The League of Extraordinary Readers

Latest Episodes:

Exploring The N Word and Richard Pryor ft. Elizabeth Stordeur Pryor Jul 21, 2026

Show notes

Welcome back to The League of Extraordinary Readers! 📚✨

In this episode, we're joined by Elizabeth Sturder-Pryor—professor, author, and daughter of comedy legend Richard Pryor—for a powerful conversation about race, history, family legacy, and the stories we inherit. We explore how memory and storytelling shape our understanding of cultural icons, Black history, and identity while discussing the importance of examining the full context behind the lives of influential figures.

If you love Black literature, memoirs, history, author interviews, and thought-provoking conversations about culture and identity, this episode is for you.

Listen, subscribe, and join the conversation!

🪩 Church Announcements:

July: The Summer Girlfriend by Kristina Forest (https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-summer-girlfriend-kristina-forest/de7184f5b281609d?ean=9780593956397)

Books Mentioned:

Perish

Bloodfire, Baby

The Color of Water

Sky Full of Elephants

Real Americans

Assemblies of Sorrow: Performances of Black Endangerment in the Jim Crow Era

I Saw Death Coming

Authors Mentioned:

TV:

💬 Follow The League of Extraordinary Readers:

📸🎧https://beacons.ai/tloer

📧Email Us: theleagueofreaderspod@gmail.com

📱Follow us on socials:

IG&Threads: @theleagueofreaders

Shelbey’s IG&Threads: @shelbeymonae

Jess’s IG&Threads: @literaturenoirclub

Elizabeth’s TikTok&IG: @pryorhistories

Discussing Grief and Loss with Dr. Shanda McManus Jul 14, 2026

Show notes

Welcome back to The League of Extraordinary Readers! 📚✨In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Shanda McManus to discuss grief, loss, healing, and the transformative power of storytelling. We dive into her debut memoir, Brother Epistles, exploring how writing through letters became a way to honor memory, navigate loss, and build community. Together, we discuss Black literature, memoir writing, authentic storytelling, and how books can help us process life's most difficult moments.If you enjoy memoirs, Black authors, thoughtful literary conversations, and stories centered on healing and personal growth, this is an episode you won't want to miss.Listen, subscribe, and join the conversation!

🪩 Church Announcements:July: The Summer Girlfriend by Kristina Forest (https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-summer-girlfriend-kristina-forest/de7184f5b281609d?ean=9780593956397) Books Mentioned:

I Know Why The Cage Bird Sings

The Color Purple

Heavy

Between The World and Me

The Mango Tree

The Loneliness Files

Blackouts

The Stone Yard Devotionals

Where The Dead Brides Gather

What It Means When A Man Falls From The Sky

Authors Mentioned:

TV:

Love IslandHouse of the Dragon

I Will Find You

💬 Follow The League of Extraordinary Readers:

📸🎧https://beacons.ai/tloer

📧Email Us: theleagueofreaderspod@gmail.com

📱Follow us on socials:

IG&Threads: @theleagueofreaders

Shelbey’s IG&Threads: @shelbeymonae

Jess’s IG&Threads: @literaturenoirclub

Jesmyn Ward Is In Her Own Lane Jul 07, 2026

Show notes

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. If you love Black literature, literary fiction, thought-provoking book discussions, and conversations that connect books to the world around us, this episode is for you.

Listen, subscribe, and join the conversation!

🪩 Church Announcements:

July: The Summer Girlfriend by Kristina Forest (https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-summer-girlfriend-kristina-forest/de7184f5b281609d?ean=9780593956397)

Books Mentioned:

Leave Your Mess At Home

Moonrise Over New Jessup

Theft

Fairfield Country

Daggermouth

The Company We Keep

The Broken Hearts Agency

On Witness and Respair

Authors Mentioned:

TV:

Love IslandHouse of the Dragon

I Will Find You

💬 Follow The League of Extraordinary Readers:

📸🎧https://beacons.ai/tloer

📧Email Us: theleagueofreaderspod@gmail.com

📱Follow us on socials:

IG&Threads: @theleagueofreaders

Shelbey’s IG&Threads: @shelbeymonae

Jess’s IG&Threads: @literaturenoirclub

N*ggas In Paris 75 Jun 30, 2026

Show notes

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 episode has something for you.

If you love literary fiction, Black authors, diverse books, reading podcasts, and honest book discussions, don't forget to subscribe and join the conversation!

