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The Furious Gazelle
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Book Review: The Enlightenment of the Greengage Tree by Shokoofeh Azar
May 8, 2020 / The Furious Gazelle Editors / 0 Comments
Review by Tess Tabak
The book's translator asked to remain anonymous for fear of safety
This haunting, evocative novel spins a finely woven tapestry out of the Iranian Revolution, djinns and mermaids, and family lore. If you're willing to go on a meandering journey, Shokoofeh Azar takes you to unique and hauntingly strange places.
This novel truly feels like a piece woven from disparate threads to create a whole. At no point until the end did I ever have any particular idea where the book was going, but I was engaged throughout. Azar sets the tone of magical realism juxtaposed with harsh realities early on, from the very beginning, when the narrator's mother receives enlightenment from a greengage tree: "Beeta says that Mom attained enlightenment at exactly 2:35 p.m. on August 18, 1988, atop the grove's tallest greengage plum tree on a hill overlooking all fifty-three village houses, to the sound of the scrubbing of pots and pans, a ruckus that pulled the grove out of its lethargy every afternoon. At that very moment, blindfolded and hands tied behind his back, Sohrab was hanged."
We learn the history of seemingly every character we meet, whose paths are all connected. The book's fairytale-like structure is reminiscent of the Alchemist or Life of Pi.
However, unlike the Alchemist, this book is centered in harsh reality. It's narrated by the central family's daughter Bahar, who was killed by an angry mob during the Revolution and remains a 13-year-old ghost, continuing to live with and keep watch over her family. The book follows each family member's journey to grapple over the loss of the child, and the loss of Iranian culture and history in the wake of the Revolution. Each character has different methods of coping, from wallowing in grief to intentional forgetfulness.
The language and specificity to detail throughout is spectacular. Talking about herself rejoining the family as a ghost, Bahar writes, "I became an enigmatic family rumor. Those who had come to my funeral later questioned their sanity when they saw me cooking with Mom or reading with Dad. That's how Granddad Jamshid's famous saying became the family mantra. He, who sometimes saw me and sometimes didn't, said with a philosophical air, 'In this world, nothing becomes a reason for anything.' And so it was that family, near and far, gradually accepted me as an inexplicable, enigmatic being."
The book starts in the 1980s and follows the family through to the present, as Beeta grows old and the parents grow very old. As a ghost, Bahar's omniscience allows the novel to take many twists and bends. She has the ability to observe anything she wants to (including, at one point, her sister's lovemaking). The book delves into themes of the barrier between life and death, and the aftermath of the Iranian Revolution. As much as the book is about family history, it's also about escaping unbearable realities into a land of make believe, and the role that lore plays in our real lives.
The harsh realities presented in the book are reflected in the fact that the skilled person behind the English translation chose to remain anonymous out of fear for his or her safety. The author's acknowledgements section includes the poignant line, "I am profoundly grateful to the Australian people for accepting me into this safe and democratic country where I have the freedom to write this book, a liberty denied me in my homeland."
Shortlisted for the 2020 International Booker Prize, this novel has received heaps of literary praise. If you're looking for an escapist, memorable book to get you through isolation, look no further than The Enlightenment of the Greengage Tree.
The Enlightenment of the Greengage Tree is currently available from Europa Editions. This is the first American edition of the book.
2020 novelsEuropa EditionsIranian novelsLiterary fictionMagical realismNovelShokoofeh AzarThe Enlightenment of the Greengage Tree
Poetry by Simon Perchik
"The Inheritance" by Christine Fair
"Targets," an essay by Kay Smith-Blum
"The Gift," a poem by Seth Jani
Book Review: The Cousins by Karen M. McManus
2020 Holiday Gift Guide for Book Lovers
"Pabst Blue Ribbon with Cat on Lap and November Rain" by James Croal Jackson
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A Posh City Shoot in Florence. For obvious reasons, most people tend to choose spring or summer for their special occasions but, believe me, shoot in Florence in the fall season can be very unique. Firstly, because Florence is a bit less busy than in the so called "good season". Secondly, and this is my own personal opinion, because the warm autumn helps the photographer shape up and contour subjects in a sharper way. Lat, but not least, as the views of Florence are clearer and broader due to less leaves being on the trees. So I do have a sort of candid admiration for those who are so brave to pick fall and winter, despite the cold and generally not pleasant weather, for their special moments like and engagement photoshoot.
With this in mind, I had the pleasure of photographing this lovely couple early morning on a mid October day on the occasion of their visit to Florence. As a destination wedding, lifestyle and vacation photographer, I get lucky enough to meet people from all over the world but each time is a different one with new insights for me. What I enjoyed a lot about this photoshoot was the casual yet sober atmosphere due to the lovely souls of this young couple. Look at their joyful smiles and their appetite for life!
I guess this is the most rewarding part for me to take back home after a photoshoot like this one. Who knows if our paths will cross again in the future, yet there is something linking us for good. These pictures will speak for a lifetime.


March 26, 2019 Our gaze is fixed on these punk upstarts who are bringing a much-needed breath of fresh air to the genre.
February 15, 2019 SWMRS is the bleeding heart of a new generation with a message that will not be ignored.
January 15, 2019 SWMRS delivers just what punk rock needs right now.
June 13, 2017 + See all upcoming dates with All Time Low, Blink 182, & Green Day.
June 2, 2017 Featuring Saint Mesa, Corey Harper, SWMRS, The Heydaze, James Hersey, Hippo Campus, and A R I Z O N A.


