NPR's Book of the Day

Political thriller novel '2054' explores a future US facing civil war, misinformation, and AI. Authors discuss technology's impact on society, resilience of American institutions, and the inevitability of destruction in progress.

Retired journalists Marty Baron and Peter Breslow share their career reflections in memoirs. Baron discusses media in presidential elections, while Breslow recounts adventures in China and Afghanistan. Topics include journalism challenges, media integrity, and dangers faced by radio producers in hazardous environments.

Translators embark on a competitive search for missing author Irena Rey in a Polish forest. The challenges of language, culture, and identity in translation are explored. Translator rivalry and power dynamics unfold alongside conservation issues in the Bialowieza Forest. Parenthood's impact on manuscript completion is discussed, highlighting the themes of 'The Extinction of Irena Rey.'

The podcast discusses the mass emigration of Jewish refugees before WWI, focusing on three businessmen who facilitated it. It highlights the similarities between anti-immigrant rhetoric then and now, and the personal significance of this history for the author.

Maurice Vellekoop's graphic memoir delves into his coming out journey to his religious family, highlighting his cherished childhood memories with his mother and surprising support from his father. The episode explores personal relationships, struggles with sexuality, and artistic influences that shaped the visual style of the memoir.

Xochitl Gonzalez's novel explores the mysterious death of artist Anita de Monte, drawing inspiration from real-life artist Ana Mendieta. The podcast delves into themes of ego, power, and marriage in the art world, while discussing the complexities of artistic influence, personal identity, and success in relationships.

Tommy Orange discusses his new book 'Wandering Stars,' a sequel to 'There, There,' exploring Native American identity and historical narratives. He shares his inspiration from a museum visit in Sweden and the challenges of focusing on his protagonist's ancestors amidst intergenerational struggles and writing origins.

Journalist Kara Swisher reflects on Silicon Valley elites' lies, self-delusion, and industry harm in her memoir 'Burn Book'. Despite disillusionment, she remains optimistic about tech's future and AI impact. The podcast explores insights into tech personalities, power dynamics, and truth in the industry.

China's economic history is discussed in 'The Rise and Fall of the EAST', focusing on exams, autocracy, stability, and technology as major contributors. The declining property sector, lack of investment in people, and current political leadership raises concerns for China's future. The podcast delves into parallels with global economic trends, China's property sector influence on GDP growth, and the impact of historical examination system on society and governance.

Lucy Sante says it was a smartphone app that ultimately pushed her to come out to herself — and the world — as trans in her mid 60s. In her new memoir, I Heard Her Call My Name, the writer and professor chronicles how using the gender swap function on FaceApp ultimately opened a brand new life to her. And she tells NPR's Don Gonyea that though there are a lot of complexities to having that kind of realization later in life, there are also a lot of positive outcomes. To listen to Book of the Day sponsor-free and support NPR's book coverage, sign up for Book of the Day+ at plus.npr.org/bookoftheday See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.NPR Privacy Policy