“As Far As the Heart Can See: Stories to Illuminate the Soul” by Mark Nepo
October 24, 2011 · Poet and philosopher Mark Nepo talks with host Dan Skinner about his latest book, a follow-up to his bestselling “The Book of Awakening.” Nepo believes stories have the power to enrich our lives when we take time to meditate on them and discuss their meaning with others.
This latest book contains forty-five stories and three forms of an invitation to further conversations: journal questions, table questions, and meditations. These stories and parables, which are about universal concepts and themes, are offered with a poet’s sensuality and a philosopher’s sensibility.
Each one is an invitation to awaken an aspect of living in relationship with the sacred.
“The Pirate Handbook: A Rogue's Guide to Pillage, Plunder, Chaos and Conquest” by Pat Croce
October 24, 2011 · Pirate historian and explorer Pat Croce talks with host Dan Skinner about his latest pirate themed book. Croce became fascinated with pirates at an early age when he saw the film “Captain Blood” starring Errol Flynn.
The book is written in the first person, as if an experienced pirate is taking a new recruit under his wings and teaching him the ropes. Readers will learn about pirate codes of conduct and practical pirate skills such as making grog and defending against a dagger attack.
In addition to being an author, he also operates the St. Augustine Pirate and Treasure Museum in Florida, where one of the only two known “Jolly Roger” flags in existence is on display. Croce’s previous books include “Pirate Soul,” “Blackbeard,” and “Pirates of St. Augustine.”
He is also the former owner of the Philadelphia 76’ers.
More information about is available at patcroce.com.
"Childhood Under Siege: How Big Business Targets Children” by Joel Bakan
October 24, 2011 · Joel Bakan talks with host Dan Skinner about how marketers target children with increasingly devious methods to manipulate their vulnerable emotions, cultivate compulsive behavior, and addle their psyches with violence, sex, and obsessive consumerism.
He says that society is failing to protect our children against unsafe products and illegal marketing tactics. He offers advice on what we can do to protect our children. Joel Bakan is a professor of law at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver.
His book, “The Corporation,” was an international best seller.
"The Boy Who Loved Batman: A Memoir" by Michael Uslan
October 17, 2011 · Michael Uslan talks with host Dan Skinner about the power of staying true to your dreams. During the course of the interview, Uslan relates how he identified with the Batman character.
He shaped his career so that one day he would be in a position to bring Batman to the screen. His adventures along the way included teaching a class on comics at Indiana University and writing Batman comics. After purchasing the rights to make the film, he spent a decade of trying to sell the idea to Hollywood; the idea was rejected again and again. The film project was finally given the green light, and the rest is history. The Batman series of films have become one of the most successful in the movie industry.
October 17, 2011 · Journalist Edward Girardet talks with host Dan Skinner about how you have to be willing to listen and drink a lot of tea to understand the culture of Afghanistan. He says a lack of understanding about the culture has limited the success of military efforts in the region.
The book sheds light on the people and the culture as he relates his experiences reporting on the battle of Kabul and the rise of the Taliban. In spite of all the country has endured, Girardet remains an optimist and still has hopes for peace in Afghanistan.
Edward Girardet is a journalist, writer and producer who has reported widely from humanitarian and conflict zones in Africa, Asia and elsewhere since the late 1970s.
October 17, 2011 · David Stokes talks with host Dan Skinner about a murder trial that captured the attention of the nation in the 1920s.
In Fort Worth, Texas Reverend Norris was a rising fundamentalist leader who presided over the First Baptist Church, one of the largest churches in America. Today, we would describe it as a “mega-church.” He was poised to be a national religious leader until he shot and killed an unarmed man.
Stokes, himself a minister, says Norris represents a cautionary tale of what can potentially happen when religion, politics and a desire for power comingle. He believes this incident from the 1920’s teaches an important lesson for today.
October 10, 2011 · Novelist Helen Schulman talks with host Dan Skinner about “This Beautiful Life.” The book is a cautionary tale about the dangers of our interconnected world. It revolves around a family crises created when an explicit video from a minor female classmate is sent to their teenaged son, and the video ends up going viral on the internet.
Schulman says the issues facing today’s teens are not new, but the speed at which teenage indiscretions can travel around the world via the internet can create much more serious consequences. She discusses why it is important for teens, and adults for that matter, to understand how to protect their privacy and publish things “on the net” that may live there forever.
The book was written with an adult audience in mind, but Schulman says people have written her to say that they have used the book as a way to address the issues of internet use with their teens.
“Alone and Invisible No More: How Grassroots Community Action and 21st Century Technology Can Empower Elders to Stay in Their Homes and Lead Healthier, Happier Lives” by Allan S. Teel, M.D.
October 10, 2011 · Dr. Teel talks with host Dan Skinner about how communities can help care for elders. We want our elders to be safe, and we worry about them falling. Yet, placing them in an assisted living or a nursing home can be demoralizing and expensive.
Many elders would rather embrace the “dignity of risk” and stay at home where they are happiest for as long as possible. Dr. Teel says the first step is for society to stop treating elders as a problem and consider them more as an asset. He describes ways in which communities can care for elders in cost effective ways. The book is designed as a how-to book to give people the knowledge they need and a call to action to replicate the program he has successfully managed.
October 10, 2011 · The book is targeted to children age 8 to 14, but adults are also finding the book interesting. The book is packed with information about topics kids love to explore, plus topics helpful for school including the presidents, an atlas, and new scientific discoveries. The book contains hundreds of photographs and links to additional sources. Features include “Going Green,” “Amazing Animals,” “Wonders of Nature,” “Geography Rocks,” and “History Happens.”
Feresten describes the research that goes into the annual publication, including verification of interesting facts such as that all of the gold mined in the world would fit in an Olympic-size pool.
More information about the book and additional educational activities for kids can be found at kids.nationalgeographic.com
“The Wealth Cure: Putting Money in Its Place” by Hill Harper
October 3, 2011 · Hill Harper graduated with a law degree from Harvard with honors. He could have continued down that path, but his heart wasn’t in it. Deciding to follow his passion, he took a job waiting tables while he pursued acting and writing.
He is now a best selling author and a successful actor. Hill was working on a book about money when he was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. That experience caused him to reflect on what is truly important in life, and it redefined the concept of wealth for him.
The resulting book is filled with practical advice and thoughts about our relationship to money. He recommends people invest in themselves first and learn the difference between smart money and dumb money. Money should be a tool and not the end goal. As a relative once told him, money can be an important factor in a decision, but if it is the only factor, you’ll make the wrong decision. Life is not just about our bank account, it’s also about building a life account.
Hill Harper is an author of several books including “The Conversation,” “Letters to a Young Brother,” and “Letters to a Young Sister.” As an actor he has appeared in numerous television series and feature films. He is currently starring in "CSI: NY." You can follow Hill Harper on Twitter @hillharper.
“Sex at Dawn: Why We Mate, Why We Stray, and What it Means for Modern Relationships” by Christopher Ryan
October 3, 2011 · Christopher Ryan talks with host Dan Skinner about his research into the prehistoric origins of modern sexuality. The book was co-authored with his wife, Cacilda Jetha. Contrary to past theories, Ryan and Jetha maintain that monogamy doesn’t come naturally to our species.
The book weaves together evidence from anthropology, archeology, primatology, anatomy and psychosexuality to demonstrate way humans stray from fidelity.The authors are not suggesting people should not be monogamous, but rather that people should recognize that being monogamous is a conscious choice and not part of our nature.
Ryan also discusses how sexual attraction brings people together but doesn’t keep them together. This explains why passion fades in long term relationships even as love deepens.
More information about is available at sexatdawn.com.
October 3, 2011 · Amor Towles talks with host Dan Skinner about his debut novel, “Rules of Civility.” The book is set in New York in 1938. The main character, Katey Kontent is a 25-year-old woman working as a secretary. Her chance meeting with a handsome banker leads to a chain of events that propels her into the social and business world of the New York elite as the depression comes to an end.
Although set in a specific time period, the lessons learned by Katey are timeless, and she discovers how spur-of-the-moment decisions can define life for decades to come.
Towles discusses his process of writing, and the challenges of writing a novel after primarily creating short stories.
“The Emperor of All Maladies: A Biography of Cancer” by Siddhartha Mukherjee
September 26, 2011 · Dr. Siddhartha Mukherjee didn’t intend to write a book. A patient told him that she was willing to continue with her cancer treatment, if she could learn more about the disease. So, he started researching the history of cancer and eventually had enough material to create what turned out to be a Pulitzer Prize winning book. The book is now available in paperback.
Dr. Mukherjee talks with host Dan Skinner about the first known references to cancer and how the disease got its name. He relates how chemotherapy treatments for cancer grew out of discoveries made during autopsies of victims of Mustard Gas bombs in World War I. He is optimistic that we will continue to learn more about cancer and its vulnerabilities to create more effective treatments in the future.
“Hamlet’s Blackberry: Building a Good Life in a Digital Age” by William Powers
September 26, 2011 · William Powers says that throughout history, new technology has created disruption. It takes time for people and cultures to adapt to change and find the proper place for new technology in their lives.
Powers looks back at changes brought by the invention of the printing press, telegraphs and railroads that brought people together but also created the need for a “zone of disconnectedness.” How can we take advantage of today’s electronic connectivity and still find the time for interacting face to face? How can we not be consumed by the technology so we still have space for solitude and reflection? Powers offers some helpful strategies for finding balance in the digital age.
“Stealing Rembrandts: The Untold Story of Notorious Art Heists” by Tom Mashberg
September 26, 2011 · Journalist Tom Mashberg and museum security expert Anthony Amore share their research into a still unsolved $500 million robbery at Boston’s Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.
To provide background for the investigation the duo has researched the history of past Rembrandt thefts around the world. They learned that the robberies are frequently carried out by local criminals who snatch art by Rembrandts because it is a name they recognize. However, they soon learn that they can’t find a buyer, because the artist is too well known. Sometimes thieves end up leaving the art in some public place and call in an anonymous tip for police to recover it, while other stolen works remain missing.
“Healing Your Hungry Heart: Recovering from Your Eating Disorder” by Joanna Poppink
September 19, 2011 · Psychotherapist Joanna Poppink talks with about “Healing Your Hungry Heart: Recovering from Your Eating Disorder.” Poppink discusses her step-by-step approach to overcome triggers to emotional eating and self-criticism.
Many people think that eating disorders are primarily a young person’s disease. However, the emotional problems that created the dysfunctional coping behavior don’t magically disappear as people age. In fact, the stresses of adult living can make the problem worse. Poppink discusses the role that the media and popular culture play in setting up unrealistic expectations and creating body image anxiety.
The book is specifically designed to help adults with eating disorders. More information about is available at eatingdisorderrecovery.com.
September 19, 2011 · Novelist John Shors talks with Dan Skinner about “The Wishing Trees,” the story of a father and daughter who embark on a life-changing journey.
Shortly after the death of his wife, Kate, Ian discovers a letter from her asking him to take their daughter Mattie on a trip they had planned to Asia. To honor her dying wish, father and daughter travel through Japan, Nepal, India, Thailand, Hong Kong, Vietnam and Egypt where they revisit places that Ian and Kate had seen when they were dating. In the last days of her life, Kate wrote messages for Ian and Mattie to read during their trip.
Drawing from first-hand visits to all of the sites in the novel, John Shors has created a moving novel that will appeal to world travelers and those who want to learn more about Asia and its people.
“Crashes, Crises, and Calamities: How We Can Use Science to Read the Early Warning Signs” by Len Fisher
September 12, 2011 · Recent advances in computer modeling have made it possible for scientists to better predict potential disasters. Len Fisher talks with host Dan Skinner about how the basic principles can be applied to our everyday lives.
Increasing incidents of extremes, both good and bad, can be an indicator of an impending disaster. Also, when a person or system is not able to adjust to changes, it is an indication of larger problems ahead. For example, when his wife pointed out that he was becoming tired easily, and things were bothering him more, it turned out that they were early warning signs of heart trouble. Another example would be a personal relationship that has increasing extremes of good times and bad times.It could mean the relationship is about to end. He notes that the outcome of complex human behaviors is easier to predict than simple acts of nature because a complex situation offers more indicators than a simple event.
Len Fisher is the author of several books whose articles have also appeared in the “Washington Post,” “Newsweek” and “Scientific American.”
“The Order of Days: The Maya World and the Truth about 2012” by David Stuart
September 12, 2011 · One of the world’s foremost experts on Maya culture, archeologist David Stuart talks with host Dan Skinner about the hype around the Mayan calendar. Stuart says the calendar does end a cycle of time at the end of 2012, but people should not try to give that special meaning. He says the Mayans were not trying to predict the end of the world. Although part of the book is dedicated to debunking what Stuart describes as “the nonsense” surrounding the calendar, most of the book is dedicated to sharing new discoveries and providing insight into ancient Mayan culture, their religion and concept of time.
David Stuart is a Mayanist scholar and professor of Mesoamerican art and writing at the University of Texas at Austin. He started deciphering Mayan hieroglyphs when he was eight-years-old and was the youngest-ever recipient of the MacArthur Fellowship “genius grant.”
“The Lost Soul of Higher Education: Corporatization, the Assault on Academic Freedom, and the End of the American University” by Ellen Schrecker
September 5, 2011 · Ellen Schrecker talks with host Dan Skinner about the state of American universities. Her book examines how academic freedom is under attack from well-funded pressure groups whose purpose is to fight perceived liberalism on campus; and the encroachment of private-sector influence and business-friendly priorities into academic life that determines the priorities of research; and a general lack of funding that threatens higher education. She says privatization is not the cure for higher education’s ills, and that there is still a role for governments to play in funding education for the good of the nation.
Ellen Schrecker is a professor of History at Yeshiva University and the author of several books. She is the former editor of the American Association of University Professor’s magazine, “Academe.”
“A Decade of Hope: Stories of Grief and Endurance from 9/11 Families and Friends” by Dennis Smith
September 5, 2011 · Dennis Smith is a former firefighter and the author of 16 books including the New York Times best seller, “Report from Ground Zero.”
In his latest book, Smith examines how the 9/11 first responders and their families, survivors and the families of victims have fared in the decade since the attacks. Through a series of interviews, we learn about how their lives have been transformed as they worked through their grief, despair and sometimes anger leading eventually to healing. Smith says 9/11 revealed the true character of the people who suffered through the event, and he is proud to share their stories. The interviews demonstrate hope for recovery, preserving the memory of loved ones and bringing honor to those who lost their lives on 9/11.
August 29, 2011 · McSweeny’s was founded in 1998 as a San Francisco based literary journal edited by Dave Eggers. Since then it has become a celebrated and award-winning independent publishing company.
Chris Ying, an editor for McSweeny’s, discusses how the small publishing company works to create art that honors the words of the author.
The book contains hundreds of images to illustrate the creative process from napkin sketches to the final product. A narrative history is also included which explores both the accidental and deliberate way they are transforming the visual experience of reading.
