HILLEL ITALIE National Writer, Author at The Rapid City Post

Kirkus Prize winners include a novel on identity, a history of Iran and an ode to belly buttons

October 8, 2025

Kirkus Prize judges have announced their winners for this year, awarding $50,000 in each of three categories. Lucas Schaefer’s novel “The Slip,” about a man’s search for his missing nephew, won for fiction. Scott Anderson’s “King of Kings,” which explores the Iranian Revolution, took the nonfiction prize. Thao Lam’s picture book “Everybelly,” celebrating belly buttons, won for young readers’ literature. The prizes, established in 2014, are overseen by Kirkus Reviews. Editor-in-chief Tom Beer praised the winners for their messages on community, self-transformation, and history. Finalists included works by Angela Flournoy, Nicholas Boggs and Arundhati Roy.

National Book Award finalists announced: Alameddine, Majumdar, Li and Russell are among the nominees

October 7, 2025

Fiction by Rabih Alameddine, Megha Majumdar, and Karen Russell, along with a memoir by Yiyun Li, are among this year’s National Book Award finalists. On Tuesday, the National Book Foundation announced five nominees in each of five categories. Winners will be revealed on Nov. 19 in Manhattan. Honorary awards will go to George Saunders and Roxane Gay. Majumdar’s novel “A Guardian and a Thief” is a fiction finalist. Li’s memoir “Things in Nature Merely Grow” is a nonfiction finalist. Other categories include poetry, translated literature and young people’s literature. Each winner receives $10,000.

US book publishers honor Russian dissident house Freedom Letters

October 3, 2025

The Association of American Publishers is honoring a Russian publishing house for its fight against censorship. The group announced Friday that Freedom Letters and its founder, Georgy Urushadze, will receive the International Freedom to Publish Award. Urushadze fled Russia in 2022 after opposing the invasion of Ukraine and being labeled a “foreign agent.” Freedom Letters, established over two years ago, operates mainly out of Ukraine, Latvia, and Georgia. It publishes works by anti-war writers and opponents of President Putin. The house is banned in Russia, but Urushadze says he continues to sell books there online.

Stephen King is the most banned author in US schools, PEN report says

October 1, 2025

A new report on book bans in U.S. schools finds Stephen King as the author most likely to be censored. PEN America’s “Banned in the USA,” released Wednesday, tracks over 6,800 instances of books being pulled for the 2024-2025 school year. This number is down from over 10,000 in 2023-24. Around 80% of these bans originated in Florida, Texas, and Tennessee. Meanwhile, states like Maryland and New Jersey have laws limiting book removals. According to PEN, King’s books were censored 206 times, with “Carrie” and “The Stand” among the affected works. Reasons for bans often include LGBTQ+ themes and depictions of race.

Jane Fonda revives Cold War-era activist group to defend free speech

October 1, 2025

Jane Fonda has revived an activist group from the Cold War era, originally backed by her father, Henry Fonda. On Wednesday, she announced the launch of a modern version of the Committee for the First Amendment. This group was initially formed in 1947 to support screenwriters and directors targeted for alleged Communist ties. The new mission statement is signed by Florence Pugh, Sean Penn, Billie Eilish, Pedro Pascal and hundreds of others. The Fondas have a long history of activism, with Jane opposing the Vietnam War and Henry supporting Democratic candidates.

Powerhouse attorney Robert B. Barnett, known for representing the Obamas and Clintons, dies

September 26, 2025

The Washington attorney who brokered book deals for Barack Obama, George W. Bush and dozens of other government leaders has died at age 79. Robert B. Barnett was a fixture in the political and publishing worlds for decades and had a client list like no other. He represented everyone from Hillary Clinton and Edward M. Kennedy to Dick Cheney and Mitch McConnell. He embodied an era when it was possible to work freely with both Democrats and Republicans and embodied the maxim that politics stops at the edge of a good book deal.

