The Stacks

Today on The Stacks, Brian Goldstone is here to talk about his book, There Is No Place for Us: Working and Homeless in America. The book examines the growing phenomenon of the "working homeless"—people who work full time and still remain unhoused—by following five families in Atlanta over the course of a few years. Goldstone explains how he connected with the families he followed in the book, who officially is counted as homeless, and why he decided to center his book in Atlanta.The Stacks Book Club pick for April is Blessing the Boats: New and Selected Poems 1988–2000 by Lucille Clifton. We will discuss on Wednesday, April 30 with Tiana Clark returning as our guest. You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://www.thestackspodcast.com/2025/4/23/ep-368-brian-goldstone Connect with Brian: Twitter | WebsiteConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 23 April 2025

*Patreon- and Substack-only bonus episode teaser, click here for the full episode*In this episode of The Stacks Unabridged, we are joined once again by author Kiese Laymon, to discuss his first children’s book, City Summer, Country Summer, and the emotional resonance of sports narratives. We also share how we’re staying human in the midst of so much inhumanity.You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://www.thestackspodcast.com/unabridged/2025/4/18/tsu-45-kiese-laymon Connect with Kiese: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | SubscribePurchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 18 April 2025

This week, food and culture writer, Giaae Kwon joins us to discuss her debut book, a collection of essays, I'll Love You Forever: Notes from a K-Pop Fan. We talk about what defines K-pop and the aspects of its fandom: from parasocial relationships to the exoticization of K-pop and its "idols."The Stacks Book Club pick for April is Blessing the Boats: New and Selected Poems 1988–2000 by Lucille Clifton. We will discuss the book on April 30th with Tiana Clark returning as our guest. You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://www.thestackspodcast.com/2025/4/16/ep-367-giaae-kwon Connect with Giaee: Instagram | Twitter | WebsiteConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 16 April 2025

This week, we’re joined by Geri Halliwell-Horner, also known as Ginger Spice from the Spice Girls. She discusses her second installment in the Rosie Frost series, Rosie Frost: Ice on Fire. Determined to learn her family history with Bloodstone, Rosie must discover what she’s really made of as a new danger puts her new home and all she that she loves at risk. Halliwell-Horner also shares her journey from pop music sensation to middle grade novelist, and how her relationship with the phrase, “girl power,” has changed over the years.The Stacks Book Club pick for April is Blessing the Boats: New and Selected Poems 1988–2000 by Lucille Clifton. We will discuss the book on April 30th with Tiana Clark returning as our guest. You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://www.thestackspodcast.com/2025/4/9/ep-366-geri-halliwell-horner Connect with Geri: Instagram | Tiktok  | FacebookConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 9 April 2025

This week, we're kicking off National Poetry Month with poet and essayist Tiana Clark. Tiana's newest collection, Scorched Earth: Poems, explores themes of heartbreak, identity, and radical self-acceptance. In this conversation, Tiana reflects on what it means to be vulnerable in poetry, how she approaches the lyric “I,” and what she looks for when reading other poets’ work.The Stacks Book Club pick for April is Blessing the Boats: New and Selected Poems 1988–2000 by Lucille Clifton. We will discuss the book on April 30th with Tiana Clark returning as our guest. You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2025/4/2/ep-365-tiana-clark Connect with Tiana: Instagram | Website | TwitterConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 2 April 2025

It’s The Stacks Book Club Day, and we’re discussing They Were Her Property: White Women as Slave Owners in the American South by Stephanie E. Jones-Rogers with returning guest Tembe Denton-Hurst. We highlight the moments in the book that really stood out to us, from the brutality to the pervasiveness of slavery, and consider how white women have been protected by—and complicit in—the building of the American economy. We also reflect on the role of academic books and how we engage with them as readers.Be sure to listen to the end of today’s episode to find out what our April book club pick will be.You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2025/3/26/ep-364-they-were-her-property Connect with Tembe: Instagram | Website | TwitterConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 26 March 2025

