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This section lists all blog posts, regardless of topic.
Book review: The Kite Runner
September 25, 2006
I started reading The Kite Runner not knowing what I was getting myself into. All I knew from the outset was that it involved two childhood friends growing up in Afghanistan -- and kite flying. (This is becoming a bit of a theme for me: Picking up books that look cute and being startled by the actual subject matter)
This novel was very well worth the read. The story is moving; desperately sad, but rich. The main character, Amir, is strangely easy to relate to. He leads the reader on a powerful journey, quickly winning our friendship and ultimately deepening our understanding of the turbulent and upsetting history of Afghanistan.
I am struck by how novels like this open up a persons eyes to the tragedies of our world. Many of us live a well structured North American existence. A secure existence with many freedoms, rights, etc. But on the other side of the wall, not so far away, there has been much suffering.
I looked up the author after I finished the book and couldn't believe that this has been his first novel -- not only that, but he's a physician by practice. Well done!
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Blast off!
September 12, 2006
Graham and I had the pleasure of watching Shuttle Atlantis ride up to space on Saturday morning via NASA TV on the Internet and a phone call between us. A far cry from watching from Florida, but it was still an exciting moment. Eight minutes later, Atlantis floated in space, drifting over Ireland. It was a long, long road waiting for this day! The installation of the P4 truss segment is scheduled for today.
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Light emitting T-shirtsSeptember 7, 2006
Have you ever wondered about what whacky things the T-shirt of the future might do? I had to smile when I watched a video this week demonstrating the illuminating textiles that Phillips is working on. I'm impressed and amused! Videoolder >>
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