FILE - Mystery novelist and screenwriter Raymond Chandler appears in 1946. (AP Photo, File)

A piano, a pregnant woman and a prison: Raymond Chandler’s ‘Nightmare’ is revealed

September 23, 2025

Raymond Chandler’s “Nightmare,” a rarely seen sketch, has been published this week in The Strand Magazine. The piece imagines Chandler in prison for a murder he can’t remember committing. His cellmates include strangers, a pregnant woman, and a piano that must be played lying down after nine o’clock. The story becomes even darker as Chandler learns of his likely execution. “Nightmare” was found among the papers of Chandler’s assistant, Jean Vounder-Davis, and was purchased at auction by Strand Managing Editor Andrew F. Gulli. Chandler scholar Tom Williams finds the piece intriguing, especially its reference to rejection.

George Takei to lead Banned Books Week, urging the fight against censorship

September 22, 2025

Actor and activist George Takei is taking on a new role as honorary chair of Banned Books Week. The American Library Association announced Monday that the 88-year-old will lead the event, which runs from Oct. 5-11. Banned Books Week highlights censored works like “Gender Queer” and “The Bluest Eye.” Takei, who spent part of his childhood in a Japanese internment camp, emphasizes the importance of access to books. He will share leadership with Iris Mogul, a student active in anti-banning campaigns. Previous chairs include Ava DuVernay and LeVar Burton.

FILE - Japanese novelist Haruki Murakami sits for photos during a news conference at the Waseda University in Tokyo on Sept. 22, 2021. (AP Photo/Eugene Hoshiko, File)

Haruki Murakami to be celebrated with an evening of words and music in New York City

September 18, 2025

Haruki Murakami will be honored in December with an evening of words and music. The Japan Society and The Town Hall are presenting “The Murakami Mix Tape,” featuring readings from his books and performances by jazz artist Jason Moran and others. The event draws from the many musical references in Murakami’s works. Murakami is expected to give opening remarks at the Dec. 11 event at The Town Hall. Japan Society President Joshua W. Walker expressed excitement about celebrating Murakami in New York City. Murakami, a perennial Nobel Prize candidate, is known for novels like “IQ84” and “Norwegian Wood.”

Robert Caro reflects on childhood as he receives New York Historical’s Historians’ Laureate Medal

September 17, 2025

Robert Caro has received the first-ever Historians’ Laureate Medal from The New York Historical. Speaking Wednesday night, Caro reflected on his childhood visits to the institution. A native New Yorker, he shared how special this award is to him. Caro turns 90 next month and is known for his Pulitzer Prize-winning biography of Robert Moses and his Lyndon Johnson series. His career is celebrated at the institution with a permanent exhibition. Also on Wednesday, the History Makers Award went to conductor Gustavo Dudamel. Dudamel expressed excitement about his new role with the New York Philharmonic.

Music Review: ‘Buckingham Nicks’ is an engaging blueprint for the classics to come

September 17, 2025

The long-awaited digital reissue of “Buckingham Nicks” offers two perspectives on the 1973 pre-Fleetwood Mac album by Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks. For newcomers, it’s a taste of vintage Los Angeles singer-songwriter pop with folkish stylings and well-crafted melodies. Songs like “Crying in the Night” and “Races Are Run” stand out. For longtime fans, it’s a treasure trove of clues and portents, hinting at future Fleetwood Mac hits. The Associated Press’ Hillel Italie writes that the reissue enhances the sound quality, bringing a welcome clarity, but it lacks the anchor that Mick Fleetwood and John McVie later provided.

FILE - Actor Robert Redford, left, and director Sydney Pollack appear at the Cannes Film Festival before the presentation of their film "Jeremiah Johnson" in Cannes, France, on May 6, 1972. (AP Photo/Jean Jacques Levy, File)

Robert Redford remembered for his deep legacy in environmental activism and Native American advocacy

September 16, 2025

Robert Redford, who died Tuesday at 89, was known for his deep commitment to activism, especially for Native American rights and the environment. In the 1970s, while starring in films like “The Sting,” he became involved in the environmental movement. He successfully opposed a power plant in Utah and supported landmark bills like the Clean Air Act. He was a guiding force on the board of the Natural Resources Defense Council. Fellow actors and activists praised his humility and dedication. Leonardo DiCaprio called him a staunch environmental leader, highlighting his significant legacy in Hollywood and beyond.

