Former Journalist Sabaa Tahir Writes Dystopian Fantasies Inspired By The News
Tahir got the idea for her series An Ember in the Ashes in 2007, after she was asked to edit a haunting news story at The Washington Post.
Arts
Not My Job: Pitcher Bill 'Spaceman' Lee Gets Quizzed On Kevin Spacey
Lee played for the Boston Red Sox in the 1970s and the Montreal Expos in the early 1980s. Known for his outspoken nature and unconventional left-handed pitch, he ended up with the nickname "Spaceman."
We Got Your Letters: Listeners Puzzled By Tom Wolfe's Words On Evolution
NPR's Scott Simon's interview last week with author Tom Wolfe prompted an unusual number of responses from listeners regarding the author's questioning of some aspects of the theory of evolution.
Better Sit Down For This One: An Exciting Book About The History Of Chairs
OK, fine ... this new chair anthology might not keep you on the edge of your seat, but it does reveal some very interesting ideas about trends in design, culture and social values.
'A Gentleman In Moscow' Is A Grand Hotel Adventure
Amor Towles' new novel stars a Russian aristocrat, sentenced by the Soviets to permanent house arrest in a luxury hotel. It's a frothy romp that tends to overlook the reality of life under Stalin.
'The Curse Of Cash' Makes Case For A World Without Paper Money
NPR's Robert Siegel talks with Kenneth Rogoff about his latest book, The Curse of Cash, in which he argues advanced economies should slowly phase out most paper currency.
Ray Liotta On 'Goodfellas,' Acting And His Return To TV
"My career has been up and down, and I like it much better being up," Liotta says. He plays a corrupt NYC police lieutenant on the NBC series Shades of Blue. Originally broadcast Jan. 12, 2016.
Pop Culture Happy Hour: 'You're The Worst' And Making Drama Funny
The gang discusses a drama-filled FXX comedy as a jumping-off point for a look at the ways humor and seriousness can collide. Then, as always, we close with What's Making Us Happy this week.
!["I think I've read everything that was written about [Escobar]," Moura says, "but I did that in order to forget all that and then to create my own version of him."](http://wfdd-live.s3.amazonaws.com/images/story/Narcos-Actor-Wagner-Moura-On-Shedding-The-Weight-Of-Pablo-Escobar--492237169-1472827507.jpg)
'Narcos' Actor Wagner Moura On Shedding The Weight Of Pablo Escobar
The Brazilian actor gained 40 pounds for his role as the notorious drug kingpin. He says getting back in shape "wasn't only about losing weight, but getting rid of that character."
For Beverly "Guitar" Watkins The Music Speaks For Itself
The New River Blues Festival returns to Grassy Creek, North Carolina this Labor Day weekend.