Jenna Bush Hager's Book Club: A Journey Through Inspiring Reads

Ms. Jade Goyette PhD 21 Jun 2025

Jenna Bush Hager's Book Club, "Read with Jenna," has rapidly become a beloved institution for bibliophiles across the nation, transforming the way millions discover and engage with literature. Since its inception in March 2019, this vibrant community, spearheaded by the dynamic Today Show host, has consistently delivered captivating narratives that resonate deeply with readers, sparking conversations and fostering a shared love for books.

More than just a monthly recommendation, the Read with Jenna book club embodies a genuine passion for storytelling. Jenna Bush Hager, a self-proclaimed avid bookworm, pours her heart into selecting titles that not only entertain but also challenge perspectives, offering a diverse array of voices and genres. This dedication has cemented the club's status as a trusted guide in the vast world of contemporary literature, making it an indispensable resource for anyone seeking their next unforgettable read.

Who is Jenna Bush Hager?

Before delving into the intricacies of her highly influential book club, it's essential to understand the woman behind the phenomenon. Jenna Bush Hager is a multifaceted public figure, widely recognized for her warmth, authenticity, and profound love for literature. Born into a prominent American political family, she has carved out her own unique path in media, becoming a beloved presence on national television.

As the daughter of former U.S. President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush, Jenna grew up in the public eye. However, she has consistently demonstrated an independent spirit and a commitment to causes close to her heart, particularly literacy and education. Her career as an author, journalist, and television personality has allowed her to connect with a vast audience, sharing her insights and passions. Her role as a co-host on NBC's Today Show has provided the perfect platform to launch and nurture her book club, Read with Jenna, leveraging her genuine enthusiasm to inspire millions to pick up a book.

Personal Data and Biodata:

Attribute	Detail
Full Name	Jenna Welch Bush Hager
Date of Birth	November 25, 1981
Place of Birth	Dallas, Texas, U.S.
Parents	George W. Bush (Father), Laura Bush (Mother)
Spouse	Henry Chase Hager
Children	Mila, Poppy, Hal
Occupation	Author, Journalist, Television Personality (Co-host of Today with Hoda & Jenna)
Known For	Today Show co-host, founder of Read with Jenna book club

The Genesis of Read with Jenna: A Vision for Connection

The journey of the Read with Jenna book club began in March 2019, when Today host Jenna Bush Hager officially launched the initiative. Her vision was clear and heartfelt: to strengthen communities and ignite conversations over novels that would entertain or challenge readers' perspectives. In a world increasingly fragmented by digital distractions, Jenna saw the profound power of shared stories to bring people together, fostering empathy and understanding.

The announcement on the Today Show marked the beginning of a new chapter for book lovers. Since March 2019, Jenna has diligently chosen a new book every month, transforming the simple act of reading into a collective experience. Her genuine enthusiasm and approachable demeanor quickly resonated with viewers, turning "Read with Jenna" into a household name. This wasn't just another celebrity endorsement; it was a personal invitation from a passionate bookworm to join her on a literary adventure, making the Jenna Bush Hager book club a truly unique and impactful endeavor.

How Jenna Bush Hager Selects Her Picks

The success and credibility of the Read with Jenna book club lie in the meticulous and personal selection process undertaken by Jenna herself. As a passionate bookworm, Bush Hager works hard to choose stories that will delight, entertain, and provoke thought. Her selections are not random; they reflect a deep understanding of literary merit and a keen sense of what will resonate with a broad audience.

A Focus on Modern Literary Fiction and Debut Authors

One of the defining characteristics of Jenna's choices is her consistent inclination towards modern literary fiction, often by debut authors. This focus allows the Jenna Bush Hager book club to introduce fresh voices and compelling narratives that might otherwise go unnoticed by mainstream readers. She highlights stories that are not only beautifully written but also offer unique insights into the human condition, making her picks both timely and timeless. For instance, her April 2025 pick, 'Heartwood' by Amity Gaige, was described as 'propulsive' and had her 'hooked from the first page,' a testament to her keen eye for engaging storytelling. Similarly, 'A Family Matter,' Claire Lynch's debut novel, was chosen for June, described as a "portrait of a family," alternating between two timelines, the 1980s and the early aughts.

The Partnership with Book of the Month Club

To make her selections even more accessible, Jenna Bush Hager partnered with Book of the Month Club in 2020. This collaboration ensures that all of Jenna’s new book selections are readily available through the subscription book box, making it convenient for members to acquire and read the chosen title each month. Her picks are announced once a month, usually on the first Tuesday of the month on the Today Show with Hoda Kotb, building anticipation and excitement among her dedicated followers. This strategic partnership has significantly expanded the reach of the Jenna Bush Hager book club, making it easier for readers nationwide to participate.

A Look at Recent and Upcoming Jenna Bush Hager Book Club Picks

The heart of any book club lies in its selections, and the Read with Jenna book club has an impressive track record of diverse and impactful choices. From contemporary classics to highly anticipated new releases, Jenna's list offers something for every literary palate.

Noteworthy Past Selections

Since its launch, the Jenna Bush Hager book club has featured a wide array of books that have captivated readers and critics alike. To round out 2022, for instance, the club went with a contemporary classic: Donna Tartt’s 1992 novel, 'The Secret History.' Jenna described the book, which follows a group of classics students, highlighting its enduring appeal and complex characters. Her August 2023 pick was also a timeless classic, demonstrating her appreciation for enduring literature.

