The Bookshop Podcast

From the rain-soaked dreams of a young girl in Manchester, New Hampshire, to swimming in some of the world's most formidable waters, open water swimmer, writer, motivational speaker, and beacon of inspiration, Lynn Cox has lived a tale of endurance.

Over the course of more than 35 years, Lynne accomplished swims setting world records, opening borders, contributed to medical research, supported environmental causes, and inspired people to pursue their dreams.  At age 14 she swam 26 miles from Catalina Island to the California mainland. At ages 15 and 16, she broke the men’s and women’s world records for swimming the English Channel—a 33-mile crossing in 9 hours, 33 minutes, achieving her first record as the youngest and fastest in 1972. At age 18, she swam the 20-mile Cook Strait between North and South Islands of New Zealand. She was also the first to swim the Cape of Good Hope and the Strait of Magellan, the latter being the most treacherous 3-mile stretch of water in the world.

Lynne is best known for her swim across the Bering Strait on 7 August 1987. The swim opened the border between the US and Soviet Union. Both US President Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev hailed her accomplishment at the signing of the INF Missile Treaty at the White House. 

As a world-class athlete, Lynne has championed the sport of open-water swimming, advocated for Title IX, and managed the U.S. women’s water polo and led efforts to establish women’s water polo as an Olympic sport.

Lynne's books include Swimming to Antarctica, Grayson, Open Swimming Manual, Elizabeth, Queen of the Seas, Swimming in the Sink, and Tales of Al The Water Rescue Dog.

Lynne Cox

Lynne Cox Books

This Is Love 

Swimming to Antarctica: Tales of a Long-Distance Swimmer, Lynne Cox

Grayson, Lynne Cox

Yoshi, Sea Turtle Genius, Lynne Cox

Tales of Al:The Water Rescue Dog, Lynne Cox

Swimming in the Sink: A Memoir, Lynne Cox

South of the Sun: Roald Amundsen, His Polar Explorations, and the Quest for Discovery, Lynne Cox

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Mandy Jackson-Beverly
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In this epsidoe, I chat with Deborah Alma, the visionary co-founder of the Poetry Pharmacy, in Shropshire, UK, about how poetic verses can be the balm for our emotional ailments. Our conversation flourishes through Deborah’s inspiring tale of the ‘emergency poet’ and her evolution towards establishing a tranquil sanctuary where poetry is the prescription. The nooks and crannies of this episode are filled with insights into how the vintage ambulance that once delivered urgent poetic care transformed into a physical haven, complete with a coffee shop for contemplative sips and a physic garden where thoughts can bloom into written words.

My own odyssey intertwines with the narrative tapestry of this episode, weaving through a life rich with varied careers, from the bustling streets of London to the serene landscapes of Wyoming. Literature has been the compass guiding me across continents to my heartfelt involvement in community engagement, culminating in the creation of this podcast amidst the uncertainties of a global pandemic. Together with Deborah Alma's enchanting story, we celebrate the diverse and colorful lives that shape the literary world, reminding us that amidst the shelves and pages of independent bookshops lies the connective power of storytelling that unites us all.

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Mandy Jackson-Beverly
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In this episode, Maxine Mei-Fung Chung shares a glimpse into the psyche's profound influence on creativity and personal growth. I found my own experiences with psychoanalysis echoed in our dialogue, highlighting the transformative power it has on both the canvas, the page, and the mind. Maxine's articulate distinction between psychoanalysis and other therapeutic forms paints a vivid picture of the therapeutic landscape. At the same time, her personal narrative and the profound impact of her beloved childhood librarian provide a rich backdrop to her professional evolution.

Maxine discusses her literary contributions, notably her latest book, What Women Want: A Therapist, Her Patients, and Their True Stories of Desire, Power, and Love, which delves beyond Freud's well-trodden question—what do women want?—to celebrate the authentic needs and desires of women.

Maxine's first novel, The Eighth Girl, was optioned by Netflix and was a most anticipated book from Bustle, The Rumpus, Electric Literature, and LitHub.

