Schoolreaders and Book In Podcast

We sat down with one of the founders of Book In Podcast to talk about books, broadcasting, and why supporting reading has never mattered more. From Tudor history to Tolkien, Rupert Fordham shares his thoughts.

Tell us a bit about yourself?

I’ve run a business for most of my working life, which has been enormously rewarding. More recently, I’ve found myself with a bit more time on my hands, and that’s given me the opportunity to explore other passions, one of the most enduring being reading and talking about books.

What inspired you to create Book In Podcast?

Both Charlie and I have always loved reading books and, just as importantly, talking about them. We realised that those conversations were something we genuinely looked forward to, so we thought we’d give it a go and turn them into a podcast.

What has been your favourite episode of the podcast so far, and why?

There have been several highlights, but one that really stands out is Wolf Hall. I hadn’t read it before, and I was completely absorbed. It’s such a fascinating period of history, and Hilary Mantel is an extraordinary and original writer.

Are there any books or authors you’re particularly looking forward to covering?

Many! We have an upcoming series focused on twentieth century novelists, including Evelyn Waugh, Graham Greene, and E. M. Forster. It’s a rich period for literature, and we’re excited to dive into it.

How did you first hear about the work of Schoolreaders?

I met Schoolreaders’ Founder Jane Whitbread socially and was hugely impressed by her vision. Hearing her talk about Schoolreaders and the many ways in which literacy is vital to our society was inspiring, so we’re delighted to be supporting the charity to recruit more volunteers.

What inspired you to want to support the charity?

Reading is so important, yet it’s clearly in decline among young people. We need to do everything we can to reverse that trend. Schoolreaders is an inspirational project that tackles the problem head‑on, and it’s something I believe everyone can support, whether practically or financially.

Finally, what is your favourite book of all time?

That’s an impossible question, so I’ll give you a top five:

• Great Cricket Matches (edited by Handasyde Buchanan)

• Heaven’s Command by Jan Morris

• Middlemarch by George Eliot

• Inside Story by Martin Amis

• The Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien

Book In Podcast continues to celebrate books old and new while supporting Schoolreaders. You can check them out here or wherever you get your podcasts.