NPR's Book of the Day

Simone St. James, a bestselling author known for blending the supernatural with thrillers, dives into her latest novel, Murder Road. She discusses the eerie setting of 1995, where a honeymoon turn gone wrong leads to a chilling murder mystery. The conversation explores the captivating pull of true crime, particularly for women, and how it serves as a lens for facing societal fears. Themes of isolation, the ethical dilemmas of helping strangers, and the haunting shadows of past traumas add depth to her storytelling.

Stephen Bruno, a doorman on Manhattan's Park Avenue for 14 years, sheds light on his unique experiences in his memoir, Building Material. He discusses the blurred lines between professionalism and friendship with residents, revealing how daily micro-interactions have shaped his life. Bruno also reflects on a documentary about August Wilson that inspired his writing journey. Dive into his heartfelt stories that showcase not just the life of a doorman, but the profound connections that come from it.

Jules Feiffer, a Pulitzer Prize-winning editorial cartoonist famed for illustrating The Phantom Tollbooth, shares insights at 95 about his first graphic novel for middle graders, Amazing Grapes. He discusses how the story begins with a father's departure, leading to whimsical adventures. Feiffer emphasizes the increasing importance of play in his life and work, as well as the joy found within spontaneity in storytelling. His reflections reveal a profound shift towards embracing creativity and adventure, even amidst challenging times.

Law Roach, a celebrated image architect and stylist renowned for his work with Zendaya and Celine Dion, shares insights from his book, 'How to Build a Fashion Icon.' He reflects on his Chicago upbringing, revealing how observing his grandmother shaped his understanding of fashion. Roach discusses the transformative power of personal style and its connection to self-esteem. He emphasizes the importance of individuality and internal validation, encouraging listeners to embrace their unique identities and express their inner strength through fashion.

Jamil Zaki, a Stanford psychology professor, discusses the damaging effects of cynicism on individuals and societies, urging a shift toward 'hopeful skepticism.' He shares personal insights on how cynicism fosters division and conspiracy theories. Meanwhile, Timothy Snyder, a Yale historian, reflects on redefining freedom, especially in light of his experiences in Ukraine. He emphasizes that true freedom goes beyond mere absence of conflict, highlighting the importance of community and moral choices in fostering a deeper understanding of liberty.

Richard Osman, author of the beloved Thursday Murder Club series, joins NPR's Scott Simon to discuss his new novel, We Solve Murders. Osman reveals his creative shift from a duo to a detective trio facing a supervillain who uses chat GPT. The conversation dives into themes like fame, the nuances of human nature, and character motivations that blur the lines between good and evil. Osman also shares insights on the role of humor in storytelling and the importance of exploration in writing.

Lyndsay Rush, a former poetry skeptic turned author, opens up about her transformative journey into the world of poetry. She shares how Instagram introduced her to accessible poetic expression and reveals the humorous side of her reimagined take on Mary Oliver's 'Wild Geese.' Rush discusses the challenges of dedicating poetry to public figures, and her joy-filled poem celebrates self-acceptance and life’s exuberance, partly driven by its viral success. Engaging in a lively conversation, Mary Louise Kelly brings out Rush's unexpected love for the art.

Ta-Nehisi Coates, a celebrated author known for his profound political essays, joins NPR journalist Ayesha Rascoe for a compelling discussion. They dive into the themes of his new book, exploring book bans, the intricacies of Black identity, and the significance of historical narratives. Coates draws parallels between the injustices of Jim Crow America and the Palestinian experience. They also tackle the complexities of political writing, the impact of criticism, and the vital role literature plays in shaping understanding and relationships.

Richard Powers, an acclaimed author known for his environmental themes, discusses his latest novel 'Playground' with NPR correspondent Ari Shapiro. They dive into the awe-inspiring mysteries of the ocean, focusing on the island of Makatea in French Polynesia. Powers reveals how personal experiences, games, and a family gift about coral reefs shaped his narrative. The conversation also touches on the historical transformation of Makatea and the modern allure of 'sea-stating,' highlighting humanity's connection to both play and survival.

Meg Medina, a Newbery Medalist celebrated for her children's books, shares memories of her caring babysitter, Señora Mimí, in her new book highlighting the bond between a girl and her caregiver. Meanwhile, NBA star Jayson Tatum discusses his co-authored children’s book, Baby Dunks-a-Lot, which captures the joys of parenting and basketball. Insights into cultural representation in storytelling and the emotional dimensions of childhood shine through their conversation, blending themes of resilience, dreams, and the influence of family.