The League of Extraordinary Readers

The League of Extraordinary Readers
  • 4.3 (15)
  • BOOKS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

A podcast focused on diversifying your reading and letting you in on our voice notes and banter. We'll interview your favorite authors/creators, connect pop culture to literature, and of course laugh.

  1. 3D AGO

    There Is Confusion| Jessie Redmon Fauset

    🎙️ 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 character development—especially Joanna’s arc—and examine the novel’s pacing and cultural significance within early 20th-century Black literature. We close with thoughts on what worked, what surprised us, and what’s next on our reading list. ✨ Perfect for readers interested in classic Black literature, thoughtful analysis, and intentional reading. ⏱️ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Technical Difficulties and Introduction 02:27 Book Club Collaboration and Black History Month 05:33 Personal Reading Experiences and Recommendations 11:28 Discussion on Current Reads and Upcoming Books 25:00 In-Depth Review of 'There is Confusion' 27:01 The Journey to Chaos 30:29 Navigating Relationships and Aspirations 34:01 The Consequences of Actions 35:58 The Struggles of Goodness in Society 37:57 Corporate Realities and Personal Growth 39:34 Reflections on Literature and Expectations 45:52 Comparative Literature and Influences 📚 Books & Topics Mentioned: There Is Confusion The Seven Daughters of Dupree Trinity August Lane The Wedding Burn Down Master’s House The True Confession of First Lady Freeman Art on My Mind Model Home On Sundays She Picked Flowers Casualties of Truth Yellow Wife Seven Therapy Session Session Two Kin The Salteaters Giovanni’s Room Country Place Another Country Their Eyes Were Watching God A More Perfect Union Inharmonius TV Shows: My Strange Addictions The Pitt Love Is Blind A Knight of Seven Kingdoms Shrinking 💬 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: March Book Pick: https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-salt-eaters-toni-cade-bambara/16131820da64c6bc?ean=9780679740766&next=t  #TheLeagueOfExtraordinaryReaders #BookPodcast #BlackLiterature #DiverseReaders #BookReviews

    55 min

  2. FEB 24

    The Importance of Art ft. Irvin Weathersby Jr

    🎙️ 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 explores representation for Black men in literature, the current political climate’s effect on cultural narratives, and how travel expands creative perspective. The episode closes with rapid-fire questions highlighting Irvin’s literary influences, personal preferences, and what’s next in his writing journey. ✨ Perfect for readers interested in Black literature, culture, art, and thoughtful conversations during Black History Month and beyond. ⏱️ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Celebrating Culture and Community 03:14 Art and Identity: The Influence of New Orleans 06:07 Connecting Generations: Family Traditions and Heritage 09:18 Art as a Reflection of Society: Emotional Experiences 12:17 Political Climate and Cultural Narratives 15:07 The Impact of Writing: Personal Growth and Family Dynamics 17:59 Exploring New Horizons: Future Projects and Travel Experiences 27:25 Embracing Nature and Creativity 28:17 Literary Influences and Inspirations 31:26 Current Reads and Teaching Literature 33:15 The Art of Book Covers 36:34 The Publishing Industry and Author Representation 44:57 The Impact of Literature on Personal Growth 47:39 Exploring the Joys of Reading and Writing 50:42 Imagining Life in Different Time Periods 53:38 The Power of Storytelling and Cultural Reflection 📚 Books & Topics Mentioned: Biography of a mountain From These Roots After Shocks The Devil Three Time Mother Mary Comes To Me Hunger Another Word For Love James The Seven Daughters of Dupree The Trees Erasure I Am Not Sidney Poitier The Mysterious Death of Junetta Plum Perish Holler, Child  Homecoming Things Fall Apart Birth of a dynasty Rage of Dragons TV/Movies: 💬 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  Irvin’s IG: @irvinwrites Irvin’s Substack:  🪩 Church Announcements: #TheLeagueOfExtraordinaryReaders #BookPodcast #BlackLiterature #DiverseReaders #BookReviews

