Alejandro Varela is the author of THE TOWN OF BABYLON, a finalist for the National Book Award, and THE PEOPLE WHO REPORT MORE STRESS, which The New York Times called “a master class in analyzing the unspoken” and praised Varela for shedding light on complex societal problems with “seemingly effortless wit and empathy." Varela has a Master’s Degree in Public Health, and believes strongly in reparations, land back, a national health service, and a $36 minimum wage pegged to inflation. In this episode, Annmarie and Alejandro talk about social justice, online dating, and whether writing fiction can help foster the collective liberation of our society. Episode Sponsors: The Word Is Change – A neighborhood bookstore in Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn, selling used and new books, hosting readings and meetings, buying books for resale, and supporting visual artists. Come into the store and find the perfect book you were looking for, or the perfect book you didn’t even know you were looking for. And shop online at thewordischange.com. Greenlight Bookstore – Through knowledgeable staff, curated book selection, community partnerships, and a robust e-commerce website, Greenlight combines the best traditions of the neighborhood bookstore with a forward-looking sensibility, and welcomes readers of every kind to the heart of Brooklyn. Learn more and shop online at greenlightbookstore.com. Titles Discussed in This Episode: THE TOWN OF BABYLON, by Alejandro Varela  THE PEOPLE WHO REPORT MORE STRESS, by Alejandro Varela FALTAS: LETTERS TO EVERYONE IN MY HOMETOWN WHO ISN’T MY RAPIST, by Cecilia Gentili Here’s the trailer for PAST LIVES. Follow Alejandro Varela: Instagram: @drovarela Twitter: @drovarela alejandrovarela.work Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices