Chanel Miller's "Magnolia Wu, Unfolds It All" is a captivating young adult novel that seamlessly blends narrative and illustration. The story follows Magnolia Wu as she navigates the complexities of adolescence, self-discovery, and family relationships. Miller's unique artistic style enhances the storytelling, creating a visually rich and engaging experience for readers. The novel explores themes of identity, belonging, and the power of art as a means of expression and healing. It's a poignant and heartwarming story that resonates with young readers and adults alike. The book's blend of text and illustration makes it a unique and memorable read.
Know My Name is a novel that delves into the themes of human connection, isolation, and the randomness of life. The story revolves around Andrew Grey, a young accountant who becomes confined to his apartment after a freak accident. As Andrew spirals inward, compromising his physical and mental health, the novel explores how his presence and absence affect his distant family, coworkers, and even strangers. It is ultimately about the ripple effects of each person's life and our attempts to make meaning out of life's unpredictability.
Alongside life's darkest moments there often are moments of absurdity that make us laugh.
In this episode, from a live San Francisco comedy festival in January, Anna and guests talk about the special kind of comedy born of something sad. Comedians Guy Branum and Carl Tart share stories of writing a sitcom about Zoom-era social relationships. Chanel Miller, author of Know My Name, talks about coping with the trauma of being a victim of a high profile sexual assault case… by doing standup. And Faith Albright, a veterinarian specializing in at-home euthanasia, explores the delicate art of finding humor while supporting grieving families through difficult goodbyes. Plus an AI chatbot and musician Matt Nathanson duke it out over who can more creatively sum up each segment.
Chanel Miller’s books are the memoir Know My Name and Magnolia Wu Unfolds It All, which was recognized by the Newbury Awards this year.
Faith Albright’s work at onelivingsanctuary.org.
Matt Nathanson’s new album is called King of Unsimple and he’s on tour…find dates at mattnathanson.com
Guy Branum has upcoming standup shows in LA, Chicago, Seattle and more…find those dates at guybranum.com
Watch Carl Tart’s writing work on SNL… keep track of all his podcasts and improv shows on his instagram.
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Death, Sex & Money 
