<![CDATA[Bookmarked]]>945e47c7-269e-58e8-8176-1ccca62ec5f8Wed, 11 Mar 2026 14:45:01 +0000Captivate.fmKZSM / Priscilla Lederhttps://artwork.captivate.fm/114407a7-94b8-4f6c-8346-64035139ee04/rQsCd2w1fX4l3do8iC_UP3BM.jpgBookmarkedKZSM / Priscilla LederKZSM / Priscilla LederAll about books and reading in San Marcos and the world. Hosted by Priscilla Vance Leder.https://bookmarked.captivate.fmfalseepisodicnopodcastWilliam Blake vs the World, by John HiggsWilliam Blake vs the World, by John HiggsA memorable trip into the life and work of the British artist and poet William Blake. Gregory Ross joined me to talk about this lucid, powerful, timely book. "Before long you will find you are examining yourself as much as you are examining Blake" [The Times of London].

]]>A memorable trip into the life and work of the British artist and poet William Blake. Gregory Ross joined me to talk about this lucid, powerful, timely book. "Before long you will find you are examining yourself as much as you are examining Blake" [The Times of London].

]]>d3f0f150-445e-476f-9eb0-3da7c28fbd8aMon, 23 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -050058:53falsefull99049049Hollywood, by Charles BukowskiHollywood, by Charles BukowskiIn Hollywood, Charles Bukowski turns a very skeptical eye on Hollywood with this ribald account of the making of the film "Barfly," based upon his life. Writer Anthony Head, host of "Texas Dives Radio" joins me on this alcohol-fueled journey through the Hollywood of the 80s.

]]>In Hollywood, Charles Bukowski turns a very skeptical eye on Hollywood with this ribald account of the making of the film "Barfly," based upon his life. Writer Anthony Head, host of "Texas Dives Radio" joins me on this alcohol-fueled journey through the Hollywood of the 80s.

]]>b3979e51-2917-42a0-be20-869bad7cc3aaSat, 31 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -050059:07falsefull99029029James Tiptree, Jr: The Double Life of Alice B. Sheldon, by Julie PhillipsJames Tiptree, Jr: The Double Life of Alice B. Sheldon, by Julie PhillipsGarrie Borden joined me to explore this fascinating account look at the life and work of the acclaimed science fiction writer James Tiptree, Jr.--the alter ego of a woman, Alice Bradley Sheldon.

]]>Garrie Borden joined me to explore this fascinating account look at the life and work of the acclaimed science fiction writer James Tiptree, Jr.--the alter ego of a woman, Alice Bradley Sheldon.

]]>1cc3f2d6-70e3-4d5e-aed5-8cc4eb163d67Sat, 31 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -050059:42falsefull99019019Interview with poet Anne HalseyInterview with poet Anne HalseyChris Gardner talks with poet Anne Halsey about her work, including found poems based on early twentieth century medical records of women.

]]>Chris Gardner talks with poet Anne Halsey about her work, including found poems based on early twentieth century medical records of women.

]]>17981b0d-5968-4f21-b6bb-72e35d729ed0Sat, 31 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -050056:46falsefull88318318Interview with Diana Garcia, author of The Girl Who Wanted a PianoInterview with Diana Garcia, author of The Girl Who Wanted a PianoDiana Garcia talked with me and children's literature expert Dr. Teya Rosenberg about her beautiful new bilingual book The Girl Who Wanted A Piano, drawn from the life of San Marcos legend Ofelia Vasquez-Philo.

]]>Diana Garcia talked with me and children's literature expert Dr. Teya Rosenberg about her beautiful new bilingual book The Girl Who Wanted A Piano, drawn from the life of San Marcos legend Ofelia Vasquez-Philo.

]]>dfb7323b-bbad-471e-aa0f-ebeca7d4a003Sat, 31 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -050056:21falsefull88308308And There Was Light, by Jacques LusseyrandAnd There Was Light, by Jacques LusseyrandRebecca Bell-Metereau and I talked about this fascinating autobiography of Jacques Lusseyrand, who became a leader of the French Resistance in World War II despite his blindness.

]]>Rebecca Bell-Metereau and I talked about this fascinating autobiography of Jacques Lusseyrand, who became a leader of the French Resistance in World War II despite his blindness.

]]>7d206e6e-8e45-4a50-903a-d2d2e6019533Sat, 31 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -050058:31falsefull88298298The Life and Poetry of Frank Stanford, by Jimmy McWilliamsThe Life and Poetry of Frank Stanford, by Jimmy McWilliamsChris Gardner talks with historian Jimmy McWilliams about his extensive biography of radical Southern poet Frank Stanford.

]]>Chris Gardner talks with historian Jimmy McWilliams about his extensive biography of radical Southern poet Frank Stanford.

]]>830f6ebc-016a-42e6-a9fc-0f4aa0bbf6d9Sat, 31 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -050058:08falsefull88288288Interview with E. D. Watson, author of "My Phone is Full of Cute Cats and Dead Children",Interview with E. D. Watson, author of "My Phone is Full of Cute Cats and Dead Children",Award-winning poet E. D. Watson reads from and talks about her new book. How do we cope with the flood of disparate images that confront us on a daily basis?

]]>Award-winning poet E. D. Watson reads from and talks about her new book. How do we cope with the flood of disparate images that confront us on a daily basis?

