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French and Australian authorities are investigating TikTok and social media platforms over concerns about their impact on youth mental health and safety. France's parliament recommends banning social media for under 15s and imposing curfews, while Australia plans to ban stalking and deepfake apps, reflecting growing regulatory efforts worldwide.
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Canadian-born author David Szalay has won the Booker Prize for his novel 'Flesh,' which explores themes of class, migration, and masculinity through the life of a struggling immigrant in London. The award was announced in London, with Szalay beating five other finalists from diverse backgrounds. The novel was praised for its spare prose and innovative use of white space, and the win boosts Szalay's profile and book sales.
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Salman Rushdie received a peace literature award in Ohio, honoring his work promoting peace through writing. The 78-year-old author, known for 'The Satanic Verses,' was attacked in 2022 and blinded in one eye. The award recognizes his efforts to foster understanding amid ongoing conflicts worldwide.
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Margaret Atwood, the acclaimed author of 'The Handmaid's Tale,' has published a 600-page memoir titled 'Book of Lives.' The book explores her personal journey from childhood in Canada to international literary fame, reflecting on her inspirations, relationships, and the reasons behind her writing. The memoir also touches on her thoughts about mortality and her long career.
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A coalition of over 200 cultural figures, including actors, musicians, and writers, have signed an open letter urging the UN and governments to free Palestinian leader Marwan Barghouti, who is in Israeli custody since 2002. Barghouti, convicted of involvement in attacks during the Second Intifada, faces allegations of abuse and inhumane treatment in prison. The campaign highlights his political significance and ongoing detention amid tensions over Gaza.