Show notes
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 for an author to watch that happen.
How does a book become the one everyone is recommending? Why do some stories take off in book clubs? And what makes readers want to pass a book along to everyone they know?
Plus, we’re getting into the joy, chaos and occasionally unhinged energy of being part of a reading community.
Whether you’re a lifelong book club member, a solo reader who lives in the group chat or someone who has ever said “I HAVE to make you read this,” this one is for you.
If you're part of a book club, tell us about it! How big is your group? How often do you meet? What's the best book you've ever read together? And, perhaps most importantly, what's the book that nearly started a civil war?
Listen or watch now, and join the conversation with Book Lounge by Libby.
Looking for the video version of our show? Check out the Libby App YouTube channel!
Who’s in this episode:
Guest Books:
Some of Heather Morris' books:
Morgan Elizabeth's traditionally published book:
Some of Patti C. Henry's books:
Time stamps:
00:00:00 Title
00:00:19 Welcome and Intro
00:01:24 When did you realize your book had become a book club hit?
00:11:56 Did a book club change the trajectory of your book?
00:26:35 What are some of the events that stick out to you?
00:36:18 What impact does reader response have on your writing?
00:46:00 The parasocial lines between author and reader
00:57:09 Thank you, comment question and outro
Enjoying the show? Follow Book Lounge by Libby, leave a rating or review, and watch every episode on the Libby App YouTube channel. Find us on Libbylife.com/booklounge
Got a book recommendation, dream guest or just want to say hi? We'd love to hear from you at bookloungebylibby@overdrive.com.
Looking for Book Lounge merch? Visit Plot Threads.
Library friends: Add episodes of Book Lounge by Libby to your digital collection for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. You can also purchase the titles featured in today's episode in OverDrive Marketplace.
Browse our cumulative reading list for the season: https://marketplace.overdrive.com/Marketplace/OneCopyOneUserAndMeteredAccess/SuggestedList/41378
Today's featured books: https://marketplace.overdrive.com/Marketplace/OneCopyOneUserAndMeteredAccess/SuggestedList/41711
Happy Reading!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Our TOPPODCAST Picks 
Stay Connected
