Koval to host online book show ‘Monthly Book’

Former ABC Radio National presenter Ramona Koval will host the Monthly Book, an online book show on the Monthly website, from early 2013. 

‘Since I left the ABC just a year ago to write some new books, I’ve been overwhelmed by the many requests for news of my return to talking about books and writing,’ said Koval in a blog post on the Monthly website. ‘Many of you are missing The Book Show and, it turns out, so am I.’

The Monthly Book will feature video interviews and podcasts with Australian and international authors. The Monthly currently features video interviews in its SlowTV section.

The Monthly Book will be streamed live and will allow readers to comment on the website. ‘You can join the conversations each month, live as they happen, while you sit at home or in your office or wander the world with your mobile devices,’ said Koval.

Koval will curate a list of book recommendations, including introductory notes. The Monthly website will provide links to purchase the books. 

Koval left her position at Radio National as presenter of the Book Show last year when ABC management replaced the show with a general arts and books program. Koval has since written By the Book: A Reader’s Guide to Life (Text).

‘I’m pleased that I’ve found a place to continue doing the other things I love—talking to writers and talking about books, writing and ideas,’ said Koval.

‘It is a great thrill to have Ramona Koval at the Monthly,’ said publisher Morry Schwartz. ‘There is no journalist in the country with a stronger connection to books and to her listeners. Nor is there a journalist who has a greater affinity with writers.’

Category: Local news