BOOKS

Today we host a roundtable discussion with four local organizations who are facing real-life material consequences from widespread federal funding cuts.

Diving into a more than 150 year old tradition, one a law, that is still upheld by a couple of small Massachusetts towns and supports Massachusetts libraries.

We speak with author Heidi Stemple about her latest book, "The Poetry of Car Mechanics," agonize over better words to describe terrible things with Word Nerd Emily Brewster and check out the arborvitae at Amherst Nurseries.

We talk with Mr. Universe about funding cuts to scientific research and education, find out about the expansion of the Mass Kids Lit Festival and check in with the Center for New Americans they face changes in programming.

We learn about some exciting upcoming productions from Nero Orchestra and Eggtooth Productions and the nuances behind depicting the history of enslavement in picture books.

Competitive alpine skiing mother-daughter duo and their complex relationship is at the center of Mass. author Megan Tady's novel "Bluebird Day."

We examine the past with Ilan Stavans new book, "Lamentations of Nezahualcóyotl," and check out Barnard's star with Mr. Universe.

We discuss family storytelling with picture book "Jane Writes a Play," learn about this weekend's Queer Story Slam, and McGovern with Rep. Jim McGovern.

We talk to author John Sayles about his new book, "To Save the Man," that dives into the history of the Carlisle Indian Industrial School, and get schooled by the Word Nerd.

The debut novel from Deborah Benoit of North Adams, Massachusetts, combines her love of gardening and mysteries.