NPR Bestsellers: Paperback Fiction, Week Of September 25, 2014
Jo Nesbo's 2013 thriller, The Redeemer, has maverick detective Harry Hole searching the darkest corners of the former Yugoslavia. It appears at No. 14.
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NPR Bestsellers: Paperback Nonfiction, Week Of September 25, 2014
Comedian Billy Crystal reflects on his life and career in Still Foolin' Em, which appears at No. 13.
Margaret Atwood's 'Stone Mattress' Is Full Of Sharp And Jabbing Truths
In her latest collection, Margaret Atwood takes on death, dreadfulness and the use of fantasy. Though these stories are strange and wild, they all somehow ring true.
Pop Culture Happy Hour: Fall Books And Great Detectives
On this week's show, we dive into some of the fall books we're looking forward to and revel in a chat about detective stories.
Book News: A Prize In Memory Of Peace Picks Its Winners
The Dayton Literary Peace Prize, honoring writers who use literature to further social justice, has recognized Bob Shacochis and Karima Bennoune. Also: Sub Pop has published some grunge-worthy haiku.
Remembering The 'Short And Tragic Life Of Robert Peace'
Robert Peace, a 30-year-old African-American, was a Yale University graduate and an almost straight-A student in molecular biophysics and biochemistry. He also dealt marijuana.
Book News: Amtrak Unveils Writers Picked For A Residency On The Rails
The 24 writers chosen will set out on long-distance train rides — and write along the way. Also: Neil Gaiman tells a tale about Terry Pratchett, who isn't quite the kindly elf you might think he is.
'Clockwork Dagger' Is A Thought-Provoking Steampunk Adventure
Beth Cato's debut novel takes on the problems and limitations of the steampunk genre with an appealing heroine and a thoughtful meditation on what heroism really means. Plus, mechanical animals!
Too Graphic? 2014 Banned Books Week Celebrates Challenged Comics
Captain Underpants has once again topped the list of most-challenged books. Author Dav Pilkey says his tighty-whities-clad hero teaches kids a healthy lesson about questioning authority.
A Historic Backdrop Frames Forbidden Love In 'The Paying Guests'
Sarah Waters' latest novel, set in 1920s London, examines the moral consequences of passion. Though slightly too long, this book brings the past to life with exquisite clarity.