Ep. 243 Prison by Any Other Name by Maya Schenwar and Victoria Law — The Stacks Book Club (Mariame Kaba)

Today anti-violence activist and author Mariame Kaba returns to discuss Prison by Any Other Name: The Harmful Consequences of Popular Reforms by Maya Schenwar and Victoria Law for The Stacks Book Club. We highlight the depth of knowledge that this book provides about the history and current state of criminalization, and unpack the idea that prison is something that ties us all together. We ask why so many so-called reforms look like prison and policing, and what solutions might work in their place.

Be sure to listen to the end of today’s episode to find out what our December book club pick will be.

LISTEN NOW

Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | Overcast | Stitcher | Transcript

Everything we talk about on today’s episode can be found below in the show notes and on Bookshop.org and Amazon.

Connect with Mariame: Twitter | Website
Connect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Subscribe

To support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.

To contribute to The Stacks, join The Stacks Pack, and get exclusive perks, check out our Patreon page. If you prefer to support the show with a one time contribution go to paypal.me/thestackspod.


The Stacks participates in affiliate programs. We receive a small commission when products are purchased through links on this website, and this comes at no cost to you. This in no way effects opinions on books and products reviewed here. For more information click here.

The Stacks x The Catherine Coleman Foundation Fundraiser

It’s Giving Tuesday, so what better day to kick off our annual fundraiser? This year, we’re supporting The Catherine Coleman Foundation, founded by MacArthur Genius Award winner and dear friend of the podcast Kiese Laymon in honor of his grandmother.

The Catherine Coleman Literary Arts, Food and Justice Initiative now permanently resides at the Jackson State University Margaret Walker Center after its start at The University of Mississippi in 2020. It gives emerging Mississippi writers new avenues for creativity along with a renewed connection with their community’s historical social justice movements. The initiative will offer programming and writing seminars led by JSU students, faculty and special guests aimed at honing the skills of its young people as readers, writers and editors.

Kiese explained the program’s mission in announcing its move to JSU: “My grandmama sent all her daughters to Jackson State. This initiative will continue to help young folks in Jackson become the next Danielle Buckingham or Leslie McLemore Jr., two of the greatest young artists in Mississippi… Our hope is to ritualize workshops and incredible food for young folks in our community who might not get a lot of time to write and read ‘creatively.’ We also want young people to consider the creativity that gets food from the land to the table in Mississippi.”

Kiese himself plans to match up to $50,000 in donations to the program for the next month.

Our Stacks community goal is to raise $25,000.

If you’re able, please join The Stacks in raising money toward expanding and supporting the literary arts for Mississippi youths. Consider forgoing one new book this month in favor of making a $25 donation to this incredible organization.

Unabridged: Triscuits and Nilla Wafers with David Dennis Jr. and Justin Tinsley

On this Unabridged, we’re joined by journalists and writers David Dennis Jr. and Justin Tinsley for a really vibe-y hang. We talk sports and the art of sports criticism, Kyrie Irving and our Thanksgiving dinner hot takes. We also discuss our favorite fast food restaurants and the best scenes from Martin.

*This episode is exclusive to members of The Stacks Pack on patreon. To join this community, get inside access to the show, and listen now, click the link below.

JOIN THE STACKS PACK TO LISTEN

Everything we talk about on today’s episode can be found below in the show notes. You can also find what we talked about on Amazon.

Connect with David: Instagram | Twitter
Connect with Justin: Instagram | Twitter | Website
Connect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Subscribe

To contribute to The Stacks, join The Stacks Pack, and get exclusive perks, check out our Patreon page. If you prefer to support the show with a one time contribution go to paypal.me/thestackspod.


The Stacks participates in affiliate programs. We receive a small commission when products are purchased through links on this website, and this comes at no cost to you. This in no way effects opinions on books and products reviewed here. For more information click here.

New Merch & Black Friday Sale

We’ve got new merch here in The Stacks, and to get you started on your holiday shopping you can get 20% off everything in the shop with code READER20. The sale starts at 12.00am PST Friday, November 25th and runs until 11.59pm PST Monday, November 28th.

If you’re looking for other gift ideas for the book lovers in your life, be sure to check out this year’s gift guide, and here is last year’s too, just in case you need more ideas.

That’s it. That’s the message.

CLICK TO SHOP


To contribute to The Stacks, join The Stacks Pack, and get exclusive perks, check out our Patreon page (https://www.patreon.com/thestacks). We are beyond grateful for anything you’re able to give to support the production of The Stacks.