*Patreon- and Substack-only bonus episode teaser, click here for the full episode*In this episode of The Stacks Unabridged, we’re joined by author and critic Emily St. James to discuss her new book, Woodworking. We explore the recent evolution of anti-trans legislation, what it tells us about the current political moment, and trans rep in pop culture. Plus, Emily offers us her entries into the trans literary canon.You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://www.thestackspodcast.com/unabridged/2025/3/21/tsu-44-emily-st-james Connect with Emily: Instagram | BlueskyConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | SubscribePurchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 21 March 2025

​This week, we’re joined by author Torrey Peters to discuss her new book, Stag Dance: A Novel & Stories, a collection that explores the complexities of desire, identity, and gender. Torrey shares how she freed herself to write after the success of her debut novel, Detransition, Baby, discusses her thoughts on the relationship between gender and genre, and what she finds most exciting about writing trans stories.The Stacks Book Club pick for March is They Were Her Property by Stephanie E. Jones-Rogers. We will discuss the book on March 26th with Tembe Denton-Hurst returning as our guest. You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2025/3/19/ep-363-torrey-peters Connect with Torrey: Instagram | WebsiteConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 19 March 2025

This week, we’re joined by author and journalist Omar El Akkad to discuss his new book, One Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This, which serves as a powerful reckoning with what it means to live in a West that betrays its fundamental values. Omar shares how writing nonfiction compares to his novels, how he anticipates and thinks about potential criticism, and what it means to resist despair in the face of empire.The Stacks Book Club pick for March is They Were Her Property by Stephanie E. Jones-Rogers. We will discuss the book on March 26th with Tembe Denton-Hurst returning as our guest. You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2025/3/12/ep-362-omar-el-akkad Connect with Omar: Instagram | TwitterConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 12 March 2025

This week, we’re joined by Tembe Denton-Hurst, staff writer at New York Magazine’s The Strategist and author of the novel Homebodies. Tembe shares why she thinks it is important to read in community with others, how seeing herself on the page changed her life, and the popular book she can’t stand.The Stacks Book Club pick for March is They Were Her Property by Stephanie E. Jones-Rogers. We will discuss the book on March 26th with Tembe Denton-Hurst returning as our guest. You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2025/3/5/ep-361-tembe-denton-hurst Connect with Tembe: Instagram | Website | TwitterConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 5 March 2025

It’s The Stacks Book Club Day, and we’re unpacking Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov with returning guest Ira Madison III. This literary classic is widely studied, but why? We explore what makes this novel a classic, why it’s still taught today, and what Nabokov wanted readers to take away from his most infamous work.There are spoilers on this episode.Be sure to listen to the end of today’s episode to find out what our March book club pick will be.You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2025/2/26/ep-360-lolita Connect with Ira: Instagram | WebsiteConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 26 February 2025

This week, journalist and activist Rebecca Nagle joins us to discuss her debut book, By the Fire We Carry: The Generations-Long Fight for Justice on Native Land. We discuss her decision to expand her podcast, This Land, into a book, the deliberate erasure of Indigenous people in the United States, and how she approaches the idea of "objectivity" in journalism.The Stacks Book Club pick for February is Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov. We will discuss the book on February 26th with Ira Madison III returning as our guest. You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2025/2/19/ep-359-rebecca-nagle Connect with Rebecca: Instagram | TwitterConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 19 February 2025

*Patreon- and Substack-only bonus episode teaser*In this episode of The Stacks Unabridged, author and ESPN writer David Dennis Jr. joins us to break down Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl halftime show. We get into the performance itself, the layers behind it, and how it fits into his ongoing beef with Drake. Plus, we discuss the reaction to the show and what it says about Kendrick’s place in music and culture.You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://www.thestackspodcast.com/unabridged/2025/2/14/tsu-43-david-dennis-jr Connect with David: Instagram | TwitterConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | SubscribePurchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 14 February 2025