]]>314fb147-fdba-4c0d-9455-8367aab4402eSat, 31 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -050001:02:01falsefull88278278The Awakened Brain: The New Science of Spirituality and Our Quest for an Inspired Life, by Dr. Lisa Miller, with Gregory RossThe Awakened Brain: The New Science of Spirituality and Our Quest for an Inspired Life, by Dr. Lisa Miller, with Gregory Ross Rev. Gregory Ross and I discuss "The Awakened Brain," by Dr. Lisa Miller, "a groundbreaking exploration of the neuroscience of spirituality and a bold new paradigm for health, healing, and resilience."

]]> Rev. Gregory Ross and I discuss "The Awakened Brain," by Dr. Lisa Miller, "a groundbreaking exploration of the neuroscience of spirituality and a bold new paradigm for health, healing, and resilience."

]]>da7e1f61-00a2-4d9b-a05c-9d774aa38fafSat, 31 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -050057:51falsefull88268268The Hounding, by Xenobe Purvis, Chris Gardner talks with Ken WardThe Hounding, by Xenobe Purvis, Chris Gardner talks with Ken WardChris Gardner and Ken Ward discuss The Hounding, by Xenobe Purvis, "a rich, atmospheric, novel thrumming with menace," according to "The New York Times."

]]>Chris Gardner and Ken Ward discuss The Hounding, by Xenobe Purvis, "a rich, atmospheric, novel thrumming with menace," according to "The New York Times."

]]>c88fb7ab-74e0-4e89-9fca-dec5000d0342Sat, 31 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -050057:52falsefull88258258The Collected Poems of Elizabeth Barrett Browning, with Dr. Denae DyckThe Collected Poems of Elizabeth Barrett Browning, with Dr. Denae Dyck"How do I love thee? Let me count the ways: You've probably read this iconic love poem. But what about the woman who wrote it? Join my conversation with Dr. Denae Dyck. She'll debunk myths about Elizabeth Barrett Browning and give us new insights into this passionate feminist and her poetry.

]]>"How do I love thee? Let me count the ways: You've probably read this iconic love poem. But what about the woman who wrote it? Join my conversation with Dr. Denae Dyck. She'll debunk myths about Elizabeth Barrett Browning and give us new insights into this passionate feminist and her poetry.

]]>1b292ace-a5b6-4779-85da-e836eb4bc27aSat, 31 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -050059:04falsefull88248248Live Reading of "A Christmas Carol," by Charles DickensLive Reading of "A Christmas Carol," by Charles DickensA live in-studio reading of this Christmas classic, with comments and discussion, featuring KZSM Volunteers and Bookmarked guests: Carol Coburn, Mark Decker, Chris Gardner, Jennifer Kabay, Gene Randall, Gregory Ross, Jim Wagner, and E. D. Watson. Produced by Rob Roark.

]]>A live in-studio reading of this Christmas classic, with comments and discussion, featuring KZSM Volunteers and Bookmarked guests: Carol Coburn, Mark Decker, Chris Gardner, Jennifer Kabay, Gene Randall, Gregory Ross, Jim Wagner, and E. D. Watson. Produced by Rob Roark.

]]>709bffd1-6155-472e-b3ad-7b011bd16a6fSun, 21 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -050056:38falsefull88338338Interview with J. J. Rusz, author of "The Window Trail: A Big Bend Country Mystery"Interview with J. J. Rusz, author of "The Window Trail: A Big Bend Country Mystery""Why do people even live here?" asks a character in J J Rusz's engaging mystery set in the Big Bend country of far west Texas. My conversation with the author answered that question and many more!

]]>"Why do people even live here?" asks a character in J J Rusz's engaging mystery set in the Big Bend country of far west Texas. My conversation with the author answered that question and many more!

]]>0c63bbe3-2bbd-4e1f-b3c3-cc15ec10ec4cMon, 15 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -050055:51falsefull88228228John and Paul: A Love Story in Songs, by Ian Leslie, with Jennifer KabayJohn and Paul: A Love Story in Songs, by Ian Leslie, with Jennifer KabayIf you thought there was nothing left to learn about the Beatles, you were wrong. Jennifer Kabay, host of "The McCartney Diaries" on The Mop Tops and the King, talked with me about this insightful new book.

]]>If you thought there was nothing left to learn about the Beatles, you were wrong. Jennifer Kabay, host of "The McCartney Diaries" on The Mop Tops and the King, talked with me about this insightful new book.

]]>94c1ed66-fea1-4a1b-8075-06c2b606e9cfMon, 15 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -050058:43falsefull88218218Interview with playwright Christa French, author of Calm Your Tits!Interview with playwright Christa French, author of Calm Your Tits!Chris Gardner talks with playwright Christa French about "Calm Your Tits," a satirical musical about bodies, blame, and the pressure to hold it all together.

]]>Chris Gardner talks with playwright Christa French about "Calm Your Tits," a satirical musical about bodies, blame, and the pressure to hold it all together.

]]>6fa1dfc7-4c45-4623-b160-a5d4fb662242Mon, 15 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -050058:37falsefull88208208Illusions: The Adventures of a Reluctant Messiah, by Richard Bach, with the Reverend Gregory RossIllusions: The Adventures of a Reluctant Messiah, by Richard Bach, with the Reverend Gregory Ross"'This world? And everything in it? Illusions, Richard.'" Greg Ross and I discussed Richard Bach's thought-provoking best seller, “a semi-autobiographical, semi-fictional account of Richard encountering a mysterious man named Donald Shimoda while barnstorming (offering $3 rides in an antique biplane) one glorious 1970s Midwest summer,”  as author Richard Bach describes it.

]]>"'This world? And everything in it? Illusions, Richard.'" Greg Ross and I discussed Richard Bach's thought-provoking best seller, “a semi-autobiographical, semi-fictional account of Richard encountering a mysterious man named Donald Shimoda while barnstorming (offering $3 rides in an antique biplane) one glorious 1970s Midwest summer,”  as author Richard Bach describes it.

