New Books Network

Caroline Peyton, an associate professor at the University of Memphis, dives deep into the American South's nuclear history in her new book. She explores how the region's culture and politics shaped its development of nuclear energy. From the iconic Oak Ridge and Savannah River sites to the nuclear safety concerns in local communities, Peyton highlights both the economic gains and risks of this atomic legacy. The discussion also touches on the role of Southern governors and the influence of notable figures like Jimmy Carter in shaping nuclear policy. Plus, a sneak peek at her next project on tornado history!

In this insightful discussion, Giles Tremlett, a prize-winning biographer and historian specializing in 20th-century Spain, dives deep into the complex legacy of Francisco Franco. Tremlett unpacks Franco's volatile family dynamics, discusses his rise as the youngest general in Europe, and reveals the strategic alliances he forged during the Civil War with Hitler and Mussolini. He explores Franco's pragmatic governance style, the interplay of fear and control, and the long-lasting impact of his rule on modern Spain, challenging traditional narratives about the dictator.

Catherine Clarke, a historian and professor at the Institute of Historical Research, explores England's rich past through twenty-five poignant poems. She shares how these works, spanning from the 8th century to today, reveal diverse experiences, emotions, and perspectives. Clarke discusses the significance of choosing poems not for their popularity but for their historical insights, and recontextualizes notable events like Agincourt. From the hidden lives of servants to political commentary, each poem becomes a gateway into England's multifaceted history.

Elwin Hofman, an Assistant Professor of Cultural History, discusses his work on The Business of Pleasure, which explores the complex history of paid sex in Belgium. He reveals how Belgium's decriminalization of sex work in 2022 marks a significant turning point. Hofman delves into the historical regulation of commercial sex, from the infamous bathhouses of the fifteenth century to the visibility of male sex workers. He also discusses the evolution of societal narratives about sex work and sheds light on the lives of sex workers through careful analysis of biased archival sources.

In this engaging conversation, children's book author Melissa Stoller shares insights about her latest work, "Hazel and Mabel: Two Hearts Apart." Stoller explores the theme of friendship through letters, addressing how two inseparable friends navigate changes after a move. She discusses the creative journey behind the book, including her collaboration with illustrator Anita Bagdi and the unique challenges of writing for young audiences. Stoller also reflects on her background as a lawyer and her approach to finding inspiration for her stories.

Khaled A. Beydoun, an associate professor of law at Arizona State University, dives into critical themes from his latest work, exploring the global phenomenon of Islamophobia. He discusses its roots in Orientalism and the repercussions of the American War on Terror. Beydoun highlights real-life narratives, emphasizing their importance in understanding exile and ethnic cleansing, as illustrated through the Rohingya experience. He also examines contemporary issues like India's Citizenship Amendment Act and the escalated Islamophobia following recent global events.

Daniel Wyche, a Senior Scholar at the Columbia Center for Contemporary Critical Thought, dives into ethical self-transformation in his latest work. He explores Michel Foucault’s idea of 'care of the self' and how personal self-work intertwines with political action. Wyche draws connections between self-purification, activism, and community organization, emphasizing diverse conceptions of the self. He also discusses the implications of technology and the wisdom found in tradition, making a compelling case for the interconnectedness of personal and political realms.

In this episode, A. Mechele Dickerson, a law professor at the University of Texas and expert in bankruptcy and economic disparities, discusses her book on revitalizing the middle class. She reveals how policies since the 1980s have eroded worker stability and increased debt. Dickerson critiques current education and housing policies that hinder lower-income families, and highlights the detrimental effects of unpaid internships. She advocates for innovative ideas, like repurposing schools for community needs and transforming vacant buildings into affordable housing.

Gonzalo Lizarralde, a Professor and author specializing in disaster recovery and architecture, discusses his book, which critiques how human factors fuel disasters. He shares compelling stories of those affected by inequality and offers insights on why most rescue efforts fail. Lizarralde emphasizes the importance of grassroots leadership and local responses, particularly in Cuba. He argues that true sustainability requires listening and understanding community needs, moving beyond the jargon often used by powerful institutions.

Mark Christian Thompson, a scholar of African American literature and philosophy at Johns Hopkins University, dives into his book, exploring the evolution of Black thought from sociological to aesthetic frameworks. He discusses the significance of African American writers like Baldwin and Baraka, emphasizing language as a vital tool for community and identity. Thompson also examines critical figures like Malcolm X and Angela Davis, shedding light on their unique approaches to Black political thought and the interplay between theory and action in the quest for liberation.