In 'The Book of Strange New Things,' Michel Faber spins a mesmerizing tale of Peter, a dedicated missionary sent to a distant planet to share his faith with an alien race. As Peter immerses himself in the strange new world and its peculiar inhabitants, he grapples with the profound distance from his wife, Bea, left on a ravaged Earth. Their correspondence unveils the stark contrast between the unfolding wonders of the alien society and the chaos of their own planet, raising questions of love, faith, and sacrifice. Themes of connection and isolation intertwine, propelling Peter into a moral quandary that challenges everything he holds dear. This thought-provoking journey blurs the lines between humanity and the unknown, beckoning readers to ponder the true cost of belief in a universe full of wonders.
By Michel Faber
Published: 2015
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Lex Fridman is an artificial intelligence researcher, podcaster, and MIT professor, known for his work in autonomous vehicles, robotics, and deep learning. Fridman has gained widespread popularity through his podcast, Lex Fridman Podcast, where he interviews leading thinkers in science, technology, and philosophy, exploring topics like AI, consciousness, and the future of humanity. His academic work focuses on human-centered AI, aiming to create machines that can better understand and interact with humans. Fridman’s ability to distill complex topics into accessible conversations has earned him a large following, and his podcast is known for its thoughtful, in-depth discussions with some of the brightest minds of our time. He is also an advocate for the responsible development of AI, emphasizing the ethical implications of this rapidly advancing technology. Outside of academia and podcasting, Fridman is a practitioner of jiu-jitsu and frequently speaks about the importance of discipline and continuous learning.
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View CollectionBarack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
View CollectionJoel Connolly is an acclaimed author renowned for his evocative storytelling and profound explorations of human nature. His debut novel, "Silent Whispers," garnered critical acclaim and won the prestigious Man Booker Prize, establishing him as a significant voice in contemporary literature. Connolly's works often delve into themes of identity, loss, and redemption, resonating deeply with a diverse readership. In addition to his novels, he has contributed thought-provoking essays to major literary journals, further solidifying his reputation as a versatile writer. Connolly continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide with his compelling narratives and insightful prose.
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View CollectionElon Musk is an influential entrepreneur and innovator known for founding and leading several groundbreaking companies, including Tesla, SpaceX, Neuralink, and The Boring Company. He has played a pivotal role in advancing electric vehicles, space exploration, and renewable energy. Musk's vision extends to colonizing Mars and reducing the risk of human extinction through space travel. In addition to his technological contributions, he has co-authored the book "Spacex: Making Commercial Spaceflight a Reality," providing insights into his ambitious projects and vision for the future. Musk's relentless pursuit of innovation continues to shape the trajectory of multiple industries.
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View CollectionBill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.
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View CollectionCraig Newmark is an influential American entrepreneur and philanthropist, best known for founding the groundbreaking online classified ad service, Craigslist, in 1995. Although his primary impact lies in transforming online commerce and community interaction, Newmark has also contributed to literature through his advocacy for trustworthy journalism and information integrity. He established Craig Newmark Philanthropies, which supports numerous initiatives that bolster ethical journalism, voter protection, and veterans' welfare. Newmark's work has significantly shaped the digital landscape and has been recognized for enhancing public access to reliable information. His ongoing efforts continue to promote transparency and trust within media and technology sectors.
View CollectionMelinda Gates is a prominent philanthropist, businesswoman, and author known for her groundbreaking work in global health and education. She co-founded the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which has become one of the world's largest private charitable organizations. In 2019, she published her acclaimed book "The Moment of Lift: How Empowering Women Changes the World," which explores the transformative power of women's empowerment. Gates is also recognized for her advocacy in promoting gender equality and her efforts to address social issues such as poverty and access to healthcare. Her work has earned her numerous accolades and a prominent place in the discourse on global development and social justice.
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View CollectionKendall Jenner is a renowned American model, media personality, and socialite, who gained fame through the reality television series "Keeping Up with the Kardashians." While her primary achievements are in the fashion and entertainment industries, she has also ventured into the literary world. Alongside her sister Kylie Jenner, Kendall co-authored the young adult dystopian science fiction novel "Rebels: City of Indra" in 2014. The book showcases her creative storytelling abilities and expands her influence beyond television and modeling. Kendall's multifaceted career highlights her versatility and appeal across various media platforms.
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