NPR's Book of the Day

Dive into the intriguing tale of five sisters in 18th-century England who are ensnared by wild rumors claiming they bark like dogs. Author Xenobe Purvis explores how gossip shapes their lives and reflects societal perceptions of women. The discussion highlights the dangerous power of rumors and the hidden motives behind them, drawing fascinating parallels to contemporary issues surrounding girlhood and societal expectations.

Alexis Okeowo, a staff writer at The New Yorker and author of 'Blessings and Disasters,' dives into Alabama’s rich yet complicated history shaped by diverse voices. They share personal stories that challenge the negative stereotypes often attached to the state. Okeowo highlights the experiences of marginalized communities like the Poarch Creek Indians and West African immigrants, emphasizing the beauty and resilience of Alabama’s identity. Through poignant reflections, they celebrate community and the necessity of including all narratives in understanding this complex tapestry.

Emily Hunt Kivel, author of the novel 'Dwelling,' takes listeners on a journey through her unique blend of fairy tale and reality in addressing the American housing crisis. She follows protagonist Evie, who faces eviction and finds solace in a giant cowboy boot in Texas. Kivel discusses how whimsy and humor shine a light on serious themes like homelessness and capitalism. Her insights into resilience, community, and the struggle for belonging invite listeners to reflect on their own paths in a turbulent world.

Elizabeth Barks Cox, author of 'Reading Van Gogh: An Amateur's Search for God,' shares her journey through Van Gogh's letters, revealing his profound empathy and the spiritual revelations they inspired. Imani Perry, a Harvard professor and author of 'Black in Blues,' dives into the significance of the color blue in African American culture, highlighting its emotional ties to history and identity. Together, they explore how art can unlock deep personal and cultural meanings, weaving beauty, struggle, and community into the narrative.

Kate Marvel explores the emotional landscape of climate change in a novel way. She discusses how emotions like fear and pride can enhance the communication of scientific facts. The conversation highlights the importance of acknowledging these feelings to drive action against climate crises. Marvel also critiques the hubris of geoengineering and reflects on historical lessons related to human responses to environmental challenges. Ultimately, the podcast argues for a deeper emotional connection to motivate real change in climate discourse.

Jason Mott's new novel dives into the complex interplay between authors and their narratives, reflecting on personal identity in America. He explores love, imperfection, and the emotional ties to national identity. The discussion includes dual narratives that intertwine memoir with fiction, revealing truths while protecting privacy. Gun culture's influence on personal trauma is also examined, using a character's experiences to highlight societal challenges. Mott considers how literary accolades shape public perception and our collective storytelling responsibility.

Rax King, author of the candid essay collection 'Sloppy,' shares her powerful journey through addiction and her three years of sobriety. She discusses how sobriety reshaped her creative writing and dispels the myth that great literature requires substance use. King also reflects on her complex relationship with her father and the lessons learned from it, emphasizing the transformative power of connection and support. With insights about creativity and personal growth, she offers a fresh perspective on embracing life without substances.

Liza Tully, author of the new murder mystery featuring the intergenerational duo of detective Aubrey Merritt and her eager assistant Olivia Blunt, shares insights into her creative process. She discusses the humor and tension in their dynamic, while exploring themes of morality and social class through their investigation of a wealthy widow's mysterious death. Tully also delves into the meticulous craft of laying out clues that reflect human nature, balancing planning with spontaneity in storytelling, making for a captivating listen.

Julia Riew, a composer and playwright, co-authored 'The Last Tiger' with her brother, drawing inspiration from their grandparents' experiences during the Japanese occupation of Korea. In this conversation, they dive deep into the historical context of their work, discussing the harrowing choices faced by Japanese Americans in WWII and the impact of their mixed heritage. They also reflect on the importance of storytelling in navigating identity and resilience, linking past injustices to present-day immigration challenges.

In a gripping discussion, Chris Sweeney explores the remarkable life of Roxie Laybourne, the pioneering forensic ornithologist. Her groundbreaking work identifying birds linked to airline disasters significantly changed aviation safety protocols. The conversation also delves into the challenges she faced in a male-dominated field, shedding light on the sexism that pervaded her career. Laybourne's legacy continues to influence bird management at airports, making her story a fascinating intersection of science and societal change.