]]>b23cecff-5190-4092-adeb-677968d6e60fTue, 19 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -050058:28falsefull88198198Zanuck: The Rise and Fall of Hollywood's Last Tycoon, by Leonard Mosley, with Rebecca Bell-MetereauZanuck: The Rise and Fall of Hollywood's Last Tycoon, by Leonard Mosley, with Rebecca Bell-MetereauFilm authority Dr. Rebecca Bell-Metereau joined me to explore this lively biography of producer Darryl Zanuck, a cinematic genius and a flawed human being with an outsized personality.

]]>Film authority Dr. Rebecca Bell-Metereau joined me to explore this lively biography of producer Darryl Zanuck, a cinematic genius and a flawed human being with an outsized personality.

]]>ad188b4c-5895-4b97-b14b-7e35f5b40334Tue, 19 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -050058:14falsefull88188188Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation. by Kristin Kobes du MezJesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation. by Kristin Kobes du Mez Du Mez traces the history of a militant masculinity that has shaped white evangelism from the early 20th century until the first election of Donald Trump. She explains how “a nostalgic commitment to rugged aggressive militant white masculinity serves as the thread binding together” attitudes towards women, gays, immigrants, Blacks, and anyone perceived as other, along with support for military action abroad. 

Historian Dwight Watson talked with me about this insightful book.

]]> Du Mez traces the history of a militant masculinity that has shaped white evangelism from the early 20th century until the first election of Donald Trump. She explains how “a nostalgic commitment to rugged aggressive militant white masculinity serves as the thread binding together” attitudes towards women, gays, immigrants, Blacks, and anyone perceived as other, along with support for military action abroad. 

Historian Dwight Watson talked with me about this insightful book.

]]>0c124bc8-bc79-4aee-b6b0-5be4c2cbc4e0Sat, 26 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -050050:51falsefull88178178Interview with Myra McIlvain, author of The Doctor's WifeInterview with Myra McIlvain, author of The Doctor's WifeAmelia leaves Germany for Texas, where she marries a man she barely knows. The Doctor’s Wife, part of a trilogy about German migration into Texas—from 1845-1875, chronicles her coming-of-age, along with the founding and development of the Texas port city of Indianola. Author Myra McIlvain talked with me about her vivid historical novel about German immigrants in Texas.

]]>Amelia leaves Germany for Texas, where she marries a man she barely knows. The Doctor’s Wife, part of a trilogy about German migration into Texas—from 1845-1875, chronicles her coming-of-age, along with the founding and development of the Texas port city of Indianola. Author Myra McIlvain talked with me about her vivid historical novel about German immigrants in Texas.

]]>b8e88d71-928d-400b-8e69-67e59fd9e282Tue, 15 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -050058:41falsefull88168168Maud's Line, by Margaret Verble, with Garrie BordenMaud's Line, by Margaret Verble, with Garrie Borden"Maud thought he hadn't figured out yet that Indian maidens weren't exactly the lovely wildflowers they were made out to be in books." Garrie Borden and I explored Margaret Verble's compelling account of an aspiring young Cherokee woman coping with life in Eastern Oklahoma in 1928.

]]>"Maud thought he hadn't figured out yet that Indian maidens weren't exactly the lovely wildflowers they were made out to be in books." Garrie Borden and I explored Margaret Verble's compelling account of an aspiring young Cherokee woman coping with life in Eastern Oklahoma in 1928.

]]>24de3876-627c-496f-a5bf-26e835ccf229Tue, 15 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -050058:40falsefull88148148Interview with India Hayford, author of The Song of the Blue Bottle TreeInterview with India Hayford, author of The Song of the Blue Bottle TreeGhosts, snakes, family lost and found, and plenty of sweetened ice tea! India Hayford talked with me about her lively, compelling debut novel.

]]>Ghosts, snakes, family lost and found, and plenty of sweetened ice tea! India Hayford talked with me about her lively, compelling debut novel.

]]>6deb5bd1-2765-4f51-b6a3-85d325106168Sun, 08 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -050001:00:21falsefull88138138Our Time Is Now: Power, Purpose, and the Fight for a Fair America , by Stacey AbramsOur Time Is Now: Power, Purpose, and the Fight for a Fair America , by Stacey AbramsDr Rebecca Bell-Metereau and I explored this timely and inspiring work, "a blueprint to end voter suppression, empower our citizens, and take back our country," according to the New York Times.

]]>Dr Rebecca Bell-Metereau and I explored this timely and inspiring work, "a blueprint to end voter suppression, empower our citizens, and take back our country," according to the New York Times.

]]>c434fe7a-44d7-4570-8e6d-392152e88e69Sun, 08 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -050058:30falsefull88118118Readings by local poets from "When the River Speaks"Readings by local poets from "When the River Speaks"We celebrated National Poetry Month with readings from the brand-new edition of When the River Speaks, A Community Published Poetry + Art Anthology.

Three contributors to this issue--Marieta Hutchison, Jacqueline Miller, and Blaze Turley read and talked about their work.

E. D. Watson, an award-winning local poet and one of the founders of the journal, read from her work and talked about creating the journal.

]]>We celebrated National Poetry Month with readings from the brand-new edition of When the River Speaks, A Community Published Poetry + Art Anthology.

Three contributors to this issue--Marieta Hutchison, Jacqueline Miller, and Blaze Turley read and talked about their work.

