Currently Reading

Season 8, Episode 8: Wordy Card Games + All Things Pre-Order

September 22, 2025

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  • The podcast "Currently Reading" focuses on spoiler-free discussions of recently read books, with hosts Meredith and Katie sharing strong opinions and bookish insights. 
  • The hosts discussed the adaptation of "The Thursday Murder Club" as a successful book-to-screen translation, highlighting Pierce Brosnan's performance as a standout. 
  • The deep dive segment explored the decision-making process behind pre-ordering books, emphasizing support for authors and the strategic use of pre-orders for both personal enjoyment and author success. 
  • Katie has read all six Robert Langdon books by Dan Brown and enjoys the series for its blend of science, mystery, and obscure religious history, even if not every book is a perfect hit. 
  • The hosts are anticipating a new book, possibly by Dan Brown, due to positive buzz and its perceived similarity to 'The DaVinci Code'. 
  • The podcast is produced and edited by Megan Putabong Evans, with special thanks to Chrissy Whitley for filling in, and listeners are encouraged to connect via Instagram, email, and by becoming a 'bookish friend' for more content. 

Segments

Bookish Moments: TV Adaptation
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(00:00:11)
  • Key Takeaway: The adaptation of “The Thursday Murder Club” on Netflix is praised for its faithful and enjoyable portrayal of the beloved book, with Pierce Brosnan’s performance as Ron being a particular highlight.
  • Summary: Meredith shares her excitement about the “Thursday Murder Club” adaptation, discussing the casting and her positive reception of the film, while Katie expresses anticipation for watching it.
Bookish Moments: Word Games
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(00:05:45)
  • Key Takeaway: Games like “Don’t Say Um” and “Quiddler” are recommended as engaging, bookish activities that promote language skills and shared enjoyment for word enthusiasts.
  • Summary: Katie introduces “Don’t Say Um” as a fun game that helps avoid crutch words, and also recommends “Quiddler” as a card game similar to Scrabble for word lovers.
Current Reads: Janice Hallett
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(00:09:13)
  • Key Takeaway: Janice Hallett’s “The Killer Question” uses a compelling mixed-media format but suffers from a repetitive middle section, making it a less successful entry compared to her previous acclaimed works.
  • Summary: Meredith reviews “The Killer Question,” praising its unique format and initial intrigue but noting a significant dip in pacing and engagement in the middle, ultimately recommending her earlier books as better starting points.
Deep Dive: Pre-Order Decisions
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(00:41:03)
  • Key Takeaway: Pre-ordering books is a strategic decision influenced by author loyalty, the desire for special editions, and the importance of supporting authors, with options ranging from independent bookstores to library requests.
  • Summary: The hosts discuss their personal strategies for pre-ordering books, including supporting favorite authors, choosing formats, and utilizing independent bookstores or library pre-order systems.
Robert Langdon Book Discussion
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(00:57:48)
  • Key Takeaway: Katie has read all six Robert Langdon books and finds the latest one reminiscent of ‘The DaVinci Code’ in its appeal, enjoying the series’ blend of science, mystery, and religious history.
  • Summary: The conversation begins with a question about whether Katie has read all six Robert Langdon books. She confirms she has, and discusses her enjoyment of the series, particularly how the new book feels like ‘The DaVinci Code’ and appeals to her interests in science, mystery, and religious history.
Podcast Credits and Socials
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(00:59:06)
  • Key Takeaway: Listeners can connect with the podcast hosts, Meredith and Katie, on Instagram, and find production credits for Megan Putabong Evans, with thanks extended to Chrissy Whitley for her subbing work.
  • Summary: The hosts transition to wrapping up the episode, providing their social media handles (Meredith at Meredith Monday Schwartz, Katie at Notes on Bookmarks) and crediting Megan Putabong Evans for production, also thanking Chrissy Whitley for her assistance.
Show Notes and Support
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(00:59:36)
  • Key Takeaway: Full show notes with book titles and timestamps are available on the podcast website, and listeners can support the show through ‘bookish friend’ subscriptions, ratings, reviews, and social media shout-outs.
  • Summary: Information about where to find show notes, including book titles and timestamps, is shared. Listeners are encouraged to support the podcast by becoming ‘bookish friends’ for additional content and to keep the show commercial-free, as well as by rating, reviewing, and sharing on social media.