How big things start small, or: the story of Black History MonthPublished inThe Medium BlogSent as aNewsletter3 min readJust now-- Welcome backIssue #259: asking yourself why, Brian Enos life advice, and courageBy Harris SockelIn 1926, Carter G. Woodson, one of the first historians to focus specifically on the African diaspora, proposed a celebration of Black Americans contributions to the country (it was first just a week) coinciding with Abraham Lincolns birthday, February 12. In 1970, the holiday became a month-long celebration when college students and professors decided to make it a thing at Kent State University in Ohio. In 1976, it went national becoming the version of Black History Month we know today.I love that this holiday started small and built into something much bigger. A single historian proposed it; then, a group of students who were passionate about deepening their understanding of history turned it into a weeklong celebration. Meanwhile, for decades since the mid-1960s, activists and historians in West Virginia, Chicago, and elsewhere had been celebrating their own, local Black History Months. Eventually, 50 years after Woodson proposed the idea, it became a national institution.With that in mind, I want to spotlight a Medium publication focusing exclusively on perspectives and stories from overlooked (yet highly influential) Black Americans: William Spiveys Black History Month 365. Spiveys been running the publication since 2021, and has used it to feature over 400 landmark speeches, historic moments, and people, from Ella Baker (a civil rights organizer who largely worked behind the scenes) to Frederick Douglass. He also created a quiz, if youre the competitive type.One more story to bookmark: Marlon Weems Remembering the South End, an essay about Weems life in Arkansas during the 60s, when Jim Crow laws made Little Rock into a segregated city. Its a moving, highly specific window into the past Weems takes us to the South End, a neighborhood where Black entrepreneurs opened doctors offices, law firms, restaurants, and barbershops. Little Rock was a city still in the grip of Jim Crow, Weems writes, But as a Black fourth grader, I hardly noticed the system of apartheid that surrounded me. It was all Id ever known. Three great stories in 1 sentence or less.You wont finish that piece of writing until you know why youre writing it. (David B. Clear)The key to a long life, a good figure, a stable temperament, increased intelligence, new friends, super self-confidence, heightened sexual attractiveness and a better sense of humor? Singing (even if youre bad at it). (Brian Eno)Dori Kasa takes on a brief tour of the many flavors of Scotch whisky, from the highlands to the lowlands and beyond and clears up our confusion over how to spell it (whiskey for the American or Irish variants, and whisky for Scottish ones). The top highlight on Medium last weekThe real courage isnt in speaking every truth we hold its in knowing which truths serve a purpose and which ones were better off carrying silently away. Victoria Corindi, The Exit Interview Trap: Why Its Better to Lie

Konami revises forecasts as profits increase 38% to $560mLaunches of Silent Hill 2 and Professional Baseball Spirits provides boost during publisher's most recent quarterImage credit: Bloober Team/Konami News by Sophie McEvoy Staff Writer Published on Feb. 3, 2025 Konami has released its financial results for the nine months ending December 31, 2024, during which revenues increased 22% to 310.8 billion and profits rose 38% to 87.1 billion.The numbers:Revenue: 310.8 billion ($2 billion, up 22.8% year-on-year)Business profit: 87.1 billion ($560 million, up 38.7% year-on-year)Operating profit: 86.7 billion ($557 million, up 45.5% year-on-year)Digital EntertainmentRevenue: 228.8 billion ($1.4 billion, up 32% year-on-year)Business profit: 80.8 billion ($519.7 million, up 44.6% year-on-year)The highlights:Konami reported a successful period for its Digital Entertainment segment, which handles its video games business, accounting for nearly 74% of the firm's overall revenue.The Silent Hill 2 remake had a major impact on Konami's most recent quarter, having sold over two million copies since its October launch.Sales were also boosted by the launches of Professional Baseball Spirits 2024-2025, eBaseball MLB Pro Spirit, and the latest eFootball installment. The latter has been downloaded more than 800 million times worldwide across consoles, PC, and mobile platforms.Konami also provided insight for the remainder of the fiscal year, noting that it was "working diligently" on the Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater. As for the Silent Hill franchise, the firm said it will continue to "produce completely new titles" with an update to be broadcast through its Silent Hill Transmission showcase.Elsewhere, Konami saw a slight increase in revenue in its Amusement segment, which rose 3.6% to 16.9 billion ($108.7 million) in total revenue. Business profit jumped 16.2% to 2.5 billion ($16 million) during the same period.As a result of the overall increase in revenue and profits, Konami has revised its forecasts for the current financial year.The firm initially expected full-year revenues to reach 380 billion ($2.4 billion), which has been revised to 412 billion ($2.6 billion) an increase of 14.3%.Business profit has increased 22.4% from 92.5 billion ($595 billion) to 108 billion ($694.6 billion), while operating profits have risen by 24.6% from 84.5 billion ($543.5 billion) to 100 billion ($694.6 billion).

Microsoft is getting ready to remove the VPN feature from its Microsoft 365 subscription later this month. Originally designed as a privacy feature, the VPN in Microsoft 365 utilizes the Microsoft Defender app to encrypt internet traffic and hide IP addresses. Microsoft is now removing this privacy protection feature from Microsoft 365 on February 28th.We routinely evaluate the usage and effectiveness of our features. As such, we are removing the privacy protection feature and will invest in new areas that will better align to customer needs, says Microsoft in a support note spotted by Windows Central.Microsoft 365 subscribers will still get access to identity theft and credit monitoring in the US, but theyll have to look elsewhere for VPN support. Its clear that a lack of people using the privacy protection feature has led to Microsoft removing it, but the VPN in Microsoft 365 was never fully featured enough to be used widely. Microsoft restricted you to a 50GB monthly data limit, and the VPN automatically connected to a local region making it impossible to work around the geo restrictions people often use VPNs for.The removal of the VPN benefit in Microsoft 365 comes just weeks after Microsoft raised subscription prices for the first time in 12 years. Microsoft has bundled Office AI features into Microsoft 365 and hiked prices by an extra $3 month, but you can downgrade to a classic plan that maintains the existing price for Personal or Family subscriptions without the added AI features.