Joy Reid speaks during the during the TIME 100 Summit, April 23, 2019, in New York, left, and Percival Everett appears at the Booker Prize award dinner in London, Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2024. (AP Photo)

Joy Reid and Percival Everett are among winners of the 46th annual American Book Awards

September 15, 2025

Former MSNBC host Joy Reid and authors Percival Everett and John Edgar Wideman are among this year’s recipients of the American Book Awards. The awards announced Monday celebrate diversity in American art and culture and are presented by the Before Columbus Foundation. Reid, who left MSNBC in February, received the foundation’s anti-censorship prize. Wideman won a lifetime achievement award. Honorees for current works include Everett for “James,” his Pulitzer Prize-winning retelling of “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn”; Kaveh Akbar for “Martyr!”; Danzy Senna for “Colored Television” and Claire Messud for “This Strange Eventful History.” The awards aim to recognize literary excellence without limitations, reflecting diversity naturally.

National Book Awards longlists include new works by Angela Flournoy, Susan Choi and Yiyun Li

September 12, 2025

The National Book Foundation has announced the longlists for the National Book Awards. New fiction by Angela Flournoy and Susan Choi, a tragic memoir by Yiyun Li and a historical novel by Nobel laureate Han Kang are among the nominees. The foundation revealed 10 books in each of five categories: fiction, nonfiction, poetry, translation and young people’s literature. The categories will be narrowed to five finalists on Oct. 7, with winners announced at a Nov. 19 ceremony in Manhattan. Honorary awards will also be presented to author George Saunders and author-publisher Roxane Gay.

Dan Brown on his new book, ‘The Secret of Secrets,’ and how he manages the writing process

September 10, 2025

Dan Brown’s latest thriller, “The Secret of Secrets,” has been published this week. Known for “The Da Vinci Code” and “Angels & Demons,” Brown, in his new book, explores themes of consciousness and what happens after we die, inspired by his personal reflections following his mother’s death. Brown once again combines suspense, codes, and secret societies. This time, protagonist Robert Langdon is in Prague, racing to uncover the key to ultimate wisdom. Brown explains that writing a thriller requires a detailed plan to keep the complex plots organized. He writes daily and uses a wall of notes and diagrams to track the story. Brown says his views on mortality have evolved, influenced by conversations with philosophers and scientists.

Oprah Winfrey selects Elizabeth Gilbert’s new memoir for her book club

September 9, 2025

Oprah Winfrey’s new book club pick is Elizabeth Gilbert’s memoir, “All the Way to the River.” In the book, published this week, Gilbert shares a consuming love affair with a self-destructive, terminally ill woman named Rayya. Gilbert left her husband for Rayya. She continues her history of transformation since her million-selling phenomenon, “Eat, Pray, Love.” Winfrey praised the memoir as powerful and healing. Last week, New York magazine published an excerpt. And The New Yorker reviewed it, sparking online discussion. Gilbert expressed surprise and honor at receiving Winfrey’s endorsement, calling it an extraordinary moment.

From slaughterhouse worker to literary giant: George Saunders wins National Book Award

September 5, 2025

George Saunders has been named this year’s winner of the National Book Award for Distinguished Contributions to American Letters. The National Book Foundation announced the honor on Friday. Saunders, known for his bestselling short story collection “Tenth of December,” is celebrated for his unique blend of humor, poignant narratives and social commentary. At 66, he is the youngest recipient since 2004. His work often combines dark humor with a deep faith in humanity. Saunders’ first novel, “Lincoln in the Bardo,” won the Booker Prize in 2017. His next novel, “Vigil,” is set for release early next year.

Brothers of Virginia Giuffre, Daniel Wilson, left, and Sky Roberts, second from left, Amanda Roberts, second from right, and Annie Farmer, right, listen during a Stand with Survivors Rally on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Rod Lamkey, Jr.)

Publisher agrees to changes in Virginia Giuffre’s memoir after family objections

September 3, 2025

The publisher of Virginia Giuffre’s posthumous memoir, “Nobody’s Girl,” has finalized a draft with her family after they raised concerns. Giuffre, an accuser of Jeffrey Epstein, died by suicide in April. Her family worried the book portrayed an overly positive view of her marriage, which ended before her death. Knopf, the publisher, says they worked with Giuffre’s family to ensure her voice is heard. The book is set to be released on October 21. Giuffre had alleged she was part of Epstein’s sex-trafficking ring and was exploited by powerful men, including Prince Andrew.