The Stacks participates in affiliate programs. We receive a small commission when products are purchased through links on this website, and this comes at no cost to you. This in no way effects opinions on books and products reviewed. For more information click here.

Ep. 242 Lurching from Disaster to Disaster with Steven W. Thrasher

Journalist and academic Steven W. Thrasher joins the show to discuss his eye-opening new book The Viral Underclass: The Human Toll When Inequality and Disease Collide. Steven explains the idea of the viral underclass – those most societally vulnerable to disease transmission – and the criminalization of the sick. We also discuss his comparison of COVID-19 and HIV responses throughout the book and his positionally as a Black and queer writer discussing disease.

The Stacks Book Club selection for November is Prison by Any Other Name: The Harmful Consequences of Popular Reforms by Maya Schenwar and Victoria Law. We will discuss the book on November 30th with Mariame Kaba.

LISTEN NOW

Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | Overcast | Stitcher | Transcript

Everything we talk about on today’s episode can be found below in the show notes and on Bookshop.org and Amazon.

To support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.

Connect with Steven: Instagram | TwitterWebsite
Connect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Subscribe

To contribute to The Stacks, join The Stacks Pack, and get exclusive perks, check out our Patreon page. If you prefer to support the show with a one time contribution go to paypal.me/thestackspod.


The Stacks participates in affiliate programs. We receive a small commission when products are purchased through links on this website, and this comes at no cost to you. This in no way effects opinions on books and products reviewed here. For more information click here.

The Stacks 2022 Gift Guide for the Book Lovers in Your Life

So I’m sharing another gift guide for you this year. Last year we focused all on non-book gifts for the book lovers in your life, and we’ll mostly stay focused there, however this year we’re talking about the different types of readers you may know. I am including a few actual books *gasp* and some things that I have loved this year that maybe aren’t so much in the book world, but are just great gifts. If you want all of the book recs be sure to check our my shop over on bookshop.org, it has books I love, books my kids love, and even books I’m looking forward to reading.


  1. If you’re reading on the go, you need a Kindle, duh.
  2. Any traveler knows they need a good suitcase and as an Away loyalist since 2016, I couldn’t recommend anything better . Well actually, you might need this duffle that fits on the roller bag, while you’re at it.
  3. You can’t read on the go without a book mark, and this wooden Toni Morrison one is perfection.
  4. For all my audiobook people, you know a good set of headphones is key to not missing a moment of the story. These noise canceling ones are what I use for travel and editing the podcast.
  5. This collapsible water bottle is so practical.
  6. A stylish luggage tag is a must for anyone, especially those of you with a black suitcase.
  7. Between Two Kingdoms is the ultimate adventure story but with heart. It would make for a perfect gift for someone who is looking for an unputdowable story of living life to the fullest while they’re out on the road or stuck at home.
  8. You obviously need a bookish tote from your favorite bookish podcast.
  9. If the reader in your life likes to squeeze in pages anywhere and everywhere they might just need this Tushy bidet. You can use code STACKS10 for 10% off.