Ying says it’s a mistake to think of e-books and other digital media as a threat to traditional books. Each has their place and each have unique qualities that can be developed for the enjoyment of the reader.
McSweeny’s is already publishing in the digital media and is looking forward to exploring the possibilities as they unfold. More information about is available at mcsweeneys.net
August 29, 2011 ·Lev Grossman discusses his latest novel, “The Magician King,” with host Dan Skinner. The book is a sequel to his best selling “The Magicians,” which Grossman recommends people read first so that they have the context for the latest book.
Grossman discusses the plot of the books and talks about how fantasy helps us face issues and ask questions we might be trying to avoid in our real lives. Fantasy stories can also be inspiring. Although this book falls within the fantasy genre, it is not a young adult book. Rather, it’s intended for a mature audience because the characters deal with sexuality and other adult subjects.
In addition to being a fantasy writer, Lev Grossman is a well known cultural commentator and book critic for “TIME” magazine. He has written for numerous publications including the “New York Times,” “The Wall Street Journal,” and “Wired.”
“The Confederate and Neo-Confederate Reader: The Great Truth about the Lost Cause” by James Loewen
August 22, 2011 · What issues lead to the American Civil War? If you answered “states' rights,” historian James Loewen says you’re wrong. According to Loewen, almost two thirds of Americans,including most history teachers, believe and perpetuate the states' rights myth.
He says the error persists because most Americans have never read the key documents leading to the founding of the Confederacy. Loewen discusses solid evidence that the defense of slavery and white supremacy were the driving causes behind secession. He relates how it was after the war, starting in about 1890, that Neo-Confederates started trying to change perceptions about the true cause of the conflict.
Loewen is the author of numerous books including the bestselling “Lies My Teacher Told Me: Everything Your American History Textbook Got Wrong.”
“All Things Shining: Reading the Western Classics to Find Meaning in a Secular Age” by Sean Dorrance Kelly
August 22, 2011 · Sean Dorrance Kelly talks with host Dan Skinner about this New York Times bestseller, which is now available in paperback.
The book, co-authored with Hubert Dreyfus, presents a wide-ranging look at the loss of meaning in the West. Kelly describes how the ancient Greeks believed that our actions, at their best, are not completely under our control, but that we work in concert with the world around us, much as athletes perform when they are in “the zone.” Kelly says that contemporary culture is missing the context for life that goes beyond that offered by the tenets of any particular religion. The authors contend that in many ways, the ancients better understood what it means to be human and the lessons contained in Western classic literature are still relevant to today.
“Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease” by Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn, Jr.
August 15, 2011 · Heart disease is the number one killer of men and women in America, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn, Jr. talks with host Dan Skinner about the conclusions of his 20 year nutritional study, the longest study of its kind.
Esselstyn concludes that when it comes to heart disease, “heredity may have loaded the gun, but diet pulls the trigger.” He believes his study proves that eating a plant based oil free diet will prevent heart disease and, in some cases, actually reverse the effects. He admits that his ideas may seem extreme, but then again, Esselstyn thinks having a heart attack is more extreme than changing how you eat.
To help readers make the change to a healthier diet, his book offers over 150 heart healthy recipes and his website contains links to many more. Information is available at heartattackproof.com.
August 15, 2011 · Rob Dunn talks about how humans have removed themselves from nature and changed our web of ecological connections. Along the way, we’ve made progress in reducing or eliminating some life threatening diseases, but at the same time, new diseases have risen up to fill the void.
Dunn cautions against the obsessive use of antibiotics that may be killing off “friendly” germs that our bodies need to function properly and defend ourselves against greater threats. In other words, trying to be too clean may be making us sick. For humans, getting back to nature, isn’t just a nice thought; it might be critical to our long term survival.
Dunn is a professor in the department of biology at North Carolina State University. He has written more than 80 articles for magazines such as National Geographic, Scientific American, Natural History, and BBC Wildlife. More information about is available at yourwildlife.org.
"Are You Serious: How to Be True and Get Real in the Age of Silly" by Lee Siegel
August 8, 2011 · Lee Siegel believes that today’s 24-hour a day news cycle makes it hard for us to take leaders seriously because any misstep or character flaw is immediately made known.
Siegel talks with host Dan Skinner about the difference between seriousness, faux-seriousness, and outright silliness.
The book draws from contemporary and classic sources to illustrate his points. For example, he points to airline pilot Chesley Sullenberger as an example a person you can take seriously because he was sincerely just doing his job.
He names Keith Olbermann as an example of faux seriousness, pretending to be serious but really just taking a stance to cater to an audience. Siegel hopes the book will inspire readers to not accept what they are to
ld by leaders and celebrities at face value and instead take the time to consider if their remarks can be taken seriously.
"Appetite for America: Fred Harvey and the Business of Civilizing the Wild West – One Meal at a Time" by Stephen Fried
August 8, 2011 · Stephen Fried talks with host Dan Skinner about the impact and legacy of pioneering restaurateur Fred Harvey, the founding father of the nation’s service industry and America’s first foodie hero.
Beginning with a single lunch counter in 1876, he expanded into eating houses and hotels along the nation’s largest railroad, the Atchison, Topeka, and Sante Fe.
His empire included sixty-five restaurants, sixty dining cars, a dozen hotels, and locations in major Union Stations.
His historic lodges are still in use at the Grand Canyon. He created the first large scale female workforce and his “Harvey Girls” inspired the Oscar winning MGM movie musical starring Judy Garland.
Many of the former Harvey Houses still exist and are now preserved for their historical significance.
“The Tropic of Chaos: Climate Change and the New Geography of Violence” by Christian Parenti
August 1, 2011 · Christian Parenti talks with host Dan Skinner about the interrelationships between climate change, poverty, inequality and violence.
The book is based on extensive research and boots-on-the-ground investigative reporting from a belt of economically and politically battered post-colonial states straddling the planet’s mid-latitudes. He says that it is in this “Tropic of Chaos” that the impact of climate change is being felt most urgently, exacerbating the pre-existing crises.
Parenti is a contributing editor at “The Nation.” He has a Ph.D in sociology from the London School of Economics. He is the author of several books, and his articles have appeared in numerous newspapers and magazines.
More information about is available at christianparenti.com.
“Turn Right at Machu Picchu: Rediscovering the Lost City One Step at A Time” by Mark Adams
August 1, 2011 · Mark Adams talks with host Dan Skinner, about the current theories on why Machu Picchu was built high in a remote area of the Andes Mountains of Peru.
After the sight was abandoned, it became overgrown and forgotten by all but those who lived nearby. It was “rediscovered” by American explorer Hiram Bingham on July 24, 1911. The book is part history and part travel journal as Adams recounts his personal journey to explore Machu Picchu and three other Inca sites discovered by Bingham.
In addition to this book on Machu Picchu, Mark Adams is the author of “Mr. America,” which “The Washington Post” named the Best Book of 2009.
“Through the Eyes of the Vikings: An Aerial Vision of Arctic Lands” by Richard Haas
July 25, 2011 · Richard Haas tells host Dan Skinner that he found his niche when he started photographing landscapes from the air. Viewing the earth from above provides an opportunity to observe patterns in nature that you can’t see from the ground. During the course of the interview Haas discusses the challenges he faced capturing the photographs and why he believes the photos were worth the effort. Through his photos, readers will learn that arctic is not just snow covered expanses, but rather a land of dramatic diversity and brilliant colors.
The book, published by National Geographic, serves as testimony to the beauty of this part of our planet and why we need to protect it. He hopes readers of the book will take time to linger over the pictures and consider man’s place in nature. He also offers some advice for aspiring photographers.
“College Safety 101: Miss Independent’s Guide to Empowerment, Confidence and Staying Safe”
by Kathleen Batty
July 25, 2011 · Safety expert Kathleen Baty a/k/a “The Safety Chick,” has written a comprehensive guide to personal safety that covers everything from daily life to more serious threats on campus. Baty advises young women to research a college’s safety record before making a choice to attend. She offers advice on protecting themselves on campus, in the dorm and when traveling.
The book, while covering serious topics such as sexual harassment, date rape, and domestic violence, is written in a friendly tone and includes checklists, personal anecdotes from students, and suggested resources. Baty’s concern for sharing safety advice grew out of her own experience as the victim of a kidnap attempt at knife-point by an obsessed stalker.
July 18, 2011 · Talia Carner latest novel was inspired by the life of her grandmother. The story deals with a young women, in early 20th century Jerusalem, who struggles with her traditional faith and her desire to be an artist.
Carner discusses the research that went into the novel and how she had to look beyond the “official” record of the times because they were written from a male perspective. As in her previous two novels, this story points out issues that many women still face today around the world.
Talia Carner is the former publisher of “Savvy Woman” magazine and a lecturer at international women’s economic forums. A long time supporter of global human rights, she has spearheaded projects centered on the subjects of female plight and women’s activism. More information about is available at taliacarner.com.
July 18, 2011 · Danica McKellar is perhaps best known for her portrayal of Winnie Cooper on the “Wonder Years.” As an adult, in addition to her acting career, McKellar has earned international recognition as a gifted mathematician.
She has written a series of books designed to help teach math to young women. McKellar says that math is a language, and once you understand it, you can become fluent. She believes that being successful at math gives young women a new level of confidence that they can carry into the rest of their lives.
The book is designed to be entertaining as well as instructional. It includes fun quizzes, student success stories and testimonials from successful women who use math in their careers. “Hot X: Algebra Exposed” is McKellar’s third math book. She is currently working on a fourth book which will tackle geometry.
“Marriage Confidential: The Post Romantic Age of Workhorse Wives, Royal Children, Undersexed Spouses and Rebel Couples Who Are Rewriting the Rules” by Pamela Haag
July 11, 2011 · According to Pamela Haag’s research, most divorces today are not coming from angry couples, but instead, from people who describe their marriages as low conflict, semi-happy relationships, just unfulfilling and not truly happy. Sometimes marrying your best friend has a downside, as the relationship becomes too comfortable, and the spark goes out of the relationship.
Haag share’s research about how attitudes are changing about marriage and how new expectations about fidelity are emerging. Statistics show that the fidelity gap has closed, and women are just as likely as mean to stray from monogamy. She believes marriage is moving into a “post romantic” sensibility.
Pamela Haag has a Ph.D. in History from Yale and has made her career as a researcher and writer. She writes a blog for the Huffington Post and has been published by numerous sources including NPR.
“Saveur: The New Comfort Food, Home Cooking From Around the World” edited by James Oseland
July 11, 2011 · Editor James Oseland says “Saveur” magazine has been called the National Geographic of Food, and he is proud of that comparison. The magazine isn’t just about recipes, it’s about the culture and history of food.
For example, did you know that New Braunfels, Texas is the home of chili powder? Oseland tells host Dan Skinner that this latest book grew out of a discussion among the magazine staff about what constitutes comfort food in today’s global village. Oseland says comfort food is not overly complicated, and although hard to describe, most people know it when they taste it.
The recipes range from The Ultimate Grilled Cheese Sandwich and New Orleans-Style BBQ Shrimp to Israeli Poached Eggs in Spicy Tomato Sauce, Mexican Chiles Rellenos, Tuscan Herbed Tomato Tart, Sweet and Spicy Korean Fired Chicken Cream Spiced Indian Lentils. The book is filled with photographs, and first person stories that give the recipes cultural context.
More information about is available at saveur.com.
July 11, 2011 · “Power” is a collection of portraits, made by the photographer Platon, of 100 of the world’s most influential leaders. Platon received top security clearance at the United Nations to capture portraits of leaders as they came to New York to address the assembly.
Platon talks with host Dan Skinner about the experience of photographing some of the planets most famous and infamous persons. The portraits are captured in an up-close and personal style which allows readers to look directly into the eyes of these leaders and see them as human beings. The results are sometimes engaging and sometimes disturbing. Looks can be deceiving and a friendly face can mask the atrocities committed under their leadership.
The Year Book style publication was designed by Scott Dadich, the award-winning designer and Creative Director of “Wired Magazine.” Platon is a staff photographer for the “New Yorker,” and the recipient of the prestigious World Press Photo Award and National Magazine Photo Portfolio Award.
“You Are Not Your Brain: The 4-Step Solution for Changing Bad Habits, Ending Unhealthy Thinking and Taking Control of Your Life” by Jeffery M. Schwartz M.D. and Rebecca Gladding, M.D.
July 4, 2011 · According to Dr. Rebecca Gladding, you really can’t trust your brain. Your brain will offer up courses of action and ways of thinking that may not be good for you. It takes using your “mind” to keep your “brain” under control and train it to react in healthier ways.
Dr. Gladding says we can teach our brain to support our efforts to lose weight, exercise and stop worrying instead of encouraging us to sabotage our best efforts. Drawing from several biological principles including the quantum Zeno effect and neuroplasticity, the book explains why the brain sends us negative messages and how we can dismiss them in favor of healthy thinking that builds more positive associations between thoughts, feelings, beliefs and actions.
Rebecca Gladding, M.D. is a Clinical Instructor and Staff Psychiatrist at the UCLA Stewart and Lynda Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital and the Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior. Her co-author, Jeffrey Schwartz, M.D. is Research Psychiatrist at UCLA School of Medicine and a seminal thinker and researcher in the filed of self-directed neuroplasticity.
“We Are America: A Tribute from the Heart” by Walter Dean Myers and Christopher Myers
July 4, 2011 · Together, writer Walter Dean Myers and his illustrator son, Christopher Myers, have created several award winning books. They talk with host Dan Skinner about why they hope their latest book will start a dialog within families about what it means to be an American.
The text is written in lyrical free verse that speaks to the heart and soul of the country, featuring both common folks and extraordinary people engaged in some of the monumental events that have shaped the nation. To illustrate book, Christopher created three-by-nine foot murals which were then photographed for the publication.
Walter Dean Myers has received every major book award in the field of children’s literature. Christopher is a Caldecott Honor and Coretta Scott King Honor illustrator.
July 4, 2011 · Noah Webster was not a pleasant man, but he was a very brilliant man who made major contributions to the founding of our nation and the establishment of the English language.
As America gained independence, there was debate about what language the new nation should adopt. Historian Joshua Kendall talks with host Dan Skinner about how Webster’s obsession with words helped influence the development of the English language in America, distinguishing it from the English spoken in England.
Before the creation of his dictionary, Webster authored a reference for spelling that became a blockbuster hit. Kendall discusses Webster’s influence on the founding fathers and the many contradictory roles he adopted during his life. As a result of his many interests and strong opinions, Webster ended up publishing more words than any other member of the founding generation.
“Collective Visioning: How Groups Can Work Together for a Just and Sustainable Future” by Linda Stout
June 27, 2011 · Linda Stout grew up poor in North Carolina and also came from a Quaker heritage. In part because of her background, she discovered early in life, that she wanted to make a difference, not only for herself and her family but for her community.
