NPR's Book of the Day

Deborah Willis is one of the foremost authorities on Black photography. The MacArthur “genius award” winner has dedicated her career to cataloging and showcasing Black photographers and photos of Black people. And her seminal work – Reflections in Black: A History of Black Photographers 1840 to the Present – has been reissued after 25 years. In today’s episode, Michel Martin visits Willis at New York University to talk about the expanded edition of the book and the gallery show inspired by it. 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

Marisa Kashino, a journalist and author whose real estate reporting inspired her debut novel, explores the cutthroat homebuying journey of an ambitious millennial woman named Margot. They discuss the obstacles millennials face in securing homes and how Margot’s ambition stems from her humble origins. Kashino humorously reveals why readers will end up rooting for Margot despite her questionable tactics. The conversation also dives into the pressures of motherhood and the evolving definition of the American dream, serving as a cautionary tale about obsession with homeownership.

Ramtin Arablouei, a journalist and producer for NPR, dives deep into Frank Herbert’s iconic novel Dune, revealing how its intricate worldbuilding shaped his perspective as a young reader. He explores Dune's cultural impact, likening its themes to those found in Star Wars, and discusses Herbert's critical view on leadership and politics. The conversation also touches on the novel's respectful portrayal of Islam and its relevance to today's geopolitical landscape. Ramtin offers a compelling case for why this dense masterpiece deserves a fresh look.

Ann Packer, a novelist known for her exploration of complex emotional landscapes, discusses her book where a woman's final request reshapes her husband's identity as a caregiver. She reveals the deep psychological effects of an uncertain prognosis on planning for the future. Craig Thomas, co-creator of How I Met Your Mother, shares insights from his new novel, highlighting how a family’s memoir about raising a son with disabilities gets adapted into a film, exploring the bittersweet realities of caregiving and the comedic side of adult life with disabilities.

Abby Phillip, a CNN anchor and biographer, delves into Jesse Jackson’s political ascent in her book A Dream Deferred. She highlights Jackson as a pivotal figure in the Civil Rights Movement, detailing his dual approach to activism and politics. Abby discusses the complexities of Jackson's early perceptions and his influential 1984 and 1988 presidential runs. She argues contemporary movements like Black Lives Matter can learn from Jackson's strategies, emphasizing the need for both protest and political power.

Join Brandon Hobson, an acclaimed author and Cherokee Nation citizen, as he delves into his novel, The Devil Is a Southpaw. Hobson explores the complexity of unreliable narration through Milton, a writer whose jealousy toward a fellow artist adds depth to the story. He shares insights from his time in juvenile facilities and discusses how trauma informs his characters. The lush Oklahoma landscape serves as a backdrop for exploring artistic ambition, playful surrealism, and the intricate layers of identity in storytelling.

Senator John Fetterman delves into his transformative journey after winning his Senate seat. He candidly discusses his mental health struggles, including his stroke and battles with depression, aiming to inspire others facing similar challenges. Fetterman shares his frustrations with the Senate and expresses his views on selecting political battles, highlighting Israel as a critical issue. He emphasizes the importance of moral clarity and nuance, urging fellow Democrats to reconsider their approaches amid shifting perceptions.

Ana Garriga and Carmen Urbita, academics and co-authors of Convent Wisdom, delve into the invaluable lessons from Renaissance-era nuns. They discuss how these nuns carved out spaces for women's writing and community, presenting a counterpoint to modern loneliness. Carmen shares how studying their lives helped her navigate personal challenges, while Ana cleverly ties Sor Juana's rhetorical strategies to crafting assertive emails today. Their insights highlight how centuries-old wisdom can address contemporary dilemmas and foster personal growth.

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.