NPR's Book of the Day

Carlos Moreno, the visionary behind the 15-Minute City concept, shares his ideas on creating interconnected communities where everything is within a short walk or bike ride. He discusses urban accessibility and its potential to combat climate change. Carol Mithers, author of Rethinking Rescue, highlights the importance of supporting pet owners, especially in low-income areas, to keep families together with their beloved pets. Lori Weise, known as the Dog Lady, advocates for innovative rescue approaches that focus on human-animal bonds, emphasizing empathy in animal welfare.

Nathan Newman, author of the comic novel 'How to Leave the House,' joins journalist David Folkenflik to discuss the misadventures of Natwest, a 23-year-old searching for a missing package before heading to university. Their conversation dives into the quirky characters he encounters, like an eccentric dentist, and how these interactions challenge Natwest's self-perception. They also touch on the impact of digital culture on identity, blending humor with insightful reflections on personal growth.

Nate Silver, a renowned author and data expert, shares insights from his book on the lives of professional risk-takers. He defines two distinct groups: "the River," where bold innovators like hedge fund managers and scientists thrive, and "the Village," made up of cautious academics. Silver discusses how cancel culture influences these ecosystems and compares the daring mindsets of risk-takers with the conformist tendencies of traditional academics. He also delves into the role of data-driven decisions in shaping economic growth and societal norms.

Elvira K. Gonzalez, a talented author from Laredo, Texas, shares her powerful memoir, 'Hurdles in the Dark.' She recounts her tumultuous childhood, detailing her mother’s kidnapping and her own time in juvenile detention. Gonzalez discusses the beauty and challenges of her upbringing, highlighting the resilience that helped her navigate those dark times. She also candidly addresses the complexities of her experiences in athletics, including the difficult dynamics with coach-athlete relationships, and advocates for protecting young athletes from abuse.

Ken Krimstein, the creator of a compelling graphic novel, dives into the intriguing intersection of two intellectual giants, Albert Einstein and Franz Kafka, who both called Prague home in the early 20th century. In conversation with NPR's Scott Simon, they discuss how their paths crossed socially and musically. The vibrant cafe culture of Prague served as a backdrop for their mutual search for truth, stimulating their groundbreaking ideas. Krimstein vividly imagines how these two minds might have influenced each other in profound ways.

Rachel Zimmerman is the author of a poignant memoir that chronicles her journey through grief after losing her husband to suicide. In this discussion, she shares her struggles with loss and the resilience required to rebuild her life and support her children. The conversation also touches on 'A Haunted Girl,' a graphic novel co-written by Ethan and Naomi Sacks, which addresses anxiety and depression through a supernatural lens. The authors emphasize the importance of humor and empathy in navigating mental health challenges, making these stories both relatable and thought-provoking.

In this engaging discussion, Bram Stoker Award-winning author Gabino Iglesias talks with NPR correspondent Ayesha Rascoe about his latest novel, which explores themes of grief, vengeance, and deep friendship in the backdrop of Puerto Rico's tumultuous past. They dive into how the tragic loss of a friend's mother compels a group to take drastic actions and the complexities of their emotional bonds. Iglesias also reflects on his personal journey into horror writing and the impact of Hurricane Maria on society and storytelling.

Jane Rosenberg, a courtroom sketch artist with four decades of experience, shares her captivating journey in the courtroom. She reveals her unique role during high-profile trials, including drawing notable figures like Martha Stewart and Donald Trump. Rosenberg discusses why mobsters provide fun subject matter and recalls the unusual request to add more hair to a defendant's portrait. She also reflects on the emotional weight of capturing pivotal moments in justice, including a haunting experience with a botched electrocution.

Rufaro Faith Mazarura, a fresh voice in rom-coms, shares her love story set against the fictional 2024 Olympics, where star runner Zeke and intern Olivia’s whirlwind romance unfolds amidst the chaos. She discusses why the Olympics serve as a perfect backdrop for romance and reflects on the lack of similar stories. The conversation also dives into the humorous challenges of writing within the constraints of the International Olympic Committee’s legalities, including the quirky details about cardboard beds. A delightful blend of love, competition, and creativity!

Jessica Goudeau, a writer delving into her family's history, uncovers the harsh realities of Texas's past in her new book. She discusses how language around terms like 'undocumented' shapes narratives of identity. Goudeau's research reveals her family's ties to both celebrated and troubling events in Texas history, addressing systemic racism and slavery. She also highlights the significance of indigenous struggles and examines the privileges woven into settlers' narratives, urging a reevaluation of America's mythmaking.