In  What Women Want, Maxine emphasizes the empathic and advocacy-oriented nature of her writing, inviting readers on a journey of self-discovery. This episode is a tribute to the potency of psychotherapy's intersection with storytelling, an intimate exploration for anyone fascinated by the depths of the human experience.

Maxine Mei-Fung Chung
What Women Want: A Therapist, Her Patients, and Thier True Stories of Desire, Power, and Love, Maxine Mei-Fung Chung
The Eighth Girl, Maxine Mei-Fung Chung
Long Live Our Librarians: An Ode To Mrs. Veal, Maxine Mei-Fung Chung
The Marriage Portrait, Maggie O'Farrell
American Originality: Essays on Poetry, Louis Glück

The Bookshop Podcast
Mandy Jackson-Beverly
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Have you ever wandered into a bookstore and felt like you've come home? That's the magic Ariana Paliobagis, owner of Country Bookshop and her team, weaves in Bozeman, Montana.  In this episode, I speak with store manager Jamie Winter about the rich literary landscape of Montana, where names like Ivan Doig and Betsy Gaines Quammen are as much a part of the territory as the Rocky Mountains. 

Country Bookshelf is a local, independent bookstore located in historic downtown Bozeman, Montana. It’s the place where people go to feel part of their community, of something bigger than themselves, a place to experience the power of literature and conversation, a place to feel safe, not judged, and encouraged to explore ideas and identities. This is the bookstore everyone dreams of — two floors of hand-selected volumes, knowledgeable, caring staff, and events to expand horizons. 

Country Bookshelf

Betsy Gaines Quammen

Ivan Doig

 Norman MacLean

 Seanan McGuire

 House of Flame and Shadow, Sarah J. Maas

 The Last Murder at the End of the World, Stuart Turton

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Mandy Jackson-Beverly
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When the roots of storytelling are as deep and winding as the Appalachian Mountains themselves, it's no wonder that Melissa Marr has such a profound connection to weaving tales that captivate and enchant. In this episode, we journey through Melissa's life, from her formative years under the influence of her grandmother's stories to her academic pursuits, all of which paved the way to her latest novel, Remedial Magic. We explore how Melissa's narrative prowess transcends genre, her devotion to multiple points of view, and the unmistakable charm of Victorian literature's impact on her storytelling techniques.

The whispers of wild horses in Arizona and the serendipity of a rattlesnake bite converge in Melissa's narrative, illustrating the unexpected paths of dipping her toes into self-publishing and the resilience of an author's spirit. Our conversation then meanders through the verdant valleys of creativity, shedding light on the symbiosis between nature and the written word, and how this bond manifests in Melissa's multifaceted career spanning writing and photography. We also navigate the digital world's choppy waters, where pseudonyms and review scandals can capsize even the most seasoned writers, revealing the importance of author communities as lifeboats amidst the storm of online discourse.

As we wrap up, the spotlight shines on the unlikely transformation from a self-published experiment to a celebrated book deal, a testament to faith in one's work and the magic of happenstance. Melissa's tale takes a full circle, encouraging us to anticipate her upcoming release and beckoning our listeners to join the lively discussion within our podcast community. The episode is a reminder that sometimes, the most enchanting stories are those that emerge from life's most unexpected moments.

Melissa Marr

Remedial Magic, Melissa Marr

To Cage a God, Elizabeth May

River Kings, Cat Jarman

NPR LAist

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Embark on a literary adventure with Mandy Jackson-Beverly as she sits down with Eric and Jessica Green, whose love story with books has led them to become the proud owners of Mrs. Dalloway's, a cozy independent bookstore with a big heart in the Elmwood District of Berkeley, California. Their tale is not just one of passion for the written word but also a savvy move to keep the legacy of a beloved community hub alive, blending Eric's deep roots in book sales (wholesale and distribution) and book buying and Jessica's flair for branding,  marketing, and sales. Together, they're writing a new chapter for the store, infusing it with their commitment to quality, eco-conscious selections, and a mirroring of the vibrant Elmwood community spirit.

The art of curating a bookstore is much like composing a symphony, where every book is a note that resonates with the soul of the neighborhood. In this episode, the Greens discuss the delicate balance between honoring the legacy of Mrs. Dalloway's previous owners and introducing their unique touch to the store's offerings. They reveal how they navigate the complexities of stocking self-published works and the intricacies of book pricing, providing a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to run a successful indie bookstore amid the ever-shifting tides of the publishing world.

