Live Wire with Luke Burbank: Open Book Episode Featuring Sloane Crosley

Release Date: July 16, 2025

In this engaging episode of Live Wire with Luke Burbank, hosted by PRX, Sloane Crosley delves into the current landscape of literary controversies and the enduring power of books. The conversation seamlessly transitions into a rich dialogue between Emily St. John Mandel and Jesse David Fox, exploring diverse facets of reading, writing, and the intricate relationship between authors and their audiences.

1. The Power and Controversy of Books

Sloane Crosley opens the discussion by addressing the heated debates surrounding book selections for reading, teaching, and sharing with children. She emphasizes the significant influence books wield in shaping societal perspectives, stating:

"We're living through an uncertain time, and it's clearer than ever that books have power."
[00:00]

Crosley highlights the importance of mindful book dissemination in contemporary times, setting the stage for deeper conversations about literature's role in society.

2. Introducing Brooklyn Public Library’s New Podcast Series

Jesse David Fox brings attention to Brooklyn Public Library's initiative to celebrate transformative literature through their upcoming podcast series, Borrowed and Returned.

"This summer, we're launching a new podcast series called Borrowed and Returned, where we revisit the books that changed us and changed America, too."
[00:14]

He encourages listeners to subscribe and join the journey of rediscovering influential books throughout the summer.

3. Transition to Author Conversation

Following a brief advertisement, the episode transitions to a spirited conversation between Emily St. John Mandel and Jesse David Fox, focusing on their personal reading habits and experiences as writers.

4. Exploring Personal Reading Habits

Emily St. John Mandel initiates the discussion by inquiring about Fox's approach to reading.

"How would you describe yourself as a reader? Are you a regimented reader? Are you an emotional reader?"
[01:13]

Jesse David Fox candidly describes himself as an "craving based" reader who prioritizes personal interest over obligation, noting:

"I learned finally to quit books. I used to pride myself on this when I was in my early 20s, that I'd never walked out of a movie and I'd never left a book unfinished."
[01:23]

He emphasizes his irregular reading pattern, influenced by his professional background in book reviewing and publicity.

5. Comfort Reads and Favorite Authors

The conversation shifts to Fox's preferences for "comfort food" books, highlighting authors he admires and finds solace in:

"I love Emily St. John Mandel. I love Lauren Groff. ... They’re quite serious authors. ... They are comfort food."
[02:28]

Fox clarifies that his comfort reads are not guilty pleasures but rather works by esteemed authors that provide a sense of literary comfort.

6. Reading Habits During Writing Projects

Emily St. John Mandel probes into how Fox's reading habits shift when immersed in writing projects.

"Does your reading change when you're in the throes of a writing project?"
[02:56]

Fox reveals that he often diverges from his current writing focus, opting to read genres opposite to his project to stimulate creativity:

"If I'm working on nonfiction, I'll read fiction and vice versa."
[03:06]

He shares his experience while writing Grief Is for People, mentioning his deep engagement with Virginia Woolf's works.

7. Discussing Book Adaptations

The duo delves into the realm of book adaptations, debating the quality and impact of translating literature to screen. Fox expresses admiration for certain adaptations, proclaiming:

"You are haunted by those things."
[05:12]

He cites Station Eleven as a "spectacular" adaptation, while also critiquing recent adaptations that may fall short of their source material's depth.

8. Emotional Impact of Literature

Emily St. John Mandel and Fox explore how certain books evoke strong emotional responses. Fox reminisces about impactful reads that moved him to tears:

"The first adult book that ever made me cry was The Chosen by Chaim Potok."
[05:54]

He discusses the profound emotional connections readers can develop with literature, highlighting the delicate balance authors maintain in eliciting genuine emotions.

9. Audiobooks and Listening Preferences

The conversation transitions to the topic of audiobooks, with Fox sharing his limited engagement with the format:

"My audiobook diet is nil. I just listened to my first."
[07:19]

He elaborates on his selective approach to audiobooks, linking it to his lifestyle and personal preferences.

10. Transitioning from Book Publicist to Writer

Fox reflects on his professional journey from book publicity to becoming an author, discussing the challenges and mindset shifts involved:

"It's the people-pleasing switch. ... You have to unwind it."
[09:14]

He emphasizes the importance of balancing audience expectations with authentic self-expression in writing.

11. Aspirations for Fellow Authors

The discussion touches on fellow authors' potential projects, with Fox expressing interest in future memoirs by Zadie Smith:

"I would like to see more narrative from her."
[10:11]

He admires Smith's versatility and anticipates her contributions to narrative nonfiction.

12. Conclusion and Well-Wishes

As the conversation winds down, Mandel and Fox exchange congratulations on Fox's recent publications, wrapping up their insightful dialogue on literature, emotional resonance, and the evolving dynamics of reading and writing.

"Congratulations on the book."
[11:12]

Behind the Scenes with Live Wire

In a playful outro, Sloane Crosley invites listeners to explore more vibrant discussions and entertaining segments on Livewire Radio, encouraging engagement with the broader community.

"Do you want to hear your favorite authors talk about their own work and maybe sweat a little?"
[11:20]

Notable Quotes:

• Sloane Crosley: "We're living through an uncertain time, and it's clearer than ever that books have power."
  [00:00]

• Jesse David Fox: "I learned finally to quit books. I used to pride myself on this when I was in my early 20s, that I'd never walked out of a movie and I'd never left a book unfinished."
  [01:23]

• Jesse David Fox: "They are quite serious authors. Like, I love Emily St. John Mandel. I love Lauren Groff. They’re quite serious authors. ... They are comfort food."
  [02:28]

• Jesse David Fox: "If I'm working on nonfiction, I'll read fiction and vice versa."
  [03:06]

• Jesse David Fox: "The first adult book that ever made me cry was The Chosen by Chaim Potok."
  [05:54]

• Jesse David Fox: "My audiobook diet is nil. I just listened to my first."
  [07:19]

• Jesse David Fox: "It's the people-pleasing switch. ... You have to unwind it."
  [09:14]

This episode of Live Wire with Luke Burbank offers a compelling exploration of the intricate relationships between readers, writers, and the ever-evolving literary landscape. Through candid conversations and thoughtful reflections, listeners gain deeper insights into the personal experiences and professional journeys of esteemed authors like Jesse David Fox and Emily St. John Mandel.