NPR's Book of the Day
NPR
In need of a good read? Or just want to keep up with the books everyone's talking about? NPR's Book of the Day gives you today's very best writing in a snackable, skimmable, pocket-sized podcast. Whether you're looking to engage with the big questions of our times – or temporarily escape from them – we've got an author who will speak to you, all genres, mood and writing styles included. Catch today's great books in 15 minutes or less.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Dec 5, 2023 • 13min
In 'Oath and Honor,' Liz Cheney analyzes Trump's effect on the Republican party
Liz Cheney, former Wyoming representative, discusses her new book 'Oath and Honor' and reveals the Republican party's response to her criticism of Trump. She explores the dangers of Trump's efforts to overturn the 2020 election and the potential threats to democracy in 2024.
Dec 4, 2023 • 8min
Nathan Thrall's book revisits a tragic bus accident in Jerusalem
Author Nathan Thrall revisits a tragic bus accident in Jerusalem, exploring the emotional odyssey of Abed Salama, a father searching for his son. The book discusses the complex Israeli-Palestinian relationship, life under Israeli authority, and the neglect of accessible infrastructure in Palestinian areas. It highlights the importance of addressing underlying issues and sparking conversations.
Dec 2, 2023 • 10min
'The Queen of Dirt Island' captures the bond between women in an Irish family
Donal Ryan, author of The Queen of Dirt Island, discusses how he unintentionally centered the women characters in his novel, drawing inspiration from his rural Irish upbringing. He also talks about his writing process, the unique structure of the book with short chapters, and the influence of the concept of time on the vignettes in the story.
Dec 1, 2023 • 20min
Two National Book Awards finalists take on climate extremes
Hanna Pylväinen, author of The End of Drum-Time, discusses an 1850s community of native Sámi reindeer herders in the Scandinavian Arctic. Journalist John V talks about the 2016 wildfires in Fort McMurray, Canada. Topics include religion in diverse communities, the acceptance of death, the devastation of the wildfire, and the poetic nature of fire.
Nov 30, 2023 • 12min
How Indian migrant workers escaped human trafficking in Mississippi
A true story of Indian migrant workers who were promised green cards but instead faced forced labor in Mississippi. The podcast explores their fight for justice, the harsh conditions they endured, their march to D.C. for demands, and the power of community organizing. It also discusses the campaign against Signal International and the importance of forming connections to build social cohesion in America.
Nov 29, 2023 • 10min
Patricia Park's new YA novel captures the complexities of race and adolescence
Patricia Park discusses her new YA novel about a Korean-Argentinian teen navigating race and adolescence. Topics include imposter syndrome, microaggressions, allyship, and the challenges of cultural diversity at school.
Nov 28, 2023 • 9min
Stephen Buoro's comic novel follows a young Nigerian man's obsession with whiteness
Author Stephen Buoro discusses his comic novel, exploring a young Nigerian man's obsession with whiteness, his conflicts with identity, and the blending of dark postcolonial violence with light-hearted teenage issues like high school crushes.
Nov 27, 2023 • 10min
'Burn It Down' exposes discrimination and toxicity behind the scenes in Hollywood
Maureen Ryan, author of 'Burn It Down', discusses the discrimination and toxicity hidden behind the scenes in Hollywood. Topics include incidents of racism and sexism, mistreatment of marginalized groups, and the importance of addressing exploitation and toxic behavior. Ryan also reflects on their own experience and the impact of speaking out, while promoting support for trans youth.
Nov 25, 2023 • 10min
'Loot' traces the love, war and art that shaped India's colonial history
Author Tanya James shares her fascination with Tipu's Tiger, a wooden automaton challenging British colonialism. The podcast explores the desire to make an impact through writing and the unpredictability of the writing process. It also discusses the themes of theft and the importance of gratitude and thankfulness.
Nov 24, 2023 • 17min
Two graphic memoirs explore growing up as a minority in the U.S.
Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist Darrin Bell and artist Edel Rodriguez discuss their graphic memoirs, exploring topics like racism, Black parents speaking to their children about race and policing, the Mariel boatlift, and their personal experiences growing up as minorities in the U.S.