This week, scholar and author Eve L. Ewing joins us to discuss her new book, Original Sins: The (Mis)education of Black and Native Children and the Construction of American Racism. We examine the differences between schooling and education, the purpose of schools and how their design perpetuates inequality, and how we can change them for the better. Eve also shares how her experience as a middle school teacher has shaped her as a writer.The Stacks Book Club pick for February is Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov. We will discuss the book on February 26th with Ira Madison III returning as our guest. You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2025/2/12/ep-358-eve-ewing Connect with Eve: Instagram | Website | TwitterConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 12 February 2025

This week, writer and host of the podcast Keep It!, Ira Madison III joins us to discuss his essay collection, Pure Innocent Fun. We talk about nostalgia, how the book has changed Ira’s identity as a writer, and why he considers literature to be the ultimate form of gossip.The Stacks Book Club pick for February is Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov. We will discuss the book on February 26th with Ira Madison III returning as our guest. You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2025/2/5/ep-357-ira-madison-iii Connect with Ira: Instagram | WebsiteConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 5 February 2025

It’s The Stacks Book Club Day, and we’re diving into The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley with returning guest J Wortham. We explore the book’s layered genres, discuss its most compelling moments, and reflect on the parts that didn’t quite land. Plus, we consider the question: is it possible to unplug from empire?There are spoilers on this episode.Be sure to listen to the end of today’s episode to find out what our February book club pick will be.You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2025/1/29/ep-356-the-ministry-of-time Connect with J: Instagram | TwitterConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 29 January 2025

This week, we're joined by journalist and debut author Michael Waters to discuss his book, The Other Olympians: Fascism, Queerness, and the Making of Modern Sports. We explore the history of gender surveillance and sex testing for athletes, as well as how sports have become the frontier for transgender political battles. Michael also shares his approach to navigating the evolving landscape of language in gender identity.The Stacks Book Club pick for January is The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley. We will discuss the book on January 29th with J Wortham returning as our guest. You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://www.thestackspodcast.com/2025/1/22/ep-355-michael-waters Connect with Michael: Instagram | Twitter | WebsiteConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | SubscribeInclusive Action for the City Fundraiser | Ways to Help with Fire ReliefSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 22 January 2025

In today's special bonus episode, we’re offering some counterprogramming to the inauguration with a discussion of Toni Morrison’s lecture, “Goodness: Altruism and the Literary Imagination.” Saeed Jones joins us to explore Morrison’s thoughts on how goodness sustains itself in the face of evil and what it means to lean into our own goodness as we move into 2025 and beyond.The Stacks Book Club pick for January is The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley. We will discuss the book on January 29th with J Wortham returning as our guest. You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://www.thestackspodcast.com/2025/1/20/bonus-saeed-jones Connect with Saeed: Instagram | Twitter | Bluesky | Threads | Vibe Check | SubstackConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | SubscribeInclusive Action for the City Fundraiser | Ways to Help with Fire ReliefSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 20 January 2025

*Patreon- and Substack-only bonus episode teaser*In this episode of The Stacks Unabridged, Cree Myles (All Ways Black) and Sara Hildreth (Fiction Matters) are back to reflect on 2024 as a year in books and share the titles they’re most excited to read in the first half of 2025. From last year’s standouts to exciting new releases, this conversation is a must-listen for book lovers updating their TBRs.You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://www.thestackspodcast.com/unabridged/2025/1/17/tsu-42-2025-Book-Preview Connect with Cree: Instagram | Twitter | SubstackConnect with Sara: Instagram | Fiction Matters | Novel Pairings | SubstackConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | SubscribePurchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 17 January 2025