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Bellbrook of Rochester Condominiums for Sale
Bellbrook of Rochester: Rochester Hills, MI
Square Ft Range: 1,000 to 1100
Bellbrook of Rochester condos for sale in Rochester Hills, MI are located south of W Avon Rd and east of Livermois Rd. The subdivision is in the 48307 zip code. Experience maintenance-free living in this warm and friendly subdivision. Bellbrook of Rochester is an adult community (owner must be 62+) with ranch condos offering 2 bedrooms, 2 full and ½ baths, and 1-car garage. Condos have an open floor plan with hardwood floors, an abundance of storage, laundry facilities and workroom. Kitchens have skylight plus door wall to the courtyard patio. Not all condos have basements but if there is, walkout access is available. Have Access to Bellbrook Facilities Including Walking Trail to Main Building, Exercise Room, Library, and Dining Room. Residents could also avail of free bus service to the Older Persons Commission (OPC). The subdivision is just across Rochester College and is also close to shopping destinations, restaurants, and freeways. Nearby subdivisions are Northridge and Heritage Townhomes.
Buying And Selling Rochester Hills, MI Bellbrook of Rochester Condos:
If you 're interested in investing in a condo for sale in Rochester Hills Michigan in this community, then please contact us at The Perna Team, today. We'll be more than happy to assist you by first telling you about available Rochester Hills MI Bellbrook of Rochester condos for sale.
Bellbrook of Rochester Subdivision Location
Condos for sale in Bellbrook of Rochester, Rochester Hills, MI are located south of W Avon Rd and east of S Livermois Rd.
Across the entrance of Bellbrook of Rochester subdivision is Rochester College. City Hall of Rochester is less than a mile west.
1.2 miles north of the subdivision is in Campus Corners Shopping Center. Kroger, The UPS Store, and CVS are located here. Across the street is Rochester Hills Plaza Shopping Center. It is a small shopping center with less than 10 tenants. Dining options here are Subway, Rochester Diner & Grill, and Bruegger's Bagels. Kroger, The UPS Store, and CVS are located here.
Crittenton Hospital is next to Campus Corners Shopping Center. It is a general medical and surgical hospital with 254 beds. It was accredited by Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). Beaumont Medical Center is 3.5 miles north. It provides outpatient services including dialysis, laboratory services, physical therapy, and radiology.
2 miles north is Great Oaks Country Club. It is an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Mark McCumber. The course was founded in 1971 and it measures 6513 yards from the longest tees. The course features 5 sets of tees for different skill levels. Greens and fairways are bluegrass.
Another golf course is located 5.5 miles south. Pine Trace Golf Club is an 18-hole, 72 par challenging upscale public course designed by Arthur Hills. It opened in 1989. It has a heavily wooded grounds and course design with a great restaurant and fantastic staff. Green fees price range from $32 - $48 on weekdays and $40 to $55 on weekends.
3 miles southwest is Riverbend Park. Clinton River passes through this park which also includes 2 lakes. This 70-acre park was purchased by the city in the 1990s and is currently under development.
Rochester Municipal Park is 2.5 miles north. The park is home to a winding creek, pond, paved walkways, as well as tennis and volleyball courts. The park offer tranquility on a crisp fall or sunny afternoon with stunning scenery with plenty of places to rest. It also offers big play equipment for kids and several benches overlooking the pond for relaxation.
Less than a mile east is Winchester Shopping Center. It is located at the corner of SWC Rochester and Avon Rd. Winchester Shopping Center has 15 stores with more than 1,700 parking spaces. Some of the major stores here are Bank of America, Old Navy, Marshalls, PetSmart, and Michaels.
The Village of Rochester Hills is 3.5 miles northwest. It is an upscale retail center lined with restaurants, shopping, and dining. It features more than 50 tenants and 2 major anchor stores: Carson's and Whole Foods Market. Whole Foods Market offers organic grocery items. Some of the dining options here are Bravo! Cucina Italiana, Mitchell's Fish Market, and Chipotle Mexican Grill.
Bellbrook of Rochester Subdivision Freeway Access
Condos for sale in Bellbrook of Rochester, Rochester Hills, MI are located 2.5 miles north of M-59. The subdivision has convenient access to restaurants, malls, and major roads & freeways.
3 miles west of Bellbrook of Rochester is Oakland University which is the 3rd top employer of Rochester Hills. FANUC Robotics is 4.5 miles southwest which is also included in the top 5 employers of Rochester Hills. 5 miles southwest is Technology Drive. Accurate Gauge Manufacturing, Smc Corporation of America, and Eagle Ottawa are located here.
Bellbrook of Rochester Subdivision School District
Bellbrook of Rochester students attends the Rochester school district. The school district operates 13 elementary schools, 4 middle schools, and 4 high schools.
University Hills Elementary School is less than a mile west. It has a rating of 10/10 by greatschools.org with 450 students enrolled. West Middle School is 1.5 miles west and is rated 7/10 with 860 students. Rochester High School is 1.8 miles north. It was established in 1889 and was first known as the "Academy on the Hill". It is a silver awardee given by US News and has is ranked 38th in the entire state. It has 1,643 students enrolled and has a student: the ratio of 20:1.
Rochester Hills Christian School is 3 miles south. It has 293 students enrolled and accepts grades PK-12.
Holy Family Regional School is 3.3 miles northeast. The school accepts grades K-8.
Oakland Christian School is 5 miles northwest. It is accredited through the North Central Association (NCA) and through the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI). The school offers a co-educational program for students in preschool through 12th grade. High school program is predominately college preparatory with a vocational technology component available through Oakland Technology Center.
Rochester College is across the subdivision. It is a 4-year liberal arts college founded by the Church of Christ in 1959. It is a primarily undergraduate school with very few graduate courses.
Oakland University is 2.5 miles west. This school was established in 1957, and it offers 132 undergraduate and 124 graduate academic programs. It is also a doctoral research university. There are approximately 19000 students enrolled and average tuition fees are $9,280 for freshmen and sophomores; $10,142 for juniors and seniors. Oakland does not charge any fees.
5 miles southwest is Oakland Community College. This school was established in 1957, and it offers 132 undergraduate and 124 graduate academic programs. It is also a doctoral research university. There are approximately 19000 students enrolled and average tuition fees are $9,280 for freshmen and sophomores; $10,142 for juniors and seniors. Oakland does not charge any fees.
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Bellbrook of Rochester Subdivision Photo Gallery

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


What separates great and extraordinary people from the rest of us is their ability to stay humble and rooted to their values all their lives. Greatness does not affect them and they never lose sight of their convictions. It is only people who are insecure and are constantly seeking affirmation from society try to project themselves as great. We have our own share of political masters who demand that their cars carry the symbolic red beacon light and that they are always accompanied by a pilot police car. It is as though they are constantly seeking to showcase their position and are demanding respect from people around them because of this position. This need for self-aggrandizement has not spared some of our traditional religious leaders too.
Swamiji was an example of how he had not allowed his greatness and popularity to affect him at all. I would like to mention two specific incidents that happened when he visited Alwar in today's Rajasthan after his return from America. He was now popular and well-known and he had come to Alwar to meet his intimate friends and disciples. Many of them had assembled at the railway station to accord him a grand welcome. The people in the crowd were well-known personalities who were jostling with one another to receive him. Swamiji's attention fell on one person, apparently a man of no significance standing humbly at the edge of the crowd. The man was shabbily dressed but he was beaming with joy on seeing his Swamiji after such a long time. He too wanted to be in Swamiji's company, but did not have the courage to force his way through the crowd of such eminent people of the town. Swamiji noticed him and called out, 'Ramasnehi! Ramasnehi!' The crowd made way for this simple looking man who then came forward and greeted the Swami. Swamiji affectionately chatted and spent some time with him.
These incidents reflect how Swamiji could remain unaffected by the adulation, name and fame that he received. His concern for the poor and the marginalized was something that was integral to his nature and he always made sure that they had a special place in his heart.
Previous Article What kind of reforms does India need today?


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The Ascent of Christian Law
This work asks the question: "What did Christianity do to build a civilization"? In the present age, law has been used energetically to micro-manage human societies, values, and aspirations. But did law work that way in antiquity? This little book is some form of answer. It is a book on law and legal thought as it emerged in its formative ages of the Christian past; it asks what the ancient writers and theorists did with law and legal thought. It is part history, part philosophy, and more than anything else an introduction to issues of law and legal adjudication in the Patristic and Byzantine eras.
About the Author: John A. McGuckin is a world-renowned scholar, the author of more than twenty-five books and over one hundred articles. He was Nielson Professor of Early Church History at Union Theological Seminary, and taught for over thirty years in numerous universities in Europe and America. He is a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society of Great Britain, and is the recipient of honorary doctorates from St Vladimir's Orthodox Theological Seminary and Sibiu University. He is an archpriest of the Orthodox Church of Romania, and the recipient of the Romanian Order of St Stephen, the Gold Cross of Moldavia and Bukovina.


Versatile and robust, Coupatan mechanical run back time switches are designed for long term reliability within a compact case construction. This adaptable modular design makes Coupatan timers the first choice and industry standard, providing a wide variety of applications from heaters, ovens, free standing cookers, grills, toasters and barbecues to fans, saunas, battery chargers, as well as a host of industrial applications.
Allsales Agencies Ltd, PO Box 300-232 Albany, NSC 0752, Auckland New Zealand.


