Best Virtual Book Club Questions Podcasts (2025)

1
The Red Headed League - A Holmes, A Watson and a Redhead Walk Into A Bank Robbery 51:22

4d ago51:22

51:22

In this episode, we’re digging into *The Red-Headed League*, one of the most clever and entertaining short stories from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes collection. Join us as we follow Holmes and Watson through a bizarre case involving a mysterious job posting, a suspicious employer, and a scheme that’s far more serious than it first appea…

1
All Boys Aren't Blue by George M. Johnson 43:05

15d ago43:05

43:05

Send us a text Wendy and Amy discuss their first nonfiction read ever for the podcast, George M. Johnson's memoir All Boys Aren't Blue. We talk about the benefits of reading someone else's story and how much can be learned from them, as well as the value this book in particular brings to readers. Pop a cork to being open to others' truths! Ingredie…

1
The Hunger Games - Bread and circuses and child murder 1:02:36

18d ago1:02:36

1:02:36

In this episode, we’re talking all things The Hunger Games—the book that took the world by storm and redefined YA dystopian fiction. We’ll dive into what makes this story so gripping, from the intense survival stakes to the sharp social commentary woven into Panem’s brutal world. We’ll break down Katniss Everdeen as a protagonist, the tension of th…

1
Jane Eyre - Even The Weather Thinks This Is A Bad Idea 1:13:36

1M ago1:13:36

1:13:36

Join us for an in-depth conversation as we explore Charlotte Brontë’s classic, Jane Eyre. In this episode, we chat about the unforgettable journey of Jane—from her early struggles as an orphan to her quest for independence and love. We dive into the many layers of social commentary, Gothic atmosphere, and the fierce resilience that makes this novel…

1
Mini Ep - Much Ado about Nothing 22:20

2M ago22:20

22:20

In this Mini episode, we’re back to the world of Shakespeare with “Much Ado About Nothing”, and ask questions we hadn’t asked before. Note, this episode features spoilers for the book. The Back of the Book: “The primary plot of Much Ado About Nothing turns on the courtship and scandal involving young Hero and her suitor, Claudio, but the witty war …

1
13 Reason Why by Jay Asher 44:33

2M ago44:33

44:33

Send us a text Wendy and Amy take on heavy topics discussing Thirteen Reasons Why by J. Asher. We talk about story structure and symbology, as well as why such an impactful story would be banned. Pop a cork to books that can teach us to look and listen for ways to help and speak up for others. Thanks to Podcast Feedspot for helping us spread the wo…

1
Throne of Jade (Temeraire) - it's my book they will stay on the boat if I tell them to 55:18

2M ago55:18

55:18

Join us for a chat as we dive into Naomi Novik’s Throne of Jade, the second installment in the Temeraire (His Majesty’s Dragon) series. In this episode, we discuss about the epic blend of historical intrigue, vibrant dragon lore, and complex characters that bring this story to life. We’ll share our thoughts on the rich worldbuilding and the unforge…

1
Mansfield Park - Mansplain Park 1:02:54

2M ago1:02:54

1:02:54

In our final Austen discussion, we turn our attention to Mansfield Park. Join us for a thoughtful conversation about Jane Austen’s classic as we explore its characters, intricate plot, and enduring social commentary. Throughout the episode, we examine Austen’s narrative and have a think if our pet cat would approve of this novel. If you appreciate …

1
Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger 50:48

3M ago50:48

50:48

Send us a text Wendy and Amy discuss a high school staple, The Catcher in the Rye by J. D. Salinger. We talk about the fourth musketeer, Holden as a contradiction, and ducks. Pop a cork to teen angst. Ingredients for Today's D'Artagnan Cocktail Pairing: 1 tsp. Armagnac (We subbed Remi Martin Cognac VSOP) 1 tsp. orange liqueur (We used Grand Marnier…

1
A Closed and Common Orbit - What does it mean to be a Human or an AI? 1:01:09

3M ago1:01:09

1:01:09

In this episode of Teaching My Cat to Read, we’re diving into the heartwarming and deeply thought provoking sci-fi novel A Closed and Common Orbit by Becky Chambers. We have a chat about the book’s big themes: identity, belonging, the meaning of family, and what it means to build a life—whether you’re human, an AI, or something in between. With its…

