First Fifty Pages

In this episode, SCPL staff-favorite crossover novelist Ruta Sepetys talks with Jenn and Kelsey about her debut adult novel, A Fortune of Sand--a book that explores how far wealthy dynasties will go to keep their secrets. We discuss what determines how history is preserved and recalled, how women of the time struggled to find agency, and the fragile tension of writing about things once vital but now vanished. It's a vibe!

In this episode, former Poet Laureate Tracy K Smith talks with Jenn and Kelsey about the power of poetry to connect us with people and places outside of our lived experiences, to tell the story of humanity, and to build durable life skills. Slow down, listen, and feel. You’ll be glad you did.

Did you loveThe Invisible Life of Addie LaRue as much as we did? In this episode of The First Fifty Pages, Kelsey and Jenn chat with author Victoria “V.E.” Schwab about her bestselling novel, opening doors for readers, and why reading helps the creative process.

In this episode of The First Fifty Pages, Jenn and Kelsey talk with best-selling and fan favorite author TJ Klune. We discuss the re-release of his book The Bones Beneath My Skin, the power of seeing oneself in a book, the importance of found family, and the uniqueness and universality of grief. The road may be rocky, but this episode is a reprieve.

In this episode of The First Fifty Pages, Kelsey and Jenn talk with rising star Emilia Hart about her latest novel, Sirens—a story of two sets of sisters separated by time and connected by the power of the sea. We chat about compelling female characters, how the past informs our present, and why meeting readers is such a rewarding experience. Dangerous temptations await!

In this episode, Kelsey and Jenn talk with best-selling author Tim Johnston about his latest novel, Distant Sons—the All Iowa Reads selection for Adult Fiction for 2025. Random acts of misfortune, themes of masculinity and shame, and a small town haunted by great tragedy. It may surprise you or it could devastate you, but at the very least, be prepared to feel all the feels!

In this episode, Jenn and Kelsey talk with bestselling author Nickolas Butler about his latest novel, A Forty-Year Kiss. Listen to hear what in-real-life overheard conversation sparked the inspiration for this life-affirming love story, how he crafts the sublime from the ordinary, and why second chances are so compelling.

In this episode, Jenn and Kelsey talk with blockbuster author Chris Bohjalian about his latest novel, The Jackal's Mistress, a heart-stopping story of two people navigating the boundaries of love and humanity in a landscape of brutal violence. Listen in and discover why Chris Bohjalian is truly one of our greatest storytellers.

In this episode of The First Fifty Pages, Kelsey and Jenn talk with Lisa Genova about her new novel More or Less Maddy. We discuss how story can be a vehicle to open conversations and find compassion for those who are ignored, feared, and misunderstood, the highs and lows of stand-up comedy, and why we all need to get more sleep. Don't hit snooze on this episode!

In this episode, Jenn and Kelsey chat with best-selling author Liane Moriarty about her new book, Here One Moment. We talk psychic encounters, free will and the unique experience of readers. We predict this is a book you’re going to want to read!