Linda became a community organizer and created the successful Piedmont Peace Project in the 1980s. In 2000, she formed “Spirit in Action” to help groups organize for justice. Her book describes the process behind “Collective Visioning” and how people from every background can use it to form local and national networks to create positive change in the world. The book contains many stories that illustrate how the process works including how she used the process to work with children after hurricane Katrina to improve the schools in New Orleans.
“The Last Gunfight: The Real Story of the Shootout at the O.K. Corral – and How it Changed the American West” by Jeff Guinn
June 27, 2011 · Historian Paul Guinn says the great thing about studying history is that the truth is usually more interesting than the fiction. Although the story of the “Shootout at the O.K. Corral” has obtained mythic status as a battle between good and evil, the true story behind the myth is much more complicated.
For example, Sherriff Wyatt Earp was not a hero with high moral standards. In fact, in his youth, Earp was arrested as a horse thief and broke out of jail while waiting for trial. Doc Holliday was a drunk, but he was also a skilled dentist whose false teeth won first place at the Texas State Fair. Although the shootout did happen in Tombstone, it did not take place in the O.K. Corral. Tombstone was a fairly sophisticated city at the time of the conflict, and gunfights between sheriffs and bad guys were very rare in the west.
Guinn hopes the book will inspire to learn more about the real history of our nation instead of accepting the myths that have grown over time.
“Man Up! 367 Classic Skills for the Modern Guy” by Paul O’Donnell
June 27, 2011 · When Paul O’Donnell started interviewing job seekers he was surprised at the lack of judgment exhibited by many young men showing up for interviews. They sometimes arrived unshaven, inappropriately dressed and unprepared to answer typical interview questions.
Researching the need for an advice book, he discovered that there are many areas of knowledge and skill that today’s young adults need. The book examines 367 topics including relationships, food, home brewing, apartment decorating, and yes, job interviews. The topics are covered in a concise and entertaining way with illustrations, charts and grids.
O’Donnell says the book is for anyone who needs advice when moving outside of their comfort zone. He says “Man Up!” is also finding an audience among young women.
“A Singular Woman: The Untold Story of Barack Obama’s Mother” by Janny Scott
June 20, 2011 · For Janny Scott, saying that Barack Obama’s mother is a white woman from Kansas is like saying that Obama is a politician that likes to play golf.
The book grew out of a newspaper article that Scott wrote about Stanley Ann Dunham, which attempts to shed more light on her. For this biography, Scott retraced Dunham’s unconventional life from her birth in Kansas to her life in Hawaii and Indonesia. Scott interviewed over 200 people including the President and his sister.
Dunham had a varied career including work as an anthropologist, development consultant and a groundbreaking pioneer in microfinance. Although much has been made on the influence of Obama’s father, Scott thinks it is important to learn more about Obama’s mother and how she influenced him. Janny Scott was a reporter for the "New York Times" from 1994 to 2008, when she left to write the book.
“Wicked Bugs: The Louse That Conquered Napoleon’s Army & Other Diabolical Insects” by Amy Stewart
June 20, 2011 · Many people are afraid of bugs, but that fear is often misplaced. In “Wicked Bugs: The Louse That Conquered Napoleon’s Army & Other Diabolical Insects,” Amy Stewart tells tales of bugs that truly deserve to be feared.
Stewart says the bugs profiled in this book can cause serious harm to people or managed to change the course of history. Among the stories related in the book is how Henry Morton Stanley’s accidental spreading of Tsetse Flies during his search for David Livingston wiped out nearly two-thirds of the region’s population. She also discusses how scorpions glow when exposed to black light.
This book is a follow-up to “Wicked Plants.” More information about is available at wickedbugs.com.
June 20, 2011 · While Kwok's book is fiction, it parallels the author’s own life. Kwok’s family emigrated from Hong Kong, and she worked alongside her mother in a Chinatown sweatshop at the age of five. Kwok eventually escaped the life of the factory and attended Harvard.
The novel's fictional character Kimberly Chang works in a Chinatown sweatshop during the night and attends Yale during the day. She must choose between two young men that she grows to love in each “world.” The novel, like Kwok’s own life, is a story of adversity, determination and triumph.
More information about is available at jeankwok.com.
“Malcolm X: A Life of Reinvention” by Manning Marable
June 13, 2011 · Manning Marable passed away on April 1, 2011, shortly after “Malcolm X: A Life of Reinvention” was published. Wendy Wolf worked with Marable as an editor and talks with Dan Skinner about new insights contained in the book.
The book discusses how Malcolm X’s beliefs evolved over time. In the last months of his life, after visiting Africa, Malcolm X left the Nation of Islam and formed a new sect that preached inclusion instead of separation, a move that led to his death. The book contains never before published details about the circumstances surrounding the assassination of Malcolm X at the age of 39. The book also reveals Malcolm X as a thinker instead of just a stirring orator. Wolfe says Marable would like Malcolm X to be remembered as a real human being instead of an icon.
Manning Marable was the author of 15 books and a professor of history and public affairs at Columbia University.
“Tangled Webs: How False Statements are Undermining America: From Martha Stewart to Bernie Madoff” by James B. Stewart
June 13, 2011 · James Stewart presents the cases of Martha Stewart, Lewis “Scooter” Libby, Barry Bonds and Bernard Madoff in this examination of the consequences of a “perjury epidemic” that undercuts the very foundation of our courts: relying on witnesses to tell the truth.
Stewart believes these high profile cases are systematic of an American society in wich some public figures perceive themselves as being above the law. Stewart consulted original documentation and conducted exclusive interviews with investigators and others to bring new insights to light. He argues that a growing culture of lying harms our judicial system, academia, business, medicine and government.
James Stewart is a Pulitzer Prize winning reporter and former editor of the Wall Street Journal.
June 13, 2011 · Historian Harold Holzer is a leading authority on Abraham Lincoln. In this latest book, prepared in time for the anniversary of the Civil War, Holzer presents a collection of Lincoln’s writing and correspondence.
From Reagan to Obama, presidents have quoted Lincoln to support their own agendas, and Holzer believes it is important for people to read what Lincoln actually thought about the most important issue in his presidency: the Civil War.
Some historians suggest that Lincoln evolved from a dove to a hawk over his political career, but Holzer says that’s not quite true. Lincoln just believed it was important to pick one’s battles wisely. In this interview, Holzer also speculates on what Abe would tell Barack if the two presidents were able to confer about today’s conflicts.
“Immigrants Raising Citizens” by Hirokazu Yoshikawa
June 6, 2011 · Harvard professor Hirokazu Yoshikawa shares his research on early childhood development issues experienced by children with undocumented parents in “Immigrants Raising Citizens.”
Fearing deportation, these parents avoid accessing valuable resources that could help their children. Nearly four million US citizen children are in this situation. Yoshikawa points out that as these children grow into adults, they are unlikely to reach their educational and productivity potential, which will be to the detriment of the nation. The book also suggests some possible solutions to the problem.
Yoshikawa is a member of the Board on Children, Youth and Families of the National Academy of Sciences. He regularly serves as an advisor to government agencies, foundations and nongovernmental organizations in the United States and abroad.
June 6, 2011 · “Where She Went” is Gayle Forman’s sequel to her New York Times bestselling young adult novel “If I Stay.”
The story picks up three years after the previous novel ends. The story unfolds during the course of a single night in New York City, when the former lovers, Mia and Adam are brought together by chance.The novel explores emotions felt in the wake of tragedy and celebrates that life and true love can blossom, even after heartbreaking loss.
Although the book is targeted to a young adult audience, Forman says she has heard from many adult readers who appreciate the universal emotions explored in the novel.
June 6, 2011 · Pulitzer Prize winning author Geraldine Brooks talks with host Dan Skinner about her latest novel, “Caleb’s Crossing,” which is based on the story of the first Native American to graduate from Harvard in 1665.
Caleb Cheeshahteaumauk was a member of the Wampanoag Tribe located on what is now known as West Chop on Martha’s Vineyard. Very little is known about the real life of Caleb, so Brooks created a fictional life to fill in the void and recreate the times.
The story is told through the eyes of the fictional character Bethia Mayfield who became friends with Caleb when they were both children. Bethia and Caleb share a quest for knowledge and through their friendship they learn about each other’s culture.
“Life in Year One: What the World Was Like in First Century Palestine” by Scott Korb
May 30, 2011 · Religious historian Scott Korb hopes that readers of “Life in Year One” will come away with a better sense of the world as it existed during the time of Christ.
The book focuses on the 75 years between the birth of Jesus and the destruction of Jerusalem by the Romans. The book has been described as earthy, provocative, probing and fun. Examples of life in that time include coins with no “heads” because of the prohibition against graven images; medicine was an act of faith instead of science; and baths were designed to keep you pure in the eyes of God, but usually not very clean by today’s standards.
Among other things, Korb describes how people in first century Palestine cooked and ate their food, built their houses, and dealt with waste disposal. More information is available at lifeinyearone.tumblr.com.
“Mom: A Celebration of Mothers from Story Corps” by David Isay
May 30, 2011 · Dave Isay talks with host Dan Skinner about how StoryCorps began and the latest book generated from the collected interviews.
This book features conversations between parents and children, husbands and wives, siblings and friends that illustrate the life of the American mother. “Mom” includes a variety of voices representing everyday people whose memories reveal what it means to be a mother.
Dan and Dave talk about StoryCorps' visit to San Antonio and how people can conduct their own interviews with loved ones. More information about the book and suggested questions for do-it-yourself interviews is available at storycorps.org.
May 30, 2011 · How would the world react if a vast consciousness spontaneously emerged from the World Wide Web? Would it be viewed as friendly or an enemy to be destroyed?
Robert J. Sawyer talks with host Dan Skinner about the last installment in the WWW trilogy. Most movies and novels portray Artificial Intelligence (AI) as malevolent, but Sawyer gives us a different take on this sci-fi staple.
In this final novel, Webmind has found a cure for cancer; is easing international tensions; and is regarded by many to be a boon to humanity. However, the Pentagon’s Colonel Peyton Hume believes Webmind is a threat that must be destroyed. Caught in the middle is 16 year old Caitlin Decter, a once-blind math genius who discovered and then bonded with Webmind. Will Webmind survive?
It’s worth noting that the character of Caitlin Decter is a former Texan, now living in Canada, so Sawyer has scattered Texas references throughout the books. Robert J. Sawyer has won both the Hugo and Nebula Awards for best novel. He lives just outside of Toronto, Canada. More information is available at sfwriter.com
“Boys, Girls and Other Hazardous Materials” by Rosalind Wiseman
May 23, 2011 · Teen bullying expert and educator, Rosalind Wiseman, is perhaps best known for her non-fiction book “Queen Bees and Wannabes.”
Her latest book is her first attempt at fiction. She hopes that the book will reach young people and help them find constructive ways to deal with bullying and other issues they face at school. She used a class of students to review the book and provide her with feedback on how to model positive behavior in the story without becoming “preachy.”
The central character is a girl named Charlie who transfers to a new school and soon discovers that she has to not only look-out for mean girls, but also learn that boys can be just a cruel. More information is available at rosalindwiseman.com
“The Girl’s Guide to Homelessness” by Brianna Karp
May 23, 2011 · At 23, Brianna Karp had a solid job as an executive assistant earning $50,000 annually. Yet, when her company suddenly downsized during the recent economic downturn, Brianna lost her job. She was unable find employment again, and after a disastrous attempt to move back home, she ended up living in an old camper and taking whatever low wage jobs she could find.
At the urging of friends, Brianna started blogging about her experiences wherever should could find free Wi-Fi service. Her blogs caught the attention of the media, and she ended up appearing on CNN and The Today Show. Her blogging eventually lead to a book, which she hopes will help change people’s stereotypes about homeless people. More information is available at girlsguidetohomelessness.com.
“Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without Giving In” by William Ury
May 23, 2011 · Since it was first published in 1981, "Getting to Yes" has been translated into more than 30 languages, and it has sold over 8 million copies around the globe.
William Ury, who co-wrote the classic book with Roger Fisher and Bruce Patton, talks with host Dan Skinner about how the new edition has been updated. The principles of the art of negotiation remain unchanged from the original work. This updated version offers advice on negotiating in a world of e-mail and text messages.
Ury, who co-founded the Harvard Negotiation Project, says this book is for everyone because we are always negotiating whether it involves bosses, co-workers, parents, children, friends, or just about anyone.
“The Secrets of People Who Never Get Sick” by Gene Stone
May 16, 2011 · Gene Stone says that he had written for years about health and became intrigued by people who claimed never to get sick. In this book, he tells the story of 25 of these people and then goes on to investigate the science, research, and myths behind their claims.
Stone says he was skeptical at first, but outside of an occasional cold, he was able to verify that they generally didn’t get sick. Among the positive habits of these people included napping; using cinnamon and other herbs and spices; having a strong social network of people with good health habits; exercise; caloric reduction and a plant based diet. He also exposes some myths about health. More information is available at secretsofpeople.com.
May 16, 2011 · Isabel Allende says the inspiration for her latest novel started with a visit to New Orleans. Her research on the culture of the Big Easy took her back to Haiti during its colonial era and the revolution at the turn of the 19th Century. The novel spans four decades in the life of a woman named Zarite, who was born a slave on the island of Saint-Domingue and eventually travels to New Orleans in search of love and freedom.
Isabel Allende was born in Peru, raised in Chile, and now lives in California. Her books have been best sellers across four continents. In 2004 she was inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Letters. More information is available at isabelallende.com.
May 16, 2011 · Mo Willems talks about starting out as a stand-up comic, and then getting hired to write “sketch comedy” for Sesame Street. He also honed his animation skills during his Sesame Street years where he won six Emmys.
Willems is a three-time Caldecott Honor Winner and is well know for such children’s classics as “Knuffle Bunny,” “Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus,” and the “Elephant and Piggie” books. He says this latest book is his longest at 71 pages, and describes it as a combination picture book and chapter book with 6 ½ stories about Amanda and her stuffed alligator. Willems says he tries to make his books entertaining for adults to read to children, because if the adult is engaged, it will be more entertaining for the child.
More information is available at mowillems.com where parents will also find activities for children. You can also sign up for “The Pigeon” tweets.
"A Chance to Make History: What Works and What Doesn’t in Providing an Excellent Education for All" by Wendy Kopp
May 9, 2011 · Wendy Kopp is the founder of Teach for America. She was in San Antonio recently and stopped by the TPR studios to talk with Dan Skinner about her organization and her new book, “A Chance to Make History: What Works and What Doesn’t in Providing an Excellent Education for All.” The book shares inspirational stories and tales of lessons learned by teachers and leaders who are working to provide transformational education in low-income communities across the country. The book describes what it will take to provide education that changes the academic and life trajectories predicted by children’s socioeconomic backgrounds and that will change America’s future. Kopp has Texas roots; she was born in Austin and went to high school in Dallas. More information is available at teachforamerica.org.
