Human Memory Carried in the Land and Water (with Shobha Rao)

Liberation is Lit Podcast

In this episode, we interview Shobha Rao, author of 'Girls Burn Brighter' and 'Indian Country.' Rao shares her journey to becoming a writer, beginning with her migration from India to the U.S. as a child. We cover the themes in her books, particularly focusing on disenfranchised populations and the impact of colonialism. Rao also discusses the importance of cultivating kindness, the inspiration behind her writing, and her literary influences.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:50 Shobha Rao's Journey to Becoming a Writer

03:49 Exploring Themes in 'Indian Country'

06:36 Shobha Rao's Literary Focus and Inspirations

09:14 The Impact of Colonialism and Empire

12:07 Grounding Practices and the Power of Poetry

15:16 Current Reads and Literary Influences

19:02 Advice for Making a Positive Impact

23:03 Closing Remarks and Where to Find Shobha Rao

Shobha’s Books

Indian Country

An Unrestored Woman

Girls Burn Brighter

Books Mentioned in Episode

2666 by Roberto Bolaño

Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingslover

David Copperfield by Charles Dickens

Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain

Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain

James by Percival Everett

Where to Find Shobha

ShobhaRao.com

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