In a world where every word and gesture is copyrighted, patented or trademarked, one girl elects to remain silent rather than pay to speak, and her defiant and unexpected silence threatens to unravel the very fabric of society. Speth Jime is anxious to deliver her Last Day speech and celebrate her transition into adulthood. The moment she turns fifteen, Speth must pay for every word she speaks (“Sorry” is a flat ten dollars and a legal admission of guilt), for every nod ($0.99/sec), for every scream ($0.99/sec) and even every gesture of affection. She’s been raised to know the consequences of falling into debt, and can’t begin to imagine the pain of having her eyes shocked for speaking words that she’s unable to afford. But when Speth’s friend Beecher commits suicide rather than work off his family’s crippling debt, she can’t express her shock and dismay without breaking her Last Day contract and sending her family into Collection. Backed into a corner, Speth finds a loophole: rather than read her speech—rather than say anything at all—she closes her mouth and vows never to speak again. Speth’s unexpected defiance of tradition sparks a media frenzy, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps, and threatens to destroy her, her family and the entire city around them.

Opium, once used for ritual purposes, is a substance which dulls pain and offers access to an artificial world, and has long been idealized by artists and markets. Baudelaire, Picasso, and Dickens were all inspired to create by the blue clouds of smoke. Known as either a sacred drug or the worst of poisons, opium rapidly became popular in Great Britain and a source of commerce with Imperial China. This illustrated work presents the history and quasi-religious rites of opium’s use.

Ideal for spiritual seekers—or anyone looking to explore the Bible for the first time. The NIV Journey Bible is uniquely designed to help you discover the practical aspects of Christianity and better understand God. Based on the REVEAL study from the Willow Creek Association, this Bible is intended for anyone in the investigative stage of their spiritual journey. The Journey Bible's exploratory approach addresses key questions you may have about the Bible and its relevance today. Notes and insights are woven throughout the accurate, readable, and clear New International Version, drawing you into the message and pointing the way toward a relationship with Jesus. Icons visually trace seven "explorer" themes throughout Scripture: Discovering God Addressing Questions Strengthening Relationships Reasons to Believe Knowing Yourself Why Jesus? Managing Resources Features: Complete text of the accurate, readable, and clear New International Version (NIV) Introductory articles that define key concepts involved in being a spiritually open person Book introductions that provide helpful information about each book of the Bible Indexes NIV dictionary/concordance that helps explain and find things you’re looking for “Five Alive” reading plan covering Genesis, Deuteronomy, John, Acts, and Romans

Know how to pray in the face of crisis