Culture news
Prison break in Uzbek jails for inmates who do required reading
Uzbekistan has approved a law that allows prisoners to reduce their jail sentences by up to 30 days per year, by reading several books, included on a special list. But the educative exercise is not an option for all inmates.
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Culture news
Warsaw opens the 'Metroteka' - an innovative library housed in a metro station
On 4 September, the "Metroteka"- the first library in the Warsaw metro - opened at Kondratowicza metro station. Its collection includes more than 16,000 books, a corner for children, and a relaxation area for adults. It will also host various cultural events for the local community.
Culture news
Controversy explained: UK’s LGBTQ+ literary prize 2025 cancelled
This year's Polari Prize has been cancelled due to the longlist inclusion of a book by John Boyne. The situation escalated into a mass boycott and now, the organisation behind the LGBTQ+ literary award has pledged to undertake a full review of its policies. Here's everything you need to know.
Europe News
Bored of your beach read? Dive into these politicians’ steamy novels
From Brussels to Westminster, top European politicians have turned their experiences into steamy novels, mixing romance, scandal, and risqué fantasies. Diplomats, ministers, and MPs reveal a surprising, erotic side behind the political curtain.
Culture news
Remembering MI5’s first female boss and author Dame Stella Rimington
The former head of the British Intelligence service and author Stella Rimington was the first female (and publicly-named) MI5 chief, as well as the inspiration for Dame Judi Dench’s M in the James Bond films. She died aged 90.
Culture news
Spain's king Juan Carlos to publish 'uncompromising' autobiography
Former monarch Juan Carlos I will publish "Reconciliation", his memoirs at the end of the year. The book will explore his controversial private life, his role in Spain's democracy and reflections from his exile in Abu Dhabi. He's now revealing all he says because his 'story' is being stolen.
Culture news
Stephen King puts Trump vs Musk feud into perspective with savage post
The celebrated author adds his name to a long list of celebrities commenting on the very public feud between Donald Trump and Elon Musk. The fallout between the two former allies has also led many online to draw a comparison with one cult 2004 movie...
Culture news
Celebrated Kenyan author and dissident Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o dies aged 87
Widely regarded as east Africa's most influential writer, Ngũgĩ’s fiction and nonfiction books traced his country's history from British imperialism to home-ruled tyranny and challenged not only the stories told but the language used to tell them.