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An investigative podcast hosted by world-renowned literary critic and publishing insider Bethanne Patrick. Book bans are on the rise across America. With the rise of social media, book publishers are losing their power as the industry gatekeepers. More and more celebrities and influencers are publishing books with ghostwriters. Writing communities are splintering because members are at cross purposes about their mission. Missing Pages is an investigative podcast about the book publishing ind ...
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In this episode, I chat with Tom Muckian about Roe River Books, a thriving independent bookshop in Dundalk, Ireland.
The name itself carries a powerful story of resistance. Tom deliberately named his shop after the world's shortest river as a symbolic counterpoint to Amazon, the world's longest. "I want to be the polar opposite of what Amazon represents," he explains. "I want to be about people and community and recommending books, not algorithms."
Most compelling is Tom's perspective on what makes a great bookseller—understanding that it's not about individual expertise but creating a collective team that connects with readers. "Maybe you don't become a great bookseller individually, but as a collective in a bookshop, as a team, you can become a great bookselling team."
Whether you're passionate about books, interested in Irish culture, or curious about the future of independent retail, Tom's story reminds us why physical bookshops remain vital cultural touchstones in our increasingly digital world. Subscribe now to hear more conversations with remarkable booksellers from around the globe.
Not Your China Doll, Katie Gee Salisbury
Chapters
1. Tom Muckian & Roe River Books: The shortest river stands against the Amazon tide (00:00:00)
2. Welcome to the Bookshop Podcast (00:00:10)
3. Tom's Journey into Bookselling (00:01:08)
4. The Row River Books Story (00:08:13)
5. Amazon vs Independent Bookshops (00:15:35)
6. Exploring Dundalk's History and Culture (00:25:53)
7. What Makes a Great Bookseller (00:33:19)
8. Current Reads and Final Thoughts (00:36:24)
300 episodes
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