Books & Looks

A mysterious Revolutionary War coin, modern cyber terrorism, and a shadowy organization known as the Liberty Unit converge in this groundbreaking techno-thriller that bridges America's past and present. Join Books and Looks for an in-depth review of "Going Dark" by George K. Mehok, a stunning debut novel that weaves together historical intrigue and contemporary cyber warfare. When NSA analyst Paul...

In 1970, six women defied societal expectations and brutal conditions to become the first all-female team to summit North America's highest peak. This is their remarkable story. Author Cassidy Randall uncovers the incredible journey of the "Denali Damsels" who faced -30° temperatures, deadly storms, and a skeptical climbing community to make mountaineering history. Through intimate journals and lo...

Explore the surprising history of U.S. interest in Greenland and the Arctic's rising geopolitical importance. Why has America tried to buy Greenland multiple times? Join us as we dive deep into the Arctic's past and present with Mary Thompson-Jones, author of 'America in the Arctic.' Discover how climate change and global powers are reshaping this crucial region. We'll explore historical attempts...

Can a single trial change the course of a nation? In 1925, the answer was yes. The Scopes Monkey Trial pitted evolution against creation, science against religion, and two of America's greatest orators against each other. Author Debbie Levy takes us beyond the courtroom drama to explore the deeper cultural battle that still rages today. Is teaching evolution a dangerous idea? And what happens when...

What do an Inca bridge master, a Sardinian pasta maker, and a Taiwanese movie poster painter have in common? They're among the last of their kind, preserving cultural traditions that may soon vanish forever. In this thought-provoking episode, author Elliot Stein takes us on a journey across the globe to meet these "Custodians of Wonder" and confront the question: What do we lose when ancient craft...

What would you sacrifice to protect the future of the world's food supply? In war-torn Leningrad, a group of unsung heroes faced this very question. As Hitler's forces closed in and starvation set in, these brave scientists guarded a forbidden garden—the world's first seed bank. Discover the untold story of their harrowing struggle and ultimate sacrifice in this interview with Simon Parkin, author...

Claire Hoffman discusses her new book "Sister Sinner" about the remarkable life of 1920s evangelist Aimee Semple McPherson. Hoffman shares key insights into McPherson's meteoric rise to fame, her pioneering use of media, her mysterious disappearance, and the fascinating relationship with her mother Minnie. Discover the gripping story of one of the most influential and controversial religious figur...

Planning a trip to Provence or dreaming of a French getaway? This episode is your ultimate guide! Author Carole Bumpus shares her hard-won wisdom and insider tips for making the most of your Provençal adventure. From navigating markets and menus to uncovering local history and culture, Carole's stories will inspire you to embrace the region's joie de vivre. Plus, discover practical advice for sail...

Today I Interview Robert Jackowski, author of the self-published mystery novel "Murder at the Hall". Robert shares his journey from a 40-year career on Wall Street to becoming a first-time novelist in retirement. He discusses the inspiration behind his book, the challenges and rewards of self-publishing, and offers advice for aspiring writers on staying motivated and leveraging life experiences in...

You think you know the story of Prohibition, but do you know the women behind it all? In "Firebrands", Gioia Diliberto uncovers the hidden history of four trailblazing women who fought for and against Prohibition. From the fierce ambition of Mabel Walker Willebrandt to the unlikely activism of society figure Pauline Sabin, these women wielded unprecedented power and influence. Discover how their i...

Author Mary Grand transports readers to the Isle of Wight in her captivating Christmas mystery, "A Christmas Murder." In this episode, Mary shares her journey to becoming a published author in her 50s and reveals the real-life inspirations behind her novel's vivid settings. Discover the secrets of crafting gripping whodunits and immerse yourself in the rich history and atmosphere of this enchantin...

Why settle for generic "best book" lists this holiday season? In this episode, you'll get my personal take on the most engaging, surprising and thought-provoking books from a year of author interviews. Uncover hidden gems like the stranger-than-fiction "Eden Undone" by Abbott Kaler and be inspired by "The Enigma Girls" by Candace Fleming. These aren't your typical recommendations - but they just m...