FILE - Patrick Hemingway, son of famed author Ernest Hemingway, stands for a photo in Tanzania on Feb. 28, 1969. (AP Photo/Nair, File)

Patrick Hemingway, Ernest Hemingway’s last surviving child, dies at 97

September 3, 2025

Patrick Hemingway, the last surviving child of Ernest Hemingway who in emulation of his father lived for years in Africa and later oversaw numerous posthumous works by the Nobel laureate, has died. He was 97. As an executor of his father’s estate, he approved reissues of such classics as “A Farewell to Arms” and “A Moveable Feast,” featuring revised texts and additional commentary from Patrick Hemingway and others. While brother Gregory Hemingway had a deeply troubled relationship with his famous father, Patrick Hemingway spoke proudly of his heritage and welcomed the chance to bring up the family name.

Children's book author Maurice Sendak appears at his home in Ridgefield, Conn., on Sept. 6 2011, left, and author Stephen King appears at the premiere of "The Life of Chuck" during the Toronto International Film Festival on Sept. 6, 2024. (AP Photo)

Stephen King reimagines ‘Hansel and Gretel’ with Maurice Sendak’s unpublished drawings

September 2, 2025

Stephen King has collaborated on a new project, a retelling of “Hansel and Gretel” using unpublished drawings by Maurice Sendak. The book, which comes out this week, was a healing project for King after a painful hip replacement. He says fairy tales are meant ‘to be scary’ and offer “children a taste of adult emotions” with a happy ending. King stayed true to the original story but added a dream sequence and removed a plot about a duck. He enjoyed the challenge of fitting his words to Sendak’s illustrations and is open to trying new projects in the future.

Kirkus Prize finalists include Angela Flournoy, Kiran Desai and Megha Majumdar

August 27, 2025

Novels by Angela Flournoy, Kiran Desai and Megha Majumdar, along with a memoir by Arundhati Roy, are finalists for the Kirkus Prize. The award offers a $50,000 cash prize for winners in fiction, nonfiction and young readers’ literature. Kirkus announced six nominees in each category on Wednesday. Desai’s novel is also shortlisted for the Booker Prize. Flournoy’s and Majumdar’s novels are their first releases in years. Other finalists include works by Allegra Goodman, Lucas Schafer and David Szalay. Winners will be announced on Oct. 8.

FILE - A book published by Simon & Schuster is displayed on July 30, 2022, in Tigard, Ore. (AP Photo/Jenny Kane, File)

Simon & Schuster CEO Jonathan Karp steps down to launch new imprint

August 26, 2025

Jonathan Karp, CEO of Simon & Schuster, is stepping down to lead a new imprint at the publisher. He announced Tuesday that he wants to focus on authors and editing. Karp became CEO in 2020, following Carolyn Reidy’s sudden death. His tenure included navigating the pandemic and a blocked sale to Penguin Random House. In 2023, Simon & Schuster was sold to KKR for $1.62 billion. Karp will launch Simon Six, publishing six books a year, similar to his previous imprint, Twelve. A search for his successor is underway, and he will remain as CEO until one is chosen.

FILE - Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., participates in a debate with Sen. Dave McCormick, R-Pa., not shown, at the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate, June 2, 2025, in Boston, as live-streamed on Fox Nation. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)

The fall’s 10 most anticipated books, from Pynchon to (Priscilla) Presley

August 22, 2025

Fall is the time for publishers to release their most anticipated literary fiction, and this season will feature new books from Thomas Pynchon, Kiran Desai and Ian McEwan among others. But it’s also a moment for genres ranging from celebrity memoirs to crime novels to children’s stories. Some works, including Pynchon’s “Shadow Ticket,” were more than a decade in the making. Others will arrive quickly to catch readers up on the recent past. Former Vice President Kamala Harris’ “107 Days” is a campaign memoir that arrives just months after she left office.

