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In Poet's Choice, author Edward Hirsch makes a case that poetry is "a human fundamental, like music." Hirsch talks poetry with Scott Simon and reads poems by Kathy Fagan and William Matthews.

A slew of recently released books examine U.S. policy and military strategy behind the Iraq war. George Packer, author of 2005's highly acclaimed The Assassins' Gate: America in Iraq, reviews some of the latest titles.

The recipe for a traditional Thanksgiving dinner includes a pinch of frenzy, a dash of angst, and a sprinkle of panic. Christopher Kimball, host of the public-television show, America's Test Kitchen, says the big meal can turn out just right and on time — with a little planning.

Author Peter Straub knows a bit about terror. As the editor of the new two-volume set American Fantastic: Tales, Terror and the Uncanny, he spent two years researching the best — and scariest — American stories, dating from the age of Edgar Allan Poe to the present.

Navy Cmdr. Richard Jadick earned a Bronze Star with a "V" for valor for his service as a doctor during the Battle of Fallujah, which featured some of the worst street fighting seen by Americans since Vietnam. His new memoir, written with Thomas Hayden, is On Call in Hell: A Doctor's Iraq War Story.

When Jackie Robinson stepped onto Ebbets Field on April 15, 1947, it was the beginning of a year that would test his courage, and the mettle of a nation. In his new book, author Jonathan Eig delves into the personal and professional battles that Robinson fought during his rookie season.

Biographer Walter Isaacson has turned his attention to the 20th century's scientific poster boy, whose family life was as difficult as his career was distinguished. Isaacson's book Einstein: His Life and Universe draws on newly released personal correspondence to create a portrait of the private as well as the public Albert Einstein.

Disney World's "It's a Small World" ride broke down and dozens of people were stuck on their boats listening to animatronic characters sing to them over and over. One person said it was like torture.

In 1851, two chess masters sat down for a practice game in London. What should have been a throwaway game intensified and was quickly dubbed "the immortal game." David Shenk, author of a new history of chess called The Immortal Game, describes the historic match.

Being in a car with your immediate family for hours on end can make even the most levelheaded traveler consider jumping out the window. Author Sarah Dessen has some reading suggestions for staying safe — and sane — on the highway.