Spectator Out Loud: John Power, Nick Carter, Elisabeth Dampier, Maggie Fergusson & Mark Mason

"Aku-Aku: The Secret of Easter Island" documents Thor Heyerdahl's expedition to Easter Island in 1955-1956, exploring the island's mysterious history and monumental statues. Heyerdahl and his team sought to uncover the secrets behind the construction and transportation of the Moai statues, as well as the cultural practices of the island's inhabitants. The book details the archaeological findings, local testimonies, and Heyerdahl's theories about the island's past, including the idea that the statues were moved using a system of levers and ropes. Heyerdahl's narrative combines adventure, scientific inquiry, and cultural exploration, offering readers a glimpse into the enigmas of Easter Island. The book contributes to the understanding of Polynesian migration and the engineering feats of ancient civilizations.

"The Sorrows of Young Werther" is an epistolary novel that delves into the emotional turmoil and ultimately tragic fate of its protagonist, Werther. Goethe's novel captures the intensity of romantic passion, exploring themes of unrequited love, alienation, and the individual's struggle against societal constraints. Werther's infatuation with Charlotte, a woman engaged to another, drives him to despair and eventual suicide. The novel's impact on European literature and culture was profound, sparking a wave of "Werther fever" and solidifying Goethe's place as a literary icon. Through Werther's letters, Goethe crafts a powerful exploration of the human psyche and the destructive nature of unattainable desire.

This book offers an intimate look at Johnny Cash's life, drawing from family archives and personal conversations. It explores his values, creativity, and the impact of his music on his family and the world.