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The Arts of Language Podcast · IEW (Andrew Pudewa)

Episode 506: The 1000 Good Books Project with the Winsteads

December 3, 2025
The episode begins with hosts Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker discussing the importance of reading aloud to children, referencing Andrew's talk 'Nurturing Competent Communicators'. They introduce guests Garrett and Cheryl Winstead, founders of the 1000 Good Books Project. Garrett explains the project's origin from John Senior, a professor who found students unprepared for great books without prior exposure to literature like fairy tales. The format focuses on audiobooks to make the goal feasible, integrating them into daily activities like car rides or playtime. Cheryl notes how audiobooks replace screen time for their children. The project curates high-quality recordings, some public domain and some professionally narrated, with added music to enhance imagination. Andrew shares an anecdote about a storyteller with piano accompaniment to illustrate the power of audio. Garrett lists sample titles including Winnie the Pooh, Alice in Wonderland, and upcoming Count of Monte Cristo. Julie connects these to IEW's literature recommendations. The business model is a $5 monthly or $50 yearly subscription, funding new recordings without ads or AI voices. A gift membership option is available, and a holiday promotion is teased. Garrett recommends John Senior's books, particularly 'The Restoration of Christian Culture', for its impact on valuing fiction. The episode concludes with website details and a call to action for subscriptions.

As heard by us

A clear case for family audiobooks and read-aloud listening, centered on memory, imagination, and repeated stories.

The episode builds a steady case for audiobooks as part of family reading life, grounding it in listening, repetition, and stories shared out loud.

Read the full review in PlayNext →

Why you'd press play

If you want a better case for family audiobooks, start here.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →
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