Gifted creator of the Moomins, a fantasy family for children and adults alike
Tove Jansson, the Finnish artist and writer who created the extraordinary world of the Moomins, has died aged 86. She became famous in England when the London Evening News published a daily Moomins comic strip that ran from 1952-70. Books about the characters were translated into 35 languages.
Full article: http://www.theguardian.com/news/2001/jun/30/guardianobituaries.books
Globe-trotting Michael Palin has been from Pole to Pole and Around the World in 80 Days, taking the worst that third-world transport can throw at him. So why does travelling in Britain make him quail, asks Ros Coward
Michael Palin is back home during a brief pause in filming his latest journey. He’s been in the Sahara and loved it. “I’m visiting countries I didn’t know existed. The cultures are fascinating and I’ve met great characters.” And, of course, for the man who has become the nation’s best-loved intrepid traveller, he especially enjoys the journeys. “I made one amazing train journey to Dakkar. The train was 10 hours late, it took forever but it was incredible. I met up with a fantastic woman and discussed Muslim attitudes to sex.”
Full article: http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2001/jun/14/greenpolitics.transport
In the mass of commentary surrounding the election, no one is talking about emotions. This is pretty incredible, considering how big a factor they are in politics. For most of the electorate the exact policy differences between parties is only part of more nebulous issues like confidence, betrayal, contempt and especially trust.
Full article: http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2001/jun/05/election2001.politicalcolumnists3