Welcome back to The League of Extraordinary Readers! 📚✨

This week, we're catching up on our latest reads, tackling book challenges, sharing tips for reaching your reading goals, and reflecting on the books and life experiences shaping our reading journey. Whether you're looking for your next great read, motivation to finish your TBR, or thoughtful conversations about literature, this episode has something for you.

If you love literary fiction, Black authors, diverse books, reading podcasts, and honest book discussions, don't forget to subscribe and join the conversation!

Books Mentioned:

On Witness and Respair

Death to the Soccer God

Theft

Fairfield County

House of Margins

Womb City

August Lane

Paradise

Ghalen

Tasty

Resolution

Bloodfire, Baby

Mainline Mama

Leave Your Mess At Home

Greetings from the Baracoota Hotel

Authors Mentioned:

TV:

Love Island

House of the Dragon 

I Will Find You

💬 Follow The League of Extraordinary Readers:

📸 🎧 https://beacons.ai/tloer

📧Email Us: [email protected]

📱Follow us on socials:

IG&Threads: @theleagueofreaders

Shelbey’s IG&Threads: @shelbeymonae

Jess’s IG&Threads: @literaturenoirclub 

Welcome back to The League of Extraordinary Readers! 📚✨In this episode, we discuss the book publishing industry with Senior Marketing Director, Danielle Prielipp for the flagship imprint of Simon & Schuster (@SimonBooks). We get into influencer marketing, benefits of indie vs. traditional publishing, her journey into publishing, and more. Listen, subscribe, and join the conversation!🪩 Church Announcements:June: On Witness and Respair by: Jasmyn WardJess’s Reading Retreat: https://slljourneys.com/literature-noir-ghana-experience-2027 Brunchin’ With The Author: https://clyx.com/feed/019aa816-2b87-4b86-823c-be18bae574ff?target=eventTo keep up with Danielle and Simon & Schuster:Instagram/Threads/TikTok: @SimonBooksDanielle Instagram/Threads: @bookpubgal💬 Follow The League of Extraordinary Readers:📸 🎧 https://beacons.ai/tloer📧Email Us: [email protected]📱Follow us on socials:IG&Threads: @theleagueofreadersShelbey’s IG&Threads: @shelbeymonaeJess’s IG&Threads: @literaturenoirclub

Welcome back to The League of Extraordinary Readers! 📚✨

In this episode, we dive into genre-bending fiction, book marketing, and why understanding an author's perspective can transform your reading experience. We also chat about recent travels, upcoming literary events, and the stories shaping our reading lives. If you love literary fiction, diverse books, thoughtful book discussions, and behind-the-scenes conversations about the publishing industry, this episode is for you.

Listen, subscribe, and join the conversation!

🪩 Church Announcements:

June: On Witness and Respair by: Jasmyn Ward

Jess’s Reading Retreat: https://slljourneys.com/literature-noir-ghana-experience-2027 

Brunchin’ With The Author: https://clyx.com/feed/019aa816-2b87-4b86-823c-be18bae574ff?target=event 

Books Mentioned:

Ghalen

Blood Slaves

Dragon Blind

Big Girl Blitz 

The Bone People

Aphrodite and the Duke

Verity and the Forbidden Suitor

Hather and the Prince

Bloodfire Baby

Leave Your Mess at Home

Mainline Mama

Moonrise Over Jessip

Juneteenth

Rabbit, Fox, Tar

On Morrison

Authors Mentioned:

Walter Mosley

Regina Black

Tia Williams

Chinaza Bado

JJ McAvoy

TV:

Love Island

💬 Follow The League of Extraordinary Readers:

📸 🎧 https://beacons.ai/tloer

📧Email Us: [email protected]

📱Follow us on socials:

IG&Threads: @theleagueofreaders

Shelbey’s IG&Threads: @shelbeymonae

Jess’s IG&Threads: @literaturenoirclub 

Welcome back to The League of Extraordinary Readers — a literary podcast hosted by two Black women readers exploring books, storytelling, and culture through a diverse lens. 📚✨

In this episode, we sit down with author Deshawn Charles Winslow to discuss the art of writing compelling fiction, the differences between small-town and city storytelling, and how systemic issues shape character development and narrative conflict. We also dive into genre exploration across literary fiction, thrillers, and romance, plus conversations about Black representation, cult dynamics in fiction, creativity, and the real-life inspirations behind powerful stories.

