This weekend, dive into six remarkable stories from the past week that explore diverse topics from the Japanese underworld to the ethics of pet ownership.
The Rise and Fall of the Only Female Yakuza
Sean Williams interviews Mako Nishimura, who fought her way into the Japanese underworld. She discusses how drug addiction and the decline of organized crime gangs nearly destroyed her. The piece offers a rare glimpse into the life of a female yakuza, highlighting the challenges she faced in a male-dominated world.
Behold! Nina Simone’s Chewing Gum: Inside the Show Celebrating Extreme Pop Fandom
Alexis Petridis explores Holy Pop, a new London exhibition that celebrates superfandom. The show features items like leaves from Dolly Parton’s front garden, a Yellow Submarine cookie jar full of ashes, and a branch from the sycamore tree that Marc Bolan’s car hit. The exhibition is funny, moving, and a mood-boost for anyone who has ever been mocked for their obsessive interest in an artist.
What Happened to the ‘Little Refugee Girl’?
Guardian Berlin correspondent Deborah Cole polishes two brass memorial plaques outside her apartment dedicated to a Jewish mother and daughter murdered by the Nazis. A message out of the blue connects her to a surviving child, leading to a friendship with Sonja Ibermann Cowan. This moving article recounts the centenarian’s life from Nazi Germany to Melbourne.
Should You Be Able to Take Your Dog Everywhere?
Emine Saner examines the growing trend of dogs in public places, from cafes and restaurants to offices and supermarkets. Not everyone is happy about this, with concerns over hygiene and personal boundaries. The piece also mentions a petition to allow dogs on flights to the UK, sparking debate about where pets belong.
Fake Lawyers, Scientists, Chefs, and Punters: The ‘White Monkeys’ of Chinese Business
Elaine Chong investigates the unregulated economy of baihouzi, or “white monkeys” – foreign faces hired to make Chinese businesses appear more global. These positions range from actors in films to pretend CEOs, seat-warmers in nightclubs, or English teachers in language centers. The association with foreigners lends credibility and desirability to products and services.
The Battle Over Saving Orangutans from Palm Oil
Sally Williams explores the conflict between orangutans and humans as new settlers clear forest habitats. Translocation, or moving apes to other parts of the forest, may not be the answer. The piece delves into the ethical dilemmas and challenges of conservation efforts in the face of palm oil expansion.
These six reads offer thought-provoking insights into a range of contemporary issues. Explore more on these topics and share your thoughts.