Other notable selections that have garnered significant attention include:

'The life cycle of the common octopus' by Emma Knight
'This is a love story' by Jessica Soffer
'The dream hotel' by Laila Lalami
'Banyan Moon' (Jenna also recommended 5 things to buy while reading this book, showing her immersive approach)

In honor of Read with Jenna’s book club’s fifth anniversary, Bush Hager even chose two books, further illustrating her commitment to providing rich reading experiences. Her ability to spot a bestseller from miles away and select books that become fan favorites is a testament to her literary acumen.

Anticipating Jenna Bush Hager's 2025 Book Club Picks

The excitement for future selections is always palpable among members of the Jenna Bush Hager book club. Jenna Bush Hager has some great book recommendations for 2025, and she's already shared glimpses of her reading plans. For instance, Today’s Jenna Bush Hager announced her Read with Jenna book club pick for May 2025: “The Names” by Florence Knapp. This book, out on May 6, is already being called a modern classic, indicating Jenna's continued knack for identifying significant new works. Jenna Bush Hager also has some big reading plans for the summer of 2025, and she is sharing her list with fellow bibliophiles, building anticipation for what promises to be another year of compelling reads.

The Impact and Community of Read with Jenna

The Read with Jenna book club, featured prominently on the Today Show, has been inspiring readers since its launch in 2019. Its impact extends far beyond mere book sales; it has fostered a vibrant, engaged community of readers who connect over shared literary experiences. Jenna's personal selections and her enthusiastic discussions on air create a sense of intimacy and shared discovery that is rare in the media landscape.

The club has successfully strengthened communities and ignited conversations over novels, fulfilling Jenna's initial vision. Readers eagerly await the monthly announcements, participate in online discussions, and often share their own insights and interpretations. This collective engagement transforms reading from a solitary activity into a communal celebration of stories, demonstrating the profound cultural influence of the Jenna Bush Hager book club.

Navigating the Complete Read with Jenna Book Club List

For avid readers or simply those curious about Jenna Bush Hager’s book club, having access to the complete list of past selections is invaluable. The list, updated monthly, serves as a comprehensive guide to all the literary journeys Jenna has invited her audience to embark upon. Whether you're looking to catch up on missed picks or revisit old favorites, the complete Read with Jenna book club list is a treasure trove of recommended reads.

Since Jenna Bush Hager started the Read with Jenna book club list in March of 2019, many fans have made it a point to keep track of every selection. There have even been a few months where she chose two monthly book picks in the same month, adding to the richness and variety of the list. This extensive catalog offers a unique opportunity to explore a curated collection of contemporary fiction and classics, all personally vetted by Jenna.

Top-Rated Books from Jenna's List

Among the many excellent choices, some books on the Jenna Bush Hager book club list have particularly resonated with readers, earning high praise and impressive Goodreads ratings. While specific ratings fluctuate, popular picks often include those that spark widespread discussion and emotional connection. For instance, books like 'The House on Mango Street' and 'The Great Divide' have received strong Goodreads ratings, reflecting their appeal to the club's audience. These top 10 rated books on Jenna’s book club list serve as excellent starting points for new members or those looking for proven favorites.

Why Join the Jenna Bush Hager Book Club?

Joining the Jenna Bush Hager book club offers a multitude of benefits for anyone who loves to read or wishes to cultivate a reading habit. Firstly, it provides a curated selection of high-quality books, saving readers the time and effort of sifting through countless titles. Jenna personally selects each book, highlighting stories that she genuinely believes will resonate.

Secondly, the club fosters a sense of community. Through the Today Show segments and online discussions, readers can connect with fellow book lovers, share their thoughts, and deepen their understanding of each book. This communal aspect transforms reading into a more interactive and enriching experience.

Finally, Jenna's picks often introduce readers to new authors and genres they might not have discovered on their own. Her focus on modern literary fiction and debut authors ensures a fresh and exciting reading journey every month. The accessibility through Book of the Month Club further streamlines the process, making it incredibly easy to participate. In essence, the Jenna Bush Hager book club is an invitation to explore new worlds, engage in meaningful conversations, and reignite a passion for reading.

Beyond the Pages: The Enduring Legacy of Read with Jenna

The Read with Jenna book club has firmly established itself as a significant force in the literary world. What started in March 2019 as a simple idea has blossomed into a powerful platform that champions authors, promotes literacy, and builds bridges between readers. Jenna Bush Hager's authentic passion and discerning taste have made her book club a trusted source for compelling reads, distinguishing it from other celebrity-led initiatives.

Unlike some other book clubs, the Jenna Bush Hager book club, launched in early 2019, has quickly built a substantial and impactful list of recommendations. Its enduring legacy will undoubtedly be its role in making literature more accessible and engaging for a broad audience, proving that the power of a good story, shared with genuine enthusiasm, can indeed strengthen communities and ignite conversations. As Jenna continues to delight Today Show viewers with her monthly selections, the Read with Jenna book club remains a beacon for anyone seeking their next great adventure between the pages.

We invite you to explore the complete list of Read with Jenna picks and discover your next favorite book. Have you read any of Jenna's selections? Share your thoughts and favorite picks in the comments below, and let's keep the conversation going!

Jenna Ortega Latest Photos - CelebMafia

JENNA ORTEGA at Miss Bala Premiere in Los Angeles 01/30/2019 – HawtCelebs

Jenna Ortega & Her Addams Family Reunite at 'Wednesday' Premiere

Digital Solargraphy