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Bernard "Tony" Rosenthal Papers
Abstract In 1939, Tony Rosenthal attended the Cranbrook Academy of Art to study sculpture with Carl Milles. There he met and became friends with Charles Eames, Florence Schust Knoll, Eero Saarinen, and others. After WWII, Rosenthal worked on commissions for several architectural firms and taught sculpture at UCLA. In 1960, he moved to New York City where he exhibited in galleries and received commissions to create outdoor sculptures in New York City, Honolulu, Ann Arbor, and other cities. In 1980,...
Edwin C. "Ted" Rust Collection of Carl Milles Correspondence
In the summer of 1935 Ted Rust attended the Cranbrook Academy of Art as a sculpture student, studying under Carl Milles. This collection of eight letters complements the collection of Milles' correspondence. Milles, a prolific letter writer, often corresponded with students and remained friends with them for years after they left Cranbrook. These eight letters are typical and reflect Milles' views on life, art, philosophy, and world politics.
Saarinen Family Papers
Abstract Finnish architect, Gottlieb Eliel Saarinen was born August 20, 1873. In 1904 Saarinen married artist Minna Carolina Mathilde Louise "Loja" Gesellius (b. 1879). The Saarinen's daughter Eeva Lisa "Pipsan" was born in Helsingfors, Finland on 31 March 1905 and their son Eero was born in Kyrkslaett, Finland on 20 August 1910. In 1923 Eliel met the Detroit newspaper magnate George Gough Booth, who was to become his chief patron in America. At Booth's invitation, Saarinen moved his practice to...
Astrid Sampe Collection of Eero Saarinen Correspondence
Abstract Astrid Sampe studied at the Higher Industrial Art School of Stockholm and as an exchange student at the Royal Academy of Art in London. Her career spanned many decades starting in 1935, and encompassed being head of Nordiska Kompaniet (NK), being appointed "Royal Designer, Hon.RDI of the Royal Society of Arts and, in 1951, wove the first fiberglass fabrics. This collection comprises correspondence reflecting the romantic attachment between Eero Saarinen and Astrid Sampe, as well as her role...
Maja Schjolin Papers
Abstract In 1951, Maija and her husband Hans moved to a three acre property in Birmingham, Michigan three miles southeast of Cranbrook. Over the course of thirty years, Maja created the largest and most diverse wild plant garden in Michigan, with over 300 varieties of plants. Her wildflower garden was widely visited attended by garden enthusiasts and tour groups, and often attracted publicity in the local press. She developed a close friendship with botanist James R. Wells of Cranbrook Institute of...
Nona Bymark Soderlind Scrapbook
Abstract Nona Bymark Soderlind was born Elenora Maria Bymark on July 16, 1900, in Marine on St. Croix, Minnesota, a small community largely populated by Swedish immigrants. The family relocated to Minneapolis by 1915. She attended Minneapolis Art School for two years (1920 and 1922), where she studied sculpture under Charles S. Wells (1872-1956). She also studied art at the University of Minnesota under Samuel Chatwood Burton (1881-1947); and returned for another semester of study at the...


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Analysis: Michael Flynn pleaded the Fifth on the most basic question of our democracy
by Analysis by Chris Cillizza and CNN June 29, 2022 June 29, 2022
FILE - Michael Flynn, President Donald Trump's former national security adviser, departs a federal courthouse after a hearing, Monday, June 24, 2019, in Washington. President Donald Trump has pardoned Michael Flynn, taking direct aim in the final days of his administration at a Russia investigation that he has long insisted was motivated by political bias. Trump announced the pardon on Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2020 calling it his "Great Honor." (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
(CNN) — Michael Flynn wasn't the star of the House January 6 committee's hearing on Tuesday. In fact, he appeared — via taped video testimony — for less than five minutes.
And yet, what Flynn said — or, really, didn't say — deserves far more attention than it got.
Here's the exchange:
Cheney: Do you believe the violence on January 6 was justified morally?
Flynn: Take the Fifth.
Cheney: Do you believe the violence on January 6 was justified legally?
Flynn: Fifth
Cheney: Do you believe in the peaceful transition of power in the United States of America?
Flynn: The Fifth
So, just to be crystal clear, Flynn cited his right not to incriminate himself when asked directly whether he believes in the peaceful transition of power. He refused to answer whether he believes in a principle that sits, literally, at the heart of American democracy.
And, he did this as the former national security adviser to the the President of the United States and a longtime member of the US military.
When you stop and think about all of that, it's almost breathtaking.
Except when you consider what else Flynn has said over the past few years as he became more and more identified with the most extreme elements of Donald Trump's base.
In June 2021, Flynn was asked a question about why the coup in Myanmar that had seen the military seize control of the government couldn't (or shouldn't) happen in the United States.
"No reason," replied Flynn. "I mean, it should happen here. No reason."
In December 2020, Flynn seemed to entertain the possibility of martial law to keep Trump in office.
"It's not unprecedented," he said on December 17. "I mean, these people out there talking about martial law, like it's something that we've never done. Martial law has been instituted 64 times. …"I'm not calling for that."
Flynn has also suggested that Covid-19 was created as a way to steal the 2020 election. "So let's introduce something called Covid, and they did it," Flynn told Infowars host — and noted conspiracy theorist — Alex Jones this past January.
Flynn's life over the past few years has been as chaotic as his views. In December 2017, he pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI about his contacts with the Russians and became a cooperating witness in special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation of Russian meddling in the 2016 election. He eventually rescinded that guilty plea, broke off cooperation with Mueller and, at the end of Trump's term, received a broad pardon.
Given all of that, it is deeply telling that Flynn pleaded the Fifth when asked whether he believed in a peaceful transfer of power. Because, well, he may not.
Trump pardons Michael Flynn via tweet
In "Election Central"
Obama warned Trump not to hire Michael Flynn. Trump ignored him.
Sidney Powell is a beacon of hope to sad Qanon supporters
Tagged: Donald Trump, January 6th, Michael Flynn, Mike Flynn, U.S. News, U.S. Politics


and ensure that communities are resilient to major challenges.
Enhancing international cooperation and collaboration to prevent epidemics and improve disease detection, surveillance, and response.
Advancing priorities and strategies to prepare for, respond to, and recover from large-scale epidemics of natural or deliberate origin.
to prepare for and respond to disasters that threaten the public's health.
Identifying, analyzing, and informing leaders about new and emerging threats to the public's health and security.
Enhancing understanding of the relationships among the life sciences, national security, and the public's health.
Collective intelligence from crowdsourced forecast data will provide health sector leaders with new, actionable information to guide decision making about preparedness and response policies and interventions.
We're grateful to report that 2018 was a year of exciting new opportunities for the Center and promise for the future of the health security field.
An illustration of the current state of the world's global health security architecture, which has evolved in the aftermath of the recent outbreak of Ebola in West Africa.
Predatory bacteria may serve to combat Gram negative bacterial infections, including those considered potential bioweapon agents, in the future.
Monitoring US government action in preparedness and response.
Analysis of advances and challenges in clinical biosecurity.


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package net.sf.jabb.util.bean;

/**
 * Generic bean to contain result/response information.

 * 通用的存放返回结果的Bean。
 *
 * @author Zhengmao HU (James)
 *
 */
public class GenericResult<T> {
	/**
	 * Whether the request was processed successfully.

	 * 是否成功处理了请求。
	 */
	protected boolean successful;
	/**
	 * Detail of the error if there is any.

	 * 出错消息(仅针对操作不成功的情况)
	 */
	protected String errorMessage;
	/**
	 * Any further information.<be>
	 * 更进一步的信息。
	 */
	protected T attachment;

	/**
	 * Constructor.

