Space: NASA has announced that it has discovered a new planet that could potentially support life. The planet, which is located 40 light-years from Earth, is in the habitable zone of its star, which means that it has the right temperature for liquid water to exist on its surface.

#Space #NASA

India: India has successfully tested its first intercontinental ballistic missile, the Agni-V. The missile has a range of over 5,000 kilometers, which puts it within reach of targets in China and Pakistan.

#India #Pakistan #China

China: The Chinese government has announced that it will be conducting military exercises near Taiwan next week. The exercises are seen as a show of force in response to the US decision to sell arms to Taiwan.

#China #Taiwan

Ukraine: Russia continues its missile attacks on Ukrainian cities, causing widespread damage and civilian casualties. The city of Odesa was hit by a missile strike on Wednesday, killing at least 18 people and injuring dozens more.

#Ukraine #Russia

Hastinapur #1 The Winds of Hastinapur by Sharath Komarraju

‘My hair is white and thin, now. In a few moons, the Goddess will claim me, and I do not have a fresh young virgin by my side to absorb my knowledge and take my place once I am gone. The Mysteries of Ganga and her Sight will vanish with me, and the Great River will become nothing more than a body of lifeless water … It is my intention, therefore, to tell you the story as it happened, as I saw it happen.’ #SharathKomarraju

Cairokee Band - تلك قضية

#Gaza
#FreePalestine
#Cairokee

#PDFDownload The Great Arab Conquests by John Bagot Glubb

In less than fifty years, the Bedouins of Arabia established the greatest empire in the world of their day and one of the greatest in history. These years, from 630-680, not only transformed a whole vast region, but ensured that the pattern of life in the Middle East would never be the same again. Muhammed and his immediate successors decided the framework of many things for thirteen hundred years. In this vivid book, Arabic scholar John "Pasha" Glubb chronicles the amazingly short period of time in which the Bedouin Empire developed, highlighting the simplicity of its administration and the many victories achieved through sheer zeal and courage by relatively untrained and unorganized armies. Illustrated with carefully researched b&w maps, Glubb's history is made relevant and highly readable by his forthright style, his knowledge of the terrain, and his gift for seeing modern parallels, rendering this one of the best one-volume treatments of the subject ever written.

#PDFDownload Nimona by N.D. Stevenson

The graphic novel debut from rising star Noelle Stevenson, based on her beloved and critically acclaimed web comic, which Slate awarded its Cartoonist Studio Prize, calling it "a deadpan epic."
Nemeses! Dragons! Science! Symbolism! All these and more await in this brilliantly subversive, sharply irreverent epic from Noelle Stevenson. Featuring an exclusive epilogue not seen in the web comic, along with bonus conceptual sketches and revised pages throughout, this gorgeous full-color graphic novel is perfect for the legions of fans of the web comic and is sure to win Noelle many new ones.
Nimona is an impulsive young shapeshifter with a knack for villainy. Lord Ballister Blackheart is a villain with a vendetta. As sidekick and supervillain, Nimona and Lord Blackheart are about to wreak some serious havoc. Their mission: prove to the kingdom that Sir Ambrosius Goldenloin and his buddies at the Institution of Law Enforcement and Heroics aren't the heroes everyone thinks they are.
But as small acts of mischief escalate into a vicious battle, Lord Blackheart realizes that Nimona's powers are as murky and mysterious as her past. And her unpredictable wild side might be more dangerous than he is willing to admit. #NDStevenson

#PDFDownload Zodiac Academy #8 Sorrow and Starlight by Caroline Peckham , Susanne Valenti

All stars must fall.
Bloody, lost, broken. We live to fight another day. But with so much stolen from us, can the fates ever twist in our favour again?
My sister and I have been torn apart by shadows and despair, and now we each stand alone.
Our sorrow is spun like a web, trapping us tight, and I fear our enemies will soon come to feast upon our souls.
But if I have my way, the merciless sky will have dealt us its final fortune. It’s time for us to take back the power that’s been ripped from our grasp and turn the tide of this war.
All stars must fall, and all Phoenixes must rise.
Long live the Savage Queens.
*This will now be book 8 of 9 in the series*
#CarolinePeckham #SusanneValenti

#PDFDownload Zodiac Academy 8.5 Beyond The Veil by Caroline Peckham , Susanne Valenti