"The Killer of Little Shepherds: A True Crime Story and the Birth of Forensic Science" by Douglas Starr
May 9, 2011 · Douglas Starr is the co-director of the graduate program in Science and Medical Journalism at Boston University. In this non-fiction book, that sometimes reads like a thriller, Starr tells the story of the 19th century serial murderer, Joseph Vacher and how he is pursued by prosecutor Emile Fourquet and Dr. Alexandre Lacassagne. The book explores how Lacassagne and his colleagues developed forensics as we know it by refining the use of blood spatter evidence, systemizing the autopsy and doing groundbreaking work in psychology. The book describes the role Lacassagne’s work played in the trial of the serial murderer Vacher. More information is available at douglasstarr.com.
May 9, 2011 · Private investigators Sean King and Michelle Maxwell return in David Baldacci’s latest thriller, “The Sixth Man.” Baldacci discusses the plot, which involves the highest levels of national security as the investigators work to defend an alleged serial killer. He talks about the research that went into the book and what he learned about the current state of information sharing between U.S. intelligence agencies. He also discusses why readers are attracted to the characters of King and Maxwell. He says many readers enjoy that Michelle Maxwell is the stronger member of the duo and that she sometimes has to protect the more cerebral Sean King. More information is available at davidbaldacci.com.
“Gated Grief: The Daughter of a GI Concentration Camp Liberator Discovers a Legacy of Trauma” by Leila Levinson
May 2, 2011 · After her father passed away, Austin based writer Leila Levinson discovered photographs her father had taken during the liberation of a WWII concentration camp. As a medic, he worked with the survivors for several weeks until he suffered a mental breakdown. This discovery led Levinson to contact other GI’s who had participated in the liberation of the camps to see how they handled the trauma of the experience and how it affected their children. Writing the book and talking with the children of other concentration camp liberators has helped her better understand her father. She says her book speaks to all veterans of war who are trying to protect their families from their war time experiences but instead end up shutting down emotionally. She hopes her book will create the opportunity for healing in families. More information is available at veteranschildren.com.
“Time Loops and Space Twists: How God Created the Universe” by Fred Alan Wolf
May 2, 2011 · Dr. Fred Alan Wolf is a physicist, writer and lecturer. He has written 14 books including “Taking the Quantum Leap,” which received the National Book Award for Science. In this latest book, Dr. Wolf describes the time loops and space twists of quantum physics in lay terms and explains the role they played in the creation of the universe. Building on the effect of the “observer” in quantum physics, Dr. Wolf speculates that a “mind field” had to be in play to observe creation and discusses this in relation to various religious texts that describe the beginning of the universe. More information is available at fredalanwolf.com.
May 2, 2011 · Actress and New York Times bestselling author of “Come to the Edge,” Christina Haag talks with host Dan Skinner about her relationship with John F. Kennedy Jr. She first met him when she was 15, and they became a couple after being cast together in an off-Broadway play after college. Their romantic relationship lasted five years. She began writing about their relationship as a way of dealing with her grief over his death, and this eventually led to writing the book. She talks about why she decided to share their love story with the public. She also discusses her relationship with Jackie Onassis and why she admired her.
"Chicken and Egg: A Memoir of Suburban Homesteading with 125 Recipes" by Janice Cole
April 25, 2011 · Janice Cole talks with host Dan Skinner about her adventures in raising chickens. A friend gave her some fresh eggs and because they tasted so good, she decided she had to start raising her own chickens. The eggs were her focus so she says the most surprising thing about the experience was how attached she has become to her chickens. She writes about the personalities of the three hens that have become her cherished pets. The book is part memoir and part cookbook. However, even though her book contains recipes for both eggs and chicken, she confesses that she can't bring herself to eat her own chickens. Janice Cole is a former chef and restaurant owner. She is a food writer, cooking instructor and food stylist. More information is available at janicecole.net.
"Come Together: The Business Wisdom of the Beatles" by Richard Courtney and George Cassidy
April 25, 2011 · Richard Courtney and George Cassidy talk with host Dan Skinner about how they examined the Fab Four as businessmen. The book features 100 brief chapters that represent lessons learned from the business practices of the Beatles. The authors explore what business decisions did and didn’t work for the Beatles. Passion is a pre-requisite for success as illustrated by the Beatles mission to be the most successful music group ever. However, the problems faced by the Beatles after the death of Brian Epstein, demonstrates their failure to plan for contingencies. The book is of interest to Beatles fans and the business community. More information is available at beatlesbusiness.com.
"The Bond: Our Kinship with Animals, Our Call to Defend Them" by Peter Pacelle
April 25, 2011 · The President of the Humane Society of the United States talks with host Dan Skinner about the bond between humans and animals. He says that the bond has been broken in many by contemporary living that separates many of us from animals. He talks about the issues impacting animal welfare and challenges us to do better job of protecting our fellow creatures. He discusses some of the barriers to needed change including farm and hunting groups with strong lobbies that can prevent laws from being enacted to protect animals. More information is available at humanesociety.org.
“The Book of Awakening: Having the Life You Want by Being Present to the Life You Have” by Mark Nepo
April 18, 2011 · Mark Nepo is a poet, philosopher and teacher. Nepo is also a cancer survivor, and the experience enhanced his appreciation of life.
He discusses the meaning of “being present to the life we have” and how the book is designed to help us appreciate and reflect on our lives.
For each day of the year, the book provides an inspirational quote or verse, followed by a brief illustrative story, and then concludes with exercises of observation and breathing. More information is available at MarkNepo.com.
“Alone Together: Why We Expect More from Technology and Less from Each Other” by Sherry Turkle
April 18, 2011 · Sherry Turkle is a professor of Social Sciences and Technology at MIT and a clinical psychologist. For 15 years she has followed how families use technology and the ways in which we interact with technology.
Dr. Turkle talks about how technology has redrawn the boundaries between intimacy and solitude. She advises us to put down our smart phones and devote some time to one-on-one face-to-face interaction. She also discusses the dangers of “sociable robotics.”
Robots are being developed to provide elder care and child care. She says it is an inappropriate use of technology to have a robot that professes to “care” for you and serves as a confidante because a robot is not a living creature. More information is available at alonetogetherbook.com
April 18, 2011 · Ruta Sepetys discusses her novel, which begins in Lithuanian in World War II. Inspired by her own family’s history, the story is told through the eyes of a 15-year-old girl who is sent along with her family to a Siberian work camp.
Septys discusses the history behind the novel and how she researched the story by talking with survivors of Stalin’s war on the people of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. Millions were enslaved and murdered during Stalin’s campaign.
This is the heart-breaking portrayal of one survivor. Although the novel is brutal at times, Sepetys hopes readers will also see it as a celebration of life.
More information is available at betweenshadesofgray.com
“Autism Solutions: How to Create a Healthy and Meaningful Life for Your Child” by Dr. Ricki G. Robinson
April 18, 2011 · Autism is the fastest growing developmental disability in the United States. Dr. Ricki G. Robinson is a pediatrician who specializes in the treatment of children with Autism. She discusses the symptoms of Autism and the range of behaviors found on the Autism Spectrum.
Because Autism manifests itself differently in each child, Dr. Robinson discusses treatment options and offers advice to parents on how to work with healthcare professionals to craft a customized program of therapy.
She also addresses the controversy about immunizations and autism. She says the risks of going without immunizations outweigh any risk that immunizations might cause autism. More information is available at drrickirobinson.com.
“Generations, Inc.: From Boomers to Linksters — Managing the Friction Between Generations at Work” by Meagan & Larry Johnson
April 11, 2011 · Father and daughter consulting team Meagan and Larry Johnson discuss how to manage multiple generations in the workplace. They explain the differences between Traditionals, Baby Boomers, Generation X, Generation Y and Linksters.
For example, how do “teamwork loving” baby boomers work with more independent Generation X employees? How do you handle managing someone who is old enough to be your father, or to be managed by someone half your age?
Meagan and Larry offer advice on how to communicate across generations and respect each others preferences and points of view. More information is available at genincbook.com.
April 11, 2011 · Sarah Vowell discusses the inspiration for this book about Hawaiian history. In 1898 the United States, in what Vowell describes as “an orgy of imperialism,” invaded and/or acquired Cuba, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines along with annexing Hawaii as a military base. The expansion made the United States a world power in a single summer.
She relates how Boston missionaries set sail for Hawaii, how their descendents created the sugar industry, how they eventually overthrew the last queen of Hawaii in 1893.
Hawaii’s ethnic diversity is the result of workers who came to the island to work on the sugar plantations. That diversity is reflected in the traditional “place lunch,” which is a popular meal in Hawaii consisting of Japanese-style rice, macaroni salad and some protein such as teriyaki chicken or lau lau pork. More information is available at barclayagency.com/vowell.
“Better by Mistake: The Unexpected Benefits of Being Wrong” by Alina Tugend
April 11, 2011 · Alina Tugend discusses how in this time of financial and business instability, people feel pressure to be perfect. She contends that it is only when we embrace and learn from our mistakes that we are able to achieve excellence.
However, making that change won’t be easy because fear of making mistakes is engrained in our culture. Parents and the education system need to reward children for making good efforts and encourage them to excel instead of playing it safe by not taking risks.
The book also discusses how to make a good apology when we’re just plain wrong.
Alina Tugend has been a journalist for more than 25 years. Her articles have appeared in numerous publications including the "New York Times," the "Los Angeles Times," and the "Chronicle of Higher Education." More information is available at alinatugend.com.
“Triumph of the City: How Our Greatest Invention Makes Us Richer, Smarter, Greener, Healthier, and Happier” by Edward Glaeser
April 11, 2011 · Two thirds of the American population lives on the 3% of land that contains our cities.
Edward Glaeser is a professor of economics at Harvard University. His book travels through history and around the globe to reveal how cities bring out the best in mankind. Glaeser argues that our culture, prosperity and freedom are ultimately a product of people living, working and thinking together, all of which can only happen in our cities.
He admits that cities do have their downsides, but sometimes, the negatives are unfounded. For example, city dwellers use 40% less energy than suburbanites, and cancer rates in New York City are lower than the nation as a whole.
Glaeser discusses why some cities succeed and some don’t. More information is available at triumphofthecity.com.
“Buzz: A Year of Paying Attention” by Katherine Ellison
April 4, 2011 · Pulitzer prize winning journalist Katherine Ellison talks with host Dan Skinner about raising a child with ADD/ADHD and about how she was diagnosed with ADD in midlife.
The book has been described as humorous and heartbreaking. She chronicles her family’s efforts to deal with their conditions and how it affects their family dynamics. She shares her research into treatment strategies including medication and non-traditional approaches.
Through her research she debunks some myths about ADHD medication and presents a more realistic view of the risks and side effects. She also commiserates with parents who suffer from the judgmental opinions of others who believe ADHD is the result of poor parenting. More information is available at katherineellison.com.
“Moonwalking with Einstein: The Art and Science of Remembering Everything” by Joshua Foer
April 4, 2011 · Joshua Foer talks with host Dan Skinner about the world of competitive memorization and what he learned along the way. He covered United States Memory Championship in New York as a journalist. He spent the following year in training then returned to the competition the following year and won.
He learned that techniques used in ancient times are still valid today to aid memorization and also explored what present day science tells us about memory. For example, Foer describes the ancient Roman mnemonic device known as the “Memory Palace” and how it creates “mental cubby holes” for storing information in a way that we can later retrieve on demand.
Foer observes that most of us don’t use our memory as much as people did in the past because we’ve “outsourced” our memory to computers and smart phones. More information is available at joshuafoer.com.
“Nerve: Poise Under Pressure, Serenity Under Stress, and the Brave New Science of Fear and Cool” by Taylor Clark
April 4, 2011 · In “Nerve: Poise Under Pressure, Serenity Under Stress, and the Brave New Science of Fear and Cool,” Taylor Clark explores what we know and what it teaches us about coping strategies.
Clark explains that while fear is a physical reaction to an immediate threat, anxiety is a cognitive reaction to things that might happen. He says that people who are good at dealing with fear and anxiety have learned to embrace it and use it to help them deal with situations instead of treating it as the enemy. He offers techniques for people to use to overcome common fears such as public speaking. Anxiety thrives on uncertainty, so practicing a speech and visiting the room in which the speech will be given reduce the number of unknowns in the situation.
Clark also talks about how humor changes the perception of the situation, exerts a level of control and therefore reduces anxiety. More information is available at taylorclarkbooks.com.
“Nerds: How Dorks, Dweebs, Techies, and Trekkies Can Save America… And Why They Might Be Our Last Hope” by David Anderegg, Ph.D.
April 4, 2011 · Dr. David Anderegg, a family psychologist, talks with host Dan Skinner about how the negative “nerd” stereotype affects a child’s developing identity.
In his practice, he sees evidence that children with abilities in math and science are discouraged from pursuing studies in those areas to avoid being labeled a “nerd.” Dr. Anderegg traces the cultural influences that reinforce the nerd stereotype from “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” written in 1820 to the current TV show “Big Bang Theory.”
Anderegg discusses what parents and educators can do to combat negative stereotypes and encourage children to reach their potential. More information is available at drdavidanderegg.com
March 28, 2011 · Deborah Harkness is a history professor at the University of Southern California, specializing in the history of science between the years of 1400 to 1700.
Prior to this best selling debut novel, she had only written non-fiction. The novel was prompted by her musing about what a witch or vampire would do for a living today, if they really existed. Unlike other books in this genre, her novel is intended for adults, and she has been able to use her knowledge of science and medicine to ground the story in history.
The subtext of the novel is about prejudice and forbidden relationships — in this case, between a witch and a vampire. She hopes the book will be a fun read but will also make people think. Two sequels are planned for the novel. More information is available at deborahharkness.com.
Emotional Freedom: Liberate Yourself from Negative Emotions and Transform Your Life by Judith Orloff, M.D.
March 28, 2011 · We live in a fast-paced world, and it is easy for us to become overloaded and frustrated. Dr. Judith Orloff says this can result in “techno-despair.”
Dr. Orloff talks about what we can do to cope with technology that can leave us spaced out, tired and irritable. The book discusses how we can find opportunity in disappointment, learn our tech tolerance, and know when to laugh it off. She also discusses some easy techniques such as pausing for three minutes of meditation to calm ourselves, taking a break, and going for a walk.
Orloff describes the strengths and weaknesses of four emotional types, “the Intellectual,” “the Empath,” “the Rock,” and “the Gusher.” Dr. Judith Orloff is a UCLA psychiatrist and bestselling author. More information is available at judithorloff.com.
March 28, 2011 · Christina Meldrum talks with host Dan Skinner about how her novel explores perceptions of reality. The novel is about the ways in which family and love color our perceptions of the truth.
Amaryllis is the name of one of three daughters. She is keenly aware that she perceives the world differently from others because she has synethesia, a condition which allows her to taste emotions and hear colors.
The novel, which ranges from Michigan to West Africa, opens with her mother on trial for murdering her husband. As the story unfolds it is clear that there is always more than one way to perceive events.
More information is available at christinameldrum.com
Wheels of Change: How Women Rode the Bicycle to Freedom (With a Few Flat Tires Along the Way by Sue Macy
March 28, 2011 · Susan B. Anthony said the bicycle “has done more to emancipate women than anything else in the world.”