For 32 years, Terry Pratchetts Discworld novels were a regular feature in bestseller lists, and dominated the science-fiction and fantasy section of the bookshop. Writing at a time when fantasy literature was considered less than other genres, and comic fantasy even less than that, Sir Terry flew the flag for anyone who enjoyed letting their imagination run wild.But his books were more than that, for they also featured biting social satire and a deeply felt anger at social injustice. Sir Pterry (as he was affectionately known by fans) was a keen observer of the world around him, and had a thorough understanding of human nature and a knack for getting right to the core of an issue. The Samuel Vimes Boots Theory of Socioeconomic Unfairness, featured in the 1993 Discworld novel Men At Arms, has even been used as a basis for research by the UKs Office for National Statistics. (The theory is that, because cheaper and poorer quality goods like boots do not last as long, poor people end up spending far more money over time on the same thing than rich people who can afford to buy one really good pair of boots that lasts for years and still have wet feet).There are 41 books in the Discworld series, which may seem a bit overwhelming to a newcomer. Anyone wanting to try the series out for the first time will also be bombarded with advice on which book to start with, which will hardly ever be the first book in the series the first two Discworld novels are broad spoofs of 1970s sword n sorcery fantasy novels that have not, themselves, been especially popular for years now. So here we present our own personal ranking of all 41 Discworld books, from good to great. Newcomers to the series can make their own minds up which book appeals most as a starting-point, while long-time fans can argue about all the myriad ways we got the list wrong in the comments. Go forth and debate!This list ranks the 41 main Discworld novels that includes all the Young Adult novels and the two graphic novels (Eric and The Last Hero) but not other tie-in works. Underneath each title we have noted which sub-series the book falls into each Discworld novel stands alone as a complete story, but as Pratchett returned to certain characters in different books over the years, several sub-series grew out of the overall series. Exactly how these are labelled varies slightly, but we have labelled them City Watch (books about the Ankh-Morpork City Watch); Death (books featuring Death in a main role, alongside various other family members); Witches (books about the Lancre witches); Tiffany Aching (Young Adult books about the young witch Tiffany Aching); Moist von Lipwig (books with Moist as the protagonist); Rincewind (books with Rincewind as the protagonist); Wizards (books featuring the faculty of Unseen University, who always share the story with someone else and never have a book all to themselves), and Standalone (none of the above).41. Raising Steam (2013)Moist von LipwigTheres no such thing as a bad Discworld novel, but something has to go at the bottom, and this is it. Raising Steam was the last Discworld novel published during Sir Pterrys lifetime, inspired mainly by his own great love of trains. The story follows the invention of steam trains on the Discworld, and the building of a great railway connecting Ankh-Morpork, Quirm, and Uberwald.From 1999s The Fifth Elephant onwards, the Discworld started to evolve out of the medieval setting of the first 23 books at quite a pace, getting through an entire industrial revolution in the space of a few years. This book is the culmination of that development, connecting the Discworld in a way it had never been connected before. Unfortunately, for any readers who do not love steam engines quite as much as Pratchett did, the first two thirds of the book are a bit of a slog. But it is a nice farewell to many of the Discs most beloved characters all the same.40. Sourcery (1988)RincewindRincewind, the cowardly wizard who cant spell, was the Discworlds very first protagonist. Since Pratchetts writing got better with time (at least until his work was tragically affected by the early onset Alzheimers disease that took his life in 2015), that inevitably means that many of the books starring Rincewind are down towards the bottom of this list.Sourcery, the story of Coin the sorcerer (eighth son of an eighth son of an eighth son, a wizard squared) is a direct sequel to the first two Discworld books, but it lacks the deeper characterisation that Pratchett had already started to introduce in books three (Equal Rites) and four (Mort) respectively. As such, Sourcery feels like a throwback to the broader, more chaotic tone of the first two books in the series, but without their flair.39. The Colour of Magic (1983)RincewindJoin our mailing listGet the best of Den of Geek delivered right to your inbox!The main thing anyone who has ever asked a Discworld fan about the series will know is that no newcomer should start with the first book, which follows the misadventures of the cowardly polyglot wizard Rincewind and his tourist employer Twoflower. This bit of advice is often surprising and extremely frustrating for anyone who is used to reading series in order.There is a good reason for this advice, though, because The Colour of Magic, The Light Fantastic, and Sourcery (books one, two, and five) simply do not belong to the same series as everything else. The humour is broad, the plot is sketchy, and most of the characters except for Rincewind himself are unrecognisable Death and the Patrician of Ankh-Morpork, beloved characters from later books, behave very differently in this story. Read it as a curiosity after youve read all the other books, maybe. It only comes just ahead of Sourcery because without it, none of the rest of the Discworld series would exist.38. The Light Fantastic (1986)RincewindThe highest ranked of those three odd-one-out books, The Light Fantastic has a bit more of a developed plot than the other two. It features the cutthroat early political shenanigans at Unseen University, which would be phased out in later books, as well as a major plot development for Rincewind, who has one of the eight most powerful spells in the world lodged in his brain.This is also the book that introduced Cohen the Barbarian, an elderly barbarian who is very good at not dying. Cohen, like Rincewind himself, is a character who remains consistent even as he is given a bit more depth in later books, and he is one of the most fun aspects of the Discworlds early focus on spoofing fantasy literature.37. Making Money (2007)Moist von LipwigMaking Money is another late book that focuses primarily on the introduction of a specific new technology or custom to the Discworld as part of the ongoing industrial revolution; in this case, its paper money.While many (not all) fans would probably agree that numbers 41-38 on this list are among the weaker entries in the Discworld series, from this point on, all bets are off. Every book we list, wherever it is placed, will be a favourite or a least favourite for lots of people. (And yes, we know there are some of you out there whose favourite will be Raising Steam or Sourcery too). All we can do is explain why weve placed any individual book where it is. In this case, Making Money shares the flaws of some of the later Discworld novels a bit too much focus on the introduction of the New Thing (paper money) somewhat at the expense of plot and character, and the social commentary becoming a bit more preachy and on the nose.36. The Truth (2000)StandaloneYou might have expected us to place this higher, given that a lot of it is a satire of journalists and journalism. The book follows the invention of moveable type on the Discworld, and the opening of the Discs first newspaper.Theres nothing really wrong with The Truth. Its low placement is down to two main factors. One is that William de Worde, while likeable enough, is not one of Pratchetts most memorable or interesting main characters, which may be why Sir Pterry only ever mentioned him briefly after this book, despite the fact that he occupied a major and very visible job in the city of Ankh-Morpork. The other is that this is a book you get a lot more out of if you get the references. All the Discworld books are full of references to all sorts of things, from the poetry of Homer to the movies of Quentin Tarantino, but we think the very strongest in the series are those that can be enjoyed and appreciated whether you get the references or not.35. The Amazing Maurice and His Educated Rodents (2001)StandaloneThe first Young Adult Discworld novel, this is a twist on the story of the Pied Piper of Hamelin, as a very clever cat runs a con involving a young boy called Keith who plays the pipe, and a lot of talking rats.Pratchett won his first major award (the Carnegie Medal) for this one, so once again, it is a very good book. It also shares a bit of the feel of some of Pratchetts non-Discworld books, like The Carpet People or Truckers, which is no bad thing. But this is a ranking, and we find Tiffany Aching to be a stronger and more likeable YA protagonist. If you really enjoy stories about con-men, move this higher up the list.34. Snuff (2011)City WatchIt will be no surprise by now that the last of the City Watch books is the lowest ranked. This story takes Sam Vimes out of Ankh-Morpork and away from most of the rest of the City Watch characters and places him in the countryside, which makes it a slightly strange note for this sub-series to end on. It also focuses primarily on the plot thread about the evils of racism towards goblins that was introduced in the previous book (Unseen Academicals) which is a worthy message, but both depressing and, once again, a bit on the nose.There is still plenty to enjoy here, though the scenes which poke gentle fun at Jane Austen novels are especially fun and Vimes young sons obsession with poo will surely ring true for anyone who has spent a substantial amount of time around small children.33. I Shall Wear Midnight (2010)Tiffany AchingThe only one of the eleven books about Discworld witches to tell a story inspired by the horror of the real life witch trials of early modern Europe, this book is dark. The second chapter in particular could do with a content warning on it, especially considering this book is aimed at teens and the protagonist was only nine years old in her first appearance (though she is sixteen in this story), meaning some really quite young children might end up reading this.The best thing about this, the 38th Discworld novel, is that it brought back Eskarina Smith, Tiffanys forebear, who had not been seen or heard from since the third book, Equal Rites, published 23 years earlier. For some of us older fans, that was a really special moment.32. The Last Continent (1998)Rincewind/WizardsRincewind must bring the rains back to the desert continent of XXXX (Fourecks), and the Faculty of Unseen University need him to help them cure the Librarian of a magical flu.As the Discworld books moved on from their early phases, Pratchett stopped having the Archchancellors