Latest news with #Ilya
ABC News
20 hours ago
- Entertainment
- ABC News
How Powerless author Lauren Roberts became a bestseller at just 22 years old
The idea for Lauren Roberts' debut novel came to her when she was just 18 years old. So she did what any teenager with access to a phone would do next: start a live stream to share her idea with BookTok. "And [my followers] were like, 'We want to read it!' Telling me to add this trope and that trope," the US writer tells ABC Arts. She spent the next three months writing Powerless, which went on to become a bestselling YA romantic fantasy (romantasy) novel, in between studying at college and working a part-time job. "I'd be up until 4am every day writing, and then I'd wake up and go to school and then [to my job] and do all of that all over again." After finishing the first draft, Roberts hired a freelance editor to help shape her manuscript, asked her mum if she could leave college and moved back home, where she Googled: "How to self-publish a book." Somehow, in 2023, she pulled it together and published her debut just after her 19th birthday. The world was very interested, as it turns out, in Roberts' protagonist Paedyn Gray, a pickpocket from the slums of Ilya considered a powerless Ordinary in a society that only serves Elites with special abilities. Until, that is, she unwittingly saves the life of Prince Malakai and is thrust into the kingdom's annual purging competition, a series of deadly trials meant to showcase the most powerful Elites and reinforce the tyrant King Edric's rule. By late 2023, Roberts had signed a deal with a traditional publisher who wanted to pick up the first instalment in her dystopian tale of romance and political intrigue. Since then, she's written four more books (the third novel in the Powerless trilogy, Fearless, came out in April) and become a New York Times bestselling author. And a TV adaptation is underway. All this by the age of 22. "I can't believe this has happened. I didn't imagine this would ever be a thing," Roberts says of her success. She says life has simultaneously changed "so much" and "not at all". She's still living in the same apartment with her cats. But she's quit her part-time job and is now writing romantasy full time. "I get up and I just write most of the day. But, aside from incredible [book] tours — when I get to meet so many people that love these books and it's like, 'Whoa, this is crazy' — it doesn't feel big. It's just me in my apartment." Roberts is still learning to navigate the pressure — and scrutiny — that have accompanied her success. Not only is she a young author new to the publishing world, who started out as a BookTok influencer, she's also faced criticism over what some readers believe are similarities between her debut and popular YA fantasy series such as Suzanne Collins' The Hunger Games and Victoria Aveyard's Red Queen. Roberts has been open about this for years. "Absolutely, there are similarities to The Hunger Games … and to so many other amazing books out there," she says now. "And that's how it is because there are billions of works." Still, the Goodreads pages for her books are filled with reviews by readers arguing the Powerless series is, at best, derivative and too heavily reliant on romance and dystopian fiction tropes and, at worst, a rip-off of various fantasy novels. Roberts says this "can be a little frustrating". "But I do remind myself that, a lot of the time, they're 14-year-olds and we know how the internet is. And at the end of the day, there's inspiration from every angle, and tropes are something that are in every book. "On the internet, I don't feel the need to address it because it's simply not true." This strategy is working — for now, at least. While Roberts can't say much about the Powerless TV adaptation, she confirms, "There are things happening behind the scenes [and] we're very excited." There's also an upcoming international book tour, including Australia. "We're travelling from one side of Australia to the other, with tons of stops, and I'm really excited to answer the readers' burning questions," she says. There are more books in the works, too, including another Powerless novella titled Fearful, out in September. After that, Roberts plans to slow down the release schedule. Not only did she write Powerless in three months, she also finished the first drafts for follow-up books Reckless and Fearless in the same amount of time. Roberts wrote Powerful, the first Powerless novella, in just 28 days. "It is daunting. It's not like, 'I'll just write for two hours today and whatever.' It's definitely three months of head-down writing," Roberts says of her process up until now. "This past year, it has been go, go, go. So I'm reaching a point where I do want to space out the books a little more. Nothing crazy, but even just writing one book a year." Rebecca Yarros, another high-profile romantasy author, signalled plans to do the same in November 2023. At the same time, the publishing industry is facing increasing comparisons to fast fashion, with some readers attributing the "Sheinification of books" to what they perceive as the decreasing quality of fantasy novels. The Powerless series is frequently brought up as part of these conversations online. Roberts doesn't let the criticism get in her way, instead choosing to "focus on the positives". She says her number one goal in finishing the Powerless series is "staying true to what 18-year-old me started". Lauren Roberts will be discussing Powerless at events in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth from June 21-29.
