The podcast episode for the first book club pick 2020 is here!  Sorry again for the interruption in programming. Please join us as we discuss themes of immigration, trauma and ultimate freedom on one's own terms.

Black Feminist & Bookish

"Interpreter of Maladies"

Riveting. Unsettling. Complicated. Triggering.  All adjectives used to describe this book.  I concur.  Please join Anne and me as we reflect on many of the themes presented in this book specifically, what is "normal."

The Convenience Store Women

It's been a few months since we've posted an episode.  Before sharing why and begging for your forgiveness, Kalima discusses social responsibility in the time of COVID19.

Edited: Allyship, Apologies & The Future.

We are excited to announce that "Conversations from the Cafe" will now be "Black Feminist & Bookish". Listen to the teaser to hear why we changed!

NAME CHANGE: Black Feminist & Bookish

Our producer, Claire, guest hosts this episode in conversation with Jo about Carmen Maria Machado's collection of genre-bending short stories that challenge traditional writing techniques and her spin on common "tropes".

"Her Body and Other Parties" by Carmen Maria Machado

Kalima and Shrishti dive into sci-fi and discuss the artful world building and major twists in the first book of a trilogy. (Spoiler Alerts)

"The Fifth Season" by N.K. Jemisin

In the book club's second dance with romance, Kathy and Kalima gush over how much they love the explicit Feminist themes of this book and why this is a must read for folx looking for romance outside the traditional normal troupes. Produced & Edited by Ryan Cameron.

"The Kiss Quotient" by Helen Hoang

Peter's book selection this month was kismet as the book club grieved the loss of Toni Morrison. In this episode, Kalima & Peter reflect on their own life experiences and confront conflicting empathetic feelings as Morrison's seminal piece dives into topics of race, gender, and intergenerational trauma.

"The Bluest Eye" by Toni Morrison

Rebekkah and Kalima navigate through their first romance novel and discover the void of black romance authors. *In a previous iteration of this episode, Kalima mentioned meeting Alyssa Cole.  This was a case of mistaken identity.  Kalima met another local author who is also a romance novelists.  She talked passionately about Alyssa's work.  Later, when the community member dropped off Ms. Cole's books, Kalima assumed it was Alyssa Cole.  We apologize for the mistake.

"The Proposal" by Jasmine Guillory

Caroline joins Kalima for an introspective dialogue about power dynamics in relationships, open communication, and what it means to be “normal”.  Support small bookstores by ordering this book or ANY book from Cafe Con Libros

"Normal People" by Sally Rooney

Kalima and Ashleigh discuss the shortcomings of sexual education while addressing the concerns and realities for young women today who are navigating through their sexuality.  Note to listeners that sensitive topics related to sex are discussed. 

"Girls & Sex" by Peggy Orenstein

Kalima & Cristina express their thoughts on what the world would be like if women suddenly obtained a superpower giving them power over men in a new society. 

"The Power" by Naomi Alderman

Kalima & Blessing reflect on the ideas presented by Bell Hooks to love better in romantic relationships, friendships, family, and spiritual connections. 

"All About Love: New Visions" by Bell Hook

Kalima and Claire discuss female friendships and how the slew of troubles in a poor neighborhood in 1950s Naples are still relatable today.

"My Brilliant Friend" by Elena Ferrante

Kalima, owner of Café Con Libros, talks with book club member, Ma-Nyahn, about the power of saying yes and equally to say no.

"The Year of Yes" by Shonda Rhimes

A monthly book club discussion from Cafe Con Libros, a Feminist Community Bookstore and Coffee Shop in Brooklyn. Each month, Kalima DeSuze gets nerdy and intimate while interviewing a community member about their perspective on the book. They also take time to reflect on the book club discussion and share their favorite things about Brooklyn. Produced by Claire Franjola. Edited by Ryan Cameron.

hubhopper

Black Feminist & Bookish

hubhopper