	 * 创建一个对象实例。
	 * @param successful	Successful or not
	 * @param errorMsg		Error message
	 * @param att			Attachement
	 */
	public GenericResult(boolean successful, String errorMsg, T att){
		this.successful = successful;
		this.errorMessage = errorMsg;
		this.attachment = att;
	}

	/**
	 * Constructor without the need of attachment parameter.
	 *
	 * @param successful	Successful or not
	 * @param errorMsg		Error message
	 */
	public GenericResult(boolean successful, String errorMsg){
		this(successful, errorMsg, null);
	}

	public GenericResult(boolean successful){
		this(successful, null, null);
	}

	public GenericResult(){
	}

	@Override
	public String toString(){
		return "successful = " + successful + "\nerrorMessage = " + errorMessage + "\nattachment = " + attachment;
	}

	public boolean isSuccessful() {
		return successful;
	}
	public void setSuccessful(boolean successful) {
		this.successful = successful;
	}
	public String getErrorMessage() {
		return errorMessage;
	}
	public void setErrorMessage(String errorMessage) {
		this.errorMessage = errorMessage;
	}
	public T getAttachment() {
		return attachment;
	}
	public void setAttachment(T attachment) {
		this.attachment = attachment;
	}

}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


Though naturally strong and driven, Jorge was not selected for the SPARTAN-II program based on his physical strength and tenacity alone. Indeed, where others failed Jorge often had a plan, and he preferred to overcome obstacles with subtlety and minimum expenditure of lives and resources. While brave and exceptionally lucky, Jorge was something of a fatalist toward the end of his career, believing that he had long outlived the span of time allotted to a Spartan warrior. For this reason, he would often take risks he deemed worthwhile for the good of his unit and the UNSC. Despite having only lived there as a civilian for a meager six years, he was also oddly sentimental about Reach and held the planet and her people close to his heart well into his career as a Spartan.
Jorge was a native of Reach and was born in the small city of Pálháza. After his abduction for the SPARTAN-II program at the age of six, Jorge was trained to be an augmented soldier of unequaled value and formidability. He fought against the Covenant and humans rebels for decades, later finding placement on the Special Warfare fireteam called Noble, which was primarily composed of younger, less-experienced Spartan-III super-soldiers. As Noble Five, this career soldier served in numerous military campaigns, providing invaluable support for the team from his seasoned combat history, ultimately culminating in a return to his home planet of Reach. On August 14, 2552, Jorge died in defense of his homeworld, manually triggering a slipspace event near the Covenant supercarrier Long Night of Solace in an effort to stem the enemy's implacable naval strength.