The stars called us.
The Veil closed at our backs.
And now death holds us in its clutches.
We were torn from life before our time, a Savage King, his queen, a betrayed son, a wronged brother, a scorned wife and so many more. We watch those we left behind as they struggle against the grip of the stars, the answers to so many of their questions within our grasp and yet out of their reach.
But what if we could find a way to answer their pleas? What if we could find a way to help them from this side of the divide? And what price would such a thing come at?
***This is a bridging book which takes place beyond The Veil (in the land of the dead) during the events of book 8 in the Zodiac Academy series. It should be read after book 8 to avoid spoilers for that book and holds the answer to what takes place for the characters who are held within the clutches of death by this point in the story, as well as vital clues to the conclusion of this epic series*** #CarolinePeckham #SusanneValenti

#PDFDownload Zodiac Academy #1 The Awakening by Caroline Peckham , Susanne Valenti

I’m a Gemini. Impulsive. Curious. Headstrong. A twin. Heir to a throne I know nothing about. And it turns out, I’m Fae. But of course there’s a catch - all I have to do to claim my birth right is prove that I’m the most powerful supernatural in the whole of Solaria. And sure, technically that’s true as I’m the daughter of the Savage King. But the bit they didn’t put in the brochure was that every single Fae in this Kingdom would claim my throne if they could. The school they’ve sent me to is both dangerous as sh*t and one helluva party. Vampires bite weaker students in the corridors, the Werewolf pack has orgies in the Wailing Wood at every full moon and don’t even get me started on the dark and twisted ways the Sirens use their powers on people’s emotions, or how my sinfully tempting Cardinal Magic teacher hosts detentions that leave people needing therapy. Classes are totally interesting if you manage to live through them. And that Gemini star sign I mentioned? It now determines my elemental magic and affects my destiny, so learning astrology is essential if I’m going to beat down my classmates – which is actively encouraged by the way. My biggest problem is the drool worthy Dragon shifter who has his eyes on my throne. He and his three psycho friends are determined to make my time here hell. All I’ve got to do is survive. #CarolinePeckham #SusanneValenti

#PDFDownload The Great Arab Conquests: How the Spread of Islam Changed the World We Live In by Hugh Kennedy

Today’s Arab world was created at breathtaking speed. In just over 100 years following the death of Mohammed in 632, Arabs had subjugated a territory with an east-west expanse greater than the Roman Empire. They did it in about one-half the time. By the mid-8th century, Arab armies had conquered the 1000-year-old Persian Empire, reduced the Byzantine Empire to little more than a city-state based around Constantinople, and destroyed the Visigoth kingdom of Spain. The cultural and linguistic effects of this early Islamic expansion reverberate today. This is the first popular English-language account in many years of this astonishing remaking of the political and religious map of the world. Hugh Kennedy’s sweeping narrative reveals how the Arab armies conquered almost everything in their path, and brings to light the unique characteristics of Islamic rule. One of the few academic historians with a genuine talent for story telling, Kennedy offers a compelling mix of larger-than-life characters, fierce battles, and the great clash of civilizations and religions. #HughKennedy

#PDFDownload Climate by Whitney Hanson

The only constant in life is change. Climate is a journey in embracing change both internally and externally. It guides you through all the weather you face. From heartbreak to the storms you create inside your brain, Climate reminds you to embrace the sun, storm, and rain. Most importantly, it emphasizes the beauty, value, and consistency of change. #WhitneyHanson

#PDFDownload Home: poems to heal your heartbreak by Whitney Hanson

From Tiktok phenomenon Whitney Hanson, a revised edition of her bestselling Home , now with a new introduction and more than a dozen new poems

"the bees aren't going to go away
but they are going to change with you
sometimes they will be chaotic
sometimes they will rest
sometimes they will give you sweet honey
and sometimes they will remind you
of how much love can sting
but if you can find a home within yourself
and make peace with your bees
you will be alright"
--from Home

Resonant, raw, and vibrant, Home is a lyrical map to navigating heartbreak. Tracing the stages of healing - from the despair that comes with the end of a relationship to the eventual light and liberation that comes with time - the poems in Home provide comfort and solace, while revitalizing your soul - and helping you make peace with your bees. #WhitneyHanson

#PDFDownload The 100 Greatest Advertisements 1852-1958: Who Wrote Them and What They Did by Julian Watkins

Styles in advertising will change, but there is no copywriter, artist, or campaign planner who will not profit by studying proved successes, whether of 50 years ago or today. In this single volume are 100 of what are probably among the most successful advertisements ever to appear in print, plus an additiional 13 added especially for this edition.
These 113 ads are proven salesmen―almost every one had phenomenal results. They have not been included because of personal whim, or for their beauty. The ultimate criterion here is the only one that really counts: whether an ad did what it was supposed to do. These ads helped change the habits of a nation, built reputations, gave new expressions to the language and―first and foremost―sold millions of dollars of merchandise, from Rolls Royce automobiles to Lux Soap, from Riviera Pears to Steinway Pianos.