  1. Sloane Tea is my new tea obsession. My favorite flavor is Heavenly Cream, but they also offer a gorgeous variety set of teas.
  2. This coffee mug will be on every single gift guide I ever do. It keeps your drink warm while you read (or work, of whatever). What else could you possibly need?
  3. I’ve been a loyal Harney & Sons tea drinker since college, and they offer a tea of the month subscription which is a gift I wish someone would give me. They’re also home to one of my favorite rose black teas.
  4. I love this robe. It’s not too heavy but ultra soft. I love it so much I also have the pajama shorts and pants, because I love it. Did I mention that I love this robe?
  5. My favorite hotel chain, The Edition, has the best signature scent ever and now you can get it for your home with this candle.
  6. I’m a cozy in the bathtub kind of gal, and whenever I share my bathroom I get a million questions about this shower curtain.
  7. Cold brew coffee maker that doubles as an ice tea maker, yes please. Perfect for a house divided.
  8. What even is cozy without a blanket? These faux shearling ones are the snuggliest ever.
  9. If you’re spending lots of time curled up at home with a book, you need some gorgeous decor. I mean honestly, have you ever seen a cuter vase?
  1. You might not know them well, but you know they’re into books? Get them the gift of audiobooks from Libro.FM. You can get bundles of credits, and they can pick the titles that suit them.
  2. I’m a big fan of gifting something that disappears, like a treat, and this jam is the perfect tasty and decadent delicious gift.
  3. This cookbook is dedicated to all things snack board. It is a perfect host gift.
  4. You truly can not go wrong with this candle. The smell is divine. It is neuteral with a little aesthetic flair which means it matches any home or office decor. No brainer.
  5. A classy gift for a reader you might not know too well is always bookends, these ceramic ones have style but also go with everything.
  6. “Postcards from Penguin” are so good looking and if you love books you’ll love sending them to your loved ones.
  7. I have yet to suggest this book to a person and them not love it, Tiny Beautiful Things is the perfect gift for a work secret Santa or an in-law and everyone in between.
  8. This snack subscription box gives you your favorite brands international treats and beverages. Like fruit and nut Snickers bars or caramel flavor Corn Pops.
  9. The perfect gift, a personalized stamp, for a generous book lover who can’t keep track of all the books they loan out.
  1. I love these Rayo & Honey pendants. There are so many phrases to chose from and would make a perfect gift for a nursery or playroom.
  2. My kids love their reading chair. It’s also big enough that I can sit on it, too.
  3. Baby Hippo is a fan favorite in our house, and this series has a variety of animal finger puppet books for you to chose from. It is perfect for the tiniest readers you know.
  4. I love my Kibou diaper bag fanny pack so much. It’s great for trips to the park or on the plane, best part is, it fits my Kindle for easy access.
  5. I loved Look Book Ways for middle grade readers so much. The stories are perfect for any school age child and touching enough to resonate with adults, too. You could read them aloud as a family or let each family member read it on their own.
  6. A puzzle is a great family activity and a puzzle dedicated to book nerds is even better.
  7. I assume if you’re a family of readers you’re also a family of snackers and this cute popcorn popper is perfect for snack/reading time!
  8. I was gifted the Lovevery toy subscription for The Mini’s when they were brand new babies and I love the deliveries. The Toys are aesthetically pleasing and are Montessori based to teach them skills for their development. Plus each box comes with a book.
  9. I got this lion bookshelf for the Mini Stacks and every time I see it it brings a smile to my face.
  1. These sunglasses are very stylish and very much my jam. They are a bit of a splurge but totally worth it.
  2. This subtle lip gloss is my obsession and makes a perfect gift for an easy breezy reader out at a cafe getting their pages in.
  3. A cute non-tote to carry your book and whatever else you might need for the day, but mostly your book.
  4. This is the best planner out. It’s perfect for keeping up with a busy schedule.
  5. On the go means athleisure for me and these leggings go with every single book I’ve ever read.
  6. A good hand cream goes a long way, this rose flavored one is my go to.
  7. You know any reader who is going out in the world needs to rep their favorite bookish podcast, this cozy sweatshirt is just the thing.
  8. I have these studded sneakers and they elevate every outfit, from jeans to leggings to a midi skirt. Obsessed.
  9. I never leave home without my Fitbit to count my steps from my house to my favorite reading spot.
  10. If you’re reading on park bench you need SPF, Supergoop is my favorite for all things sun protection. Their products are light without a bunch of grease or scent. My bestie gifted it to me and now I’m paying it forward to you all.

To contribute to The Stacks, join The Stacks Pack, and get exclusive perks, check out our Patreon page (https://www.patreon.com/thestacks). We are beyond grateful for anything you’re able to give to support the production of The Stacks.

The Stacks participates in affiliate programs. We receive a small commission when products are purchased through links on this website, and this comes at no cost to you. This in no way effects opinions on books and products reviewed. For more information click here.

Ep. 241 Names on Top of Names on Top of Names with Jonathan Abrams

Today Jonathan Abrams joins The Stacks to discuss his third book The Come Up: An Oral History of the Rise of Hip-Hop. In unpacking the massive undertaking, the NYT staff writer and sports reporter addresses what goes into crafting a good oral history, and why he wanted to tell this particular story now. Plus, we get into the best diss tracks and rap beefs of all time.

The Stacks Book Club selection for November is Prison by Any Other Name: The Harmful Consequences of Popular Reforms by Maya Schenwar and Victoria Law. We will discuss the book on November 30th with Mariame Kaba.

LISTEN NOW

Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | Overcast | Stitcher | Transcript

Everything we talk about on today’s episode can be found below in the show notes and on Bookshop.org and Amazon.

Connect with Jonathan: Instagram | Twitter
Connect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Subscribe

To support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.

