Eurabiamania 83: The Second Council of Wizards

The Lord of the Rings, written by J.R. R. Tolkien, is an epic high fantasy novel set in Middle-earth. The story follows Frodo Baggins, a hobbit who inherits the One Ring from his uncle Bilbo. The Ring, forged by Sauron, holds the power to control all other Rings of Power and must be destroyed in the fires of Mount Doom to prevent Sauron's return. Frodo is joined by a fellowship of other characters, including Gandalf the Grey, Samwise Gamgee, Aragorn, Legolas, Gimli, and Boromir, as they embark on a dangerous quest across Middle-earth. The novel explores themes of good vs. evil, the corrupting influence of power, and the struggle between fate and free will.

Elric of Melniboné is a fantasy novel by Michael Moorcock, published in 1972. It introduces Elric, the last emperor of the decadent island kingdom of Melniboné, who wields the cursed sword Stormbringer. The story follows Elric's struggle against his cousin Yyrkoon, who seeks to usurp the throne, and explores themes of morality and power in a world of magic and chaos. The novel is part of the broader Elric saga, which has significantly influenced the fantasy genre.

The Nobility of Failure examines the lives and deaths of nine historical figures from Japan, highlighting their tragic ends and the cultural reverence for such heroes. The book spans from the 4th century to World War II, including figures like Sugawara no Michizane and the kamikaze pilots. Morris explores why these heroes, who often knew they were destined to fail, are celebrated in Japanese culture for their courage and integrity.

In '21 Lessons for the 21st Century', Yuval Noah Harari tackles the most pressing questions of our time. The book explores issues such as the crisis of liberal democracy, the rise of nationalism, the impact of technological advancements, the threat of terrorism, and the challenges posed by climate change and nuclear war. Harari presents these complex contemporary challenges clearly and accessibly, inviting readers to consider values, meaning, and personal engagement in a world filled with noise and uncertainty. He emphasizes the need for critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity in navigating the future and suggests that individuals must identify strongly with a global community to confront global problems effectively.

A Song of Ice and Fire is a series of high fantasy novels that takes place in a fictional world where seasons last for years. The story is set primarily in the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros and follows multiple plotlines, including a civil war for the Iron Throne among several competing families, the threat of the supernatural Others beyond the Wall, and the rise of dragons in the east. The series is known for its complex characters, intricate plots, and detailed world-building, drawing comparisons to J.R. R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings.