In this episode of Book Banter with Rayna, we talk with author Rien Fertel about his rich and reflective writing on Southern history and culture. We dive into the personal threads that run through his work, how he brings forgotten stories and voices to the forefront, and what it means to write about place with both reverence and critique. - Rien Fertel is the author of four works of nonfiction. He writes about literature for a variety of publications, including the New Orleans Times-Picayune/Louisiana Advocate, where he is the biweekly book critic. He has held a variety of academic positions, most recently as a Visiting Professor of History at Tulane University. - Purchase Rien's books here: https://bookshop.org/lists/book-banter-guests - Book Banter is a laid-back conversational interview with authors, illustrators, creators and other bookish folks. - Subscribe to Book Banter with Rayna wherever you get your podcasts. Watch new content on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@Book_Banter