To contribute to The Stacks, join The Stacks Pack, and get exclusive perks, check out our Patreon page. If you prefer to support the show with a one time contribution go to paypal.me/thestackspod.


The Stacks participates in affiliate programs. We receive a small commission when products are purchased through links on this website, and this comes at no cost to you. This in no way effects opinions on books and products reviewed here. For more information click here.

Ep. 240 Hold the Powers that Be Accountable with Jemele Hill

Renowned sports journalist Jemele Hill joins the show to discuss her powerful new book Uphill: A Memoir. We talk about how she organized and thought about telling her story, how she cultivated he sources as a journalist. Jemele also reveals how she navigates the challenging relationship between her own identity as a Black woman and the world of sports.

The Stacks Book Club selection for November is Prison by Any Other Name: The Harmful Consequences of Popular Reforms by Maya Schenwar and Victoria Law. We will discuss the book on November 30th with Mariame Kaba.

LISTEN NOW

Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | Overcast | Stitcher | Transcript

Everything we talk about on today’s episode can be found below in the show notes and on Bookshop.org and Amazon.

credit: Chris Schmitt

Connect with Jemele: Instagram | Twitter
Connect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Subscribe

To support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.

To contribute to The Stacks, join The Stacks Pack, and get exclusive perks, check out our Patreon page. If you prefer to support the show with a one time contribution go to paypal.me/thestackspod.


The Stacks participates in affiliate programs. We receive a small commission when products are purchased through links on this website, and this comes at no cost to you. This in no way effects opinions on books and products reviewed here. For more information click here.

Ep. 239 The Purpose of a System Is What It Does with Mariame Kaba

Today we welcome Mariame Kaba – activist and author of the book We Do This ‘Til We Free Us: Abolitionist Organizing and Transforming Justice, and her latest, No More Police: A Case for Abolition, which she cowrote with Andrea J. Ritchie. In discussing her lifelong devotion to anti-violence, we learn why Mariame doesn’t center herself in the work toward abolition, and why she does not consider herself a writer. She also explains the difference between punishment and consequences and shares some incredible book recommendations.

The Stacks Book Club selection for November is Prison By Any Other Name by Maya Schenwar and Victoria Law. We will discuss the book on November 30th with Mariame Kaba.

LISTEN NOW

Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | Overcast | Stitcher | Transcript

Everything we talk about on today’s episode can be found below in the show notes and on Bookshop.org and Amazon.

Connect with Mariame: Twitter | Website
Connect with The Stacks: Instagram | Twitter | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Subscribe

To support The Stacks and find out more from this week’s sponsors, click here.

To contribute to The Stacks, join The Stacks Pack, and get exclusive perks, check out our Patreon page. If you prefer to support the show with a one time contribution go to paypal.me/thestackspod.


The Stacks participates in affiliate programs. We receive a small commission when products are purchased through links on this website, and this comes at no cost to you. This in no way effects opinions on books and products reviewed here. For more information click here.

The Stacks Book Club – November 2022

Our Stacks Book Club selection for November is Prison by Any Other Name: The Harmful Consequences of Popular Reforms, co-authored by journalists Maya Schenwar and Victoria Law, with a foreword by author and civil rights lawyer Michelle Alexander. The book is a searing exposé of the state-sanctioned violence and social control engineered by so-called alternative solutions to incarceration, from surveillance and house arrest to mandated psyche and drug treatments. It peels away the deceptively kind narrative around reform which actually obscures an oppressive and self-perpetuating status quo in crime and punishment. Prison By Any Other Name argues for real change and seeks to inspire a more humane and empowered approach to justice.

We will discuss Prison By Any Other Name by Maya Schenwar and Victoria Law on Wednesday, November 30th. You can find out who our guest will be by listening to the podcast on November 2nd. If you’d like even more discussion around the book, consider joining The Stacks Pack on Patreon and participating in The Stacks’ monthly virtual book club.

Order your copy of our November book on Bookshop.org and Amazon, or listen to the audiobook through Libro.FM.


To contribute to The Stacks, join The Stacks Pack, and get exclusive perks, check out our Patreon page (https://www.patreon.com/thestacks). We are beyond grateful for anything you’re able to give to support the production of The Stacks.

The Stacks participates in affiliate programs. We receive a small commission when products are purchased through links on this website, and this comes at no cost to you. This in no way effects opinions on books and products reviewed. For more information click here.