Last summer I got bored with the books I had on my bed stand, and I started asking people what they were reading hoping to find some inspiration. Being a long-time fan of sci-fi and fantasy, I quickly discovered what a sheltered life I have led. I decided to start documenting the variety of literature that people were attracted to. You Can’t Judge a Book is an experimental interview that’s as much about the people as it is about the books they are reading. In this case, the title is both a metaphor and literal.

My first attempt at an interview was with my mother. She’s an 84-year-old widow with seven children, 15 grandchildren and one great grandchild due any day now. I often borrow books from her, so her choice in literature is no surprise to me. You might find this Kansas farm girl’s taste in literature unexpected.

Listen to You Can’t Judge a Book: Prairies to Dunes