If you love literary fiction, Black authors, thoughtful book discussions, author interviews, and diverse literature, this episode is for you.

#BookPodcast #BlackReaders #LiteraryFiction #BlackAuthors #AuthorInterview #DiverseBooks #BookTube #ReadingPodcast #DeshawnCharlesWinslow

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Deshawn Winslow and his work

01:58 The appeal of small town settings for tension and conflict

02:31 Writing routines and deadlines

03:56 Systemic issues and their influence on narrative

07:07 Themes of adoption, race, and cultural identity

10:08 Writing process, rituals, and the impact of the pandemic

13:09 Creating conflict in small towns versus big cities

15:12 Inspiration from real-life experiences

16:10 The role of transportation and setting in storytelling

19:09 Portrayal of Black characters and systemic challenges

22:10 The importance of authentic representation in adoption stories

25:04 Author’s insights on systemic racial issues and family dynamics

30:03 Practical advice for writers on plot and character development

33:12 The influence of personal experiences and research on writing

34:58 Research and setting: Socrates and upstate New York

35:51 Closing thoughts and upcoming projects

44:52 The fascination with cults and community dynamics

54:47 Writing challenging scenes: captivity and suspense

01:04:38 Future projects and genre ventures

01:09:31 Final thoughts and social media links

Books Mentioned:

The Fervent Whites

The Shape of Dreams

Leave Your Mess At Home

Passing

Decent People

In West Mills

Revival Season

Light The Way

💬 Follow The League of Extraordinary Readers:

📸 🎧 https://beacons.ai/tloer

📧Email Us: [email protected]

📱Follow us on socials:

IG&Threads: @theleagueofreaders

Shelbey’s IG&Threads: @shelbeymonae

Jess’s IG&Threads: @literaturenoirclub 

Deshawn C. Winslow IG&Threads: @deshawncharleswinslow

Welcome to The League of Extraordinary Readers — a literary podcast hosted by two Black women passionate about diverse storytelling, literary fiction, Black authors, and the books that shape culture. 📚✨

In this episode, we discuss the evolution of rappers and storytelling, the power of science fiction and horror in contemporary literature, and why reading diverse books matters more than ever. We also share recent reads, book recommendations, cultural insights, reflections on complex narratives, and celebrate Caribbean author Earl Lovelace.

If you love literary fiction, Black fiction, thoughtful book discussions, and discovering new authors, this episode is for you.

#BookPodcast #BlackReaders #LiteraryFiction #BlackAuthors #DiverseBooks #BookTube #ReadingPodcast #CaribbeanLiterature #ScienceFictionBooks #HorrorBooks

Books Mentioned:

The Hospital at the End of the World 

Sky Full of Elephants

Out There Screaming 

Sing, Unburied, Sing

Beloved

The Johnson Four

The Devil In Silver

There Is Rio Grande in Heaven

Krik Krak

Africa is Not a Country

The Love Songs WEB DuBois

Leave Your Mess At Home

A Guardian and A Thief

A Burning

While Gods Are Falling

Salt

Giovanni’s Room

Chapters: 

00:00 The Evolution of Rappers

02:48 Podcast Announcements and Upcoming Events

06:07 Book Discussions: The Hospital at the End of the World

08:56 Reading Comprehension and Literary Insights

11:54 Exploring Toni Morrison's Beloved

25:38 Understanding Toni Morrison's Impact

29:22 Personal Growth Through Literature

33:15 Exploring Diverse Literary Voices

39:00 The Role of Community in Literature

41:33 Navigating Personal Challenges and Literature

44:21 Critical Perspectives on Oprah's Book Club Picks

50:56 The Art of Storytelling

52:39 Cultural Influences in Literature

54:13 Exploring Diverse Narratives

56:23 The Johnson Four: Expectations vs. Reality

01:00:27 The Ghost Story That Wasn't

01:02:50 Perception vs. Reality in Book Recommendations

01:08:35 Celebrating Earl Lovelace's Legacy

💬 Follow The League of Extraordinary Readers:

📸 🎧 https://beacons.ai/tloer

📧Email Us: [email protected]

📱Follow us on socials:

