Bethanne Patrick

Book critic Bethanne Patrick discusses six speculative novels that imagine a world saturated by AI. Topics include the AI threat and regulation, AI's impact on the writing industry, and the role of AI in creating a murder mystery. They also explore the concept of AI as a partnership, the power of sci-fi writing, and the theme of a smart home in the novel 'Rose House'. Additionally, they discuss the recreation of humans in literature using AI and its impact on the publishing industry.

Bethanne Patrick, a prominent book critic for the Los Angeles Times and The Washington Post, shares her insights on the best non-fiction reads of 2024. She delves into Emily Nussbaum's examination of reality TV's cultural impact and its intersection with American politics. The discussion also highlights memoirs addressing mental health and identity, as well as Fanny Stevenson's pivotal role in Robert Louis Stevenson's success. Finally, Bethanne explores the historical context of Handel's Messiah, tying these themes to the evolution of cultural values.

Bethanne Patrick, a prominent literary critic for the Los Angeles Times and a vocal presence on Twitter, shares her insights into the world of fiction as it gears up for 2024. She passionately discusses five standout novels, including Dan Z. Senna's 'Colored Television,' which tackles race and identity in the arts. Patrick also delves into Percival Everett's 'James,' highlighting its exploration of double consciousness. The conversation further touches on bestselling novels, personal narratives, and the fine line between fact and fiction in contemporary literature.

Bethanne Patrick and Aislyn Greene discuss the new seasons of Missing Pages and Travel Tales by AFAR respectively. Topics include book bands, publishing controversies, censorship, ghostwriting, and the joys of second-hand bookstores and travel.

Andrew talks to Bethanne Patrick, the LA Times book critic, about new non-fiction books including Valiant Women by Lena Andrews, which explores the contributions of women in WWII. They also discuss The Salivaneans, a book about an American commune and its downfall, and a book about Dr. John Akable Miesa's swindle in Ghana. The conversation also delves into books on geography and ocean exploration, highlighting investigations of the ocean's depths and the lack of exploration funding.