Latest news with #MichaelRosen
The Guardian
20-05-2025
- General
- The Guardian
We're no strangers to love on this island
Thank you for the letters (16 May) about Keir Starmer's 'island of strangers' speech. The item in John Crace's Digested Week (16 May) on the same subject was magnificent. I also loved Michael Rosen's poem (My Island of Strangers, 17 May). Thinking of poems, as I read Duncan Campbell's obituary (16 May), I thought of his wife Julie Christie's poem in praise of sprouts, written for a charity book and republished in the Observer in VandecasteeleCupar, Fife Like Michael Rosen, during a recent hospital stay, I was fortunate to be cared for by an island of strangers. My surgeon was Dutch, his No 2 was Irish; the rest of the excellent staff were predominantly Asian or African, and one of the nurses was aptly named LeManLondon Thank you, Michael Rosen. To adapt the words of Blanche DuBois, we have often relied on the kindness of BartonParbold, Lancashire As Emma Beddington rightly says (18 May), pets cannot share gossip, catch your eye in public when something amusing happens or chew over a family drama. Nor can they teach you to read, prescribe medicine when you are ill, put out fires or detain the person who stole your car. Give me people any WhiteReading, Berkshire For authenticity, shouldn't Monty Don's dog-friendly garden at the Chelsea flower show feature trees decorated with small hanging plastic bags (Report, 20 May)? Martin DattaLincoln Have an opinion on anything you've read in the Guardian today? Please email us your letter and it will be considered for publication in our letters section.
The Guardian
08-05-2025
- General
- The Guardian
Leave them hanging on the telephone
Regarding dealing with cold callers (Adrian Chiles, 7 May), it's irritating I know, but if you don't mind your phone being inaccessible for a few minutes, why not say: 'Hang on, I'll go and get him/her', and then leave your phone until the caller rings off? At least you will have wasted some of their WalkerPerrancoombe, Cornwall Re fostering a love of reading in children (Letters, 6 May), one of my fondest memories of my teaching career was story time in the infant class in a local village school. Most of the children came quite a distance on buses. They adored Michael Rosen's poetry. There were many afternoons when it was home time and they would shout: 'Please read another Michael Rosen one, Mrs Mansfield, the driver won't mind waiting.' What a privilege to teach them. Janet Mansfield Aspatria, Cumbria Your article (How to create a more eco-friendly lawn, 6 May) advises us to reduce our environmental impact by swapping a petrol mower for an electric one. Better advice would be to choose a push mower – beneficial to the environment and the owner's physical DavisWeymouth, Dorset It didn't take long for the 'quick' beginners cryptic crossword to become fiendish. Please have mercy on us older learners who take longer to get up to KelsoFrome, Somerset Re digestives (Letters, 6 May), other biscuits are Prower Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire Do you have a photograph you'd like to share with Guardian readers? If so, please click here to upload it. A selection will be published in our Readers' best photographs galleries and in the print edition on Saturdays.
Scotsman
23-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
Save up to 70% on children's classics in the Amazon Book Sale 2024
Classic children's titles are down in price in the Amazon Book Sale event | Amazon This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission on items purchased through this article, but that does not affect our editorial judgement. From bedtime favourites to nostalgic keepsakes, these beloved children's books are now up to 70% off in the Amazon Book Sale, running until 28th April. Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... There are some stories that never leave us — not just because of the words on the page, but because of the memories they hold. That quiet moment before bedtime. The joy of a familiar line. The sound of a little giggle or a whispered 'again?' These books become part of the rhythm of childhood — and now, thanks to the Amazon Book Sale, you can bring those timeless moments to life for less. Running until 28th April, the Amazon Book Sale offers up to 70% off print books, 90% off selected Kindle titles, savings on Kindle devices, audiobooks, and limited-time offers on Kindle Unlimited and Audible. It's the perfect excuse to stock up on beloved stories — whether for your own children, grandchildren or the next generation of readers. Here are some of the most cherished children's books currently on offer: The Tiger Who Came to Tea by Judith Kerr – £3.80 (52% off) A charming tale of an unexpected guest and a tea party like no other, this beautifully illustrated classic has delighted readers for decades. We're Going on a Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen – £2.80 (52% off) A swishy-swashy, squelchy favourite that turns reading aloud into an adventure. The kind of story that invites giggles and repeat performances. The Cat in the Hat by Dr Seuss – £3.76 (38% off) The iconic trickster in the striped hat brings mischief, rhythm and chaos in this unforgettable rhyming tale. A true classic for early readers. Ms Rachel and the Special Surprise by Ms Rachel – £3.60 (50% off) The much-loved online educator brings her energy and warmth to the page, perfect for little ones who know her from screen time. Guess How Much I Love You: I See Me! by Sam McBratney – £2.65 (45% off) A touching story about love and connection, made even more special in this personalised edition that children can see themselves in. Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone: Illustrated Edition by J.K. Rowling – £18.90 (41% off) With rich artwork and stunning detail, this illustrated hardback is a magical way to introduce younger readers to the wizarding world. These aren't just books — they're treasured memories in the making. Whether you're adding to a home library, choosing a meaningful gift or simply reliving a favourite tale, this is the perfect time to buy. Shop the full Amazon Book Sale here to explore thousands more offers across fiction, non-fiction, audiobooks and Kindle favourites. Offers run until 28th April. There's nothing quite like the gift of a story. It's not just what's read — it's the time spent together, the comfort of repetition, and the joy of imagination. These stories might be short, but their impact lasts a lifetime. Where will you land? Wowcher's £199 beach holiday could take you to the Maldives (aff) Not sure where to go on holiday? A new deal from Wowcher could make the decision for you – and potentially save you hundreds. The Mystery Beach Holiday offer includes return flights and hotel accommodation for just £199 per person. You won't know the destination until closer to departure, but options include the Maldives, Mauritius, St Lucia and several other popular sunshine spots. It's a gamble, but for the price, many see it as a fun and affordable way to book a last-minute escape. Plus, the package covers everything major – you just turn up at the airport. Click here to see the full Wowcher offer and book your mystery holiday – availability is limited and these deals tend to go quickly.
Scotsman
23-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
Save up to 70% on children's classics in the Amazon Book Sale 2024
Classic children's titles are down in price in the Amazon Book Sale event | Amazon This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission on items purchased through this article, but that does not affect our editorial judgement. From bedtime favourites to nostalgic keepsakes, these beloved children's books are now up to 70% off in the Amazon Book Sale, running until 28th April. Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... There are some stories that never leave us — not just because of the words on the page, but because of the memories they hold. That quiet moment before bedtime. The joy of a familiar line. The sound of a little giggle or a whispered 'again?' These books become part of the rhythm of childhood — and now, thanks to the Amazon Book Sale, you can bring those timeless moments to life for less. Running until 28th April, the Amazon Book Sale offers up to 70% off print books, 90% off selected Kindle titles, savings on Kindle devices, audiobooks, and limited-time offers on Kindle Unlimited and Audible. It's the perfect excuse to stock up on beloved stories — whether for your own children, grandchildren or the next generation of readers. Here are some of the most cherished children's books currently on offer: The Tiger Who Came to Tea by Judith Kerr – £3.80 (52% off) A charming tale of an unexpected guest and a tea party like no other, this beautifully illustrated classic has delighted readers for decades. We're Going on a Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen – £2.80 (52% off) A swishy-swashy, squelchy favourite that turns reading aloud into an adventure. The kind of story that invites giggles and repeat performances. The Cat in the Hat by Dr Seuss – £3.76 (38% off) The iconic trickster in the striped hat brings mischief, rhythm and chaos in this unforgettable rhyming tale. A true classic for early readers. Ms Rachel and the Special Surprise by Ms Rachel – £3.60 (50% off) The much-loved online educator brings her energy and warmth to the page, perfect for little ones who know her from screen time. Guess How Much I Love You: I See Me! by Sam McBratney – £2.65 (45% off) A touching story about love and connection, made even more special in this personalised edition that children can see themselves in. Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone: Illustrated Edition by J.K. Rowling – £18.90 (41% off) With rich artwork and stunning detail, this illustrated hardback is a magical way to introduce younger readers to the wizarding world. These aren't just books — they're treasured memories in the making. Whether you're adding to a home library, choosing a meaningful gift or simply reliving a favourite tale, this is the perfect time to buy. Shop the full Amazon Book Sale here to explore thousands more offers across fiction, non-fiction, audiobooks and Kindle favourites. Offers run until 28th April. There's nothing quite like the gift of a story. It's not just what's read — it's the time spent together, the comfort of repetition, and the joy of imagination. These stories might be short, but their impact lasts a lifetime. Where will you land? Wowcher's £199 beach holiday could take you to the Maldives (aff) Not sure where to go on holiday? A new deal from Wowcher could make the decision for you – and potentially save you hundreds. The Mystery Beach Holiday offer includes return flights and hotel accommodation for just £199 per person. You won't know the destination until closer to departure, but options include the Maldives, Mauritius, St Lucia and several other popular sunshine spots. It's a gamble, but for the price, many see it as a fun and affordable way to book a last-minute escape. Plus, the package covers everything major – you just turn up at the airport.
Reuters
07-04-2025
- Business
- Reuters
Tariff-whipped Wall Street wonders: will Trump blink?