IG&Threads: @theleagueofreaders

Shelbey’s IG&Threads: @shelbeymonae

Jess’s IG&Threads: @literaturenoirclub 

🪩 Church Announcements:

May Book Pick: (The Fervent Whites)https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-fervent-whites-a-novel-de-shawn-charles-winslow/be2d0ea2636cf5be?ean=9780593977910&next=t

(Decent People) https://bookshop.org/p/books/decent-people-de-shawn-charles-winslow/0e1094ad4dbc167c?ean=9781639733040&next=t 

In West Mills https://bookshop.org/p/books/in-west-mills-de-shawn-charles-winslow/57f091916a251a72?ean=9781635575286&next=t 

Big Boi TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTkWc6uBY/ 

TV/Movies:

The Pitt

House

Nature Boy Documentary

#TheLeagueOfExtraordinaryReaders #BookPodcast #BlackLiterature #DiverseReaders #BookReviews

🎙️ The League of Extraordinary Readers with Shelbey Monae & Jess is back with a lively, culture-forward conversation on books, publishing, and the evolving literary landscape.

This week, we dive into urban fiction, representation, ARCs, and book marketing, unpacking how social media shapes reading trends and the book community. We also highlight recent book festivals, including the LA Book Festival, and discuss the rise of celebrity imprints in publishing.

Plus, we honor Ernest J. Gaines in a special Praise For segment—reflecting on his life, legacy, and impact on African American literature, alongside comparisons to Zora Neale Hurston and James McBride.

✨ Expect book recommendations, industry insights, and real conversations about where literature is headed next.

Book Mentioned:

The Hospital at the End of The World

The Johnson Four

Erased

The Fervent Whites

The Great Wherever 

Yesteryear

Kindred

Beloved 

Paradise

Love

A Guardian and A Thief

A Lesson Before Dying

Of Love and Dust

Bits and Pieces

Pignon Scorbion & the Barbershop Detectives

Murder in Haxford

Soundtrack

Matriarch

Chapters

00:00 Urban Fiction and Representation

02:27 Personal Updates and Bookish Adventures

06:24 Reading Challenges and Library Experiences

09:15 Upcoming Interviews and Author Discussions

12:07 The Role of ARCs in Book Promotion

17:04 Trad Wives and Social Media Influences

25:40 The Journey to Healthier Living

29:14 Literary Reflections and Social Media Influences

37:09 Celebrating Ernest J. Gaines and His Legacy

45:01 Whoopi Goldberg's New Publishing Venture

50:08 Family Matters: Milestones and Memories

51:53 Literary Adventures: The LA Book Festival Experience

56:48 Insights from the Festival: Youth and Literature

01:02:27 Mama Tina: Family Dynamics and Humor

01:07:44 Book Festivals: Future Plans and Reflections

💬 Follow The League of Extraordinary Readers:

📸 🎧 https://beacons.ai/tloer

📧Email Us: [email protected]

📱Follow us on socials:

IG&Threads: @theleagueofreaders

Shelbey’s IG&Threads: @shelbeymonae

Jess’s IG&Threads: @literaturenoirclub 

Nikesha Williams IG: @nikesha_elise 

Nikesha’s Website: https://www.newwrites.com/ 

🪩 Church Announcements:

April Book Pick: https://bookshop.org/p/books/a-guardian-and-a-thief-oprah-s-book-club-a-novel-megha-majumdar/f0a2f151e6ca281c?ean=9780593804872&next=t

#TheLeagueOfExtraordinaryReaders #BookPodcast #BlackLiterature #DiverseReaders #BookReviews

🎙️ The League of Extraordinary Readers with Shelbey Monae & Jessica returns with a powerful conversation on books, culture, and representation.

This week, we discuss recent reads, literary conferences, and the future of storytelling in media, diving into the importance of authentic adaptations of Black literature and the real impact of book banning on diversity in publishing. We also highlight emerging Black authors, the role of anthologies, and key takeaways from the Children of Color Literary Conference.

✨ If you care about Black authors, diverse storytelling, and where literature is headed next, this episode is for you.