Our episode wraps up with an inspiring call to action for literary enthusiasts to connect with and support their local independent bookshops. The Greens open up about the joys and challenges of hosting author events, nurturing a love of reading in their community, and the fulfillment that comes from seeing the wonder in a child's eyes as they discover their new favorite book. So tune in and let the charm of Mrs. Dalloway's, along with the passion of its owners, remind you why independent bookstores are the heartbeats of our literary landscapes.
Mrs. Dalloway’s Bookstore

Wandering Stars, Tommy Orange 

Bel Canto, Ann Patchett

The Morningside, Téa Obreht

Last Acts, Alexander Sammartino

The Puzzled Master, Danielle Trussoni

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Mandy Jackson-Beverly
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As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, we're reminded that change is the only constant, a truth Chloe Benjamin knows all too well. This week on The Bookshop Podcast, join me for a profound journey with the author of The Anatomy of Dreams and The Immortalists as we navigate the intertwining paths of creativity and self-care. Chloe opens up about the alchemy of storytelling sparked in her youth and the vigilant balancing act between the fervor of art and the necessity of wellness, a dance many of us know too well. Her insights provide a map for writers and dreamers to chart a course through the tumultuous waters of a freelance career, steering clear of the siren call of commercialized self-care and wellness.

Venture further into the heart of Chloe's work as we discuss the rich tapestry of The Immortalists. Chloe's dedication to authenticity breathes life into historical narratives, and her exploration of mind-body techniques presents a beacon of hope for those seeking solace from their internal storms. This episode is a testament to the transformative power of literature, allowing us to reflect on the threads of our own lives which mirror the characters we come to cherish.

Completing our literary odyssey, we lift the veil on the often enigmatic world of publishing, offering solace and guidance to emerging writers navigating this labyrinth. Chloe's experience demystifies the journey from penning the first word to holding a published book in hand. Our conversation expands to celebrate the written word's power to heal, inspire, and transport us to realms unknown, with recommendations that will ignite readers' imaginations and perhaps even inspire a few to embrace the meditative quietude that has touched Chloe's life. So, settle in with your favorite feline companion and prepare to be whisked away by one of my favorite contemporary authors as we converse about life, health, and writing on this episode of The Bookshop Podcast.

Chloe Benjamin

The Anatomy of Dreams, Chloe Benjamin

The Immortalists, Chloe Benjamin

#22 – Chloe Benjamin The Sewanee Review

Vita Nostra, Marina & Sergey Dyachenko

Assassin of Realty, Marina & Sergey Dyachenko

Braiding Sweetgrass, Robin Wall Kimmerer

LIN Health

The Sparrow, Mary Doria-Russell

FeedSpot 20 Best Bibliophile Podcasts

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In this episode, I chat with Diana Raab, MFA, PhD,  about writing, intergenerational trauma, the art of writing memoir, and her new book, Hummingbird: Messages from My Ancestors, A memoir with reflection and writing prompts .

Diana is a memoirist, poet, workshop leader, thought-leader and award-winning author of fourteen books. Her work has been widely published and anthologized. She frequently speaks and writes on writing for healing and transformation. 

Raab blogs for Psychology Today, The Wisdom Daily, The Good Men Project, Thrive Global, and is a guest blogger for many others. Visit her at: https:/www.dianaraab.com.

 Raab lives in Southern California.

 Diana Raab

Hummingbird: Messages from my Ancestors, Diana Raab

Gen Z Information:

Talk With Zach (Zach Gottlieb)

Dr. Yalda T. Uhls, Founder Center For Scholars & Storytellers

Gen Z For Change

Books by Thich Nhat Hanh

One Long River, Brian Doyle

The Bookshop Podcast
Mandy Jackson-Beverly
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The Bookshop Podcast
Mandy Jackson-Beverly
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Embark on a cultural odyssey with Jamie Richards, a consummate artist of literary translation. Our exchange unveils Jamie's accidental yet fateful plunge into the realm of translation, alongside her storied career, marked by venerated honors and a discerning taste for the literary unexplored. The episode unwraps the nuanced art of translation through Jamie's latest endeavor, Marosia Castaldi's The Hunger of Women, and her anecdotes about meeting Castaldi in the scenic Navigli district of Milan, shining light on the profound relationship between an author and their translator.