E. D. Watson, an award-winning local poet and one of the founders of the journal, read from her work and talked about creating the journal.

]]>ab7bffb1-459d-4224-ac37-0167bbcc9b26Fri, 18 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -050001:01:21falsefull88098098"Trifles," by Susan Glaspell--a live in-studio dramatization"Trifles," by Susan Glaspell--a live in-studio dramatizationWhat could drive a woman to murder? First performed by the Provincetown Players in 1916, the drama opens with the farmer John Wright dead and his wife, the only suspect, held for his murder. As the Sheriff and the County Attorney search for clues, the sheriff’s wife and a neighbor, relegated to her kitchen, imagine the wife’s life. “Trifles” not only solves a mystery but also questions a justice system unconcerned with the realities of women’s lives.

A gifted all-woman cast brings this play to life!

]]>What could drive a woman to murder? First performed by the Provincetown Players in 1916, the drama opens with the farmer John Wright dead and his wife, the only suspect, held for his murder. As the Sheriff and the County Attorney search for clues, the sheriff’s wife and a neighbor, relegated to her kitchen, imagine the wife’s life. “Trifles” not only solves a mystery but also questions a justice system unconcerned with the realities of women’s lives.

A gifted all-woman cast brings this play to life!

]]>792dbead-1798-48ee-8504-aecefa67c10fSun, 30 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -050055:42falsefull88088088Interview with Victoria Bynum, author of Deep Roots, Broken BranchesInterview with Victoria Bynum, author of Deep Roots, Broken BranchesThe personal is always political--and vice versa. Historian Victoria Bynum talked with me about her compelling new book, Deep Roots and Broken Branches: a History and Memoir. It’s a history of her family, starting before the Civil War, which is also the history of the country. This family, like all families, has its own dynamic which is nevertheless shaped by economic and cultural forces and by wars, as this book demonstrates so powerfully.

]]>The personal is always political--and vice versa. Historian Victoria Bynum talked with me about her compelling new book, Deep Roots and Broken Branches: a History and Memoir. It’s a history of her family, starting before the Civil War, which is also the history of the country. This family, like all families, has its own dynamic which is nevertheless shaped by economic and cultural forces and by wars, as this book demonstrates so powerfully.

]]>6940ddc0-5d59-4e84-aeaf-687e81294fc5Sun, 30 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -050059:16falsefull88078078Ammonite, by Nicola Griffith, with Eva SilverfineAmmonite, by Nicola Griffith, with Eva SilverfineThe planet harbors a virus that kills all men and some women. But women who survive have the power to reproduce themselves. Science writer Eva Silverfine was my guest to talk about this fascinating work of speculative fiction.

]]>The planet harbors a virus that kills all men and some women. But women who survive have the power to reproduce themselves. Science writer Eva Silverfine was my guest to talk about this fascinating work of speculative fiction.

]]>e33d1013-5610-4e95-9d69-2ba8d9fd96e3Sun, 30 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -050001:00:11falsefull88068068Interview with Rex Cole, author of Too Soon Old, Too Late SmartInterview with Rex Cole, author of Too Soon Old, Too Late SmartWould some small decision have given you a different life? We investigated some possible answers in conversation with Rex Cole, author of the funny, thought-provoking novel Too Soon Old, Too Late Smart.

]]>Would some small decision have given you a different life? We investigated some possible answers in conversation with Rex Cole, author of the funny, thought-provoking novel Too Soon Old, Too Late Smart.

]]>284b5bd5-e015-4603-941a-be2e17224fd8Fri, 28 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -050058:39falsefull88058058James, by Percival Everett Guest: Chris GardnerJames, by Percival Everett Guest: Chris GardnerIn James, Percival Everett gives Mark Twain's Jim from Huckleberry Finn his own voice and his own story. Chris Gardner and I explored this extraordinary novel.

]]>In James, Percival Everett gives Mark Twain's Jim from Huckleberry Finn his own voice and his own story. Chris Gardner and I explored this extraordinary novel.

]]>cd1b9cfc-fabc-48cf-bc64-28905f238b29Fri, 28 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -050058:29falsefull88048048Interview with Todd Crickmer, author of Scout of the Oregon TrailInterview with Todd Crickmer, author of Scout of the Oregon TrailTodd Crickmer talked with me about Scout of the Oregon Trail: The story of an American family traveling the Oregon Trail in 1852 as told by Scout, the family's dog. His memorable re-creation of the 2,000-mile journey over the Oregon Trail brings to life the real experience of an American myth.

]]>Todd Crickmer talked with me about Scout of the Oregon Trail: The story of an American family traveling the Oregon Trail in 1852 as told by Scout, the family's dog. His memorable re-creation of the 2,000-mile journey over the Oregon Trail brings to life the real experience of an American myth.

]]>89475bfe-ac5c-4281-b068-9b603a85f21bSun, 02 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -050058:29falsefull88038038Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End, by Atul GawandeBeing Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End, by Atul GawandeMedicine helps us live longer, but does it help us live well, all the way to the end? Dr. Rebecca Bell-Metereau talked with me about Dr. Atul Gawande's profound, lucid exploration of that question. Anyone with a body should read this book, we concluded.

]]>Medicine helps us live longer, but does it help us live well, all the way to the end? Dr. Rebecca Bell-Metereau talked with me about Dr. Atul Gawande's profound, lucid exploration of that question. Anyone with a body should read this book, we concluded.

]]>b4540f6c-f2bc-4eaa-a295-970fa7006adbSun, 02 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -050059:31falsefull88028028Wait, What?: And Life’s Other Essential Questions, by James E RyanWait, What?: And Life’s Other Essential Questions, by James E RyanIs it better to ask the right question than to have all the answers? Lynn Borton, host of Choose to be Curious, joined me for a discussion of James E. Ryan's thought-provoking book, describing five essential questions.

