# Engaging Reads of the Week: My Highlights and Insights
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Chapter 1: Highlights of the Week
This week, I focused on a few standout reads that truly captured my attention. As someone who reads slowly and has ADHD, it's essential that the material I engage with is intriguing.
The first notable piece is "The Direction of Clocks" by Jess Levine. This queer sci-fi narrative explores a poignant connection between two women, defying the constraints of time. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I found this story particularly refreshing and relatable. I stumbled upon it through a random selection feature on the Clarkesworld website.
Clarkesworld Magazine - Science Fiction & Fantasy
7710 words, novelette. Before humanity had even begun to conceptualize stellar travel, we devised innovative ways...
clarkesworldmagazine.com
I owe a debt of gratitude to Logan Silkwood for inspiring me with a writing prompt. After a challenging day, this prompt reignited my creativity and led me to reflect on my experiences as a craft beer tour guide during the HB2 era.
Writing Prompt: There’s More to Transgender People than Just Transitioning
We’re multidimensional individuals. Let’s showcase this to the world!
Section 1.1: Current Events and Insights
Like many, I’ve been inundated with updates regarding the Russian invasion of Ukraine. A recent article caught my attention, discussing the use of traditional wiretapping techniques to monitor Russian military activities and potential attacks. This process utilizes AI to transcribe communications in real-time, offering a glimpse into how future warfare may operate.
As Russia Plans Its Next Move, an AI Listens to the Chatter
A radio transmission between several Russian soldiers in Ukraine during early March, captured from an unencrypted channel...
www.wired.com
After diving deep into cryptocurrency, I found myself feeling quite skeptical. For a currency that claims to be accessible to everyone, it appears dominated by affluent hedge fund participants. However, I became intrigued by the concept of game theory. From cryptocurrency to social media, the gamification of experiences plays a significant role. Consider how the TikTok algorithm operates similarly to a casino slot machine, keeping users eagerly anticipating the next video while rewarding the platform with our likes and shares.
Game Theory
Game theory, as understood by economists, social scientists, and biologists, was first broadly conceptualized...
plato.stanford.edu
Section 1.2: More Compelling Reads
Upon clicking the random selection feature on Clarkesworld Magazine again, I discovered "Martian Heart" by John Barnes. Although I haven't finished it yet, this tale also revolves around love set against challenging circumstances. The author masterfully depicts the Martian landscape, making it feel convincingly real, and it’s quickly becoming a slow-burn favorite.
Clarkesworld Magazine - Science Fiction & Fantasy
6640 words, short story, REPRINT. Okay, botterogator, I agreed to this. Now you're supposed to guide me to tell my story...
clarkesworldmagazine.com
I recently read a memoir that I couldn't put down. Hough's conversational writing style makes it feel as if you're sitting around a campfire with an old friend, sharing stories over drinks. From cult experiences to the Air Force and vibrant encounters at gay bars, Hough’s essays beautifully encapsulate the essence of being queer in America, which is simply being American in America.
LEAVING ISN'T THE HARDEST THING | Kirkus Reviews
The authors have created an unconventional compendium exploring the dynamics of power...
www.kirkusreviews.com
Chapter 2: Writing Challenges and Creative Insights
This is a delightful challenge for writers, particularly those who enjoy sci-fi. Wired holds a monthly competition for six-word stories based on a prompt. The need for creativity in such brevity results in some incredibly compelling submissions! Check out the new stories each month for a thrilling journey down the rabbit hole.
Six-Word Sci-Fi: Stories Written by You
In six words, craft a narrative about a futuristic meal gone awry. Honorable Mentions: Disclaimer: All #WiredSixWord...
www.wired.com
I also came across a captivating longform piece that examines how womanhood is portrayed in Disney films. The author’s passion for Disney shines through, yet they also provide an insightful critique, which I found incredibly engaging.
Deconstructing Disney: Motherhood and the Taming of Maleficent
How do you subdue a witch? Historically, the answer is to eliminate her. In stories, the witch often embodies...
longreads.com
The first video, "What I Read This Week! ♀️," offers insights into my recent literary discoveries and reflections.
The second video, "My Cats Choose What I Read for a Week: A Reading Vlog!" showcases a fun and unique approach to selecting reading material.