The warmth of a book

In The Slightly Foxed Podcast, we’re treated not only to recommendations for unusual books, but also must-visit bookstores, museums and libraries

For bibliophiles, there’s no greater joy than being in the company of people who will endlessly talk books — what was read, what was loved and hated or wondered about, why an ending didn’t work or why an author disappointed or delighted, and what to read next. Tsundoku-related angst aside, the pandemic period has given many of us the time to pick up books languishing on our shelves and catch up on literary events we would not had time for otherwise. From a season of litfests that required leave (and ability) to travel, we’ve now grown accustomed to a regular stream of online events, available to catch on YouTube at our leisure. While litfests have a certain aura, there’s nothing like long cozy conversations with bookish friends. And when said friends are not available, I turn to a small set of podcasts that have kept me company for a while now. One of these, which came highly recommended, has the flavour of English tea with scones and clotted cream, while the other is most definitely a mid-morning chai-and-samosa session (though glucose biscuits are mentioned).