NPR's Book of the Day
Authors of two new novels draw inspiration from history in wildly different ways
Apr 4, 2025
Two authors dive into history, unraveling stories in unique ways. Emma Donoghue explores a harrowing 1895 train disaster in her novel, The Paris Express, intertwining meticulous research with creativity. Bob the Drag Queen reimagines Harriet Tubman as a modern superhero, blending hip-hop with historical themes of freedom in his debut novel. The podcast discusses the interplay between real events and artistic expression, highlighting the resilience inspired by these formidable figures. It's a vibrant conversation about storytelling that transcends time.
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Quick takeaways
- Emma Donoghue emphasizes the significance of thorough historical research in crafting narratives that reveal societal complexities, as illustrated in her novel The Paris Express.
- Bob the Drag Queen creatively reimagines Harriet Tubman in a contemporary context, using hip-hop to engage readers and challenge perceptions of freedom and legacy.
Deep dives
Emma Donoghue's Research-Driven Narrative
Emma Donoghue's novel, The Paris Express, is inspired by a historical accident involving a steam locomotive that crashed through a railroad terminal in 1895. The author emphasizes the importance of meticulous research in her writing, stating that historical facts often yield more extraordinary stories than fiction. By investigating the lives of passengers from various backgrounds, including diverse social classes and professions, Donoghue illustrates how the train journey reflects the complexities of society at the time. The narrative not only portrays a thrilling event but also explores the broader impact of trains on communication, commerce, and societal structures in 19th-century Europe.
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