]]>Is it better to ask the right question than to have all the answers? Lynn Borton, host of Choose to be Curious, joined me for a discussion of James E. Ryan's thought-provoking book, describing five essential questions.

]]>e2f273e2-cfaa-40db-b01d-91d8115cf410Sun, 02 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -050001:00:36falsefull88018018Interview with Jerry Whitus, author of The Innocent and OthersInterview with Jerry Whitus, author of The Innocent and OthersSan Marcos author Jerry Whitus talked with me about his vivid, compelling short story collection, The Innocent and Others.

]]>San Marcos author Jerry Whitus talked with me about his vivid, compelling short story collection, The Innocent and Others.

]]>4df1d271-d090-4852-9500-742420f17526Mon, 16 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -050059:53falsefull77237237Interview with Johnny B. Truant, author of Fat VampireInterview with Johnny B. Truant, author of Fat VampireJohnny B. Truant is the bestselling author of Fat Vampire, adapted by The SyFy Network as Reginald the Vampire. and over 100 other titles across many genres, including fiction and non-fiction.  We talked about his experience as an indie writer, his wide-ranging imagination, and his writing process. Truant fan Blake Farrar added his own insights.

]]>Johnny B. Truant is the bestselling author of Fat Vampire, adapted by The SyFy Network as Reginald the Vampire. and over 100 other titles across many genres, including fiction and non-fiction.  We talked about his experience as an indie writer, his wide-ranging imagination, and his writing process. Truant fan Blake Farrar added his own insights.

]]>cba6d381-0546-4578-86f4-49504ed9c098Sat, 07 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -050058:01falsefull77227227Interview with Michelle Collins Anderson, author of The Flower SistersInterview with Michelle Collins Anderson, author of The Flower Sisters50 years ago, a devastating explosion killed dozens in this small Missouri town. Now, nobody wants to talk about it. Author Michelle Collins Anderson talked with me about her vivid re-imagining of this real event and its lingering consequences.

]]>50 years ago, a devastating explosion killed dozens in this small Missouri town. Now, nobody wants to talk about it. Author Michelle Collins Anderson talked with me about her vivid re-imagining of this real event and its lingering consequences.

]]>3965ce6e-0237-42ae-b2f4-cdb6399e2840Mon, 18 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -050059:22falsefull77217217Scary Stories for Halloween with El Tio/Uncle GeneScary Stories for Halloween with El Tio/Uncle GeneFellow KZSM radio host El Tio/Uncle Gene joined me to read, listen, and talk about some scary stories for Halloween.

]]>Fellow KZSM radio host El Tio/Uncle Gene joined me to read, listen, and talk about some scary stories for Halloween.

]]>a7f1277b-4ba3-4b29-b835-4a3e259845c3Sat, 02 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -050001:00:22falsefull77217217Interview with Corey Long, author of Come On Baby, Just Rock, Rock, Rock! The Inspired Life and Enduring Legacy of Ritchie ValensInterview with Corey Long, author of Come On Baby, Just Rock, Rock, Rock! The Inspired Life and Enduring Legacy of Ritchie ValensCorey Long's biography brings Ritchie Valens to life and makes us mourn his loss all over again. Priscilla Delgado Hermiller served as guest host for this episode.

]]>Corey Long's biography brings Ritchie Valens to life and makes us mourn his loss all over again. Priscilla Delgado Hermiller served as guest host for this episode.

]]>a031893d-9138-49a3-b90d-60857dba6000Sat, 02 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -050056:07falsefull77217217The Consequences, by Manuel Muñoz, with Garrie BordenThe Consequences, by Manuel Muñoz, with Garrie BordenGarrie Borden and I explore Manuel Muñoz's powerful short story collection, The Consequences, set in the cities and fields of California's Central Valley. His memorable characters struggle with the limitations of their circumstances—sometimes of their own making.

]]>Garrie Borden and I explore Manuel Muñoz's powerful short story collection, The Consequences, set in the cities and fields of California's Central Valley. His memorable characters struggle with the limitations of their circumstances—sometimes of their own making.

]]>206c1d4a-8e94-4865-907e-6013ef5b4045Sat, 02 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -050059:44falsefull77207207Gilead, by Marilynn Robinson, with Chris GardnerGilead, by Marilynn Robinson, with Chris GardnerA wise man contemplates life's deepest mysteries--including joy. Bookmarked regular Chris Gardner joined me for a discussion of Marilynn Robinson's Pulitzer-prize-winning American classic, Gilead

]]>A wise man contemplates life's deepest mysteries--including joy. Bookmarked regular Chris Gardner joined me for a discussion of Marilynn Robinson's Pulitzer-prize-winning American classic, Gilead

]]>4f635558-3eb8-4f5f-a758-e504c8eff067Mon, 07 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -050058:24falsefull77197197Interview with author Joe Holley about Native Texan: Stories from Deep in the HeartInterview with author Joe Holley about Native Texan: Stories from Deep in the HeartNative Texan is a literary road trip through a Texas that might surprise you. Author Joe Holley joined me to talk this collection of his colorful, thought-provoking columns.

]]>Native Texan is a literary road trip through a Texas that might surprise you. Author Joe Holley joined me to talk this collection of his colorful, thought-provoking columns.