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The Murderbot Diaries, Book 3
By: Martha Wells
Narrated by: Kevin R. Free
Series: Murderbot Diaries, Book 3
All Systems Red
All Systems Red is the tense first science fiction adventure novella in Martha Wells' series The Murderbot Diaries. For fans of Westworld, Ex Machina, Ann Leckie's Imperial Raadch series, or Iain M. Banks' Culture novels. The main character is a deadly security droid that has bucked its restrictive programming and is balanced between contemplative self-discovery and an idle instinct to kill all humans.
Well written & narrated, but short for 1 credit
By D. Marsh on 14-05-18
Princess Floralinda and the Forty-Flight Tower
By: Tamsyn Muir
Narrated by: Moira Quirk
When the witch built the 40-flight tower, she made very sure to do the whole thing properly. Each flight contains a dreadful monster, ranging from a diamond-scaled dragon to a pack of slavering goblins. Should a prince battle his way to the top, he will be rewarded with a golden sword - and the lovely Princess Floralinda. But no prince has managed to conquer the first flight yet, let alone get to the 40th. In fact, the supply of fresh princes seems to have quite dried up.
By Maedbh on 19-12-20
Bear Head
By: Adrian Tchaikovsky
Narrated by: Laurence Bouvard, Nathan Osgood, William Hope
Mars. The red planet. A new frontier for humanity: a civilisation where humans can live in peace, lord and master of all they survey. But this isn't Space City from those old science-fiction books. It's more like Hell City, built into and from a huge crater. There's a big silk canopy over it, feeding out atmosphere as we generate it, little by little, because we can't breathe the air here. I guess it's a perfect place to live, if you want to live on Mars. At some point I must have wanted to live on Mars, because here I am.
A fine sequel
By paul sparks on 08-01-21
Gideon the Ninth
Tamsyn Muir's Gideon the Ninth unveils a solar system of swordplay, cut-throat politics, and lesbian necromancers. Her characters leap out of the audio, as skillfully animated as arcane revenants. The result is a heart-pounding epic science fantasy. Brought up by unfriendly, ossifying nuns, ancient retainers, and countless skeletons, Gideon is ready to abandon a life of servitude and an afterlife as a reanimated corpse.
This maybe the best audio book I've "read"
By Neil on 14-12-19
The Protectorate
The last thing Sanda remembers is her gunship exploding. She expected to be recovered by salvage medics and to awaken in friendly hands, patched up and ready to rejoin the fight. Instead she wakes up 230 years later, on a deserted enemy starship called The Light of Berossus - or, as he prefers to call himself, 'Bero'. Bero tells Sanda the war is lost. That the entire star system is dead. But is that the full story? After all, in the vastness of space, anything is possible.
Long, mostly engaging story with a lot of twists
By DebB on 22-08-19
The Cloud Roads
Narrated by: Christopher Kipiniak
Moon has spent his life hiding what he is - a shape-shifter able to transform himself into a winged creature of flight. An orphan with only vague memories of his own kind, Moon tries to fit in among the tribes of his river valley, with mixed success. Just as Moon is once again cast out by his adopted tribe, he discovers a shape-shifter like himself... someone who seems to know exactly what he is, who promises that Moon will be welcomed into his community.
By A. Willmer on 10-12-20
A Memory Called Empire
By: Arkady Martine
Ambassador Mahit Dzmare travels to the Teixcalaanli Empire's interstellar capital, eager to take up her new post. Yet when she arrives, she discovers her predecessor was murdered. But no one will admit his death wasn't accidental – and she might be next. Now Mahit must navigate the capital's enticing yet deadly halls of power, to discover dangerous truths. And while she hunts for the killer, Mahit must somehow prevent the rapacious Empire from annexing her home: a small, fiercely independent mining station.
Astonishingly good!
We Are Legion (We Are Bob)
Bobiverse, Book 1
By: Dennis E. Taylor
Narrated by: Ray Porter
There's a reason We Are Legion was named Audible's Best Science Fiction Book of 2016: Its irresistibly irreverent wit! Bob Johansson has just sold his software company for a small fortune and is looking forward to a life of leisure. The first item on his to-do list: Spending his newfound windfall. On an urge to splurge, he signs up to have his head cryogenically preserved in case of death. Then he gets himself killed crossing the street. Waking up 117 years later, Bob discovers his mind has been uploaded into a sentient space probe with the ability to replicate itself.
An unexpected gem
Ancillary Justice
The Imperial Radch series, Book 1
By: Ann Leckie
Narrated by: Adjoa Andoh
The spectacular debut novel nominated for every major science fiction award in 2014, Ancillary Justice is the story of a warship trapped in a human body and her search for revenge. Winner of the Arthur C. Clarke Award, the Nebula Award, the British Science Fiction Association Award, a James Tiptree Jr. honour and a Kitschie. Currently shortlisted for the Hugo Awards. They made me kill thousands, but I only have one target now.
Interestingly feminist SciFi
By Jonathan on 16-11-14
Old Man's War, Book 1
By: John Scalzi
Narrated by: William Dufris
At 75 years old, John Perry is after a fresh start - so, naturally, he joins the army. Earth's military machine can transform elderly recruits, restoring their lost youth. But in return, its Colonial Defence Force demands two years of hazardous service in space. This is how Perry finds himself in a new body crafted from his original DNA. A genetically enhanced and upgraded new body, ready for battle. But upgrades alone won't keep Perry safe. He'll be fighting for his life on the front line as he defends humanity's colonies.
Unnexpectedly funny, new take on Sci Fi Cliche
By Andy on 26-10-17
The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet
Wayfarers, Book 1
By: Becky Chambers
Narrated by: Patricia Rodriguez
Firefly meets Mass Effect in this thrilling self-published debut! When Rosemary Harper joins the crew of the Wayfarer, she isn't expecting much. The Wayfarer, a patched-up ship that's seen better days, offers her everything she could possibly want: a small, quiet spot to call home for a while, adventure in far-off corners of the galaxy, and distance from her troubled past. But Rosemary gets more than she bargained for with the Wayfarer.
Well intentioned but uninvolving
A space salvager and her partner make the discovery of a lifetime that just might change the universe in this wild, big-ideas space opera from multi-award-winning author Elizabeth Bear. Haimey Dz thinks she knows what she wants. She thinks she knows who she is. She is wrong. A routine salvage mission uncovers evidence of a terrible crime and relics of a powerful ancient technology, just as Haimey and her small crew run afoul of pirates at the outer limits of the Milky Way and find themselves both on the run and in possession of ancient, universe-changing technology.
Great space ideas , internalizing main character
By stephen carrigg on 18-03-19
A Novella
In her new novella, Sunday Times best-selling author Becky Chambers imagines a future in which, instead of terraforming planets to sustain human life, explorers of the solar system instead transform themselves. Adriane is one such explorer. As an astronaut on an extrasolar research vessel, she and her fellow crewmates sleep between worlds and wake up each time with different features. Her experience is one of fluid body and stable mind and of a unique perspective on the passage of time. Back on Earth, society changes dramatically from decade to decade, as it always does.
By Richard on 26-02-20
The Calculating Stars
A Lady Astronaut Novel
By: Mary Robinette Kowal
Narrated by: Mary Robinette Kowal
On a cold spring night in 1952, a huge meteorite fell to earth and obliterated much of the East Coast of the US, including Washington, DC. The ensuing climate cataclysm will soon render the Earth inhospitable for humanity, as the last such meteorite did for the dinosaurs. This looming threat calls for a radically accelerated effort to colonize space and requires a much-larger share of humanity to take part in the process. Elma York's drive to become the first lady astronaut is so strong that even the most dearly held conventions of society may not stand a chance against her.
Interesting idea shame about the execution
By Sah on 27-02-20
The Collapsing Empire
The Interdependency, Book 1
Narrated by: Wil Wheaton
Our universe is ruled by physics, and faster-than-light travel is not possible - until the discovery of The Flow, an extradimensional field we can access at certain points in space-time that transports us to other worlds, around other stars. Humanity flows away from Earth, into space, and in time forgets our home world and creates a new empire, the Interdependency, whose ethos requires that no one human outpost can survive without the others. It's a hedge against interstellar war - and a system of control for the rulers of the empire.
By Sal on 14-04-17
A power-driven young woman has just one chance to secure the status she craves and regain priceless lost artefacts prized by her people. She must free their thief from a prison planet from which no one has ever returned. Ingray and her charge will return to their home world to find their planet in political turmoil, at the heart of an escalating interstellar conflict. Together they must make a new plan to salvage Ingray's future, her family and her world before they are lost to her for good.
A bit of a letdown after Ancillary series
By Dennis on 24-11-17
The Quantum Magician
By: Derek Kunsken
Narrated by: T. Ryder Smith
Belisarius is a quantum man, an engineered Homo quantus who fled the powerful insight of dangerously addictive quantum senses. He found a precarious balance as a con man, but when a client offers him untold wealth to move a squadron of warships across an enemy wormhole, he must embrace his birthright to even try. In fact, the job is so big that he'll need a crew built from all the new sub-branches of humanity. If he succeeds, he might trigger an interstellar war, but success might also point the way to the next step of Homo quantus evolution.
Excellent story
This Is How You Lose the Time War
By: Amal El-Mohtar, Max Gladstone
Narrated by: Emily Woo Zeller, Cynthia Farrell
Among the ashes of a dying world, an agent of the Commandant finds a letter. It reads: Burn before reading. Thus begins an unlikely correspondence between two rival agents hellbent on securing the best possible future for their warring factions. Now, what began as a taunt, a battlefield boast, grows into something more. Something epic. Something romantic. Something that could change the past and the future. Except the discovery of their bond would mean death for each of them. There's still a war going on, after all. And someone has to win that war. That's how war works. Right?