Books Mentioned:

On Witness and Respair

Death to the Soccer God

Theft

Fairfield County

House of Margins

Womb City

August Lane

Paradise

Ghalen

Tasty

Resolution

Bloodfire, Baby

Mainline Mama

Leave Your Mess At Home

Greetings from the Baracoota Hotel

Authors Mentioned:

TV:

Love Island

House of the Dragon

I Will Find You

💬 Follow The League of Extraordinary Readers:

📸🎧https://beacons.ai/tloer

📧Email Us: theleagueofreaderspod@gmail.com

📱Follow us on socials:

IG&Threads: @theleagueofreaders

Shelbey’s IG&Threads: @shelbeymonae

Jess’s IG&Threads: @literaturenoirclub

Conversation About Book Publishing with Danielle Prielipp Jun 16, 2026

Show notes

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!🪩 Church Announcements:June: On Witness and Respair by: Jasmyn WardJess’s Reading Retreat: https://slljourneys.com/literature-noir-ghana-experience-2027 Brunchin’ With The Author: https://clyx.com/feed/019aa816-2b87-4b86-823c-be18bae574ff?target=eventTo keep up with Danielle and Simon & Schuster:Instagram/Threads/TikTok: @SimonBooksDanielle Instagram/Threads: @bookpubgal💬 Follow The League of Extraordinary Readers:📸 🎧 https://beacons.ai/tloer📧Email Us: theleagueofreaderspod@gmail.com📱Follow us on socials:IG&Threads: @theleagueofreadersShelbey’s IG&Threads: @shelbeymonaeJess’s IG&Threads: @literaturenoirclub

Grow, Guys! Jun 09, 2026

Show notes

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 behind-the-scenes conversations about the publishing industry, this episode is for you.

Listen, subscribe, and join the conversation!

🪩 Church Announcements:

June: On Witness and Respair by: Jasmyn Ward

Jess’s Reading Retreat: https://slljourneys.com/literature-noir-ghana-experience-2027

Brunchin’ With The Author: https://clyx.com/feed/019aa816-2b87-4b86-823c-be18bae574ff?target=event

Books Mentioned:

Ghalen

Blood Slaves

Dragon Blind

Big Girl Blitz

The Bone People

Aphrodite and the Duke

Verity and the Forbidden Suitor

Hather and the Prince

Bloodfire Baby

Leave Your Mess at Home

Mainline Mama

Moonrise Over Jessip

Juneteenth

Rabbit, Fox, Tar

On Morrison

Authors Mentioned:

Walter Mosley

Regina Black

Tia Williams

Chinaza Bado

JJ McAvoy

TV:

Love Island

💬 Follow The League of Extraordinary Readers:

📸🎧https://beacons.ai/tloer

📧Email Us: theleagueofreaderspod@gmail.com

📱Follow us on socials:

IG&Threads: @theleagueofreaders

Shelbey’s IG&Threads: @shelbeymonae

Jess’s IG&Threads: @literaturenoirclub

The Fervent Whites ft. De’Shawn Charles Winslow May 26, 2026

Show notes

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 development and narrative conflict. We also dive into genre exploration across literary fiction, thrillers, and romance, plus conversations about Black representation, cult dynamics in fiction, creativity, and the real-life inspirations behind powerful stories.

If you love literary fiction, Black authors, thoughtful book discussions, author interviews, and diverse literature, this episode is for you.

#BookPodcast #BlackReaders #LiteraryFiction #BlackAuthors #AuthorInterview #DiverseBooks #BookTube #ReadingPodcast #DeshawnCharlesWinslow

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Deshawn Winslow and his work

01:58 The appeal of small town settings for tension and conflict

02:31 Writing routines and deadlines

03:56 Systemic issues and their influence on narrative

07:07 Themes of adoption, race, and cultural identity

10:08 Writing process, rituals, and the impact of the pandemic

13:09 Creating conflict in small towns versus big cities

15:12 Inspiration from real-life experiences

16:10 The role of transportation and setting in storytelling

19:09 Portrayal of Black characters and systemic challenges

22:10 The importance of authentic representation in adoption stories

25:04 Author’s insights on systemic racial issues and family dynamics

30:03 Practical advice for writers on plot and character development

33:12 The influence of personal experiences and research on writing

34:58 Research and setting: Socrates and upstate New York

35:51 Closing thoughts and upcoming projects

44:52 The fascination with cults and community dynamics

54:47 Writing challenging scenes: captivity and suspense

01:04:38 Future projects and genre ventures

01:09:31 Final thoughts and social media links

Books Mentioned:

The Fervent Whites

The Shape of Dreams

Leave Your Mess At Home

Passing

Decent People

In West Mills

Revival Season

Light The Way

💬 Follow The League of Extraordinary Readers:

📸🎧https://beacons.ai/tloer

📧Email Us: theleagueofreaderspod@gmail.com

📱Follow us on socials:

IG&Threads: @theleagueofreaders

Shelbey’s IG&Threads: @shelbeymonae

Jess’s IG&Threads: @literaturenoirclub

Deshawn C. Winslow IG&Threads: @deshawncharleswinslow

It Was Me, I Was Dumb May 12, 2026

Show notes

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 also share recent reads, book recommendations, cultural insights, reflections on complex narratives, and celebrate Caribbean author Earl Lovelace.

If you love literary fiction, Black fiction, thoughtful book discussions, and discovering new authors, this episode is for you.