#PDFDownload Regency Faerie Tales #1 Half a Soul by Olivia Atwater

It's difficult to find a husband in Regency England when you're a young lady with only half a soul.
Ever since she was cursed by a faerie, Theodora Ettings has had no sense of fear or embarrassment - a condition which makes her prone to accidental scandal. Dora hopes to be a quiet, sensible wallflower during the London Season - but when the strange, handsome and utterly uncouth Lord Sorcier discovers her condition, she is instead drawn into dangerous and peculiar faerie affairs.
If Dora's reputation can survive both her curse and her sudden connection with the least-liked man in all of high society, then she may yet reclaim her normal place in the world. . . but the longer Dora spends with Elias Wilder, the more she begins to suspect that one may indeed fall in love, even with only half a soul.
Bridgerton meets Howl's Moving Castle in this enchanting historical fantasy, where the only thing more meddlesome than faeries is a marriage-minded mother.
Pick up HALF A SOUL, and be stolen away into Olivia Atwater's charming, magical version of Regency England! #OliviaAtwater

#PDFDownload From Manhattan with Love #1 Sleepless in Manhattan by Sarah Morgan

USA TODAY bestselling author Sarah Morgan introduces a sizzling new trilogy about three best friends embracing life—and love—in Manhattan
Cool, calm and competent, events planner Paige Walker loves a challenge. After a childhood spent in and out of hospitals, she's now determined to prove herself—and where better to take the world by storm than in the exhilarating bustle of Manhattan? But when Paige is let go from the job she loves, she must face her biggest challenge of all—going it alone.
Except launching her own events company is nothing compared to hiding her outrageous crush on Jake Romano—her brother's best friend, New York's most in-demand date, and the only man to break her heart. When Jake offers Paige's fledgling company a big chance, their still-sizzling chemistry starts giving her sleepless nights. But can she convince the man who trusts no one to take a chance on forever? #SarahMorgan

#PDFDownload O'Neil Brothers #1 Sleigh Bells in the Snow by Sarah Morgan

Once upon a time Kayla loved Christmas
Now she’s more dedicated to her job than decking the halls, and can’t wait for the ‘most wonderful time of the year’ to be over.
Until she arrives at the enchanting Snow Crystal ski resort, determined to win gorgeous owner Jackson as a marketing client.
But wooing Jackson professionally quickly turns personal as they spend flirty festive nights in this glittering winter wonderland.
With snowflakes swirling and sleigh bells ringing…could Jackson be the one to make Kayla fall back under the Christmas spell?
#SarahMorgan

Golden Globes Aftermath: From Tears to Triumphs

The 2024 Golden Globes was a night to remember, a whirlwind of emotions, stunning fashion, and unexpected surprises. Brie Larson's tearful reunion with Jennifer Lopez, Robert De Niro's hilarious "oops" moment, and Dua Lipa's polarizing dress were just a few of the highlights that left everyone buzzing. But beyond the red carpet glitz, meaningful moments arose: Sinéad O'Connor's powerful tribute to the victims of sexual abuse, Taylor Swift's heartwarming friendship with Keleigh Teller, and the inspiring diversity among the winners. Let's delve deeper into some of the key takeaways from this unforgettable night. #GoldenGlobes

Japan Quake Aftermath: Resilience and Rebuilding in Face of Tragedy

The recent earthquake in Japan, measuring 7.8 on the Richter scale, has left a trail of devastation in its wake. Coastal cities bore the brunt of the destruction, with towering waves crashing into homes and sweeping debris inland. While the full extent of the damage is still being assessed, the resilience and spirit of the Japanese people are already on display as they begin the long process of rebuilding and recovery.

The immediate aftermath of the earthquake saw an outpouring of support from within Japan and across the globe. Rescue teams work tirelessly to locate survivors trapped under rubble, while emergency services provide medical aid and basic necessities to those affected. The Japanese government has mobilized resources to expedite rescue efforts and coordinate relief activities.

Despite the immense challenges, Japan's history of experiencing and overcoming natural disasters has imbued its people with a profound sense of resilience. Communities come together, offering shelter, sharing food and water, and providing emotional support to one another. Volunteer groups emerge, dedicating their time and skills to clearing debris and rebuilding damaged infrastructure.