]]>ce13ebe3-483f-4bd7-be84-a0616145974aMon, 07 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -050059:16falsefull77187187The Moment of Lift: How Empowering Women Changes the World, by Melinda Gates, with Rebecca Bell-MetereauThe Moment of Lift: How Empowering Women Changes the World, by Melinda Gates, with Rebecca Bell-MetereauIn her inspiring and timely book, Melinda Gates draws on her experiences as a philanthropist and her own history to show that lifting up women lifts up everyone. Rebecca Bell-Metereau was my guest.

]]>In her inspiring and timely book, Melinda Gates draws on her experiences as a philanthropist and her own history to show that lifting up women lifts up everyone. Rebecca Bell-Metereau was my guest.

]]>c5c868af-2b64-4a9b-9faf-27d7cf5b8049Wed, 18 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -050057:24falsefull77177177Interview with Chick Morgan, author of "Everything's a Two-step but a Waltz: The Reluctant Texas Comes HomeInterview with Chick Morgan, author of "Everything's a Two-step but a Waltz: The Reluctant Texas Comes HomeWimberley singer/songwriter Chick Morgan talked with me about her funny, poignant memoir--devastating personal losses finally sent her back where she thought she never wanted to be!

]]>Wimberley singer/songwriter Chick Morgan talked with me about her funny, poignant memoir--devastating personal losses finally sent her back where she thought she never wanted to be!

]]>c467ee88-c76d-4c32-a961-92873b58588eMon, 02 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -050058:56falsefull77167167Interview with Clay DeStefano, author of Health Scare: Confessions of a Hospital Spin DoctorInterview with Clay DeStefano, author of Health Scare: Confessions of a Hospital Spin DoctorClay DeStefano spent some 30 years working within the American health care system, and he thinks it's just not working, as he explains in this thought-provoking book. He talked with me about it on July 23.

]]>Clay DeStefano spent some 30 years working within the American health care system, and he thinks it's just not working, as he explains in this thought-provoking book. He talked with me about it on July 23.

]]>7da06cfa-3a2c-40a6-b731-f0a58be6aab9Mon, 29 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -050059:25falsefull77157157Interview with Michael Nelson Miller, author of The Two Deaths of Father RomeroInterview with Michael Nelson Miller, author of The Two Deaths of Father RomeroWhat's the difference between the law and justice? Michael Nelson Miller talked with me about his compelling new mystery novel, The Two Deaths of Father Romero: A Novel of the Borderlands.

]]>What's the difference between the law and justice? Michael Nelson Miller talked with me about his compelling new mystery novel, The Two Deaths of Father Romero: A Novel of the Borderlands.

]]>6c97c665-1adf-47fe-9aad-00b380934bb2Fri, 19 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -050058:55falsefull77157157Lark and Termite, by Jayne Anne Phillips, with guest Jaime MejiaLark and Termite, by Jayne Anne Phillips, with guest Jaime MejiaJayne Anne Phillips' powerful novel weaves an account of a little-known Korean War atrocity with the struggles of a West Virginia family. Dr. Jaime Mejia was my guest.

]]>Jayne Anne Phillips' powerful novel weaves an account of a little-known Korean War atrocity with the struggles of a West Virginia family. Dr. Jaime Mejia was my guest.

]]>d9160ad6-c5f6-4118-96de-387305fe0607Fri, 19 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -050058:22falsefull77157157The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store by James McBride, with Chris GardnerThe Heaven and Earth Grocery Store by James McBride, with Chris Gardner"She was the one among them who ruined his hate for them." In this amazing, joyous best seller, James McBride considers hate and the forces that ruin it in a small Pennsylvania town. Chris Gardner joined me to explore this novel.

]]>"She was the one among them who ruined his hate for them." In this amazing, joyous best seller, James McBride considers hate and the forces that ruin it in a small Pennsylvania town. Chris Gardner joined me to explore this novel.

]]>016b4e56-e219-423a-8ea2-d3adbcb155faFri, 19 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -050001:00:00falsefull77157157Dry by Augusten Burrows with guest Jennifer KabayDry by Augusten Burrows with guest Jennifer KabayMy guest Jennifer Kabay described the memoir:

Burroughs is a high-paid professional and RAGING alcoholic. Like—bad. Like stinking up the elevator with gin seeping from his pores bad. And from page 1 you’re sucked into his personal cocktail of lies, shame, co-dependency, and self-destruction. Maybe it’s my toxic trait to find these memoirs utterly fascinating. But really, I want to understand. Because too many people I love struggle with addiction. Burroughs shares his rise and inevitable fall with surprising humor. Like seriously, this book is FUNNY. And I loved it. Straight to STAFF PICKS at the library and big love to anyone who has the courage to share their truth like this.

]]>My guest Jennifer Kabay described the memoir:

Burroughs is a high-paid professional and RAGING alcoholic. Like—bad. Like stinking up the elevator with gin seeping from his pores bad. And from page 1 you’re sucked into his personal cocktail of lies, shame, co-dependency, and self-destruction. Maybe it’s my toxic trait to find these memoirs utterly fascinating. But really, I want to understand. Because too many people I love struggle with addiction. Burroughs shares his rise and inevitable fall with surprising humor. Like seriously, this book is FUNNY. And I loved it. Straight to STAFF PICKS at the library and big love to anyone who has the courage to share their truth like this.

