Ep 520: Why are so many promising-sounding titles not working for me?

From What Should I Read Next? by Anne Bogel

April 7, 2026 · 55 min · Episode 520

About this episode

Anne explores reading strategies and book recommendations with guest Kelly Krause, who seeks to enhance her reading list.

Today's guest would love to add more four and five-star picks to her reading list and she's curious about techniques that might help get her there. Kelly Krause is a first grade teacher who lives in Northwest Arkansas with her family. When Kelly discovers a winning author, it feels like a slam dunk to read the rest of their work. But when it comes to branching out in new directions, Kelly is not as confident. She's wondering whether devoting more time to reflecting on her reads by analyzing what's worked well or practicing the art of writing book reviews will help her pick more winning titles. Anne can't wait to explore this with Kelly today, along with sharing titles and authors Kelly may enjoy. Find the list of titles mentioned today on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/520. Our 15th Summer Reading Guide is coming your way next month! Creating this guide each year is truly a labor of love. Our Modern Mrs Darcy Book Club and What Should I Read Next? Patreon community members are automatically invited, and we'll also be offering our popular a la carte ticket. To make sure you get the 15th anniversary edition in your inbox and to find out how to join us for our…

People in this episode

Host: Anne

Guest: Kelly Krause

Topics covered

reading techniques
book recommendations
book reviews

Keywords

four-star picks
five-star picks
reading list
book reviews

Mentioned in this episode

Products: The Book of Hope: A Survival Guide for Trying Times, The Kitchen Front, The Poet X

Books & works: The Book of Hope, The Kitchen Front, The Poet X, The Ministry of Time, The Lion Women of Tehran, Kate & Frida, Grief Cottage

Places: Northwest Arkansas