Barack Obama reveals six life-shaping books in new podcast series

Barack Obama is embarking on a new literary venture with his podcast, “A Great Book with Barack Obama,” set to debut on Audible on September 24. The series will consist of six episodes, each dedicated to a single book that the former U.S. president identifies as having profoundly shaped his worldview and his understanding of humanity.

Obama has selected a diverse range of titles, including Toni Morrison's "Song of Solomon," James Baldwin's "The Fire Next Time," and John le Carré's spy classic "Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy." The list also features Cormac McCarthy's "All the Pretty Horses," Marilynne Robinson's "Gilead," and Robert Penn Warren's "All the King's Men."

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Great books have always helped me understand who I am and what I believe in.

"Great books have always helped me understand who I am and what I believe in," Obama stated, emphasizing that these six books have been lifelong companions. He believes each offers valuable lessons about the human experience. For the podcast, he has invited friends to join him in exploring the enduring relevance of these works and their capacity to foster self-awareness and empathy.

"I hope listeners will be inspired to discover or revisit books that change the way they see themselves and the world," Obama added. This project aligns with Obama's long-standing practice of sharing his reading recommendations, which he regularly does through summer and year-end book lists. The podcast, a collaboration between Audible and the Obamas' production company, Higher Ground, signifies a continued engagement with literature as a means of understanding and connection.

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I hope listeners will be inspired to discover or revisit books that change the way they see themselves and the world.