#BookPodcast #BlackReaders #LiteraryFiction #BlackAuthors #DiverseBooks #BookTube #ReadingPodcast #CaribbeanLiterature #ScienceFictionBooks #HorrorBooks

Books Mentioned:

The Hospital at the End of the World

Sky Full of Elephants

Out There Screaming

Sing, Unburied, Sing

Beloved

The Johnson Four

The Devil In Silver

There Is Rio Grande in Heaven

Krik Krak

Africa is Not a Country

The Love Songs WEB DuBois

Leave Your Mess At Home

A Guardian and A Thief

A Burning

While Gods Are Falling

Salt

Giovanni’s Room

Chapters:

00:00 The Evolution of Rappers

02:48 Podcast Announcements and Upcoming Events

06:07 Book Discussions: The Hospital at the End of the World

08:56 Reading Comprehension and Literary Insights

11:54 Exploring Toni Morrison's Beloved

25:38 Understanding Toni Morrison's Impact

29:22 Personal Growth Through Literature

33:15 Exploring Diverse Literary Voices

39:00 The Role of Community in Literature

41:33 Navigating Personal Challenges and Literature

44:21 Critical Perspectives on Oprah's Book Club Picks

50:56 The Art of Storytelling

52:39 Cultural Influences in Literature

54:13 Exploring Diverse Narratives

56:23 The Johnson Four: Expectations vs. Reality

01:00:27 The Ghost Story That Wasn't

01:02:50 Perception vs. Reality in Book Recommendations

01:08:35 Celebrating Earl Lovelace's Legacy

💬 Follow The League of Extraordinary Readers:

📸🎧https://beacons.ai/tloer

📧Email Us: theleagueofreaderspod@gmail.com

📱Follow us on socials:

IG&Threads: @theleagueofreaders

Shelbey’s IG&Threads: @shelbeymonae

Jess’s IG&Threads: @literaturenoirclub

🪩 Church Announcements:

May Book Pick: (The Fervent Whites)https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-fervent-whites-a-novel-de-shawn-charles-winslow/be2d0ea2636cf5be?ean=9780593977910&next=t

(Decent People) https://bookshop.org/p/books/decent-people-de-shawn-charles-winslow/0e1094ad4dbc167c?ean=9781639733040&next=t

In West Mills https://bookshop.org/p/books/in-west-mills-de-shawn-charles-winslow/57f091916a251a72?ean=9781635575286&next=t

Big Boi TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTkWc6uBY/

TV/Movies:

The Pitt

House

Nature Boy Documentary

#TheLeagueOfExtraordinaryReaders #BookPodcast #BlackLiterature #DiverseReaders #BookReviews

White Kindred Apr 28, 2026

Show notes

🎙️ 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 Festival, and discuss the rise of celebrity imprints in publishing.

Plus, we honor Ernest J. Gaines in a special Praise For segment—reflecting on his life, legacy, and impact on African American literature, alongside comparisons to Zora Neale Hurston and James McBride.

✨ Expect book recommendations, industry insights, and real conversations about where literature is headed next.

Book Mentioned:

The Hospital at the End of The World

The Johnson Four

Erased

The Fervent Whites

The Great Wherever

Yesteryear

Kindred

Beloved

Paradise

Love

A Guardian and A Thief

A Lesson Before Dying

Of Love and Dust

Bits and Pieces

Pignon Scorbion & the Barbershop Detectives

Murder in Haxford

Soundtrack

Matriarch

Chapters

00:00 Urban Fiction and Representation

02:27 Personal Updates and Bookish Adventures

06:24 Reading Challenges and Library Experiences

09:15 Upcoming Interviews and Author Discussions

12:07 The Role of ARCs in Book Promotion

17:04 Trad Wives and Social Media Influences

25:40 The Journey to Healthier Living

29:14 Literary Reflections and Social Media Influences

37:09 Celebrating Ernest J. Gaines and His Legacy

45:01 Whoopi Goldberg's New Publishing Venture

50:08 Family Matters: Milestones and Memories

51:53 Literary Adventures: The LA Book Festival Experience

56:48 Insights from the Festival: Youth and Literature

01:02:27 Mama Tina: Family Dynamics and Humor

01:07:44 Book Festivals: Future Plans and Reflections

💬 Follow The League of Extraordinary Readers:

📸🎧https://beacons.ai/tloer

📧Email Us: theleagueofreaderspod@gmail.com

📱Follow us on socials:

IG&Threads: @theleagueofreaders

Shelbey’s IG&Threads: @shelbeymonae

Jess’s IG&Threads: @literaturenoirclub

Nikesha Williams IG: @nikesha_elise

Nikesha’s Website: https://www.newwrites.com/

🪩 Church Announcements:

April Book Pick: https://bookshop.org/p/books/a-guardian-and-a-thief-oprah-s-book-club-a-novel-megha-majumdar/f0a2f151e6ca281c?ean=9780593804872&next=t

#TheLeagueOfExtraordinaryReaders #BookPodcast #BlackLiterature #DiverseReaders #BookReviews

The She Man WEB DuBois Haters Club Apr 21, 2026

Show notes

🎙️ 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 highlight emerging Black authors, the role of anthologies, and key takeaways from the Children of Color Literary Conference.

✨ If you care about Black authors, diverse storytelling, and where literature is headed next, this episode is for you.

Book Mentioned:

But Where’s Home

Hospital At The End of the World

The Johnson Four

A Harlem Wedding

Family

In Search of Satisfaction

That’s How They Get You

Out There Screaming

Black Women’s Writers at Work

Never Whistle At Night