Join PBS Books, the Library of Congress, and the affiliated Centers for the Book on for the premiere of American Stories: A Reading Road Trip—starting in Rhode Island! Tune-in September 10th at 8pm to the PBS Books Facebook Event, on the PBS Books YouTube Channel or on the PBS app.
Even the smallest state has big stories to tell. This first episode dives into Rhode Island’s rich literary legacy—from the revolutionary writings of Roger Williams and the chilling tales of H.P. Lovecraft to Edgar Allan Poe’s time in Providence and Pulitzer Prize-winner Jhumpa Lahiri’s deeply human storytelling (Interpreter of Maladies, The Namesake).
Featuring interviews with award-winning writers like Anika Aldamuy Denise (Planting Stories), illustrator Christopher Denise (Knight Owl), Caldecott honoree Oge Mora (Thank You, Omu!), David Macaulay (The Way Things Work), and Elizabeth Rush (Rising). This episode explores how Rhode Island’s rugged coastline, historic architecture, and vibrant arts community continue to shape literary and visual storytelling.
We’ll also visit iconic spaces like the Providence Athenaeum, Redwood Library, and John Hay Library, and spotlight how RISD has nurtured generations of imaginative talent. From Gothic tales to contemporary voices, this is a celebration of Rhode Island’s creative spirit and enduring literary legacy.
About American Stories: A Reading Road Trip
Pack your curiosity —PBS Books is hitting the road! In partnership with the Library of Congress Centers for the Book, American Stories: A Reading Road Trip shines a spotlight on individual U.S. states and select territories to uncover their one-of-a-kind literary treasures.
From iconic authors and unforgettable books to hidden-gem bookstores, amazing libraries, and the real-life locations that inspired great works, this cross-country adventure celebrates the stories that have shaped our shared identity. Along the way, we’ll meet bestselling authors, passionate booksellers, and local storytellers —plus share highlights from local programs and events hosted by each state’s Center for the Book —revealing how their corner of America has left its mark on the nation’s imagination. Aligned with America’s 250th birthday, each episode invites viewers to explore the heart, history, and creative spirit of the United States —all through the lens of books and storytelling.
New episodes will stream on select Wednesdays at 8pm EST as PBS Books Facebook Live event, and on the PBS Books YouTube channel, pbsbooks.org, and the PBS app.
About the Library of Congress
The Library of Congress is the world’s largest library, offering access to the creative record of the United States –and extensive materials from around the world –both on-site and online. It is the main research arm of the U.S. Congress and the home of the U.S. Copyright Office. Explore collections, reference services and other programs and plan a visit at loc.gov; access the official site for U.S. federal legislative information at congress.gov; and register creative works of authorship at copyright.gov.
About PBS Books
PBS Books is a multi-platform initiative celebrating the love of reading. PBS Books is dedicated to connecting books with audiences by engaging them in unique experiences to spark their curiosity and encourage a life-long love of reading and learning. Through social and digital engagement and live coverage of important literary events across the country, PBS Books celebrates books and writers and works to foster a passion for reading among public media viewers and listeners.Visit pbsbooks.org, subscribe to the PBS Books YouTube channel, and follow PBS Books on social media to learn more.
