In her new book, Darkology, historian Rhae Lynn Barnes writes about how blackface and minstrel shows became one of the most popular forms of entertainment in 19th- and 20th-century America.

Three women survived marriages to serial killers and use their experience to catch one. NPR's Ayesha Rascoe talks with Elizabeth Arnott about her new novel, "The Secret Lives of Murderers' Wives."

NPR's Scott Simon talks with Gin Phillips about "Ruby Falls." Her new novel begins in 1928 Chattanooga when a man discovers a mysterious underground cavern with a massive waterfall.

A mom and science writer offers an operating manual for parents grappling with kids' screen use and cravings for sweets.

NPR's Juana Summers talks with Cara Bastone about her latest romance novel, No Matter What. The story starts with miscommunication, but protagonists Vin and Roz's love carries the story.

NPR's Juana Summers talks to Roger Bennett about his new book, We Are the World (Cup), and what could be in store in this year's tournament as America hosts for the first time in 32 years.

John Quincy Adams had one of the most consequential post-presidencies in U.S. history. NPR"s Steve Inskeep asks biographer Bob Crawford how Adams became the ultimate political maverick.

Some writers have a designated desk or a curated room where they work. Others write anywhere and everywhere. Katie da Cunha Lewin examines famous authors' spaces in her new book, "The Writer's Room."

British elites and wannabes behave badly in Elizabeth Day's sharp new novel, "One of Us." NPR's Scott Simon talks with Day about her privileged and deeply flawed characters.

NPR's Mary Louise Kelly speaks with Norah O'Donnell about her new book, "We the Women," which chronicles the stories of the women who built America.