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AUSTRALIAN Writer’s HISTORIC WIN Stirs Emotions

20 November 2024 — Australian author Richard Flanagan has made history by winning Britain’s prestigious Baillie Gifford Prize for nonfiction. This achievement comes ten years after he won the Booker Prize for fiction. His award-winning memoir, “Question 7,” mixes autobiography with family history and the story of the atomic bomb’s development.

Flanagan previously won the Booker Prize in 2014 for “The Narrow Road to the Deep North.” The novel was inspired by his father’s experiences as a World War II prisoner under Japanese captivity. Toby Mundy, Baillie Gifford Prize director, noted that winning both top U.K.-based fiction and nonfiction awards is unprecedented.

Isabel Hilton, chair of the judging panel, called Flanagan’s work a “meditative symphony.” She praised how it weaves together major traumatic events of the 20th century with a unique personal story. Hilton pointed out that Flanagan’s background in fiction added inventiveness and narrative quality to his book.

Flanagan did not attend the award ceremony in London to accept his trophy personally. Organizers shared that he was trekking through Tasmania’s rainforest at the time of his historic win.

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PUB’S Wild Beer Names Ignite Fury And Laughter

19 November 2024 — A pub in England is under fire for its bold beer names, but the owner calls it harmless fun. The Coach and Horses in Billinghay offers beers like “Osama Bin Lager” and “Kim Jong Ale.” These names have sparked a buzz on social media, with some laughing while others voice concern.

Catherine Mitchell owns the pub with her husband Luke Mitchell, who runs Mitchell Brewing Co., a microbrewery. Earlier this year, “Osama Bin Lager” went viral and sold out fast. Despite the uproar, many patrons reportedly enjoy these playful beverage names.

Mitchell Brewing Co.’s top-selling line is called “The Dictator,” featuring several edgy titles. Luke Mitchell claims most customers appreciate the humor when visiting The Coach and Horses. While some find them offensive, others see it as clever marketing fun.

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IRAN’S Nuclear Threat: Global Fears and Rising Pressure

15 November 2024 — The world is worried about Iran’s nuclear activities. Rafael Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), stressed the need for “concrete, tangible and visible results” during his visit to Tehran. He urged Iran to show progress and ease tensions to possibly avoid conflict.

Grossi’s comments seem directed at Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz’s recent statements. Katz pointed out Israel’s airstrikes in October, saying they revealed Iran’s nuclear sites to potential attacks. He claimed these actions might help remove threats against Israel.

Grossi criticized Iran for not cooperating with IAEA inspectors and increasing uranium enrichment activities. He noted that compliance with inspection rules stopped early in the Biden administration, complicating transparency efforts and resolution attempts.

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