Ahead of NPR Host’s Visit to KC, Readers of His New Book Find Great Storytelling

Kansas City, Tuesday, June 11, 2024

As the anticipation grows for renowned NPR host, Ari Shapiro’s visit to Kansas City, a quaint group of ten local readers recently gathered at KCUR (89.3) to discuss the host’s latest book, ‘The Best Strangers in the World’. Eager with curiosity and excitement, the group toured the station to get a peek into the environment of their beloved radio host.

The Art of Radio Broadcasting

KCUR Program Director, Ron Jones led the group from studio to studio, providing an insightful peek behind the scenes. They got an overview of the behind-the-scenes mechanics of radio broadcasting, from the placement of guests to the usage of the ‘cough button’ and the slight broadcast delay taken into play to comply with FCC profanity laws.

A local legend in her own right, Laurie Arbore, the afternoon announcer, shared her wisdom of 29 years in radio. She emphasized the importance of reading as the most valuable skill in her profession. It’s not just about reading aloud, but about truly understanding the material and delivering it to the audience.

Reading for Empathy

Ari Shapiro echoes a similar sentiment in his book about the importance of reading to his career. The power of fiction allows us to question the world and broaden our perspectives. As he wrote in his book, ‘Journalism and nonfiction provide us answers, but I think fiction provides us questions. And that is one of the statements that I keep mulling over.’

The group focused on Shapiro’s ability and willingness to ask questions and see the world through another’s eyes as a clear mark of his curiosity, which they agreed makes a good storyteller.

Shapiro: The Storyteller

Prior to becoming a co-host of All Things Considered, Shapiro spent five years as NPR’s justice correspondent during the George W. Bush administration and four years as the White House correspondent while Barack Obama was in office. He travelled extensively, covering conflicts and unrest all over the world.

In his career, Shapiro continuously sought to break through the conventional and humanize abstract, large-scale issues. For example, during the Syrian refugee crisis where he detailed the journey of 33-year-old Monzer Omar, who aimed to establish a life in a European country before bringing his family over. The authetic voice and empathy in his story made listeners across the globe feel invested in Omar’s journey.

What Makes a Good Story?

Moving from what makes a good storyteller, the club members pondered what makes a good story. They agreed it is a blend of authentic voice from sources and linguistic brilliance that emotionally and intellectually enthralls the audience. But a truly great story, one that lingers on in the reader’s mind and provokes thought long after it is read, that is a remarkable feat.

A Date with the Author

Shapiro is scheduled to appear at the Kansas City Public Library on June 13, 2024 beginning at 6 p.m. as part of the library’s 150th anniversary celebrations. The main event hall is at capacity, but overflow seating arrangements are still available.

Thus, fans and readers alike, eager with anticipation of his visit, are already finding delight in his detailed storytelling and deep sense of empathy and connection.