New Books Network

Caitlin Wiesner, Assistant Professor of History at Mercy University, dives into her groundbreaking work on Black women's anti-rape activism. She explores the tension between feminist movements and policing, revealing how Black activists redirected state funds to community care. Wiesner highlights innovative strategies like the Chicago Sexual Assault Services Network and critiques of federal policies like VAWA, showing how these activists navigated violence to foster resilience. This rich conversation uncovers the profound impact of grassroots approaches to safety and justice.

Andrew Bernstein, a history professor at Lewis & Clark College and author of "Fuji: A Mountain In The Making," delves into the fascinating evolution of Mt. Fuji. He describes its violent volcanic origins and its transformation into Japan’s beloved national symbol. Bernstein discusses early human encounters, poetic references, and changing perceptions of this majestic mountain, revealing its journey from a feared deity to a pilgrimage site. He also touches on its ecological role, cultural significance, and the debates surrounding its World Heritage status.

Christopher Key Chapple, a renowned Hindu studies scholar and author, dives into the synergy between Yoga, Hindu philosophy, and environmental activism. He shares insights from ancient texts like the Vedas about earth-awareness and critiques modern issues like consumerism and climate change. Chapple recounts his impactful experiences in India, his meetings with eco-activists, and explores how Yoga practices can foster a deeper connection with nature. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the five elements through a yogic lens to combat environmental distress.

Dr. Sophia Kimmig, an ecologist and behavioral biologist, dives into the mysterious world of nocturnal wildlife. She shares fascinating insights from her research, including how creatures like foxes and owls adapt to life after dark. Discover the critical importance of nighttime habitats and the impact of light pollution on both wildlife and human health. Kimmig also debunks myths about opossums and reveals the evolutionary roots of nocturnality, all while inspiring a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the night.

In this discussion, historian Charlotte Macdonald shares insights from her work on British soldiers during the 19th century in New Zealand and the broader empire. She highlights the transformation of New Zealand post-1840 and the impact of military presence on local economies and society. Macdonald connects conflicts from the Indian Rebellion to unrest in Jamaica, illustrating how global events influenced colonial violence. She also examines the decline of the garrison system by 1870, touching on the legacies of land loss and changing Māori-Pākehā relations.

James A. Jacobs is a librarian emeritus with extensive experience in government documents, while James R. Jacobs is a government information librarian at Stanford and co-author of a pivotal book on preservation. They explore how historical practices shape modern digital preservation and discuss key differences between publications and archival records. The duo emphasizes the internet's disruption of traditional practices and advocates for a distributed preservation network. They also outline vital preservation guarantees and highlight grassroots efforts amid challenges in government information preservation.

Yael Leibowitz, an Israeli educator and Matan Kitvuni Fellow with a Master’s in Judaic Studies, delves into her commentary on Ezra-Nehemiah. She explores the historical backdrop of the exile and the emotional nuances of rebuilding the Second Temple. Leibowitz reveals intriguing parallels with Haggai and Zechariah, highlighting the importance of land and the unity of the Jewish people. Her insights challenge listeners to assess Jewish identity in a modern context while celebrating biblical literacy as central to community life.

René Esparza, a historian and assistant professor at Washington University in St. Louis, dives into the intersection of LGBTQ politics and the AIDS crisis in Midwestern America. He reveals how assimilationist strategies among white gay activists led to the gentrification of vibrant queer spaces, diluting radical activism. Esparza discusses the criminalization of marginalized groups during the AIDS epidemic and the contrasting dynamics of privacy and protection in political discourse. His insights shed light on urban change and envision a future beyond homonormativity.

Rob Holmes, an Associate Professor focused on nature-based infrastructure, and Brett Milligan, a Professor specializing in climate adaptation, explore the critical role of sediment in shaping America's coastlines. They discuss dredging's impact on ecology and recreation, highlighting a shift in viewing sediment as a resource rather than waste. The duo critiques conventional cost analyses and emphasizes dynamic design strategies that embrace sediment's role in adaptability. Their insights stress the importance of public engagement and the necessity for sustainable sediment practices.

Rachel Jean-Baptiste, a historian specializing in intimacy and race in the French-speaking Atlantic world, delves into the complexities of métis identities in colonial French Africa. She explores the persistence of interracial relationships despite colonial racial hardening and how métis children fought for recognition and rights. Jean-Baptiste highlights African mothers' advocacy, citizenship debates influenced by métis voices, and the evolving landscape post-World War II. Her work reveals the intricate dynamics of race, belonging, and legal claims within a colonial context.