This combination of images shows Robert Caro posing for a portrait in New York on Sept. 11, 2024, left, and Gustavo Dudamel at the 2023 Los Angeles Philharmonic Gala, on Oct. 5, 2023. (AP Photo)

Robert A. Caro named first-ever Founders Historian Laureate by The New York Historical

August 14, 2025

Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Robert A. Caro has been named the first-ever Founders Historian Laureate by The New York Historical. The museum, where Caro’s archives are stored, also has a research room named after him. Caro, a lifelong New Yorker, is known for his work on Robert Moses and his Lyndon Johnson biographies. He is currently writing the final volume of the series. The honor will be formally presented at a gala on September 17th. Grammy-winning conductor Gustavo Dudamel will also receive a History Makers Award at the event.

Owner Michelle Souliere, left, chats with a frequent customer at the Green Hand Bookstore in Portland, Maine, on Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty)

From Stephen King to New Jersey diners, History Press books cover local lore around the US

August 8, 2025

A writer from Maine, Sharon Kitchens has turned her passion for Stephen King’s books into a published work. Her book, “Stephen King’s Maine,” explores the real-life settings and inspirations behind King’s stories. Published by The History Press, it’s part of a series focused on regional and local histories. The History Press is now part of Arcadia Publishing and aims to make community histories accessible. Kitchens’ book gained attention after Stephen King endorsed it on Instagram. The History Press often works with local specialists who are passionate about preserving their community’s history, offering them a platform to share untold stories.

This combination of images shows author James Patterson during a portrait session in New York on Aug. 30, 2016, left, and Luigi Mangione, who is accused of fatally shooting the UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, at a hearing in New York on Feb. 25, 2025. (AP Photo, left and New York Post Pool via AP)

James Patterson and Vicky Ward to write book on UnitedHealthcare CEO’s killing

August 6, 2025

James Patterson and Vicky Ward are collaborating on a new book about the fatal shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. The book will explore the hunt for his alleged killer, Luigi Mangione. Little, Brown & Company announced the project, which currently has no title or release date. Patterson and Ward plan to use exclusive interviews, firsthand reporting and court transcripts. Mangione has pleaded not guilty to a federal murder charge for the December shooting. Patterson describes the story as “the American Dream Gone Wrong.” The pair’s previous book, “The Idaho Four,” became a national bestseller last month.

Oprah Winfrey picks Richard Russo’s ‘Bridge of Sighs’ for her book club

August 5, 2025

Oprah Winfrey has selected Richard Russo’s novel “Bridge of Sighs” for her book club. The 2007 novel is set in a rural New York community. Winfrey announced the pick on Tuesday. Russo, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author, often writes about small Northeastern towns. His works include “Nobody’s Fool” and “Empire Falls,” which won a Pulitzer in 2002. Russo expressed his excitement about introducing his work to a new generation. A conversation between Winfrey and Russo is available on her YouTube channel. Winfrey praised the book as a “classic summer read” filled with romance and family drama.

FILE - People visit the Smithsonian Museum of American History on the National Mall in Washington, April 3, 2019. (AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais, File)

The Smithsonian removes a Trump impeachment reference from an exhibit but says it’s temporary

August 1, 2025

The Smithsonian Institution has removed a reference to President Donald Trump’s impeachments from an exhibit. It says it’s temporary. This decision comes as the White House presses for a more positive view of American history. A label about impeachment was added in 2021 to the National Museum for American History’s exhibit on presidential power. Smithsonian spokesperson Phillip Zimmerman said the section needed an overhaul. Trump is the only president impeached twice, in 2019 and 2021. Zimmerman says the impeachment reference will be restored after revisions. Since January, Trump has demanded changes across Washington cultural institutions, including the Smithsonian, the Library of Congress, and the Kennedy Center.

Pulitzer-winning novel ‘James’ is up for another major honor

July 14, 2025

Percival Everett’s Pulitzer-winning novel, “James,” is a nominee for the Dayton Literary Peace Prize. The book is a retelling of Mark Twain’s “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn,” and has already won the National Book Award and Kirkus Prize. The Dayton prize, established in 1995, honors works promoting peace and includes a $10,000 award. The Dayton prize foundation announced Monday that David Greenberg’s biography “John Lewis” about the late civil rights activist and congressman is a nonfiction finalist. Other fiction nominees include works by Priscilla Morris and Kristin Hannah. The nonfiction list features titles by Sunil Amrith and Wendy Pearlman. Winners will be revealed in September.

