Each week until our BSR Book Week author panel on May 20, we're spotlighting one of our panelists. This week it's New York Times editor Ken Jaworowski. We connected earlier this year when he reached out to BSR about his new novel, What About the Bodies. I found out he was born and raised in Roxborough, and he calls Philly his "good luck charm." He loves to visit, so I invited him to drop by on Zoom for this year's author panel. He sent a copy of the new book, and I couldn't put it down, even though crime fiction isn't my usual genre. The tense but sensitive and big-hearted story follows three people in a small PA town who face an interconnected crisis. He also sent this thoughtful and surprising short essay about how being a boxer helps him write. He's also a playwright! We're so glad to welcome Ken to the BSR community. Join our Zoom conversation on Wednesday, May 20. RSVP here.
On to the reviews
Our writers are busy this week, as usual. An Nichols did double duty, covering Sappho's Salon in West Philly and Ain't Misbehavin' in Norristown at Theatre Horizon. She likes both shows, with some thoughtful critiques. Camille Bacon-Smith raves about the new Romeo and Juliet from Philadelphia Ballet choreographer-in-residence Juliano Nunes. It's running only through this weekend (I have my own ticket for Thursday). Melissa Strong covers an important new show from Philly's Putty Dance Project, and Walt Maguire heads to the new solo show from Jen Childs at 1812, She Gets Around. Get his take here.
In other news, we have another election coming up with the 2026 PA primary on May 19. This is the time to research questions and candidates, confirm your voter registration, and make your plan to vote.
Alaina Johns
BSR editor-in-chief