New York Times
5 days ago
- Politics
- New York Times
Live Updates: Israel Says It Attacked Headquarters of Powerful Iranian Military Unit
Where to go? What to do? Is my neighborhood safe? As deadly Israeli strikes rain down on Iran, these are among the questions desperate and confused Iranians are asking as they search for guidance. Amid swirling rumors and a dearth of official information, many Iranians have started relying on one another to share tips and safety information. 'My biggest concern is nothing other than radioactive leaks and the bombing of areas that have nuclear facilities. I haven't personally received any official guidance,' Ilya, 28, from the city of Karaj, near Tehran, said via text. Ilya asked to be identified only by his first name for security reasons. The surprise attacks on Iran, which began on Friday, have highlighted the country's apparent lack of preparedness for war — including its paucity of shelters, bunkers or functioning air-raid sirens. Without much clear direction from the government, Iranian musicians, artists, chefs and influencers have been sharing infographics on social media with titles including 'What You Should Do if You're in the Metro During an Airstrike' or 'How to Speak to Children in War Times.' Several people in Iran whom The New York Times messaged and spoke with said they were unsure whether to go to work or whether students should go to school — a fraught dilemma at the height of final exam season. Many Iranians are unsure of what information they can trust and what to believe — regardless of whether it comes from the government or from unofficial channels. 'I keep seeing Instagram stories with guidance and information but they don't have a clear source and are pretty scattered,' Ilya said. He added: 'Honestly, I don't know which ones are accurate and which aren't, because it's all scattered and unclear, and everyone seems to have their own opinion.' In family WhatsApp groups, confusion abounded. Many comments came from Iranian women who cited their experience during the Iran-Iraq war in the 1980s, offering tips to distinguish the sounds of strikes from those of air-defense interceptions, to help inform their current situation. Other people have struggled to access the internet, with communication networks in the country increasingly spotty. On Sunday, the third consecutive day of Israeli attacks, the Iranian government stressed that measures were being taken to protect the population. 'Mosques are shelters for all people, and starting tonight, the metros will also open so that people can have access to safe spaces 24/7,' said Fatemeh Mohajerani, a government spokeswoman, referring to Tehran's rapid transit system, which is mostly underground. In remarks carried by Iranian news media, she added that many schools could also be used as shelters. It was unclear, though, how many people would be reassured. Long lines formed at gas stations in Tehran, the capital, and the city's roads were choked with traffic as terrified families scrambled to leave. Image The Israeli strikes that began on Friday have highlighted Iran's lack of preparedness for war. Credit... Arash Khamooshi for The New York Times In Isfahan, a city in central Iran that has been struck by the Israeli military campaign, one woman, Farangis, said she tried on Saturday night to convince a friend to join her in leaving the city for a village further south. 'Just like last time,' Farangis, who is in her 70s, said she told her friend. That was all that Farangis, who for security reasons asked that only her first name be used, needed to say: Decades ago, both women had fled their homes when Iraq was bombing Iran. But her friend refused, Farangis said, saying that she could not leave her children and grandchildren — who had 'school and work that doesn't seem to have been canceled.'