Step into a spirited dialogue that traverses the mosaic of literary translation, where the spirit of cities like Naples and Milan breathe life into the narratives they house. The conversation takes a turn towards the burgeoning influence of AI, juxtaposing its potential utility with the irreplaceable touch of human finesse. We address the surge in the allure of translated literature, and how this renaissance is sculpting the global literary stage. Join us in celebrating the transformation in the publishing world, with a salute to diversity, independent bookshops, and small presses—the pillars of this richly transforming milieu. Jamie also offers a peek into the profound works that stir a translator's spirit, rounding off a session that applauds the craft of translation and the boundless beauty of language and story that unites us across borders.
Jamie Richards

The Hunger of Women, Marosia Castaldi

Explosion in a Cathedral, Alejo Carpentier

The House on Via Gemito, Domenico Starnone 

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Mandy Jackson-Beverly
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Join the celebration as The Bookshop Podcast hits a fantastic milestone, receiving the accolade of the number one bookish podcast by Feedspot.com! In a heartfelt expression of gratitude, I want to extend a massive thank you to everyone who tunes in and to our dedicated team. This episode is a special one, as I'm joined by Leonard Fernandes, a trailblazer in India's literary scene, the co-founder of The Dogears Bookshop and CinnamonTeal Publishing in picturesque Goa. Discover Leonard's riveting pivot from an engineering career to establishing the first self-publishing platform in India, and how he's transformed a cozy bookshop in Southern Goa into a thriving cultural haven.

Our conversation is a treasure trove of insights, from the meticulous art of translating literature to celebrating Goa's mesmerizing blend of Portuguese and Indian cultures. Leonard and I traverse the unique events The Dogears Bookshop hosts, which serve both as a window into Goa's soul and as a beacon for community engagement. Recommendations for experiencing Goa's rich heritage, from its architectural marvels to its stunning coastline, are sure to spark wanderlust. Moreover, we revel in Leonard's prestigious recognition by the British Council, emphasizing him as the Young Creative Entrepreneur Award for Publishing. Leonard and co-founder, Queenie Rodrigues, strive to enrich the literary landscape and connect the threads of community.

The Dogears Bookshop

Feedspot 20 Best Bibliophile Podcasts 2023

Days at the Morisaki Bookshop, Satoshi Yagisawa (author), Eric Ozawa (translator)

The Little Paris Bookshop, Nina George

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Have you ever found yourself scrolling through your feed, feeling more disconnected from the world around you with every passing second? This week, I sat down with the insightful Julio Vincent Gambuto, author of Please Unsubscribe, Thanks! and the mind behind the essay that took the internet by storm, Prepare for the Ultimate Gaslighting. Through the intimate recounting of his own story, from modest upbringing to the halls of Harvard, Julio helps us navigate the complex web of cultural and economic disparities that shape our lives. Alongside insights from author, Ali Wenzke, we traverse the rocky terrain of life's challenges and the critical role of social ties in overcoming them.

As the conversation unfolds, we confront the pervasive shadow that is loneliness, an affliction magnified by the pandemic and dissected through the eyes of former Surgeon General Dr. Vivek H. Murthy. The stark realities of our individualistic society come to light, revealing how our relentless pursuit of success might actually be leading us away from genuine human connection. This episode isn't just about examining the societal constructs that breed isolation; it's a call to action for each of us to rekindle the bonds that make us human, across all ages and walks of life.

