

#4975
Mentioned in 6 episodes
Giovanni's Room
Book • 1956
Published in 1956, 'Giovanni's Room' is a groundbreaking novel by James Baldwin that delves into the life of David, a young American expatriate in Paris.
David is caught between his desire for Giovanni, an Italian bartender, and his engagement to Hella, an American woman.
The novel explores themes of love, shame, guilt, and the internal conflicts that arise from societal expectations and personal identity.
As David navigates his relationships and grapples with his sexuality, the story unfolds into a tragic confrontation with the consequences of his choices and the unspoken complexities of the human heart.
David is caught between his desire for Giovanni, an Italian bartender, and his engagement to Hella, an American woman.
The novel explores themes of love, shame, guilt, and the internal conflicts that arise from societal expectations and personal identity.
As David navigates his relationships and grapples with his sexuality, the story unfolds into a tragic confrontation with the consequences of his choices and the unspoken complexities of the human heart.
Mentioned by















Mentioned in 6 episodes
Recommended by ![undefined]()

for its lyrical beauty and exploration of the human soul.

Alex Hardiman

41 snips
An inside look at how the New York Times builds product | Alex Hardiman (CPO at The New York Times)
Mentioned by 

as an example of a brave book that took risks against the grain of the political moment.


Zadie Smith

18 snips
Zadie Smith–How to Be Free
Mentioned by ![undefined]()

as a beautiful piece of art.

Kelsey McKinney

15 snips
Holiday Bonus: Caked Up Spirit of Christmas
Mentioned by ![undefined]()

as one of Baldwin's works

Holly Fry

SYMHC Classics: James Baldwin
Mentioned by ![undefined]()

as a novel exploring themes of failure to love.

Colm Tóibín

661 James Baldwin (with Colm Tóibín)
Mentioned by ![undefined]()

as a short book he read for his friend's book club, which he found to be really special.

Jason Blitman

What Are You Reading? with Brad Summerville (@bradboughtabook)
Mentioned by 

as a heartbreaking novel exploring themes of identity and self-discovery.


Eddie Hood

11 Books for a Year of Deep Reading | EP100
Genoemd door ![undefined]()

als een van zijn favoriete boeken, gelezen tijdens een reis naar Milaan en als bevestiging van zijn toenmalige levensstijl.

Raoul de Jong

1e uur: rare wezens in Middeleeuwen-game; wapenstilstand Israël; James Baldwin in Parijs 19-01-2025
Mentioned by ![undefined]()

as a novel considered revolutionary for its portrayal of gay love.

Sienna Greaves

The Cultural Frontline: James Baldwin centenary
Mentioned as one of the books that broke out in the 40's and 50's.

Brian Lehrer Weekend: Zohran Mamdani; The Fight for Gay Rights; The NYC Democratic Party Machine


Brian Lehrer

100 Years of 100 Things: The Fight for Gay Rights
Mentioned by 

as one of the most influential writers to emerge during the civil rights era.


David Bianculli

Remembering Freedom Singer Bernice Johnson Reagon