Hamilton Spectator
11-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Hamilton Spectator
The Ship of Tolerance Sails into Canada with Message of Peace and Diversity
A vibrant wooden vessel docked in Oakville is drawing attention and sparking conversations about unity, inclusion and hope. The Ship of Tolerance, an international art installation by renowned artists Ilya and Emilia Kabakov, has been open to the public for a week and a half and will remain on display until Sept. 30, 2025. The installation aims to educate and connect youth from diverse backgrounds through the language of art. First launched in Siwa, Egypt, in 2005, the project involved children living near the Libyan border. Since then, the boat has travelled to 17 cities around the world — including Venice, Miami, Moscow, Zug, and London — and now Oakville. 'The Ship of Tolerance has been realized in over a dozen cities around the world over the past twenty years,' said Orliana Morag, director of the Kabakov Foundation. Oakville Galleries has played a central role in bringing the project to the community, organizing workshops with 2,000 local children, coordinating with international partners, and facilitating the shipbuilders' arrival from Manchester. 'Many children expressed pride and excitement at seeing their artwork featured in a large-scale public installation,' said Shannon Ye, communications manager for Oakville Galleries. The city was selected for its ongoing relationship with the Kabakov Foundation and its commitment to public art. Morag noted that cities are often chosen based on social issues they face — from U.S.–Cuba relations in Miami and Havana to refugee resettlement in Zug and environmental awareness in London. 'Director of Oakville Galleries has worked on various projects with Ilya and Emilia Kabakov going back about twenty years,' said Morag. 'When he invited us to bring the Ship to Oakville, we jumped at the chance to partner with him, his incredible staff at Oakville Galleries, and the National Gallery of Canada.' 'Oakville Galleries initiated the presentation of The Ship of Tolerance in Oakville as part of its commitment to public art and community engagement,' said Ye. Visitors have praised the exhibition for its creativity and meaningful message. 'It's nice to see the space used for something different and unique, and especially the message is really good for the community,' said Oakville resident David Sandison. Another visitor said she learned about the installation from the local library and called the ship a 'marvellous' expression of beauty and compassion. 'This type of art should be shared with everyone to encourage tolerance, kindness and inclusivity,' she said. Morag emphasized that children often have a clearer, more open-minded view of the world than adults. 'They see past borders and superficial differences and are willing to engage with one another on a deeper level — one that explores both shared aspirations and shared fears,' she said. For many in Oakville, the exhibition offers a first-time experience with global public art and a reminder of the shared humanity that connects communities worldwide. Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .
Time of India
30-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
"We will do everything to make you smile": Anastasia Shubskaya shares pictures from son Ilya Ovechkin's birthday bash
Anastasia Shubskaya, wife to NHL sensation Alexander Ovechkin, posted a heartfelt tribute to their son Ilya, who just turned five on May 27. She also shared candid photos from his birthday celebration, giving fans a glimpse into the off-ice life of one of hockey's most legendary families—and a reminder that Alexander Ovechkin's greatest legacy is perhaps not in goals, but in fatherhood. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Alexander Ovechkin and Anastasia Shubskaya mark their son Ilya's 5th birthday with a Capitals-themed party The birthday party was a love letter to Ilya and to the sport that flows in the veins of the Ovechkin family. With personalized touches that made the area look like a mini Capital One Arena, the party had red, white, black, and silver balloons, a mini 'locker room' with jerseys and sticks, and a puck-shaped centerpiece to celebrate Ilya's special day with a scoreboard "05–00. Wearing a miniature replica of Russia's 2014 Olympic hockey jersey, Ilya looked every bit his father's son—beaming as he wielded a hockey stick with the same confidence fans have seen from Alexander Ovechkin on NHL ice for nearly two decades. But over and above the equipment and the rinkside aesthetic, it was Anastasia's personal message that meant the most to fans. What her words expressed was not only pride but also fierce, unassuming dedication to fostering joy, wellness, and happiness in their home—one that is frequently shared with the world via cozy family portraits and unposed moments on her social media. The caption read: 'Happy birthday, our beloved son! Dad and I are so lucky to be your parents! The most important thing is to be healthy, and we will continue to do everything to make you happy and smile as often as possible [blue heart emoji]' Their first son, Sergei, was born in 2018 and named for Ovechkin's deceased brother. Ilya arrived in 2020, and both boys are already steeped in the sport of hockey—though for now, at least, in the most lighthearted of manners. Also read: Shubskaya posts regularly from their home life: birthday moments, family holidays, and peaceful evenings in with the children. It's a peek into a lovingly structured life, where Ovechkin's on-ice brilliance is equaled by his dedication as a parent.
