NPR's Book of the Day

Join R. Eric Thomas, a dynamic writer and Chicago Tribune columnist, as he explores Zora Neale Hurston’s pivotal work, *Their Eyes Were Watching God*. Discover how Janie Crawford's three marriages become a powerful lens for self-discovery, challenging the notion of coming-of-age at any age. Thomas shares his own connection to Janie's journey, while the discussion delves into Hurston’s folk dialogue, her anthropological roots, and modern relevance. Special guest Tayari Jones adds insights into Hurston's folklore influence, making this conversation a treasure trove for literature lovers.

Discover the highlights from NPR’s yearly picks of beloved books, featuring a biography of fashion pioneer Claire McCardell that uncovers her innovative designs. Dive into fiction with Nnedi Okorafor's compelling sci-fi narrative, which explores themes of fame within a dual storyline. Explore poignant titles like Mary Annette Pember's Medicine River, reflecting on the dark legacy of Indian boarding schools, and unravel family dynamics in Among Friends just in time for the holidays.

Nite Yun, a Cambodian-American chef and author, shares her journey of blending food with heritage in her debut cookbook, My Cambodia: A Khmer Cookbook. She reflects on how cooking helped her connect with her parents' past and the rich stories behind their family recipes. Nite discusses the comforting aromas of traditional dishes and the significance of kreung in Cambodian cuisine. She also explores her family's resilience during their escape from Cambodia, emphasizing the importance of preserving these culinary traditions for future generations.

E. Lockhart, renowned young adult novelist and author of 'We Were Liars,' dives into her latest book, 'We Fell Apart.' Discussing the emotional legacy of her past work, she shares insights on crafting stories that resonate with teenagers. Lockhart reveals how a visit to a dilapidated property in Martha's Vineyard inspired her new novel. She also explores themes of morality, danger, and the powerful voices of adolescent characters, highlighting the significance of their experiences and journeys in fiction.

Comic journalist Joe Sacco shares insights on his new book, The Once And Future Riot, which explores the violent aftermath of a 2013 killing in Uttar Pradesh, India. He discusses how narratives around violence shape actions and political movements. Sacco investigates the challenge of verifying conflicting eyewitness accounts. He reflects on the personal toll of the project and highlights the dangers of communal violence as a warning for democracy. His unique approach in comics journalism emphasizes subjectivity and the importance of connection.

Justinian Huang, the author of Lucky Seed, dives into the pressure faced by a single, gay son within a Taiwanese-American family. He shares how his own family's demands for a male heir influenced the novel's creation. Huang explores the intriguing concept of 'hungry ghosts' and highlights the family dynamics that led relatives to consider a gay son as a more controllable option for lineage plans. Additionally, he reflects on how writing the book strengthened his bond with his mother and allowed him to embrace his identity while becoming a father on his own terms.

Greta Johnsen, a media podcaster and co-host of HBO's Game of Thrones podcast, joins the discussion about Gillian Flynn's 'Gone Girl.' They explore its cultural impact, including the so-called 'Gone Girl Effect' on female-led thrillers. The conversation dives into the complexity of media personas and marriage dynamics, highlighting Amy's motivations and the critique of performative femininity. Greta also emphasizes how Flynn's Midwestern roots shape the narrative, suggesting that this setting adds unique tension to the story.

In this engaging discussion, Erin Somers, author of The Ten Year Affair, shares her insights on marriage, desire, and her innovative multiverse approach to storytelling. She explores suburban dissatisfaction and contemporary infidelity, comparing it to earlier depictions of marriage. Meanwhile, Robin Ryle, a sociology expert and author of Sex of the Midwest, reveals how a provocative sex survey stirs up revelations in a small town, breaking stereotypes about small-town life and showcasing diverse sexual experiences. Together, they delve into the complexity of intimate lives in different settings.

Tareq Baconi, a Palestinian scholar and author, delves into his personal journey in his memoir, exploring three generations of displacement. He discusses the impact of silence around queerness and politics in his family. Baconi shares poignant stories of his first love, Ramsey, and the guilt that shame—embodied in the Arabic concept of aib—brought to his life. He reflects on the complexities of coming out to his parents, the initial rejection from his father, and ultimately, the search for a sense of home beyond physical borders.

Kathy Iandoli, a journalist and acclaimed co-writer for hip-hop artists, dives deep into Gucci Mane's memoir, *Episodes*. She shares insights on Gucci's emotional struggles contrasting his upbeat persona, exploring themes of depression and drug abuse. Kathy discusses the creative decision to blackout pages, reflecting Gucci's memory gaps. She also reveals the motivation behind musicians choosing to write memoirs, highlighting their journey toward authenticity and the complex balance of sharing personal stories with public personas.