New Books Network

Paulette F. C. Steeves, a Métis-Cree scholar and Associate Professor, dives deep into the rich Indigenous histories of the Americas. She challenges the outdated notion that people arrived only 12,000 years ago, presenting evidence of presence for over 60,000 years. Discussing the political ramifications of this history, Steeves emphasizes the importance of Indigenous perspectives in archaeology. She also weaves oral traditions and language into her research, arguing for reclaiming temporal sovereignty and redefining narratives around Indigenous identity.

Stefania Marghitu, a media and television studies scholar, dives into the intriguing landscape of teen television in her book, Teen TV. She explores the evolution of teen audiences from Baby Boomers to Gen Z, analyzing how cultural contexts shape youth media. The discussion touches on the impact of shows like 90210 and Reality Bites, the complexities around sexuality representation, and the nostalgic allure of appointment viewing. Marghitu also emphasizes the importance of regional specificity and anticipates a future of thoughtful teen narratives that resonate with today's youth.

Marc Sommers, an academic and former consultant, dives deep into the cultural influences during the Sierra Leone conflict. He reveals how icons like Bob Marley, Tupac Shakur, and Rambo inspired youth caught in cycles of war and terror. Sommers discusses the exploitation of young people through child soldiers and the role of drugs in warfare. He connects global patterns of alienation to local identities, exploring the lasting impact of pop culture on society. The talk underscores the urgent need for better governance to address these challenges.

Patricia Ann Simpson, a scholar of German studies, explores the pivotal roles of early modern women in her new book. She challenges the traditional narratives around women's work by highlighting their contributions to public and intellectual spheres. The discussion delves into themes like educational privilege, emotional labor, and the creation of community spaces against patriarchal constraints. Simpson also profiles notable figures such as Anna Köfelin and Maria Sibylla Merian, emphasizing their innovative responses to personal and cultural challenges.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Benjamin Balthaser, an associate professor specializing in radical U.S. literature, explores the surge in American Jewish activism for Palestinian liberation. He traces roots of anti-Zionism back to the 1930s, highlighting the legacy of Jewish radicals and their critiques of nationalism and imperialism. Balthaser emphasizes the importance of Jewish solidarity with Black activists during the Civil Rights era and discusses how contemporary movements can learn from historical struggles to encourage new coalition building.

Nancy McWilliams, a renowned clinical psychologist and psychoanalytic author, shares insights from her extensive experience in therapist supervision. She highlights how supervision can significantly influence a therapist's growth and confidence. McWilliams emphasizes the need for safety in the supervisory relationship and discusses the balance between teaching and treating. She candidly addresses challenges like supervising therapists dealing with suicidal patients and ethical dilemmas. Her reflections offer a thoughtful approach to optimizing the supervisory experience.

Dr. Michael McCulloch, an architecture professor and urban history expert, delves into the journey of early 20th-century Detroit's workers seeking modern homes. He discusses the interplay between migration, Americanization, and housing norms that shaped a new social contract. McCulloch highlights the impact of racial segregation on housing access for Black workers and how their aspirations were thwarted by economic downturns. He also shares his insights on the roles of employers and the housing market in this transformative era.

Amanda Parrish Morgan, author and academic, shares insights from her book *Stroller*, which delves into the cultural significance of strollers in contemporary motherhood. She discusses how strollers serve as status symbols and reflect parenting philosophies. The conversation touches on the tension between independence and attachment, the impact of social media on parenting styles, and the differences between American and European parenting supports. Amanda challenges stereotypes, exploring how strollers foster creativity and autonomy while highlighting the societal pressures on mothers.

Jean-Thomas Tremblay, an Assistant Professor of Environmental Humanities at York University, dives into his thought-provoking book, Breathing Aesthetics. He discusses how breathing connects large-scale politics to personal experiences, scrutinizing the crisis of polluted and commodified air since the 1970s. Tremblay critiques therapeutic breathing trends, proposing that art can serve as a resistance to respiratory hazards. He highlights works by artists like Ana Mendieta and Renee Gladman, envisioning breathing as a cultural and environmental survival strategy.

In a captivating discussion, Patrick Gamsby, a scholarly communications librarian and author, delves into the eclectic thought of Henri Lefebvre. He explores Lefebvre's concept of metaphilosophy, emphasizing the relationship between thought and action. Gamsby highlights Lefebvre's critique of alienation and its impact on modernity, linking it to the pursuit of happiness in an age dominated by technology. He also addresses the dangers of enforced positivity and the quest for revolutionary romanticism as a path toward collective joy and self-management.