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When it comes to the basics, translation is relatively straightforward. But David Bellos argues that translating sentences, not to mention books, is inherently complex.

'A Fish In Your Ear': What Gets Lost In Translation

Russian has a word for light blue and a word for dark blue, but no word for a general shade of blue. So when interpreters translate "blue" into Russian, they're forced to pick a shade. It's one of the many complexities of translation David Bellos explores in his new book, Is That a Fish in Your Ear?

Regis Philbin Explains How He 'Got This Way'

On Friday, Regis Philbin will step down from his hosting duties on the talk show Live with Regis and Kelly. But that doesn't mean he's retiring. In his new memoir, How I Got This Way, Philbin chronicles the twists and turns of his career and explains where he plans to go next.

Trapped In A Nightmare: A Sweet, Funny, Brutal Read

The best books don't just get inside a character's psyche, they get in the reader's head, as well. Author Ismet Prcic recommends Irvine Welsh's Marabou Stork Nightmares, a funny, provocative, cerebral novel that explores the meaning of violence.

Opposition To Nazis Binds French Women In 'Train'

In January 1943, 230 women of the French Resistance were sent to Auschwitz. Only 49 of them came back. Journalist Caroline Moorehead's latest book chronicles the bond between the women that enabled them to make it through.

Then-Vice President Richard Nixon arrives in Chicago for the 1960 Republican National Convention with his wife, Pat, and his daughters Patricia (left) and Julie (right). Mrs. Nixon was known for her ever-present smile and well-groomed appearance.

'Mrs. Nixon' Reimagines An Enigmatic First Lady

Who was Pat Nixon? Aside from being the wife of President Richard Nixon — and a very private person — she remains mostly a mystery. Now, a new novel by Ann Beattie blends fact and fiction in an effort to sketch the life of the former first lady.

Yangon residents enjoy the sunset on the city's river. For decades, the Southeast Asian nation of Myanmar has suffered under a repressive military rule. But a new government installed in March says it's sincere about reform.

In Myanmar, A Wary Welcome For Signs Of Change

In March, the Myanmar military installed a new government that says it's sincere about reforming its repressive rule. It's loosened media restrictions and suspended work on a controversial dam. But skeptics fear that the changes are merely a way to placate the people and preserve the status quo.

In Myanmar, A Wary Welcome For Signs Of Change

In March, the Myanmar military installed a new government that says it's sincere about reforming its repressive rule. It's loosened media restrictions and suspended work on a controversial dam. But skeptics fear that the changes are merely a way to placate the people and preserve the status quo.

Epic Fantasy Meets Americana In 'The Dragon's Tooth'

In The Dragon's Tooth, young-adult fiction writer N.D. Wilson shows that kids can be the keepers of the world's secrets, death is not always the end, and a roadside motel in Wisconsin can be just as magical as Hogwarts.

The Ash Grove Cement factory, which burns hazardous waste for fuel, is in compliance with EPA pollution standards.

EPA Regulations Give Kilns Permission To Pollute

Cement plants, like Ash Grove in Chanute, Kan., burn hazardous waste for fuel, causing anxiety for nearby residents despite assurances of regulators.

Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle says the city is "the only place in the world that still has expertise about going into deep space."

Alabama's 'Rocket City' Hopes For Another Boom

Huntsville is the shining star in Alabama's economy. Scientists there designed the rockets that put man on the moon. In the past 50 years, it's become a magnet for high-tech space and defense jobs. But with NASA downsizing and the specter of defense cuts looming, Huntsville finds itself in limbo.

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