Finally, as we reflect on the recent global pause, we're prompted to question the fast-paced automation of our lives and the true cost of convenience. We celebrate the companies like Patagonia that are blazing trails toward a more balanced approach, where employee well-being is more than a hollow perk—it's the cornerstone of a sustainable future. Join me for a profound look at how we can emerge from these challenging times not just unscathed, but enriched, with a renewed appreciation for what it means to be part of a community.
Julio Vincent Gambuto

Please Unsubscribe, Thanks!, Julio Vincent Gambuto

How to Stay Married: The Most Insane Love Story Ever Told, Harrison Scott Key 

The Art of Happy Moving, Ali Wenzke

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Mandy Jackson-Beverly
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Today, we're hitting the cobblestones of Charleston, South Carolina, unlocking the secrets of independent bookstores and the joy they bring to local communities. First, we're charmed by Polly Buxton, the passionate founder of Buxton Books, as she recounts how a single conversation with her (now) husband led to her dream of owning a bookstore. Polly, a resident cheerleader for local authors and issues, talks about the bookstore's unique book-based walking tours and important community conversations they host. Her love for books and Charleston is infectious!

Polly talks about the curation process at Buxton Books which is heavily influenced by the authors they host for events and stresses the importance of supporting newly published books and authors, and how this sustains the larger publishing ecosystem. She introduces us to a handful of popular local authors and discusses the distinct style of Southern writers. As the episode draws to a close, Polly shares her excitement about the Charleston Literary Festival, hosting author events, and discusses upcoming books hitting the shelves. So, settle in, sip that sweet tea and join us on this enchanting journey through the world of Buxton Books and book-based walking tours in Charleston, South Carolina.

Buxton Books

Absolution, Alice McDermott

Claire Keegan Books

Redwood Court, Délana R. a. Dameron

Brad Taylor Books

Sue Monk Kidd Books

Josephine Humphreys Books

Pat Conroy Books

New York Times Article 36 Hours, Charleston, S.C. 

Why I Love Indie Bookshops, Mandy Jackson -Beverly

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Ever wonder how an economist turned lawyer found her true calling in the world of creative writing? We embark on a fascinating exploration of Nina Schuyler's journey, her love for incorporating Japanese culture in her novels and the intriguing blend of mathematics and Japanese culture that blossoms in her latest novel, AFTERWORD.

Does beauty have the power to transcend suffering? We engage in an in-depth discussion about Schuyler's characters Haru and Virginia in AFTERWORD. Their journey unveils how their intellectual bond empowers Virginia to overcome societal barriers and kindle her love for math. We also touch upon the themes of loneliness, grief, identity, and longing that are woven throughout their story. In an age of technological reliance, we also explore the intricate relationships between humans and machines that Schuyler beautifully crafts in her narrative.

Are we ready for a future governed by artificial intelligence? Schuyler's fascination with AI and its implications on language forms a captivating part of our conversation. We uncover the power of opening paragraphs in a novel, exploring the emotional engagement of readers, the lure of precise imprecision, and the enormous impact artificial intelligence can have on language. We also delve into Schuyler's teaching experiences, her current reading list, and her unique substack where she dissects mesmerizing sentences from published works.

Nina Schuyler’s short story collection, In this Ravishing World, won the W.S. Porter Prize for Short Story Collections and The Prism Prize for Climate Literature, and will be published by Regal House Publishing in 2024. Her novel, The Translator, won the Next Generation Indie Book Award for General Fiction and was a finalist for the William Saroyan International Writing Prize. Her novel, The Painting, was a finalist for the Northern California Book Award. Her book, How to Write Stunning Sentences, was a Small Press Distribution bestseller, and her new craft book, Stunning Sentences: The Creative Writing Journal with 80 New Prompts from Beloved Authors to Improve Your Style, was published by Fiction Advocate in November 2022.

She teaches creative writing at the University of San Francisco, Stanford Continuing Studies, and for the independent bookstore, Book Passage, and The Writing Room. She writes a column about prose style for Fiction Advocate and reviews books for The Millions. She lives in Northern California with her husband and two sons, where she hikes, bodysurfs, and writes in a small room, looking out at a tall palm tree.

Nina Schuyler

AFTERWORD, Nina Schuyler

The Painting, Nina Schuyler

How to Write Stunning Sentences, Nina Schuyler

In This Ravishing World, Nina Schuyler

The Translator, Nina Schuyler

Book Passage and Elaine Petrocelli on The Bookshop Podcast

The Face of Another, Kobo Abe

How to Read Lacan, Slavoj Zizek

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Ark Books in Copenhagen is a non-profit, volunteer-run, International Bookstore. It’s the place to find books published in English, and although they specialize in fiction, those interested in poetry and theory, especially critical theory, will not leave disappointed.