This week, we're joined by debut author Kaliane Bradley to discuss her novel, The Ministry of Time, which is The Stacks Book Club pick for January. We talk about how her pandemic obsession inspired this book, how she feels about her novel being called "genre-breaking", and what it was like to land on Obama’s summer reading list.The Stacks Book Club pick for January is The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley. We will discuss the book on January 29th with J Wortham returning as our guest. You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2025/1/15/ep-354-Kaliane-Bradley Connect with Kaliane: WebsiteConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | SubscribeInclusive Action for the City Fundraiser | Ways to Help with Fire ReliefSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 15 January 2025

This week, we're joined by author and educator Irvin Weathersby Jr. to discuss his new book, In Open Contempt: Confronting White Supremacy in Art and Public Space. We delve into the complicated legacy of monuments and art—what they represent, how they uphold systems of white supremacy, and what it takes to envision something new. Irvin also shares how his identity as a “teacher who writes” informs his work and perspective.The Stacks Book Club pick for January is The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley. We will discuss the book on January 29th with J Wortham returning as our guest. You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2025/1/8/ep-353-Irvin-Weathersby Connect with Irvin: Instagram | WebsiteConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | SubscribeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 8 January 2025

Today, we're joined by J Wortham, journalist and culture writer at The New York Times. They are the co-author of Black Futures and a former co-host of the podcast Still Processing. In this conversation, J shares their thoughts on the relationship between reading comprehension and social media, reflects on their evolving relationship with their name, and reveals what they look for in a great book.The Stacks Book Club pick for January is The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley. We will discuss the book on January 29th with J Wortham returning as our guest. You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2025/1/1/ep-352-j-wortham Connect with J: Instagram | TwitterConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 1 January 2025

It’s The Stacks Book Club Day, and we’re diving into Tacky: Love Letters to the Worst Culture We Have to Offer by Rax King with returning guest Nora McInerny. This heartfelt and hilarious essay collection celebrates the pop culture often dismissed as “lowbrow” or “uncool,” exploring how guilty pleasures shape our identities and bring us joy. In this episode, we discuss the meaning of tackiness, share our favorite essays, and reflect on all the ways tackiness relates to criticism.Be sure to listen to the end of today’s episode to find out what our January book club pick will be.You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2024/12/25/ep-351-tacky Connect with Nora: Instagram | Website | SubstackConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 25 December 2024

*Patreon- and Substack-only bonus episode teaser*In this episode of The Stacks Unabridged, we’re closing out 2024 with a lively recap of the year in pop culture. Chelsea Devantez and Sam Sanders join the show to hand out superlatives for this year’s biggest moments—from breakout performances to the villain of the year, and the stories that defined 2024. You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://www.thestackspodcast.com/unabridged/2024/12/20/tsu-41-chelsea-devantez-sam-sanders Connect with Sam: Instagram | Twitter | Into It | Vibe CheckConnect with Chelsea: Instagram | Twitter | Website | Glamorous TrashConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | SubscribePurchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 20 December 2024

It’s time to pick the best books of 2024! Joining me for this year-end celebration are two longtime friends of the show, podcast host Greta Johnsen and MJ Franklin, editor at The New York Times Book Review. In today’s episode, we share our top 10 books of 2024, reflect on the trends that defined this year in reading, and look ahead to the titles we’re most excited for in 2025.The Stacks Book Club pick for December is Tacky by Rax King. We will discuss the book on December 25th with Nora McInerny returning as our guest.You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2024/12/20/ep-350-best-books-of-2024 Connect with MJ: Instagram | TwitterConnect with Greta: Instagram | Twitter Connect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 18 December 2024

This week, we’re joined by Mosab Abu Toha, Palestinian poet, activist, and author of the new collection Forest of Noise. In today’s episode, Mosab shares why he feels compelled to write during the ongoing genocide in Gaza and reflects on the urgent questions his work poses about Palestinian rights. He also discusses the meaning behind his book’s title and what he hopes readers will take away from this moving collection.The Stacks Book Club pick for December is Tacky by Rax King. We will discuss the book on December 25th with Nora McInerny returning as our guest. You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2024/12/11/ep-349-Mosab-Abu-Toha Connect with Mosab: Instagram | Website | TwitterConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 11 December 2024

