NHPR is proud to announce an inspiring lineup of literary conversations for spring 2026. Join us for a season of deep dives and live discussions featuring our Writers on a New England Stage and Authors on Main series.
This list is evolving. Check back frequently for new additions and schedule updates.
April 1 | Authors on Main
Jenny Lawson - "How to Be Okay When Nothing is Okay"
In "How to Be Okay When Nothing Is Okay", Jenny shares more than one hundred humorous, heartfelt, and genuine tools and tricks that she relies on to keep her going even when her brain isn’t working properly due to depression, anxiety, and ADHD. She also offers tips to stay passionate and focused on creative endeavors, especially when everything around you is saying to give up. Lawson will be joined on stage by NHPR's Rebecca Lavoie.
April 4 | Writers on a New England Stage
From the author of the international bestseller "Life of Pi", Martel's new novel is a brilliant retelling of the Trojan War from the perspective of two commoners: an ancient soldier and a modern scholar. Join NHPR's Nick Capodice as he sits down with Martel to discuss "Son of Nobody."
April 28 | Authors on Main
Emma Straub – "American Fantasy"
NHPR’s Julia Furukawa joins Emma Straub for a smart, incisive conversation on fame, aging and the textures of middle age. "American Fantasy" is a richly told story that proves real passion is never truly lost and that deep meaning can often be found in the most unexpected places—even a sea of screaming fans.
May 13 | Writers on a New England Stage
Elizabeth Strout – “The Things We Never Say"
Save the date! Pulitzer Prize–winning, New York Times bestselling author Elizabeth Strout’s new novel tells the story of a chance incident that sparks a powerful realization in a beloved teacher’s life. "The Things We Never Say" is a poignant meditation on loneliness, friendship, parenthood, and the importance of truth in a capsizing world.
June 1 | Writers on a New England Stage
Matt Haig – "The Midnight Train"
Join NHPR's Jackie Harris as she sits down with Haig for an intimate evening with best selling author, Matt Haig. "The Midnight Train" is a highly anticipated magical, time-traveling love story. Serving as a thematic follow-up to his previous work, this new novel explores life’s regrets and pivotal moments through the story of Wilbur Budd, who boards a mysterious train to revisit his life.
June 11–14 | Seacoast Lit Fest
Writers on a New England Stage Special Event
NHPR heads to the coast for a multiday celebration of the written word. Save the date; more details to follow.
June 26 | Writers on a New England Stage
Join us for a conversation with Maggie O’Farrell, the celebrated author of the international bestseller "Hamnet." Her new novel "Land," debuts June 2 making this one of the first opportunities to hear from the author. Set in 19th-century Ireland before and after the Great Hunger, this historical epic follows a father and son mapping the landscape—a journey that explores profound themes of survival, loss and memory. O'Farrell will be joined on stage by NHPR's Rebecca Lavoie.
