Try not to tear up a little as Mary-Louise Parker reads a letter from her debut book, "Dear Mr. You," to the grandfather she never met.
books
The Music and Moments That Made Carrie Brownstein
Back in 1994, Carrie Brownstein co-founded Sleater-Kinney -- a blazing all-woman rock trio that made a huge impact on critics and the indie rock scene. Their debut record, "Dig Me Out," landed on Rolling Stone's list of The Greatest Albums of All Time. Then, in 2006, Carrie left the group, and along with comedian Fred Armisen, co-created the hit sketch-comedy show "Portlandia." In her new memoir, she reflects on trying (and failing) to survive on rock and roll alone.
Leigh Bardugo’s 3 Essential Young Adult Books — For Old Adults
Author Leigh Bardugo first cracked the New York Times Bestseller list with "The Grisha Trilogy" -- a young adult fantasy series set in a world based on Czarist Russia. Earier this week her new novel, "Six of Crows," was the bestselling young adult book in the land. Leigh tells us about it, and recommends a few young adult titles that prove the category (it's not a genre!) is for old and young alike.
Fred Stoller Versus the VHS Demo Tape
If you've ever watched TV, chances are you've seen comedian Fred Stoller in action. He's had guest roles on series like "Scrubs," "Friends," and "Everybody Loves Raymond," which leads to the very self-aware title of his memoir, "Maybe We'll Have You Back: The Life of a Perennial TV Guest Star." The Brooklyn comedian hilariously recalls a neurotic adventure involving a demo tape, a director, and the U.S. postal system.
Sloane Crosley’s Big-Hearted Novel
Sloane Crosley's funny, confessional essay collection, "I Was Told There'd Be Cake," was nominated for a Thurber prize. Her follow-up, "How Did You Get This Number," was a New York Times bestseller. Her first novel, "The Clasp." is out on October 6. She shares an excerpt.
Adrian Tomine on Schlubby Dads and Melancholy Comedy
Considered one of America's great graphic novelists, illustrator Adrian Tomine's clean-lined illustrations have graced the covers of several issues of the New Yorker magazine, as well as album covers by bands like The Eels. His new collection, "Killing and Dying," made Publishers Weekly's list of the most anticipated books of the fall. He delves into the semi-autobiographical elements of his new graphic novel and explains how taking criticism to heart helped open up his creativity.
Attack, Pray, Leave: Elizabeth Gilbert Offers Up Advice
Elizabeth Gilbert began her career writing magazine pieces for the likes of GQ and The New York Times, and then went on to write several well-received books, including her smash hit, globe-trotting journey of self-discovery called "Eat, Pray, Love." Her latest non-fiction book is called "Big Magic." She tells us about conquering fear so creativity can thrive and then recommends unleashing your inner Bruce Willis.
Web Extra: Tracy Daugherty on Writing an Unauthorized Didion Biography
The author explains to Brendan how he went forward with his book, despite Didion's lack of cooperation.
How Joan Didion Became ‘Joan Didion’
Biographer Tracy Daugherty discusses his latest book, "The Last Love Song," in which he examines the life of the candid literary figure and her impact on the cultural landscape.
George Carlin’s Daughter Recalls his Exploding Sun
Kelly Carlin, daughter of late great comedian George, shares a piece of her new memoir "A Carlin Home Companion" (out this week). It's about the time her father thought that the sun exploded...or as she told us, "A little story that we used to like to tell at cocktail parties."