The Toronto Tempo recently became Canada's first WNBA team. If you, like many others, are considering checking out the action, our in-house women's basketball expert Talia Kliot recommends the one book everyone should read to learn more about the rich history of women's basketball. Plus, author Kerry Clare talks about her most recent novel Definitely Thriving, and explains the book's deep connection to Bridget Jones Diary.

Books discussed on this week's show include:

Excellent Women by Barbara Pym

Early Morning Riser by Katherine Heiny

Definitely Thriving by Kerry Clare

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Ann Patchett has written many celebrated books: Bel Canto, The Dutch House, State of Wonder. Her new book, Whistler, is another in her line-up of lovely stories that honour memory and the moments that make a life. Besides her work as a writer, Ann owns a bookstore called Parnassus in Nashville, and she’s a tireless advocate for independent booksellers. In the midst of a busy book tour for Whistler, she stops by to chat and recommend some titles from the Parnassus shelves. Plus, author Monique Gray Smith talks about true happiness while answering The Next Chapter’s version of the Proust Questionnaire.

Books discussed on this week's show include:

Whistler by Ann Patchett

Kin by Tayari Jones

John of John by Douglas Stuart

The Left and the Lucky by Willy Vlautin

Music Against the Night by Yiyun Lee

Sharing the Light: Stories and Reflections by Monique Gray Smith

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As Canada prepares for its upcoming World Cup games, writer, musician and sports enthusiast Dave Bidini joins the show to help get you in the soccer spirit. He’ll recommend two classic football books that capture why we call it the beautiful game. Plus, author Genevieve Graham talks about getting lost in the work while answering The Next Chapter’s version of the Proust Questionnaire.

Books discussed on this week's show include:

Soccer in Sun and Shadow by Eduardo Galeano

Dynamo: Triumph and Tragedy in Nazi-Occupied Kiev by Andy Dougan

The Chambermaid's Key by Genevieve Graham

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