]]>00c059fd-d125-4271-b14f-0cb937107608Fri, 19 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -050001:00:23falsefull77147147Small Acts of Courage: A Legacy of Endurance and the Fight for Democracy, by Ali Velshi, with guest Rebecca Bell-MetereauSmall Acts of Courage: A Legacy of Endurance and the Fight for Democracy, by Ali Velshi, with guest Rebecca Bell-MetereauSmall Acts of Courage chronicles the history of Velshi’s family and their migrations from India to South Africa to Kenya to Canada. Throughout, Velshi uses their experience to reflect on what it means to be a citizen—what happens when some people are denied full participation in a society, the best way to strive for full participation, and the responsibilities that go along with citizenship. Dr. Rebecca Bell-Metereau joins me to discuss this compelling book.

]]>Small Acts of Courage chronicles the history of Velshi’s family and their migrations from India to South Africa to Kenya to Canada. Throughout, Velshi uses their experience to reflect on what it means to be a citizen—what happens when some people are denied full participation in a society, the best way to strive for full participation, and the responsibilities that go along with citizenship. Dr. Rebecca Bell-Metereau joins me to discuss this compelling book.

]]>8f5153d5-c7b4-4d7f-85b9-fc6bdbfa4bf4Wed, 05 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -050059:27falsefull77137137The Extinction of Irena Rey, by Jennifer Croft with guest Brandon BeckThe Extinction of Irena Rey, by Jennifer Croft with guest Brandon BeckEight (or is it nine?) translators in a primeval Polish forest in search of a missing author, complete with ghosts and flammable mushrooms. Brandon Beck and I explore this compelling, mysterious novel by translator Jennifer Croft.

]]>Eight (or is it nine?) translators in a primeval Polish forest in search of a missing author, complete with ghosts and flammable mushrooms. Brandon Beck and I explore this compelling, mysterious novel by translator Jennifer Croft.

]]>d667b2ba-87a6-4c40-866e-237f0019888cWed, 05 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -050059:08falsefull77127127Interview with David Meischen, author of Nopalito, TexasInterview with David Meischen, author of Nopalito, TexasListen to a conversation with author David Meischen about his lyrical short story collection "Nopalito, Texas"--a compassionate look at the secret longings beneath the surface of life in a small Texas town.

]]>Listen to a conversation with author David Meischen about his lyrical short story collection "Nopalito, Texas"--a compassionate look at the secret longings beneath the surface of life in a small Texas town.

]]>8f1cb3c6-e19f-4f1f-9fcc-25650a5a3b63Fri, 17 May 2024 00:00:00 -050058:02falsefull77127127Our Missing Hearts, by Celeste Ng, with guest Garrie BordenOur Missing Hearts, by Celeste Ng, with guest Garrie Borden Garrie Borden and I explored Celeste Ng's powerful novel, depicting a dystopian America that's way too much like this one.

]]> Garrie Borden and I explored Celeste Ng's powerful novel, depicting a dystopian America that's way too much like this one.

]]>6e9421ce-2209-4f23-98f1-757790bb8885Fri, 17 May 2024 00:00:00 -050057:31falsefull77117117Interview with Debbie Roppolo, author of The Toilet's Overflowing and the Dog is Wearing my UnderwearInterview with Debbie Roppolo, author of The Toilet's Overflowing and the Dog is Wearing my UnderwearListen in for a conversation with San Marcos author Debbie Roppolo about her very funny take on family life and her award-winning children's books.

]]>Listen in for a conversation with San Marcos author Debbie Roppolo about her very funny take on family life and her award-winning children's books.

]]>de54303a-9b30-475d-8fd9-d3f73ae71d5fMon, 22 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -050055:58falsefull77107107The Expendable Man, by Dorothy B. Hughes, with guest Joan WorleyThe Expendable Man, by Dorothy B. Hughes, with guest Joan Worley55 pages into this dark, compelling 1963 mystery , one word changes everything! Mystery enthusiast Joan Worley joined me to explore this fascinating example of West Coast Noir.

]]>55 pages into this dark, compelling 1963 mystery , one word changes everything! Mystery enthusiast Joan Worley joined me to explore this fascinating example of West Coast Noir.

]]>f6500376-3769-498c-8b3e-5d57e511cd53Fri, 12 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -050001:00:07falsefull77097097Interview with Cary Clack, author of More Finish Lines to Cross: Notes on Race, Redemption, and HopeInterview with Cary Clack, author of More Finish Lines to Cross: Notes on Race, Redemption, and HopeHow do we remain hopeful in the face of ongoing injustice? a conversation with San Antonio Express-News columnist Cary Clack about his powerful new book, More Finish Lines to Cross: Notes on Race, Redemption, and Hope.

]]>How do we remain hopeful in the face of ongoing injustice? a conversation with San Antonio Express-News columnist Cary Clack about his powerful new book, More Finish Lines to Cross: Notes on Race, Redemption, and Hope.

]]>26f593c7-0805-4238-92dd-332a98604425Sat, 06 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -050058:34falsefull77087087Foster, by Claire Keegan, with Chris GardnerFoster, by Claire Keegan, with Chris GardnerThis wonderfully subtle novella reveals the adult world through a child's eyes, revealing layers of meaning within everyday life. Chris Gardner explored those layers with me.

]]>This wonderfully subtle novella reveals the adult world through a child's eyes, revealing layers of meaning within everyday life. Chris Gardner explored those layers with me.

]]>b55c824b-f741-43cd-8c5a-a7aab4c4ec34Sun, 24 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -050059:54falsefull77077077Interview with author Anna Bliss about her debut novel Bonfire NightInterview with author Anna Bliss about her debut novel Bonfire NightWhat happens when an Irish photographer and a Jewish medical student fall wildly in love as their country moves inexorably towards war? Author Anna Bliss talks with me about her compelling debut novel, which opens in 1936 and Nazi sympathizers march through the heavily Jewish East End of London.

