Understanding Society Through 3 American Classics
NPR's Rachel Martin speaks with Azar Nafisi about her new book, The Republic of Imagination, a reflection on America through three of its most memorable books.
Author Interviews
Back Across The Wall: Questions For Garth Nix
Author Garth Nix returns to the world of the Old Kingdom with Clariel, the story of a young woman of great magical power who, denied the freedom to live as she wants, chooses a dangerous path.
A Funny Philosopher Tackles A Tough Query: 'Does Santa Exist?'
Eric Kaplan's son had a zoo trip canceled because one mom worried about reindeer-induced questions. So Kaplan, a comedy writer and philosophy grad student, started pondering the puzzle of St. Nick.
424 Steps To Happiness: A Father's Journey Beyond 'The Fall'
A son with cerebral palsy inspires a new way to think about imperfection, exaltation and love in a new memoir by Brazilian novelist and screenwriter Diogo Mainardi.
Astronaut Chris Hadfield Brings Lessons From Space Down To Earth
The former International Space Station commander achieved Internet stardom with his in-space rendition of David Bowie's "Space Oddity." His new book is An Astronaut's Guide to Life on Earth.
The Jacket Designer's Challenge: To Capture A Book By Its Cover
Peter Mendelsund has designed hundreds of book covers, including two new ones of his own: Cover and What We See When We Read. He talks about his process and why "dead authors get the best" covers.
'How To Cook Everything Fast'? Bittman Says Skip The Prep
Rachel Martin talks to food writer Mark Bittman about his new cookbook, "How to Cook Everything Fast," which thumbs its nose at the French tradition of having ingredients prepped before you cook.
Journalist Talks Confidential Sources, Getting Subpoenaed And His New Book
James Risen could face prison for refusing to reveal his source for a story about a botched CIA operation intended to sabotage Iran's nuclear weapons program. His new book is Pay Any Price.
What's It Like To Be Neil Patrick Harris? He Gives You Options
The actor says he's been able to do a lot of different things in his life, including his role as Doogie Howser. So when he sat down to write a memoir, he made it a "Choose Your Own Adventure."
In This 'Alphabet,' 'O' Is For Helpful Owl And 'C' Is For Escapist Cup
From a cup who dreams of a window seat to a problem-solving owl, Oliver Jeffers' new picture book, Once Upon an Alphabet, gives each letter its own story.