Excerpt: 'From Square One: A Meditation, With Digressions, On Crosswords'
There is no other word for it. I get defensive when people dismiss the crossword as a mere pastime or, worse, a form of escapism. To my mind, they just don't get it.
Arts
'Wicked Plants' Creep Through Brooklyn Gardens
Wicked Plants is a new book documenting the sometimes deadly plant kingdom. Author Amy Stewart writes about illegal, dangerous and toxic species, including oleander and poison sumac. This summer, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden features some of these "evil" plants skulking among its lily ponds and greenhouses.
'Wicked Plants' Creep Through Brooklyn Gardens
Wicked Plants is a new book documenting the sometimes deadly plant kingdom. Author Amy Stewart writes about illegal, dangerous and toxic species, including oleander and poison sumac. This summer, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden features some of these "evil" plants skulking among its lily ponds and greenhouses.
Nominations: Best Beach Books Of All Time
NPR is drawing up a list of the best beach books ever, and we need you to help by nominating your favorite summer reads.
Excerpt: 'The Four Corners of the Sky'
Prepare to be enchanted by a masterful writer who knows how to tell a story. Michael Malone's skills derive partly from his work writing for a popular daytime soap and partly from his affection for good literature.
Excerpt: 'Laura Rider's Masterpiece'
Jane Hamilton's constantly entertaining novel centers around a Midwestern couple who become involved with a radio star.
Excerpt: 'The Housekeeper and the Professor'
Yoko Ogawa's poignant new story reminds us that the heart remembers what the mind forgets, and people can find order and solace in unexpected places.