Episode 32: Freedom

Recorded one day after the United States of America's 245th birthday, the latest episode of the Book XChange podcast takes advantage of the Independence Day vibes to consider the gifts and responsibilities of FREEDOM. And not just American freedom either, but "freedom" as it pertains to all members of the human family. We discuss and recommend books that have something to teach, say, remind, provoke, or inspire about the ideal of freedom. From classic autobiographies and political treatises, to novels, to philosophical ruminations on art and individual expression – this episode looks at what it means to consider, value, protect and fight for freedom. We hope listeners will appreciate whatever freedoms they are blessed to enjoy, and maybe hear some interesting reading recommendations along the way. Happy 4th of July to our American listeners, and a huge thank you as always to all of you, no matter where you're from!

BOOKS DISCUSSED/MENTIONED/RECOMMENDED IN THIS EPISODE

What Jude is currently reading/plans to read next:

'Borstal Boy,' Brendan Behan -

'A Prayer for Owen Meany,' John Irving -

What John is currently reading/plans to read next:

'Fragments of an Infinite Memory: My Life with the Internet,' Maël Renouard -

TBD -

Books/Writers discussed in this episode:

'Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era,' James M. McPherson -

'Long Walk to Freedom,' Nelson Mandela -

'The Underground Railroad,' Colson Whitehead -

It Can't Happen Here,' Sinclair Lewis -

'Les Misérables,' Victor Hugo -

'Parting the Waters' (and the 'America in the King Years' trilogy), Taylor Branch -

'You Are Not A Gadget: A Manifesto,' Jaron Lanier -

'Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave, Written by Himself,' Frederick Douglass -

'A Star Called Henry,' Roddy Doyle -

'Common Sense,' Thomas Paine

Planned next episode of the Book XChange podcast:

Episode 33 1/3 (get it?) will cover... books that are somehow about music! Join us next time for a symphony of recommendations of great books either written by musicians, or about the magic and mystery of music in some way.