Is 2026 The Year of Book Monoculture?
Summary
Sam Sanders explores the 2026 "book monoculture" with guests Tracy Thomas and Greta Johnson, debating whether reading is thriving or declining in the digital age. They discuss cultural phenomena like *Strangers* and *John of John*, critique the novel *Yesteryear*, and address concerns about diminishing media literacy. The episode concludes with book recommendations, including Marlon James’s *The Disappearance*, Terri Jones’s *Kin*, and Justine van der Loon’s *Unreasonable Women*.
Topics discussed
Intro: Book monoculture vs. post-literate society
Guest introductions and the 'books year' debate
Why 2026 is a huge year for book releases
Discussion on 'Strangers' and its cultural impact
Gay monoculture moment: 'John of John'
Critique of the novel 'Yesteryear'
The 'End of Reading' and declining media literacy
Systemic collapse and the importance of reading for fun
Tips for fostering a culture of reading
Recommendation: 'The Disappearance' by Marlon James
Recommendation: 'The Great Wherever' by Shannon Sanders
Recommendation: 'Kin' by Teri Jones
Recommendation: 'Sunrise' by Tea Obrechet
Recommendation: 'Unreasonable Women' by Justine van der Loon
Final verdict on the book year and show credits
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