Read any good books lately? We open the phone lines for our annual show featuring listeners' suggestions for the best books to enjoy this summer on the beach and beyond.

Private equity has become a hot topic in the presidential election, with both President Obama and Mitt Romney hurling barbs over the issue. But what's the truth beneath the political rhetoric? We discuss the advantages and pitfalls to a business that makes some people very wealthy.

When struggling with a major illness, Lynn Coye appreciated most the friends who didn't try to cheer her up.

Diane Ackerman and her husband, Paul West, have both enjoyed long literary careers. West suffered a stroke in 2003 that left him with aphasia, an inability to produce or understand words. Ackerman's memoir, "One Hundred Names for Love" examines the impact this had on their word-filled relationship.

Boosting creativity is not a magical process, says journalist Jonah Lehrer. In his book, "Imagine: How Creativity Works," Lehrer explores different thought processes -- such as productive daydreaming -- that anyone can use to foster creativity. He also debunks the myth that creativity is a gift only possessed by the few.

Celebrity chef Jacques Pépin has been cooking for almost 60 years. He has published 27 cookbooks and has won a Daytime Emmy, numerous James Beard Awards and two of France's highest honors. Pépin joined us in April to discuss food, his newest cookbook and his KQED-produced PBS series, "Essential Pépin."

Hairdresser Vidal Sassoon pioneered sleek, geometric hairstyles that helped free women in the 1960s from the tyranny of frequent visits to the hair stylist. He passed away on May 9th. We listen back to a 2008 interview with Sassoon about hair, fashion, his rags to riches story and his philanthropic work.

Governor Jerry Brown wants to cut state worker pay by 5 percent, to help close California's $16 billion budget gap. To get the expected $800 million in savings, the Governor is proposing to shorten the workweek for state employees. But a cut to the state payroll now could drive up state costs later.

Redistricting set the stage for a number of political dramas this primary season. Several regions that were previously considered safe for one party are now up for grabs. That's the story in the Ninth Congressional District, where Democratic incumbent Jerry McNerney faces two Republican challengers.