Book Riot Chief Redefines 'Well-Read'
Rebecca Schinsky, Chief of Staff at Book Riot, challenged traditional definitions of being 'well-read' on the Reading Glasses podcast, advocating for a broader, more inclusive view. She argues that being well-read is about curiosity and breadth rather than ticking off canonical lists, promoting engagement with books that matter to both individuals and culture.
Book Riot, the company where Schinsky is Chief of Staff, was co-founded by Jeff O'Neal and established itself as North America's largest independent editorial book site. Its mission from the start has been to foster a diverse and inclusive discussion around books that goes beyond traditional reviews. The conversation took place on a podcast hosted by authors Brea Grant and Mallory O'Meara. Their show, "Reading Glasses," focuses on practical advice for readers, from organizing bookshelves to tackling "to-be-read" piles, making it a fitting venue for a pragmatic re-evaluation of reading habits. Historically, being "well-read" has often been tied to completing a canon of classic, frequently Western, literature and being able to discuss these specific works intelligently. This traditional view emphasizes a shared cultural knowledge base derived from a specific set of revered texts. Schinsky's perspective aligns with Book Riot's broader editorial stance, which includes amplifying marginalized voices and challenging the status quo of the publishing world. The site regularly features content on topics like book censorship and collaborates with organizations like the EveryLibrary Institute. Having worked on the literary internet since 2008, Rebecca Schinsky has spoken extensively on the evolution of book-related media and online reading communities. She co-hosts the "Book Riot Podcast," a weekly show that discusses news and trends in the world of books and publishing.
