In this episode, I chat with Wendy, a passionate bibliophile and bookseller from Nairobi. We explore Wendy's journey into the world of books, the establishment of her bookstore Soma Nami, and the contrasting literary cultures of Nairobi and Lagos. The conversation delves into book recommendations, the importance of reading diverse authors, and the challenges of navigating the literary scene. Wendy shares her top book picks, critiques a disappointing read, and expresses her desires for the future of reading, including the need for more authentic local stories. The episode concludes with practical tips for overcoming reading slumps.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Wendy and Her Journey
05:27 Wendy's Early Memories with Books
08:20 Transitioning from Reader to Bookseller
11:27 The Impact of COVID on Bookstores
14:20 Literary Culture in Nairobi vs. Lagos
17:17 The Literary Season in Nairobi
20:11 Choosing What to Read Next
23:33 The Art of Recommending Books
26:28 Exploring Memoirs and Their Appeal
37:56 The Art of Book Recommendations
40:21 Top Five Book Recommendations
58:20 Navigating Disappointments in Reading
01:06:24 Desires for the Future of Reading
01:11:52 Introduction and Engagement with Listeners
01:12:22 Encouraging Community and Sharing the Podcast
In Case You Missed It
1. BROKEN by Fatima Bala (Book Chat)
2. An Easy Guide To NetGalley
3. The 2025 Something Bookish Reading Challenge Guide
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