The journey towards recovery will be long and arduous. Infrastructure needs repair, damaged homes must be rebuilt, and livelihoods need to be restored. The economic impact of the quake is significant, with businesses facing losses and disruptions to vital supply chains. However, Japan's commitment to innovation and technological advancement plays a crucial role in enabling faster and more efficient reconstruction efforts.

The earthquake also serves as a stark reminder of the importance of disaster preparedness. Robust early warning systems, strong building codes, and regular public education programs are essential to minimize damage and loss of life during future seismic events.

Gaza Conflict Escalates: Mounting Humanitarian Crisis and Uncertain Path Forward

The world watches with increasing alarm as the conflict in Gaza intensifies. With casualties rising on both sides, particularly in Gaza, concerns for a wider regional escalation grip the international community. Hamas rocket attacks, while condemned, are seen as a response to continued Israeli airstrikes and the ongoing blockade of Gaza.

The human cost of this conflict is devastating. Palestinians in Gaza, already living under harsh conditions, face a desperate situation. Hospitals struggle to cope with the influx of wounded, while food and water supplies dwindle. Homes lie in ruins, families are displaced, and fear hangs heavy in the air.

International calls for a ceasefire grow louder each day. Egypt, Qatar, and the United Nations all work tirelessly to broker a truce, but mistrust and simmering tensions make the path forward extremely challenging. Both sides blame the other for the escalation, with entrenched positions seemingly immovable.

Beyond the immediate humanitarian crisis, the conflict raises broader questions about the future of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The two-state solution, long considered the only viable path to peace, appears ever more distant. The legitimacy of Hamas and the Israeli government face increasing scrutiny, while doubts regarding a viable alternative peace plan intensify. #Gaza

Doctors Accuse #Israel of "War Crimes" as Hospital Declared Hamas Base (Human Rights) - Disturbing allegations emerge from Palestinian territory, further fueling tensions and demands for international investigations. #Gaza

Pope Francis Urges Peace on Christmas Eve, Laments "Futile" War in #Ukraine (Religion) - Religious leader delivers strong message for global unity and ceasefire during annual Christmas Eve mass.

War in the Holy Land Escalates: Gaza Faces Famine as Netanyahu Promises "Heavy Price" (Breaking) - Israel and Hamas locked in bitter conflict with rising casualties and potential humanitarian crisis. UN calls for immediate ceasefire and increased aid to Gaza. #Gaza

In solidarity with Palestinian rights
Stop genocide in Gaza.
Stop killing civilians.
Stop targeting hospitals and schools.
Stop misinformation and disinformation.
Stop double standards.
Stop the war.. Spread the just and comprehensive peace.

#Palestine #Gaza

#PDF_Download The Peter Principle by Laurence J. Peter , Raymond Hull

This book caused a storm when first published in 1969, battering up the bestseller list to #1 , charming readers from Topeka to Timbuktu, and finally, brilliantly, blessedly giving the world an answer to a question that nags us Why is incompetence so maddeningly rampant and so vexingly triumphant? The book and the phrase it defined are now considered comedic-yet-classic cornerstones of organizational thought, and in honor of the book's fortieth anniversary, Robert I. Sutton has written a foreword introducing the book to a new generation of readers.

#PDF_Download Rapport: The Four Ways to Read People by Laurence Alison , Emily Alison

Get what you want from even the most difficult characters

All of us have to deal with difficult people. Whether we’re asking our neighbour to move a fence or our boss for a pay rise, we can struggle to avoid arguments and get what we want.

Laurence and Emily Alison are world leaders in forensic psychology, and they specialise in the most difficult interactions imaginable: criminal interrogations. They advise and train the police, security agencies, the FBI and the CIA on how to deal with extremely dangerous suspects when the stakes are high. #LaurenceAlison #EmilyAlison

Hopes for Quick Passage of Ukraine Aid Bill Dim as Border Talks Drag On: Hopes for a quick passage of a new aid package for Ukraine are dimming as talks between congressional Democrats and Republicans over border security drag on. The $45 billion aid package is seen as critical for helping Ukraine continue its fight against Russia. #Russia #Ukraine

Biden Administration Proposes New Steps to Preserve Old-Growth Forests: The Biden administration is proposing a new plan to protect old-growth forests across the United States. The plan would create new safeguards for these ancient trees, which play a critical role in storing carbon and filtering air and water. Critics of the plan argue that it could hurt logging and other industries. #Biden #US

Climate Deal Reached at COP28: Nations Pledge Increased Emissions Reductions: After two weeks of intense negotiations, world leaders at the COP28 climate summit have finally reached an agreement. The deal calls for significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, aiming to keep the global temperature rise below 1.5 degrees Celsius. #COP28