Books

Arts & Culture

6 exciting new books for 2025: San Diego's top picks

Leslie Gonzalez

San Diego's local booksellers and librarians reveal their most anticipated book releases for 2025 — perfect for fans of mystery, fantasy, nonfiction and more.
There's a new translation of Dante's 'The Divine Comedy.' Why?

Andrew Limbong

Dante Alighieri is one of the pillars of Western literature. And his texts have been translated into English dozens of times. With two new translations of his work out now, it's worth asking – why do we keep returning to this well?
Arts & Culture

Holiday book recommendations from San Diego bookstores

Julianna Domingo

'Tis the season! Local independent bookstores share their favorite reads to give you gift ideas for the reader in your life.
A fire closed a bookstore named Friends to Lovers. Romance readers kept it afloat

Suzanne Nuyen

Jamie Fortin's romance-centric bookstore shut down shortly after its grand opening due to a fire. She says the romance community has been integral in helping her rebuild.
Arts & Culture

5 must-read books of 2024: A mix of fiction, fantasy and flavor

KPBS Staff

From fantasy to food, these five books made waves for our staff this year with their fresh perspectives and compelling narratives.
10 young adult novels you don't have to be young to enjoy

Dhanika Pineda

Whether you're young or young at heart, we have book ideas for you. This year's YA collection, gathered by NPR book critics and staff, includes romance, historical fiction, poetry, fantasy and more.
Arts & Culture

Tijuana poets build community and prepare to publish anthology

Matthew Bowler

Through Noche de Poetas, local writers create a safe space to share their work and honor Tijuana's poetic tradition with a forthcoming anthology.
Health

This cookbook is unlike any other from India. Pass the honeycomb, please!

Diaa Hadid

Omkar Khandekar

In Dalit Kitchens of Marathwada, Shahu Patole pays tribute to a cuisine that has long been considered not worthy of documentation. We interviewed Patole — and are sharing some of his recipes.
KPBS Midday Edition

'Queer': Luca Guadagnino's new film and the evolution of a controversial word

Beth Accomando

From derogatory insult to a symbol of empowerment, the changing meaning of the word "queer" is explored, and "Queer" actor Drew Droege reflects on his journey of embracing it and its cultural impact.
Arts & Culture

San Diego weekend arts events: Poetic and artistic farewells, binational music and holiday highlights

Julia Dixon Evans

This weekend in the arts: "What Goes Up Must Come Down" at The Hill Street Country Club; Jason Magabo Perez's "SDPF2024: Coda"; Welcome Tu Las Californias Festival; Charles Glaubitz; San Diego Dance Theater; plus live music and more.