This week, we’re joined by Nora McInerny—author, podcaster, and founder of the Hot Young Widows Club. In today’s episode, we discuss Nora’s approach to grief and why she rejects the label of “grief person.” She also shares the books about grief that have meant the most to her, as well as the genre that never fails to make her rage.The Stacks Book Club pick for December is Tacky by Rax King. We will discuss the book on December 25th with Nora McInerny returning as our guest. You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2024/12/04/ep-348-nora-mcinerny Connect with Nora: Instagram | Website | SubstackConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 4 December 2024

*Patreon- and Substack-only bonus episode teaser*In this episode of The Stacks Unabridged, Traci wraps up Nonfiction November by pairing audience-submitted books, moods, snacks, TV shows, and songs with 15 nonfiction book recommendations. This episode is packed with fresh titles to add to your TBR and inspire your next great read. You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://www.thestackspodcast.com/unabridged/2024/11/29/tsu-40-nonfiction-book-generator Connect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | SubscribePurchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 29 November 2024

It’s The Stacks Book Club Day, and we’re diving into Luster by Raven Leilani with returning guest Justine Kay of 2 Black Girls, 1 Rose. This darkly funny and provocative novel explores race, desire, and messy human connections through the story of Edie, a young Black woman who becomes entangled with a white family. In today’s episode, we dive into the shifting power dynamics in the story, the relationship between Edie and Akilah, and share our favorite scenes from this critically acclaimed debut.There are spoilers on today's episode.Be sure to listen to the end of today’s episode to find out what our October book club pick will be.You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2024/11/27/ep-347-luster Connect with Justine: Instagram | Twitter | WebsiteConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 27 November 2024

This week, we’re joined by marine biologist and author Ayana Elizabeth Johnson to discuss her new book, What If We Get It Right? Visions of Climate Futurism. Ayana shares her approach to curating a wide range of ideas and solutions for climate action, including her climate action Venn diagram. We also explore why profit hasn’t been enough to drive progress and how American culture creates unique obstacles to tackling the climate crisis.The Stacks Book Club pick for November is Luster by Raven Leilani. We will discuss the book on November 27th with Justine Kay returning as our guest.You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2024/11/20/ep-346-ayana-elizabeth-johnson Connect with Ayana: Twitter | Instagram | Website | SubstackConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 20 November 2024

This week, #1 New York Times bestselling author Jason Reynolds joins us to discuss his latest book, Twenty-Four Seconds from Now . . .: A Love Story. Jason shares why he chose to tell the story of a young Black boy on the brink of a life-changing moment and reflects on vulnerability, intimacy, and the power of connecting with audiences. We also explore Jason’s unique approach to storytelling and what it means to see yourself within the literary canon.The Stacks Book Club pick for November is Luster by Raven Leilani. We will discuss the book on November 27th with Justine Kay returning as our guest.You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2024/11/13/ep-345-Jason-Reynolds Connect with Jason: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 13 November 2024

This week, we’re joined by Justine Kay, one of the hosts of the reality TV show podcast, 2 Black Girls, 1 Rose. We talk about our thoughts and feelings around optimism in the face of political anxieties and how reading has shaped our thinking about what is possible. We also dive into Justine’s newfound love of romance novels and revisit some of our favorite reality TV memories.The Stacks Book Club pick for November is Luster by Raven Leilani. We will discuss the book on November 27th with Justine Kay returning as our guest.You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://www.thestackspodcast.com/2024/11/06/ep-344-justine-kay Connect with Justine: Instagram | Twitter | WebsiteConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 6 November 2024

