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
Nov 30, 2023 • 12min
How Indian migrant workers escaped human trafficking in Mississippi
A true story of Indian migrant workers who were promised green cards but instead faced forced labor in Mississippi. The podcast explores their fight for justice, the harsh conditions they endured, their march to D.C. for demands, and the power of community organizing. It also discusses the campaign against Signal International and the importance of forming connections to build social cohesion in America.
Nov 29, 2023 • 10min
Patricia Park's new YA novel captures the complexities of race and adolescence
Patricia Park discusses her new YA novel about a Korean-Argentinian teen navigating race and adolescence. Topics include imposter syndrome, microaggressions, allyship, and the challenges of cultural diversity at school.
Nov 28, 2023 • 9min
Stephen Buoro's comic novel follows a young Nigerian man's obsession with whiteness
Author Stephen Buoro discusses his comic novel, exploring a young Nigerian man's obsession with whiteness, his conflicts with identity, and the blending of dark postcolonial violence with light-hearted teenage issues like high school crushes.
Nov 27, 2023 • 10min
'Burn It Down' exposes discrimination and toxicity behind the scenes in Hollywood
Maureen Ryan, author of 'Burn It Down', discusses the discrimination and toxicity hidden behind the scenes in Hollywood. Topics include incidents of racism and sexism, mistreatment of marginalized groups, and the importance of addressing exploitation and toxic behavior. Ryan also reflects on their own experience and the impact of speaking out, while promoting support for trans youth.
Nov 25, 2023 • 10min
'Loot' traces the love, war and art that shaped India's colonial history
Author Tanya James shares her fascination with Tipu's Tiger, a wooden automaton challenging British colonialism. The podcast explores the desire to make an impact through writing and the unpredictability of the writing process. It also discusses the themes of theft and the importance of gratitude and thankfulness.
Nov 24, 2023 • 17min
Two graphic memoirs explore growing up as a minority in the U.S.
Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist Darrin Bell and artist Edel Rodriguez discuss their graphic memoirs, exploring topics like racism, Black parents speaking to their children about race and policing, the Mariel boatlift, and their personal experiences growing up as minorities in the U.S.
Nov 23, 2023 • 9min
In 'Blackouts,' Justin Torres shines a light on silenced LGBTQ history
Author Justin Torres discusses his novel 'Blackouts' which brings marginalized queer narratives to life. Inspired by lesbian archivist Jan Gay, Torres fills in the gaps of LGBTQ history using fiction. He also explores the use of blackouts and the pathologization of LGBTQ people in testimonials.
Nov 22, 2023 • 8min
Jonathan Eig's biography of MLK explores the activist's life and faith
Biographer Jonathan Eig discusses his book on MLK, exploring his upbringing, education, and his role in the Montgomery bus boycott. The podcast also covers MLK's inspiring journey as a leader, his unwavering convictions, and his spirituality in the face of scrutiny and surveillance.
Nov 21, 2023 • 9min
In 'The Covenant of Water,' Abraham Verghese traces an Indian family's drowning curse
Abraham Verghese, a physician and professor at Stanford University, discusses his novel 'The Covenant of Water' which explores a family plagued by drowning deaths. He explores the therapeutic benefits of writing for doctors and how novels help physicians confront mortality and improve patient care through storytelling.
Nov 21, 2023 • 4min
Discover your next great read with NPR's Books We Love
In this podcast, Andrew Limbong and Irish Appearo discuss NPR's Books We Love guide, highlighting the extensive list of book recommendations across various genres and the user-friendly filters on the website.
