New Books Network

Naomi Baker, a Senior Lecturer in English Literature at the University of Manchester, shares her insights on the radical Protestant women of the 17th century. She highlights remarkable figures like Rose Thurgood, who battled starvation and faith, and Anna Trapnel, known for her prophetic trances. Baker delves into how these women challenged social norms and religious authority, intertwining their activism with theology. Their voices helped shape the earliest autobiographical accounts in English, inspiring future generations to question hierarchy and pursue justice.

In this engaging conversation, artist and theorist Mattin discusses his groundbreaking project, Social Dissonance. He explores how alienation shapes our identity under capitalism and shifts from noise music to social experiments. Delving into historical theories, he critiques individualism and highlights the power of collective discomfort. Mattin's performance invites audiences to participate actively, reflecting on their shared unease as a political resource. His vision for a post-awareness community emphasizes solidarity in the face of social dissonance.

In this discussion, Marcus Chown, a former radio astronomer and science writer, delves into black holes, their evolution from fringe theories to cosmic rulers. He recounts the historical journey of black hole discovery, including the pivotal moment when the first black hole was identified. Chown makes complex concepts accessible, explaining the significance of gravitational waves and supermassive black holes in galaxies. He also explores fundamental mysteries, such as Hawking radiation and the links between black holes and quantum gravity, building an exciting narrative around these cosmic enigmas.

In this engaging discussion, Marcus Chown, a former radio astronomer and science writer, delves into the mysterious world of black holes. He explores their historical significance, tracing how they evolved from being dismissed by Einstein to central players in cosmic understanding. Chown shares insights from interviews with key researchers and explains concepts like gravitational waves and Hawking radiation. He also touches on the intriguing relationship between supermassive black holes and galaxy formation, leaving listeners with a sense of wonder about the universe's mysteries.

Julie Fette, an Associate Professor of French Studies at Rice University, delves into contemporary gender representations in French children's literature. She discusses the complexities of France's publishing landscape, highlighting the influence of state support and market forces. Fette reveals that 80% of children's books feature pervasive gender stereotyping and examines the role of libraries and book clubs as gatekeepers. She argues for a shift towards more egalitarian literature amid current challenges, while also hinting at her future research on diversity and migration.

Join anthropologist Patrick Eisenlohr and musicologist Birgit Abels as they delve into their groundbreaking work on atmospheric knowledge. They explore how atmospheres affect our understanding of the world through somatic, nonverbal cues. Discover the role of sound in creating a sense of belonging in various cultures, from Mauritian Nath recitation to Palauan ocean stewardship. The conversation spans sonic multimodality, urban sonic practices, and the deep connections between atmosphere and identity, revealing how our environments shape the way we know and interact with the world.

J. Stephen Yuille, a notable Professor of Church History and Spiritual Formation, discusses his new five-volume collection of John Cotton’s works. He highlights Cotton’s pivotal role in shaping Puritan thought in both England and America. Yuille delves into significant topics like the Antinomian Controversy, Cotton's debates on religious liberty, and his ideas on Congregational church governance. He also explores Cotton's apocalyptic views, revealing insights into early American religious life and the enduring relevance of Puritan theology.

In this engaging conversation, Dennis Lloyd, Director of the University of Wisconsin Press and president of the Association of University Presses, shares insights from his 32-year career in publishing. He discusses the collaborative theme of University Press Week, highlighting unique projects and the critical role of partnerships. Dennis also reflects on market shifts, the impact of open access, and the role of AI in publishing. With advice for aspiring authors and insights into the community spirit among presses, this talk is both enlightening and inspiring!

Julien Chung, an award-winning illustrator from Montreal, discusses his captivating new picture book, You Can't Tame a Tiger, and shares insights from his diverse career in illustration and graphic design. He reveals his creative journey, explaining how he transitioned to children's books after age 50. Julien shares his love for visual storytelling, highlighting the importance of 'wow' moments and the collaborative nature of illustration. He also provides advice for aspiring artists, emphasizing the value of community and mentorship in the creative industry.

Dr. Marion Orr, a political scientist and professor at Brown University, dives into the fascinating life of Charles C. Diggs Jr., Michigan’s first Black Congressman and a key player in the civil rights movement. Orr discusses Diggs's strategic moderation in politics, his work with Martin Luther King Jr., and his legislative achievements like restoring home rule to DC. He highlights Diggs’s lesser-known contributions to the anti-apartheid movement and the founding of the Congressional Black Caucus, revealing how his groundbreaking career has often been overlooked.