It’s The Stacks Book Club Day, and we’re diving into The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead. Franklin Leonard returns as our guest to examine this powerful novel set in a brutal Jim Crow-era reform school. In today’s conversation, we discuss the ways Nickel Academy serves as a metaphor for America, exploring themes of good versus evil and the resilience required to confront systemic injustice.There are spoilers on today's episode.Be sure to listen to the end of today’s episode to find out what our November book club pick will be.You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestacks-staging.squarespace.com/2024/10/30/ep-343-the-nickel-boys Connect with Franklin: Instagram | Twitter | WebsiteConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 30 October 2024

Author and activist Jessica Valenti joins The Stacks to discuss her latest book, Abortion: Our Bodies, Their Lies, and the Truths We Use to Win. In today’s conversation, we explore why the left struggles to effectively talk about abortion and the impact of abortion bans on maternal healthcare. Jessica explains the significance of “states' rights” in this debate, why she believes compromise around abortion is impossible, and how her  Abortion, Every Day newsletter differs from the book.The Stacks Book Club pick for October is The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead. We will discuss the book on October 30th with Franklin Leonard returning as our guest.You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2024/10/23/ep-342-Jessica-Valenti Connect with Jessica: Instagram | Twitter | WebsiteConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 23 October 2024

*Patreon- and Substack-only bonus episode teaser*This is an abridged version of Traci’s live show “One for the Books.” This time, she’s joined by two incredible guests, Danzy Senna and Zach Stafford, for a conversation on Danzy's newest book Colored Television, passing narratives, and the word "mulatto". It's an evening filled with big laughs and even bigger questions around what it means to be mixed in America.You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://www.thestackspodcast.com/unabridged/2024/10/18/tsu-39-danzy-senna-zach-staffordConnect with Danzy: Facebook | WebsiteConnect with Zach: Instagram | Twitter | WebsiteConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | SubscribePurchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 18 October 2024

This week, we’re joined by anthropologist and author Jason De León to discuss his latest book, Soldiers and Kings: Survival and Hope in the World of Human Smuggling. We explore the ethical complexities of ethnography, the distinctions between human smuggling and trafficking, and Jason’s decision to place himself as a character in his work. Jason also shares how his experiences at the U.S.-Mexico border have shaped his approach to storytelling and what he believes could help address the ongoing humanitarian crisis.The Stacks Book Club pick for October is The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead. We will discuss the book on October 30th with Franklin Leonard returning as our guest.You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2024/10/16/ep-341-jason-de-leon Connect with Jason: Instagram | Twitter | WebsiteConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 16 October 2024

Journalist and author Jesselyn Cook joins The Stacks this week to discuss her new book, The Quiet Damage: QAnon and the Destruction of the American Family. In this episode, we dive into the origins of QAnon, how the conspiracy theory has evolved since its inception in 2017, and why certain individuals are more vulnerable to these beliefs. Jesselyn also breaks down how to approach conversations with loved ones who have fallen into the QAnon rabbit hole, offering insight into the far-reaching effects conspiracy theories have on our relationships and communities.The Stacks Book Club pick for October is The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead. We will discuss the book on October 30th with Franklin Leonard returning as our guest.You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2024/10/09/ep-340-Jesselyn-Cook Connect with Jesselyn: Instagram | Twitter | WebsiteConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 9 October 2024

Actor and producer Franklin Leonard joins The Stacks this week to discuss his groundbreaking work with The Black List. Known for revolutionizing the way Hollywood discovers screenplays, Franklin recently expanded The Black List into the world of fiction. This new initiative gives writers a platform to showcase unpublished manuscripts and connect with key players in the publishing industry. In today’s episode, we dive into why Franklin wanted to venture into the book world, how The Black List works, and what this expansion means for emerging writers. The Stacks Book Club pick for October is The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead. We will discuss the book on October 30th with Franklin Leonard returning as our guest.You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2024/10/02/ep-339-franklin-leonard Connect with Franklin: Instagram | Twitter | WebsiteConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 2 October 2024

