Small Worlds by Caleb Azumah Nelson is a novel of family and freedom as one young man navigates coming of age as a Londoner born to Ghanian parents. Nelson joins us to talk about the change and growth in his second book, visiting Ghana while writing, the importance of place and more.

In her short story collection, Temple Folk, Aaliyah Bilal examines and illuminates some of the realities of the Black Muslim experience through her stunning prose and deep characters. Bilal talks with us on how she came to short stories, the impact of community, the influences that shape her as an author and more.

This episode of Poured Over was hosted by Miwa Messer and mixed by Harry Liang.

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Featured Books (Episode):

Small Worlds by Caleb Azumah Nelson

Temple Folk by Aaliyah Bilal

Open Water by Caleb Azumah Nelson

NW by Zadie Smith

Lot by Bryan Washington

Family Meal by Bryan Washington

Jazz by Toni Morrison

Corregidora by Gayl Jones

Lost in the City by Edward P. Jones

The Turner House by Angela Flournoy

The Sword and the Shield by Peniel Joseph