]]>What happens when an Irish photographer and a Jewish medical student fall wildly in love as their country moves inexorably towards war? Author Anna Bliss talks with me about her compelling debut novel, which opens in 1936 and Nazi sympathizers march through the heavily Jewish East End of London.

]]>7355b4df-80ff-49b2-8181-17d14397a685Fri, 15 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -050059:04falsefull77067067Shadows of the Workhouse, by Jennifer Worth, with Jennifer KabayShadows of the Workhouse, by Jennifer Worth, with Jennifer KabayCall the Midwife is based on this wrenching memoir that takes you on a lice-infested, thin-blanket journey into the London workhouse. You’re cold. Sick. Unemployed. Your 9 children starving. Where else do you go? Better than the streets, surely. But residents tell a different story. So come. Join flies, fleas, and roaches on stony walls as Nurse Jenny bears witness. At least you won’t be alone. 

]]>Call the Midwife is based on this wrenching memoir that takes you on a lice-infested, thin-blanket journey into the London workhouse. You’re cold. Sick. Unemployed. Your 9 children starving. Where else do you go? Better than the streets, surely. But residents tell a different story. So come. Join flies, fleas, and roaches on stony walls as Nurse Jenny bears witness. At least you won’t be alone. 

]]>88c62379-4319-4e60-9249-bbd0a41ef131Tue, 27 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -050059:49falsefull77057057The Uninhabitable Earth: Life After Warming by David Wallace-WellsThe Uninhabitable Earth: Life After Warming by David Wallace-WellsGlobal warming is already doing major damage. Why are we ignoring it? Dr Rebecca Bell-Metereau and I explore David Wallace-Wells' scary, beautifully written book.

]]>Global warming is already doing major damage. Why are we ignoring it? Dr Rebecca Bell-Metereau and I explore David Wallace-Wells' scary, beautifully written book.

]]>efb243b4-38fa-4c45-a106-cb69ba248bffMon, 19 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -050049:41falsefull77047047My Brilliant Friend, by Elena Ferrante, with Garrie BordenMy Brilliant Friend, by Elena Ferrante, with Garrie BordenIt's a best-seller that's become a TV series and a graphic novel, but no one is completely sure of the author's identity. Garrie Borden and I ponder the power of this compelling novel.

]]>It's a best-seller that's become a TV series and a graphic novel, but no one is completely sure of the author's identity. Garrie Borden and I ponder the power of this compelling novel.

]]>4d37687d-8dcc-4d01-8f29-16160abf4e57Fri, 02 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -050001:00:55falsefull77037037Demon Copperhead, by Barbara Kingsolver with guest Chris GardnerDemon Copperhead, by Barbara Kingsolver with guest Chris GardnerChris Gardner joined me for a discussion of Barbara Kingsolver's brilliant contemporary re-imagining of the Dickens classic "David Copperfield," a profoundly moving examination of poverty, addiction, and resilience in the face of injustice!

]]>Chris Gardner joined me for a discussion of Barbara Kingsolver's brilliant contemporary re-imagining of the Dickens classic "David Copperfield," a profoundly moving examination of poverty, addiction, and resilience in the face of injustice!

]]>01e584cf-b388-4f77-aadf-5db9ab8445feThu, 01 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -050059:02falsefull77027027Salt Fish Girl, by Larissa Lai Guest: Brandon BeckSalt Fish Girl, by Larissa Lai Guest: Brandon BeckThe

novel features two settings—South China in the late 18-early 19 hundreds, and a

futuristic North America between 2044 and 2062. In this world, apparently run

by corporations, people live either in walled communities like “Serendipity” or

in the dangerous “unregulated zone.” The North American protagonist narrator,

Miranda, might be a reincarnation of the South China protagonist narrator, Nu

Wa, and both young women seem to be part fish. Similarly, Miranda’s lover, Evie,

seems to reembody the Salt Fish Girl Nu Wa loves. Each plot has a number of

digressions as the women seek to survive and thrive in sometimes hostile

environments.

]]>The

novel features two settings—South China in the late 18-early 19 hundreds, and a

futuristic North America between 2044 and 2062. In this world, apparently run

by corporations, people live either in walled communities like “Serendipity” or

in the dangerous “unregulated zone.” The North American protagonist narrator,

Miranda, might be a reincarnation of the South China protagonist narrator, Nu

Wa, and both young women seem to be part fish. Similarly, Miranda’s lover, Evie,

seems to reembody the Salt Fish Girl Nu Wa loves. Each plot has a number of

digressions as the women seek to survive and thrive in sometimes hostile

environments.

]]>ae701f87-b474-4232-87ca-ecc3dec1a75aTue, 09 Jan 2024 00:00:00 -050059:07falsefull66286286A Christmas Carol live in-studio dramatizationA Christmas Carol live in-studio dramatizationA community reading of the Charles Dickens classic "A Christmas Carol" from the KZSM studios in San Marcos, Texas.

]]>A community reading of the Charles Dickens classic "A Christmas Carol" from the KZSM studios in San Marcos, Texas.

]]>0d7f6fa4-7951-4491-96d2-99321fc6796bSat, 30 Dec 2023 00:00:00 -050059:59falsefull66306306Interview with Elizabeth Crook about The Madstone.Interview with Elizabeth Crook about The Madstone.Priscilla interviews local San Marcos author Elizabeth Crook on her novel The Madstone.

]]>Priscilla interviews local San Marcos author Elizabeth Crook on her novel The Madstone.

]]>959dc57d-9e06-477f-b8d9-0419e347602bSat, 30 Dec 2023 00:00:00 -050059:21falsefull66296296