The Asterisk* is a literary interview podcast produced by the Anisfield-Wolf Book Awards, the longest-running American book prize dedicated to works illuminating racism and celebrating cultural diversity. Hosted by veteran literary critic Karen R. Long, each episode features in-depth conversations with past AWBA-winning authors—poets, novelists, and nonfiction writers—exploring the stories, research, and personal journeys behind their acclaimed books. Episodes dig into the "holes" or omissions in public understanding of these works, examining themes like dehumanization, historical erasure, racial identity, and the power of poetry and prose to reclaim marginalized narratives. With guests ranging from Pulitzer Prize winners to Guggenheim fellows, the show appeals to avid readers, educators, and anyone interested in social justice, African American history, and the craft of writing. Its tone is thoughtful, scholarly yet accessible, blending literary criticism with biographical insight. Ideal for fans of author interviews, humanities-focused discussions, and podcasts that bridge literature with contemporary conversations on race and culture.
The Asterisk* is a literary interview podcast produced by the Anisfield-Wolf Book Awards, the longest-running American book prize dedicated to works illuminating racism and celebrating cultural diversity. Hosted by veteran literary critic Karen R. Long, each episode features in-depth conversations with past AWBA-winning authors—poets, novelists, and nonfiction writers—exploring the stories, research, and personal journeys behind their acclaimed books. Episodes dig into the "holes" or omissions in public understanding of these works, examining themes like dehumanization, historical erasure, racial identity, and the power of poetry and prose to reclaim marginalized narratives. With guests ranging from Pulitzer Prize winners to Guggenheim fellows, the show appeals to avid readers, educators, and anyone interested in social justice, African American history, and the craft of writing. Its tone is thoughtful, scholarly yet accessible, blending literary criticism with biographical insight. Ideal for fans of author interviews, humanities-focused discussions, and podcasts that bridge literature with contemporary conversations on race and culture.
