Potpourri - Bored at Work Edition
Topic 1: Einstein's Puzzle - which may not have even been created by Einstein. A lot of times, this puzzle is accompanied by the statement that only 2% of the population could solve it. I find this very difficult to believe (heck, I was able to solve it).
Topic 2: Harry Potter Sequels. A look at some of the unauthorized sequels published in China and Mongolia. It also features a cute-looking doujinshi from Japan that I actually wouldn't mind getting a hold of. ETA: NYT has summaries from some of the books (you may have to register to read all of them).
Topic 2.5: How about a look at the official Asian translations? This site looks at how book titles, chapter titles, names and such have been translated into Chinese, Japanese and Vietnamese.
Topic 3: Over at TheOneRing.net, poster "Arwen's Daughter" has been posting discussions about the various costumes from the movie. You can find them here. I was able to go to the LOTR traveling exhibit when it came around. The details on those costumes are amazing! You can't really tell on screen. You can also find more information on LOTR costumes at Ally Cat Scratch.
Topic 3.5: Speaking of Costumes, how about some Narnia and Pirates of the Caribbean?
Cheers!