NPR's Book of the Day

Craig Brown, a witty author and essayist known for his satirical takes on British life, discusses his biography of Queen Elizabeth II. He reveals how she served as an emotional anchor for the British public, even inspiring dreams. The conversation dives into her unique bond with corgis and her sister, Princess Margaret, highlighting complexities rather than rivalry. Brown also touches on her playful side, showcased during her iconic appearance at the 2012 Olympics, and reflects on her unwavering character as a symbol of hope and continuity in British society.

Ann Powers, NPR's music critic, dives into her book that highlights women's often overlooked contributions to music history. She discusses how legendary artists like Cher and Mary J. Blige have paved the way, despite facing significant struggles. Powers emphasizes the necessity of recognizing female influence in shaping the music industry. The conversation connects past challenges to current discussions about equity, celebrating the radical history of women who have transformed music through their revolutionary art.

Scott Simon interviews Owen Han, a TikTok sensation and former hospital worker turned sandwich guru. Owen discusses his journey from personal loss to culinary creativity, inspired by his family's Italian and Chinese heritage. He redefines what a sandwich can be, emphasizing texture and sound as vital elements of the dining experience. They explore iconic sandwich recipes and how social media has transformed cooking trends, all while celebrating the joy and comfort that food brings to our lives.

Carrie Lowry-Schuettpelz, a passionate author and data analyst, dives into the complexities of Native American identity in her book, 'The Indian Card.' She discusses her discovery of a surge in people identifying as Native through Census data. The conversation touches on the historical implications of federal policies like the Indian Relocation Act, revealing how these have shaped personal and collective identities. Lowry-Schuettpelz shares poignant stories of disconnection, belonging, and the emotional impact of cultural loss in Native communities.

Ina Garten, the beloved Barefoot Contessa, discusses her transition from a federal job to culinary fame, sharing how her upbringing shaped her food philosophy. Stephen and Evie McGee-Colbert dive into their cookbook, reflecting on family recipes and childhood memories from South Carolina's Lowcountry. They chat about the joy of cooking together 31 years into marriage and believe even simple ingredients can yield magnificent flavors. Their stories celebrate the intersection of food, family, and creativity.

Jason Reynolds, a celebrated novelist and poet known for his impactful storytelling for kids of color, dives into his latest work, 'Twenty-Four Seconds from Now.' He discusses the groundbreaking representation of love stories for Black boys, exploring the emotional intricacies of young love between Neona and Aria as they approach adulthood. Reynolds also highlights the importance of open conversations between parents and children about relationships, emphasizing tenderness and vulnerability as strengths in navigating life's complexities.

In this enlightening discussion, U.S. Poet Laureate Ada Limón, whose poem now graces NASA's Europa Clipper spacecraft, reflects on the wonders of human curiosity. She shares insights into her poem 'In Praise of Mystery,' exploring its emotional weight and philosophical depth as it journeys to Jupiter. Limón also delves into her collaboration with illustrator Peter Sís, emphasizing the intersection of poetry and visual art. Finally, she reads her poignant poem, celebrating our connection to the universe and the mysteries that await.

Malcolm Gladwell, a journalist and bestselling author known for his iconic works like 'The Tipping Point,' dives deep into his new book, 'Revenge of the Tipping Point.' He discusses the dark evolution of social dynamics, spotlighting the OxyContin crisis and how local factors influence Medicare fraud. Gladwell reflects on demographic shifts affecting political landscapes and the criticism he has faced, emphasizing the delicate balance between engaging storytelling and scholarly depth. It's a candid exploration of his changing perspectives and the nature of critique.

Han Kang, the 2024 Nobel Prize-winning South Korean author, explores profound themes in her acclaimed novel, The Vegetarian. She discusses how the protagonist's choice to stop eating meat disrupts familial bonds and highlights societal expectations. Kang delves into gender dynamics, reflecting on the oppressive societal structures that shape her characters' lives. The conversation invites listeners to contemplate human violence and empathy through the lens of her poetic prose, underlining the deep complexities of trauma and resistance.

Cindy Hohl, the President of the American Library Association, shares insights from her tenure amidst rising book bans across the U.S. She discusses the alarming rise in censorship, with over 4,200 titles banned this year alone. Hohl highlights the stress faced by librarians and the impact on their profession, particularly regarding books on race and LGBTQ+ identities. She also emphasizes the critical role of community activism in supporting diverse literature and how librarians can advocate for inclusivity despite political pressures.