The success of the latter is what transformed him into a genuine publishing phenomenon, for anyone who can fascinate the masses with a book about the birth of modern geology is truly an author with the magic touch.

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Murakami's book 1Q84 was described in its nomination as "a gripping, intelligent and unusual read with characters and situations that fascinate and challenge the reader".

BBC: Impac Literary Award shortlist announced

The news, announced in February, made headlines, as is usual with all things French that so fascinate Americans.

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Yet, the Galleon trial, now in its sixth week, continues to fascinate me as the defense attempts to refute the mounds of taped evidence that the prosecution presented, along with a string of cooperating witnesses who testified that they broke the law by providing Raj Rajaratnam with insider information.

FORBES: If The Galleon Trial Were A Law And Order Episode, Who Would Star?