Best Part of the Book

Featuring Douglas J. Butler, author of " North Carolina Civil War Monuments: An Illustrated History ." Butler discusses the origins, evolution, and significance of Civil War monuments across North Carolina, providing insights into the commemorative efforts that began immediately after the war. He delves into the roles of groups like the Ladies Memorial Associations and the United Daughters of the...

This episode features a fascinating conversation with Tom Jerman, author of " Santa Claus Worldwide: A History of St. Nicholas and Other Holiday Gift-Bringers ." The discussion explores the origins and evolution of Santa, touching on the traditions and diverse figures that have inspired the iconic holiday character. Jerman shares insights into ancient midwinter celebrations, the transformation of...

In this episode, Mark welcomes dog historian Brian Patrick Duggan to discuss his journey writing about dogs and his role as editor for the McFarland series, Dogs in Our World, a scholarly book series devoted to the exploration of the unique relationship between dogs and humankind in history, society and culture. From captivating tales of Salukis in the Middle East to the stories of therapy, milita...

Dive into the magic behind "How to Train Your Dragon!" This episode features Erik Heine, author of "The Music of How to Train Your Dragon Trilogy." He shares insights on composer John Powell's dynamic themes and how they shape unforgettable moments across the films. Learn about the craft of film scoring, the unique instruments used, and how musical motifs connect scenes and emotions. If you’re a f...

This episode features a discussion with James Arthur Anderson, the author of Methods and Meaning in the Novels of Stephen King. Anderson shares insights into Stephen King’s storytelling, exploring how he taps into universal human emotions, creating suspense and weaving deeper meanings into his horror novels. Anderson also highlights his own approach in writing the book, making academic analysis ac...

In this episode, Scott Drebit, author of "A Cut Below: A Celebration of B Horror Movies, 1950s-1980s," shares with Mark Perzel his lifelong fascination with horror films. Scott recalls his early exposure to the genre, starting at age six with the film "Burnt Offerings," and how the rise of video stores in the 80s revolutionized his passion for horror. B movies—those often underappreciated, low-bud...

Celebrating one of McFarland's local Ashe County authors, Mark interviews retired nurseryman and former volunteer steward of Bluff Nature Preserve, Doug Munroe. Doug is a tree hugger through and through and his love for them is contagious. Listen to his stories of trees unique to the Appalachians and how they impact the history and future of the area. LISTENER DISCOUNT CODE: BESTPART Receive a 25%...

In this episode, Rosilyn Stearnes-Brown, the daughter of baseball hall-of-famer Norman “Turkey” Stearnes, shares heartfelt stories about her father and her journey in writing a memoir to honor his life, his humble nature, and his dedication to family and education. She reflects on his career in the Negro Leagues, the challenges he faced during the Jim Crow era, and the legacy he left behind. LISTE...

EPISODE SUMMARY Clint Lanier and Mark Perzel discuss the life and experiences of Ted Mack, focusing on his journey from a sharecropper's son in Alabama to a social worker and civil rights activist in Milwaukee, and eventually to the business world where he pursued his dream of owning a brewery. They highlight Ted's involvement in the civil rights movement, his fight against segregation, and his en...

SUMMARY Mark interviews Lloyd Johnson and Miles Wolff, co-authors of "The Encyclopedia of Minor League Baseball," which documents minor league baseball's historical and statistical aspects. Lloyd and Miles discuss the evolution of the sport, the significance of the 1939 season for Tommy Lasorda, and the broader historical context of minor leagues in the U.S. They highlight the pivotal role of the...

Jim De La Rosa shares his compelling narrative in 'Building the Apollo Capsules,' chronicling the evolution of his career in aerospace engineering and his crucial role in the Moonshot program. From working on Hound Dog cruise missiles to testing Apollo's unmanned capsules, Delarosa provides a detailed account of the rigorous testing procedures that preceded the manned moon missions. This memoir al...

SUMMARY This podcast episode features an interview with Maria Kaj, the author of "Women and the Olympic Dream: The Continuing Struggle for Equality, 1896–2021." Maria talks about the long and ongoing fight for gender equality in the Olympics, celebrating the progress made while acknowledging the barriers that still exist. LISTENER DISCOUNT CODE: BESTPART Receive a 25% discount on Maria's book on M...

SUMMARY Step into the world of 'I Fart in Your General Direction: Flatulence in Popular Culture' and discover the surprising influence of flatulence in books and movies. From medieval literature to contemporary comedies, author Don Corrigan takes a lighthearted but informative approach to exploring the role of farts in popular culture. Delve into the pages of Chaucer's tales, where farting and mis...

In this episode, host Mark Perzel has a conversation with Ryan B. Case, the author of Mr. Bojangles, Dance: Jerry Jeff Walker, Sammy Davis, Jr., and the Song That Made Nixon Cry . Join us as we dive into the fascinating story behind this iconic song and the lives it touched. LISTENER DISCOUNT CODE: BESTPART Receive a 25% discount on Ryan's book on McFarland's website by using the coupon code BESTP...

Host Mark Perzel has a conversation with David Yamane, author of Gun Curious , as he shares his personal experience and exploration of America's complicated gun culture and offers valuable perspectives on the reasons behind firearms ownership while addressing the issues and concerns associated with gun violence.  LISTENER DISCOUNT CODE: BESTPART Receive a 25% discount on Gun Curious with coupon co...

In this pilot episode of Best Part of the Book , a personal nod is given to the small rural town of Ashe County where McFarland has called home since it was founded in 1979. Host Mark Perzel talks with Janet Pittard, author of A Hospital for Ashe County : Four Generations of Appalachian Community Health Care . Janet shares favorite stories she uncovered in the extensive research and over 100 inter...

You can explore a wide-range of topics and preview books you might want to read on Best Part of the Book , a McFarland podcast. I'm Mark Perzel and I'll be your host on a journey through the fascinating world of nonfiction books published by McFarland. Founded in 1979, McFarland & Company is best known for their serious treatment of popular culture. But on Best Part of the Book , you'll explor...