1
Mini Ep - Long way to an Angry Planet 14:41

3M ago14:41

14:41

Please note: this episode contains MAJOR PLOT SPOILERS for the book if you haven’t read it yet from the start In this Mini episode, we return to the world of the Wayfarer with “The Long Way to a Small, Angry, Planet”, and ask questions we hadn’t asked before. Note, this episode features spoilers for the book. The Back of the Book: “Follow a motley …

1
The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison 1:00:34

4M ago1:00:34

1:00:34

Send us a text Wendy and Amy start off the season with one of the most banned and challenged books, The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison. We talk about reading difficult topics and what can be learned from that. We also dive into a bit of the history of Dick and Jane readers and their use in this novel. Pop a cork to incredible writing that tackles hars…

1
The Scottish Play - Just One More Murder, Bro, I Swear 1:04:38

4M ago1:04:38

1:04:38

In this week’s episode of Teaching My Cat to Read, we’re entering into the world of Macbeth—a play packed with witches, ambition, and one very messy quest for power. Whether you’re a fan of Shakespeare or just curious about all the drama, this episode is for you! We’ll chat about those three witches and their prophecies, Macbeth and Lady Macbeth’s …

1
Wyrd Sisters - And I Would Have Gotten Away With It Too, If It Wasn’t For Those Meddling Witches 1:14:18

4M ago1:14:18

1:14:18

In this episode, we go back to the Discworld to discuss the book “Wyrd Sisters”, by Terry Pratchett. The second book in the Witches series, “Wyrd Sisters” parodies and satires “Macbeth, by William Shakespeare” (which we discuss in the episode after this one). We discuss which character would be the only human in the muppets adaptation, critique on …

1
Season 7 Prologue 29:47

5M ago29:47

29:47

Send us a text Wendy and Amy are kicking off another season of books and bubbly! This season we'll be talking about banned books and pairing them with some bubbly cocktails. We've got everything we'll be reading and drinking here in the Prologue. Pop a cork to Season 7, banned books, banned booze! Ingredients for Today's Cocktail Pairing: from Pros…

1
The Lion The Witch and the Wardrobe - I’d Sell You To Satan For One Turkish Delight 1:10:52

5M ago1:10:52

1:10:52

In this special Christmas Episode of “Teaching My Cat to Read”, we discuss the classic children’s novel “The lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe” By CS Lewis. We discuss, Christian Allegory, the enchanted Turkish Delights, character arcs and how not to die in a Wardrobe. What rating do we think our cat will give this book? Listen to find out! Content…

1
Season 6: The Epilogue 15:53

6M ago15:53

15:53

Send us a text Wendy and Amy wrap up the season with a rundown of the books and bubbly they couldn't stop talking about. We give our top three reads and sips of the season. And throw in a teaser for Season 7. Pop a cork to all the characters of Season 6!By Wendy & Amy

1
Never Never by Colleen Hoover & Tarryn Fisher 54:43

7M ago54:43

54:43

Send us a text Wendy and Amy find themselves on opposing sides when they discuss Never Never by Colleen Hoover and Tarryn Fisher. We talked about first loves, fate, couple tattoos, and power dynamics. Pop a cork to memories! Book: Never Never by Colleen Hoover & Tarryn Fisher Bubbly: Zufini Prosecco This episode has a SPOILER SUMMARY. *Our apologie…

1
Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde: You Won’t Like Me When I’ve Drunk My Murder Potion 1:06:52

7M ago1:06:52

1:06:52

Happy Halloween! For today’s spooky special episode, we welcome back friend of the pod and Jekyll and Hyde aficionado Charlotte to discuss Secret Crimes, queer readings and cat ratings. Featuring in-depth Utterson discussion, trans woman Hyde, the politics of disgust and unexpected time cops. Content Warnings Swearing Please note, as of this episod…

1
The Writing Retreat by Julia Bartz 54:49

8M ago54:49

54:49

Send us a text Wendy and Amy lock themselves in for a thrilling discussion of The Writing Retreat by Julia Bartz. We talk about characters that didn't exactly charm us, but a spooky house that did. We explore blood as a symbol and a bond. Pop a cork to dysfunctional relationships! Book: The Writing Retreat by Julia Bartz Bubbly: Torresella Prosecco…

