Podcast Summary: All Of It – "New Books to Read This Winter"
Host: Alison Stewart
Guest: Jordan Loft, Producer of All Of It and Get Lit
Episode Title: New Books to Read This Winter
Release Date: January 14, 2025
Duration: Approximately 50 minutes
Introduction
In this engaging episode of WNYC's All Of It, host Alison Stewart teams up with producer Jordan Loft to explore the literary landscape of the upcoming winter season. The discussion centers around setting reading goals, discovering new book releases, and sharing listener recommendations, catering to a diverse array of interests from classic literature to contemporary fiction and non-fiction.
Setting Reading Goals
Jordan Loft opens the conversation by reflecting on her personal reading ambitions, inspired by the previous year's summer reading challenge. She emphasizes the importance of diversifying her literary intake through translated works and tackling substantial Russian novels.
Jordan Loft [02:14]: "I have found that every time I've read a translated book, it's opened up my eyes in a new way either to a different culture or different way of tackling fiction or stories I hadn't thought of before."
Her goal for the year includes reading more translated literature, with aspirations to dive into epic novels such as Brothers Karamazov, War and Peace, and Crime and Punishment. Loft also aims to maintain a consistent reading pace, striving to complete one book per week.
Jordan Loft [03:18]: "I'm trying to push to 54. I haven't made it yet, but maybe this will be my year."
Listener Book Recommendations
The show actively engages listeners by taking live calls, each bringing unique book recommendations and personal anecdotes related to their reading experiences.
Centennial Classics
A listener highlights the significance of this year's 100th anniversaries of iconic literary works.
Listener [03:50]: "It's the 100th anniversary of The Great Gatsby and the 100th birthday of Mrs. Dalloway by Virginia Woolf."
Jordan suggests contemporary adaptations to celebrate these classics:
Jordan Loft [04:05]: "If you’re looking for a more contemporary way in, you could read The Hours by Michael Cunningham, a retelling of Mrs. Dalloway through the perspective of three different women."
Diverse Voices
Another caller, Harimi, recommends The Vegetarian by Han Kang, praising its intricate layers that delve into themes like patriarchy, mental health, and human cruelty.
Harimi [08:15]: "It’s about cruelty on animals and the cruelty by human beings in general... about freedom from cruelty."
Timeless Russian Literature
Tony emphasizes the enduring relevance of Dostoevsky's Crime and Punishment, highlighting its deep exploration of psychosis and isolation.
Tony [09:38]: "It is one of my favorite books of all time. It delves deep into psychosis and particularly what happens with isolation."
Queer Narratives
Nina from Brooklyn introduces We Could Be Rats by Emily Austin, a novel that features complex queer characters navigating life with mental health challenges.
Nina [18:32]: "Her books feature mentally ill autistic lesbians... super literary and fun and relatable."
Featured New Fiction Releases
Jordan Loft spotlights several upcoming fiction titles poised to capture readers' attention this winter.
All the Water in the World by Erin Kaphal
Set in a future New York City after an apocalyptic event, this novel explores a resilient community living atop the Museum of Natural History, striving to preserve humanity's cultural heritage amidst climate-induced chaos.
Jordan Loft [10:31]: "It's based on some sort of real-life history... inspired by museum curators dealing with treasures during times of war or unrest."
Death of the Author by Nnedi Okorafor
A blend of science fiction and realistic fiction, this book follows a paraplegic author whose dystopian novel becomes a bestseller, intertwining personal trauma with societal change.
Jordan Loft [12:04]: "It's about how she is dealing with her newfound fame and what that means, and also how this book might change the world."
Disillusionment Solution by Michael Binge
A thriller featuring an elderly woman uncovering the truth behind her husband's supposed Alzheimer's, blending elements of sci-fi and psychological suspense.
Jordan Loft [15:27]: "She learns someone has been trying to erase his memories on purpose... It seems like a book that would be a really good fit for people who love Blake Crouch."
Non-Fiction Segment
After a brief interlude, the conversation transitions to non-fiction, with recommendations spanning African history, the intersection of race and color, and the evolution of NPR.
An African History: From the Dawn of Humanity to Independence by Zainabadawi
A comprehensive survey of Africa's rich history, this book serves as an accessible introduction for readers eager to expand their knowledge beyond a Eurocentric perspective.
Jordan Loft [34:18]: "It's a really good survey for people like me who want to learn more."
Black and How a Color Tells the Story of My People by Imani Perry
Perry explores the multifaceted relationship between Black Americans and the color blue, delving into cultural, historical, and societal implications.
Jordan Loft [35:14]: "It's a history of the relationship between Black Americans and the color blue in a variety of different ways."
Taking the Extraordinary Events that Created New York and Shaped America by Russell Shorto
A deep dive into New York City's Dutch roots and early history, integrating indigenous perspectives and newly translated documents to provide a nuanced narrative.
Jordan Loft [38:19]: "He really worked hard to include sources from indigenous Americans and enslaved people to tell their perspective."
Staff Reading Goals
Jordan shares insights into the reading ambitions of the show's production team, highlighting their diverse literary interests.
Jordan Loft [49:11]: "Our senior producer Kate Hines is really excited for the new essay collection King of Ashes."
Conclusion
As the episode wraps up, Alison Stewart and Jordan Loft reflect on the diverse array of books discussed, encouraging listeners to explore new genres and authors. The episode underscores the importance of community engagement in building a vibrant cultural dialogue, embodying the show's mission to celebrate and curate the rich tapestry of New York City's literary offerings.
Alison Stewart [50:10]: "We'll let you know what she picks next time she's on All Of It."
Listeners are invited to submit their own book recommendations and reading goals for future episodes, fostering an interactive and inclusive literary community.
Notable Quotes:
- Jordan Loft [02:14]: "I'm hoping to read some more translated literature this year."
- Harimi [08:15]: "It's about cruelty on animals and the cruelty by human beings in general... about freedom from cruelty."
- Tony [09:38]: "It is one of my favorite books of all time. It delves deep into psychosis and particularly what happens with isolation."
- Jordan Loft [10:31]: "It's based on some sort of real-life history... inspired by museum curators dealing with treasures during times of war or unrest."
- Jordan Loft [34:18]: "It's a really good survey for people like me who want to learn more."
This comprehensive summary encapsulates the essence of the episode, providing a structured overview of the discussions, key book recommendations, and insightful exchanges between the host and producer, enriched with direct quotes and timestamps for added context.