Ever wondered what it would be like to tour Europe with a pet rhino? In this episode, author Jillian Forsberg shares the unbelievable true story behind her novel The Rhino Keeper. Discover the joys, challenges, and surprising insights Forsberg gleaned while researching and writing this tale of interspecies friendship that will make you see rhinos in a whole new light. Links: "The Rhino Keeper" Boo...

Two-thirds of American children grow up without knowing how to read well. Is your child's school setting them up for failure? Irene Daria, author of "I Didn't Believe Him," shares her shocking discovery of how schools are using disproven methods to teach reading. Learn why millions of kids are being falsely labeled as "learning disabled" and what you can do to protect your child's potential. Links...

Looking for your next unputdownable read? Dive into "Eden Undone," Abbott Kahler's meticulously researched true adventure saga of a utopian experiment gone horribly wrong in the Galapagos Islands. In this episode, Kahler shares the most shocking twists, juiciest scandals, and profound insights from her years investigating this stranger-than-fiction story. Whether you're fascinated by the dark side...

Hop in the backseat for a wild ride through Chicago's Taxi Wars with author Anne Morrissy! Her book "Street Fight" is your GPS to a time when hailing a cab meant risking your life. You'll learn the secrets behind the cutthroat competition, the innovations that shaped the taxi industry, and the larger-than-life personalities who fought for control. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for...

As a parent or educator, are you always on the lookout for books that make learning fun? Look no further than Sarah Albee's imaginative non-fiction works. In this episode, Albee shares her secrets for transforming complex subjects into engaging stories that respect children's intelligence. From hands-on science experiments to little-known historical anecdotes, Albee's books offer endless opportuni...

In this eye-opening interview, author Laura Essay discusses her new legal novel "Side Effects Are Minimal" and shares insights from her years of research into the opioid epidemic. Essay, a former attorney, delves into the complexities of the crisis, the roles of various actors, and the importance of raising awareness through fiction. Discover the real-life inspirations behind Essay's gripping stor...

Looking for your next immersive historical read? Tune in as Madeline Martin takes you behind the scenes of "The Booklover's Library", a novel Blaine DeSantis calls "almost more history than fiction." You'll hear how Martin's research shaped vivid characters and moving themes of motherhood, community, and the solace of stories in troubled times. Leave inspired to seek out the books that speak to yo...

Historian Sandra Bonura shares the fascinating story of Claus Spreckels, a German immigrant who became one of the wealthiest men in America during the Gilded Age. Discover how Spreckels built a sugar empire in California and Hawaii in her captivating biography "The Sugar King of California," which Blaine DeSantis calls "the best biography I've read in over 20 years." Links: "The Sugar King of Cali...

In this episode, author Aimie K. Runyan discusses her new biographical fiction novel, Mademoiselle Eiffel, which uncovers the little-known story of Claire Eiffel, Gustave Eiffel's daughter. Runyan shares fascinating insights from her research into Claire's pivotal role working alongside her famous father on projects like the Eiffel Tower and Statue of Liberty, and how Claire stepped up to manage t...

She lied, she cheated, she swindled. And she almost got away with it. Annie Reed, author of "The Impostor Heiress," reveals the stranger-than-fiction tale of Cassie Chadwick, a woman who posed as Andrew Carnegie's daughter and conned her way into millions during the Gilded Age. But who was the real Cassie Chadwick hiding beneath all the diamonds and deception? Reed unravels the mysteries in this u...

Adoptee and author Janet Sherlund gets personal about her search for belonging in this must-listen episode. Sharing insights from her memoir "Abandoned at Birth," Sherland offers a relatable perspective on the challenges adoptees face in forming their identities and connecting with their roots. Gain a deeper understanding of the adoption experience and the importance of openness and honesty in hel...

Join author Allison Alsup as she discusses her debut novel "Foreign Seed". Alsup shares the decade-long journey of writing her book, from the initial spark of inspiration to the extensive research and revisions that shaped the final story. She also delves into the historical and personal influences behind her complex characters and offers a sneak peek at her upcoming second novel. Links: "Foreign...

If you've ever found yourself lost in the aisles of a bookstore, this episode is for you. Dr. Evan Friss, author of "The Bookshop: A History of the American Bookstore," shares his passion for the magic of bookstores and the communities they create. Learn about the innovators who revolutionized bookselling, the cozy charm of indie shops, and the surprising role of department stores in book culture....