of Unseen University murder each other all the time and created a loveable and very funny set of consistent characters who made up the Faculty of Unseen University, headed by Archchancellor Ridcully. They never got their own book, possibly because only Ridcully would have had enough depth of character to really carry a story, but appeared in the B plot of other sub-series; in this case they make a very welcome addition to the last full length novel to feature Rincewind as its main protagonist.This is the lowest ranked of their books, though, because it largely consists of jokes about Australia based on the perception of that country by British people. A lot of the middle Discworld books do something similar, taking a country or theme and poking affectionate fun at it, but some of the others hang that on a stronger plot than this one does.31. Thief of Time (2001)DeathThe Auditors of Reality are trying to bring about the Apocalypse by having a supernaturally skilled watchmaker build a clock that will stop time and shatter history, so Death sends his granddaughter Susan to stop them while he does his job gathering together the Five Horsemen of the Apocalypse.Ironically for a book about time and continuity, this ended up representing several lasts Deaths last appearance as a main character, Susans last appearance at all, and sadly the last book to feature one of Josh Kirbys iconic cover illustrations, as he passed away in October 2001. The plot is messier than the other Death books, but the best thing about this one is that it provides an in-universe explanation for all the continuity differences (we wont call them errors, as Pratchett was not initially aiming to build a coherent universe in the first place) and character changes over the course of the books.30. The Wee Free Men (2003)Tiffany AchingThe first of the Tiffany Aching books also introduces her regular companions, the titular Wee Free Men, or the Nac Mac Feegle. The Chalk, a downland area downriver from Lancre (inspired by Pratchetts own home in Wiltshire) is vulnerable to attack from Elves because it has no witches to protect it, but nine-year old Tiffany Aching has a lot of magical potential and some formidable allies.How much you enjoy this book will depend partly on your own personal enthusiasm/tolerance for the titular wee free men, their typed-out Scottish accents, and tendency to embody a lot of stereotypes about Scotland. This also marks the shift from books about the Lancre witches to books about Tiffany Aching, many of which are very good indeed, but it is a shame they came at the expense of Nanny Ogg, Magrat, and Agnes Nitt (Granny Weatherwax continues to feature quite a bit later, thankfully).29. Unseen Academicals (2009)Standalone/WizardsUnseen Academicals brings the game of football to the Disc, and it gets right what Making Money and Raising Steam get wrong it focuses on characters and story, without getting lost in the basic development of the New Thing, and it is accessible and interesting whether the reader personally enjoys football or not. This book also features the last appearance of Rincewind in a small role, and could have been a suitable final novel for the series if necessary.The most compelling thing about Unseen Academicals is its depiction of a particular part of Ankh-Morpork society, where people are not so poor that they are begging on the street, but where the poverty is hidden behind closed doors and washed steps, and anyone trying to leave the street is looked down on. The whole feel of the society painted here is so incredibly real. We had seen hints of this part of Ankh-Morpork before in Sam Vimes background, but here we see it brought to life and follow younger characters who are still living in that world.28. Interesting Times (1994)RincewindLike The Last Continent, Interesting Times places Rincewind in an unfamiliar part of the Disc and features a lot of jokes about (the British perception of) another country and another continent. In this case, that country in China, as Rincewind once again meets up with Cohen the Barbarian, who is leading his Silver Horde of elderly barbarians plus one teacher, Ronald Saveloy in an attempt at a coup detat of the mysterious, walled-up Agatean Empire on the Counterweight Continent.This has a bit more weight (har har) to it than The Last Continent, telling a story about power and oppression and revolution. It also features the Faculty of Unseen University, which is always nice, though in a more minor role than some of their other appearances.27. Equal Rites (1987)WitchesThe third Discworld novel is really the beginning of the Discworld proper. It almost perfectly bridges the gap between what the Discworld was when it started (represented by Book Two, The Light Fantastic) and what it became (represented by Book Four, Mort). It is the predecessor of all the books featuring witches, including the Tiffany Aching books, and it introduces one of the Discs most beloved characters, Granny Weatherwax.Following the journey of young Eskarina Smith, a female wizard trying to gain admittance to the all-male wizards institution, Unseen University, this story starts to feature the deeper characterisation, the social justice themes, and the more fleshed-out world of the Disc that would come to define the series.26. Faust Eric (1990)RincewindThe best two books featuring Rincewind are the two Discworld graphic novels. Although Faust Eric was also published in a more text-heavy format, it is better read in the illustrated version with richly detailed illustrations by Josh Kirby, as intended (and as we have learned from experience buy it in a hard copy, not the ebook!).As is clear from the title, this is one of only two Discworld novels that primarily pastiche a specific prior work (the other is Maskerade). The handy thing about Christopher Marlowes famous 16th century play Dr Faustus, though, is that it incorporates lot of other targets for satire, including Classical mythology around the Trojan War and a vision of hell like that of Dante. This novel certainly does not feature deep characterisation or social commentary, but as a broad pastiche and a fun romp through Discworld legend, it does its job very well more effectively, we feel, than earlier, similar instalments.25. Thud! (2005)City WatchSpeciesist tensions between trolls and dwarfs are boiling over in Ankh-Morpork around the anniversary of the Battle of Koom Valley, a conflict both sides are intent on memorialising without anyone actually remembering what happened.The last two of the eight City Watch books focus on lead character Samuel Vimes almost to the exclusion of everybody else, which is a shame, as they were very good ensemble pieces. His story here is also bound to make real parents everywhere feel inadequate as Vimes moves heaven and Disc to make sure he is at home to read his son Young Sam his bedtime story at 6pm every single night. But that plot thread also gave us the wonderful childrens picture book Wheres My Cow? (we know young children who love this book even having not yet read any other Discworld, what with still being a toddler) and the climax, while melodramatic, is undeniably moving.24. Carpe Jugulum (1998)WitchesThe sub-series featuring the Lancre witches is noticeably clustered around the middle of this list. Published over ten years between 1988 (Wyrd Sisters) and 1998 (Carpe Jugulum), these novels appeared during something of a golden age for the Discworld, as the writing and characters developed. Not all of them are up there with the very best of the Discworld, but none of them are particularly weak either.Carpe Jugulum, the story of a family of vampires managing to get themselves invited into Lancre for the christening of Magrats eldest child, features the slightly weaker version of the coven (we like Agnes/Perdita Nitt a lot, but she doesnt balance Granny and Nanny quite as well as Magrat did) and a lot of it is told from the likeable but weedy Mightily Oats and features a fairly broad pastiche of certain sections of Christianity. But it is still a great read nonetheless.23. Going Postal (2004)Moist von LipwigIn Moist von Lipwigs first appearance, he is saved from execution by the Patrician, who promises him his life on the proviso that he must revitalise the ancient Ankh-Morpork Post Office in the face of increasing competition from the Clacks, the telegram-like system run using semaphore towers that began the whole industrial revolution development back in The Fifth Elephant.The sub-series featuring Moist von Lipwig as the lead character is both the shortest (three books) and the last to be introduced. All of Moists stories reflect Pratchetts concerns, interests, and preferred themes in the later books, especially the bringing of the industrial revolution to the Discworld, and here postage stamps are introduced for the first time. Since Moist is primarily a conman, move this book up or down your own ranking depending on your personal fondness for stories about conmen.WitchesThe third witches book overall and the second to focus on the Lancre witches coven, Witches Abroad sees our heroines literally travel abroad, as they journey to far-off Genua to prevent Magrats new goddaughter Emberella from marrying a prince something her other fairy godmother Lilith is determined to bring about.This story notably features one of very few direct references in the series to the father of fantasy himself, Tolkien, as a very Gollum-like creature briefly appears to hiss at the witches that itsss my birthday. The story further mashes up lots of references to European fairy tales along with Haitian Vodou, as well as Haitian Vodou as depicted in the James Bond films (not quite the same thing!). Its very good, but suffers a little bit from losing something of its effectiveness if youre not familiar with the material its spoofing.21. The Last Hero (2001)RincewindThe other illustrated Discworld novel, this time with illustrations by Paul Kidby, and another one to make sure to get in hard copy. This story is more melancholic and much more character-driven than Faust Eric, and gives us our most sustained close-up look at the frequently-mentioned gods of the Discworld, complete with gorgeous visuals.Although Carrot Ironfoundersson of the City Watch and Leonard of Quirm (the Discs answer to Leonardo da Vinci) also play major roles, this story belongs to Rincewind and especially and above all to Cohen the Barbarian; it is Rincewinds last leading role and Cohen and the Silver Hordes last appearance. An epic confrontation between men and gods complete with an unnamed singer to pass the story down the generations, it is a fitting swansong for a great hero.20. Monstrous Regiment (2003)StandaloneOpinions vary on the quality of the last primarily standalone novel in the series (as Unseen Academicals features the Wizards). The story follows an infantry regiment in the little-seen country of Borogravia, who are embroiled in a permanent state of religious war. Young Polly Perks disguises herself as a boy so she can join the all-male army and find her brother, and anyone who is familiar with