Sue Macy talks with host Dan Skinner about how the bicycle gave women freedom of mobility which made them more independent. The bicycle also influenced women’s fashion, advanced feminism and women’s rights.
The book begins with an exploration of the history of the bicycle. It also spotlights the earliest female bicycling competitors and female inventors who were inspired by the bicycle. The book includes many vintage photographs, advertisements, cartoons and songs that feature bicycles. While it is designed for young readers, Macy says adults are also finding the book of interest. More information is available at suemacy.com
March 21, 2011 · Eleanor Brown says the book was inspired by her desire to explore the notion of birth order stereotypes. Brown drew from first-hand experience, as the youngest of three sisters, to help her create the story.
The three sisters are the daughters of a Shakespeare professor, and they are named after three of the bards famous heroines: Rosalind (Rose), Bianca (Bean) and Cordelia (Cordy). The sisters return home to their small town when their mother is diagnosed with breast cancer. The story explores the complexity of sister relationships — the resentments, the love, the envy, shifting allegiances and the meaning of adulthood.
In addition to the family story, she says the book is “a love letter to books and to reading and to the things that can mean in your life.” More information is available at weirdsistersnovel.com
Seeking Happily Ever After: Navigating the Ups and Downs of Being Single Without Losing Your Mind (and Finding Lasting Love Along the Way) by Michelle Cove
March 21, 2011 · This book is based on a documentary of the same title that Michelle Cove just finished. For the film, she interviewed more than one hundred women about their lives, dreams and struggles. The book creates 12 categories of single women and offers advice for those who find themselves in that particular mindset.
In the interview Cove describes “The Soul Mate Seeker,” “The Organic,” and “The Trailblazer” categories. She says most women will recognize themselves in several different categories. The book also contains quizzes, case studies, action items, and some humorous lists such as “Songs to Play While Packing Your Ex’s Stuff.”
Michelle Cove is the director and producer of the feature-length documentary Seeking Happily Ever After and the coauthor of the national bestseller I’m Not Mad, I Just Hate You More information is available at seekinghappilyeverafter.com
March 21, 2011 · Jed Rubenfeld discusses the facts behind his historical fiction novel The Death Instinct. The backdrop of the story is based on the Wall Street bombing of 1920, the deadliest terrorist attack on American soil until that time. The incident remains an unsolved mystery and bears uncanny parallels with the terrorist attacks of 9/11.
Rubenfeld talks about the research that went into the book. Building from the historical facts, his fictional characters work to solve the mystery of the bombings. He describes his two main characters of the book, Dr. Younger and Detective Littlemore, as American versions of Holmes and Watson.
The title of the book is based on an idea by Sigmund Freud, who also makes an appearance in the book. Jed Rubenfeld is a professor at Yale University and one of America’s principle experts on constitutional law. This latest book is a follow up to his novel, The Interpretation of Murder.
March 21, 2011 · Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Stacy Schiff talks with Dan Skinner about the research that went into the writing of Cleopatra and how the historical woman differs from her pop culture image.
She was Greek, not Egyptian, but she ruled Egypt for 22 years and died at the age of 39. At the peak of her reign she was the richest leader in the world. Schiff says that historical records depict Cleopatra VII as a keen political strategist, a brilliant manager and a tough negotiator, but unlike how she is portrayed in pop culture, she was not a beautiful woman by today’s standards.
However, her power and charisma made her a very seductive figure who found great success in a world of murderous, enlightened time of exceptional opulence. More information is available at stacyschiff.com
March 14, 2011 · Kim Edward’s first novel, The Memory Keeper’s Daughter, was a #1 New York Times bestseller. Her new novel is about a young woman, Lucy Jarrett, returning home to the town of Lake of Dreams in upstate New York after living in Japan. She came home after her mother was in an automobile accident. When Lucy discovers a stack of old letters and historic pamphlets in her mother’s home, she starts a journey of discovery that reconfigures a cherished family legend. Edward’s discusses the inspiration for the novel and the research that went into the details of the story including the history of the suffrage movement and glassblowing. She drew from her personal experience living in upstate New York, as well as taking the liberty to create the fictional city of Lake of Dreams. She also discusses how family secrets can impact family members. More information is available at kimedwardsbooks.com
Deadly Choices: How the Anti-Vaccine Movement Threatens Us All by Dr. Paul Offit
March 14, 2011 · Dr. Paul Offit is an internationally-recognized expert in the areas of vaccine safety and rotavirus-specific immune responses. He says that diseases which many thought had been eradicated, such as measles and whooping cough, have now reappeared due to parents not vaccinating their children. The problem of non-vaccination has become such an increasing concern that some pediatricians are refusing to see patients who have not been vaccinated. Dr. Offit discusses reasons behind the anti-vaccine movement and the unintended results. He says there has been misinformation about vaccines which creates unwarranted fear in parents. He hopes his book will relieve those fears and help parents understand the risk and benefits of vaccinating their children. More information about vaccinations is available through the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia at vaccine.chop.edu.
March 14, 2011 · Dallas-based author, S.C. Gwynne has written a fascinating profile of the charismatic Comanche leader Quanah Parker. His mother, Cynthia Ann Parker was kidnapped by a band of Comanche Indians in 1836. Over time Cynthia became a part of the tribe and married a powerful Comanche Chief. Gwynne says he was inspired to write this history because her story is well known in the Texas panhandle and beyond. Quanah Parker was the last and greatest Comanche Chief. After the defeat of the Comanches, Quanah became the wealthiest and most influential of all reservation Indians. He befriended Theodore Roosevelt and even rode in Roosevelt’s inaugural parade. S.C. Gwynne is an award-winning journalist whose work has appeared in Time Magazine, The New York Times, Harper’s, and Texas Monthly.
A Double Life: Discovering Motherhood by Lisa Catherine Harper
March 14, 2011 · According to Lisa Catherine Harper, motherhood divides a woman’s life forever into a before and an after. The book’s press release says that “Harper documents her own journey across journey across the divide as a seasoned explorer might, observing, researching, relating anecdotes and critical information… It shows how motherhood transforms the female body, hijacks a woman’s mind, and splits her life in tow, creating an identity both brand new and as old as time.” In the interview, Harper says other mothers told her what to expect from pregnancy, but no one told her that the experience would turn out to be so fascinating. She hopes readers will appreciate her personal observations and experiences as well as the scientific research she shares about pregnancy. More information is available at lisacatherineharper.com.
March 7, 2011 · It is human nature to wonder “What if?” In this novel, Ellen Meister explores what happens when a mother’s love is put to the ultimate test.
The central character of the book, Quinn Braverman, knows that a portal exists that can take her between parallel lives. In her alternate life, she married a different man. On the surface, one life is more glamorous than the other. In one life, her mother is still alive; in the other, she is not.
The portal between these two worlds is closing, and Quinn must make a decision about where she will spend the rest of her life. The novel raises questions about destiny, fate and the consequences of choice.
Ellen Meister discusses the inspiration for the book and what she hopes readers will take away from it. More information is available at ellenmeister.com.
March 7, 2011 · Orson Scott Card is perhaps best known for Ender’s Game and the series of books that followed.
In The Lost Gate, the first book of a new trilogy, Card introduces a new story of exiled mages from another world. The book puts a new twist on mythic gods from multiple cultures.
The story centers on Danny North, a gate mage, who must come to grips with his forbidden power while learning what it means to grow up and take responsibility for his actions.
The book, while about a young man growing up in unusual circumstances, is aimed for an adult audience. More information is available at hatrack.com and goodreads.com.
The New Cool: A Visionary Teacher, His FIRST Robotics Team, and the Ultimate Battle of Smarts by Neal Bascomb
March 7, 2011 · San Antonio recently hosted its first annual FIRST Robotics Team Competition. In this timely discussion with Neal Bascomb, the author provides background on the FIRST Robotics Competition and its value as an educational activity.
In the book, he follows a team of high school students and their teacher through preparing for and entering into competition. Bascomb says the book reads like an inspiring “sports” story. He believes readers will find themselves rooting for the team as they overcome internal challenges to become competitors.
White Wash: The Disturbing Truth about Cow's Milk and Your Health by Dr. Joseph Keon
February 28, 2011 · When Dr. Joseph Keon saw reports that American’s have a high rate of osteoporosis while at the same time consuming more milk than people of other nations, he knew something didn’t add up. His research demonstrates that other nations with low milk consumption also have low rates of osteoporosis.
In this interview, Dr. Keon discusses why contrary to popular belief, relying on the milk of a different species is not helping develop strong bones. Instead, it may increase the risk of a number of serious diseases including prostate, breast and ovarian cancer.
Keon doesn’t expect Americans to give up milk, but he wants to make sure people understand the health risks. Dr. Joseph Keon has been a wellness consultant, nutrition and fitness expert for over 25 years. He is considered a leading authority on public health and has written three health related books. More information is available at whitewashthebook.com.
Hey Buddy: In Pursuit of Buddy Holly, My New Buddy John, and My Lost Decade of Music by Gary W. Moore
February 28, 2011 · Gary Moore was born in 1954, but was not a fan of rock music. He knew nothing about Buddy Holly until he attended a Holly tribute concert in 2010. Afterwards he was astonished to discover afterwards that thousands of people are dedicated fans of the young musician from Lubbock, Texas.
The book chronicles Moore’s journey of discovery into what made Holly so appealing, his influence on other musicians and why his music remains timeless. As a result of his search to learn more about Buddy Holly, Moore has joined the ranks of Holly fans and shares and what he learned about Holly’s life and death along the way. He also discusses the uncanny resemblance Tribute performer John Mueller bears to Buddy Holly. More information is available at heybuddybook.com.
February 21, 2011 · Susan Maushart talks with host Dan Skinner about The Winter of Our Disconnect: How Three Totally Wired Teenagers (And a Mother Who Sleeps with Her iPhone) Pulled the Plug on Technology and Lived to Tell the Tale. Maushart says concern for her children drove her to make the break from technology. For the first two weeks, they had no electricity at all. Then, radio and music were allowed, but no "screen-based" entertainment or communication was used in the home for six months. The family relearned how to interact as a family, playing board games and rediscovering the joy of playing musical instruments. The disconnect experience brought them closer as a family. Maushart also offers advice for others who want to pull the plug on technology. More information is available at susanmaushart.com.
Uncle Al Capone: The Untold Story from Inside the Family by Deirdre Marie Capone
February 21, 2011 · Deirdre Marie Capone talks with host Dan Skinner about Uncle Al Capone: The Untold Story from Inside the Family. The book is a biography and memoir by the grand-niece of Al Capone, the last living member of the family to be born with the Capone name. She shares her memories of "Uncle Al" and what it was like growing up in the shadow of the infamous Chicago gangster. Due to the Capone name, she was ostracized by schoolmates as a child. She was fired from jobs as an adult when her relationship to Al Capone was discovered. Unlike any other book written about Al Capone, Deirdre takes readers inside the Capone home for new insights into the man who was public enemy #1. She also discusses evidence that Al Capone was framed for the St. Valentine's Day Massacre. More information is available at unclealcapone.com.
February 14, 2011 · Sarah Blake talks with host Dan Skinner about her novel The Postmistress. The story is set in WWII and centers on the lives of two women. Frankie Bard is a beautiful young radio reporter in London, covering the Blitz with Edward R. Murrow. Iris James is a dedicated postmistress in Franklin, Massachusetts. The two are entrusted to deliver letters from a man to his new bride. Both decide not to do so. Both of their lives are impacted by secrets told and secrets kept. Sarah Blake discusses the novel and the research that went into recreating the time period.
Practical Wisdom: The Right Way to Do the Right Thing by Kenneth Sharpe
February 14, 2011 · Kenneth Sharpe talks with host Dan Skinner about Practical Wisdom: The Right Way to Do the Right Thing. Inspired by Aristotle, Sharpe co-authored the book about ethical decision making with fellow Swarthmore professor Barry Schwartz. Sharpe explains the meaning of practical wisdom and the role corporate culture plays in creating an environment that supports ethical decisions. The book profiles “Canny Outlaws” who are finding ways to exercise wisdom in organizations that actively discourage flexibility, adaptability, and creativity.
Barry Schwartz provides more information in his TED Talk.
The America’s Test Kitchen Healthy Family Cookbook by Julia Collin Davison, editor
February 7, 2011 ·Julia Collin Davison is the executive food editor for the cookbook division of America’s Test Kitchen. Their new cookbook contains 800 healthy everyday recipes developed over a two years of research. Davison describes the Test Kitchen’s process for testing the recipes, tweaking and tasting them over and over to create food that is both healthy and retains great flavor. The book contains practical advice about kitchen utensils, cooking techniques that have been tested and refined by the staff of America’s Test Kitchen.
All Is Forgotten, Nothing Is Lost by Lee Samantha Chang
February 7, 2011 · Lee Samantha Chang talks with host Dan Skinner about her novel dealing with friendship and her role as a writer mentoring writers. In addition to being a novelist, Chang is the director of the Iowa Writer’s Workshop, the most prestigious writing program in the nation. She discusses the complexities of nurturing writers and what drives writers to pursue the craft.
January 31, 2011 · Hugh Hemphill, Director of the Texas Transportation Museum, discusses the history of transportation in San Antonio with host Dan Skinner . He traces the city’s progress from mule carts to bicycles to horseless carriages. Hemphill discusses how electric cars and hybrids were popular when cars first came on the scene, so what is old is new again. He also explains how the automobile reshaped the city as streets were straightened and widened to accommodate traffic. More information is available at txtransportationmuseum.org.
January 31, 2011 · Ornithologist Les Beletsky talks with host Dan Skinner about the work that went into creating Bird Songs Bible: The Complete, Illustrated Reference for North American Birds and shares examples. In addition to the text and illustrations, it also contains an audio player with bird songs from the collection at Cornell University. Beletsky notes that some bird songs have not yet been recorded because the birds remain inaccessible. A highlight of the volume is that contains the bird song of the Ivory-billed Woodpecker which is now believed to be extinct.
January 24, 2011 · Jim Peyton talks with host Dan Skinner about the evolution of Tex-Mex cooking and how it differs from other styles of Mexican cuisine. His cookbook gives readers the ability to recreate their favorite restaurant combination plates with high quality ingredients. The book also provides some historical background which he hopes will increase the reader’s appreciation of the recipes. Peyton says Tex-Mex food is unfairly given a bad reputation when it is not prepared properly. More information is available at lomexicano.com.
January 24, 2011 · Maira Kalman is an author and illustrator. Her illustrations can be found in a wide variety of publications from her own children’s books to The Elements of Style by Strunk and White. This illustrated book grew out of a series of essays she wrote for The New Yorker online. She describes the book as “a year- long investigation… a loving look at American history and the state of American now… with a big dose of humor and some irreverence.” More information is at mairakalman.com.
