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Paperback Friends

Sam Ögren

Welcome to Paperback Friends!

This is my weekly book podcast where I do book reviews, interviews and touch on a myriad of book-related topics from – Why Mind Control Sucks to How to Get Your Book Published.

I think reading should be fun, but I never settle with "good" or "bad." My reviews dig deeper, and the question I usually start with: "How can I contribute to the conversations about this book?"

Trust me, you've never heard book reviews quite like these.

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  • 25 episodes
  • weekly
  • Avg 27 min
  • English

Episodes 25

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Counted on this page — what you have heard stays on this device, so it is not something the list can be paged by.
  • June 19 · 19 min

    Episode: 94 – [Review] Aurora Rising

    In this episode of Paperback Friends, I review Aurora Rising by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff. A squad of academy rejects, an ancient galactic threat, a girl lost in time, and enough banter to power a small moon. Aurora Rising is one of those books that constantly reminded me that I am probably not the target audience for this book. It full of overwritten banter, and enough dollar store humor to feel three episodes of Saved by the Bell. It isn't until the third act the novel get's its act together. It tones down the humor, and delivers by far the best act. We talk about the writing, the characters, why the middle of the novel nearly lost me entirely, and why some books can be perfectly fine while still not being for me. Type: Review | Book: Aurora Rising | Writers: Amie Kaufman & Jay Kristoff

  • June 12 · 25 min

    Episode: 93 – [Review] The Alchemist

    Finally! We are reviewing The Alchemist. This one has been a long time coming, and considering how famous this book is, and what it did to new age; I felt it was only a matter of time before we got here. In this episode I break down why The Alchemist has connected with so many readers, why the writing is surprisingly competent; even if its philosophies leaves me largely unconvinced. I love when a book challenges my perspectives, and as much as this book is not for me; I walk away from this review not hating this book anymore. Type: Review | Book: The Alchemist | Writer: Paulo Coelho

  • June 5 · 27 min

    Episode: 92 – [Review] Parable of the Sower

    This week I finally tackle Octavia E. Butler's Parable of the Sower—one of the most recommended books I've ever received, and one that completely challenged me. We talk about why Butler's writing feels so relentlessly human, why Lauren Olamina stands among the strongest protagonists I've read, and whether the novel's extreme violence serves a greater purpose or goes too far. More importantly, we explore why this story is far more than another dystopian novel. It's a meditation on survival, change, hope, and what remains of our humanity when everything else is stripped away. One of the hardest books I've reviewed. One of the most rewarding conversations I've had. Type: Review | Book: Parable of the Sower | Writer: Octavia E. Butler's

  • May 29 · 20 min

    Episode: 91 – [General] Are Book Sequels Going too Far?

    Book sequels are everywhere. Fantasy becomes trilogies. Trilogies become sprawling series. Successful books grow into franchises that can last for decades. But is that actually good for storytelling? In this episode I explore why writers keep returning to the same worlds, why readers keep asking for more, and why I sometimes think the most powerful thing a story can do... is end. From worldbuilding and publishing realities to The Wheel of Time, Blood Song, Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings, this is a conversation about ambition, restraint, and whether "more" really means "better." Type: General | Book: N/A | Writer: N/A

  • May 22 · 56 min

    Episode: 90 – [Interview] Oskar Eklind - How to Build a Reading Habit

    Personal efficiency expert Oskar Eklind once again honors us with his presence! This time he talks about something that I hear people mention quite often; not reading as much anymore. Why do we stop reading, when does it happen, and how can we pick it back up again? These and more questions we cover in this great interview episode. Thanks for taking the time Oskar; it feels so nice to get an expert's perspective. If you are curious about Oskar and his personal efficiency coaching, his podcast or his news letter you can find more information on his webpage. Type: Interview | Book: N/A | Writer: N/A

Showing 21–25 of 25 episodes