the origin of the title will be able to guess the books major twist, though we wont spoil it for those not in the know.The novel mashes up references to lots of historic wars, from the Crusades to the First and Second World Wars, and is an entertaining take on a brothers-in-arms style war story. How you feel about the book will largely depend on how you feel about its central conceit; we rather like it.19. Lords and Ladies (1992)WitchesAnother outing for the Lancre witches, this is the book in which Magrat is married off and her replacement, Agnes, is introduced. Magrat is about to become the Queen of Lancre, which is causing her no small amount of concern, and Granny Weatherwaxs old boyfriend has come to town for the wedding one Archchancellor Mustrum Ridcully of Unseen University.The only book after Equal Rites to put witches and wizards together, this is also our introduction to the malevolent force that is the Discworlds Elves. It is the Elves that carry this story, as Pratchetts dark take on them, rooted in folklore and providing a great counterpoint to Tolkiens very different version years before the arrival of Susanna Clarkes Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell, is compelling and frightening in equal measure. Youll never go near a stone circle again!18. The Fifth Elephant (1999)City WatchAn ancient Dwarven artefact, the Scone of Stone, has been stolen, so Sam Vimes is sent to Uberwald to recover it. Meanwhile, Angua is on her way to Uberwald already, to confront her rather wild family, with her boyfriend Carrot uncharacteristically neglecting his duty to follow after her.This was the novel that changed the Discworld forever with the introduction of the Clacks. The most interesting character in this story, though, is Carrot. When Carrot was introduced in Guards! Guards! much of the story was told from his point of view, but as time went on and he came to understand his own place in the world, he was forced to become a bit more tactical, and the reader started to see less of what he is really thinking. His reminder to the Watchmen of the oath they took at the end of this story is one of his last major scenes before the rest of the Watch fade into the background of the stories in comparison to Vimes, and it is quite powerful.17. Maskerade (1995)WitchesAgnes Nitt and her inner voice, Perdita, have gone to Ankh-Morpork to seek their fortune at the Opera House. But Nanny Ogg knows that she and Granny need Agnes to complete their coven now that Magrat has left it, and someone is murdering people backstage.The biggest weakness in this book is, of course, that it is a pastiche of a very specific story; The Phantom of the Opera (in all its forms). Inevitably, it will be a richer and funnier read for anyone familiar with that story, and with both opera and musical theatre more broadly. But it ranks fairly highly on this list because even if you dont know the original story, there is a murder mystery at the heart of the book that works on its own terms. Pratchett was really rather good at crafting a compelling and twisty mystery, and some of his best Discworld stories were mystery stories.16. The Shepherds Crown (2015)Tiffany AchingThe Shepherds Crown is a difficult book to rate or rank. It is the very last Discworld novel, published after Pratchetts death in 2015, and it opens up with the death of a major recurring character, which we are about to spoil, so look away now if you dont want to know.By the time the Discworld had been running for 23 years and 40 novels, two characters had emerged as its joint backbone; both introduced relatively early in the series and both appearing consistently in new releases right up to the end. They are Sam Vimes and Granny Weatherwax. The death of Granny Weatherwax feels like the death of the Discworld itself, especially coming as it did after the death of its creator. The rest of the book is almost a blur in comparison; but this shocking farewell ended up providing a suitable ending for the series.15. Wintersmith (2006)Tiffany AchingTiffany Aching makes the mistake of joining the Dark Morris, a dance first mentioned year earlier in Reaper Man, and the Wintersmith falls in love with her.While there are other Tiffany Aching books that are more talked about, this story is especially effective for its evocative depiction of winter in the countryside. It combines elements of all the various wintery fantasies that have come before it, but notably makes the creator of winter masculine, like the folkloric Jack Frost, rather than feminine, like the witch-queens of Hans Christian Anderson or CS Lewis stories. It also gains a point for being the only Discworld book to have it own soundtrack, by English folk band Steeleye Span.14. Moving Pictures (1990)Standalone/WizardsOn a handful of occasions between this book and The Fifth Elephant, technologies or other elements of our own modern world broke through to the Discworld and took hold there for a while, before being pushed back into the proverbial closet by some kind of plot mechanism. The two most prominent examples are the rock music in Soul Music, and this book, in which the Guild of Alchemists manage to invent cinema.Not only is this a really fun pastiche of silent era Hollywood, it also introduces Archchancellor Ridcully and the Faculty of Unseen University for the first time (some may have technically appeared in Sourcery but were rather differently characterised, and since most are only known by their title and not their names, they might have been different people anyway). The series is much richer for having them.13. Soul Music (1994)DeathA new sound known as Music With Rocks In takes the Disc by storm. Meanwhile, Deaths granddaughter Susan is forced to take over the family business when her grandfather goes AWOL again.The other major example of the Disc briefly embracing a modern trend, though it is also the fount of numerous continuity differences as Pratchett did not always pay attention to the fact the whole thing was supposed to have been written out of history (but see Thief of Time for the explanation). The Wizards appear briefly in this one as well, and like Moving Pictures, it is a very funny ride through a fast-paced story with likeable characters Susan and Imp Y Celyn, or Bud of the Holly at its heart.12. Mort (1987)DeathDeath, looking for a potential husband for his daughter Ysabell, hires an apprentice called Mort but Mort, inevitably, falls for one of his intended targets.This is one of the books most often cited as a good place for new readers to start. It is very much the first book that really represents what the Discworld would become, telling an accessible but powerful story featuring memorable characters. It also introduces us properly to Death, who would appear in at least a cameo role in all but two of the Discworld novels (The Wee Free Men and Snuff are the exceptions, and they are the poorer for it). Pratchetts visualisation of Deaths home and family life is a thing of gothic beauty. There are other good starting-points too, but this is one of the best.11. Jingo (1997)City WatchThe other Discworld war novel, pre-dating Monstrous Regiment. After a shocking assassination attempt in the heart of the city, Ankh-Morpork is poised to go to war with Klatch. Vimes, however, senses that something is not right, and sets off on a journey to Klatch himself, along with some of his closest colleagues in the Watch, to get to the bottom of the conspiracy and put a stop to the war.Theres a whole mix of things going on here, including a mysterious mythical island, social commentary on racism and (of course) jingoism, a war story that references everything from Julius Caesar to Lawrence of Arabia via Ozymandias, and Nobby in drag for the first (not the last) time. But the scene towards the climax when Vimes pocket dis-organizer, which has somehow got stuck down the wrong leg of the Trousers of Time, reads out to him what would have happened if he had made one different decision, is genuinely chilling.10. A Hat Full of Sky (2004)Tiffany AchingOn her way to meet her new boss, who will continue her training as an apprentice witch, Tiffany Aching is attacked by a hiver, an evil creature that takes over her mind.Tiffany Achings second appearance really builds her character as she gets a little bit older, and is forced to confront her own darkest qualities. This book also features a household ghost and a very different type of witch trials. It is almost a spiritual successor to the very first witches book, Equal Rites, as Granny Weatherwax ends up performing a mentor role for Tiffany just as she did for Eskarina Smith, which leads nicely into the later I Shall Wear Midnight.9. Feet of Clay (1996)City WatchThere is (another) conspiracy against the Patrician afoot and he is slowly being poisoned, a killer is at loose in the city, and Nobby Nobbs might be an earl. Luckily Vimes and the City Watch are on the case.We make no apologies for the dominance of the City Watch series at the top of this list. The Watch books combine some of the strongest features of the best Discworld novels together; a varied and likeable ensemble cast of characters, a well-plotted murder mystery with a clever reveal, and just a hint of absurd genius in this case, the existence by the end of the novel of a ceramic atheist, much to the frustration of the Discs lightening-trigger-finger-happy gods.8. Guards! Guards! (1989)City WatchThe first City Watch book, and another one frequently cited as a good starting-point for new readers. A mysterious group of hooded conspirators are trying to summon a dragon, and it is up to the four members of the neglected Ankh-Morpork Night Watch to stop them.The core quartet of disillusioned alcoholic Sam Vimes, old hand Fred Colon, almost-human Nobby Nobbs and young and nave Carrot Ironfoundersson are one of the strongest groups in the Discworld series. Here, they carry a really fun story involving a hilarious pastiche of secretive societies, the introduction of adorable Discworld pets the swamp dragons, and some fun with fantasy tropes broad enough that anyone with even a passing knowledge of the genre will know what Pratchett is getting at. If you like urban fantasy and a bit of a mystery to solve, then this is indeed the best place to start.7. Hogfather (1996)Death/WizardsThe Auditors of Reality hire Assassins in an attempt to kill the Discs answer to Father Christmas, the Hogfather, leading to a lot of extra belief sloshing around and causing chaos. Death temporarily takes over the Hogfathers duties while Susan goes after the Assassins.The great strength of this book is that the thing it pastiches is Western Christmas tradition, so while British readers might get the most out of it, many readers from around the world will have some level of familiarity with and understanding of the things it is poking fun at. The book features brilliant comic highlights like Bilious the Oh God of Hangovers (because when people invoke him, they say Oh god!) and Death trying to sound like the Hogfather (HO HO HO) alongside incredibly poignant moments like Deaths