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
11 snips
Jun 7, 2024 • 29min
Ada Limón talks forgiveness, ghosts and fertility on 'Wild Card'
Ada Limón, U.S. Poet Laureate, discusses forgiveness, ghosts, and fertility on 'Wild Card'. Limón shares pivotal moments in her life tied to nature, like a childhood creek and a realization about fertility while swimming. The conversation extends to topics of grandparents, memory, and mortality, providing a glimpse into Limón's poetic inspirations.
Jun 6, 2024 • 12min
'Malas' is a novel about womanhood, curses and family history in a Texas border town
Marcela Fuentes discusses her debut novel 'Malas' set in a Texas border town, exploring themes of womanhood, family history, and Chicano politics. The protagonists challenge societal norms, uncover secrets, and navigate complex relationships, presenting a rich tapestry of cultural identity and empowerment.
Jun 5, 2024 • 9min
R.O. Kwon's novel 'Exhibit' grapples with sexual desire and Asian identity
Author R.O. Kwon discusses her novel 'Exhibit' with NPR, diving into themes of sexual desire and Asian identity. They explore the nuances of wanting to give in to desires amidst cultural perceptions and stereotypes of Asian women, touching on shame, religion, and Korean womanhood in the narrative.
Jun 4, 2024 • 12min
Kathleen Hanna remembers her path to becoming the OG 'Rebel Girl'
Kathleen Hanna, founder of the riot grrrl movement, shares how her experiences at a shelter shaped her music, activism, and feminist journey. She discusses using art to address societal issues, supporting marginalized bands, and the power of community in the punk scene.
Jun 3, 2024 • 8min
Illia Ponomarenko's memoir opens up about covering the Russian invasion of Ukraine
Journalist Illia Ponomarenko discusses his memoir about covering the Russian invasion of Ukraine, highlighting Ukrainians' determination to fight for their country, life in Bucha, and a touching encounter with his girlfriend's parents.
May 31, 2024 • 20min
Two books trace the social and historical impacts of food
Pulitzer Prize winner Victor M. Valle dives into the history of chiles in Mesoamerican cuisine, linking it to Mexican-American culture. Michelle T. King explores the life of Taiwanese chef Fu Pei-mei and her influence on Chinese food globally. They discuss the unifying power of food, chili evolution in ancient Mexico, and Fu Pei-mei's culinary legacy.
May 30, 2024 • 9min
Claire Messud's new novel is a sweeping tale of history, family and social change
Author Claire Messud discusses her novel This Strange Eventful History, inspired by her grandparents' story, focusing on identity, belonging, and political upheaval. The novel follows a family across generations from colonized Algeria to post-independence, exploring themes of auto-fiction, generational worldviews, societal shifts, and the intertwining of reality and storytelling in literature.
May 29, 2024 • 9min
Author Kazuo Ishiguro and singer Stacey Kent collaborate on new songbook
Nobel Prize-winning author Kazuo Ishiguro and jazz singer Stacey Kent discuss their collaboration on a new songbook, featuring Ishiguro's lyrics set to music by Kent's partner. They share the story of how their meeting was inspired by Ishiguro's love for Kent's music, leading to a unique artistic endeavor filled with bittersweet emotions and exploration of deep themes.
May 28, 2024 • 8min
In 'All Fours,' Miranda July tackles love, sex and reinvention in middle age
Writer and filmmaker Miranda July explores love, sex, and reinvention in middle age through her novel 'All Fours'. She discusses the interviews she conducted with women going through perimenopause and menopause, and how her protagonist's desire for something new was fueled by a whisper network with her friends.
May 27, 2024 • 8min
Doris Kearns Goodwin's new book is part memoir, part history of the 1960s
Historian Doris Kearns Goodwin discusses her new book 'An Unfinished Love Story,' based on her husband's archives from his time as a presidential aide. She reflects on personal anecdotes like the 1960 debates and relationships with Kennedy and Johnson, highlighting the social movements and achievements of the 1960s.
