NPR's Book of the Day

Two biographical picture books introduce children to the life stories of writer Toni Morrison and civil rights activist Ruby Bridges. First, Andrea Davis Pinkney initially encountered Morrison's work as a child. But later, she became the editor of Morrison's children's books. Now, Pinkney is out with And She Was Loved, a picture book about Morrison's life. In today's episode, the author talks with Here & Now's Lisa Mullins about her decision to write the book in the form of a poem and love letter, Morrison's upbringing in the oral tradition, and how Pinkney approached her editing role. Then, Ruby Bridges tells her own story in an autobiographical picture book. In I Am Ruby Bridges, she recounts her experience as the first Black child to desegregate an all white school in 1960. In today's episode, she joins NPR's Mary Louise Kelly for a conversation about the book. They discuss what that first day of school looked like through a six-year-old's eyes – and the way white parents responded.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

A while back, Victoria Christopher Murray set out on a mission to learn about the women of the Harlem Renaissance. But in her research, she mostly found stories about men – until she came across Jessie Redmon Fauset. Fauset, whom Langston Hughes called "the midwife of the Harlem Renaissance," was a writer who eventually became literary editor at The Crisis, the NAACP's magazine. Her life serves as inspiration for Murray's new historical fiction novel Harlem Rhapsody. In today's episode, Murray speaks with NPR's Pien Huang about the historical impact of Fauset's romantic relationship with W.E.B. Du Bois and Murray's decision to include the affair in the book.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

NPR Pop Culture Happy Hour host Linda Holmes knows a thing or two about audio. She leans into this knowledge in her latest novel, in which a podcast producer, Cecily Foster, gets the opportunity to host her own show. The catch? The podcast is about her love life, and she has to embark on 20 first dates set up by an influencer. In today's episode, Holmes speaks with NPR's Asma Khalid about the tropes of romantic comedy, and what it means to love your work and your craft without tying all your passions to one job.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

Kelsey McKinney dives into the intricate world of gossip, drawing from her upbringing in an Evangelical church. She argues that gossip is not inherently evil but can be a vital social tool. The conversation weaves through the complexities of gossip in reality TV, where it shapes our understanding of relationships and community. McKinney also humorously tackles the tricky balance of discussing rumors openly while shedding light on the insights gossip can provide for personal growth and social awareness.

In Charlotte Wood's Stone Yard Devotional, an unnamed narrator renounces modern life in Sydney, retreating to a cloistered religious community in her hometown. But soon after, a series of three visitations causes the narrator to rethink the choice she's made. In today's episode, Wood speaks with NPR's Ari Shapiro about the novel, which was shortlisted for the Booker Prize in 2024. They discuss Wood's decision to withhold judgement of her character's actions, the biblical nature of the story's disruptions, and Australia's position at the forefront of the climate crisis.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

Dive into the rich legacy of James Baldwin as experts spotlight his debut novel, portraying a young boy's struggle with identity and societal expectations. Explore Baldwin's expressive narrative in 'Go Tell It on the Mountain,' revealing personal and broad social issues. Gain fresh insights on his poignant essay collection, 'The Fire Next Time,' featuring philosophical reflections on race and love. Unpack Baldwin's complex relationship with politics and faith, illustrated through his fascinating encounter with Elijah Muhammad.

Dr. Lydia Kang and Nate Pedersen dive into the quirky world of conspiracy theories, poking fun at bizarre beliefs like Bigfoot. They discuss why humans are drawn to these strange ideas and the risks of misinformation. The conversation highlights historical misconceptions linked to social movements, revealing the humorous side of pseudoscience. It's a light-hearted exploration that balances entertainment with caution about indulging in more serious conspiracies.

Pádraig Ó Tuama, an Irish poet and the mind behind the podcast Poetry Unbound, brings his unique insights into the human experience. He shares how he curated his anthology, 44 Poems on Being with Each Other, exploring the intricate dance between fear and love in poetry. Ó Tuama discusses the emotional depth of his collection, Kitchen Hymns, revealing how poetry can serve as a secular form of liturgy. He also tackles the complex themes of belief and personal reflection, highlighting poetry's transformative power.

Rich Benjamin, a cultural anthropologist and grandson of former Haitian president Daniel Fignolé, unpacks his family's buried history in his memoir, 'Talk to Me.' He shares intriguing details about his grandfather's brief but impactful presidency and the labor advocacy that marked his legacy. Benjamin discusses the profound 'wall of silence' his family erected, reflecting on the connections between personal narratives and political events. He reveals how declassified State Department documents helped him uncover the complexities of this hidden heritage.

Mark Greaney dives into the thrilling world of his latest espionage novel, where ex-CIA operative Court Gentry risks it all to rescue his love from Russian captivity. He shares fascinating insights from his trip to Russia, revealing how real-life experiences enhance his storytelling. Greaney also discusses the influence of Cold War literature and scuba diving on his writing. Plus, he delves into the subtleties of the 'gray man' concept, showcasing the balance between authenticity and imagination in crafting compelling narratives.