encounter with the Little Match Girl. One to re-read every winter.6. Wyrd Sisters (1988)WitchesWhen the King of Lancre is murdered, while his ghost tries to work out how he can move on to a more satisfying afterlife, the local witches coven consisting of Granny Weatherwax, Nanny Ogg, and Magrat Garlick are left to protect his baby son and make sure the right person inherits the throne.Wyrd Sisters is largely a pastiche of Hamlet and Macbeth mashed up together, along with some swipes at theatre in general. Its fair to say that readers who know the plays will get a bit more out of the humour, but the story is strong enough that it works well even for anyone who does not know the source material. Partly this is because the contrasting characters of stern Granny, earthy Nanny, and ethereal Magrat contrast and complement each other so well. There are also some clever twists near the end that we wont spoil.5. Men at Arms (1993)City WatchWhile the presence of the long-lost heir to the throne of Ankh-Morpork may have initially escaped the notice of the heir himself, a disgruntled Assassin has worked it out, and is plotting against the Patrician on the heirs behalf. Meanwhile, the Night Watch has been ordered to expand its members to include some of the non-human-male residents of Ankh-Morpork, including a dwarf, a troll, and another one.Although there is one City Watch book ranked even higher than this one, that one has a somewhat different format. This is the classic City Watch or Night Watch, as they still are here at its height. Like Feet of Clay, this features a really well-plotted murder mystery alongside solid character development for the Watch. It pips Feet of Clay by a few rankings, though, because of an emotionally powerful buddy-cop-story that develops throughout the novel between Detritus the troll and Cuddy the dwarf.4. Pyramids (1989)StandalonePrince Teppic, having just finished his elite education at the Guild of Assassins, inherits the throne of the kingdom of Djelibeybi, a tiny, narrow river kingdom squeezed into the desert between Tsort (Discworlds Troy) and Ephebe (Ancient Greece) that is a bit obsessed with building huge pyramid-shaped tombs for their dead kings.This can be a bit of a love-it-or-hate-it book, and we concede that it is funniest if you are familiar with two things it lovingly makes fun of the British driving test (that one is probably missed by a lot of international readers) and Mummy movies (which are probably better generally known). But we would hazard to say that the story works anyway. It is one of the most satisfyingly plotted Discworld stories, featuring a memorable cast of characters and introducing some key ideas and places in a tale that can be enjoyed simply for itself, no sequels or prequels needed. We like it a lot.3. Reaper Man (1991)Death/WizardsDeath is fired by the Auditors of Reality, and while they struggle to fill his role, the absence of Death inadvertently brings about a zombie apocalypse.To get a very minor criticism out of the way first it is not clear how an absence of Death would create shopping malls, other than Pterry wanted to have a classic zombie movie scene. That aside, this is a beautiful and poignant exploration of the nature of Death, in all senses of the word. Written years before Sir Terry became a passionate campaigner on the subject of assisted dying, this is the only story in which Death (the character) takes centre stage without any of his assorted family members, and he holds the attention perfectly. The Wizards subplot, in only their second appearance, lifts the tone, but it is Death who carries the book.2. Small Gods (1992)StandaloneDiscworld gods need belief to sustain them, but the Great God Om is down to only one believer, as a result of which he has become trapped in the form of a small tortoise. Only Brutha, his one true disciple who indeed, believes in a better Om than Om actually is can save both him and the people of Omnia, who are suffering under an organised theocracy that claims to follow Om, but cannot hear him.Pratchetts most philosophical work, this story is clearly rooted in his own atheist worldview, but in a way that is less preachy and less alienating to non-atheist readers than you might expect. Brutha has true faith, even if Om does not entirely deserve it, and the difference between Bruthas essential goodness and the corruption of the Omnian Quisition and their torture chambers are key to the story, which also touches on various bits of Greek philosophy by including some Ephebian characters from Pyramids. The only real downside to this book is that it seriously messed up readers attempts to produce a coherent Discworld timeline.1. Night Watch (2002)City WatchSam Vimes travels back in time in pursuit of a killer and is forced to live through a traumatic series of events from his youth again.Picking a single Discworld book to sit at number one will always be controversial. Just about any of them will be put in this spot by someone. But we have chosen Night Watch as the perfect combination of humour, pastiche (of revolutionary tales including Les Misrables), character depth and development (we see how Vimes ended up the broken mess he was at the beginning of Guards! Guards!) and tragedy. Although, like the weaker later instalments, this books centres Vimes at the expense of the other City Watch characters, it does not isolate him. Rather, it takes him back to his grungy Night Watch roots, before the team became successful and the Watch was invigorated, and gives him a new ensemble of mixed familiar-but-younger and new faces to join.Night Watch is different from the rest of the Discworld series. It has fewer gags of the broad, laugh-out-loud variety, and it is darker in tone. But those things suit the story, and the darkness was always there in Vimes and Colons background (and is less potentially inappropriate than in the Young Adult Tiffany Aching series). It would also be a terrible starting-point for a newcomer, as it plays on what the reader is expected to know of Ankh-Morpork and of the characters who live there. Perhaps Pyramids or Wyrd Sisters might be a better reflection, tonally and thematically, of the series as a whole. But Pratchett once commented, long before writing Night Watch, that he had sometimes been accused of literature. If we are to point to any of his books as his greatest work of literature, then this is it.

The regeneration project will demolish the failing 1990s Galleries shopping centre in Bristols Broadmead quarter, redeveloping the site to create a sustainable urban quarter that will stand the test of time.AHMMs mixed-use masterplan for the 2.5ha site includes up to 450 homes (minimum 20 per cent affordable), 750 student housing units, 40,000m of office space, 6,000m of restaurants and bars, hotel space and community and cultural uses. It also contains new leisure space, an exhibition hall, 0.6ha of new open public space and a public hub with bike parking and charging facilities.Major features of the masterplan, submitted in May 2024, include a 22-storey residential tower at the junction of Union Street and Newgate and an energy centre connecting to the planned Bristol heat network. Aside from the tower, new buildings broadly range from 6 to 13 storeys.Advertisement Source:AHMMAHMMs proposed redevelopment of Bristol Broadmead/ The Galleries: View from Merchant StreetThe proposal was submitted last May for Bristol-based developer Deeley Freed and real estate investment manager La Salle.The project also involves minor remediation works to the Grade II*-listed Merchant Taylors Almshouses one of Bristols earliest brick buildings, dating back to 1701 as well as the Grade II-listed Greyhound hotel, both of which sit within the regeneration site.Bristol City Councils planning committee unanimously approved a hybrid planning application for the project on Wednesday evening (29 January), permitting full demolition of existing buildings on the site and outline planning permission for its phased redevelopment.The permission is subject to Section 106 contributions to the value of 5.5 million from the applicant.The existing 1991 Galleries shopping centre incorporates three enclosed storeys of shops and a four-storey car park with 1,007 car parking spaces. But Bristol planning officers described it as a failing and deficient retail asset with limited architectural merit' and increasing vacancy rates, saying it was a barrier to regeneration in Broadmead.AdvertisementThe officers said AHMMs plans would improve the vitality, vibrancy and diversity of uses within the primary shopping area in Bristol, as well as making a significant contribution to housing trajectory targets. Source:AHMMAHMMs proposed redevelopment of Bristol Broadmead/ The Galleries: AxoThe proposals have been in the pipeline since at least 2020, and have undergone extensive pre-application engagement with Bristol City Council and other statutory consultees.Changes to the proposal following various consultations include significant reductions in height, massing and positioning of buildings, and improved quality and character of the public realm, according to Bristols planning department.There were 19 objections to the application, including from groups such as the Bristol Civic Society and the Georgian Group, which raised concerns over the scale of the development and the significant carbon emissions it would create including the major release of embodied carbon from the existing building.Objectors also raised fears about added strain on healthcare facilities and congestion in Bristol city centre and the impact on heritage buildings (including the almshouses) and the neighbouring Castle Park. Source:AHMM AHMMs proposed redevelopment of Bristol Broadmead/ The Galleries: View from Castle ParkBut, recommending the scheme for approval, Bristol planning officers concluded that its significant public benefits outweighed any harm caused.In a design and access statement, AHMM said the regeneration scheme would deliver robust, quality public realm spaces fit for the 21st century, which would enhance engagement and connection with the city.The practice said the scheme had been shaped by a number of significant existing physical constraints, including the existing basement and structure, which will be retained, and heritage assets which will be incorporated and celebrated.AHMM director Stephen Taylor said: A unanimous vote at planning committee is a fantastic endorsement for the Galleries redevelopment project. This decision illustrates the citys support for the much-needed redevelopment of the Broadmead area and sends a positive message that Bristol is open for business.The existing multistorey car park and inward-facing shopping centre was inflexibly designed for single use and is therefore unable to support the radical change that is needed to create a new neighbourhood.We have retained the ground floor, basement, and substructure to make carbon savings where possible, and from that we have created a new, truly mixed-use scheme, that will revitalise the area and bring long-term benefits to the city.

