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Richard Flanagan - Wikipedia

AUSTRALIAN Writer’s HISTORIC WIN Stirs Emotions

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.

Richard Simmons - Wikipedia

BELOVED Fitness Icon RICHARD Simmons Dies at 76

Richard Simmons, the energetic fitness guru known for his tank tops and short shorts, died Saturday at age 76. His publicist confirmed his death at his Los Angeles home from natural causes.

Simmons had revealed a skin cancer diagnosis in March 2024 and had recently withdrawn from public view, sparking speculation about his health. TMZ first reported his death.

A former overweight teen, Simmons became famous for promoting weight loss through media like the Emmy-winning “Richard Simmons Show” and best-selling books. His “Sweatin’ to the Oldies” videos were a cultural hit.

Despite becoming a target of jokes for his flamboyant style, Simmons remained dedicated to helping people live healthier lives. “I want to help people and make the world a healthier place,” he said in 1982.

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