1
Someone Else's Shoes by Jojo Moyes 1:02:09

9M ago1:02:09

1:02:09

Send us a text Wendy and Amy take a (literary) walk in some very high heels in Someone Else's Shoes by Jojo Moyes. We talk about female friendships, misogyny in the workplace, and just how much power clothes, and shoes, can have. These characters had us on an emotional roller coaster and we loved it. Pop a cork to a great pair of shoes! Book: Someo…

1
The Villa by Rachel Hawkins 1:02:46

10M ago1:02:46

1:02:46

Send us a text Wendy and Amy discuss a Gothic thriller, The Villa by Rachel Hawkins. We may not have found the characters very likeable, but they definitely gave us a lot to discuss! We explore the parallel storylines, relationships and control, and cursed houses. Pop a cork to messy characters! Book: The Villa by Rachel Hawkins Bubbly: C Villa Pro…

1
Love on the Brain by Ali Hazelwood 58:52

11M ago58:52

58:52

Send us a text Wendy and Amy take on a sciencey romance with Love on the Brain by Ali Hazelwood. We let AI guide our discussion and it took us down a science path that was anything but boring. Pop a cork to love in the lab! Book: Love on the Brain by Ali Hazelwood Bubbly: Biagio Prosecco Have you ever read a STEMinist romance? Did you know that Mar…

1
The Measure by Nikki Erlick 1:05:20

12M ago1:05:20

1:05:20

Send us a text Wendy and Amy discuss speculative fiction novel The Measure by Nikki Erlick. We talked characters we related to and loved, and some we didn't. We had thoughts about AI and which of us would absolutely have to open the box. Pop a cork to living your life to the fullest! Book: The Measure by Nikki Erlick Bubbly: Giusti Asolo Prosecco C…

1
Book Lovers by Emily Henry 55:37

1y ago55:37

55:37

Send us a text Wendy and Amy discuss a little romance with Book Lovers by Emily Henry. We loved the sisterly bond between Nora and Libby, and the snarky banter between Nora and Charlie. Pop a cork to finding love where you least expect it! Book: Book Lovers by Emily Henry Bubbly: Caposaldo Prosecco This episode has a SPOILER SUMMARY. Character Sket…

1
The Wheel of Time Series 2 - Part 4 - Bannered Across the Sky in Fire 1:11:18

1y ago1:11:18

1:11:18

In this 4th bonus episode for our 3rd series, we discuss the final 2 episodes, episodes 7 and 8, of Amazon Primes “The Wheel of Time” series 2, “Daes Dae'mar” and “What Was Meant to Be". We talk about the episodes in relation to the books, this series is an adaptation of books 2+3 “The Great Hunt” and “The Dragon Reborn”, so we try to not spoil any…

1
The Wheel of Time Series 2 - Part 3 - Egwene Is Going Through It Hours 1:04:55

1y ago1:04:55

1:04:55

In this bonus episode, we discuss episodes 5 and 6 of Amazon Primes “The Wheel of Time” series 2, “Damane” and “Eyes Without Pity”. We talk about the episodes in relation to the books, this series is an adaptation of books 2+3 “The Great Hunt” and “The Dragon Reborn”, so we try to not spoil anything plot wise after those books. Episode 5, Damane: M…

1
Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson 1:01:59

1y ago1:01:59

1:01:59

Send us a text Wendy and Amy discuss the sweeping family drama Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson. They talk characters, ghastly and golden, secrets, love, and of course, about a black cake. Pop a cork to traditions that hold together, and sometimes even heal, a family! Book: Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson Bubbly: Gancia Prosecco This episode has…

1
The Wheel of Time Series 2 - Part 2 - Lanfear Loves Lace, Leather, and Lews Therin 1:00:33

1y ago1:00:33

1:00:33

In this bonus episode, we discuss episodes 3 and 4 of Amazon Primes “The Wheel of Time” series 2. In this episode we focus on episodes 3 and 4 of Series 2 (“What might be” and “Daughter of the Night”). In relation to the books, this series is an adaptation of books 2+3 “The Great Hunt” and “The Dragon Reborn”, so we try to not spoil anything plot w…