Yahoo
10-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Russian drones designed to maim not kill overwhelm Ukrainian medics
Russian drones designed to maim, not kill, are overwhelming Ukrainian medics with shrapnel wounds that are much harder to treat than injuries from conventional shelling. Battlefield surgeons say they have been inundated with soldiers injured in drone strikes – particularly by the newer FPV type which explode on impact and are guided to their targets with goggles and a fibre optic cable, meaning they can evade Ukraine's jamming. These drones, they told The Telegraph, cause complex wounds that can involve dozens of tiny pieces of shrapnel as well as burns and other forms of trauma. 'Recently drones are causing more tiny shrapnel injuries all over the body that are getting very difficult and sometimes impossible to remove,' Ilya*, a surgeon serving on the frontline in Donetsk, told The Telegraph. Russia has dramatically ramped up its use of FPV drones since late last year, and Ukrainian medics say they are now behind the majority of battlefield casualties. Aleksandr, a 42-year-old medic also working in Donetsk Oblast, said that around 60 to 70 per cent of injured soldiers they treat have been wounded by FPV drones. Ihor, a 35-year-old medic working in Kursk, said most injuries in the area are currently drone-related and are designed to draw more people onto the battlefield. 'Now, we see more wounded soldiers. Artillery shells cause larger, more lethal fragments, whereas drone strikes produce smaller wounds that are still incapacitating but often not immediately fatal,' he said. 'They (the Russians) also attach explosives to FPV drones, which can penetrate our armour,' he added. 'When that happens, it generates extreme heat, causing burns. Just a few days ago, we lost a guy to this.' Shortages in medical equipment are exacerbating the problem, said Ilya. Some brigades are running low on tourniquets, which are used to stop heavy bleeding when limbs are injured, and some are even short on painkillers. 'I'd be asked to help one person, but quickly there would be two or three,' he said. 'I have to improvise to make sure I am able to help.' Ilya once turned his own belt into a makeshift tourniquet, and even used part of a soldier's destroyed helmet as a brace to stabilise his head and protect his spine. The nature of the wounds makes it more difficult to assess the treatment the soldier needs, he added. 'If the small piece gets into an artery, it will be very difficult to stop the bleeding. After an artillery attack you see straight away if the patient has such an injury,' he said. 'With drones, it is harder to know the extent of the injuries in time to save lives.' Soldiers wounded by drones also generally take up space in hospitals and triage centres for longer because of the more complicated nature of the surgery needed to treat them. In most cases it is impossible for surgeons to get every piece of shrapnel, leaving wounded soldiers with potentially life-long complications. Ilya treated one soldier whose back had been sprayed with shrapnel, some of which could not be removed. 'He will feel it for a long time,' he said. 'The soldiers have no choice but to live with pain for the rest of their lives.' Donald Trump's decision to stop sharing intelligence with Ukraine has made drone warfare even more deadly for the country's soldiers. 'Tactically, it means that the Ukrainians have less situational awareness, so they have less information about where Russian forces are and where drones and other military equipment are stored and can be attacked,' said Marcel Plichta, a former analyst at the US Department of Defence. In the last few weeks, Ilya has seen Russia change its tactics and believes Moscow is 'almost moving to a drone war alone'. The Russians, he said, 'are trying to save their numbers, so they are sending more drones instead.' According to Mr Plichta, Russian tactics are currently to pin Ukrainians down in trenches or other cover using artillery, waiting until they are trapped, and then sending in drones to cause maximum damage. 'One small explosion in the right place can be more damaging than a large explosion a hundred yards away,' he said. 'If someone isn't killed, they will often be severely injured enough that they need to be evacuated, which puts other personnel and medics at risk getting to them and getting them out.' As drone attacks intensify, it is becoming harder for medics to evacuate their patients. Ilya said wounded soldiers 'can be waiting for two or even three days' before medical help arrives, while parts of the battlefield can be out of reach entirely. 'Once we would run in and out, but now the drones are always watching.' *Names have been changed to protect identities Protect yourself and your family by learning more about Global Health Security Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