Book Mentioned:

But Where’s Home

Hospital At The End of the World

The Johnson Four

A Harlem Wedding

Family 

In Search of Satisfaction

That’s How They Get You

Out There Screaming

Black Women’s Writers at Work

Never Whistle At Night

The Fervent Whites

The Great Wherever

Kindred

Parable of the Sower

Passing

The Handmaid’s Tale

The Testaments

Beloved

The Wedding 

The Perfect Find

Lovecraft Country

Razorblade Tears

All The Sinner’s Bleed

TV Shows/Movies

The Pitt

Queen and Slim 

The Handmaid’s Tale

The Testaments

Passing

The Wedding

Beloved

The Perfect Find

Lovecraft Country

Shelbey’s Reading Vlog: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OWD_Hylds-Q 

Kweli Info:

Kweli IG: @kweli.journal 

Website https://www.kwelijournal.org/ 

💬 Follow The League of Extraordinary Readers:

📸 🎧 https://beacons.ai/tloer

📧Email Us: [email protected]

📱Follow us on socials:

IG&Threads: @theleagueofreaders

Shelbey’s IG&Threads: @shelbeymonae

Jess’s IG&Threads: @literaturenoirclub 

Nikesha Williams IG: @nikesha_elise 

Nikesha’s Website: https://www.newwrites.com/ 

🪩 Church Announcements:

April Book Pick: https://bookshop.org/p/books/a-guardian-and-a-thief-oprah-s-book-club-a-novel-megha-majumdar/f0a2f151e6ca281c?ean=9780593804872&next=t

#TheLeagueOfExtraordinaryReaders #BookPodcast #BlackLiterature #DiverseReaders #BookReviews

🎙️ The League of Extraordinary Readers with Shelbey Monae & Jessica is back with another dynamic conversation at the intersection of books, culture, and the publishing industry.

In this episode, we cover everything from surprising facts and reading slumps to book recommendations, Harlem Renaissance authors, and the realities of the publishing world. We dive into the business side of books—marketing, sales, and industry insights—while sharing personal stories and honest reflections on what it means to be a reader today.

✨ If you love book discussions, author insights, and behind-the-scenes publishing talk, this episode is for you.

⏱ TIMESTAMPS

00:00 Misconceptions About Camels

02:52 Exploring the Amazon Rainforest

06:00 Reading Slumps and Book Recommendations

08:45 Upcoming Events and Announcements

11:57 Praise for Nella Larsen and 'Passing'

27:46 The Legacy of Nella Larsen

31:04 The Evolution of Literary Access

35:54 The Impact of Spoilers on Reader Experience

47:40 Navigating the Publishing Landscape

📚 Books & Topics Mentioned:

Keeper of Lost Children

A Lesson Before Dying

The Johnson Four

Passing

Theirs

Rooted

Erased

Three Mothers

Battle For The Black Mind

The Great Wherever

The Responsible Party

The Seven Daughters of Dupree

Sula

Quicksand

Of Love and Dust

Women's Longlist: https://womensprize.com/prizes/womens-prize-for-fiction/ 

💬 Follow The League of Extraordinary Readers:

📸 🎧 https://beacons.ai/tloer

📧Email Us: [email protected]

📱Follow us on socials:

IG&Threads: @theleagueofreaders

Shelbey’s IG&Threads: @shelbeymonae

Jess’s IG&Threads: @literaturenoirclub 

Nikesha Williams IG: @nikesha_elise 

Nikesha’s Website: https://www.newwrites.com/ 

🪩 Church Announcements:

April Book Pick: https://bookshop.org/p/books/a-guardian-and-a-thief-oprah-s-book-club-a-novel-megha-majumdar/f0a2f151e6ca281c?ean=9780593804872&next=t

#TheLeagueOfExtraordinaryReaders #BookPodcast #BlackLiterature #DiverseReaders #BookReviews

🎙️ The League of Extraordinary Readers dives into modern dating, relationships, and the cultural forces shaping how we connect today.

In this episode, we unpack dating challenges, societal norms, and personal growth, blending honest stories with thoughtful conversations on literature, media, and representation. From reading slumps and book reviews to reality TV, romance, and evolving storytelling, this episode explores how culture influences both our relationships and the stories we consume.

✨ Expect real talk, bookish insights, and cultural commentary that connects life, love, and literature.

