From cover to cover and coast to coast, PBS Books Readers Club is celebrating American writers and works that make up our country’s literary landscape. Join hosts Lauren Smith and Fred Nahhat for a glimpse into the bookish culture of our country through featured states and the stories that reveal their spirit, complexity and imagination. Whether you’re drawn to Western crime fiction, a heartfelt coming-of-age stories or lyrical reflections on the natural world and fresh looks at American history, this special episode is packed with books to discover and voices to celebrate.

As Sue Monk Kidd reflects, “My first novel, ‘The Secret Life of Bees,’ was heavily inspired by and drawn from my little hometown. I think it was the Greek philosopher Heraclitus who said, ‘Geography is fate,’ and that is certainly true of me and my writing.”

Kidd is one of several authors featured in this special as we celebrate America’s 250th birthday. With each state we visit, we’ll share a brief look at authors and works that have shaped the region, including the “Longmire” series, “They Can’t Kill Us Until They Kill Us,” “In Her Shoes” and more. Together, these distinct voices contribute to a vast and vibrant American canon.

Every month, the PBS Books Readers Club curates a selection of outstanding books and provides exclusive interviews with renowned authors. It’s the perfect community for book enthusiasts to connect and discover their next captivating read.

Catch new episodes on the last Wednesday of each month via the PBS Books Facebook page, the PBS Books YouTube Channel and the PBS app on your smart TV or device. Each episode pairs perfectly with your favorite PBS shows and features books that promise to be unforgettable.

Members can access extended interviews with authors with Arizona PBS Passport and enjoy an on-demand library of quality public television programming. Additionally, subscribers receive a bi-monthly e-newsletter packed with exclusive interviews, engaging book-related articles, and more book recommendations.

Tune in to our new digital video series for in-depth conversations with some of today’s most prolific and thought-provoking authors and PBS personalities.

The PBS Books Readers Club Facebook group is your go-to destination for everything literary. With a growing community of thousands, you’ll find an endless stream of discussions, recommendations, and bookish insights.

We’re excited to offer this vibrant interactive platform where book lovers can engage in reading together, discuss their favorite reads, discover new recommendations and chat with like-minded readers. Plus, you’ll have the chance to pose questions to featured authors and participate in lively book club conversations. Join us and be part of a thriving community of book enthusiasts.