NPR's Book of the Day

In this discussion, author Banu Mushtaq shares insights about her award-winning collection, 'Heart Lamp,' the first short story collection to win the International Booker Prize. Mushtaq highlights the resilience of Muslim women in India, delving into themes of freedom, sisterhood, and empowerment amid oppressive societal norms. She and translator Deepa Bhasthi explore the significance of translating Kannada literature and the emotional depth of the stories, celebrating their cultural impact and the necessity for broader representation in literature.

Sophie Elmhirst, a journalist and author, dives into the gripping tale of Maurice and Maralyn Bailey, who set sail in 1972 for an adventure that turns perilous when a whale sinks their boat. She shares how their struggle to survive for months at sea tested their relationship. Listeners hear about imaginative escapes and the deepening complexities of their bond amid desperation. Elmhirst emphasizes the unexpected joy in simple nourishment and the resilience that crises can unveil in personal connections.

Stacey Abrams dives into the world of her latest thriller, featuring Avery Keene and the dark side of artificial intelligence in healthcare. She discusses how fiction can inspire political action and the vital link between storytelling and social justice. Abrams also reflects on her experiences in voter registration and the challenges faced in political advocacy. Get ready for a compelling blend of suspense and a call to action that highlights the importance of civic engagement!

Lawrence Burney, a Baltimore writer and culture critic, dives into his essay collection, *No Sense in Wishing*, exploring how the arts, particularly figures like Gil Scott Heron, shaped his identity. He shares personal stories from Baltimore's vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Nora Princiotti, author of *Hit Girls*, reflects on the influence of 2000s female pop stars and their role in shaping cultural narratives. Together, they discuss how pop culture both defines and complicates personal identity, particularly for women in the music industry.

Mary Jo Bang, a poet celebrated for her innovative approach to translation, discusses her 20-year journey translating Dante's 'Divine Comedy.' She shares the challenges of making the ancient text relatable, emphasizing the complexities of English as a 'rhyme-poor' language. Bang reflects on the transformative experience of engaging with Dante's themes, particularly during the pandemic. She also highlights how the translation resonates with contemporary issues, bridging the past and present in a remarkable literary endeavor.

In Mark Kurlansky's novel Cheesecake, a Greek family living on Manhattan's Upper West Side sets out to follow a recipe dating back to ancient Rome. What results is a block-wide battle to make the best cheesecake, set against the backdrop of a quickly-changing neighborhood. In today's episode, Kurlansky talks with NPR's Scott Simon about coming across the oldest written recipe, the food writer's relationship to fiction, and Kurlansky's own favorite cheesecake.To listen to Book of the Day sponsor-free and support NPR's book coverage, sign up for Book of the Day+ at plus.npr.org/bookofthedayLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Palestinian American writer Hala Alyan has a personal history of exile. Over the years, the author and her relatives have been displaced from their homes in Gaza, Kuwait, and Lebanon – and she says it's difficult to fully separate herself from these places. In today's episode, she speaks with NPR's Leila Fadel about her new memoir I'll Tell You When I'm Home, which contends with themes including exile, infertility, surrogacy, and motherhood.To listen to Book of the Day sponsor-free and support NPR's book coverage, sign up for Book of the Day+ at plus.npr.org/bookofthedayLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Aisling Rawle, author of 'The Compound,' navigates the murky waters of reality TV as a semi-dystopian experience. She shares insights on how shows like Love Island influenced her writing and how contestants in her novel grapple with societal norms and superficial hierarchies. The discussion highlights themes of beauty, identity, and agency, particularly through a character named Lily, who cleverly outmaneuvers her challengers in an environment that often prioritizes looks over substance.

Elizabeth Evitts Dickinson, author of 'Claire McCardell, The Designer Who Set Women Free', explores the revolutionary impact of McCardell on women's fashion, emphasizing her focus on comfort and functional pockets. The discussion highlights how McCardell transformed clothing norms in the 1930s and 40s, allowing women greater freedom. Additionally, Robin Givhan touches on Virgil Abloh's journey from outsider to luxury fashion icon, where he challenged traditional concepts of identity and collaboration in the industry.

This discussion highlights the serious implications of Congressional cuts to federal funding for public media. It emphasizes how these funding losses threaten local journalism and community connection. The speaker passionately argues for audience support, calling attention to the vital role of independent journalism in amplifying diverse voices. Listeners are encouraged to contribute, ensuring that these essential services continue to thrive.