Soraya Darabi on Social-Media Startups (Podcast)

Drown is Junot Díaz's debut collection of short stories, published in 1996. It delves into the lives of Dominican immigrants, particularly focusing on themes of identity, culture, and the struggles of adapting to a new life in the United States. The stories are set in both the Dominican Republic and New Jersey, reflecting Díaz's own experiences growing up between these two worlds.

The story follows John T. Unger, a young man from a middle-class town, who attends an exclusive preparatory school where he befriends Percy Washington. Percy invites John to spend the summer at his family's estate in Montana, where John learns about the family's extraordinary wealth and their secret: a diamond as big as the Ritz-Carlton Hotel. The Washingtons have maintained this secret through various means, including enslaving descendants of slaves who believe the Civil War never ended. However, with the advent of airplanes, their secrecy is threatened, leading to a dramatic confrontation and the eventual destruction of their estate. The story explores themes of wealth, greed, and the illusions of the wealthy elite.

In 'A Gentle Creature', Dostoevsky crafts a poignant narrative through the voice of a pawnbroker reflecting on his tumultuous marriage to a young woman. The story explores the complexities of their relationship, marked by control, silence, and ultimately, tragedy. It is a powerful character study that probes the depths of human psychology and the consequences of unchecked power.

In 'Give and Take', Adam Grant examines the surprising forces that shape success, highlighting the differences between givers, matchers, and takers. Givers contribute to others without expecting anything in return, matchers aim to trade evenly, and takers strive to get as much as possible from others. Grant uses cutting-edge evidence and captivating stories to show how these styles impact success across various industries. The book emphasizes the benefits and challenges of adopting a giver mentality and provides practical advice on how to build successful relationships and achieve extraordinary results.

Nella Larsen's "Passing" is a novel exploring the complexities of racial identity and the experience of passing as white in the early 20th century. The story follows two light-skinned Black women, Irene and Clare, who navigate the social and psychological challenges of living in a racially divided society. The novel delves into themes of self-discovery, betrayal, and the psychological toll of concealing one's true identity. Larsen's masterful prose and insightful exploration of race and identity make "Passing" a powerful and enduring work of American literature.