605: No Such Thing As A Shark With A Ponytail

A Load of Old Balls is a fascinating exploration of the world of sports, presented by James Harkin and Anna Ptaszynski, the brainy researchers for BBC's QI and co-hosts of No Such Thing As A Fish. The book delves into the weird rules, unlikely heroes, and astonishing facts of sports history. It covers a wide range of topics, from ancient Egyptian athletes having their spleens removed to David Attenborough's role in yellow tennis balls. The book is a grand tour of sports, highlighting its most surprising and intriguing aspects.

In 'Bonk: The Curious Coupling of Science and Sex', Mary Roach delves into the complex and often humorous world of sexual science. The book addresses various intriguing questions such as whether one can think themselves to orgasm, why Viagra is less effective for women, and whether a dead man can sustain an erection. Roach combines fascinating anecdotes with scientific insights, discussing historical accounts, social stigmas, and modern research in the field of human sexuality. Her unique approach makes the book both entertaining and educational, challenging conventional notions and encouraging open discussions about sex.

Published in 1942, 'The Stranger' tells the story of Meursault, a Frenchman living in Algiers, who is characterized by his emotional detachment and apathy. The novel begins with Meursault's indifferent reaction to his mother's death and follows his journey through a series of events, including a senseless murder, which leads to his trial and sentencing. Camus uses Meursault's story to illustrate his philosophy of the absurd, highlighting the lack of inherent meaning in life and the importance of accepting and living with this reality. The novel also explores the tensions between French colonialists and native Algerians, reflecting Camus's own experiences and critiques of colonialism.

Published in 1968, 'Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? ' is set in a post-apocalyptic San Francisco after a nuclear war. The story follows Rick Deckard, a bounty hunter tasked with 'retiring' six escaped Nexus-6 androids. The novel delves into profound philosophical questions about the nature of life, empathy, and what defines humanity. It also introduces the concept of Mercerism, a religion that emphasizes empathy and compassion. The book is known for its complex characters, including Deckard's moral dilemmas and the ambiguous line between human and android, which has been a significant influence on science fiction and popular culture, including the film 'Blade Runner'.

Cette édition française de 'Blade Runner' est basée sur le roman 'Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? ' de Philip K. Dick. Elle inclut une traduction de Sébastien Guillot et une postface d'Étienne Barillier, offrant une perspective approfondie sur les thèmes et l'influence du livre. Le roman explore un futur post-apocalyptique où des androïdes presque indiscernables des humains sont traqués par des chasseurs de primes.