Totally confusing.
By Laura on 26-10-19
The third thrilling book in the increasingly popular Murderbot Diaries, which began with All Systems Red.
Sci-fi's favorite antisocial AI is back on a mission. The case against the too-big-to-fail GrayCris Corporation is floundering, and more importantly, authorities are beginning to ask more questions about where Dr. Mensah's SecUnit is.
And Murderbot would rather those questions went away. For good.
Martha Wells' Rogue Protocol is the third in the Murderbot Diaries series, starring a humanlike android who keeps getting sucked back into adventure after adventure, though it just wants to be left alone, away from humanity and small talk.
Listen to Rogue Protocol and find out why Hugo Award winner Ann Leckie wrote, "I love Murderbot!"
©2018 Martha Wells (P)2018 Recorded Books
Artificial Condition
A Beautifully Foolish Endeavor
What listeners say about Rogue Protocol
Smudger444
The Story line is good. And its nice to have a Heroic robot. But all of these books are too short. This makes to very expensive listening. i think All these books or individual stories in this series could have made one really good best seller, and these stories would have gelled together so much better.
I love murderbot... My biggest grype is its just too short. So long Renn, till October
Arzo Arsalan
better than the first two books
the audio and the narrative quality was great. The story continued Murderbot journey into discovering what the company is doing. Great moments as the murderbot have evolved as a sec unit. Great follow up, worth the credit. remember the credit is for your entertainment. what entertainment makes you feel is priceless. enjoy.
3 books that should be one book.
Entertaining and well written but bad value for money. All 3 books should be sold as one. I get the feeling I'm being taken for a ride. Better value to be had elsewhere.
A bit over descriptive
which means at book 3 I've had enough for now. Good book though and prob a good film
Murderbot diaries just keep getting better
Great writing, great 'voice acting' and great characterization! Such a clever concept as well. Number 5 to listen to now!
a gradual decline
Book 1 was a real find, a great story, short and furious, book two was a small twist but more of the same, book 3 was derivative.
G. P. Brown
Another Fantastic Murderbot Adventure!
This was another fun instalment of Martha Wells The Murderbot Diaries novella series. I'm a big fan of Well's capitalist future gone awry sci-fi world and of her memorable and fantastic lead character, the security unit, Murderbot! Our favourite grumpy, socially anxious, security bot is the story's only POV character and that really works as Murderbot is a truly unique character with an engaging voice. Well's gets to inject a ton of humour into the story via Murderbot's wry observations on the things and people it encounters. Wells's has an engaging writing style which makes these tiny novellas seem even shorter as I was addicted to this one enough that I finished it in one sitting! The story in this third instalment just picked up where it left off at the end of the last novella. Murderbot was on the go again still seeking information about why people tried to kill its humans in the first novella. This resulted in us getting to meet a new team of humans and two new types of bots! It was not Murderbot's most exciting adventure but it had its moments and was enjoyable enough. I missed ART in this instalment but we got a fantastic replacement in the form of Mickey. Mickey was totally different from Art but just as much a star secondary character. Roll on book 4! Audio Note: Kevin.R.Free did a decent job with the audio without being anything outstanding.
Great, but...
This series continues to be great. However, I can't help but feel miffed at the packaging strategy of putting for seperate novellas into $10 separate books. I'd have rather spent 25 on a nice collected hard cover. It's a minor quibble and not a complaint against the author. I'll definitely buy the 4th one, I just hate that I've spent 40 dollars on a series that is the collective size of novel.
Jeff Koeppen
My least favorite so far
I thought Rogue Protocol was OK. It was my least favorite installment of The Murderbot Diaries series. What I liked about the first two novellas in the series was the amount of humor and the fact that, despite the Murderbot being designed to kill, after he hacked his systems he was a wiseacre and a hoot to spend time with. There was less humor and overall wackiness in this installment. The story was more of a straight-ahead science fiction action adventure, and I didn't like the story as much as the other two. Also, it seemed that the characters weren't fleshed out as well in this one, with the exception of Miki, a robot. I'm looking forward to the fourth and final chapter in the this series. Hopefully it will end on a high note.
This series needs to be longer
It's just so good. It's original. It's silly and ironically moving for a story about a murderbot but that's the exact point. It's going to be bitter sweet listening to the last one when it's out. Martha!! Try to make this a tv mini series! Thanks for a remarkable story.
cathy kinsey
Short listen, good.
Great book. The three prior books could be combined to reduce the purchase of three books. Separating them all together is just not worth it. Overall, I love reading about an AI that is self aware with a good humor attached. Not to mention all the good characters.
asdfjklcolon
Story so short, doesn't feel like it was worth the credit. book lasted me only a couple days.
wonkyblox
Funny and imaginative
Once again Martha Wells and Kevin R. Free complement one another. Murderbot's "humanity" stands out as he observes and protects the "real" humans. He turns away when he is "going to have an emotion". But yet he seems almost affectionate when speaking about humans he has become attached to and eventually leaves. I can't wait for the 4th part to this series.
Good story gets a little worn
I like the concept but if I had read this book first I doubt I would keep going with the series. Feels fairly predictable and is not nearly as innovative as the first book felt. Still a good telling and interesting concept.
Kathy in CA
Loved It, But . . . .
after reading the other reviews, you know it was too short. Come on, Martha, this just isn't fair. You can do better than less than four hours. You cheat us and the characters, who can't be developed as well as they should be. You know that. Did your publisher tell you to do these quickies? You are lucky they are as good as they are! I do enjoy Murderbot a great deal and have committed to finishing the series no matter what, which is highly unusual for me. It is an easy listen and lots of fun. I don't want to say much about the story for fear of spoilers. If you are new to the Murderbot Diaries series, go back to Book 1 and start there. You WILL have fun!
Murderbot Keeps On Keeping On
This third (and penultimate) entry in Martha Wells's The Murderbot Diaries picks up immediately after the prior episode Artificial Condition, setting Murderbot off a new adventure with a new group of humans and bots while continuing its search for evidence against the evil corporation, GrayCris. Having been binge-listening to The Murderbot Diaries, I have to admit the formulaic structure of these episodes is getting a bit creaky. Both Artificial Condition and Rogue Protocol follow the exact same story beats - Murderbot sneaks aboard a ship, encounters and befriends an artificial intelligence aboard ship, then saves the humans. There's not a lot of room for surprise, and the similar length both of these entries share make these events feel very scheduled, the plot operating like clockwork in accordance to a rigorous three act structure. You could almost time the occurrence of both books' events right down the minute. While the structure of The Murderbot Diaries is by now intimately familiar, Wells does find a few spots to make fresh. The character dynamics and personalities of Rogue Protocol are almost a direct inverse of the prior episode, with Murderbot attempting to hide from the ship's crew before facing its own natural instincts (or perhaps its base SecUnit coding is more accurate) to protect them. We get another view of human-AI interaction, helping to illustrate the diversity among even artificial man-made constructs. Some robots are forced into mortal combat for their owner's entertainment, while others are infantilized and treated more like pets. Actual equality between man and machine, though, is awfully rare and Murderbot at times struggles between its nature as a rogue unit and the expectations placed upon it by humans that view it as nothing more than a standard factory-line killing machine. This societal dimension of the story still has plenty of material left for Wells to explore, and it's been one of the highlights of the series thus far. Kevin R. Free has settled into narrating duties, having found a comfortable style in the prior entry that he carries over to Rogue Protocol. There's perhaps little point in reinventing the wheel, narration-wise, three books into the series, and whether you dug Free's style or not thus far, you'll know exactly what to expect here. For me, it's a bit too gentle and even keel of a reading and the easy-listening nature of it makes my mind susceptible to wandering. Rogue Protocol keeps on keeping on as the series builds towards its finale in book #4. Diving into this one right on the heels of its predecessor, though, makes the story feel a bit too repetitive as Wells eschews any narrative risks in order to deliver a safe story built in the exact same mold as book #2. If you've been enjoying this series so far, Rogue Protocol certainly isn't a deal breaker by any means, but it's not exactly fresh and exciting either.
Lonnie-The GreatNorthernTroll-Moore
I love Murderbot!
Once again, Murderbot is trying to find answers this time to help Dr. Mensah, if he can. But, his plans to lay low and escape notice while doing so, ends the moment that human lives are endangered... As the title indicates this is part 3 and it's part of an overall story ARC which will culminate in a final book... and I for one can hardly wait! In this and the last story Artificial Condition, our SecUnit (Murderbot) met a very special bot each different, and each having a very profound impact on Murderbot as he ponders "the sentient condition". Turning this kinda into coming of age story... Kevin R Free gives a great performance as my favorite A.I. So go ahead and add these 3 novellas to your library before the 4th book, Exit Strategy comes out! PS. Good news. Book4 is scheduled for released in October, 2018!


