NPR's Book of the Day

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.

Explore the fascinating journey of The Onion, a pioneer in modern news satire, through its humorous origins and evolution. Christine Wenc shares insights from her time on the original staff, highlighting the quirky conditions that fueled creativity. Discover how The Onion tackled the delicate task of satirizing post-9/11 America, balancing humor and sensitivity. Wenc argues that The Onion represents 'good fake news,' redefining the role of satire in shaping media discourse and public perception.

Two poets discuss their unique approaches to making poetry accessible and engaging. John Himmelman shares his illustrated collection for children featuring Ivo, a boy living in a moon snail shell, emphasizing humor and brevity. Reginald Dwayne Betts reflects on his transformative journey from prison to poetry, using his latest work to explore themes of loss and joy through the lens of pet ownership. Both authors aim to connect with diverse audiences, showing that poetry can resonate on personal and societal levels.

Callan Wink, author of "Beartooth" and a fly fishing guide, shares the gripping story of two brothers navigating financial despair after their father's death near Yellowstone National Park. Inspired by a bar tale, their quest for survival leads them into the morally ambiguous world of illegal elk antler collection. Wink discusses the stark contrast between the park's beauty and the brothers' dire circumstances, along with the complex dynamics of family, grief, and tough ethical choices that shape their bond in a wilderness fraught with challenges.

Senator Chuck Schumer, the highest-ranking Jewish elected official in U.S. history, dives into the alarming rise of antisemitism in America since 2017. He discusses the complexities of criticizing Israeli policies without fueling hate and examines how political events, including January 6th, have intensified antisemitic sentiments. Schumer also touches on the impact on Jewish students at Columbia University following recent conflicts, and the role of digital platforms in spreading anti-Jewish attitudes, urging for increased awareness and advocacy.

Allison Epstein delves into her novel, which gives Fagin from 'Oliver Twist' a complex backstory. She critiques the antisemitic elements of Dickens' portrayal while exploring Fagin's challenging childhood and survival instincts in London's slums. The discussion also touches on the moral implications of Dickens’ work and the imperfections of his storytelling. Epstein offers a fresh perspective on identity and intent, showcasing how classical narratives can be boldly reimagined.

A former Meta executive reveals her disillusioning journey from Facebook superfan to critic. She brands Mark Zuckerberg and Sheryl Sandberg as 'careless' leaders complicit in authoritarian practices. The conversation dives into Meta's contentious negotiations with China over censorship and examines the company's political influence, particularly during the 2016 election. Wynn-Williams discusses the ethical pitfalls of prioritizing profit over user safety and the resulting consequences for accountability in corporate tech leadership.

Joseph Finder, author of the thriller "The Oligarch's Daughter," discusses the intricacies of evading detection in the digital age while exploring the stark contrasts between typical wealth and oligarch wealth. He shares insights on surveillance and the challenges of living under a new identity. Meanwhile, Jo Nesbø introduces a morally complex character in his novel "Blood Ties," and reflects on advice from Christopher Nolan about crafting relatable protagonists. Both authors reveal how small towns serve as perfect backdrops for dark secrets and thrilling narratives.

In 1936, Merle Oberon became the first Asian woman–and person of color–to receive an Oscar nomination for best actress. She was nominated for her role in The Dark Angel and later starred in films like Wuthering Heights. But Oberon kept her mixed-race, South Asian heritage a secret, passing as white for her entire career. Mayukh Sen tells this story in Love, Queenie, the first biography of Oberon. In today's episode, Sen speaks with Here & Now's Deepa Fernandes about prejudice the actress faced during her upbringing in India, the role men played in her career, and the elaborate stories she told to keep her identity a secret.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