Its the tenants favourite block, says Lisa Park, Guinness Homes estate manager, as we approach the striped-brick flank of Bulrush Court across the small public space adjacent to it. Designed by Pitman Tozer Architects, its the latest addition to the planned 965-unit Leaside Lock development in Tower Hamlets, masterplanned by Assael and developed by the Guinness Partnership together with Danescroft, which managed delivery of the scheme.Pitman Tozers connection with the site goes back to 2016-18 when, working with BPTW, it secured planning consent on it for 450 homes for developer Lindhill. After the site was sold to Guinness in 2018, the practice was retained to redesign this one block as 100 per cent affordable housing.The development sits to the north of Bromley-by-Bow station, next to where the north-south A12 Blackwall Tunnel approach crosses TfLs east-west District tube line. To the north-east it is bounded by the River Lea hence the developments name on its way to disgorge into the Thames further south at Limehouse.AdvertisementThe scheme is part of the Bromley-by-Bow South masterplan, one of the last chunks of land developed under the remit of the London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC) set up in the aftermath of the 2012 Olympic Games to oversee the development of a swathe of land dropping south from the Olympic Park along the River Lea. Previously occupied by light industry, this has gradually been displaced and redeveloped primarily for housing, together with commercial and retail space with a mix, too, of retrofitted historic industrial buildings, such as the recent Three Mills Studios development by Gort Scott, which sits nearby.The 500-unit first phase of the Leaside Lock scheme consisted of five linked blocks designed by Assael, varying in height between nine and 28 storeys, which effectively hug the edges of the site and deal with the challenging urban conditions of adjacent road and railway by placing the housing primarily build-to-rent and shared ownership units above a plinth of commercial and retail space.These blocks corral and shelter a small protected piazza between them, which, still rather barren, has been carefully if minimally landscaped with high-quality finishes. It neatly incorporates services, such as an integrated below-level garbage collection system embedded in its periphery. The square creates a much-needed centre of gravity to the scheme in what is a relatively harsh urban environment.The northern side of this square is now enclosed by the new Pitman Tozer-designed block, which accommodates at one end a generously proportioned, solidly fitted-out concierges office that will serve the whole scheme. The block, phase two of the development, provides 144 affordable and social-rent units arranged over seven to nine storeys, which contributes to the almost 50 per cent affordable unit mix planned across the whole site. Phase three will see a series of blocks built out to the north-east along a route leading to the River Lea towpath.Compared with the more faceted forms of the earlier blocks by Assael, with their variegated green and pink metal cladding, the new blocks brick form appears more orthogonal and sober, an impression relieved by its window lines being picked out in a yellower brick and small horizontal striations between openings that lend it a rather mid-century look.AdvertisementThe retro feel increases to the west. Here, a courtyard scoops in, revealing the block to be U-shaped in footprint, its inner brick corners curved and a series of boldly expressed curve-cornered brick-clad balconies continuing the language and horizontal feel of the whole. Im pleased we managed to keep the curved corners; I thought they would be the first things to be cut with value engineering, says Luke Tozer, one of the founding directors of Pitman Tozer Architects.The unexpected soft, bullnosed roundedness weirdly chimes with the blocks rather rustic name, Bulrush Court although the latter was clearly chosen as a piece of nature-washing marketing, a reference to the nearby river.The overall effect, with its rounded-off, relatively low-slung form, suggests Moderne Art Deco as though the block is some fragment left over from a 1930s development. Tozer confirms it is a purposeful echo: We looked at Florin Court as a model. This mansion block, designed by Guy Morgan and Partners in 1936, faces onto Charterhouse Square in Clerkenwell and gained fleeting fame from its appearance in the opening credits of ITVs long-running Poirot series as the supposed London home of Agatha Christies fictional detective.In fact Bulrush Court is the latest iteration in a series of blocks Pitman Tozer has designed using the mid-rise mansion block as a model. Were very interested in how it provides density but on a relatively human scale, says Tozer. Previous examples by the practice include two schemes for Peabody which, each in its own way, humanised notably difficult sites. The 2014 Mint Street 67-unit block in Bethnal Green has an elegantly curved, grey brick and mint-green tile faade sitting hard-up against an adjacent railway viaduct, mitigating the noise from this through a layer of winter gardens. And The Reach, a block of 66 homes in Thamesmead completed in 2019, wraps around a generous communal garden that provides a green barrier of separation from the busy A2016 and Belmarsh Prison beyond, its balcony-access design also channelling 1930s blocks.While Bulrush Court has a smaller, tighter footprint than the similarly U-shaped Reach, it also establishes its own space. The more compact courtyard it encloses gives the block a focus and creates a sense of place for residents on an urban site where the only defining features are the hard transport arteries hemming it in.The courtyard space, landscaped by East, is well-planned, with two areas containing play equipment, one fenced around, already being intensively used by kids when we visited. Other, softer areas of bedding are planted with young trees, promising in time to provide more animation and shade. These in turn form green thresholds to the private amenity spaces of the ground-floor flats and to the four main entrances at the courtyards corners.These lead into small entrance lobbies, each with a copious adjacent bike store. Off each of these a stair serves either end of two elongated cores. Guinness Homes presciently insisted on this double-stair provision as a fire safety requirement before the legislative outcome of the Grenfell Fire tragedy made it mandatory for all new blocks over 18m.Flats open off internal corridors, which link through the spine of the block. While Im no fan of this arrangement, here each presents a short run and is naturally lit at one end by a window, mitigating the internalised feel. However, the use of corridor access does mean on plan that only corner flats enjoy a dual aspect, limiting cross-ventilation.At eighth floor level, a terrace provides a further communal space. It is dotted with raised beds for residents to do their own gardening. People have already started planting them out, says Park, indicating the mix of plants dotting the beds as we walk across the terrace. Roofs are otherwise green or fitted with PVs, which further lower the carbon costs of the heating. This is supplied through a site-wide heat network, served from a central energy centre.Throughout the scheme, the quality of the brickwork is impressive: Weve actually used four types of brick, says Tozer, pointing to grey engineering brick used for the plinths and a more variegated stock lining the courtyard, in contrast with the main russet red and yellow facing bricks. We avoided using specials, too: the curves are created by cutting regular bricks. Indeed, the overall quality of construction and maintenance of key detailing is indicative of a scheme in which Pitman Tozer was retained by the client to maintain oversight on construction.Having said that, a few aspects of the design, such as the white powder-coated lipped aluminium soffits of each balcony jar. Its a cover detail that incorporates MHVR ductwork, external vents, an alarm sounder and emergency lighting, the latter reflecting the Guinness Partnerships safety concern. Walking around the development, Park notes there have been issues as tenants settle in.There have been some incidents of knife crime and bikes stolen, so weve had to issue a number of anti-social behaviour orders (ASBOs). You always have to set and keep setting the ground rules at first. She adds that the ultimate sanction of losing your tenancy is a powerful one.For all the vegetable-planting opportunities on the roof, there is always an element of stick, as well carrot, about managing quality of life in a housing block.It goes to show that, aside from good design, a key aspect to good housing provision is also decent, hands-on management. Having visited two other local authority and build-to-rent schemes earlier on the same day, the Guinness Trust block was the only one where we have been met by a manager. Elsewhere, concierges mixing up keys to flats and caretakers not briefed about our visit pointed up the pitfalls of relying on hands-off management and virtual communications.But, aside from its responsible approach to management, this is a scheme that, through simple, uncostly design moves, provides a distinctive sense of place for its residents a key factor in its day-to-day success as a dwelling and thus its long-term sustainability.Project dataStart on site: April 2021Completion: May 2024Gross internal floor area: 12,200m2Construction cost: 35 millionConstruction cost per m2: 2,900Architect: Pitman Tozer ArchitectsClient: The Guinness PartnershipExecutive architect: Falconer Chester Hall ArchitectsStructural engineer: WatermansM&E consultant: Couch Perry Wilkes (MEP), Hoare Lea (MEP, CMT)Quantity surveyor: Arcadis (cost consultant)Landscape: EastPlanning consultant: Simply PlanningTownscape and heritage consultant: Peter Stewart ConsultancyTransport consultant: SteerFire consultant: JGA FireDaylight, sunlight and overshadowing consultant: GIA SurveyorsEnvironmental impact assessor: AECOMClerk of works: Rund PartnershipWind and microclimate consultant: Rowan Williams Davies & IrwinProject manager: Danescroft/ArcadisPrincipal designer: CalfordseadenCDM co-ordinator: CalfordseadenApproved building inspector: Bureau Veritas Building Control UKMain contractor: Lovell/HenryCAD software used: RevitAnnual CO2 emissions: 10 kgCO2/m2 (Part L regulated emissions)Sustainability dataPercentage of floor area with daylight factor >2%: Not suppliedPercentage of floor area with daylight factor >5%: Not suppliedOn-site energy generation: 2% reduction in regulated carbon emissionsHeating and hot water load: Not availableTotal energy load: Not availableCarbon emissions (all): 10 kgCO2/m2 (Part L regulated emissions)Annual mains water consumption: 38 m3/occupant (estimated)Airtightness at 50Pa: 3 m3/hr/m2Area-weighted U-value Floor U-value: 0.13 W/m2K,Roof U-value 0.17 W/m2K, Wall U-value: 0.15 W/m2K, Window U-value 1.4 W/m2KEmbodied/whole-life carbon: Not availablePredicted design life: 60-100 years