It’s The Stacks Book Club Day, and we’re discussing Jazz by Toni Morrison. Professor Eve Dunbar joins us to explore the lives of Joe and Violet Trace, as their relationship is tested by love, betrayal, and violence in 1920s Harlem. In today's discussion, we dive into the significance of the book’s title and how it informs the novel’s improvisational style. We also examine Morrison’s relationship with her characters, the power of naming, and her exploration of closeness through violence.There are spoilers on today's episode.Be sure to listen to the end of today’s episode to find out what our October book club pick will be. You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2024/09/25/ep-338-jazz Connect with Eve: TwitterConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 25 September 2024

*Patreon- and Substack-only bonus episode teaser*In this episode of The Stacks Unabridged, we’re joined by George M. Johnson, author of Flamboyants, to explore the often-overlooked Black queer icons of the Harlem Renaissance. George discusses why they chose to write about these influential figures and how they used rumors and gossip as historical sources to bring these stories to life. We also dive into the current wave of book banning, exploring what’s truly driving it and the common misconceptions surrounding this troubling trend. It’s a powerful conversation about history, censorship, and resilience.*This episode is exclusive to members of The Stacks Pack on Patreon and our Substack subscribers. To join a community, get inside access to the show, and listen now, click the link below. JOIN PATREON OR SUBSTACK TO LISTENYou can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://www.thestackspodcast.com/unabridged/2024/09/20/tsu-38-george-m-johnson Connect with George: Instagram | Twitter | WebsiteConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | SubscribeSUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonPurchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 20 September 2024

Actor and comedian Laci Mosley (iCarly, A Black Lady Sketch Show) joins The Stacks to discuss her new book, Scam Goddess: Lessons from a Life of Cons, Grifts, and Schemes, a hilarious and subversive essay collection inspired by her podcast of the same name. Today, we talk about the scams that shape our world and why Laci wanted to write this book. Laci offers up her takes on the different types of scams, why not all scams are bad, and how scamming has shaped her career and personal life.Be sure to listen to the end of today’s episode to find out what our next book club pick will be. You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2024/09/18/ep-337-laci-mosley Connect with Laci: Instagram | TwitterConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 18 September 2024

Danzy Senna joins The Stacks to discuss her latest novel, Colored Television, a satirical take on one novelist's attempt to leave books behind and strike it rich in Hollywood. Today, Danzy explains why she uses the word "mulatto" in her work, how humor is integral to the mixed experience, and why all her characters make such bad decisions.Don't forget, The Stacks Book Club pick for September is Jazz by Toni Morrison. We will discuss the book on September 25th with Eve Dunbar.You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2024/09/11/ep-336-danzy-senna Connect with Danzy: Facebook | WebsiteConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 11 September 2024

English professor Eve Dunbar is here to discuss her forthcoming book, Monstrous Work and Radical Satisfaction: Black Women Writing under Segregation. Eve shares how libraries played a pivotal role in her childhood relationship to reading, and how that love of reading eventually led her to focus her academic work on African-American literature. We also delve into resistance and satisfaction as a way to fight white supremacy, and the book she most loves to teach.The Stacks Book Club pick for September is Jazz by Toni Morrison. We will discuss the book on September 25th with Eve Dunbar returning as our guest.You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2024/09/04/ep-335-eve-dunbar Connect with Eve: TwitterConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 4 September 2024

It’s The Stacks Book Club Day, and we’re discussing Master Slave Husband Wife by Ilyon Woo. We’re joined by actor and author Jay Ellis to explore the story of The Crafts, a husband-and-wife duo who escaped slavery by pretending to be a white man and his slave in 1848. We discuss why we think this story fell out of the collective consciousness, how the horrors of slavery are often minimized, and the complicated nature of familial relationships in the midst of chattel slavery. Be sure to listen to the end of today’s episode to find out what our next book club pick will be. You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2024/08/28/ep-334-master-slave-husband-wife Connect with Jay: Instagram | Twitter | WebsiteConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 28 August 2024

