Latest news with #Flashlight
Yahoo
10-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Susan Choi Recommends a Book So Engrossing It Made Her (Almost) Lose Her Luggage
"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." Welcome to Shelf Life, books column, in which authors share their most memorable reads. Whether you're on the hunt for a book to console you, move you profoundly, or make you laugh, consider a recommendation from the writers in our series, who, like you (since you're here), love books. Perhaps one of their favorite titles will become one of yours, too. What began as a short story in The New Yorker is now Susan Choi's sixth and latest novel, Flashlight, about a man who goes missing—and the resulting trauma for his family. Like the family in the book, Choi lived in Japan for a short period during her childhood. (Nor is this the first time she's shared autobiographical details with her characters: Her father was a math professor, like a character in 2003's A Person of Interest; she went to graduate school, the setting of 2013's My Education; and she attended a theater program in high school, as do the protagonists in 2019's National Book Award-winning Trust Exercise, for which she wrote at least 3 different endings.) Her second novel, 2004's American Woman, was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize and adapted into a film, and she has also written a children's book, Camp Tiger. Choi teaches in the Writing Seminars at Johns Hopkins University and has received fellowships from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Guggenheim Foundation, yet one literary goal remains elusive: 'Trying to read 50 books a year,' she says. 'I've never achieved the goal and some years I don't even come close, but I love trying.' The Indiana-born, Texas-raised, New York-based bestselling author studied literature at Yale University; was once fired from a literary agency for being too much of a 'literary snob'; was a fact-checker at The New Yorker and co-edited Wonderful Town: New York Stories from The New Yorker with editor David Remnick; won an ASME Award for Fiction for 'The Whale Mother' in Harper's Magazine; and has two sons. Likes: theater; fabric stores; kintsugi; the Fort Greene Park Greenmarket; savory buns; flowers. Dislikes: being on stage; low-hovering helicopters. Good at: rocking her gray hair. Bad at: cleaning menorahs; coming up with book titles. Scroll through the reads she recommends below. It's not exactly a missed-the-train moment, but I was re-reading Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov while waiting on a train platform [once], and when the train pulled in I stood up, still reading, boarded the train, still reading, and sat down, still reading…until at some point, after the train pulled away, I realized that I had left my luggage on the platform. Philip Roth's Everyman. I never would have thought a novel about the bodily decline and eventual death of a hyper-masculine Jewish guy who mistreats many of the women in his life—a lot like Philip Roth—could make me literally heave-sob at the end. But this is why Roth is such an incredible writer: He makes us feel enormous compassion for people we don't even like. Jenny Erpenbeck's Visitation, which kaleidoscopically compresses the stormy history of 20th-century Germany into barely a hundred pages, while holding the focus steady on a single plot of land. It's one of those books that makes you want to write. All of Proust. Or even just some decent amount of Proust. I love the prose but also find it so exquisite it's almost unbearable to continue reading for any length of time, at least for me, which makes me feel like a total failure as a reader. I might have to set aside a year of my life just to read Proust. Sarah Moss's Ghost Wall is impossible to put down, and it's also so tensely coiled from the very beginning that reading it I sometimes forgot to breathe! In some ways it's a 'small' story—about a girl and her parents doing a crazy-seeming reenactment of prehistoric life in the English countryside—but then it turns out to be about the biggest things, like what it means to be a people, or a nation, or even human. Rachel Khong's Real Americans, which I am so riveted by that as soon as I finish these questions, I'm picking it back up. It's a story about