The Railroads of San Antonio and South Central Texas by Hugh Hemphill
January17, 2011 · Hugh Hemphill talks with Dan Skinner about the economic impact of railroads on early San Antonio and how it drove the city’s growth. Hemphill notes that railroads still have a major impact on the city as an economical and ecologically sound transporter of freight, and a factor in the decision making process of companies locating in San Antonio. Hemphill, director of the Texas Transportation Museum, says the book grew out of his work for an online project about railroads for the museum. More information about the museum is available at txtransportationmuseum.org More information about the book is available at maverickpub.com.
January 17, 2011 · Joanne Chang talks with Dan Skinner about Flour: Spectacular Recipes from Boston’s Flour Baker + Café. Chang graduated from Harvard with a degree in applied mathematics, but her love of cooking ultimately shaped her career. She shares recipes used at her four Flour Bakery locations Boston. She also relates how her Sticky Sticky Buns defeated Bobby Flay on his show Throwdown. More information is available at flourbakery.com.
Texas Hollywood: Filmmaking in San Antonio Since 1910 by Frank Thompson
January 10, 2011 · California-based film historian Frank Thompson talks with Dan Skinner about Texas Hollywood: Filmmaking in San Antonio Since 1910. Thompson says early filmmakers were attracted to the Alamo City’s abundant sunshine. Over time movie producers have been attracted to the areas varied countryside, interesting architecture, rich history, and a pool of talented people. In addition to many films about The Alamo, the shrine has also served as a backdrop in many movies. Films like Viva Max provide today’s viewers with a “time capsule” of San Antonio in the 1960’s.
The Tin Ticket: The Heroic Journey of Australia's Convict Women by Deborah J. Swiss
January 10, 2011 · Deborah J. Swiss talks with Dan Skinner about aThe Tin Ticket: The Heroic Journey of Australia’s Convict Women. We know that Australia was originally populated by male convicts from Great Britain, but less is know about the female convicts who were sent there to populate the island nation. Nearly 25,000 women were ship to Australia, sometimes for petty offenses. The book follows the lives of three convict women and a radical Quaker reformer who sought to improve the conditions of the prisoners. More information is available at deborahswiss.com.
River Walk: The Epic Story of San Antonio's River by Lewis Fisher
January 3, 2011 · Lewis Fisher discusses the history of San Antonio’s River. The city was founded around the river and over time has been protected and nurtured by citizens. The flow and course of the river was changed to protect against flooding, to create a park, and give birth to a signature tourist attraction which now attracts over five million visitors each year. The book is filled with pictures that demonstrate how the river has evolved over time. More information is available at maverickpub.accountsupport.com/store/product30.html.
Hide And Seek: Reclaiming Childhood's Lost Potential by Ditta Oliker
January 3, 2011 · Clinical psychologist Ditta Oliker talks with Dan Skinner about how childhood survival behaviors can carry over into adulthood and sometime result in self sabotaging behavior. Oliker give examples of how to identify problems and the discusses the difficult task of working through them to free yourself from childhood patterns which then enables you to make better informed decisions. More information is available at dittaolikerphd.com.
December 27, 2010 · Wes Marshall talks with Dan Skinner about the history of winemaking in Texas, the growth of wineries, and wine tourism. His book provides information about the state's wineries and his thoughts on the wine produced at each. Wes Marshall writes a column in the Austin Chronicle. He's also a special contributor to the Dallas Morning News, and also writes for Wine & Spirits, The Wine Enthusiast,Imbibe, and Wines & Vines. More information is available at wesonwine.blogspot.com.
December 27, 2010 · When Karen Morgan was diagnosed with Celiac Disease, she found her food options limited and distasteful, so she set out on a quest to create gluten-free dessert options that are delicious and attractive. Her efforts have resulted in a new cookbook that has been well received. Morgan discusses Celiac Disease, how the recipes were developed and the advantages of eating a gluten free diet. More information is available at blackbird-bakery.com.
December 20, 2010 · J.W. Rinzler, is an executive editor for Lucas Film and has written several books about Star Wars. In his latest book, The Sounds of Star Wars, he presents profiles of sound designer Ben Burtt and director George Lucas, and then delves into the history of the sound effects created for the Star Wars saga. The book features many production photos and has a sound module so that readers can hear the sounds being described. Rinzler tells the stories behind the creation of Darth Vader’s breathing, R2D2’s voice, the light saber, Jawa language and more. He also discusses why sound effects work better when they are grounded in organic sound. chroniclebooks.com/soundsofstarwars.
December 20, 2010 · Travis E. Poling and co-author Paul W. Hightower's book is a guide to nearly three dozen breweries, microbreweries, and brewpubs across Texas. The book also provides information about the wide variety of beer styles available in the state. Travis Poling talks about the history of beer in Texas, the recent Craft Beer Movement and shares his thoughts about the future of beer making in the Lone Star State. More information is available at beeracrosstexas.com.
December 13, 2010 · Patricia Cornwell continues her highly successful Kay Scarpetta series with Port Mortuary. She shares how she developed her interest in forensic science, which led to her career as an author. She also discusses the plotline of the book and the research that went into developing the story. Through the military focus of this novel, set in part at Port Mortuary at Dover Air Force Base, she gained a greater appreciation for the Armed Forces and has launched an “America for Vets” national campaign. More information is available at patriciacornwell.com.
December 13, 2010 · In My Imaginary Illness: A Journey into Uncertainty and Prejudice in Medical Diagnosis, Chloe G. K. Atkins tells about her long battle to regain her health. At age 21, she began suffering from a mysterious condition that doctors deemed to be psychosomatic and which caused her to become quadriplegic. After 15 years, she was correctly diagnosed with atypical myasthenia gravis and began receiving ongoing treatment that has allowed her to regain her mobility. Atkins shares what she learned through the experience. More information is available at chloegkatkins.com.
December 6, 2010 · Best-selling nonfiction author Alex Kershaw tells the story of Swedish diplomat Raoul Wallenberg in The Envoy: The Epic Rescue of the Last Jews of Europe in the Desperate Closing Months of WWII. Wallenberg risked his own life to negotiate freedom and arrange safe passage for more than 100,000 Jewish men, women and children over a six month period in Budapest. Kershaw refers to Wallenberg as the greatest hero of the Holocaust, yet we know little about him. Although he saved many people, he was ultimately unable to save himself. He was last know to have been detained in a Soviet gulag and was never seen again. More information is available at alexkershaw.com.
December 6, 2010 · Novelist Kathy Reichs talks about how her series of books about forensic anthropologist Temperance Brennan inspired the television show Bones. She discusses her latest book, Virals, the first in a new series of novels for young adults featuring the Torey Brennan, the grand niece of Temperance Brennan. In addition to be great stories, Reichs hopes that young adults and girls in particular will be inspired to study science and pursue careers in science. More information is available at kathyreichs.com.
November 29, 2010 · W. Bruce Cameron’s A Dog’s Purpose is a New York Times best seller. The novel is about a dog named Baily that finds himself reincarnated over the years as various types of dogs in a search for his reason for being. Cameron believes the book has struck a chord with readers because it strives to tell the story of what it is like to be a dog and how dogs relate to humans. Baily is not a “magic” dog with the thought process of a human, but instead he is a real dog with limited understanding of human speech and he must learn how to deal with people through physical interaction. More information is available at brucecameron.com.
November 29, 2010 · Barney Saltzberg is the author of over 30 books for children. His latest, Beautiful Oops! is a picture book for the child in all of us. In an entertaining way, the book deals with the creative potential in embracing our mistakes. Saltzberg discusses why he believes our education system doesn’t take advantage of encouraging students to explore and make mistakes as part of the learning process. Instead of immediately discarding our mistakes, he believes that we can use that experience to find new ways at looking at life and art. More information is available at barneysaltzberg.com.
December 27, 2010 · Wes Marshall talks with Dan Skinner about the history of winemaking in Texas, the growth of wineries, and wine tourism. His book provides information about the state's wineries and his thoughts on the wine produced at each. Wes Marshall writes a column in the Austin Chronicle. He's also a special contributor to the Dallas Morning News, and also writes for Wine & Spirits, The Wine Enthusiast,Imbibe, and Wines & Vines. More information is available at wesonwine.blogspot.com.
December 27, 2010 · When Karen Morgan was diagnosed with Celiac Disease, she found her food options limited and distasteful, so she set out on a quest to create gluten-free dessert options that are delicious and attractive. Her efforts have resulted in a new cookbook that has been well received. Morgan discusses Celiac Disease, how the recipes were developed and the advantages of eating a gluten free diet. More information is available at blackbird-bakery.com.
December 20, 2010 · J.W. Rinzler, is an executive editor for Lucas Film and has written several books about Star Wars. In his latest book, The Sounds of Star Wars, he presents profiles of sound designer Ben Burtt and director George Lucas, and then delves into the history of the sound effects created for the Star Wars saga. The book features many production photos and has a sound module so that readers can hear the sounds being described. Rinzler tells the stories behind the creation of Darth Vader’s breathing, R2D2’s voice, the light saber, Jawa language and more. He also discusses why sound effects work better when they are grounded in organic sound. chroniclebooks.com/soundsofstarwars.
December 20, 2010 · Travis E. Poling and co-author Paul W. Hightower's book is a guide to nearly three dozen breweries, microbreweries, and brewpubs across Texas. The book also provides information about the wide variety of beer styles available in the state. Travis Poling talks about the history of beer in Texas, the recent Craft Beer Movement and shares his thoughts about the future of beer making in the Lone Star State. More information is available at beeracrosstexas.com.
December 13, 2010 · Patricia Cornwell continues her highly successful Kay Scarpetta series with Port Mortuary. She shares how she developed her interest in forensic science, which led to her career as an author. She also discusses the plotline of the book and the research that went into developing the story. Through the military focus of this novel, set in part at Port Mortuary at Dover Air Force Base, she gained a greater appreciation for the Armed Forces and has launched an “America for Vets” national campaign. More information is available at patriciacornwell.com.
December 13, 2010 · In My Imaginary Illness: A Journey into Uncertainty and Prejudice in Medical Diagnosis, Chloe G. K. Atkins tells about her long battle to regain her health. At age 21, she began suffering from a mysterious condition that doctors deemed to be psychosomatic and which caused her to become quadriplegic. After 15 years, she was correctly diagnosed with atypical myasthenia gravis and began receiving ongoing treatment that has allowed her to regain her mobility. Atkins shares what she learned through the experience. More information is available at chloegkatkins.com.
December 6, 2010 · Best-selling nonfiction author Alex Kershaw tells the story of Swedish diplomat Raoul Wallenberg in The Envoy: The Epic Rescue of the Last Jews of Europe in the Desperate Closing Months of WWII. Wallenberg risked his own life to negotiate freedom and arrange safe passage for more than 100,000 Jewish men, women and children over a six month period in Budapest. Kershaw refers to Wallenberg as the greatest hero of the Holocaust, yet we know little about him. Although he saved many people, he was ultimately unable to save himself. He was last know to have been detained in a Soviet gulag and was never seen again. More information is available at alexkershaw.com.
December 6, 2010 · Novelist Kathy Reichs talks about how her series of books about forensic anthropologist Temperance Brennan inspired the television show Bones. She discusses her latest book, Virals, the first in a new series of novels for young adults featuring the Torey Brennan, the grand niece of Temperance Brennan. In addition to be great stories, Reichs hopes that young adults and girls in particular will be inspired to study science and pursue careers in science. More information is available at kathyreichs.com.
November 29, 2010 · W. Bruce Cameron’s A Dog’s Purpose is a New York Times best seller. The novel is about a dog named Baily that finds himself reincarnated over the years as various types of dogs in a search for his reason for being. Cameron believes the book has struck a chord with readers because it strives to tell the story of what it is like to be a dog and how dogs relate to humans. Baily is not a “magic” dog with the thought process of a human, but instead he is a real dog with limited understanding of human speech and he must learn how to deal with people through physical interaction. More information is available at brucecameron.com.
November 29, 2010 · Barney Saltzberg is the author of over 30 books for children. His latest, Beautiful Oops! is a picture book for the child in all of us. In an entertaining way, the book deals with the creative potential in embracing our mistakes. Saltzberg discusses why he believes our education system doesn’t take advantage of encouraging students to explore and make mistakes as part of the learning process. Instead of immediately discarding our mistakes, he believes that we can use that experience to find new ways at looking at life and art. More information is available at barneysaltzberg.com.
November 15, 2010 · When Jay Varner returned to his small hometown to work for the local newspaper, he knew he would eventually have to confront his childhood memories. In Nothing Left To Burn, Varner relates how three generations of men have been bound together by fire. Varner covers the fire beat for the local newspaper, his father was a fire fighter and his grandfather was an arsonist. Varner talks about how fire shaped the family dynamic and how facing his past has helped him to better understand his father and grandfather. More information is available at jayvarner.com.
Missing Lucile: Memories of a Grandmother I Never Knew by Suzanne Berne
November 15, 2010 · Suzanne Berne's father lost his mother at the age of six. It had a profound effect on him and his future family. Berne set about writing the book to fill in a space in her family album that has been empty for nearly eighty years, and reintroduce her father to his mother. Berne talks about what she learned about her grandmother, her father and herself through the process. She says a person is never really gone if a family member still wonders about them.
November 8, 2010 · With 26 books in print, including Pillars of the Earth and World Without End, Ken Follett has been recognized as one of the two most popular writers in the world. His latest, Fall of Giants, is book one of the Century Trilogy. The novel follows the lives of five intertwined families beginning in WWI. The trilogy will follow the family through the Cold War. Follett discusses the book and how he strives for historical accuracy in his fiction. He also talks about the pros and cons of seeing his books translated to film. More information is available at ken-follett.com.
National Geographic Simply Beautiful Photographs by Annie Griffiths
November 8, 2010 · National Geographic Simply Beautiful Photographs is a collection of pictures drawn from National Geographic archives. Photographer Annie Griffiths talks with Dan Skinner about the art and technique of creating the images illustrated in the collection. The pictures are accompanied by text that explains the elements of light, composition and movement and how they combine to create visual magic. The book showcases the work of more than 100 renowned photographers. More information is available at nationalgeographic.com.
Bloody Crimes: The Chase for Jefferson Davis and the Death Pageant for Lincoln's Corpse by James Swanson
November 1, 2010 · Historian James Swanson talks with Dan Skinner about his latest book, Bloody Crimes: The Chase for Jefferson Davis and the Death Pageant for Lincoln's Corpse. The book picks up where his previous book, Manhunt: The 12-Day Chase for Lincoln's Killer, leaves off. Jefferson Davis was blamed as a conspirator in the death of Lincoln and a reward was placed on his head. Unparalleled in United States history, the Lincoln railroad funeral procession spanned 1,600 miles and millions viewed his body. More information is available at jameslswanson.com
November 1, 2010 · With 400 pages and 1,500 images, the Lost Encyclopedia is a comprehensive guide to the characters, items, locations, plotlines, relationships, and mythologies from all six seasons of the landmark series. Tara Bennett talks with Dan Skinner about how the book is organized and some of the information fans will find inside. Staying true to the spirit of the television series the book provides lots of details and provides some clarification but avoids answering the "big questions." As the executive producers write in the books intro, there is a reason the show is called Lost. More information at "Notes from Island: Paul and Terry Get Lost."
