NPR's Book of the Day

Kerry Washington reveals a family secret in her memoir, discussing the impact on her relationship with her parents. She reflects on her personal journey and finding healing through writing. Washington opens up about feelings of shame and her search for the sperm donor's identity while exploring the healing power of embracing truth.

Walter Isaacson and Michael Lewis discuss the challenges of writing biographies of Elon Musk and Sam Bankman-Fried, addressing criticisms and the emotions involved. They explore the similarities between the two subjects and the importance of presenting an honest portrayal for readers to form their own judgments.

Jesmyn Ward, National Book Award winner, discusses her novel 'Let Us Descend' which explores the spirituality of an enslaved Black woman named Annis. Ward explains why she incorporated spirituality into Annis' harrowing journey and highlights the act of memory and resistance in reading about slavery.

Raul Palma, author of A Haunting in Hialeah Gardens, discusses the protagonist's skepticism as a babaláwo and his deal with a debt collector to cleanse spirits. The podcast explores the concept of debt, both financial and personal, and its impact on trauma. It also delves into the protagonist's belief in his late wife's spirit and the meaning of debt in shaping his life. The Miami-based novel is a captivating exploration of haunting and the city's hidden history and politics.

Explore Abraham Lincoln's ability to work with others through his strategic positioning on issues like slavery and democracy. Learn about his relationships with Stephen A. Douglas and William H. Seward, and his use of compromise during the Civil War.

Tech entrepreneur Mustafa Suleyman discusses the need for AI regulation. New Yorker cartoonist Amy Kurzweil talks about using AI to connect with her late grandfather in her graphic memoir 'Artificial: A Love Story'.

Yomi Adegoke, author of The List, discusses the impact of allegations on a power couple's relationship. The novel fictionalizes a controversial list of men accused of sexual misconduct. It explores questions of ethics, self-empowerment, and the challenges faced by a dark-skinned black couple.

A novel set in 1920s Penang explores romance, secrecy, and colonialism. The author discusses using W. Somerset Maugham as the protagonist and the themes of imperialism. The podcast delves into the historical and cultural aspects of Penang, including its rich history, forgotten stories, and the characterization and reactions in the novel. It also explores the beliefs of British people during the colonial era and how their superiority was challenged in a murder case.

Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter Ian Johnson discusses China's grassroots historians who challenge the Communist Party's control over history. He explores the advancements in technology that have empowered journalists, filmmakers, and artists to correct China's collective memory. The podcast also highlights the importance of personal relationships and international interactions for grassroots historians, as well as the existence of individuals challenging the notion of no free thought in China.

Jhumpa Lahiri, author of 'Roman Stories', explores themes of identity and belonging in her new book. She discusses the influence of Alberto Moravia, the significance of names in writing, and the deep connection to Rome as home and identity.