NPR's Book of the Day

By the early 2000s, only a handful of queer female characters had ever been featured on television. Then, The L Word entered the scene in 2004, exploring lesbian identity, friendship and sex over six seasons and a 2019 reboot. Now, two of The L Word's stars – Leisha Hailey and Kate Moennig – are out with a new memoir So Gay For You. In today's episode, the authors talk with NPR's Juana Summers about the way representation of queer characters has changed since the 2000s, the parts of the show that didn't stand the test of time, and their tips for lifelong friendship.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

Taylor Jenkins Reid, bestselling author of Atmosphere, shares her captivating journey in crafting a novel about Joan Goodwin, one of NASA's first women astronauts. She reveals how her deep research involved scouring old PDFs and visiting the Johnson Space Center. Reid explores the early challenges female astronauts faced in a male-dominated field and delves into themes of ambition and love amidst the stars. Tune in to hear how these pioneering women navigated both the physical and emotional realms of space exploration.

Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand and author of 'A Different Kind of Power,' shares her unique journey balancing leadership and motherhood. She reflects on the historic moment of becoming a mother while in office and the challenges of navigating parental guilt amidst political responsibilities. Ardern offers candid insights into the complexities of being a young woman in politics and the emotional journey of stepping down as leader. Her personal anecdotes highlight the resilience required to thrive in both roles and the importance of community support.

Melissa Febos, a writer and professor, shares her journey of celibacy following a painful breakup, exploring the healing power of self-reflection. She discusses how abstinence allowed her to navigate desire and develop self-advocacy, freeing herself from societal expectations of love and attraction. Febos highlights her transformative year, emphasizing the importance of body neutrality and self-acceptance. Through this experience, she rediscovered joy, creative expression, and a new perspective on intimate relationships.

Dive into the poignant world of Susan Choi's new novel, where a 10-year-old girl, Louisa, grapples with her father's mysterious disappearance. Explore the complex dynamics of family and identity against the backdrop of historical tensions between Korea and Japan. Choi reflects on the intricacies of love, connection, and the unique challenges of crafting narratives that intertwine personal and historical stories. This rich discussion invites listeners to ponder the nature of relationships and the impact of tragedy on family bonds.

Explore the vanishing North American prairie, once teeming with bison, elk, and bald eagles. Writers delve into the ecological impacts of industrial agriculture, showcasing how farmlands have replaced vital ecosystems. They celebrate the resilience of prairie grasses and the revival of wildlife in restored areas. Discover the challenges of transforming wetlands into farmland and the environmental degradation that follows. Plus, learn about sustainable farming practices that can help reconnect humanity with the prairie’s beauty.

Yrsa Daley-Ward’s novel dives into the surreal lives of twin sisters Clara and Dempsey, who confront the mystery of their mother’s death. On their 30th birthday, Clara believes she sees her mother—at the same age as them. The conversation delves into the emotional turbulence between estranged sisters, grappling with grief and the desire for closure. Daley-Ward touches on writing as a method of wish-fulfillment and the intricate dynamics of family relationships that shape our identities.

Author Madeleine Thien discusses her nearly decade-long journey crafting her new novel, which centers on a father and daughter's refuge in a timeless place. The story interweaves the lives of historical thinkers like Hannah Arendt and Du Fu, highlighting themes of resilience and love in the face of adversity. Thien reflects on how philosophy and literature have influenced her perceptions of morality and freedom, especially in today's challenging socio-political landscape. This exploration reveals the enduring power of storytelling across centuries.

Discover two captivating novels that spotlight women in the entertainment industry tackling ambition and societal pressures. One narrative follows Mia, a Palestinian-American juggling standup comedy and family expectations, unearthing secrets from her grandmother's past. The other dives into the experiences of secretaries at a Hollywood agency, navigating sexism while striving for more. These stories weave humor, resilience, and the complexities of identity, offering a fresh perspective on women's challenges and triumphs in a male-dominated landscape.

Jeffrey Seller opens up about his journey from a low-income childhood in Detroit to Broadway success. He shares how being a theater kid helped him navigate life as an adopted, gay, Jewish person. The discussion dives into his passion for productions like 'In the Heights' and 'Hamilton,' and the magical impact of theater on audiences. Seller also reflects on the surprising professions of his father, adding depth to his personal story. It's a heartfelt look at how creativity and performance can shape identities.