The Mental Floss History of the United States by Eric Sass
October 25, 2010 · Eric Sass talks with host Dan Skinner about the The Mental Floss History of the United States: The (Almost) Complete and (Entirely) Entertaining Story of America. In the introduction to his latest book, Eric Sass notes that while Americans may be patriotic, it doesn't mean they know their nation's history. So, the author set out to create the history book you wish you would have had in school. With detailed outlines, charts and "by the numbers" rounds ups, and trivia, the book explores the myths of history and sets the historical record straight. More information is available at mentalfloss.com.
October 25, 2010 · Dan Skinner talks with Dr. Robert Butler about The Longevity Prescription: The Eight Proven Keys to a Long, Healthy Life. Among other keys, Dr. Butler discusses why relationships and connections to the community help prolong life. The book offers an assessment tool and step-by-step plans to improve health by keeping the aging body vital and active.
Note: Two days after this interview was recorded, Dr. Butler passed away at the age of 83 on July 4th, 2010. Dr. Butler was the President and CEO of the International Longevity Center-USA and a Professor at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health. More information is available at ilcusa.org.
October 18, 2010 · Dan Skinner talks with Toni DiTerlizzi about his children's novel, The Search for Wondla. It's the first illustrated youth novel that includes an augmented reality component when combined with a computer. The book honors traditional children's literature with a space age twist, combining an adventure on an alien planet with a child's wish to belong. The author discusses the fantasy story line and how the imaginative creature illustrations demonstrate his love of nature. DiTerlizzi is also the co-creator and illustrator of the Spiderwick Chronicles. More information is available at wondla.com and diterlizzi.com.
Unhinged: The Trouble with Psychiatry by Dr. Daniel Carlat
October 18, 2010 · Dan Skinner talks with Dr. Daniel Carlat about Unhinged: The Trouble with Psychiatry — A Doctor's Revelations about a Profession in Crisis. Dr. Carlat believes the shift from talk therapy to drug therapy results in treating symptoms instead of finding causes. He talks about the good and bad influences that drug companies have on his profession and also discusses his ideas about "supportive therapy" as a better approach to treating patients.
Southern Pies: A Gracious Plenty of Pie Recipes, from Lemon Chess to Chocolate Pecan by Nancie McDermott
October 11, 2010 · Dan Skinner talks with author and cooking teacher Nancie McDermott about Southern Pies: A Gracious Plenty of Pie Recipes, from Lemon Chess to Chocolate Pecan. McDermott talks about the sweet, rich history behind the deserts, including George Washington Carver's recipe for sweet potato pie. The book contains 60 recipes for both old-school and new-fangled pies for bakers of all skill levels. More information is available at nanciemcdermott.com.
Jung the Mystic: The Esoteric Dimensions of Carl Jung's Life and Teachings by Gary Lachman
October 11, 2010 · Gary Lachman was a founding member of the rock group Blondie. Since leaving the group, Lachman has become a respected author about philosophy. Dan Skinner talks with Lachman about his book, Jung the Mystic: The Esoteric Dimensions of Carl Jung's Life and Teachings. Jung downplayed his interest and theories about after-death survival, clairvoyance, and synchronicity so that his work in mainstream psychiatry would be taken seriously. However his esoteric beliefs have gained him popularity in today's alternative spiritual culture.
October 4, 2010 · Playfully packaged inside a potato chip bag, the Potato Chip Science kit features a book outlining 29 experiments plus additional pieces and parts needed to carry out the scientific investigations. Most of the experiments can be done by children on their own, but some carry the notice that parents must "chip" in. Allen Kurzweil wrote the book in "partnerchip" with his son Max. More information is available at potatochipscience.com.
October 4, 2010 · Dr. Ken Kosik talks with Dan Skinner about how Alzheimer's disease is currently treated and why he believes there are better approaches. He believes a team approach can better serve patients by dispersing care throughout the community, rather than depending solely on the medical community. He proposes the creation of community centers to help patients and their families. More information is available at alzheimersolution.com.
September 27, 2010 · Tom Hugdens talks with Dan Skinner about how his cookbook grew out of his experiences at the Deep Springs College Community. The all-male, two-year college is set on a working ranch and has only 24 students. The students work the land to raise the cattle and crops to feed themselves. Hugdens' book celebrates cooking as our most fundamental connection to nature. More information is available at tomhudgens.com.
Anti-Cancer: A New Way of Life by Dr. David Servan-Schriebner
September 27, 2010 · Dr. David Servan-Schriebner was testing a brain scan machine when he discovered he had a brain tumor. After going through surgery and chemo therapy, he found the answers he was given by his doctors about cancer prevention to be inadequate. In this book, he shares his research on cancer prevention as well as his personal story. More information is available at anticancerbook.com.
September 20, 2010 · Dr. Michelle Anthony talks with Dan Skinner about bullying and how to talk with your elementary school aged girls about problems they may be having in their relationships with other children. The four-step process she suggests is designed to help children discuss their situations and develop a plan to handle unwanted behavior. She also discusses what to do if your child is the one engaging in bullying. More information is available at littlegirlscanbemean.com.
September 20, 2010 · Dan Burnstein is an award-winning journalist and author of thirteen books on global economics, technology and popular culture. He has also become recognized as an expert on the fiction of Dan Brown, with best-selling books about the facts behind Brown's writing. This latest book brings together a collection of scientists, historians and other experts to explore and comment on various aspects of The Lost Symbol. More information is available at secretsofthecode.com.
September 13, 2010 · Eben Weiss is a serious cyclist, but he doesn't take himself or cycling seriously. Weiss objects to the notion of a "bike culture" and considers the term a bit elitist. His book provides a brief introduction to bicycle history, but he spends most of the book taking a humorous look at subsets of cyclists including messengers, roadies, road racers, urban cyclers and contraption captains. More information is available at bikesnobnyc.blogspot.com.
September 13, 2010 · Journalist Rick Bowers talks with Dan Skinner about how twelve of the most powerful men in Mississippi controlled a secretive network of spies and informants with the goal of defeating efforts of the Civil Rights movement. The story begins in 1956 with the formation of the Mississippi State Sovereignty Commission and chronicles the group's propaganda, espionage and dirty tricks.
September 6, 2010 · New York Times best-selling author Tana French discusses her latest novel Faithful Place. The Dublin Murder Squad series is unique in that the major character in each book was only a minor character in the proceeding book. French, who lives in Dublin, explains how she combined history and fiction to create her novel. She also talks about how her training as an actress helps her create characters for her stories. More information is available at tanafrench.com.
Things I Wish I Had Taught My Son… And Still Can by Jesus Ramirez
September 6, 2010 · Jesus Ramirez talks about how he starting writing emails to his son after he left home for college. The inspirational messages were designed to give him life advice, from the practical to the spiritual. Soon others learned of his emails and wanted to share them with their children or to read for themselves. Some started printing them out and collecting them in binders, so Ramirez thought creating a book was the next logical step. More information is available at thingsiwishihadtaughtmyson.com.
Tammy Wynette: Tragic Country Queen by Jimmy McDonough
August 30, 2010 · Tammy Wynette's career spanned 25 years, and she scored 17 number one hits in the late 60s and early 70s. She was best known for her hit "Stand by Your Man," but was married five times. She testified on Capital Hill for an anti-drug abuse campaign, while she herself was addicted. Complicated and conflicted, Tammy's life was glorious and tragic. Jimmy McDonough discusses Wynette's life and the research behind the most complete biography written about her to-date. More information is available at jimmymcdonough.net.
August 30, 2010 · Best-selling novelist Sandra Brown discusses her latest novel, Tough Customer. Brown lives in Arlington, Texas, and has written 58 best-selling novels. For the first time in 20 years, this novel features a repeat character by the name of Dodge Hanley. Tough Customer is set in the Big Thicket near Houston. She discusses why she chose this location for the story and why changing technology creates challenges for writers. More information is available at sandrabrown.net.
Packing for Mars: The Curious Science of Life in the Void by Mary Roach
August 23, 2010 · Bestselling science writer Mary Roach shares what she learned about the space program in Packing for Mars: The Curious Science of Life in the Void. Roach talks about the two years she spent researching the book and learning first hand about how weightlessness and other challenges of space travel are researched on earth. Among other stories, she relates how the planting of the US flag on the moon required months of planning, engineering and practice before liftoff. More information is available at maryroach.net.
The Personal History of Rachel DuPree by Ann Weisgarber
August 16, 2010 · Ann Weisgarber's debut novel, The Personal History of Rachel DuPree, is set in 1917 and tells the story of a young African American woman who, along with her husband, is struggling to survive as homesteaders in the South Dakota Badlands. Rachel deals with the challenges of the frontier and her marriage. Weisgarber relates how she became inspired to tell this story and why even though the book is the past, Rachel's experience still speaks to the women of today. The book won the Texas Institute of Letter's award for "Best Work of First Fiction," and has been published in the UK and France in addition to the United States. More information is available at annweisgarber.com.
August 9, 2010 · John Irving is a critically acclaimed author and Oscar-winning screenwriter, best known for The World According to Garp, The Cider House Rules, and A Prayer for Owen Meaney. Dan Skinner talks with John Irving about his best-selling novel, Last Night in Twisted River, which is now available in paperback. Irving discusses the pros and cons of writing a novel versus the screen. He also expresses why he believes the old writer's adage about "writing what you know" is not useful when it comes to writing fiction, nor is the notion about first hand experience necessary for creating authenticity. More information is available at john-irving.com.
August 2, 2010 · Imagine the film Breakfast at Tiffany's without Audrey Hepburn or Henry Mancini's "Moon River." Sam Wasson talks with Dan Skinner about Fifth Avenue, 5 A.M.: Audrey Hepburn, Breakfast at Tiffany's, and The Dawn of the American Woman. Today we consider the movie a light romantic comedy, but when it first came out, it was controversial. Marilyn Monroe refused the lead role and Audrey Hepburn had to be convinced it wouldn't ruin her reputation. The studio also didn't think Henry Mancini was up to the task of writing the music. More information is available at samwasson.com.
July 26, 2010 · Bruce Watson talks with host Dan Skinner about the summer of 1964 the more than 700 American college students that went to Mississippi to register black voters and teach in Freedom Schools. His book Freedom Summer: The Savage Season That Made Mississippi Burn and Made America a Democracy profiles some of those volunteers, shares their memories, and examines how the experience changed their lives and the course of American history. More information is available at brucewatsonwriter.com.
July 26, 2010 · Travel writer Jamie Jensen talks with host Dan Skinner about Road Trip USA: Cross-Country Adventures on America's Two-Lane Highways. The book covers more than 35,000 miles of classic blacktop from the Appalachian Trail to the Oregon Trail. The book outlines 11 road trips designed to take travelers off the beaten path and into the soul of America. Jensen discusses his experiences in Texas, including visiting Lost Maples and Crystal City's statue of Popeye. More information is available at roadtripusa.com.
Farm City: The Education of an Urban Farmer by Novella Carpenter
July 19, 2010 · Novella Carpenter talks with host Dan Skinner about Farm City: The Education of an Urban Farmer. Carpenter describes her parents as back to the land "hippies" who farmed in rural isolation. As an adult, she desired to grow her own food but wanted the social connection of living in a city, so she became an urban farmer. Carpenter humorously shares her adventures and advice about growing crops and raising livestock in the inner city of Oakland. She discovered that predators are still a problem in the city, and that free hog slop can be found by recycling leftover food from restaurants. More information is available at farmcity.wordpress.com.
July 19, 2010 · What does it mean to be a hero? Brad Meltzer, a best-selling author of mysteries and thrillers, set out to write a nonfiction book that would provide true role models for his eight-year-old son. The book describes the defining moments in the lives of 52 men and women that made them heroes. Heroes for My Son profiles well known and lesser known people ranging from Mother Theresa to Officer Frank Shankwitz. It also includes blank pages for people to add their own heroes. More information is available at heroesformyson.com.
July 12, 2010 · Best-selling author Anne Brashares talks with Dan Skinner about her latest novel, My Name is Memory. Brashares is best known as the author of the popular series of young adult novels that started with The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants. This latest novel is a love story written for adult readers. The central character is a man who remembers all of his past lives over a span of a thousand years. In his past lives he falls in love with the same woman, and each time it ends in tragedy. With each new life he seeks her out but she has no memory of him and their past lives. More information is available at annbrashares.com.
Life's Too Short to Fold Fitted Sheets by Lisa Quinn
July 12, 2010 · Lisa Quinn is an Emmy award-winning television host and recovering Marthaholic. She shares her insights and advice in Life's Too Short to Fold Fitted Sheets: Your Ultimate Guide to Domestic Liberation. Quinn tells host Dan Skinner that people need to be realistic about housekeeping and not expect perfection. No place can be perfect if people are living in it. Add children and pets into the mix, and you'll drive yourself crazy if you don't let go of perfectionism. Quinn says she's not advising people to be slobs, just to relax a bit when it comes to housekeeping so that you have time for more important things in life. More information is available at lisaquinninc.com.
Take Good Care of the Garden and Dogs by Heather Lende
July 5, 2010 · Heather Lende talks with host Dan Skinner about her book Take Good Care of the Garden and the Dogs: Family, Friends and Faith in Small-Town Alaska. Lende works for the local newspaper in Haines, Alaska, where she writes obituaries, giving her a unique perspective and connection to the community. She relates her near-death experience of being hit by a truck while riding her bicycle in Haines, having to be airlifted to a hospital in Seattle, and how the community helped her recover. More information is available at heatherlende.com.
July 5, 2010 · William Alexander talks with host Dan Skinner about his book 52 Loaves: One Man's Relentless Pursuit of Truth, Meaning, and a Perfect Crust. The book is Alexander's humorous tale of how he traveled to three continents researching bread and seeking new baking experiences. He shares the challenge of trying to take sour dough yeast through airport security on the way to Normandy to restore a lost 1300-year-old tradition of baking bread at an Abbey. And yes, in the book, he also shares the recipe for the rustic peasant loaf he attempted to bake each week. More information is available at williamalexander.com.
June 28, 2010 · Iris Gomez talks with host Dan Skinner about her novel, Try to Remember, which tells the story of a Columbian family that immigrates to Miami and their struggles with adjusting to a new culture, mental illness and U.S. immigration law. The central character is 15 year old Gabriella, who while trying to fit into her new life, also worries that their Green Card status will be threatened by her father\'s erratic behavior and by her brothers getting into trouble at school. Iris Gomez, an immigration lawyer and poet, whose family came from Columbia, brings her personal experience and legal expertise to the writing of the novel to dramatize the ongoing debate about immigration reform. More information is available at irisgomez.com.