FILE - Author Martin Cruz Smith appears at his home in Mill Valley, Calif., on Aug. 13, 1999. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg, File)

Martin Cruz Smith, acclaimed author of ‘Gorky Park,’ dies at 82

July 14, 2025

Mystery novelist Martin Cruz Smith, known for such Arkady Renko thrillers as “Gorky Park,” has died at age 82. His publisher, Simon & Schuster, confirmed that he died Friday in San Rafael, California, surrounded by loved ones. Smith, who had Parkinson’s disease, gave the same condition to his famous protagonist, Renko. His final Renko novel, “Hotel Ukraine,” will be published this week. Smith’s career spanned decades, with honors including a Gold Dagger award for “Gorky Park,” which became a bestseller and a film. His works often explored Soviet and Russian history, and were praised for blending sharp characters with compelling plots.

Stephen King to narrate ‘Hansel and Gretel’ audiobook with Maurice Sendak’s illustrations

July 10, 2025

Stephen King narrates a new audiobook version of “Hansel and Gretel,” blending his storytelling with Maurice Sendak’s illustrations. The Maurice Sendak Foundation announced Thursday that King’s reading adds captivating depth to the classic fairy tale. The audiobook releases on Sept. 2, alongside the new picture book. This reimagining is based on Sendak’s sketches for a 1997 opera about two children lost in a forest. Sendak, who died in 2012, was known for such classic books as “Where the Wild Things Are.” King’s many novels include “Carrie” and “The Stand.”

FILE - George Harrison performs at a concert in London on April 6, 1992. (AP Photo/Max Nash, File)

George Harrison’s Beatles-era photos to be released in new book

July 10, 2025

A new book of Beatles-era photographs by George Harrison will be released in Fall 2026. Random House announced Thursday that “The Third Eye” features over 250 images, many unpublished, taken between 1963 and 1969. The book was compiled by Harrison’s widow, Olivia Harrison. It captures moments from Liverpool to India and Shea Stadium. Olivia says the photos reflect George’s unique perspective during the Beatles’ early years. The book includes essays by Olivia, Irish novelist Colm Tóibín, and American author George Saunders, along with George’s own words. Fellow Beatles Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr have also published photo books.

‘Hostage,’ Eli Sharabi’s memoir about life in Hamas captivity, is coming to the US

July 8, 2025

An Israeli man’s memoir about being held captive by Hamas is set for U.S. release. Eli Sharabi’s *Hostage,” originally written in Hebrew, has already become a bestseller in Israel. Harper Influence announced Tuesday that the English edition will be published on Oct. 7, marking the two-year anniversary of the 2023 attack. Sharabi, released in February, shares his harrowing experience of abduction and captivity in Gaza. The memoir details his bond with fellow hostages and how his faith helped him endure. Sharabi hopes his story sheds light on life in captivity and inspires humanity.

FILE - Portraits of a red-headed Thomas Jefferson, left, and John Dickinson, right, by by Charles Willson Peale are seen at the refurbished Second Bank of the United States in Philadelphia on Nov. 26, 2004. (AP Photo/Jacqueline Larma, File)

A year before declaring independence, colonists offered ‘Olive Branch’ petition to King George III

July 3, 2025

Millions of protesters have denounced President Donald Trump as a would-be autocrat and marched under the banner “No Kings.” But at the same point 250 years ago, in the summer of 1775, the mood was more cautious. Even after the bloodied conflicts of Lexington and Concord and Bunker Hill, many Americans were not ready to break from King George III and call for independence from Britain. Almost exactly a year to the day before the Declaration of Independence, the Continental Congress ratified the “Olive Branch Petition,” a plea for peace with “the Mother country”

Colonial soldiers prepare to face the British during a reenactment in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Bunker Hill, Saturday, June 21, 2025, in Gloucester, Mass. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)

The US commemorates 250th anniversary of the ‘great American battle,’ the Battle of Bunker Hill

June 21, 2025

As the U.S. marks the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Bunker Hill, it might take a moment — or more — to remember why. Start with the very name. “There’s something percussive about it: Battle of Bunker Hill,” says prize-winning historian Nathaniel Philbrick. Much of the world looks to the Battle of Lexington and Concord, fought on April 19, 1775, as the start of the American Revolution. But many scholars cite Bunker Hill and June 17 as the real beginning, the first time British and rebel forces faced off in sustained conflict over a specific piece of territory.

