I’m hosting a virtual book discussion with author Ursula Villarreal-Moura about her debut novel, LIKE HAPPINESS, to raise money for her friends in Palestine. (We’re asking participants to donate at least $10.) Details in this Substack post:

substack.com/@pubcheerlea...

If you’re in the Chicago area, I’ll be in conversation with David Ambroz tomorrow at Printers Row Lit Fest about his inspiring memoir A PLACE CALLED HOME. We’ll be at the North Stage at 1pm. Hope to see you there!

This incredible novel is the first Youssef Rakha wrote in English. You can read a mini interview with him over on Substack: pubcheerleader.substack.com/p/interview-...

Happy pub day @saralippmann.bsky.social! Can’t wait to read SMASHING THE TABLETS!

(And if anyone needs a copy still, here’s a coupon code!)

I wrote about this important book (out now with @haymarketbooks.org!) and how the issue of mass incarceration has become more personal to me for @chicagorevbooks.bsky.social. You can check it out here:

chireviewofbooks.com/2025/03/06/r...

Infinite thanks to @meganstielstra.bsky.social for believing in this story.

I have so much love, admiration, and respect for Megan, @nupress.bsky.social, @marisaemily.bsky.social, and the rest of the NUP team, this is a literal dream come true.✨