three people who, despite how deeply they feel for each other—and how deeply we feel for them—cannot manage to be a family. My heart is already half-broken and I'm only halfway through it. Paul Beatty's The Sellout. I was sitting on the beach in Maui (the one time I have ever been to Maui), reading that book instead of swimming, and a stranger came up to me to ask what it was because apparently I was laughing so hard I'd attracted general attention. In Francisco Goldman's The Ordinary Seaman, two young guerilla fighters, boy and girl, fall madly in love and start having trysts in the back of an ambulance. The girl also has a pet squirrel that she's been carrying around in her bra, and, during the trysts, the squirrel runs frantically around the back of the ambulance. These are some of the funniest, wildest, most heartfelt sex scenes ever put on paper. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. I read it every few years because it feels new every time and, at the same time, it feels so familiar, like returning to a favorite place. I love every single sentence in it, even the sentences that are totally over-the-top (and there are a lot of them!) because they remind me that Fitzgerald was actually a fallible human being, capable of writing very over-the-top sentences sometimes. Sigrid Nunez's A Feather on the Breath of God shocked me the first time I read it because it really felt like the book was looking at me, like it knew exactly who I was. The protagonist has, like me, a real culture-clash background, and up to the point in my life when I read the book—the '90s—I'd never encountered that in fiction, so it was very emotional when I finally did. Home Fire by Kamila Shamsie. Just read it. You'll thank me. Renee Gladman is one of my absolute favorite living writers/artists, yet I was totally unaware of her until maybe six years ago when I was recommended her work by an employee—I am so sorry I don't know his name—at my local indie bookstore. Now it feels unimaginable to me that I ever lived my life without Renee Gladman! Everything by Ali Smith, and Ali Smith herself. She is such a brilliant, compassionate, elating observer of us humans and the strange things we do. The London Library. A friend who's a member showed it to me a few years ago, and I never wanted to leave. Maybe they'll set up a hammock for me! PEN America, because they support freedom of expression, which none of us can take for granted anymore.$14.40 at at at at at at at at at at You Might Also Like The 15 Best Organic And Clean Shampoos For Any And All Hair Types 100 Gifts That Are $50 Or Under (And Look Way More Expensive Than They Actually Are)
Wall Street Journal
05-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Wall Street Journal
Fiction: Susan Choi's ‘Flashlight'
Susan Choi's 'Flashlight' begins with a disappearance. It is 1978 and Serk Kang is taking a nighttime walk with his 10-year-old daughter, Louisa, on the breakwater near his seaside vacation house on Japan's western coast. Soon after, bystanders find Louisa soaking wet and unconscious on the shore. When she wakes she has no clear memory of what happened. There is no trace of her father. Serk, who could not swim, is officially declared dead from drowning, and Louisa is thought to have collapsed from shock and struck her head. But good novels rarely opt for the simple explanation when a complicated one is possible, so 'Flashlight' travels both back and far ahead in time to peel away at the mystery of Serk's fate. That mystery is satisfyingly layered, and Ms. Choi's excavations yield some of their richest material in answering the seemingly basic question: Who is Serk? Born and raised in Japan, Serk grew up believing himself to be a fully Japanese boy named Hiroshi. But when World War II ended, and with it Japanese imperial rule, his parents revealed that they are ethnic Koreans and that his given name is Seok. Lured by propaganda, his family then returned to North Korea, leaving Seok behind, where he was stripped of his citizenship—in 1952 Koreans in Japan were reclassified as resident aliens—and with it his career prospects. He immigrates to the U.S. and takes yet another identity: Serk, an approximate, Anglicized phonetic spelling of Seok, is a made-up name he can no more acclimate to than he can to his life abroad.
