The League of Extraordinary Readers

Welcome back to The League of Extraordinary Readers ! 📚✨ This week, we're discussing On Witness and Respair by Jesmyn Ward and exploring how grief, memory, and personal history shape literature and our understanding of ourselves. We also dive into fascinating conversations about time perception, CERN's recent scientific developments, neurodivergence, and the cyclical nature of history. I...

Welcome back to The League of Extraordinary Readers ! 📚✨ This week, we're catching up on our latest reads, tackling book challenges, sharing tips for reaching your reading goals, and reflecting on the books and life experiences shaping our reading journey. Whether you're looking for your next great read, motivation to finish your TBR, or thoughtful conversations about literature, this ep...

Welcome back to The League of Extraordinary Readers! 📚✨In this episode, we discuss the book publishing industry with Senior Marketing Director, Danielle Prielipp for the flagship imprint of Simon & Schuster (@SimonBooks). We get into influencer marketing, benefits of indie vs. traditional publishing, her journey into publishing, and more. Listen, subscribe, and join the conversation!🪩 Churc...

Welcome back to The League of Extraordinary Readers! 📚✨ In this episode, we dive into genre-bending fiction, book marketing, and why understanding an author's perspective can transform your reading experience. We also chat about recent travels, upcoming literary events, and the stories shaping our reading lives. If you love literary fiction, diverse books, thoughtful book discussions, and be...

Welcome back to The League of Extraordinary Readers — a literary podcast hosted by two Black women readers exploring books, storytelling, and culture through a diverse lens. 📚✨ In this episode, we sit down with author Deshawn Charles Winslow to discuss the art of writing compelling fiction, the differences between small-town and city storytelling, and how systemic issues shape character developm...

Welcome to The League of Extraordinary Readers — a literary podcast hosted by two Black women passionate about diverse storytelling, literary fiction, Black authors, and the books that shape culture. 📚✨ In this episode, we discuss the evolution of rappers and storytelling, the power of science fiction and horror in contemporary literature, and why reading diverse books matters more than ever. We...

🎙️ The League of Extraordinary Readers with Shelbey Monae & Jess is back with a lively, culture-forward conversation on books, publishing, and the evolving literary landscape. This week, we dive into urban fiction, representation, ARCs, and book marketing , unpacking how social media shapes reading trends and the book community. We also highlight recent book festivals, including the LA Book Fe...

🎙️ The League of Extraordinary Readers with Shelbey Monae & Jessica returns with a powerful conversation on books, culture, and representation. This week, we discuss recent reads, literary conferences, and the future of storytelling in media , diving into the importance of authentic adaptations of Black literature and the real impact of book banning on diversity in publishing. We also highligh...

🎙️ The League of Extraordinary Readers with Shelbey Monae & Jessica is back with another dynamic conversation at the intersection of books, culture, and the publishing industry. In this episode, we cover everything from surprising facts and reading slumps to book recommendations, Harlem Renaissance authors, and the realities of the publishing world . We dive into the business side of books—mar...

🎙️ The League of Extraordinary Readers dives into modern dating, relationships, and the cultural forces shaping how we connect today. In this episode, we unpack dating challenges, societal norms, and personal growth , blending honest stories with thoughtful conversations on literature, media, and representation. From reading slumps and book reviews to reality TV, romance, and evolving storytelling...

🎙️ The League of Extraordinary Readers sits down with Nikesha Elise Williams to discuss her debut novel, the power of storytelling, and the healing work of historical fiction. In this episode, Nikesha shares her publishing journey, her approach to writing generational trauma , and how spirituality, obedience, and creativity shape her work. We explore character development, identity, journalism, an...

🎙️ The League of Extraordinary Readers sits down with Kim Coleman Foote to discuss her powerful novel Coleman Hill and the role of storytelling in uncovering history, trauma, and resilience. In this episode, we explore intergenerational trauma, resistance in history, and multi-generational storytelling , while unpacking how family narratives shape identity and cultural memory. Kim shares the inspi...

🎙️ The League of Extraordinary Readers returns with a candid, wide-ranging conversation that blends books, culture, and current events. This week, we explore the latest trends in literature while unpacking everything from street planning and Tesla headlines to the realities of pop culture and reality TV. As always, we center the discussion in thoughtful analysis—connecting current events to storyt...

