Philadelphia writer Sara Nović’s new novel follows the students and teachers of a school for the deaf, making the case that we all need a shared language. Kirsten Bowen reviews.

A 2021 novella from Philly author Jonathan Koven, published thanks to the Electric Eclectic Novella Prize, is a new entry in a hoary tradition, but not without poetic merits. Walter Bilderback reviews.

The week features a visit from the 23rd US poet laureate, a crafty conference, a show based on one of Billie Holiday’s final performances, and a Philly-centric event for AWP. Kyle V. Hiller rounds up.

Theatre Horizon hosts James Ijames’s TJ Loves Sally 4 Ever, Harriett’s Bookshop trolleys to Black women-owned businesses, and the future of South Philly highlight the week. Kyle V. Hiller rounds up.

In Pennsylvania native Jennifer Niesslein’s deeply personal new essay collection, she grapples with the personal, political, and cultural myths of America today. Grace Kennedy reviews.

A week with healing comedy, streaming theater performances you may have missed, Afro-Cuban jazz, and a visit from author Farah Jasmine Griffin. Kyle V. Hiller rounds up.

Trauma and abandonment reverberate throughout the lives of two sisters in Ariel Delgado Dixon’s debut novel, Don’t Say We Didn’t Warn You. Kirsten Bowen reviews.

In Dark History of Penn’s Woods, Jennifer L. Green shines a light on the little-known, real-life historical terrors of Chester and Delaware Counties, and how they inform our present. Josh Hitchens reviews.

Kathryn Canavan’s latest book tackles the dark and grisly side of Philly’s true crime history, but it’s also a fascinating read about the ordinary folks who have been foiling criminals for centuries. Rob Laymon reviews.

Blue Stoop hosts a pair of writerly conversations with two new novels, a contemporary neon art exhibit opens in Philly and West Chester, and the past and future of Black dancers are on stage. Kyle V. Hiller rounds up.