Books

In defense of fan fiction, and ignoring the 'pretensions of polish'

Fan fiction may not command the same respect as other literary pursuits, but it's a rich mode of expression, says one author who mounts a passionate case for the style.
National

Plot twist: Activists skirt book bans with guerrilla giveaways and pop-up libraries

Tovia Smith

This year is expected to set a record for the number of book bans by public school libraries, so many people are finding creative ways to make banned books available to young readers outside schools.
Economy

It's impossible to fit 'All Things' Ari Shapiro does into this headline

Terry Gross

Shapiro co-hosts All Things Considered, co-stars in a cabaret act with Alan Cumming, and sings with the band Pink Martini. Now, he's written a book, a memoir called The Best Strangers in the World.
Race & Social Justice

'Like a living scrapbook': 'My Powerful Hair' is a celebration of Native culture

Elizabeth Blair

Author Carole Lindstrom follows Caldecott-winning We Are Water Protectors with another children's book featuring Native culture. She says she hopes it helps kids "see themselves in a positive way."
Economy

Private opulence, public squalor: How the U.S. helps the rich and hurts the poor

Dave Davies

Poverty, by America author Matthew Desmond says if the top 1% of Americans paid the taxes they owed, it would raise $175 billion each year: "That is just about enough to pull everyone out of poverty."
Economy

Need a consultant? This book argues hiring one might actually damage your institution

Greg Rosalsky

A new book argues the consulting industry is weakening businesses, harming the government, and distorting the economy.
Race & Social Justice

'Benjamin Banneker and Us' traces generations of descendants of the mathematician

Ericka Taylor

Rachel Jamison Webster learned she is related to Benjamin Banneker at a cousin's wedding. The news was unexpected, not only because of Banneker's place in history but also because the author is white.
Local

'Dust Child' offers fresh, compassionate lens on Vietnam

Beth Accomando

Author Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai will be in San Diego on Tuesday to discuss her new novel about Amerasian children born and abandoned during the Vietnam War.
If you want to up your yogurt game, this Iranian cookbook will show you the whey

Diba Mohtasham

Just in time for the Persian New Year, Homa Dashtaki has published the Yogurt and Whey cookbook -- nearly 100 recipes, old and new, including some surprising ones, like whey cocktails and popsicles.
Economy

'Poverty, By America' shows how the rest of us benefit by keeping others poor

Jennifer Ludden

Pulitzer winner for Evicted Matthew Desmond examines why the U.S. has more poverty than other rich nations. He finds it spends big on social programs, but gives the most to those who need it least.