Shelf Life

In Jess Walter's new novel, the protagonist is upside down on his house, out of a job, and a failure at starting a business. But he's got a comeback plan.

John Buntin, who writes about the 20th-century relationship between organized crime and the Los Angeles Police Department in "L.A. Noir," takes Kai Ryssdal on a tour of the city's downtown and points out things that haven't changed much.

Journalist Peter Maass talks with Kai Ryssdal about his book, "Crude World" and the disadvantages that come with having a lot of oil.

Today's young adults have a great deal of spending power. Steve Chiotakis talks to author Kit Yarrow, whose book "Gen Buy" explores how teens and 20-somethings are spending their money and shaping retail.

Author Richard Polsky talks with Kai Ryssdal about his book, "I Sold Andy Warhol (Too Soon)," and how the art bubble popped in 2008.

Authors Nicholas D. Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn talk with Kai Ryssdal about their book, "Half the Sky," and why more aid should be targeted to women so countries can be lifted out of impoverishment.

Alain De Botton, author of "The Pleasures and Sorrows of Work," talks with Tess Vigeland about our modern relationship with work and how occupations help shape our identities.

Greg Kot, music critic for the Chicago Tribune, talks with Kai Ryssdal about how the wired generation has revolutionized music through the digital platform.

One bright spot that tends to emerge out of calamity is a renewed sense of community. Author Rebecca Solnit's book explores how this trend emerged in five disasters, including Hurricane Katrina. She talks to Tess Vigeland.

There's no shortage nowadays of ideas for how to bring down the high cost of medical care. Dr. Lisa Sanders says we ought to be looking more at the point where patients first enter the medical system. She talks with Kai Ryssdal.