Time of India
05-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Pop singer Jessie J reveals early-stage breast cancer diagnosis at 37; is it curable? Here's what experts say
Jessie J, a.k.a. Jessica Ellen Cornish, the 'Flashlight' singer, on Wednesday announced that she has been diagnosed with the earliest stage of breast cancer, where the disease has spread outside of its original location. The 37-year-old UK singer took to her Instagram to announce the news. But is the early stage of breast cancer curable? The singer was diagnosed with cancer just before her latest single release in April. The Grammy-nominated artist shared the information with her fans on her social media, where she also revealed that she will undergo surgery following her performance at Summertime Ball on June 15. This is an annual music festival in Lon, she added. However, talking about the cancer, she said, "Cancer sucks in any form, but I'm holding onto the word 'early." Rise in borderline or early-stage breast cancer cases Breast cancer cases are rapidly increasing across the globe, including in India. Recent projections indicate that the cases will further increase in the coming time. Globally, breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women, with over 2.3 million new cases and 670,000 deaths reported in 2020. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer, there is a significant increase in breast cancer cases, suggesting over 3 million new cases and 1 million deaths will be reported by 2040. Is early breast cancer curable? Breast cancer has five main stages, ranging from Stage 0 to Stage 4. Experts say that breast cancer in its early stages is "highly treatable and survivable," yet Jessie has not shared any other information regarding her diagnosis. But is early breast cancer curable? 'Early-stage breast cancer is often curable with appropriate treatment. Treatment typically involves surgery, such as lumpectomy or mastectomy, often followed by radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or targeted therapy, depending on the cancer's characteristics,' says Dr. Vivek B. K., Additional Director, Medical Oncology, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road. 'Prognosis and treatment options vary based on cancer stage, tumour size, hormone receptor status, and overall health. Regular follow-up care is crucial to monitor for recurrence and manage side effects,' he adds. What is the survival rate in early-stage breast cancer? The five-year survival rate for stage 0 to stage III breast cancer is over 90% according to the American Cancer Society. 'Treatment typically involves surgery, such as lumpectomy ( organ conservation as often as possible), often followed by radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or targeted therapy, depending on the cancer's characteristics,' says Dr. Niti Raizada, Principal Director Medical Oncology, Fortis Hospital Bannerghatta Road. Can breast cancer development be prevented? According to Dr. Chaitra Deshpande, a radiation oncologist at Onco Life Cancer Centre in Satara, "Breast cancer can be diagnosed in women between the ages of 18 and 45 years. Moreover, the breast cancer in 45-year-olds is quite aggressive and is difficult to treat." However, it can be prevented by involving a combination of lifestyle choices and awareness. 1. Obesity, especially after menopause, is linked to a higher risk of breast cancer. Please choose a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. 2. Regular exercise can help maintain a healthy weight and lower hormone levels associated with breast cancer. at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week. 3. Limiting alcohol to no more than one drink per day can help reduce your risk. 4. Early detection through mammograms can lead to better outcomes. Discuss with your healthcare provider the right screening schedule based on your age and risk factors. 5. A family history of breast cancer can increase your risk. Consider genetic counselling if you have concerns. 6. Smoking is linked to various cancers, including breast cancer. Quitting can improve your overall health. To stay updated on the stories that are going viral, follow Indiatimes Trending.
Daily Record
04-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Inside Jessie J's health battles amid breast cancer diagnosis including heartbreaking miscarriage
Price Tag singer Jessie J, 37, has remained in high spirits despite announcing she has been diagnosed with 'early breast cancer' and it's not the first of her health woes. Jessie J has faced a number of various health problems over the years. The 37-year-old has certainly not had an easy time of it, including facing a heartbreaking fertility diagnosis. It comes as the Price Tag singer and former judge on The Voice announced she has been diagnosed with 'early breast cancer'. Jessie is set to undergo surgery following her performance on stage later this month at the Summertime Ball. She has faced numerous health challenges, including being diagnosed with a cardiac condition at the age of eight, enduring a minor stroke at 17, and temporarily losing her hearing in 2020. As the Who You Are singer bravely jokes about 'living her breast life' ahead of her surgery, here's a look at some of the health woes the star has had to endure... Cardiac and stroke Jessie opened up about her rare heart condition that has affected her since she's been a child. The health problem, Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, caused her to suffer a minor stroke when she was aged just 17 years old. Explaining she first was diagnosed at the age of eight, the condition affects the electrical system of the heart and causes symptoms like irregular heartbeats, tightness and shortness of breath. The condition runs in her family and her dad also suffers from it. The Flashlight singer explained how her parents shaped her positive attitude from a young age, never allowing the condition to get the better of her. Speaking to Australian, 9Now, she said: 'I think my mum and dad never allowed me to be defined by something that was a weakness. Ever since I was young it was like, 'Just get on with it. You can do this'.' Addressing a cancer gala audience in New York in 2020, Jessie told the star-studded crowd that she wrote her song 'Who You Are' when she was 18, after she 'had just had a minor stroke," admitting: "I thought that I was never going to get better. 