Here are some books that I’ve been (re)reading recently:

Ethical Soundscapes: Cassette Sermons and Islamic Counterpublics by Charles Hirschkind

Lessons in Being Chinese: Minority Education and Ethnic Identity in Southwest China by Mette Halskov Hansen

Party Crashing: How the Hip-Hop Generation Declared Political Independence by Keli Goff

Lifebuoy Men, Lux Women: Commodification, Consumption, and Cleanliness in Modern Zimbabwe by Timothy Burke

Maximum Security: The Culture of Violence in Inner-city Schools by John Devine

A Right To Housing: Foundation for a New Social Agenda by Rachel Bratt (Ed.)

Keepin’ It Real: School Success Beyond Black and White by Prudence Carter

Teaching the Personal and the Political: Essays on Hope and Justice by Bill Ayers

Today’s interview of the day comes from NPR, where I appeared on the “Barbershop” segment of “Tell Me More” with Michel Martin. To hear it, click here.

Americans Voting Early

So far, more than 5 million people have cast their ballots in states where early voting is available. What do you think?

Doug Ervine,
Campaign Consultant
“I voted early, but it’s only because I have plans on Election Day to terrorize elderly Jewish voters.”

Natalie Ashford,
Systems Analyst
“The earlier you go, the crisper the ballot. I love a crisp ballot.”

Charlie Heater,
Librarian
“Not me. I still have another week to be pandered to, and I’m going to milk it for all it’s worth.”

Today’s photo of the day shows Jennifer Hudson, whose mother, brother, and nephew were killed in a tragic murder on Friday. It is my sincerest hope that their killer(s) are brought to justice. My heart goes out to Jennifer and her entire family during this time of sorrow and grief.

Today’s video of the day is “Single Ladies” by Beyonce. Although the song is eerily reminiscent of “Get Me Bodied,” it is hot-fire nonetheless.