rex opens up about his writing process,
Finding Inspiration Again: Breaking out of Reading Ruts & Writing Slumps
Season 2 kicks off with a deep dive into those all-too-familiar reading ruts and writing slumps. In this episode, we explore how to find inspiration again—both on the page and in life.
In Segment 1, join me with Neal Shusterman, New York Times bestselling author of over thirty award-winning books for children, teens, and adults, as he shares his strategies for breaking out of creative ruts and s
Live from ALA: Book Lounge by Libby on the Pop-Top Stage
We’re bringing you something extra special this week—a live recording from the ALA 2025 Pop-Top Stage! Join Joe in conversation with:
Henry H. Neff - website
Mary Roach - website
Michelle Jabès-Corpora - website
Olivia Worley - website
Rex Ogle - website
Sasha Bonét - website
Terah Shelton Harris - website
as they talk books, libraries, and the joy of c
Reading Andy Warhol with Daniel Henning
In this special bonus episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe sits down with Daniel Henning to dive deep into the writings and ideas of Andy Warhol. From The Philosophy of Andy Warhol to Popism: The Warhol Sixties to a: a novel, this conversation explores the iconic artist’s impact on art, culture, and how we see the world today.
Whether you’re a longtime Warhol fan or new to his work, you’ll walk
Hispanic Heritage Month: A Conversation on Writing, Identity, and Celebration
As Season 1 of Book Lounge by Libby comes to a close, we’re getting you ready to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with thoughtful conversations featuring Ann Dávila Cardinal, Isabel Cañas, Cleyvis Natera, Isabel Ibañez, and Tamara Yajía. 🌎 Together, they explore how heritage and identity shape their writing and the stories they share with the world.
In Segment 2, Bre, Carmen, and Cece return
Romantasy Rising: The Explosion of a Genre and What’s Next
Romantasy is everywhere right now — and we’re diving deep into the magic, monsters, and swoon-worthy romance fueling its meteoric rise.
In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe sits down with three of the biggest names in the genre — Jennifer L. Armentrout, Olivia Rose Darling, and Katee Robert — to talk about how romantasy took over bookshelves, why it resonates with readers, and where it’s
Narratives of Legacy: Indigenous Writers on History, Identity, and Survival
In this special episode of Book Lounge by Libby, we’re joined by celebrated Indigenous authors Angeline Boulley (Firekeeper’s Daughter, Warrior Girl Unearthed) and Carole Lindstrom (We Are Water Protectors, Autumn Peltier, Water Warrior) for a powerful conversation on legacy, language, and literature.
Together, we discuss what it means to write from and for their communities, the responsibility
The Battle Over Books: Publishers, Libraries & Banned Authors Speak Out
Book bans are rising at an alarming rate—but librarians, authors, and publishers are fighting back. In this powerful episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by librarian and intellectual freedom advocate Amanda Jones, bestselling author Kalynn Bayron (This Poison Heart), veteran librarian and censorship expert Pat R. Scales, and Skip Dye, SVP at Penguin Random House. Together, they dive int
Panels with Purpose: Creators on the Power of Graphic Novels
In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, we explore the powerful world of graphic novels. In our first segment, Joe is joined by a brilliant panel of creators—mother-daughter duo Hallie Bateman & Suzy Hopkins, Maia Kobabe, and Mattie Lubchansky—to discuss how graphic novels have evolved, the importance of accessibility, the unique creative process behind visual storytelling, and the lasting impact
Sun, Sand & Stories: Authors on Crafting the Perfect Summer Read
What makes a book the perfect beach read? In this sunny episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by authors Clémence Michallon, Jonathan Parks-Ramage, Megan Miranda, and Sara Hamdan for a lively conversation about the art of crafting a summer page-turner. From thrillers to romances and everything in between, they unpack what “beach read” really means, how they keep readers hooked, and—crucia
Summer Reading Magic: Authors on Writing for Young Readers
What makes a summer read unforgettable for kids and teens? In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by authors Jamie Sumner, Kelsey Impicciche, and Julie Soto for a sunny conversation all about Summer Reading Magic.
They explore what defines a great summer book across different age groups, how they tailor their writing to young readers, and the power of stories to inspire, comfort
Who’s Behind Your Next Favorite Read? Meet Our Guest Hosts!
In this episode of Book Lounge, we're handing the mic to the readers behind the recs! Meet our guest hosts who'll be joining us all season long to share their themed picks!
To get to know everyone, they'll be answering our version of the New BookTuber Tag - diving into their reading tastes, love of libraries and vibe essentials - so you can get to know the people helping you grow your TBR.
Wheth
From Beach Bags to Bedside Tables: July’s Must-Read Picks
It’s a bonus episode, book lovers! Joe is joined by friend and fellow bookworm Emma to chat about the July 2025 releases they're most excited to add to their TBR piles.
Whether you’re craving rom-coms, thrillers, fantasy, or something a little spooky, here's a stack of reads to keep your summer sizzling.
From campus drama and romantic tension to magical greenhouses, haunted tunnels, and dragon
Pride in Publishing: How Queer Stories Shape Readers
Happy Pride 🌈💖! In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, we’re celebrating LGBTQ+ voices and the power of queer storytelling.
In the first half of the show, Joe sits down for heartfelt, honest conversations with authors Andrew Joseph White, Juno Dawson, Susie Dumond, and Emily Austin. Each shares their unique experience as a queer writer—what inspires them, the challenges they face, and the joy
Behind the Mic: Narrators, Authors, and Producers on the Magic of Audiobooks
Welcome to the very first episode of Book Lounge by Libby! We’re kicking things off with an ode to audiobooks—the voices, the stories, and the behind-the-scenes magic that makes them so special.
First up, our host Joe chats with thriller author Carter Wilson, narrators Allyson Ryan and Patrick Zeller, and audiobook producers Catherin Bucaria and Almeda Beynon from Sourcebooks Audio to dig into w
Welcome to Book Lounge by Libby — A New Chapter Begins
Say hello to Book Lounge by Libby, the new name for the podcast formerly known as Professional Book Nerds!
In this intro, host Joe Skelley shares updates on the rebrand, what’s staying the same, and what new vibes you can expect in this next chapter. Plus, get a sneak peek at our first season - episode 1 is dropping next week, featuring a celebration of all things audiobooks.
Pull up a chair—i
Hot Reads, Cool Vibes: June 2025 Book Picks
Joe is joined by his colleague and friend Nahomy for a fresh stack of June 2025 book picks—perfect for summer reading season. Whether you’re soaking up the sun or curled up in the AC, they’ve got something for every kind of reader.
Nahomy shares queer coming-of-age tales, romantic comedies, twisty thrillers, and empowering debuts, while Joe's picks run the gamut from eerie horror to thoughtful s
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