FILE - Author Edmund White appears in his New York apartment on April 24, 2006. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan, File)

How groundbreaking gay author Edmund White paved the way for other writers

June 6, 2025

Edmund White, a pioneer of contemporary gay literature, died this week at age 85. He left behind such widely read works as “A Boy’s Own Story” and “The Beautiful Room Is Empty” and a priceless gift to countless younger writers. Validation of their lives, the discovery of themselves through the stories of others. Pulitzer Prize winner Andrew Sean Greer says “Ed invented so many of us.” A National Book Award finalist and other authors speak of White’s work as more than just an influence, but as a rite of passage to read.

FILE - White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre speaks during the daily briefing at the White House in Washington, Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh, File)

Ex-White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre left Democratic Party, publisher of her book says

June 4, 2025

Former White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre has a book out this fall that promises a close look at President Joe Biden’s decision not to run for reelection and calls for thinking beyond the two-party system. Legacy Lit says Jean-Pierre has switched her affiliation to independent after working in two Democratic administrations. The Hachette Book Group imprint will publish “Independent: A Look Inside a Broken White House, Outside the Party Lines” on Oct. 21. Jean-Pierre was the first Black woman and openly gay person to hold the position of White House press secretary.

FILE - Former CIA director William Burns speaks during a hearing, March 11, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein, File)

Former CIA Director William Burns has a book deal for the memoir ‘Diplomat Spy’

June 3, 2025

Former CIA director and Biden cabinet official William J. Burns is working on a book about his years leading the intelligence agency. Random House announced Tuesday that it would publish Burns’ “Diplomat Spy: A Memoir of Espionage in Revolutionary Times.” The release date is still to be determined. Burns headed the CIA from 2021-25 and was elevated by President Joe Biden to a cabinet position. A veteran diplomat, he was a key adviser to Biden on Ukraine and other parts of the world. Random House is calling his book a “riveting firsthand account” about working in intelligence.

Former Creedence Clearwater front man John Fogerty celebrates 80th with show in Manhattan

May 29, 2025

As he turned 80 this week, John Fogerty was in a mood to honor his past and to revise it. Fogerty played a rowdy 100-minute set Thursday night to an adoring, near-capacity audience at Manhattan’s Beacon Theatre. Crowd members spanned from those likely to remember “Proud Mary,” “Fortunate Son” and other Creedence Clearwater Revival hits when first released a half-century ago to those looking young enough to have heard about them through their grandparents. At least from a distance, Fogerty didn’t look or sound much different from his prime with Creedence.

Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o, Kenyan author and dissident who became a giant of modern literature, dies at 87

May 28, 2025

One of the world’s most acclaimed writers, Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o, has died at 87. A publicist for his U.S. publisher confirmed the death Wednesday. The Kenyan man of letters wrote dozens of fiction and nonfiction books that traced his country’s history from British imperialism to home-ruled tyranny and challenged not only the stories told but the language used to tell them. Whether through novels such as “The Wizard of the Crow” or “Petals of Blood,” or his landmark critique “Decolonizing the Mind,” Ngũgĩ embodied the very heights of the artist’s calling. He was a truth teller, rule breaker and explorer of myth.

FILE - Susan Brownmiller poses on the streets of lower Manhattan in New York, Oct. 18, 1975. (AP Photo/Suzanne Vlamis, File)

Susan Brownmiller, author of the landmark book on sexual assault, ‘Against Our Will,’ dies at 90

May 25, 2025

Susan Brownmiller, a prominent feminist and author of the 1960s and ’70s whose “Against Our Will” was a landmark and debated bestseller about rape, has died. She was 90. A journalist, anti-war protester and civil rights activist before joining the feminist movement in its formative years, Brownmiller was among countless women radicalized in the ‘60s and ’70s and part of the much smaller circle that included Gloria Steinem, Betty Friedan and Kate Millett who helped radicalize others. “Against Our Will,” published in 1975 and widely read and taught for decades after, documented the roots, prevalence and politics of rape.

HILLEL ITALIE National Writer.

Finance.