How 'Under the Perfect Sun' reveals a people's history of San Diego, 20 years later episode artwork

EPISODE · May 14, 2026 · 31 MIN

How 'Under the Perfect Sun' reveals a people's history of San Diego, 20 years later

from KPBS Midday Edition

Many tourists might recognize San Diego as America’s Finest City. But what happens when you look past the city’s sunny surface? The book, “Under the Perfect Sun: The San Diego Tourists Never See,” offered up another side of San Diego history when its 2005 edition came out — one rooted in resistance and activism.Now, 20 years later, the book has been updated with new interviews and new stories, looking at the ways the city has changed.Thursday on Midday Edition, we hear from two of the authors about dedicating the book to the late Mike Davis, one of the book's original authors, and their own reflections on how San Diego has transformed over time.Then, thinking about what to do this weekend? KPBS arts reporter Julia Dixon Evans has you covered with a diverse mix of visual art, theater and music in her weekend arts preview.Guests:Kelly Mayhew, professor, San Diego City College, author, "Under the Perfect Sun"Jim Miller, professor, San Diego City College, author, "Under the Perfect Sun"Julia Dixon Evans, arts reporter and host of "The Finest" podcast, KPBS

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How 'Under the Perfect Sun' reveals a people's history of San Diego, 20 years later

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