NPR's Book of the Day

Melissa Febos, a writer and professor, shares her journey of celibacy following a painful breakup, exploring the healing power of self-reflection. She discusses how abstinence allowed her to navigate desire and develop self-advocacy, freeing herself from societal expectations of love and attraction. Febos highlights her transformative year, emphasizing the importance of body neutrality and self-acceptance. Through this experience, she rediscovered joy, creative expression, and a new perspective on intimate relationships.

Dive into the poignant world of Susan Choi's new novel, where a 10-year-old girl, Louisa, grapples with her father's mysterious disappearance. Explore the complex dynamics of family and identity against the backdrop of historical tensions between Korea and Japan. Choi reflects on the intricacies of love, connection, and the unique challenges of crafting narratives that intertwine personal and historical stories. This rich discussion invites listeners to ponder the nature of relationships and the impact of tragedy on family bonds.

Explore the vanishing North American prairie, once teeming with bison, elk, and bald eagles. Writers delve into the ecological impacts of industrial agriculture, showcasing how farmlands have replaced vital ecosystems. They celebrate the resilience of prairie grasses and the revival of wildlife in restored areas. Discover the challenges of transforming wetlands into farmland and the environmental degradation that follows. Plus, learn about sustainable farming practices that can help reconnect humanity with the prairie’s beauty.

Yrsa Daley-Ward’s novel dives into the surreal lives of twin sisters Clara and Dempsey, who confront the mystery of their mother’s death. On their 30th birthday, Clara believes she sees her mother—at the same age as them. The conversation delves into the emotional turbulence between estranged sisters, grappling with grief and the desire for closure. Daley-Ward touches on writing as a method of wish-fulfillment and the intricate dynamics of family relationships that shape our identities.

Author Madeleine Thien discusses her nearly decade-long journey crafting her new novel, which centers on a father and daughter's refuge in a timeless place. The story interweaves the lives of historical thinkers like Hannah Arendt and Du Fu, highlighting themes of resilience and love in the face of adversity. Thien reflects on how philosophy and literature have influenced her perceptions of morality and freedom, especially in today's challenging socio-political landscape. This exploration reveals the enduring power of storytelling across centuries.

Discover two captivating novels that spotlight women in the entertainment industry tackling ambition and societal pressures. One narrative follows Mia, a Palestinian-American juggling standup comedy and family expectations, unearthing secrets from her grandmother's past. The other dives into the experiences of secretaries at a Hollywood agency, navigating sexism while striving for more. These stories weave humor, resilience, and the complexities of identity, offering a fresh perspective on women's challenges and triumphs in a male-dominated landscape.

Jeffrey Seller opens up about his journey from a low-income childhood in Detroit to Broadway success. He shares how being a theater kid helped him navigate life as an adopted, gay, Jewish person. The discussion dives into his passion for productions like 'In the Heights' and 'Hamilton,' and the magical impact of theater on audiences. Seller also reflects on the surprising professions of his father, adding depth to his personal story. It's a heartfelt look at how creativity and performance can shape identities.

Peniel Joseph, a University of Texas at Austin professor and author of 'Freedom Season', dives into the pivotal events of 1963 that reshaped the American civil rights movement. He discusses the significance of Martin Luther King Jr.'s 'I Have a Dream' speech and the tragic church bombing that galvanized activism. Joseph highlights the diverse voices of the era, including James Baldwin's poignant reflections on racial injustice. The conversation also explores President Kennedy's transformative civil rights address and the crucial legislation that followed.

Dawn Staley, the head coach of the University of South Carolina women's basketball team and a gold medal-winning Olympian, shares insights from her memoir, Uncommon Favor. She reflects on her tough Philadelphia upbringing and the life lessons learned through sports. Staley discusses her journey to becoming an advocate for equal pay in women's sports, emphasizing resilience amid challenges. She also candidly addresses the emotional impact of loss, revealing how both victories and defeats shape young athletes into future champions.

Explore the chaotic journey of a food writer who ghostwrites a cookbook for a celebrity with no culinary passion. The discussion reveals the stark contrasts in their relationship, highlighting emotional ties to food memories and family recipes. Delve into how humor and personal storytelling elevate food writing, drawing inspiration from renowned writers. Discover the intimacy of shared meals and how they forge deeper connections between characters, complete with a cherished pasta recipe.