Crazy for the Storm: A Memoir of Survival by Norman Ollestad
June 28, 2010 · In February 1979, Norman Ollestad was the sole survivor of a plane crash that killed the pilot, Norman\'s father and his father\'s girlfriend. The crash took place at 8,200 feet in the San Gabriel Mountains during a blizzard. Crediting his father with teaching him never to give up and pushing him to be a competitive skier and surfer, he made the dangerous journey down the icy mountain alone. Norman was 11 years old. Ollestad talks with host Dan Skinner about the book, Crazy for the Storm, and how he means it more as a tribute to his charismatic father and an examination of their relationship rather than just a story of plane crash. Through reading the book, he hopes others will contemplate their own father-son relationships. More information is available at crazyforthestorm.com.
Immortality and the Law: The Rising Power of the American Dead by Ray D. Madoff
June 21, 2010 · You can't take it with you, but sometimes you can still control it after you\'re gone. Do rights for the dead, infringe on the rights of the living? Host Dan Skinner talks with Boston College Law professor Ray D. Madoff about her book Immortality and the Law: The Rising Power of the American Dead. Madoff discusses how American law allows the deceased to exert control over their property, creative output and publicity rights. However, after death, we don\'t have much control over our bodies or reputations. Madoff discusses why American Law is so strong in this area. More information about Ray D. Madoff is available here.
June 14, 2010 · Most poets start with a blank sheet and create verse. Austin Kleon starts with a page full of words and marks out most of them to create poetry. The Austin, Texas based poet, cartoonist and designer talks with host Dan Skinner about his collection of poetry called Newspaper Blackout. The book also provides the history of the art form, some how-to instructions and samples of winning poetry submitted through Kleon's on-line poetry competition. Additional poems and more information is available at austinkleon.com.
The Last Stand: Custer, Sitting Bull, and the Battle of Little Big Horn by Nathaniel Philbrick
June 14, 2010 · Historian Nathaniel Philbrick talks with host Dan Skinner about The Last Stand: Custer, Sitting Bull, and the Battle of Little Big Horn. Philbrick discusses the iconic battle and the myths surrounding Custer and Sitting Bull. He draws upon new archeological and archival discoveries, plus his own research to give a more accurate picture of what transpired at the Battle of Little Big Horn. Philbrick also discusses the iconic nature of "last stands" including reference to the Alamo. More information is available at nathanielphilbrick.com.
June 7, 2010 · Suzanne Gordon talks with host Dan Skinner about a collection of nursing stories she has compiled in When Chicken Soup Isn't Enough: Stories of Nurses Standing Up for Themselves, Their Patients, and Their Profession, that describe the real world of providing health care. The stories demonstrate the challenges of working within a system that presents many obstacles to quality patient care, including nurse shortages, inadequate funding for nursing education, and poor communication between and within professions. Gordon hopes that readers will take away a better understanding of the nursing profession and problems that have yet to be solved. More information is available at suzannegordon.com.
Christianity: The First Three Thousand Yearsby Diarmaid MacCulloch
June 7, 2010 · Historian Diarmaid MacCulloch talks with host Dan Skinner about Christianity: The First Three Thousand Years. MacCulloch chose the title to indicate that the history prior to Christianity is important to understand the context of the of religion's birth and also to indicate that it still has a long history yet to unfold. The book has been described as the first truly global history that examines the great ideas and personalities of Christianity. MacCulloch also examines how Christianity is currently being expressed in different cultures around the world. You can learn more about MacCulloch and his previous books here.
June 2, 2010 · New York Times food writer, Kim Severson, discusses Spoon Fed: How Eight Cooks Saved My Life. The book profiles eight female chefs and the valuable lessons she learned from each. For example, from Marion Cunningham she learned that in food and in life it is never too late to start over. The book is part profile and part memoir as Severson shares why she needed to learn these lessons from the kitchen. Severson also talks about her journey from reporter to food writer that took her from Michigan to Alaska to New York. More information is available at kimseverson.com.
June 2, 2010 · Host Dan Skinner talks with Susan Senator about The Autism Mom's Survival Guide (for dads, too!). Caring for a child with autism also means taking time to care for your own needs. This survival guide offers insight on how to create a balanced and happy life while raising a child with autism. The book features information and advice from autism parents, researches and professionals. This is Senator's second book on the topic, her first, is entitled "Making Peace with Autism." More information is available at susansenator.com.
May 24, 2010 · Dan Skinner talks with Anne Lamott about her latest novel, Imperfect Birds. This family drama deals with raising a teenage daughter who falls into substance abuse. Rosie is 17 years old, beautiful and intelligent. She is "a good kid," but she succumbs to some of the many temptations facing today's teens. Her mother, Elizabeth, is a recovering alcoholic whose sobriety is threatened from the stress of dealing with her daughter's behavior. Anne Lamott's fiction is a cautionary tale about contemporary society.
May 24, 2010 · Dan Skinner talks with Chef Tal Ronnen about The Conscious Cook: Delicious Meatless Recipes that will Change the Way you Eat. When Tal became a vegan he didn't leave his taste buds behind, so he insists that his dishes are just as delicious as what he enjoyed as a carnivore. He believes a vegan diet is not only good for the person but also good for the environment. Ronnen is a graduate of the Natural Gourmet Institute, has worked in the nation's top vegan restaurants, and has also conducted master workshops on the topic at Le Cordon Bleu College campuses nationwide. More information is available at here.
Letters to Jackie: Condolences from a Grieving Nation by Ellen Fitzpatrick
May 17, 2010 · Dan Skinner talks with Ellen Fitzpatrick about Letters to Jackie: Condolences from a Grieving Nation. Following JFK's assassination, Jackie Kennedy received nearly 1.5 million letters expressing grief and concern. Some of those letters are featured in the book along with some rarely seen photos. The letters represent a wide cross-section of Americans who felt the need to reach out to Jackie. Fitzpatrick, a professor and historian, discusses why JFK's assassination so profoundly touched the nation. More information is available at ellenfitzpatrick.net.
Unlocking the Secrets of Stonehenge by Marc Aronson
May 17, 2010 · Dan Skinner talks with archeologist Mike Parker Pearson about his research at Stonehenge. Inspired by observations made by an archeologist from Madagascar, Pearson's team of archeologists has made major discoveries near Stonehenge that shed new light on the purpose of the structure and how it fits into a larger complex of buildings. His work is chronicled in a National Geographic book for young people, If Stones Could Speak: Unlocking the Secrets of Stonehenge by Marc Aronson.
May 10, 2010 · Dan Skinner talks with Beth Hoffman about Saving CeeCee Honeycutt. Her debut novel quickly became a New York Times best seller. The novel follows the life of a 12-year-old girl in Ohio who has spent her young life dealing with her mother's mental illness and tragic death. She is taken to Savannah, Georgia, by her great-aunt where she meets an interesting cast of characters, develops friendships, and gradually heals. More information is available at bethhoffman.net.
Eternity Soup: Inside the Quest to End Aging by Greg Critser
May 10, 2010 · The search for Immortality has fascinated humanity for ages. Dan Skinner talks with Greg Critser about his book Eternity Soup: Inside The Quest to End Aging. Critser is a science and medical journalist who has written for the LA Times, the Times of London and the New York Times. In his latest book, he examines the sociological impact of a growing elderly population and reviews current research on aging including work being done at the Barshop Institute in San Antonio. Comments from Dr. Steven Austad about research at the Institute are also featured in the interview.
May 5, 2010 · David Baldacci discusses his latest thriller, Deliver Us from Evil. The novel features a returning character named Shaw, who is on the trail of an international criminal going by the name of Evan Waller. Shaw's mission is to prevent Waller from closing his latest deal that would lead to mass murder. Shaw is not the only one looking for Waller, Reggie Campion, an agent for a secret vigilante group is also tracking Waller. Eventually, Reggie and Shaw's missions will collide. Baldacci says the story deals with the negative consequences for the characters even if their intentions are honorable. More information is available at davidbaldacci.com.
May 3, 2010 · Dan Skinner talks with science fiction writer Robert J. Sawyer about the second in his trilogy dealing with an artificial intelligence on the world wide web. Through fiction, WWW:WATCH, explores how an artificial intelligence might emerge and how the public and government might react. Is it a threat or is it benevolent? It is also a "coming of age" story for the three main characters, a teenaged girl, the artificial intelligence and a chimp/bonobo hybrid. Each must make decisions about their character and what they will become. More info is available at sfwriter.com.
April 26, 2010 · Dan Skinner talks with Josh Karp about Straight Down The Middle: Shivas Irons, Bagger Vance, and How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love My Golf Swing. Karp's book is a humorous look at golf and his journey to improve his game through instruction in acting techniques, sword handling, and Zen meditation. Ultimately, Karp credits Zen with allowing him to shave strokes off his handicap. He golfed his way across North America and Scotland to get advice from top notch golf coaches and shares what he learned along the way. More info is available at joshkarpbooks.com
Water: The Epic Struggle for Wealth, Power, and Civilization by Steven Solomon
April 19, 2010 · Dan Skinner talks with Steven Solomon about Water: The Epic Struggle for Wealth, Power, and Civilization. Solomon discusses how the availability of water has shaped humanity from ancient times to today. As freshwater becomes scarcer it is creating a divide in human society and is transforming political landscapes. Solomon discusses problems in the United States and around the world and suggests what we can do to help deal with the issues that face us now and in the future. More information is available at thewaterblog.wordpress.com.
April 12, 2010 · Dan Skinner talks with management guru Tom Peters, author of the classic book on management, In Search of Excellence. In his latest book, The Little Big Things, Peters gives readers 163 ways to pursue excellence. He advises readers to go back to the basics and not underestimate the power of the small details that add up to success. His advice includes putting your staff first and taking care of their needs because an unhappy staff will not provide good customer service. If your staff is having a bad day, your customer will have a bad day. More information is available at tompeters.com.
April 5, 2010 · Ethan Watters talks with host Dan Skinner about his book Crazy Like Us: The Globalization of the American Psyche. America is a leading exporter of many things, including ideas about mental health and how those illnesses should be treated. Watters book examines how our spreading western culture is changing how the world views what is normal and what requires medication. By examining other cultures, that have not yet adopted western treatments, Watters believes we may discover we have more to learn than we have to teach about mental health. More information is available at crazylikeus.com.
March 29, 2010 · Maria Finn talks with host Dan Skinner about her memoir, Hold Me Tight & Tango Me Home. The book is Maria's story of how learning to tango helped her deal with heartache and put her life back in the groove. Learning to tang meant dealing with rejection, criticism and unpredictable dance partners but it also provided her with the opportunity to regain her confidence and pursue a new life.. The book travels from New York to Buenos Aires to explore the culture, history, music and moves of the tango. More information about Maria Finn and her books is available at mariafinn.com.
March 5, 2010 · Award-winning journalist and social critic, David Aaronovitch, talks with host Dan Skinner about Voodoo Histories: The Role of the Conspiracy Theory in Shaping Modern History. The book examines why conspiracy theories develop and the purposes they serve in creating false order out of the chaos of history. From The Protocols of the Elders of Zion to The Da Vinci Code, Aaronvitch traces conspiracy theories back to their true sources and shows how over time fiction oft repeated becomes accepted by some as fact.
February 22, 2010 · Ashley Merryman talks with host Dan Skinner about NurtureShock: New Thinking About Children. Merryman co-authored the book with, and it contains their reporting of new research about childhood development and parenting. Topics covered in the interview include: why certain types of praise as a motivational tool may have the opposite effect: how early sibling relationships predict future adult behavior; how to talk about race issues and why children value aggression as a social tool. More info at www.nurtureshock.com.
Mornings with Mailer: A Recollection of a Friendship by Dwayne Raymond
February 22, 2010 · Dwayne Raymond talks with host Dan Skinner about his memoir, Mornings with Mailer: A Recollection of a Friendship. In 2003, Raymond was waiting tables in Provincetown, Massachusetts to support his writing career. It was there he met Norman Mailer and eventually became Mailer's research assistant. In the final four years of Norman Mailer's life, Dwayne Raymond was Mailer's aide in both professional and personal matters. In his memoir, Raymond presents a loving remembrance of a quirky and complex man whose private life was much different than his public persona. More information about the book is available at the HarperCollins website.
February 22, 2010 · Thomas Cobb talks with host Dan Skinner about how his debut novel Crazy Heart became an Oscar-nominated motion picture. The novel started out as a short story that he wrote while in Houston, Texas. The book was published in 1987 but had gone out of print before it came to the attention of director Scott Cooper. Thanks to the movie, the book is now back in print and enjoying new success. Cobb says the movie is a respectful adaptation of his novel, and although the ending of the movie is not the same as the book, he found the movie version satisfying as well. More information about Cobb and his writing is available at thomascobb.net.
The Power of Two: Surviving Serious Illness with an Attitude and an Advocate by Brian and Gerri Monaghan
February 1, 2010 · Brian and Gerri Monaghan talk with host Dan Skinner about The Power of Two: Surviving Serious Illness with an Attitude and an Advocate. In 1998, attorney Brian Monahan was diagnosed with Stage IV melanoma in his brain and given only a few months to live. This book is an inspirational story of survival filled with advice for others who are dealing with major medical issues. The Monaghan's underscore the importance of having an advocate to watch over the patient and provide tips on how to fulfill that role. More information is available at www.readthepoweroftwo.com.
How Philosophy Can Save Your Life: 10 Ideas That Matter Most by Marietta McCarty
February 1, 2010 · Professor Marietta McCarty talks with host Dan Skinner about How Philosophy Can Save Your Life: 10 Ideas That Matter Most. The book follows her best selling Little Big Minds, which introduced children to philosophy. In this latest book for adults, she explains how exploring philosophy's big ideas in the context of a philosophy club can not only be thought-provoking, but life-changing. She uses prose, poetry, music, drama and documentaries to illustrate and stimulate conversation about each of the "10 Ideas" explored in the book. She also offers advice about starting a philosophy club. More information is available at www.mariettamccarty.com.
February 1, 2010 · Internationally known food and travel writer Colman Andrews talks with host Dan Skinner about The Country Cooking of Ireland. The book captures this culinary spirit of Ireland with more than 225 recipes and over 100 color photographs. Andrews explains that putting food in perspective is part of his approach to writing about food because it is important to understand how the land and the history of the people contribute to the creation of a particular cuisine. He shares stories of how the book was researched and the people he met along the way.
February 1, 2010 · Award winning science fiction author Robert J. Sawyer talks with host Dan Skinner about his latest novel WWW: Wake. He also discusses how one of his previous novels Flash Forward has been adapted for an ABC television series by the same name. Robert J. Sawyer is one of only seven writers in history — and the only Canadian — to win all three of the world's top Science Fiction awards for best novel of the year: the Hugo, the Nebula, and the John W. Campbell Memorial ward. More information about Sawyer and his novels is available at www.sfwriter.com.
MP3 Download
Visit our podcast page to receive Some Books Considered automatically 
Follow Some Books Considered on Twitter@TPRsomebooks