    58 min

  3. FEB 15

    Discussing Trinity w/ Zelda Lockhart

    🎙️ 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. From Black Baptist influences to emotional release in the writing process, this episode centers literature as medicine, ritual, and collective restoration. ✨ A must-listen for readers who believe stories can heal families, communities, and ourselves. ⏱️ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - Introduction to Zelda Lockhart and Trinity  02:00 - Comparing Zelda's writing to Toni Morrison’s poetic descriptions 05:00 - Reflection on family silence and unspoken trauma  09:00 - How family history influences Zelda’s storytelling  12:30 - Writing as a spiritual practice and emotional release techniques  16:00 - The importance of truth-telling in healing  20:00 - Handling trauma with care in writing  25:00 - The spiritual significance of music and environment during creative process  36:00 - Overcoming doubts: Zelda’s six re-writes of Trinity  39:00 - Literature as a spiritual and healing tool  42:00 - Encouraging vulnerability and honesty to heal collective trauma 45:00 - The deep connection between art, spirit, and self-reflection  49:00 - Rapid fire: favorites, routines, and future projects  52:10 - Zelda’s upcoming work and closing thoughts 📚 Books & Topics Mentioned: Trinity Jazz The Seven Daughters of Dupree Sea Island Blues Beloved  On Sundays She Picked Flowers Holler. Child! Perish The Book of Chuck TV/Movies: 💬 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  Zelda’s IG: @zelda.lockhart 🪩 Church Announcements: #TheLeagueOfExtraordinaryReaders #BookPodcast #BlackLiterature #DiverseReaders #BookReviews

    53 min

  4. FEB 13 · BONUS

    Bonus Episode: The Grand Paloma Resort ft. Cleyvis Natera

    🎙️ 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 explores complex character development, the influence of television and pop culture on storytelling, and how societal desensitization, politics, and the pandemic shape both fiction and real life. Cleyvis also shares her personal journey balancing writing, teaching, and family, emphasizing the importance of community, reader support, and intentional engagement with literature. The episode wraps with book recommendations, reflections on relationships, and excitement for upcoming literary releases. ✨ Perfect for readers, book lovers, and anyone interested in thoughtful conversations about literature, culture, and society. ⏱️ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction to the Grand Paloma Resort and Author's Journey 03:12 The Impact of Mass Market Paperbacks on Accessibility 06:19 The Role of Tourism in the Caribbean and Local Labor 12:20 Inspiration Behind the Grand Paloma Resort 18:10 Exploring Classism and Capitalism in Tourism 24:07 Character Development and Reader Engagement in Fiction 25:30 Character Complexity and Empathy 26:55 Isolation and Power Dynamics in Corporate America 31:05 Balancing Life: Writing, Family, and Career 43:56 Exploring Ambition and Gender Dynamics in Fiction 49:24 The End of Civility 50:03 Impact of the Pandemic on Society 51:59 Complicity in Community Issues 53:07 Cultural Identity and Political Choices 55:08 Understanding Apathy and Complicity 01:00:20 The Role of Activism and Responsibility 01:03:23 Reflections on Leadership and Expectations 💬 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  📚 Books & Topics Mentioned: The Farming of Bones The Grand Paloma Resort A Small Place What Storm, What Thunder 🪩 Church Announcements: #TheLeagueOfExtraordinaryReaders #BookPodcast #BlackLiterature #DiverseReaders #BookReviews

    1h 8m

  5. FEB 10

    Is It Scary?! Ft. Clarence A Haynes

    🎙️ 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 elements, and why representation in literature matters. Clarence also shares insights into his inspirations and what readers can expect next. ✨ A must-listen for readers who love thoughtful conversations about craft, genre, and storytelling. ⏱️ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 03:04 Finding Balance in Life and Reading 06:03 The Ghost of Gwendolyn Montgomery: Overview and Themes 09:16 Writing Process and Inspirations 11:59 Genre-Bending and Future Works 14:46 Influences from Music and Other Media 18:01 Discussion on Horror and Reader Reactions 20:55 Exploring the Nature of Genres 23:56 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts 📚 Books & Topics Mentioned: The Ghosts of Gwendolyn Montgomery  Mexican Gothic  The Reformatory Lone Women  Burn Down Master’s House The Starseekers  Ring Shout  Blood Slaves A Love Song for Ricki Wilde King of Ashes  Dominion All the Sinners Bleed  Son of the Morning  The Rage of Dragons  Mind of My Mind TV/Movies: Coco Ghostbusters  The Exorcist  Sinners 💬 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:

