New Books Network

Hannah Nation, Managing Director of the Center for House Church Theology, discusses key writings from the Chinese house church movement. She shares insights on how unregistered churches in China navigate government oppression while maintaining their faith. The conversation explores Wang Yi's journey from human rights lawyer to imprisoned pastor, highlighting significant themes of spiritual resistance and civil disobedience. Nation emphasizes the importance of these voices for both local and global Christian communities, showcasing their unique theological contributions.

Kevin Guyan, a researcher and Chancellor's Fellow at the University of Edinburgh, dives deep into the complexities of LGBTQ inclusion in his latest book. He discusses how everyday classifications shape queer identities and the constraints they impose on marginalized communities. The conversation explores the superficiality of corporate inclusivity claims, the tensions in dating apps, the impact of representation in film, and future directions in queer studies. Guyan advocates for breaking free from restrictive labels to envision a more inclusive future.

John Bardes, a historian specializing in slavery and race, dives into the overlooked relationship between slavery and mass incarceration in New Orleans. He reveals that enslaved and free populations were incarcerated at alarming rates, contradicting common assumptions. Bardes discusses how slaveholders used prisons for control and profit, linking these practices to the legacy of racialized policing and vagrancy laws. He even highlights the forgotten histories that inform today’s issues with mass incarceration, advocating for a deeper understanding of these historical ties.

Alex Vernon, M.E. & Ima Graves Peace Distinguished Professor of English, brings a unique perspective as a former tank platoon leader and a literary scholar. He discusses Tim O'Brien's transformation from soldier to acclaimed author, emphasizing how his Vietnam experiences shaped his narrative style. The conversation explores O'Brien's intricate writing process and the complexities surrounding his legacy beyond war stories. Vernon also shares insights from numerous interviews and unseen materials, providing a compelling portrait of O'Brien's life and art.

Jon Savage, a distinguished British music critic and author known for works like 'England’s Dreaming', dives into the fascinating queer etymology of punk. He traces the origins of the term 'punk' from Shakespeare to its 1970s revival, revealing its deep connections to LGBTQ identity. Savage highlights the transformative contributions of artists like David Bowie and Little Richard, discussing how they reshaped gender perceptions in music. The conversation also touches on the cultural evolution of punk amidst societal challenges, providing a rich historical tapestry of rebellion and creativity.

Jesse Rifkin, a music historian and owner of Walk on the Wild Side Tours NYC, takes listeners through the gritty underbelly of 1970s New York's punk scene. Discover how iconic clubs like CBGB and the Mercer Arts Center shaped a cultural renaissance amid urban decay. Rifkin shares personal stories of transformation from musician to cultural guide, while illuminating the importance of community in music. He also highlights the influence of figures like Eric Emerson and the overlooked legacy of Jane County, showcasing the punk movement's complexity and vibrancy.

Jesse Browner, author of 'Sing to Me' and translator of French literary masterpieces, shares insights on the moral complexities faced by his protagonist, Hani, as he searches for his lost sister amidst the ruins of war. The conversation dives into the deep bond between Hani and his donkey, exploring how non-human companionship reflects broader emotional landscapes. Browner discusses the critical interplay of language and understanding in conflict, as well as the novel's poignant themes of empathy and lamentation, urging listeners to consider the human cost of war.

Didi Kuo, a Center Fellow at the Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies, discusses her book on the deteriorating state of political parties in democracies. She highlights how these institutions, once central to governance, have eroded trust and connection with citizens. Kuo explores the historical shifts in party dynamics, particularly in the U.S., and the implications of neoliberal policies on political engagement. She emphasizes the urgent need to strengthen parties to better represent diverse interests and restore faith in the democratic process.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Doina Anca Cretu, an Assistant Professor at the University of Warwick, shares her insights on foreign aid in interwar Romania. She reveals how American philanthropic organizations shaped state-building efforts, along with the political challenges Romanian leaders faced when accepting conditional aid. Dr. Cretu also highlights the role of elite women in philanthropy amid economic crises and offers valuable advice for aspiring academic authors on developing their unique analytical voices.

Richard K. Payne and Glen A. Hayes, both esteemed professors emeriti, dive deep into the rich field of Tantric studies. They reveal how Western portrayals have often been one-dimensional, focusing on sensationalist aspects of tantra. The conversation explores the evolution of Tantra as an academic discipline, the importance of cross-cultural collaboration, and the complexities of defining tantra across different traditions. They discuss how imagery and architecture play vital roles in Tantric practices and highlight contemporary interest in gender studies within this evolving landscape.