David Rennie, Beijing bureau chief and Chaguan columnist, shares insights on Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen's critical U.S. visit amid escalating tensions with China. He discusses Taiwan's complex international standing and internal political strife. In a different segment, author Chloe Hooper delves into the dark motivations behind the devastating Black Saturday bushfires in Australia, examining the interplay of arson and community impact. They also touch on France's unique book pricing regulations and the challenges local bookstores face in a digital world.
The delicate diplomatic dance that America is performing during Tsai Ing-Wen’s visit hints at the island’s strategic importance. Two of the deadly blazes of Australia’s “Black Saturday” were deliberately set; we ask what makes someone start fires. And, the hunt for a cheap holiday read in France: by law books must be sold at full price, but sellers are finding ways around that.