New Books Network

Christine Shepardson, a Distinguished Professor in the Humanities at the University of Tennessee Knoxville, dives into her groundbreaking work on the miaphysite Christians of late antiquity. She reveals how these early Christians navigated state violence and crafted narratives of resilience and martyrdom. The conversation explores the role of monasteries in preserving theological identity, the Council of Chalcedon's impact on community dynamics, and the radicalization of faith amidst sociopolitical turmoil. Shedding light on a crucial chapter of Christian history, Shepardson illustrates the enduring legacy of Syriac Christianity.

Julien Mailland, Associate Professor of Media Management, dives into how legal frameworks have shaped the videogame industry since the 1970s. He discusses pivotal legal cases like Atari Pong and the role of intellectual property and freedom of speech. Mailland also highlights the impact of international law on gaming, including the ban of Wolfenstein 3D in Germany. As he explores the story of Tetris, he reveals the geopolitical intricacies that influenced its success and the legal battles that define today's gaming landscape.

Spike Bucklow, an author and former chemist known for his work on art and material culture, discusses his book, focusing on nature's annual cycle through the lens of the zodiac. He delves into how each season invites reflection and transformation, using winter as a time for introspection. Bucklow blends modern ecology with insights from historical figures, enhancing our connection to nature and time. A fascinating exploration of astrology reveals its relationship with environmental changes, enriching our understanding of life’s rhythms.

In this engaging discussion, Alex R. Tipei, a Professor at the University of Montreal, delves into the French liberals' creation of an informal empire in Southeast Europe post-Napoleon. Tipei introduces the concept of 'civilization-speak' and illustrates how it shaped national identities. She explores French educational reforms and their lasting impact on Greece and Romania, while unraveling the complex interplay between liberalism and nationalism. Expect intriguing insights into the transnational narratives that emerged from this unique historical intersection.

In this engaging conversation, Mallory Loehr, President of Random House Children's Books and author of numerous children’s tales, shares her decades of experience in the publishing world. She reflects on the joy and challenges of crafting stories for young readers. Mallory discusses the importance of names in shaping identity and dives into the journey of adapting classics like Alice in Wonderland for children. The conversation also highlights how literature can influence society and the vital collaboration between authors and editors in creating beloved stories.

Owen Rees, an ancient historian and lecturer, dives into life at the boundaries of ancient civilization. He challenges the notion of borders being merely barbaric, showcasing vibrant multicultural hubs through archaeological findings. Discover tales of an enterprising sex worker in Egypt and gambling soldiers at Hadrian’s Wall. Rees reveals how trade and cultural exchanges formed complex societies and redefines history by highlighting marginalized voices. His insights transform our understanding of how diverse communities thrived beyond the perceived edges of civilization.

The podcast dives into the unexpected charm of a G-rated David Lynch film, exploring how it navigates themes of aging, regret, and family without slipping into sentimentality. The hosts discuss the film's unique storytelling style, contrasting it with Lynch's more fragmented works. They analyze character depth through the performances of Richard Farnsworth and Sissy Spacek, bringing to light the emotional layers in their roles. Ultimately, the conversation reflects on life's complexities and the beauty found in simple moments.

Delve into the unique narrative blend of the Alien universe and Blade Runner, exploring the strengths and weaknesses of this creative approach. Discover the complex character of Morrow as they analyze themes of trauma and moral ambiguity in a survival context. The tension between creatures takes center stage with the eyeball monster's chilling encounter with a xenomorph. While reflecting on themes and audience engagement, the conversation also addresses disappointments in storytelling and pacing in the latest episodes, prompting critical thoughts on connection and ethics in a post-human narrative.

Mark Goble, a Professor of English at UC Berkeley and author of 'Downtime: The Twentieth Century in Slow Motion,' dives into the evolution of slow motion in film and literature. He discusses how this cinematic technique has transformed from niche to mainstream, shedding light on its cultural significance. The conversation also touches on how humor, such as dad jokes, enriches academic writing, and the importance of appreciating downtime in our hectic lives. Goble argues slow motion reflects deeper societal crises we navigate today.

Katherine Eva Maich, an assistant professor of sociology at Texas A&M University, dives into the world of domestic labor rights from her new book. She contrasts the experiences of domestic workers in New York City and Lima, Peru, revealing how deeply rooted gendered racialization impacts their rights. Maich discusses the limited legal protections in both regions and how the perception of the home as a private sphere complicates labor rights advocacy. The conversation also highlights the power of collective action and grassroots movements in challenging these injustices.