🎙️ The League of Extraordinary Readers continues its Black History Month conversations with an in-depth discussion of There Is Confusion by Jessie Redmon Fauset . In this episode, we reflect on our Black History Month collaboration, our evolving reading journeys, and even a few behind-the-scenes technical difficulties. We dive deep into themes of classism, societal expectations, ambition, and char...

🎙️ The League of Extraordinary Readers welcomes Irvin Weathersby Jr. to discuss his book An Open Contempt and the cultural forces that shape his storytelling. In this powerful conversation, Irvin reflects on how growing up in New Orleans influences his artistic lens, the role of family traditions in shaping identity, and the emotional impact of art within Black communities. The discussion also exp...

🎙️ The League of Extraordinary Readers sits down with Zelda Lockhart to explore healing, spirit, and generational truth through her novel Trinity . In this deeply reflective conversation, Zelda shares how storytelling becomes a spiritual practice—unpacking intergenerational trauma, Black family histories, vulnerability, and the power of rewriting (six times!) to fully honor spirit and healing. Fro...

🎙️ The League of Extraordinary Readers welcomes author Cleyvis Natera for a thoughtful conversation about her novel The Grand Paloma Resort and the larger forces shaping books and culture today. In this episode, Cleyvis discusses the role of mass market paperbacks in making literature more accessible, along with themes of tourism, classism, and power woven throughout her novel. The conversation ex...

🎙️ The League of Extraordinary Readers welcomes author Clarence A. Haynes to discuss his novel The Ghost of Gwendolyn Montgomery . In this episode, Shelbey Monae and Jessica talk with Clarence about genre-bending, balancing life and reading, and the creative process behind blending horror, history, and emotion. They explore how music and media influence storytelling, reader reactions to horror ele...

🎙️ The League of Extraordinary Readers returns with a rich conversation about books, culture, and intentional reading—just in time for Black History Month . In this episode, Jessica and Shelbey Monae break down their recent book hauls, February reading plans, and anticipated releases while reflecting on the power of literature to shape personal and cultural conversations. They discuss the importan...

🎙️ Welcome back to The League of Extraordinary Readers. In this episode, Jessica and Shelbey discuss a variety of topics ranging from Aisha Curry's ventures to their personal reading experiences. They delve into the intricacies of different books, share personal anecdotes, and explore themes of self-discovery and societal expectations. The conversation also touches on the impact of financial s...

🎙️ The League of Extraordinary Readers returns with a thoughtful, honest, and entertaining conversation about books, creativity, and intentional reading. In this episode, Jessica and Shelbey Monae reflect on current reads, neighborhood drama, holiday memories, and the realities of being readers and creators in a loud digital world. They dive into the works of bell hooks , including Art on My Mind...

We review Successful Failure by Kevin Fredericks and break down what makes self-help books actually work. Join us as we share what we’ve been reading, recommend new books, and explore the line between motivation, honesty, and real growth. A must-watch episode for readers who love self-help, Black literature, and smart book conversations. In this week’s episode of The League of Extraordinary Reader...

Learn how to critique books without letting your feelings take over — and whether authors should ever be in review spaces. Join us as we share what we’re reading and break down the  real rules  of book criticism, literary boundaries, and honest reviewing. A must-watch for readers, reviewers, and anyone who loves smart, nuanced book discussions. In this week’s episode of The League of Extraordinary...

Join  The League of Extraordinary Readers  as we share the books we’ve been reading this week and unpack the rise of AI in creativity and reading culture. Can AI change how we read and create? Tune in for a candid conversation about books, technology, and Black storytelling that will make you think. In this week’s episode of The League of Extraordinary Readers, we’re catching up on everything we’v...

Dive into The Farming of Bones by Edwidge Danticat with The League of Extraordinary Readers. We unpack themes of anti-intellectualism, literacy, and book culture through the lens of Black literature and community. In this week’s episode of The League of Extraordinary Readers, we dive into  The Farming of Bones by Edwidge Danticat. What starts as a literary discussion unfolds into a conversation ab...