“To Lie and Toke in LA” by Michael Estrin

The first time I bought weed in Los Angeles, I listened to—and talked about—vintage synthesizers for hours. I was high . . .

Stacy Wakefield: On Writing The Sunshine Crust Baking Factory

To celebrate the release of The Sunshine Crust Baking Factory, we’re pleased to feature a statement from author Stacy Wakefield on how her own firsthand experiences in with squatting shaped her novel.

Changers Book One: Drew is a NYPL summer reading pick!

Changers Book One: Drew has been chosen to be part of the New York Public Library’s Summer Reading Challenge! Click for more information, and to read a very special note from a Changers fan.

Eliza Factor: On Writing Love Maps

To celebrate the release of Love Maps, we’re pleased to feature a statement from author Eliza Factor on how her latest novel came to be.

“Synchronicity Two” by Chuck Nwoke

“I’m night-weaning Emeka,” my wife Anna alerted me when I met her in the park after a run . . .

“Taking the Cyclone” by Howard Gimple

Kelleher ran towards Nathan’s, Coney Island’s legendary wiener wonderland. The Ukrainian’s final fetid breath was still stinging his nostrils . . .

“Tar” by Scott Kaiser

10:00 a.m.

“Yeah, yeah, yeah! Ummm, this will work . . . I’m sure I can quit this time,” muttered Steve under his quickening breath while rapidly striking his index finger against the table before him.

“Here come the temple spasms, Steve . . .”

Carrie Howland on The Shark Curtain

To celebrate the release of The Shark Curtain — a powerful and unique look into a young creative mind by debut novelist Chris Scofield and the latest release from Akashic’s Black Sheep imprint for young readers — we’re very pleased to bring you a guest post by Carrie Howland, literary agent at Donadio & Olson, on what makes The Shark Curtain such a special book.