NPR's Book of the Day

John Kenney, author and New Yorker contributor, discusses his novel 'I See You've Called in Dead', featuring Bud Stanley, an obituary writer who mistakenly publishes his own death notice after a drunken night. The conversation explores the absurdity of facing one’s mortality, as Bud begins attending strangers' funerals, revealing the power of connection and friendship. Kenney also shares personal insights on balancing humor and grief, inspired by his late brother, and the complexities of capturing life in obituaries.

Pulitzer finalist Laila Lalami, author of The Dream Hotel, delves into a future where dreams are monitored via implants, raising questions about privacy and surveillance. She explores how technology infiltrates our subconscious, revealing ethical dilemmas. Alongside her, Audrey Lee discusses her novel The Mechanics of Memory, centered on a woman grappling with amnesia in a surreal mental health facility. Together, they challenge the very essence of identity and the fragility of our memories in an increasingly tech-dominated world.

Discover the chaotic beginnings of Lollapalooza, initially a farewell tour for Jane's Addiction, which turned into a groundbreaking festival. The authors share hilarious anecdotes from interviews with iconic bands like Nine Inch Nails and Green Day. Explore how the festival united diverse genres, blending hip hop with rock, and helped mainstream alternative music. Reflect on its nostalgic journey and how it adapts to today’s music landscape, all while capturing the vibrant spirit that defined those wild days.

Emma Pattee, author of the novel 'Tilt,' shares her gripping narrative about a pregnant woman navigating the chaos of a major earthquake in the Pacific Northwest. She reflects on the millennial experience of disappointment and the challenges of balancing personal aspirations with impending motherhood. Pattee also discusses the importance of scientific accuracy in her storytelling, drawing parallels to classic epics, and explores how natural disasters force deep self-discovery and reflection in the characters’ lives.

In this enlightening conversation, Amanda Nguyen, author of *Saving Five: A Memoir of Hope* and renowned activist for sexual assault survivors, shares her transformative journey. After her own experience with assault, she fought for federal legislation to improve how rape kits are handled. Nguyen discusses the emotional toll of trauma, navigating bureaucratic hurdles, and the crucial role of personal storytelling in her advocacy. She also touches on balancing her personal aspirations with family expectations, highlighting her remarkable resilience.

John Green, a bestselling author known for 'The Fault in Our Stars,' discusses his new book, 'Everything Is Tuberculosis,' inspired by a young boy named Henry from Sierra Leone. He delves into the alarming persistence of tuberculosis despite modern medicine, highlighting personal and historical narratives that shape our understanding of the disease. Green sheds light on the global fight against drug-resistant TB and the urgent need for affordable healthcare, emphasizing our collective responsibility in addressing this preventable illness.

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.

Scaachi Koul delves into her transformative experience post-divorce, using it as a lens to reevaluate her identity and relationships. She discusses her evolving connection with her mother and how familial ties complicate personal turmoil. Koul reflects on the journey toward self-discovery, including the liberating act of tattooing as rebellion. Engaging with themes from Hindu mythology, she intertwines love, betrayal, and personal growth, ultimately highlighting the importance of vulnerability and forgiveness in healing.

Emily Feng shares her experiences and insights on being Chinese under Xi Jinping, exploring identity in a complex landscape. She discusses the struggles of individuals like Yusuf, balancing their Han Chinese nationality with Hui Muslim identity. The podcast examines the government’s role in deepening cultural divides between different ethnic groups, particularly the Hui and Uyghurs. Feng also reflects on the challenges of being a journalist in China, navigating identity politics, and how these issues impact storytelling in the global context.

An Irish-American woman named Eilis confronts her husband's affair, propelling her on a journey back to her roots in Ireland. Author Colm Tóibín reveals the emotional depth behind Eilis's character and the nuances of her identity as she navigates life as a perceived outsider. The podcast explores themes of emotional restraint, cultural contrasts, and the complex relationships that shape Eilis's evolving self. Tóibín reflects on the significance of place and memory in storytelling, making this tale a rich tapestry of personal transformation.