Ever wondered how a volunteer-run, non-profit bookstore operates and thrives in the bustling city of Copenhagen? Join us in conversation with Frida Hammershøy from Ark Books, a unique bookstore specializing in books published in English. Frida unravels the history of Ark Books, crafted by four women a decade ago, and its evolution into a vibrant community hub uniting a diverse team of 15-20 passionate volunteers.

We also get a peek into Frida's personal reading preferences and discuss the nuances of translating literary discussions from Danish to English. Prepare yourself for a heartening tale of literature, community, and dedication - a testament to the power of shared passion.

Ark Books

The Summer Book, Tove Jansson

The Moomins, Tove Jansson

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Ready for a deep dive into the world of writing and publishing? Join me as I chat with author Paul Vidich who traded his corporate media suit for a writer's pen. We'll traverse through his personal anecdotes revealing the inspiration behind his latest novel, Beirut Station.  Vidich shares the artistic process behind the book's cover design and we discuss Erroll Morris's newest documentary, The Pigeon Tunnel.

In the same breath, we gear up to navigate the labyrinth of ethical dilemmas in cultures and organizations. Are you a fan of espionage novels? Well, buckle up as we decipher the moral grey areas and high-stress environments faced by the characters in Beirut Station. The conversation extends to the complexities of the publishing industry, reminding us of the crucial role that indie bookshops play for authors and readers alike. 

Paul Vidich

The Pigeon Tunnel,  Errol Morris

Wormwood, Errol Morris

Beirut Station: Two Lives of a Spy, Paul Vidich 

Los Alamos, Joseph Kanon

The Peacock And The Sparrow, I. S. Berry

The Talented Mr. Ripley, Patricia Highsmith

Rebecca, Daphne Du Maurier

Wuthering Heights, Emily Bronte

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Ever wondered how someone can transition from lawyering to managing an independent bookstore? Meet Jen Bird, the co-founder of Athena Books located in Old Greenwich, Connecticut. As a former lawyer, her unique journey to entrepreneurship promises not only to inspire but also to challenge your perception about career change. She shares how her passion for reading, primarily to her children, became the foundation for this incredible venture, with the bookstore's name and its meaning being an interesting twist to their story.

Athena Books isn't just a bookshop, it is a collaborative, women-focused space with a mission to advance reading culture and community engagement. Jen takes us through her strategic approach to book curation targeted at her community's needs and the pivotal role of organizations like the American Booksellers Association in her success story. Hear from her perspective the evolution of bookselling, the importance of creating an accessible and inclusive environment, and how Athena Books is navigating this dynamic industry.

Step into the world of Athena Books, a haven for diverse age groups and book genres. Find out what book genres are making the rounds in Old Greenwich and get a scoop on the attractions around for the perfect bookish getaway. If you're passionate about independent bookstores, community building, or you're just in for a good story, this episode is your ticket!

Athena Books

She Proclaims: Our Declaration of Independence from a Man’s World, Jennifer Palmieri

Demon Copperhead, Barbara Kingsolver

Tom Lake, Ann Patchett

Going Infinite: The Rise and Fall of a New Tycoon, Michael Lewis 

What You Are Looking For Is In The Library, Michiko Aoyama

The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny and Murder, David Grann

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Imagine having an indie bookstore all to yourself for an entire night. Join me in this episode as I chat with fellow book lover and  Bookstagrammer, Dr. Stefanie Caeners, a Literary Studies lecturer who had just that experience. We talk about indie bookshops,  books we love, Edinburgh, and reading.

Stefanie's journey is a fascinating one. From discovering her love for Southern California at the tender age of 16, choosing an office job over college, to her apprenticeship in the media business, and finally, her transition into studying literature, it's a story worth hearing.

Stefanie's passion for British literature will captivate you, as will her insights on the topic of her PhD thesis and the freedom she found in studying something she adored.

