October 8, 2025 – PBS News Hour full episode

The Children is a detailed narrative by David Halberstam that chronicles the 1959–1962 Nashville Student Movement. The book meticulously recreates the lives of eight young men and women who formed the core committee of the movement, including figures like James Lawson, James Bevel, Diane Nash, John Lewis, and others. It covers key events such as the Nashville sit-ins, the Freedom Riders, and the formation of SNCC, highlighting the courage and resilience of these young activists in the face of violent opposition and societal segregation. The book also explores how these individuals, despite coming from underprivileged backgrounds, went on to achieve significant careers and contribute to the broader civil rights movement.

Ian McEwan's 'On Chesil Beach' tells the story of Florence and Edward, a young couple on their honeymoon in 1962 England. Set against the backdrop of their wedding night on Chesil Beach, the novella explores their anxieties and miscommunications about intimacy. The story delves into their backgrounds and expectations, revealing the societal pressures and personal insecurities that contribute to their marital struggles. As they confront their fears, a pivotal moment leads to a tragic separation that shapes the rest of their lives. 'On Chesil Beach' is a poignant exploration of love, misunderstanding, and the lasting impact of unspoken desires.

In 'Amsterdam: A History of the World's Most Liberal City', Russell Shorto explores the city's unique history, from its origins as a small fishing village to its rise as a major trading port and center of cultural and economic liberalism. The book delves into Amsterdam's role in fostering political and economic freedom, its Golden Age, and its enduring legacy as a beacon of tolerance and innovation.

The novel centers around Briony Tallis, a thirteen-year-old girl who, in 1935, witnesses a flirtation between her older sister Cecilia and Robbie Turner, the son of a servant. Briony's incomplete grasp of adult motives and her precocious imagination lead her to make a false accusation that changes all their lives. The story follows the repercussions of this event through World War II and into the late 20th century, as Briony spends her life trying to make amends for her mistake. The novel is a complex exploration of guilt, atonement, and the nature of writing and memory.