Jennifer Egan, a Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist known for her experimental approach, delves into Lore Segal's poignant story, 'The Reverse Bug.' The conversation navigates identity, memory, and the immigrant experience, as characters confront complex moral dilemmas. Egan expertly highlights the intertwining of humor and deep emotional resonance in Segal's writing, showcasing the intricate layers of storytelling amid historical trauma. Together, they explore how past narratives influence current creative processes.

Allegra Goodman, an acclaimed author known for her National Book Award Finalist 'Kaaterskill Falls,' reads her poignant story 'Ambrose.' The narrative delves into themes of nostalgia and the historical experiences of women, beautifully intertwining culinary reflections with Thanksgiving. Goodman also explores the struggles of her character, sixth-grader Lily, who faces school anxieties and navigates her creative aspirations. The conversation highlights the importance of storytelling as a means of coping with challenges and discovering one's identity.

Hugo Hamilton, an acclaimed author and winner of the Rooney Prize for Irish Literature, reads his gripping story 'Autobahn.' The narrative begins with a hopeful hitchhiker's encounter that turns dark when a gun is revealed. Hamilton also delves into deep themes of identity and belonging through a tense encounter with a police officer in Germany. He poignantly explores the bond between a father and son through music, evoking both nostalgia and vulnerability. Listeners are invited to reflect on storytelling's power in uncertain times.

Bryan Washington reads his story “Last Coffeehouse on Travis,” from the September 16, 2024, issue of the magazine. A winner of the Ernest J. Gaines Award for Literary Excellence, the International Dylan Thomas Prize, and the Lambda Literary Award, Washington is the author of one story collection and two novels, “Memorial,” which came out in 2020, and “Family Meal,” which was published last year.Be among the first to see the 2024 National Book Awards longlists. Sign up for the magazine's Books and Fiction newsletter, where you’ll also receive early access to new short stories, plus essays and criticism. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Sigrid Nunez, an acclaimed author and National Book Award winner, reads her poignant story “Greensleeves.” The narrative captures a woman's emotional journey during a therapy session, exploring the struggle with destructive self-talk. It also delves into profound themes of mental health through a therapist's encounter at a social gathering and the complexities of familial love against the backdrop of mental illness. Nunez beautifully intertwines music and memory, revealing the deep cultural significance of 'Greensleeves' and its lasting impact.

Yiyun Li, acclaimed author of eight fiction books, reads her evocative story “The Particles of Order.” She invites listeners into Ursula's world as she prepares for a guest, blending kitchen reflections with memories of a cab driver. The narrative deepens as Li explores a poignant exchange between Lillian and a caretaker in the English countryside, illuminating themes of loss and solitude. Through their dialogue, they confront identity and the blurred lines between life and fiction, showcasing Li's masterful storytelling.

Akhil Sharma reads his story “The Narayans,” from the August 26, 2024, issue of the magazine. Sharma is the author of the story collection “A Life of Adventure and Delight,” and two novels, “An Obedient Father,” which was published in 2000 and republished, in a revised version, in 2022, and “Family Life,” for which he won the International Dublin Literary Award in 2016.  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Sam Lipsyte, an acclaimed author known for his insightful fiction, shares his short story "The Naturals." The narrative follows Caperton on a poignant plane ride as he confronts the emotional upheaval of his father's impending death. Lipsyte delves into family dynamics, particularly the strained relationships with his father and stepmother, blending humor with raw emotion. The story reflects on anxiety, memory, and the intricate bonds of grief, capturing the complexity of life’s intertwined narratives.

Caleb Crain, an author known for his insightful novels like 'Necessary Errors' and 'Overthrow,' reads his story 'Clay.' He beautifully captures how a traffic light transforms a small town, symbolizing change and community dynamics. Through Jane's reflections, Crain explores strained relationships and the comfort of routines. A late-night encounter with a possum leads to nostalgic memories tied to childhood. The narrative delves deep into trauma, healing, and the cathartic power of clay sculpting, merging personal growth with artistic expression.

Nell Freudenberger, an acclaimed author and 2010's '20 Under 40' Fiction honoree, reads her poignant story 'Attila.' The narrative delves into Martha's fragile family dynamics, centered around her mother's Alzheimer's, exposing the tension between duty and personal identity. As Martha navigates caregiving and reflections on past grievances, the emotional weight of love and loss comes to the fore, especially through her sorrow over her beloved rabbit, Attila. It's a powerful exploration of memory, vulnerability, and the complexities of family relationships.