The United States has deployed 100 troops to Israel along with a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery to strengthen defenses against potential Iranian missile attacks. This move indicates Washington D.C.'s readiness to risk additional American personnel in response to escalating tensions following Iran's attack on October 1. The deployment underscores the strategic military and diplomatic considerations in the region.

Expert palaeontologist Darren Naish addresses fundamental questions about the theory of evolution through 200 mini-essays, covering topics from Charles Darwin's theories to modern research on consciousness and artificial life. The book, 'Evolution in Minutes,' provides a concise yet comprehensive overview of the history, politics, and concepts of evolution, illustrated with 200 images and diagrams.

Tim Marshall's 'Prisoners of Geography' explores how geography influences global politics, focusing on ten regions including Russia, China, and the United States. The book argues that geographical features shape geopolitical strategies and historical events. While praised for its engaging narrative and historical grounding, it is critiqued for oversimplifying complex issues by focusing predominantly on geography. The book is relevant to contemporary issues like the Russia-Ukraine conflict and China's Belt and Road Initiative, illustrating how geography continues to impact global power dynamics.

Tim Marshall's new book, 'The Power of Geography,' explores ten regions poised to shape global politics amid great-power rivalry. The regions include Australia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, the UK, Greece, Turkey, the Sahel, Ethiopia, Spain, and Space. Marshall examines the geopolitical implications of these areas, such as Europe's impending refugee crisis from the Sahel and the volatile nature of the eastern Mediterranean. Delivered with Marshall's trademark wit and insight, the book is a compelling exploration of geography's influence on humanity's past, present, and future.

The article discusses an attempted visit to the Kings Low site, highlighting issues with access and the historical significance of the Bronze Age burial mounds near Stafford. It mentions the damage to the mounds and a stone cross over the years, and the extensive excavation work led by Prof Gary Lock of Oxford University and the Stoke on Trent Museum Archaeological Society. A comprehensive report on the excavation has been published by Archaeopress, with a book launch event featuring talks by the co-authors at the Potteries Museum.

The 1978 NHRA World Cup Finals at Ontario Motor Speedway featured intense competition and record runs, with Robbie Bruins and Raymond Beadle emerging as upset winners in their respective categories. Despite the early determination of NHRA's professional points champions, the event was filled with excitement and surprises. Pro Stock Eliminator was won by Bob Glidden in his Ford Fairmont, which retired undefeated. The event also determined the 'little guy' world champs and showcased impressive performances across various categories. NHRA's annual event concluded the long championship series, with anticipation for the next season beginning with the NHRA Winternationals at Pomona Raceway.

Tim Marshall's 'The Future of Geography' explores the new space race and its implications for global politics, focusing on the power struggle between the US, China, and Russia. The book delves into how space exploration will shape human history, drawing on extensive research and insights from various institutions. It highlights the competitive spirit driving nations to venture into space and predicts significant changes in global power dynamics over the next fifty years.

Historian Tom Holland discusses the need for Muslims to confront the ideology of Isis, emphasizing that the group's violent actions are rooted in their interpretations of the Koran. He critiques both Western leaders and Isis for claiming a singular true form of Islam. Holland's documentary, 'Isis; Origins of Violence,' has sparked both praise and criticism, though the reaction was less severe compared to his previous work. He argues against the notion of a 'Reformation' for Islam, suggesting instead that Islam has already been significantly influenced by Western ideas over the past 200 years. The article also touches on the broader clash within the Muslim community between those who believe in superiority over non-Muslims and those who do not.

Cinelab, led by MD Adrian Bull, emphasizes the enduring relevance of film in the moving image industry, countering the belief that film is obsolete. Despite the rise of digital media, film remains crucial, especially for big-budget movies and high-end TV. Bull highlighted a resurgence in shooting on film and its advantages in data storage. A tour of Cinelab showcased its blend of advanced technology and skilled craftsmanship, reinforcing the demand for the unique look and feel of film.

The newsletter from Reader's Block discusses a shift to a monthly format and provides book recommendations across various genres. 'Vigil Harbor' by Julia Glass is a literary fiction set in a dystopian future with environmental challenges. 'Circe' by Madeline Miller is a retelling of a Greek myth. 'The Power of Geography' by Tim Marshall explores geopolitics through ten maps. 'Bone Deep' by Charles Bosworth Jr. and Joel J. Schwartz delves into a true crime case with legal complexities. 'Squirrel Hill' by Mark Oppenheimer recounts the aftermath of the Tree of Life Synagogue shooting in Pittsburgh.