1
The Wheel of Time Series 2 - Part 1 - This looks better than S1 1:03:54

1y ago1:03:54

1:03:54

In this bonus episode, Lotti, and M, are joined by AJ, and Liv, about series 2 of the Wheel of Time on Amazon Prime. In this episode, we discuss specially episodes 1 and 2. We discuss all things costumes, plot points, and our favourite bits from the episodes. Plus we ask the question: Which Ajah would Jane Austen’s heroines be in? Make sure you’ve …

1
The Maid by Nita Prose 1:06:03

1y ago1:06:03

1:06:03

Send us a text Wendy and Amy discuss The Maid by Nita Prose, a locked-room mystery with an intriguing cast of characters. We loved Molly, were repulsed by Rodney (one of us, anyway!), and enamored with the fabulous setting. Which characters got a kiss, a ring, or a knife through the heart this time? Pop a cork to one underestimated, but brilliant M…

1
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus 1:09:00

1+ y ago1:09:00

1:09:00

Send us a text Wendy and Amy put on their lab coats and dive into Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus. They talk characters, resiliency, and just what that #2 pencil (might've) meant for Elizabeth Zott. Pop a cork to women who stand up for other women and themselves! Book: Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus Bubbly: Bolla Prosecco Toxic Pestici…

1
Season 6 The Prologue 17:00

1+ y ago17:00

17:00

Send us a text Wendy and Amy are back! It's a whole new year and a whole new season. We've got a few tweaks and changes this season, a stack of great books and plenty of bubbly. Our prologue will get you ready for it all. Pop a cork to Season 6! Books and Bubbly by Month * January: Prologue with Hi Prosecco * February:Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie…

1
Q and A: jingle jingle jingle 41:37

1+ y ago41:37

41:37

It’s our Q and A episode! We answer your questions in this special bonus episode of our podcast. Content Warnings NA Support the show Recommend us a Book! If there’s a book you want to recommend to us to read, just send us a message/email and we’ll pop it on our long list (but please read our review policy on our website first for the books we acce…

1
Hound of the Baskervilles : cocks gun Moor’s Haunted 45:11

1+ y ago45:11

45:11

For our final book review of series 3 join us as we discuss the Sherlock Holmes story “The Hound of the Baskervilles” by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Featuring haunted moors, Scooby-Doo villainy, the John Watson defence squad, and some dogs (no cats). For our other episodes featuring Sherlock Holmes, including “Study in Scarlet”, see our website link be…

1
Gideon the Ninth: We Do Bones, Motherf*cker 57:47

1+ y ago57:47

57:47

Join us on an unforgettable literary journey as we unlock the secrets of Tamsyn Muir's captivating novel, "Gideon the Ninth." In this episode, we venture into a realm where necromancers wield power, the line between life and death blurs, and secrets shroud the decaying Canaan House. Content Warnings Death Support the show Recommend us a Book! If th…

1
Emma: The “Make Up A Guy To Be Mad At” Olympics 1:03:44

1+ y ago1:03:44

1:03:44

Join us for a discussion of Jane Austen’s Emma - a story of misguided match-making, lying lovers, and stressful social situations. We talk about class, telling yourself stories about what’s going on in the heads of those around you, and - of course - who we’d fight if given the chance. Content Warnings na Support the show Recommend us a Book! If th…

1
The Creature in the Case: Country House Monster Mystery 51:32

1+ y ago51:32

51:32

Join us for a lively review of "Nicholas Sayre and the Creature in the Case." By Garth Nix. In this standalone novella set in the Abhorsen universe, Nicholas Sayre embarks on a thrilling adventure, facing personal demons and unraveling a chilling mystery surrounding a locked case and an enigmatic creature. We explore Nix's masterful storytelling, i…

1
Mini Ep - The Final Empire 15:16

1+ y ago15:16

15:16

In this mini episode, the team ask the questions they didn’t ask before in the full review of The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson. For the full book review, see series 1 episode 20 Support the show Recommend us a Book! If there’s a book you want to recommend to us to read, just send us a message/email and we’ll pop it on our long list (but please…

1
Alanna the First Adventure: Twenty Pounds of Stubborn in a Five Pound Bag 57:23

1+ y ago57:23

57:23

Join us for a discussion of the first book in Tamora Pierce’s The Song of the Lioness series, Alanna the First Adventure. We think about what this story has to say about gender, and how it took on topics like bullying, sexism and misogyny while not even being allowed to run more than a couple hundred pages, because “it’s for children”. Content Warn…