    1 hr

  6. FEB 3

    Happy Black History Month

    🎙️ 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 importance of uplifting Black authors, the emotional connections readers form with books, and the difficulty of letting go of stories that matter. The conversation also touches on broader cultural moments, including discussions around Kamala Harris, political perspectives, and why diverse voices in literature remain essential. Thoughtful, honest, and bookish to the core, this episode is perfect for readers looking for new recommendations and meaningful literary dialogue. ✨ Ideal for readers, African American readers, and anyone seeking thoughtful book conversations and new reads. ⏱️ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction and Book Haul 02:30 Exploring Black History Month Reads 05:32 Diving into Personal Reading Experiences 08:17 Discussion on Black-Owned Bookstores 11:19 Reflections on Recent Reads 14:07 Kamala Harris's Book and Political Reflections 23:55 Exploring Influential Literature 25:29 The Political Landscape and Celebrity Influence 26:52 Conservative Views in the Rap Community 28:45 Cultural Perspectives on Voting 29:10 Book Recommendations and Upcoming Reads 31:20 Anticipating February's Literary Events 35:33 Diving into New Releases and Author Events 44:35 Book Attachment and the Struggle to Let Go 46:41 Exploring New Reads and Recommendations 47:53 The Importance of Women’s History Month in Literature 49:45 Comparative Analysis of Historical Fiction 53:08 Diverse Themes in Contemporary Literature 55:16 Supporting Black Authors and Upcoming Releases 📚 Books & Topics Mentioned: On Sunday’s She Picked Flowers Vigil We Inherit The Fire Burn Down Master’s House A Beast Slinks Towards Beijing Black Owned The True Confessions of First Lady Freeman It’s Love I’m After The Waerbearers The Seven Daughters of Dupree The Wedding 107 Days A More Perfect Party Jazz All We Were Promised Great Black Hope The Ghosts of Gwendolyn Montgomery The Grand Paloma Resort Trinity In Open Contempt There is Confusion Grown Women The Hospital At The End of the World The People’s Library Model Home The Battle of the Black Mind Moonrise Over New Jessup  Erased Three Mothers The Blueprint The Unsettled  Twelve Tribes of Hattie Homegoing Honey Butter Pig Bread I’ll Make a Spectacle of You Lucy With Love From Harlem If I Ruled The World Surrender to Me Surrender Your Heart 💬 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: February BOTM is There Is Confusion by Jessie Remon Fauset #TheLeagueOfExtraordinaryReaders #BookPodcast #BlackLiterature #DiverseReaders #BookReviews

    1h 3m

  7. JAN 27

    Books, TV Shows, and Ayahuasca

    🎙️ 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 stability on personal growth and the search for meaning. ✨ Perfect for readers, African American readers, and anyone searching for new books, deeper conversations, and a more intentional reading life. 📚 Books & Topics Mentioned: Honeysuckle  The Confessions of First Lady Freeman The Wedding A Master of Djinn Ring Shout The Dead Cat Tail Assassins Harmattan Season Half His Age The Waterbearers The Seven Daughters of Dupree Jazz The Grand Paloma Resort  Black Shield Maiden Birth of a Dynasty TV Shows My Strange Addiction Hunters The Following The Knight Of The Seven Kingdoms Pole to Pole 💬 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: #TheLeagueOfExtraordinaryReaders #BookPodcast #BlackLiterature #DiverseReaders #BookReviews

    58 min

  8. JAN 20

    Welcome To 2026!

    🎙️ 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 and All About Love, unpacking conversations around Black art, authorship, emotional availability, and the expectations often placed on Black women writers. From setting realistic reading goals to resisting external pressure in both reading and content creation, this episode centers authenticity, personal resonance, and the joy of engaging with stories that truly matter. The conversation wraps with pop culture talk, TV and film favorites, and a shared love for storytelling in all its forms. ✨ Perfect for readers, African American readers, and anyone searching for new books, deeper conversations, and a more intentional reading life. 📚 Books & Topics Mentioned: The True Confessions of First Lady Freeman The Waterbearers The Wedding From These Roots The Grand Paloma Resort Communion  The Artist Way Art On My Mind Warrior Girl Unearthed A Master of Djinn Time Stamps 00:00 Morning Mayhem: A Neighbor's Drama 04:28 Nostalgia Trip: Reflecting on 2016 10:52 Content Creation: The Fight for Originality 19:28 Reading Goals and Personal Growth 23:41 Holiday Surprises and Gift-Giving Stories 27:11 Current Reads and Literary Discussions 43:52 Expectations of Authors and Public Personas 47:40 The Toni Morrison Discourse 49:01 Film Critiques and Performances 56:25 Setting Reading Goals for the Year 01:07:06 Engaging the Next Generation with Literature 💬 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: #TheLeagueOfExtraordinaryReaders #BookPodcast #BlackLiterature #DiverseReaders #BookReviews

    1h 10m
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4.3
out of 5
15 Ratings

About

A podcast focused on diversifying your reading and letting you in on our voice notes and banter. We'll interview your favorite authors/creators, connect pop culture to literature, and of course laugh.

Information

  • Creator
    The League of Extraordinary Readers
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    55
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © The League of Extraordinary Readers
  • Show Website
    The League of Extraordinary Readers

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