Ruth Rendell Dies, Pioneered The Psychological Thriller
The British mystery writer was known for her Inspector Wexford series and in her later years became active in Labour Party politics. NPR's Petra Mayer has this remembrance.
Books
With Comedic Touch, 'Zombie Wars' Tackles Impact Of Real Violence
The main character in Aleksandar Hemon's new book is a hapless screenwriter who's never faced real hardship. But after an affair with a Bosnian refugee, he can no longer avoid the realities of war.
Demystifying The Art World In 'Playing To The Gallery'
Have you ever stared at a piece of art and thought, I just don't get it? Artist Grayson Perry gives NPR's Rachel Martin the answers to questions about art that some are too embarrassed to ask.
'I Take You' Is Madcap Marital Mayhem
Eliza Kennedy's snappy new novel follows Lily Wilder, a high-powered litigator conflicted about her upcoming wedding because she's having too much fun with sex, booze and work to settle down.
Silence On The Sidelines: An MLB Insider's 'Manifesto' On Youth Sports
Baseball's Mike Matheny speaks with Fresh Air's Dave Davies about his playing career, managing in the big leagues and the pressures of youth sports. Matheny is the author of The Matheny Manifesto.
A Town Divided Over The Next Chapter Of An Iconic Harper Lee Book
There's plenty of speculation about whether the octogenarian author really intended to release the manuscript, discovered by her lawyer last year.
Book Review: Rachel Kushner, 'The Strange Case Of Rachel K'
NPR's Alan Cheuse reviews author Rachel Kushner's collection of short stories, The Strange Case of Rachel K.
From Horses To High-Rises: An Insider 'Unmasks' China's Economic Rise
Over the past 25 years, former U.S. Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson watched China turn into the world's second largest economy. He explains what could halt the country's massive growth.
An Ohio Couple Would Like To Forget 'A Gronking To Remember'
A lawsuit alleges that the popular erotica e-book — which centers on Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski — used an engagement photo on its cover without permission.
John Lydon: The Foul-Mouthed Yob Sets The Record Straight
"After reading so much rubbish written about me over the years, it became obvious that I had to just tell it like it is," Lydon tells NPR's Arun Rath. Lydon just wrote his memoir, Anger Is An Energy.