For the first time on this podcast, we're reading a book that is not banned: Notes of a Native Son by James Baldwin is controversial and challenging, but not challenged--at least not yet. But it's such a seminal book for understanding where we are in the country, and how we can both criticize and love our country, that we decided to read it anyway. Listen in to this important conversation about Baldwin whose every word is incredible, the roots of racism and how it hurts all of us, and how we can move forward as a nation. This book is deeply critical and holds well-earned hope--we promise, this conversation will change you.

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"The Beautiful and Banned" is produced by Jessica Goudeau and Christine Renee Miller. Follow us on social media: @beautifulandbannedpod, @christinereneemiller, and @jessica_goudeau.

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Our co-producer, Rob Heath, wrote and performed our theme music. Kalin Siegwald designed our logo. Jillian Benedict is our amazing podcast assistant. This is A Sisters By Different Misters Production.

Join us in two weeks as Christine and Jessica discuss Red, White, and Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston!

Episode 7 links:

Notes of a Native Son by James Baldwin
Baldwin's biography
Info about Baldwin's relationship with Lucien Happersberger

We'd love to hear from you! Send us a text to suggest books, plays, films, or guests, or just share your thoughts!

S3, E7: Notes of a Native Son by James Baldwin