Brave New World is a classic science fiction book, published in 1932. It is, therefore, perhaps disturbing how deeply applicable its themes remain today. Society is organised and overseen, with humans even being made on an assembly line - just like Ford cars. The aims are simple: ensure people buy as much as possible, and that everyone knows their place. It is a world without sickness but also without poetry, literature or even monogamy; the justification being that divisive subjects decrease efficiency.

If you enjoy science fiction – or just want to brush up on the classics, I recommend

In 1984, a small group of Travellers and settled people came together in South Dublin to create a more equal, less divided society.

Over the years, that group has continued to evolve and develop, providing learning opportunities, supporting health and social needs, and working hard with Travellers and with the broader community to make South Dublin a better place, for us all.

It's been a journey of challenges and triumphs, of huge gains and enormous setbacks. Of tremendous sadness and wonderful joy.

It's a journey that's still underway. A story that's still being told.

Today, Southside

The story is exactly what you would imagine from the title. The main character, a hen who names herself Sprout, begins to question her purpose. However, unbeknownst to herself, she is becoming too old to lay eggs, and her days are numbered. The writing is simple and draws the reader in to the point where they care deeply about what happens to this plucky hen. Without giving away too much of the plot, it is touching, heartfelt, and beautiful.

The Siege reads like a Frederick Forsyth novel but is based on the thrilling true story of the 1980 Iranian Embassy Siege which transfixed the world for six days in 1980 climaxing in the heroic and spectacular rescue of hostages by the shadowy but today internationally famous Special Air Service Regiment. 

In 1979 the pro Western Shah of Iran Mohammad Reza Pahlavi was overthrown by a popular uprising and revolution which was soon taken over by Shia clerics led by Ayatollah Khomeini who introduced Islamic rule.
Iranian Arab insurgents seeking self rule were crushed by the Iranian government