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Access Networks is the premier enterprise-grade networking solutions provider for the modern home. Their sophisticated network solutions are based on a simple premise: keeping you connected. Access Networks custom tailors solutions specifically for professional integrators utilizing the finest components from the most respected networking companies and IT solutions providers in the world.
Anthem's pre-amps, amplifiers and audio/video receivers give you the most advanced tools available to easily connect, control, optimize and power all of your entertainment systems. Backed by over 20 years of home-grown, hands-on design and innovative audio engineering experience, Anthem products provide an unprecedented level of reliability and functionality; they deliver one of the industry's highest performance-to-value equations. This is just one reason why Anthem electronics are the choice of knowledgeable audiophiles, professional musicians and engineers the world over.
Since 1980, Audioquest has been helping people connect with technology. Offering a wide range of products, Audioquest remains the largest cable supplier to the high-end specialty market. To achieve the highest levels of clarity and purity, Audioquest creates cables that are not only truthful to the original signal, but also boast cutting-edge design.
AC Infinity Inc. is an American technology company focused on innovation in air movement and thermal management. The company was founded by acoustic engineers who strongly believe in working closely with customers to develop great products. Dependable service and a commitment to product quality are the foundations of the business's values.
Barco offers projection technology for a wide variety of markets. Designed for professional projection in small, medium, and large venues. Available in various configurations, these compact and flexible lamp and laser projectors offer a wide choice in resolutions, lenses and color wheels for any type of fixed installation application.
BDI helps reimagine the modern home and office with furniture that performs as well as it looks. Merging stunning design and innovative engineering, BDI products have featured innovations such as hidden wheels, adjustable shelves, cable management, and flow-through ventilation. The company is committed to its pursuit of function, innovation, and style.
From home use to automotive applications, Bowers & Wilkins is committed to the pursuit of the best-possible sound. A high-end audio specialist firm, Bowers & Wilkins channels the best-available technology to create world-class headphones, wireless speakers, theatre solutions, and more. Its innovative use of materials offers new solutions to complex engineering challenges.
For more than 35 years, Chief has been providing commercial AV solutions for professional installers around the globe. Chief develops state-of-the-art mounts and racks that complement supported technology, ensuring ease-of-use and dependability. The company is committed to improving the environment through recycling, process modification, and re-engineering.
CinemaTech is the industry leader in theater design, seating, and acoustic treatment. The company's home theaters are anything but ordinary, intertwining performance and beauty to offer a life-enhancing experience. A CinemaTech theater is not just another room in your home—it can transport you wherever you want to be.
Since building its first amplifier in 1980, Classé has been a trailblazer in the field of high-performance music and theater components. The company remains at the forefront of contemporary high-end audio design thanks to its focus on listening, investment, and technology. All Classé components are designed to engage, involve, and last a lifetime.
A leading provider of high-quality commercial and residential projection solutions, Da-Lite remains an innovator in technology, design, and sustainability. Its projection surfaces, screens, and accessories are engineered to offer expert clarity, rich contrast, and vivid color. At its Design Center, engineers will turn your idea for a dream system into a working blueprint—and reality.
Elite Screens is a California-based projection-screen manufacturer with satellite offices located around the world. In addition to various top-of-the-line projection-screen solutions, its product categories include mounts and brackets, remotes and controls, and in-ceiling kits, among others. Quality Elite Screens products are your window to the world.
An industry leader in the printer, professional imaging, systems devices, projector, and factory automation categories, Epson boasts decades of innovation experience. In addition to developing award-winning technology, Epson's mission is to exceed customer expectations while building long-lasting relationships with its accounts, co-workers, and end-users.
Extron manufactures products used to integrate computers, video, and audio into presentation displays, bringing easy-to-use technology into today's boardrooms, training centers, and lecture halls. From computer-video interfaces and configurable control-systems, to distribution amplifiers and high-resolution cables, Extron has it covered.
A producer of high-end seating and a respected name in the rapidly expanding custom-electronics market, Fortress Seating can trace its history all the way back to the 1930s. The company produces high-end furnishings for use in home theaters, executive offices, lounges, and healthcare facilities—helping to add class and comfort to any space.
A trusted name since 1974, Furman manufactures products in three major categories: Professional audio- and video-signal processors, AC power conditioning and distribution products, and energy-management solutions. Furman is proud to provide products that allow customers to reduce energy waste and minimize their carbon footprint.
At Leon, we mix art with audio and design with technology. We're a group of artists, designers, engineers, and craftsmen who are dedicated to producing the finest quality benchmade American audio. For almost 20 years, we've been meticulously handcrafting a full palette of custom speakers, sound sculptures, and audiovisual treatments, all designed and manufactured in the US.
Since 1969, Integra has remained at the forefront of technological innovation and advancement in audio and video performance. Integra's audio components are made with high-end build quality in mind, delivering a flawless audio experience for AV experts and home-theater aficionados. From receivers and amplifiers, to sound bars and DVD players, Integra is the right choice.
Beginning in 2004 iPort crafted products that enabled the integration of Apple products with the technology in your life. Over the years iPort invented the world's first in-wall dock for iPod, the world's first in-wall mount for iPad and iPod touch, and LaunchPort – the world's first and only inductive charging system for iPad.
An offshoot of the storied JBL brand, JBL Synthesis brings high-end audio equipment into the homes of discerning listeners. Its built-in systems offer a comprehensive sound experience, and its robust lineup of products also includes bookshelf speakers, equalizers, retro monitors, subwoofers, surround-sound preamplifiers, and more.
Great audio is not only JL Audio's mission, it's also its passion. The company delivers unique engineering and superior audio performance with products for homes, cars, boats and more. JL Audio is proud to employ audiophiles that range from former audio retailers and recording engineers, to installers and IASCA World Champions.
Kaleidescape offers a truly theatrical experience, to be enjoyed from the comfort of one's home. Whether it's a disc or a high-quality digital download, Kaleidescape brings together thousands of movies in a beautifully simple format. Experience stunning quality, amazing performance, and early online viewing with Kaleidescape.
A 2014 Grammy Award® winner and an industry leader in the music-recording field for more than 40 years, Lexicon is committed to revolutionizing the art and science of recording. Lexicon remains the gold standard for digital audio, and has helped create 80% of the world's recorded music.
For nearly 50 years, Lutron has continued to design innovative lighting-systems and control devices that improve homes and businesses by saving energy, enhancing comfort and convenience, improving safety and security, and enhancing productivity. The company has pushed lighting technology forward with must-have products for magnetic low-voltage, halogen, incandescent, fluorescent, and LED applications.
Luxul is the leading innovator of simple-to-deploy professional grade IP networking solutions for use by custom installation professionals. Designed for use in both residential and commercial environments, the Luxul family offers a complete line of solutions that simplify network design and deployment—resulting in a scalable network that is both powerful and easy to install.
Mark Levinson has been pushing the limitations of audio quality since 1972. Today, the company remains dedicated to releasing the best-sounding, longest-lasting, and most-intuitive audio-video components on the market. In its pursuit of audio purity, Mark Levinson spares no expense sourcing the best materials for its products.
Since 1979, Middle Atlantic Products has engineered exceptional support, protection, and mounting products for AV systems. The company offers technology with built-in cable management, thermal protection, and pre-installed hardware. The goal is to provide a seamless, easy-to-install mounting system that simplifies the job and is built to last.
The Niles line of more than 500 individual products includes all the essential tools of the trade, a comprehensive array of devices for every aspect of whole–house distribution and integration of audio/video systems – speakers, receivers, amplifiers, automation devices, controls, and accessories.
Panamax has been designing unparalleled electronic-control, -protection, and -filtration products for more than 30 years. The company's unique approach to tackling the worldwide problem of power disturbances has garnered it industry awards and consumer loyalty. Its warranty-backed products include in-wall multimedia protection, floor models, battery backup, and more.
Planar's commitment to high quality, leading-edge display technology is unparalleled. With innovations in video walls, large format displays, and touch interactivity, Planar offers the best visualization solutions for a variety of demanding vertical markets around the globe. Whether it's mission-critical applications, immersive customer experiences, or connecting with information in new ways, Planar brings visual experiences to life. We are proud to be your source for premium display products and solutions.
Delivering playback solutions for the most avid of audiophiles, Pro-Ject Audio Systems prides itself on analog technology and in the further refinement of its various playback devices. Pro-Ject has global appeal and is the recipient of international awards and acclaim. Their turntables, tonearms and analog products are fairly priced and coveted by those who are passionate about audio quality.
A respected name in the field of loudspeakers, Revel is proud to set the standard for acoustical accuracy. Each Revel product is a result of thousands of hours of work, as well as obsessive testing and re-testing that ensures it produces music with utmost purity. From floor-standing speakers to subwoofers, Revel offers unmatched quality.
For more than 50 years, Rotel has tirelessly pursued exceptional sound. A high-performance manufacturer of products for hi-fi and home theater, Rotel's line includes receivers, preamplifiers, surround-sound processors, power amplifiers, CD players, tuners, and multi-zone electronics. Thanks to careful component selection and meticulous circuit design, Rotel products are able to offer great value.
Ruckus delivers a simply better wireless experience that makes everyday life and business better across the globe. Ruckus Smart Wi-Fi technology redefines what's possible in wireless network performance with flexibility, reliability and affordability. The Ruckus team is working daily to bring to life a new set of capabilities, technologies and products that will transform the networking experience.
The leading name in the home-theater industry, Runco offers technologically-advanced displays, refined craftsmanship, and luxurious design. Runco products are hand-built in the USA to each customer's exact home-theater specifications, and undergo a multi-dozen-point inspection. Build a magical sanctuary inside the home with Runco.
For more than 70 years, Samsung's dedication to making a better world has made it one of the most recognized brands in the industry. Today, Samsung Electronics leads the global market in high-tech electronics, while the company's diverse businesses also span construction, medicine, chemical science, fashion, finance, and more.
Sanus remains an envelope-pushing company in the field of audio and video mounts, stands, racks and other tech furniture—designing its products with the latest technological advances in mind. The company offers everything needed for home entertainment centers, including accessories such as cables, surge protectors, screen-care items, and more.
Savant gives homeowners control of their entertainment, climate, security, and lighting with a single app. A space that's customized to your family's needs is just within reach, thanks to a responsive operating system that can coordinate thermostats and window shades, adjust lighting schemes, lock doors, and mix music.
From its humble garage-workshop origins to its award-winning efforts, Séura has always had its sights set on innovation. The company manufactures products that bridge the gap between technology and décor, designing everything from waterproof TVs and lighted mirrors, to vanishing TV mirrors and outdoor displays. Upgrade your bathroom, kitchen, backyard or any living space with a Séura design.
Sonance has continued to invent, lead, and reinvent with a range of state-of-the-art products that deliver the perfect balance of performance and design. From the "Degrees of Invisibility" of its in-wall and in-ceiling speakers, to the cutting-edge outdoor audio systems, commercial solutions and electronics, Sonance is committed to building products that deliver best-in-class performance and aesthetics combined with the most versatile and flexible installation processes available.
Since its inception in 2002, Sonos has followed a simple vision: to reinvent home audio for the digital age. By developing cutting-edge speakers, software, and home-theater components, Sonos sets out to fill homes all over the world with music. Change the way you listen to music with Sonos.
Sony takes the home entertainment experience to an entirely new level with their premium line of ES Receivers, ES Home Theater projectors, XBR Televisions and 4K UltraHD Blu-ray Players. They all work together beautifully to give you an integrated experience as captivating as the entertainment itself..
An award-winning projection-screen manufacturer, Stewart Filmscreen remains the most-recognized name in the industry. From the Academy Awards® to your home theater, Stewart Filmscreen creates projection screens with the highest-quality visual impact. Thanks to its own manufacturing facility, the company offers solutions for every environment.
From speakers to phono cartridges, Sumiko's high-end products have exhibited the company's collective passion for making the best sound possible in music and film formats. Sumiko offers unparalleled support for its brand offerings, which include Audio research, Sonus Faber, and Pro-Ject. Bring the best-looking designs to your home with Sumiko.
Specifically built for outdoor environments, SunBriteTV products are perfect for homeowners looking to entertain, rain or shine. The company time-tests its USA-built products, ensuring they have true all-weather capabilities. Whether you're looking for LED-LCD TVs or digital signage, rest assured SunBriteTV products are safeguarded against rain, dirt, heat, insects, and UV rays.
An iconic brand, Sunfire is committed to continually raising the benchmark for the home-audio industry. Offering a wide range of amplifiers, speakers, subwoofers, and accessories, Sunfire is responsible for the high-power subwoofer designs that have become commonplace today. Experience home-audio products that will move you with Sunfire.
TRUFIG's philosophy relies on the principles of material authenticity, perfection in the smallest detail, and a systematic approach to design. From the selection of the materials, to the precise craftsmanship of each individual element, to the consistency of color and texture, everything we do revolves around an understanding of architecture, detail, and precision.
Boasting more than 100 million customers in just the past decade, URC has spent the past 25 years setting the bar for control technology. Thanks to continuous research and development, URC has remained the leading supplier of quality remotes for consumers, subscription-broadcast providers, retailers, custom-installation professionals, and OEM partners.
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YouTube's "How Fighters Eat Their Food" video spoofs "How Animals Eat Their Food".
A recent YouTube video showing how animals eat their food has gone viral, spawning some clever parodies, including "How Animals Eat Their Food (Pokemon Version)". The Pokemon version has a guy with long hair pulling parlor tricks to show how various Pokemon like Charmander and Blastoise might eat. The premise is so ridiculous it's hilarious.
The video on how Street Fighter characters eat their food begins with two Orientals eating at a table with brown trimmed white walls, bottles of something yellow waiting as a beverage. One of them has a mustache and glasses, while the other wears what appear to be biking or combat gloves.
The camera pulls a closeup of the guy with the gloves as he says, "You wanna see how animals eat their food?" The other guy just keeps eating.
He stands up quickly, knocking the legs out from under his side of the table, and then throws his fists into his food, yelling, "Hadouken! Hadouken!" Then he grabs a leaf of lettuce and munches on it.
He sits down again, grabs a piece of food, and then stands up with his arms straight out to his sides, fists clenched, spins a few times, and then falls, like Zangief from Street Fighter.
Next he falls backward, kicking his feet up through the table before grabbing something and munching down. Then he waves his fists from his sides, crossing them in front of him like Guile from Street Fighter.
The rest of the video is above.
What do you think of the YouTube spoof "How Fighters Eat Their Food" featuring Street Fighter moves?


