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Weighing the Book's Flaws and Virtues

Language commentator Geoff Nunberg believes the book, on its surface, is the ideal medium for presenting text. But it has its limitations: books take up space, wear out, and impose linearity on the information they contain. While technological advancements may render some books obsolete, Nunberg says that nothing can match the pleasure of reading ink on paper.

03:35
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Other segments from the episode on February 9, 1989

Fresh Air with Terry Gross, February 9, 1989: Interview with Howard Hesseman; Review of Lyle Lovett's album "Lyle Lovett and His Large Band"; Interview with Frank Chin; Commentary on this history of…
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26:55

TV Actor Howard Hesseman

Hesseman played disc jockey Dr. Johnny Fever in WKRP in Cincinnati, and now stars as a high school teacher in the comedy Head of the Class. He tells Fresh Air's Terry Gross about how his performances and personal experiences inform each other. Early in his career, Hesseman sold two ounces of marijuana to an undercover police officer; he later had his record expunged.

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09:25

Seeking Authenticity in Chinese American Literature

Frank Chin is critical of many other contemporary Asian American writers; their works, he says, rely too much on western forms, cater to white audiences, and misrepresent Asian culture. His new collection of short stories, The Chinaman Pacific & Frisco R.R. Co, reveals his own perspectives on the Chinese American experience.

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The 10 Best Books Of 2016 Faced Tough Topics Head On

I hesitate to say it, but the one word that characterizes my best books of 2016 list is "serious." These books aren't grim and they're certainly not dull, but collectively they're serious about tackling big, sometimes difficult subjects — and they're also distinguished by seriously good writing. Here are 10 that you shouldn't miss.

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