Topic: Victor Hugo

Censored: 5 plays and novels banned around the globe

Censorship of the arts has a long history, from ancient Greece to present-day Thailand. Here is a list of five plays and novels banned, for a variety of reasons, in regions across the globe.

Earthquake in Mexico: Powerful, destructive but not deadly (+video)

Earthquake in Mexico: The magnitude 7.4 quake was the biggest since 1986, when at least 10,000 died. But improved construction and where this earthquake hit, say officials, has left Mexico with limited damage, and no fatalities. 

'Friends of Syria': Which good cause will bring unity for action?

At both the UN and at a "Friends of Syria" meeting in Tunisia, a consensus is steadily forming over which universal value can justify strong action on Syria.

10 sequels based on a classic book

10 authors who wrote a novel based in another author's literary world.

Sue Monk Kidd's 10 favorite books

Sue Monk Kidd, author of "The Secret Life of Bees," shares her favorite reads. 

2012 movies: 10 to look for

Hollywood's already looking ahead to the movies for this year -- here are 10 of the most anticipated

Tom Hooper's 'Les Misérables' may star Hugh Jackman and Paul Bettany

Hugh Jackman and Paul Bettany could both star in the musical adaptation of ‘Les Miserables’ from director Tom Hooper (The King’s Speech). But will ‘The Wolverine’ affect Hugh Jackman’s schedule?

The Greater Journey: Americans in Paris

How 19th-century America’s romance with Paris helped to change the course of US history.

Top Picks: 'Unstoppable,' Bonnaroo, and the 'Les Misérables' anniversary concert

A cinematic take on a runaway train in the Tony Scott film 'Unstoppable,' a music festival called Bonnaroo, and the 'Les Misérables' 25th anniversary concert on PBS.

Nicaragua to vote on bills tightening Daniel Ortega's grip on security, media

Nicaragua's legislature votes today on three proposed laws that, critics say, would give President Daniel Ortega sweeping new authority to create a domestic spy network and censor the media.

Classic review: The Black Tower

With a nod to Poe, Bayard pens a mystery about a lost king and a real-life convict.

Parisians: An Adventure History of Paris

A magnificent stroll through Parisian lives.

After secret hearings, France ready to put World Cup behind it

After the French team imploded at the World Cup, the French national parliament held two secret inquiries this week into the catostrophe!

The 10 most pirated eBooks of 2009

Isolated Nicaragua senses opportunity in Honduras crisis

President Ortega has quickly positioned himself – alongside Chávez and Castro – as a champion of democracy.

In Paris, numbers – and spirits – of student strikers are waning

The protests that blocked classes at dozens of colleges ended up underscoring the need for reform in a university system that the government says is outmoded and underperforming.

The Saudi King's vision for interfaith dialogue

This week's special gathering at the UN can help unite us in the fight against extremism.

The Black Tower

A mystery about a lost king and the real-life convict who became the world's first modern detective.

How to travel with kids in tow

This family found ways to make traveling fun for Mom, Dad – and son.