The Perils of Power
We've all heard the adage that "power corrupts," but psychologist Dacher Keltner at UC Berkeley has found evidence to prove it. His book is The Power Paradox: How We Gain and Lose Influence.
Books
Our Language Has 'Interesting Little Wrinkles,' Linguist Says
John McWhorter of Columbia University says the way we use words changes, like how "literally" can now mean "figuratively." That example, he says, is a contronym, a word with two opposite meanings.
A Kitty Leads A Double Life In Beatrix Potter's Posthumously Published Tale
The unfinished work is a curious afterword to Potter's beloved catalog. But perhaps the best thing about The Tale of Kitty-in-Boots is that it will likely send readers back to Potter's original work.
In New Memoir, Alberto Gonzales Defends 'War On Terror' Tactics
In his memoir True Faith and Allegiance, former U.S. Attorney General Alberto Gonzales defends the legacy of the Bush administration ahead of the 15th anniversary of Sept. 11.
'The Art Of Waiting' Stands As Part Memoir, Part Cultural History Of Infertility
Author Belle Boggs struggled with infertility for years before she conceived her daughter. She talks with NPR's Rachel Martin about her new book.
'Ugly': A Memoir Of Childhood, Deformity And Learning To Love A Distinctive Face
Robert Hoge was born with deformed legs and a giant tumor between his eyes. In his new memoir, he describes his mother's shock and how she decided whether or not to bring him home.
Former Journalist Sabaa Tahir Writes Dystopian Fantasies Inspired By The News
Tahir got the idea for her series An Ember in the Ashes in 2007, after she was asked to edit a haunting news story at The Washington Post.
Florida Man Defends His Homeland With 'Best. State. Ever.'
Dave Barry is defending his state with a new book. He talks to NPR's Scott Simon about his homeland as a place for oddballs, blockheads, and eccentrics
Better Sit Down For This One: An Exciting Book About The History Of Chairs
OK, fine ... this new chair anthology might not keep you on the edge of your seat, but it does reveal some very interesting ideas about trends in design, culture and social values.
'A Gentleman In Moscow' Is A Grand Hotel Adventure
Amor Towles' new novel stars a Russian aristocrat, sentenced by the Soviets to permanent house arrest in a luxury hotel. It's a frothy romp that tends to overlook the reality of life under Stalin.