Close Reads Podcast 2025: A Year of Reading in Review
Dec 31, 2025
The hosts dive into their favorite reads of the year, sharing their top five book selections and discussing unique literary experiences. They reflect on audience reactions to classic titles and the importance of provocative conversations. Highlights include surprising reads like 'Bridge of San Luis Rey' and explorations of historical figures in 'Stalin, Court of the Red Czar.' The episode teases an exciting reading list for 2026, featuring Tolkien and other classics, while also celebrating personal reflections on cherished books from their childhood.
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Programming Books As Cultural Brackets
- David outlines the subscriber-year plan: Tolkien-themed English poems, Moby Dick, and more, framing American literature in 2026.
- He argues Tolkien and Beowulf work as bookends around Moby Dick to explore the American novel's standing.
Start With Light, Friendly Reads
- David recommends starting 2026 HQ episodes with P.G. Wodehouse to warm listeners up with lighter fare.
- He suggests reading multiple Wodehouse titles (Jeeves and Blandings) to kick off the year joyfully.
Author's Book Sells Out First Run
- Sean praises Heidi's book The Divided Soul and admits reading it in fragments due to a stepped-on copy and busy schedule.
- Heidi celebrates the book's sales, noting the first run sold out and it is backordered through January.