Dr. Sefanie Caeners

Stefanie on Instagram

The Wishing Game, Meg Shaffer

Books by Stephen King

A Quiet Life, Ethan Joella

Yellowface, Rebecca F. Kuang

Farrell Covington and the Limits of Style, Paul Rudnick

James Fahy

The Displacements, Bruce Holsinger

The House in the Cerulean Sea, TJ Klune

Days at the Morisaki Bookshop, Satoshi Yagisawa

James Fahy The Bookshop Podcast

Paul Rudnick the Bookshop Podcast

TJ Klune The Bookshop Podcast

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In this episode I chat with illustrator and author, Rachel Ignotofsky about blending illustration and education, crayons, women in STEM, and her latest book, What's Inside A Caterpillar Cocoon?

Rachel Ignotofsky is a New York Times Best Selling author and illustrator, based in California. She grew up in New Jersey on a healthy diet of Star Trek and pudding and graduated from Tyler School of Art in 2011 with a BFA in Graphic Design.  Rachel’s career as a scientific communicator started by nurturing her own curiosity. Out of college, she created art and infographics about topics she found interesting and important- with a focus in science literacy. She had many friends starting their careers in teaching, and Rachel wanted to create resources to help them with their lessons. Soon Rachel’s online store was selling her posters to schools, labs and science enthusiasts across the country and her work was scooped up to be featured on the likes of Scientific American, Fast Company, PRI and PBS. Rachel’s art has been embraced by the science community and she has spoken at and partnered with institutions like NASA, The Salk Institute, The San Diego Natural History Museum, The Chicago Field Museum, The Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory of Columbia University and many more! 

Rachel believes when you take the time to organize complex information—and then take the next step to make it beautiful with art — you can reach even the most reluctant learner. Illustration is a powerful tool when it comes to education.  With her first book Women in Science (2016), Rachel used her art to address the growing gender gap in STEM and shed a light on women’s stories. It became an instant success and was on the NY Times Best seller list for over 90 weeks. 

Since then, Rachel has continued to use her background in graphic design and her skills as a storyteller to make dense information and fun and accessible. Her work is published in over 24 different languages and enjoyed by readers all over the world! She has written more books about women’s history like Women in Sports (2017) and Women in Art (2019). As well as tackling topics like conservation and climate change in her book The Wondrous Workings of Planet Earth (2018). She has introduced backyard biology to the youngest readers with What’s Inside a Flower? (2021) which is the first installment of her new picture book series with Random House Kids. Now she is excited to share her newest book The History of the Computer (2022). This book is the first of its kind — a fully illustrated book that spans over 25,000 years of human history and tells the story of our evolving relationship with technology. Rachel sees all of her books as a love note to educators, and is thrilled to see them used in classrooms.

Rachel Ignotofsky

Rachel’s Etsy Shop

Rachel’s Books

The Rise and Fall of the Dinosaurs, Steve Brusatte

The Rise and Reign of the Mammals, Steve Brusatte

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Ever wonder how a small indie bookstore doesn't just survive, but thrive in today's digital age? Meet Sheryl Shurville, the dynamic co-owner of the Chiltern Bookshops; Chorleywood and Gerrards Cross in the UK. Sheryl's fascinating journey from nursing to bookselling is one that will inspire you, as she shares the secrets behind the success of her bookshops. From celebrating Chorleywood Bookshop's 50-year anniversary to discussing the distinct curation of books in her two bookshops, Sheryl's anecdotes are a treat for every book lover.

Sheryl gives insight into the extensive school programs and unique services her bookshops offer, including their response to COVID with a pre-ordering system and the creation of the “Gift A Book” donation program. Sheryl's observations of the changing publishing landscape and how her bookshops have managed to evolve, are particularly enlightening. From organizing literary festivals to cheese tastings, her innovation is impressive. Her current reads, her dedication to community engagement, and the passion she pours into her bookshops make this episode an enlightening journey into the world of indie bookselling.
Chiltern Bookshops – Chorleywood and Gerrards Cross

Maggie O’Farrell Books

Barbara Kingsolver Books

Unlawful Killing, Wendy Joseph KC

David Mitchell Books

Yotam Ottolenghi Books

Toni Morrison Books

Ian McEwan Books

Katherine Heiny Books

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