'I feel so lucky that I was given a second chance at life,' she continued. 'So every day when I am able to do this, you have no idea how amazing it feels that I'm so lucky to be onstage and singing and living my dream.' Waking up 'completely deaf' Jessie had another shock when she woke up one morning "completely deaf" and unable to walk in a straight line. She was later diagnosed with Meniere's disease, a chronic inner ear disorder that can cause vertigo and tinnitus. The singing sensation recalled her experience with the condition telling her followers during an Instagram live: "I woke up and felt like I was completely deaf in my right ear, couldn't walk in a straight line." Jessie added: "I know that a lot of people suffer from it and I've actually had a lot of people reach out to me and give me great advice, so I've just been laying low in silence. "Now's the first time I've been able to sing and bear it," the artist admitted. "I'm super grateful for my health. It just threw me off." Fertility struggle Jessie J is now a loving mum to her son, Sky Safir Cornish Colman, however before the happily family unit, with her partner Chanan Colman, she faced some heartbreaking news. Back in 2018, Jessie told the audience at her gig at the Royal Albert Hall she could never have children, revealing: "I was told four years ago that I can't ever have children." "I don't tell you guys for sympathy, because I'm one of millions of women and men that have gone through this and will go through this," Jessie told the crowd. Prior to performing her song, Four Letter Word, she continued: "If you've ever experienced anything with this or have seen somebody else go through it or have lost a child, then please know you're not alone in your pain and I'm thinking of you when I sing this song. "It's hard not to feel alone when dealing with fertility issues, but knowing that someone else has faced the same challenges can be a source of comfort." In 2021, Jessie suffered a miscarriage after deciding to have a baby on her own after being diagnosed with womb condition, adenomyosis. However, happily, the star did become a mum, two years ago when her beautiful son Sky was born. Revealing the happy news on Instagram, she shared: "A week ago my whole life changed. My son entered this world and my heart grew twice the size." Breast cancer diagnosis Jessie has revealed she's been diagnosed with "early breast cancer" and plans to undergo surgery after her performance at this month's Summertime Ball. The Domino star shared an Instagram video explaining that she's spent a lot of her recent time "in and out of tests". "I was diagnosed with early breast cancer," mum-of-one Jessie disclosed as she spoke directly to her fans in the video. "Cancer sucks in any form, but I'm holding on to the word 'early'. "It's a very dramatic way to get a boob job. I am going to disappear for a bit after Summertime Ball to have my surgery, and I will come back with massive t**s and more music." Jessie captioned her moving video: "No (more) Secrets and is it too soon to do a remix called 'Living my breast life'? All jokes aside (You know it's one of the ways I get through hard times) "This last 2 months have been so amazing, and having this go on along side it on the sidelines has given me the most incredible perspective. BUT… Your girl needs a hug."
Sky News AU
04-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Sky News AU
British popstar and former Voice Australia coach Jessie J reveals devastating breast cancer diagnosis
British popstar Jessie J has revealed she's been diagnosed with 'early' breast cancer and will pause her career to undergo treatment. The 37-year-old hitmaker has revealed she was diagnosed with the disease months ago shortly before the release of her most recent single 'No Secrets' in April. In an Instagram video shared on Tuesday, the popstar said that she has spent this year "in and out of tests" before finally receiving the diagnosis about two months ago. "I was diagnosed with early breast cancer," the singer revealed. "I'm highlighting the world early because cancer sucks in any form, but I'm holding on to the word 'early.'" The Grammy-nominated singer, who has one child with professional basketball player Chanan Colman, said she was still 'processing' the news. 'Selfishly, I do not talk about it enough," she said. "I'm not processing it because I'm working so hard. 'I also know how much sharing in the past has helped me with other people giving me their love and support and also their own stories. I'm an open book." She also expressed her desire to show solidarity with other cancer sufferers going through "similar or worse". "It breaks my heart that so many people are going through so much similar and worse – that's the bit that kills me," Jessie said. The "Flashlight" hitmaker then joked about her treatment plans after her upcoming performance at the Summertime Ball in London on June 15. "It's a very dramatic way to get a boob job," she said. "I am going to disappear for a bit after Summertime Ball to have my surgery, and I will come back with massive t*ts and more music.' Born Jessica Ellen Cornish, the popstar rocketed to fame off the back of her breakout single 'Price Tag' in 2011, which peaked atop the charts in 19 countries and reached No. 2 on the ARIA chart. The British star also served as a coach on The Voice Australia for two seasons in 2015 and 2016 alongside the Madden brothers, Ricky Martin, Delta Goodrem and Ronan Keating.
