NPR's Book of the Day
NPR
In need of a good read? Or just want to keep up with the books everyone's talking about? NPR's Book of the Day gives you today's very best writing in a snackable, skimmable, pocket-sized podcast. Whether you're looking to engage with the big questions of our times – or temporarily escape from them – we've got an author who will speak to you, all genres, mood and writing styles included. Catch today's great books in 15 minutes or less.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jun 21, 2024 • 21min
'Never Enough' and 'Roctogenarians' examine the culture of success
Authors Jennifer Breheny Wallace and Mo Rocca discuss 'toxic achievement culture' in youth and late-life success stories. They challenge societal norms, emphasizing the importance of mental well-being and pursuing dreams regardless of age. The podcast showcases inspiring journeys of individuals who defied expectations and found success later in life.
Jun 20, 2024 • 9min
'Tehrangeles' follows a family of aspiring Iranian influencers in LA
Author Porochista Khakpour discusses her novel 'Tehrangeles' which follows an Iranian-American family in LA aspiring to be influencers. The podcast explores themes of wealth, identity, assimilation, and cultural definitions of success in the Iranian-American community in Los Angeles.
Jun 19, 2024 • 9min
Glynnis MacNicol's memoir brings readers to a summer of pleasure in Paris
Author Glynnis MacNicol discusses her memoir about finding pleasure in Paris post-pandemic. She shares her indulgent experiences with food, wine, and romance after a lonely lockdown. The podcast explores themes of pursuing happiness and liberation over societal expectations.
4 snips
Jun 18, 2024 • 9min
In 'One of Our Kind,' a Black family moves to a planned utopia
Author Nicola Yoon discusses writing in the thriller genre and dismantling the idea that Black people are a monolith. They explore themes of happiness, racism, and societal challenges in the novel 'One of Our Kind', set in a planned Black utopia. The podcast also touches on the inspiration behind the book, including influences from Toni Morrison and 'The Stepford Wives'.
Jun 17, 2024 • 7min
Questlove maps a cultural revolution in 'Hip-Hop is History'
Questlove discusses the evolution of hip-hop and his new book 'Hip-Hop is History'. He reflects on the genre, personal journey, and cultural impact. Questlove shares insights on rap battles, The Roots, and making a positive impact through music.
Jun 14, 2024 • 22min
'Dear Sister,' 'A Fatal Inheritance' examine difficult family histories
Authors Michelle Horton and Lawrence Ingrassia discuss family hardships in 'Dear Sister' and 'A Fatal Inheritance'. Horton's book delves into domestic abuse and legal challenges, while Ingrassia explores generations of cancer in families and medical research advancements.
Jun 13, 2024 • 12min
Chelsea Devantez's memoir finds the humor in dark situations
Comedian Chelsea Devantez discusses her memoir, sharing darkly humorous tales from her past including co-parenting after divorces, being a domestic violence survivor, and the experience of being a sperm donor's child. She highlights the importance of humor in coping with life's challenges.
Jun 12, 2024 • 9min
Stephen King finishes a story 45 years in the making in 'You Like It Darker'
Stephen King discusses finishing a story 45 years later, exploring themes of destiny and morality. He reflects on his writing process, nostalgia, and the influence of our actions on predetermined events. The episode sheds light on King's prolific career and his latest collection of short stories, 'You Like It Darker'.
Jun 11, 2024 • 6min
The autobiography of John Swanson Jacobs offers a new look at slavery and migration
Jonathan Schroeder, a literary historian, discusses the newly discovered autobiography of John Swanson Jacobs, Harriet Jacobs' brother. They delve into Jacobs' escape from slavery, his life as a critic of America, and his scathing critique of the United States in 1855. The podcast explores how Jacobs challenges traditional narratives of slavery, migration, and America's founding documents, shedding light on previously unknown aspects of his life and legacy.
Jun 10, 2024 • 9min
'The Mango Tree' is a memoir about growing up mixed-race Filipina in south Florida
Journalist Annabelle Tometich shares her memoir 'The Mango Tree,' revealing a turbulent childhood in a mixed-race family in Florida. She discusses the violence in her household, the significance of a mango tree, and the challenges of navigating identity and memory while accepting the past.
