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We're pulling back the curtain on pigeons. Most city people don't seem to like pigeons. They call them "rats with wings" and other derogatory names. But it wasn't always that way. Pigeons used to be celebrated -- even worshiped by some cultures. And don't forget the crucial role of Homing Pigeons during World War One. Join us for a look at the love-hate relationship between man and bird.

Our guest is Andrew Blechman, author of the new book, Pigeons: The Fascinating Saga of the World's Most Revered and Reviled Bird.

George Winston is famous for his contemplative piano music. Some call it "New Age", but he calls it "Rural Folk Piano". But he also plays a mean slack-key guitar and blues harmonica. He'll stop by our studios to play a little and to talk about his almost three decades in the music business.

George Winston is in New Hampshire this week to play a few shows. Check his online calendar for more details.

Tonight on the Front Porch, we're going beyond the legends and learning what really happened on that first Thanksgiving. Pop historian Ken Davis will take us back to 1620 and let us in on some of the little-known facts about the holiday. He'll dispel common misconceptions about Thanksgiving, regarding everything from the celebration's origins to the Pilgrims' hygiene.

Ken Davis is the author behind the "Don't Know Much" series of books, including Don't Know Much About History and Don't Know Much About the Universe.

A new play examines the tragic life of one of America's greatest -- but mostly forgotten -- chess champions. We'll meet the local playwright who adapted Paul Morphy's story for the stage. And we'll talk with David Shenk, the author of "The Immortal Game" a new book that examines that huge impact the game has had on cultures around the world for centuries.
Our guests are:

David Shenk, author of many books, including The Immortal Game: A History of Chess, or How 32 Carved Pieces on a Board Illuminated our Understanding of War, Art, Science and the Human Brain

Noah Sheola, New Hampshire actor, director and author of the new play, Paul Morphy.

It's an open secret among many composers that they'll have a better chance of surviving if they write music for a chorus rather than for solo piano. Tonight on the Front Porch we'll talk with nationally known New Hampshire composer Kevin Siegfried about the ways economics can affect the artistic process. We'll also preview the upcoming National Symphony Association's Saturday night concert that features some of his work.