text:
namespace {

dependency_graph::InAttr<possumwood::opencv::Sequence> a_sequence;
dependency_graph::InAttr<possumwood::opencv::ExifSequence> a_exifSequence;
dependency_graph::InAttr<float> a_lambda;
dependency_graph::InAttr<bool> a_random;
dependency_graph::InAttr<unsigned> a_samples;
dependency_graph::OutAttr<possumwood::opencv::CameraResponse> a_response;

dependency_graph::State compute(dependency_graph::Values& data) {
	cv::Ptr<cv::CalibrateDebevec> calibrate = cv::createCalibrateDebevec();

	calibrate->setLambda(data.get(a_lambda));
	calibrate->setRandom(data.get(a_random));
	calibrate->setSamples(data.get(a_samples));

	// collect input frames - doesn't copy, just uses shared references
	std::vector<cv::Mat> inputs;
	for(auto& in : data.get(a_sequence))
		inputs.push_back(in.second);

	// build an array of exposures from exif
	std::vector<float> exposures;
	for(auto& e : data.get(a_exifSequence))
		if(e.valid())
			exposures.push_back(e.exposure() * e.iso() / 100.0f);

	// std::cout << "Exposures:";
	// for(auto& e : data.get(a_exifSequence))
	// 	std::cout << "  " << e.exposure();
	// std::cout << std::endl;

	// std::cout << "F-numbers:";
	// for(auto& e : data.get(a_exifSequence))
	// 	std::cout << "  " << e.f();
	// std::cout << std::endl;

	// std::cout << "ISOs:";
	// for(auto& e : data.get(a_exifSequence))
	// 	std::cout << "  " << e.iso();
	// std::cout << std::endl;

	// std::cout << "Normalized exposures:";
	// for(auto& e : exposures)
	// 	std::cout << "  " << e;
	// std::cout << std::endl;

	cv::Mat mat;

	if(inputs.size() != exposures.size())
		throw std::runtime_error("Inputs and exif data counts need to match!");

	if(!inputs.empty() && !exposures.empty())
		calibrate->process(inputs, mat, exposures);

	data.set(a_response, possumwood::opencv::CameraResponse(mat, exposures));

	return dependency_graph::State();
}

void init(possumwood::Metadata& meta) {
	cv::Ptr<cv::CalibrateDebevec> dummy = cv::createCalibrateDebevec();

	meta.addAttribute(a_sequence, "image_sequence", possumwood::opencv::Sequence());
	meta.addAttribute(a_exifSequence, "exif_sequence", possumwood::opencv::ExifSequence());
	meta.addAttribute(a_lambda, "lambda", dummy->getLambda());
	meta.addAttribute(a_random, "random", dummy->getRandom());
	meta.addAttribute(a_samples, "samples", (unsigned)dummy->getSamples());
	meta.addAttribute(a_response, "camera_response", possumwood::opencv::CameraResponse());

	meta.addInfluence(a_sequence, a_response);
	meta.addInfluence(a_exifSequence, a_response);
	meta.addInfluence(a_lambda, a_response);
	meta.addInfluence(a_random, a_response);
	meta.addInfluence(a_samples, a_response);

	meta.setCompute(compute);
}

possumwood::NodeImplementation s_impl("opencv/hdr/calibrate_debevec", init);

}  // namespace


Meet Sugar Plum Fairies a GORGEOUS purple! I mean just look at this, so rich and holo-y! Velvet comes to mind for some reason and I love it so so much. Ya know like like a holiday dress or something. Ahhh, I am just loving this purple. Look at the dept of it.
It was a two super easy coats and dried really nicely and pretty quick. Its does dry with a bit of a dull finish like a lot do. To me that doesn't matter at all because I always put on a top coat. :) Shiny or matte depending on the art situation.
Sugar Plum Fairies is like the perfect name too! :) I mean it can't really have a better name right!?
Here you really can see all of the great goodies hidden in the polish. :) Its such a fun and unique polish for sure. I think this will be a repeat polish that I will have to wear again this season before its odd to wear Christmas colors. Although, there is no red and green in this so I am thinking I could almost wear this all year. :) Ooo, Easter?
Sorry about the above photo. it kept going weird and only focusing on part of it. Maybe the camera was just too overwhelmed with beautiful-ness. Hummm, is that a word? Oh well, who cares! :) We can just make it one right!
You do this type of art in stages which makes it look weird to start but then all of the sudden it comes together. That is probably one of my fave parts because its like a mini celebration when it works out like you had hoped.
Well thats it for today. Two more are coming tomorrow and I am so excited to share more of these with you. I hope you have enjoyed this post and hopefully love these polishes as much as I do. For all things Pretty Beautiful check out all of the links below! These release on November 12th at 11am CT. :) Ya'll won't want to miss this.