Lymphatic drainage massage is having a moment on social media, with claims that it canreduce inflammation, bloating and stress. While this technique was originally developed to treat lymphedema (swelling caused by a buildup of lymph fluid), it is now gaining popularity for the wider potential health benefits it has.To separate fact from fiction and learn how to properly perform these massages at home, we got the inside scoop fromRebecca Faria, a licensed lymphatic drainage specialist and founder ofDetox by Rebecca.What is a lymphatic drainage massage? Upgrade your inbox Get cnet insider From talking fridges to iPhones, our experts are here to help make the world a little less complicated. The lymphatic system is a network of tissues and organs, including the spleen, lymph nodes and vessels. One of the functions of the lymphatic system is that it provides your body with immunity. It also collects extra fluid from the body's tissues, returns it to the bloodstream and helps remove waste and unhealthy cells. Additionally, it aids in absorbing fats and fat-soluble vitamins from the intestines, ensuring they enter the bloodstream effectively. In some cases, a lymphatic drainage massage may be needed to stimulate this system."A full-body lymphatic drainage massage is a specialized technique that promotes the flow of lymphatic fluid throughout the entire body. This therapy employs a series of rhythmic and precise movements to stimulate the lymphatic system," Faria explained. "During the massage, pressure is applied to the skin in specific patterns, mimicking the natural flow of lymphatic fluid. This technique encourages lymphatic vessels to contract and push lymph fluid (containing waste products, toxins and immune cells) throughout the body."Types of lymphatic drainage massage include:Casley-Smith method: Uses light stroking movements with the palm and curved or flat fingers to keep lymph moving in the desired direction.Vodder method: Utilizes different hand movements (such as thumb circles, scoops and rotary movements) to move fluid from part of the body where lymphatics are impaired to another part where they are functioning.Fldi technique: An offshoot of the Vodder method, it alternates between similar hand motions with increased pressure and periods of relaxation.Leduc technique: Involves collecting lymph fluid with specific hand motions before redirecting it into the larger lymphatic system. A compression device can also be used. Lymphatic drainage massages can help detoxify the body. Getty ImagesLymphatic drainage massage benefits"The main goal of every lymphatic drainage massage is to help detoxify the body by moving lymph (the fluid that gets stuck between tissues) toward the lymph nodes. This process allows the lymph to be filtered and cleared from your system, promoting your overall health," Faria explained.Lymphatic drainage massage can offer several benefits, including:Reduced swelling: Helps alleviate edema (aka swelling) and fluid retention by promoting lymph circulation.Enhanced immune function: Stimulates the immune system, potentially reducing the frequency of illnesses.Improved circulation: Increases blood flow and oxygenation in tissues."In addition to its physical benefits, lymphatic drainage promotes relaxation and stress relief," said Faria. "The calming nature of the massage activates the parasympathetic nervous system, inducing a state of deep relaxation. This response lowers cortisol levels, which can contribute to stress and anxiety. The soothing experience can lead to a heightened sense of mindfulness and body awareness, further supporting the client's journey toward a healthier lifestyle."Lymphatic drainage massage risksWhile many seek lymphatic drainage massages for relief, weighing the benefits against potential risks is advised. Not everyone may benefit from this type of massage, particularly individuals with certain medical conditions.Though generally safe, there are some risks of lymphatic drainage massage to consider. They include:Infection: Those with an active infection may be at risk of the infection spreading.Blood clots: Individuals with a history of blood clots should avoid lymphatic drainage.Skin conditions: Conditions like dermatitis could worsen with massage."Lymphatic drainage massages may not be suitable for people with certain health conditions, such as heart failure, kidney issues or active infections, because stimulating lymph flow could complicate these conditions," Faria cautioned. These massages activate the parasympathetic nervous system, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. Getty ImagesDo you need lymphatic drainage?While individuals with lymphedema, fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis or other medical conditions may benefit from lymphatic drainage, those experiencing mild symptoms due to a poor or low-functioning lymphatic system may also find it helpful."One of the most common signs is swelling. Another indicator is feeling sluggish or fatigued. The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in detoxifying the body and supporting the immune system, so if you feel tired or have low energy, it might be a sign that your lymphatic system needs a boost to help remove toxins and improve circulation," explained Faria.According to the Cleveland Clinic, symptoms that could signal that lymphatic drainage massage may be helpful also include acne, rashes, frequent headaches and brain fog."Other signs include feeling stiff or achy, weight fluctuations due to water retention and digestive issues like bloating or irregular digestion, all of which may improve with lymphatic drainage," Faria said.How often should you get a lymphatic drainage massage?The frequency of lymphatic drainage massages varies based on individual needs."For optimal results, I usually recommend starting with weekly or bi-weekly sessions, especially if someone is dealing with specific issues like extreme swelling, post-surgical recovery or looking for a thorough detoxification," Faria suggested. "After that, once a month is a good maintenance routine. It's always a good idea to check with a healthcare provider before starting a regular regimen, especially if there are underlying health concerns." There are a multitude of ways to practice lymphatic drainage at home. Getty ImagesCan you do a lymphatic drainage massage yourself?Lymphatic drainage can often be done at home through simple techniques. Similar to a professional massage, these practices help stimulate the lymphatic system, promoting circulation and reducing swelling."Self-lymphatic drainage is an excellent practice you can do at home. Before starting, it's important to prepare properly. First, hydrate well by drinking plenty of water before and after your massage to help flush out toxins. Creating a calming environment is also good, so find a comfortable spot to relax, play some soothing music and make sure your muscles are not tense during the massage," Faria recommended.Activities like swimming and deep breathing can help you drain your lymphatic system, but Faria provides a range of massage techniques online, including those for stomach, arms, legs and facial self-lymphatic drainage, for those interested."Tools like facial cupping, gua sha or a dry brush can also help stimulate lymph flow in a safe way at home," said Faria.How to tell if lymphatic drainage massage is workingTo determine if lymphatic drainage massages are effective for you, there are several signs to look out for."One of the most noticeable changes is a reduction in swelling and puffiness. My clients report feeling lighter and noticing a decrease in fluid retention, particularly in areas like the legs, abdomen and face," Faria said. "Another positive sign is improved skin texture and tone. Many clients notice that their skin appears healthier and more radiant after treatments, and lots of them see a reduction in the appearance of cellulite, stretch marks and varicose veins."Faria also cited a boosted immune system and increased energy as signs that the treatment is benefiting you."It's essential to pay attention to how your body responds over time. Consistent sessions can lead to cumulative benefits, including improved immunity and just overall health. If you notice these positive changes, it's a good sign that lymphatic drainage massage is working effectively for you," explained Faria.The bottom lineLymphatic drainage massages have grown in popularity due to their ability to improve an individual's overall health by helping the lymphatic system work better. Whether done by a professional or using self-massage techniques at home, these massages can help reduce swelling, ease bloating, increase energy and more.Talking to a doctor or trained professional as well as gaining a better understanding of your body and its needs can help you figure out if lymphatic drainage is a good choice for you.