⏱ TIMESTAMPS
00:00 – Conversations & compatibility

02:41 – Dating & personal growth

05:47 – Reading slumps & book talk

08:40 – Nonfiction & learning freedom

11:39 – Literary discussions

14:25 – Storytelling & adaptations

17:23 – Character development

21:05 – Complex narratives

22:09 – Family dynamics

23:40 – Land ownership themes

25:35 – Cultural geography

30:48 – Reality TV & culture

33:19 – Book adaptations

37:09 – Beauty & business

45:02 – Bobby Brown beauty products

46:41 – Theirs by M. Bash

48:57 – Erotica & romance

52:49 – Representation in romance

58:03 – Writing evolution

01:01:01 – Upcoming reads

📚 Books & Topics Mentioned:

The Salteaters

A Lesson Before Dying

Kin

The Seven Daughters of Dupree

Trinity

The Battle For The Black Mind

Casualties of Truth

But Where’s Home?

Model Home

Something Blue

Rooted

Theirs

You Hide I’ll Seek

A Guardian and A Thief

The Fervent Whites

On Witness and Respair 

TV:

Homicide

Paradise

Alex Cross

Scarpetta

The CEO Club

Women's Longlist: https://womensprize.com/prizes/womens-prize-for-fiction/ 

💬 Follow The League of Extraordinary Readers:

📸 🎧 https://beacons.ai/tloer

📧Email Us: [email protected]

📱Follow us on socials:

IG&Threads: @theleagueofreaders

Shelbey’s IG&Threads: @shelbeymonae

Jess’s IG&Threads: @literaturenoirclub 

Nikesha Williams IG: @nikesha_elise 

Nikesha’s Website: https://www.newwrites.com/ 

🪩 Church Announcements:

April Book Pick: https://bookshop.org/p/books/a-guardian-and-a-thief-oprah-s-book-club-a-novel-megha-majumdar/f0a2f151e6ca281c?ean=9780593804872&next=t

#TheLeagueOfExtraordinaryReaders #BookPodcast #BlackLiterature #DiverseReaders #BookReviews

🎙️ The League of Extraordinary Readers sits down with Nikesha Elise Williams to discuss her debut novel, the power of storytelling, and the healing work of historical fiction.

In this episode, Nikesha shares her publishing journey, her approach to writing generational trauma, and how spirituality, obedience, and creativity shape her work. We explore character development, identity, journalism, and the role of storytelling as both craft and calling.

From historical fiction to future genre explorations, this conversation highlights the impact of Black literature, representation, and building a meaningful literary ecosystem.

✨ Perfect for readers and writers who love historical fiction, Black authors, and conversations about creativity, healing, and storytelling.

⏱ TIMESTAMPS
00:00 – Introduction & guest intro

01:12 – Book tour experience & reception

02:53 – The impact of historical fiction

06:12 – Generational trauma in literature

09:43 – Character development & perspectives

13:53 – The evolution of the story

19:10 – The role of women in society

19:31 – Journalism & storytelling

25:14 – Journalism vs content creation

26:21 – Character development deep dive

27:32 – Access, identity & themes

29:24 – Literature & understanding passing

31:19 – Book covers & marketing

35:18 – Writing as a coping mechanism

38:32 – Spirituality of creation

41:01 – Podcasting & community

47:21 – Future writing projects

49:33 – Satire & sci-fi exploration

50:59 – Representation in storytelling

51:59 – Reading slumps & discoveries

53:25 – Audiobooks & celebrity narrators

54:29 – Cultural reflections on Florida

57:22 – This or That (fun segment)

59:59 – Fantasy worlds & time periods

01:03:45 – Socials & closing thoughts

📚 Books & Topics Mentioned:

The Seven Daughter of Dupree

Passing

Personal Librarian

All We Were Promised

Inharmonious

Yellow Wife

Kitty Carr

The Vanishing Half

The Wedding

Trinity

Coleman Hill

Good Woman

Kin

A Lesson Before Dying

Judge Stone

Blood at the Root

Children of Blood and Bone

Women's Longlist: https://womensprize.com/prizes/womens-prize-for-fiction/ 

💬 Follow The League of Extraordinary Readers:

📸 🎧 https://beacons.ai/tloer

📧Email Us: [email protected]

📱Follow us on socials:

IG&Threads: @theleagueofreaders

Shelbey’s IG&Threads: @shelbeymonae

Jess’s IG&Threads: @literaturenoirclub 

Nikesha Williams IG: @nikesha_elise 

Nikesha’s Website: https://www.newwrites.com/ 

🪩 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