*Patreon- and Substack-only bonus episode teaser*Today we are joined by author Luvvie Ajayi Jones to discuss the all-important topic of book cover design and book marketing. Luvvie regularly works with aspiring new authors through her Book Academy, guiding them all the way through the publishing process. We also play a game where we predict whether or not a book will sell based on the title and cover (see the covers here).*This episode is exclusive to members of The Stacks Pack on Patreon and our Substack subscribers. To join a community, get inside access to the show, and listen now, click the link below. JOIN PATREON OR SUBSTACK TO LISTENYou can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://www.thestackspodcast.com/unabridged/2024/08/23/tsu-37-luvvie-ajayi-jones Connect with Luvvie: Instagram | Twitter | WebsiteConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | SubscribeSUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonPurchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 23 August 2024

Today we’re joined by author Regina Porter to discuss her new book, The Rich People Have Gone Away. She explains what made her hesitant to write a COVID novel and why she eventually changed her mind. She shares the role of humor in her work, and what made exploring the trope of missing white women exciting to her. The Stacks Book Club pick for August is Master Slave Husband Wife by Ilyon Woo. We will discuss the book on August 28th with Jay Ellis. You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2024/08/21/ep-333-regina-porter Connect with Regina: InstagramConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 21 August 2024

Today we’re joined by the multitalented LaDarrion Williams about his fantasy debut Blood at the Root, which re-imagines a magical academy as an HBCU. LaDarrion explains how being a playwright differs from being a novelist, how he has navigated criticism from readers, and why he wanted to write a Young Adult story for Black boys.The Stacks Book Club pick for August is Master Slave Husband Wife by Ilyon Woo. We will discuss the book on August 28th with Jay Ellis. You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2024/08/14/ep-332-ladarrion-williams Connect with LaDarrion: Instagram | Twitter Connect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 14 August 2024

Jay Ellis, star of HBO's Insecure, joins The Stacks to discuss his new memoir, Did Everyone Have an Imaginary Friend (or Just Me)?: Adventures in Boyhood. We talk about how this book came to be, where Jay’s imaginary friend came from and the purpose he served in his life. We also consider productivity versus creativity, and the books that made Jay fall in love with reading.The Stacks Book Club pick for August is Master Slave Husband Wife: An Epic Journey from Slavery to Freedom by Ilyon Woo. We will discuss the book on August 28th with Jay Ellis. You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2024/08/07/ep-331-jay-ellis Connect with Jay: Instagram | Twitter | WebsiteConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 7 August 2024

It’s The Stacks Book Club Day, and we are discussing the classic post-apocalyptic novel Parable of the Sower, which is set now, in July 2024. We’re joined again by Lessons for Survival author Emily Raboteau. We talk about what we think of Lauren, the book’s main character, and what we make of the religious and romantic elements in the story. We also contextualize the book’s iconic author, Octavia E. Butler.Be sure to listen to the end of today’s episode to find out what our August book club pick will be.You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2024/07/31/ep-330-parable-of-the-sower Connect with Emily: Instagram | Twitter | WebsiteConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 31 July 2024

Author Mateo Askaripour is back on The Stacks to talk about his sophomore novel, This Great Hemisphere, a work of speculative fiction about an invisible woman on a mission to solve a high profile political murder. Mateo explains how he built the book’s world - set 500 years in the future - and why he doesn’t think about genre with his work. We also discuss the performance of political discourse and how this book compares to his debut, Black Buck. The Stacks Book Club pick for July is Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler. We will discuss the book on July 31st with Emily Raboteau. You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks' website:https://thestackspodcast.com/2024/07/24/ep-329-mateo-askaripour Connect with Mateo: Instagram | Twitter | WebsiteConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Subscribe SUPPORT THE STACKSJoin The Stacks Pack on PatreonTo support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.Purchasing books through Bookshop.org or Amazon earns The Stacks a small commission.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 24 July 2024