New Books Network

Christopher Ali, an Associate Professor at the University of Virginia, discusses his book on rural broadband connectivity. He explores the significant urban-rural digital divide and argues for a cooperative model reminiscent of rural electrification. Ali offers insights into the failures of U.S. broadband policy, the higher costs rural residents face, and the need for local accountability. He shares a successful example from Rock County, Minnesota, and emphasizes the importance of democratizing broadband access, especially in light of COVID-19's impact on connectivity.

Michelle Christine Smith, an author specializing in rhetoric and gender, explores women’s roles in 19th-century intentional communities. She discusses the archival research behind Brook Farm, Harmony Society, and Oneida Community, revealing how they reshaped women's work amid industrialization. Smith argues that these utopian attempts weren't failures but rather setups for modern labor practices, including the birth control movement and the transformation of household roles. Her insights offer a fresh perspective on the intersection of gender, class, and race in historical labor dynamics.

Thomas Fleischman, an Assistant Professor of History at the University of Rochester and author of 'Communist Pigs,' dives into the peculiar role of pigs in East Germany's agricultural evolution. He discusses how the nation became a pork powerhouse while facing severe environmental crises. Through the lenses of industrial, garden, and wild boar pigs, Fleischman reveals the unintended consequences of factory farming and governmental oversight. He also connects past agricultural practices to current issues of food production and environmental sustainability.

Clint Smith, a staff writer for The Atlantic and poet, engages in a profound dialogue about memory and history in America, particularly regarding slavery. He shares insights from his book, exploring significant sites like Monticello and Angola Prison. Smith addresses the complexities of public memory, balancing truth with visitor comfort when discussing the legacy of slavery. He also highlights the importance of oral histories and the moral responsibilities of visitors, making for an enlightening and thought-provoking conversation.

Join Jorge Coronado, a Professor of Spanish and Portuguese at Northwestern University and author of 'Portraits in the Andes,' as he delves into the powerful intersection of photography and identity in the Andean region. He discusses how the Cuzco School of Photography helped reshape modernity, revealing complexities of indigeneity and representation. Coronado highlights the nuances in how Andeans adopted photographic practices, contrasts scientific and consumer perspectives, and examines the politics of image-making and ownership within rural and urban contexts.

Alfred S. Posamentier, a renowned mathematics educator and author, explores the intriguing lives of mathematicians in his book, showcasing their human stories alongside their groundbreaking work. He shares fascinating anecdotes, like Evariste Galois's short yet dramatic life, and discusses the histories behind concepts like probability and calculus. Posamentier emphasizes the contributions of often-overlooked figures, including women in mathematics, and highlights the importance of making mathematics accessible to all. Expect engaging insights into mathematical legends and their enduring legacies.

Karine Gagné, an anthropologist and author, dives into the intricate ethics of care between land, animals, and humans in Ladakh’s Himalayan communities. She discusses how climate change and militarization are reshaping these relationships. Gagné highlights the importance of elders' narratives for understanding environmental changes and the moral obligations tied to caring for their land and animals. She also reflects on the impact of modernity on traditional livelihoods and collective memory in the face of ongoing challenges.

Nerina Rustomji, an expert in Islamic cultural history, explores the intriguing concept of the Houri in her latest book. She discusses how post-9/11 media reshaped perceptions of the Houri, tracing its roots and controversial representations in Western literature. Rustomji analyzes competing models of female purity found in classics like 'Ivanhoe' and 'Jane Eyre.' She also dives into how modern digital narratives redefine these ideals, challenging traditional views on gender and spirituality. A captivating intersection of literature and socio-political discourse awaits!

Shoshana Walter, a Pulitzer-finalist reporter for The Marshall Project, reveals the untold truths behind the U.S. rehab industry in her new book, *Rehab: An American Scandal*. Walter delves into the flawed rehab system that often prioritizes profit over genuine recovery. She shares harrowing stories of individuals like April and Chris, highlighting systemic failures and the harsh realities of exploitative practices. Exploring the economic incentives tied to treatment, she calls for policy reform to emphasize longer, more supportive recovery options.

Yunxiang Gao, a history professor at Ryerson University, shares fascinating insights from her research on Black and Chinese connections in the 20th century. She uncovers the collaborative networks between African American icons like W. E. B. Du Bois and their Chinese counterparts, Liu Liangmo and Sylvia Si-lan Chen. Gao highlights the global impact of these relationships during significant historical moments. Additionally, she discusses how Chinese perceptions of Black intellectuals evolved over time, reflecting on the vital roles of influential spouses in shaping pro-China sentiments.