Since they were first introduced in 1847, postage stamps have become a staple of American life and taste. On today’s show, a look at America’s most memorable stamps, and why some were beloved, while others were surprisingly contentious. Plus, what happens when a pro-wrestler abandons the ring for Santa’s sleigh?
Listen to the full show:
America in 36 Stamps
Postage Stamps tell a deeper story of American history, preferences, creativity and self-image. Chris West explores all of those layers of narrative in his book A History of America in 36 Postage Stamps.
St. Mick
In late November, they begin to arrive. In malls, outside stores, at company parties across the country. A huge deluge of Santas. We don't often stop to wonder who the men are beneath the red stocking caps. And as Sean Hurley recently discovered, Santa sometimes has a secret he wants to keep.
Listen to this story again at this link: From Mankind to Saint Mick
The Allure of Adult Coloring Books
Adrienne Raphel wrote about adult coloring books and what’s being called the “Peter Pan” market for the New Yorker.