Books and Authors
A Good Read: Anjana Vasan and Anne-Marie Imafidon
Feb 20, 2024
Actor and singer Anjana Vasan and computer scientist Anne-Marie Imafidon discuss their favorite books, including the biography of Bessie Smith by Jackie Kay, exploring themes of queerness, working-class roots, and blackness. They also dive into a unique book touching on spirituality, technology, fate vs. free will, and the need for human connection. In addition, they analyze character dynamics, pacing, power dynamics, and intrigue in science fiction and psychological thriller genres.
27:53
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Quick takeaways
- The biography of Bessie Smith intertwines the author's life with the legendary singer's, highlighting queerness and working-class roots.
- The sci-fi stories in 'Edge of Hare' explore societal impact of technology, challenging conventional narratives and emphasizing human connection.
Deep dives
Anjana Vassen's Choice: Bessie Smith by Jackie Kay
Anjana Vassen recommends the book 'Bessie Smith' by Jackie Kay, a biography of the legendary singer known as The Empress of the Blues. Vassen is drawn to the unusual approach of the biography, as Jackie Kay weaves her own life experiences with those of Bessie Smith, emphasizing queerness, working-class roots, and blackness. Vassen praises the poetic and lyrical style of the book, which portrays the brutal and messy aspects of Bessie Smith's life with empathy and love.
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