For book lovers, the pairing of Oprah Winfrey and Wally Lamb is one of the most enduring relationships in the history of celebrity book clubs. Winfrey has chosen three of Lamb's novels for Oprah's Book Club, leading to skyrocketing sales, bestseller status, and increased recognition for the acclaimed author. Lamb's most recent novel, The River Is Waiting, was selected as Oprah's 115th Book Club pick. Thanks in part to Winfrey's endorsement, the book has now reached another major publishing milestone.
Published on May 19, 2026, The River Is Waiting became an instant New York Times bestseller and a USA Today bestseller. It also marked the third Wally Lamb novel selected for Oprah's Book Club. Now, following a successful hardcover release, The River Is Waiting is officially available in paperback.
Readers Celebrate the Paperback Release
View this post on InstagramReaders celebrated the news in the comments of Oprah's social media post, sharing how much the novel has stayed with them.
"It's been an entire year, and I still think about this book. The audiobook was amazing!!" gushed one reader.
Another added, "OMG this book is so damn good! I might need to reread it!!"
"This is one of the best books I've ever read!" shared another, echoing the sentiments of many fans.
Why a Paperback Release Is a Major Milestone
View this post on InstagramFor many books, publication day is just the beginning of a long journey. Many publishers release high-profile books in hardcover first. Hardcover editions generate excitement around a new release and are typically purchased by devoted readers, collectors, and libraries willing to pay a premium for the newest titles.
After a successful hardcover launch, many books receive a second life through a paperback edition. Thanks to its lower price, a paperback often introduces a book to a much wider audience while offering greater affordability and portability. For readers, it provides the opportunity to discover a bestselling novel at a lower cost. For authors and publishers, a paperback release can significantly extend a book's lifespan and introduce it to an entirely new wave of readers.
Related: 'Felt This Book in My Bones': Oprah Winfrey Reveals Her 123rd Book Club Pick
Why Readers Love Paperback Editions
View this post on InstagramA paperback release can also reconnect readers with a book they've already enjoyed. As Oprah's followers were quick to note, the paperback release of The River Is Waiting gives readers an opportunity to revisit a favorite novel or share it with a fellow book lover.
Book clubs also tend to favor paperback editions, not only because of their lower price but also because they're lighter, easier to carry, and more convenient for members to bring to discussions.
If your book club is looking for a compelling fall pick, Oprah has a recommendation ready.
Related: Goodreads Readers Rank This The Best Reese’s Book Club Pick Of All Time
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