“Eunice Kathleen Waymon (February 21, 1933–April 21, 2003), better known by her stage name was an American singer, songwriter, pianist, arranger, and civil rights activist. Although she disliked being categorized, Simone is most associated with jazz music. Simone originally aspired to become a classical pianist, but her work covers an eclectic variety of musical styles that include classical, jazz, blues, soul, folk, R&B, gospel, and pop. Her vocal style is characterized by intense passion, a loose vibrato, and a slightly androgynous timbre, in part due to her unusually low vocal range which veered between the alto and tenor ranges (occasionally even reaching baritone lows). Also known as The High Priestess of Soul, she paid great attention to the musical expression of emotions. Within one album or concert she could fluctuate between exuberant happiness and tragic melancholy. These fluctuations also characterized her own personality and personal life, amplified by bipolar disorder with which she was diagnosed in the mid-1960s, something not revealed until after her death in 2003.” Rubens
The Guardian“This is without doubt the best newspaper in the world. But to call it a newspaper of course is no longer big enough a word – though its heritage is in excellence in journalism. Its pioneering spirit and innovative product development meant that it was one of the first brands in its sector understand and embrace the importance of digital, and at one point it had the largest worldwide readership for its news site of any newspaper (when the other guys were still dabbling). I have grown up with this brand and am always mystified when people choose to read other titles. It treats its readership with respect, collects a broad church of the best of today’s writers, and rather than forcing its own agenda down your throat, it provides a range of views, many contrary. As well, of course, as providing an editorial point of view. I believe in this brand, I trust this brand, I come to this brand for information, for help navigating the complexities of modern life, for entertainment and for fun. I am proud that this brand – my brand – restlessly seeks to improve and evolve its product. I cannot imagine the world without the Guardian in it: I would be heart-broken. And I guess that’s love.” Rachel
Sir Edmund Hillary
“Two pictures of the same man: a mid-20th century passport photo, young, humble, but ever determined; occupation listed as “beekeeper”. Not-yet Sir Ed carries this with him and Sherpa Tensing as they scale the heights and knock the bastard off. The other picture, a New Zealand $5 note; same bold but unassuming grin. Millions of them circulating throughout Aotearoa and the Pacific. We all carry one or two in our pockets, comfort through whatever heights we ourselves have to scale. Until his passing, that face, that man was the only living non-head of state to appear on any nation’s currency. And perhaps, in our lifetime, the only smile truly worthy.” Eric, New Zealand
Fawlty Towers
“It is one of the best comedy shows ever. There aren’t a lot of shows that can even come close. Basil Fawlty is a genius and the one giving the show the spark it needs.” Shave, UK
Kinokuniya
“How can one bookshop be different than the others? Go to Kinokuniya and you will see. Kinokuniya source interesting and thoughtful books about great topics that help us live a more educated and insightful life.” Brenda, United Arab Emirates.
