Books & Looks: Real Books for Real Readers was started as a podcast to supplement Blaine Desantis’ website, ViewsOnBooks.com, and expand into audio interviews with authors.
With Books & Looks, Blaine’s goal is to focus on real books that real people will read. At least half of the books he reviews are either new authors or unknown authors that many in the general public are unaware of. After a segment reviewing books or interviewing authors, Blaine ends each episode with a discussion of the movies and TV shows he is currently watching.
This Week’s Episode
Today I interview author Mark Shrager about his book, The First Kentucky Derby. Shrager provides insight into the history and sociology of horse racing, including the demise of black jockeys in the sport. He discusses his background in writing, including his experience writing procedure manuals for the Los Angeles Unified School District. Shrager also explains how the Kentucky Derby was born out of a desire to revive the horse racing industry in Louisville and how the race has evolved over time. Don’t miss this fascinating conversation about the origins of one of America’s most beloved sporting events.
The First Kentucky Derby by Mark Shrager
Check out the latest episode of Books & Looks:
About Blaine Desantis:
Blaine is an avid lifetime reader, a retired attorney, and has been a book club leader for the past seven years. He is an active teacher in senior education classes at Furman University. Blaine loves fiction, nonfiction, histories, mysteries and almost all genres of books.
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