NEW YORK, April 7 (Reuters) - Investors are trying to game out how much tolerance U.S. President Donald Trump has for stock market losses after his latest tariff policies ignited a more than 10% wipeout on Wall Street, with some still holding out hope of eventual relief. A so-called "Trump put" - the option market equivalent of a presidential backstop for equities - underpinned Trump's first term, as he frequently cited stock market strength as proof his policies were working. Over the course of his first presidency the S&P 500 (.SPX), opens new tab benchmark rose 68% and scaled record highs, while Trump cheered its progress, tweeting more than 150 times about the stock market. This time around, hope that such a Trump Put still exists is evaporating, or at the least, investors are coming around to the view that Trump is much more inclined to ride out sharp falls. The S&P (.SPX), opens new tab and Nasdaq (.IXIC), opens new tab are down over 15% and 20% since his inauguration in January respectively. "The whole notion of tariffs and trade policy has been such an integral part of Donald Trump's psyche, I don't see it abandoned," said Michael Rosen, chief investment officer at Angeles Investments, who said any pain level likely to cause Trump to change course remained a long way away. Previous assumptions that Trump's pro-business agenda would buoy risk assets similarly had already been fading as his trade policies rattled investors over the past few weeks. But the more-aggressive-than-anticipated tariffs unveiled on April 2 deepened the market selloff, leaving investors questioning whether the Trump put was gone, or might eventually reappear through tariff rollbacks after any trade deals. For Bob Elliott, chief executive officer and chief investment officer of Unlimited Funds, the selloff still had a long way to go before any policy turnaround. "It takes 20-30% declines in stocks to get there. So the decline so far is not big enough," he said. Some were more hopeful the market fall could eventually induce a change of course. "I don't think (Trump) is going to be highly tolerant of massive stock market declines - he'll see his popularity tank, and it will endanger his whole agenda,' said Kevin Philip, partner at Bel Air Investment Advisors. "I don't see any way out of this if he doesn't come up with deals or reasons to change course.' The huge market falls - not seen since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 - even caused speculation online that Trump was intentionally "crashing" the market to force the U.S. Federal Reserve to lower interest rates while making stocks more affordable to middle-class investors. Trump on Friday retweeted a social media post bearing the caption "Trump is Purposely CRASHING The Market" and featuring images of the president pointing at a large downward red arrow and of him signing executive orders at the White House. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Sunday, Trump said he was not intentionally engineering a market selloff and the rout was the result of a "medicine" needed to fix the U.S. trade deficit. Trump and his team have said their policies may cause short-term pain but will eventually revive manufacturing and spur growth. On Friday he told investors pouring money into the United States that his policies would never change. White House spokesman Kush Desai said in a statement to Reuters: "Just as it did during President Trump's first term, the administration's America First economic agenda of tariffs, deregulation, tax cuts, and the unleashing of American energy will restore American Greatness from Main Street to Wall Street.' PAIN LEVEL Some investors fear that weakening consumer confidence, an escalating trade war, and rising price pressures could deal a harsh and lasting blow to the economy, regardless of any potential economic upside down the line. For Brian Bethune, an economist at Boston College, the disruption caused by the tariffs was too abrupt to allow U.S. businesses to soften the blow, despite their resilience. "You're putting so many sandbags on the balloon, it's going to come back down to earth with a thud," Bethune said. In the two sessions after the tariff decision was unveiled on Wednesday, the S&P 500 has tumbled 10.5%, erasing nearly $5 trillion in market value, marking its most significant two-day loss since March 2020. On Monday, the S&P was down 0.12%. NO CAVALRY Hopes that the market could be propped up by actions by the U.S. Federal Reserve have also taken a knock. Trump on Friday called on Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell to cut interest rates, saying it was the "perfect time" to do so. But stock losses deepened past 5% after Powell on Friday warned that the new tariffs would likely push inflation higher while slowing economic growth, suggesting the Fed was unlikely to rush in to cut rates. "The market is still digesting the great deal of uncertainty and I think it's also digesting the fact that both Trump and Powell have made it clear that the cavalry is not coming to immediately cause things to bounce back up," said David Seif, chief economist for developed markets at Nomura in New York. Rising prices could reduce the Fed's ability to take supportive actions as it has in previous market downturns or if economic conditions deteriorated significantly, analysts said. This could take off the table a so-called "Fed put," or a perceived tendency of the central bank to run to the aid of financial markets. 'Who blinks first? The Fed or President Trump? The Fed has made it clear that with inflation where it is and unemployment where it is, (they're) comfortable without doing anything right now,' said Ryan Detrick, chief market strategist at Carson Group in Omaha. 'We think Washington likely has to blink first to present some type of positive news."