While working out is important for building strong muscles, having a balanced diet is equally essential. No matter how intense your workouts are, without proper nutrition, you won't get the results you are hoping to achieve. Most importantly, your diet should include protein, which is made up of amino acids that are part of building and maintaining your muscles and bones. To help you plan your meals and work toward growing your muscles, we discuss how food helps build muscles and which foods specifically can optimize your workouts. Of course, before making any changes to your diet, you should consult your doctor.How food builds muscle Upgrade your inbox Get cnet insider From talking fridges to iPhones, our experts are here to help make the world a little less complicated. Although protein is essential for muscle building, it's not the only important food component in the process. According to the National Academy of Sports Medicine, a good muscle-building diet must also include plenty of carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. A balanced diet that features all these will provide the necessary ingredients to help your muscles repair and rebuild after a workout.Overall, the NASM recommends that most people consume at least 0.7 to 0.8 grams of protein and 1.8 to 3.2 grams of carbohydrates per pound of body weight each day. Total calorie intake also plays a role in muscle building, as it's difficult to build muscle if you're burning more calories than you consume.Diet alone isn't enough to stimulate muscle growth. Exercise primarily resistance training, such as lifting weights is necessary to start the process. When you tear the fibers in your muscles, that stimulates cellular growth and repair. That's when your body can use the food you've eaten to rebuild and strengthen muscle tissue. Other factors also influence how effective and efficient this process is, from when you eat your food and how much rest you give your muscles between workouts to your hormonal and genetic makeup. Tanja Ivanova/Getty Images8 foods to build muscle and optimize your gainsAlthough there are many factors at play in building muscle, there's no doubt diet plays a key role. Here are eight muscle-building foods you can eat to optimize your workouts and increase your muscle mass.1. EggsEggs have long been considered a power food, and for good reason. They're incredibly rich in nutrients from fat and protein and include a potent mix of vitamins such as B12, B6 and thiamin. Their nutrient-dense profile makes them especially powerful, but most important is that they contain a hefty dose of leucine. This amino acid is known for its muscle-building prowess.2. FishIf you already have enough fat in your diet but need to boost your protein intake, look no further than fish. It's one of the best lean sources of protein you can eat, and it's full of other vitamins and minerals. A bonus? Fish is packed with omega-3 fatty acids. Although they're known for their many other health benefits, omega-3s may also improve muscle performance and help prevent the loss of muscle mass. Salmon and tuna are particularly great muscle-building food choices.3. NutsWhen eaten in moderation, nuts are an excellent choice for building muscle. These tasty snacks offer a perfect mix of protein, fats and fiber, making them one of the most balanced ways to supplement your workouts. You have to be careful, as many nuts (including peanuts, which are actually legumes), are high in calories. For the most nutrient-rich options, try almonds or walnuts.4. SoybeansIf you're trying to build muscle on a meatless diet, soybeans should be one of your closest friends. These are some of the most nutrient-dense legumes you can eat, and they pack a potent punch of protein to aid in building muscle. Soy contains all nine essential amino acids, making it one of the best plant-based protein sources available. Lauren Burke/Getty Images5. Greek yogurtDairy is a unique source of protein because it provides a combination of fast-digesting whey protein and slow-digesting casein protein. When consumed together, these two types of protein may enhance and prolong the protein-synthesis process that your muscles go through when rebuilding, helping you build your lean mass. Greek yogurt is a particularly great dairy choice because it contains twice the protein compared to regular yogurt and boasts additional probiotic health benefits you can't find in milk or cheese.6. Cottage cheeseIt doesn't offer the same probiotic benefits as yogurt, but cottage cheese is a great second choice for dairy-based protein. Cottage cheese packs more protein than Greek yogurt while boasting the same slow- and fast-digesting combination. It's a particularly great source of casein, and it provides a significant calorie boost if you need to make sure you're getting enough.7. Olive oilIt may not sound like your typical body-building food, but extra virgin olive oil has become increasingly popular for its muscle benefits in recent years. Widely known as a source of healthy monounsaturated fats, olive oil also helps to reduce inflammation and slow muscle breakdown. Both of these features can aid in any muscle-building regimen.8. QuinoaThey don't call quinoa a superfood for nothing. This dynamic grain (it's a seed but classified as a whole grain) packs a little bit of everything, including a lot of protein, fiber and carbohydrates, plus a hefty dose of vitamins and minerals. It's a perfect food for building muscle and maximizing the benefits of your workouts. Elizaveta Antropova/Getty ImagesA recipe for stronger musclesAdding these muscle-building foods to your diet will definitely help you boost muscle mass and increase your strength. Remember that boosting muscle mass takes time and that diet is only one piece of the puzzle. Combining a balanced diet of high-protein foods with healthy exercise and rest will speed up your journey and improve your overall health along the way.

PlayStation State of Play set for next week - reportGhost of a chance.Image credit: PlayStation News by Tom Phillips Editor-in-Chief Published on Feb. 3, 2025 Sony is set to hold its next PlayStation State of Play broadcast next week, according to a new report.The tip comes from NateTheHate, a leaker with a long track record who accurately reported last month's Nintendo Switch 2 reveal date ahead of time. Writing on social media, the leaker teased Sony's upcoming broadcast is currently expected to arrive around Valentine's Day - which is the end of next week.To see this content please enable targeting cookies. Xbox Developer Direct - four promising games also coming to PlayStation.Watch on YouTubeSony has streamed a State of Play broadcast each year in February since 2021, and typically uses the show to lay out its list of big first-party and third-party exclusives for the year.Last year's big show (held on 31st January, before a Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth-specific State of Play aired in early February) highlighted Helldivers 2, Stellar Blade, Foamstars, Silent Hill: The Short Message, Judas, Dragon's Dogma 2, Rise of the Ronin, Until Dawn and Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, among others. The biggest surprise of the show was Hideo Kojima popping in to announce Physint, a fresh game that's set to hark back to the creator's Metal Gear Solid action-espionage roots.So, what do we expect from State of Play this year? Well, PlayStation is set to launch its samurai sequel Ghost of Yotei this year - and could do well to announce some kind of launch window to space it out from Assassin's Creed Shadows. We're also expecting to hear more about Bungie's shooter reboot Marathon, and potentially Haven's live-service Fairgame$. Kojima may pop in to chat more about Death Stranding 2, which is out this year. And then there's Marvel's Wolverine - will it make 2025?Join us as ever, as Eurogamer reports live.

You can trust VideoGamer. Our team of gaming experts spend hours testing and reviewing the latest games, to ensure you're reading the most comprehensive guide possible. Rest assured, all imagery and advice is unique and original. Check out how we test and review games hereArrowhead Game Studios Helldivers 2 has released its first crossover in the form of a Killzone collaboration. After learning from some mistakes and putting in rules for future collaborations, Arrowhead is planning other crossover events in the future.Among calls for a Halo crossover, fans have been clamouring for an official Helldivers 2 x Warhammer 40K crossover event in the future. While the team would love to bring the epic sci-fi universe to the game, the developers just might not have the resources to do so.Helldivers 2 devs too busy for WarhammerSpeaking in the official Helldivers Discord, Arrowhead CEO Shams Jorjani explained the team and even Warhammer IP holders Games Workshop would love a crossover. However, with the team working on new weapon attachment systems, an upcoming Super Earth invasion and more, theres not enough time to do so.I can tell you [Games Workshop] would love a crossoverand were huge 40k fans ourselvesbut time and resources are finite and weve got our hands busy, the CEO told fans.Back in December, via PC Gamer, Jorjani also touched on the possibility of a Warhammer 40K crossover. In an earlier post, the CEO said: Lets just say GW have been courting us. Were huge fans.Anyone whos toyed with the Warhammer 40K universe knows just how similar the two sci-fi universes are. Then again, with the massive scale of everything in the 40K universe, would the scrawny divers even be able to hold a bolter without falling over? Must-Listen: Publishing Manor Lords w/ Joe Robinson VideoGamer Podcast Listen Now Arrowhead has frequently discussed the issues with crossovers in Helldivers 2 over the past few months with the team wary of dilluting the game with countless other IPs. For example, dont expect a Star Wars crossover any time well ever!For more HD2 coverage, read about how long HD2 can exist following the departure of its one Jesus figure or check out the best stratagems to use in the popular multiplayer game.Helldivers 2Platform(s):PC, PlayStation 5Genre(s):Action, Shooter, Third Person8VideoGamerSubscribe to our newsletters!By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy and may receive occasional deal communications; you can unsubscribe anytime.Share