1
Sir Gawain and the Green Knight : If You Want To Get A-Head, Get An Axe 1:07:29

2y ago1:07:29

1:07:29

It’s time for us to review another medieval poem! In this episode, we discuss “Sir Gawain and the Green Knight”. Sir Gawain and the Green Knight is a late 14th-century chivalric romance in Middle English, with an unknown author. The title of the poem was given centuries later after it was first written. It is one of the best-known Arthurian stories…

1
Anno Dracula: A Victorian Vampire Clusterf*ck 1:10:18

2y ago1:10:18

1:10:18

Join us for a special episode of Teaching My Cat To Read, where Eli brings some beloved guests on board to discuss Kim Newman's Anno Dracula. We talk about whether vampires are always sexy, how many fun literary cameos an author can include before it gets annoying, and exactly what on earth is going on in this book. Please mind the content notes; t…

1
Mini Ep - Temeraire 17:09

2y ago17:09

17:09

In this mini episode, the team asks the questions they didn’t ask before in the full review of Temeraire (His Majesty’s Dragon) by Naomi Novik. "Temeraire" combines history and fantasy, transporting readers to an alternate Napoleonic era where dragons exist. Join Captain Will Laurence as he unexpectedly becomes the partner of a dragon hatchling nam…

1
The Raven Tower: Put That Rock Back Where It Came From Or So Help Me 1:09:45

2y ago1:09:45

1:09:45

In this episode, we review Ann Leckie's captivating fantasy novel, "The Raven Tower." Published in 2019, it immerses readers in a world where gods and humans coexist. Leckie's masterful prose, rich mythology, and well-crafted characters make this a must-read. Discover why it earned critical acclaim and awards. Happy reading! “A usurper has claimed …

1
Hamlet: Everything a Goddamn Ordeal in Area Family 1:04:28

2y ago1:04:28

1:04:28

In this episode, we chat about the play Hamlet by William Shakespeare. “The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark”, often shortened to “Hamlet” is one of Shakespeare’s most quoted plays. It was written between 1599-1601, and is his longest play. The play is set in Denmark, where Prince Hamlet’s uncle has taken over the throne by killing Hamlet’s fat…

1
Mini Ep - Small Gods 16:05

2y ago16:05

16:05

In this mini episode, the team asks the questions they didn’t ask before in the full review of Small Gods by Terry Pratchett. For the full book review, see series 1 episode 10. Support the show Recommend us a Book! If there’s a book you want to recommend to us to read, just send us a message/email and we’ll pop it on our long list (but please read …

1
Guards! Guards!: Bjorn Strong in the Arm’s your Uncle 1:05:23

2y ago1:05:23

1:05:23

As we continue on our valiant quest to read more books in the Discworld series, we decided to discuss “Guards! Guards!” by Terry Pratchett. The first in the City Watch series of books within the Discworld universe, Guards! Guards! Follows the Night Watch as they try to recover a stolen magical book which can be used to summon dragons. Featuring man…

1
Death on the Nile: Don’t Make Me Turn This Ship Around 58:12

2y ago58:12

58:12

In this episode, we discuss the Agatha Christie Novel “Death on the Nile”. Featuring everyone’s favourite Belgian detective Hercule Poirot, (brushing off our gcse French to understand his thoughts), the twists and turns of the plot, silly questions, and what our cat would think. Content Warnings Fictional murder, alcoholism Support the show Recomme…

1
Cosmere: Look, a chicken! 1:02:57

2y ago1:02:57

1:02:57

In this episode Lotti is joined by friends of the podcast Liv and AJ to discuss Brandon Sanderson’s high fantasy book series The Stormlight Archive. What did we think of this series compared to Wheel of Time, or other Cosmere books? What’s our favourite cameo? Who’s our favourite character? Check out this episode to find out! We’ve read the books b…

1
Howl’s Moving Castle: The world’s magic-est camper van 59:46

2y ago59:46

59:46

In this episode we discuss the novel Howl’s Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones. Listen to the episode to find out what we thought, and more importantly what our cat thought of the book! Book blurb: Sophie has the great misfortune of being the eldest of three daughters, destined to fail miserably should she ever leave home to seek her fortune. But w…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Virtual Book Club Questions Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen