1 . Alien Clay by Adrian Tchaikovsky
On the distant world of Kiln lie the ruins of an alien civilization. A great mystery awaits humans: who were the builders and where are they now? These questions become realfor Professor Arton Daghdev, exiled (流放) from Earth to Kiln’s off-world labour camp due to his mistake. Facing the planet’s dangerous ecosystem ,Arton fights for survival.
Stories of Your Life and Others by Ted Chiang
A sci-fi classic in a brand-new edition. From a high Babylonian tower that connects a flat Earth to the sky above, to an alien language that challenges our very sense of time and reality, Chiang’s unique imagination invites readers to question their understanding of the universe and their place in it.
War Bodies by Neal Asher
In a world ruled by robots, the Cyberat face a rebellion (叛乱) when the human Polity arrives.Piper, raised as a weapon, seeks help from the Polity after his parents are caught by enemies. As war worsens,Piper must face the puzzling technology implanted in his own body. It could either end their fight or cause serious consequences. The future of civilization hangs in the balance as the battle unfolds.
In the Lives of Puppets by TJ Klune
In a strange little home built into the branches of a forest live three robots.Vic Lawson,a human, lives there too.The day Vic repairs an unfamiliar android labelled“HAP”, he learns of a shared criminal past between the robots — a past spent in hunting humans. The robots, once hidden and safe, are now exposed.
1. Which book explores the relations between humans and the universe?| A．Alien Clay. | B．In the Lives of Puppets. |
| C．War Bodies. | D．Stories of Your Life and Others. |
| A．Adrian Tchaikovsky’s. | B．Ted Chiang’s. |
| C．Neal Asher’s. | D．TJ Klune’s. |
| A．Book reviewers. | B．Sci-fi lovers. |
| C．Universe researchers. | D．Robot developers. |
2 . How to Get Out of Your Comfort Zone
It can surely be challenging and a little scary to step out of your comfort zone, but facing unfamiliar challenges can help you feel happier and more fulfilled in the long run. How to grow outside your comfort zone?
Regard discomfort as progress.
Reward yourself for trying new things.
Treat yourself to stay motivated and energized. For example, whenever you do something that’s out of your comfort zone, buy yourself a small treat, take yourself out to a nice meal, or spend time doing other activities that you enjoy.
Surround yourself with supportive people.
Ask friends and family for encouragement and support. Tell your closest friends, family members, or partners what you’re trying to do and why.
Get rid of things that’ll give you an excuse not to try something. For example, if your goal is to socialize with more people, turn off your phone when you go to a party or gathering so you won’t be tempted to use it as a distraction. Your environment can block or help your progress, so do what you can to improve it to guarantee success.
| A．Adjust your goals in time |
| B．Your experiences can inspire them |
| C．Change your environment to help you grow |
| D．Overcome fear by adopting a positive mindset |
| E．They’ll be more than happy to get behind you and cheer you on |
| F．This will motivate you to step out and experience different possibilities |
| G．Try new activities and gain wide perspectives by following these strategies |
3 . While bees have a reputation for doing two things well: pollinating(授粉) flowers and making honey, they rarely receive the credit they deserve for their vital role in keeping a healthy grassland and maintaining a stable climate.
A grassland is one type of ecosystem where bees play multiple important roles. These often-ignored habitats are composed not just of grasses but of a broad community of wildflower species. Without the help of bees, flowering plants would no longer be able to reproduce at the same rate, eventually dying out, and we’d lose these species-rich ecosystems.
This would be a big problem for our planet because unlike the grasses that grow in your local park, native grassland plants have very deep roots that reach 15 feet or more into the soil. While a forest stores the majority of its carbon above ground in a tree’s trunks and branches, most grassland carbon is safely held below ground within these roots. Unlike forests, which lose most of their carbon once their trunks have burned, the carbon within a healthy grassland remains beyond the reach of fire, providing a second line of defense against a changing climate.
A bee’s impact below the soil line doesn’t end with carbon storage. Many bees nest within the soil. These gatherings may include thousands of individual bees, whose nests may go many feet into the soil, providing air and opportunities for water conservation. Where they are found, bees play a significant role in ensuring that soils remain healthy.
Sam Droege, a famous wildlife biologist states that bees will go wherever they are called to-the flowers, plants, and grasslands acting as a homing signal guiding them forth. “They will travel impressive distances to feed on specific species of flowering plants,” says Droege. “We’ve seen that even if the climate changes, the bees will still follow where the plants grow.”
1. Why are bees crucial to a grassland ecosystem?| A．They provide honey for wild species. | B．They can protect grasses from dying out. |
| C．They change the stability of the climate. | D．They help flowering plants’ reproduction. |
| A．In the trunks of the trees. | B．In the roots of the plants. |
| C．In the surface of the soil. | D．In the flowers above ground. |
| A．Where bees can be found | B．Why bees nest underground. |
| C．How bees help soils stay healthy. | D．Whether bees conserve water. |
| A．Bees are naturally attracted by plants. |
| B．It is difficult for bees to find enough to eat. |
| C．People can guide bees to read certain signals. |
| D．Bees' behaviors change with global warming. |
4 . Arriving in Beijing as a 20-year-old girl from Germany, I found skateboarding to be my compass in exploring this vast and unfamiliar city.
My first impression of Beijing was its combination of ancient buildings and modern, futuristic architecture, which provided a variety of skate spots. From historic landmarks to urban malls in commercial districts, each location offered its own set of challenges and opportunities for creative expression. This contrasted with the skate parks back home in Europe, which, while well-designed and functional, lacked the historical depth and aesthetic (美学的) diversity in Beijing.
The skateboarding community in Beijing has also taken me by surprise. I remember the first time going out on a street skating park. I had some concerns initially, fearing that people might keep me, a foreigner, at a distance. However, with locals happy to communicate with me, my worries turned out to be unnecessary.
The first thing that caught my eye was a beautiful backside flip done by Seven, a Beijing skater who was just as welcoming and free-spirited as any skaters I’d met in Europe. It’s this shared passion for skateboarding that bonds this community together tightly across the globe.
In addition, even those outside the skateboarding community show curiosity and enthusiasm for the sport, which impressed me a lot. Passersby, especially the elders and young children, often stop to watch us skate, with some even daring to try it out for themselves. This openness and eagerness for exploration were refreshing for me, and it provided a wonderful opportunity for cultural exchanges and mutual learning.
My skateboarding journey in China has truly been enlightening, one that bridges the gap between Eastern and Western cultures. As I continue to navigate the streets and skate parks of Beijing, I do so with a deeper appreciation for the culture diversity here and the unifying power of skateboarding, which brings people together in the spirit of joy, freedom, and mutual respect.
1. What is special about skate spots in Beijing?| A．The creative design. | B．The historical depth. |
| C．The modern landmark | D．The commercial function. |
| A．She might be too shy to join others. |
| B．She might feel lonely in a new place. |
| C．Locals could be unwilling to interact with her. |
| D．Locals could be uninterested in skateboarding. |
| A．Seven’s experience in Europe. |
| B．Children’s exploration in cultures. |
| C．The elders’ dangerous movements. |
| D．People’s great passion for skateboarding. |
| A．Skateboarding across cultures. | B．Learning skateboarding in Beijing. |
| C．Exchanging respect among cultures. | D．Making friends in a foreign country. |
5 . Time for International Booker Prize again! The novels on 2024 International Booker Prize shortlist (入围名单) cover cultures, styles and the width of human experience and associate us with new sensations and memories.
Not a River by Selva Almada, translated by Annie
Two men and their friend’s teenage son go on a fishing trip. Frustrated after hours of wrestling with a hooked fish, one of them shoots it with a gun. So begins a tale about perseverance, guilt, desire and outsider suspicion.
The Details by la Genberg, translated by Kira
Genberg said that she began writing The Details, “just like the woman in the novel, in a world health crisis in 2020, when I headed to my bookshelf and randomly picked up a book that fell open in my hands. ”It’s a novel related to relationships, connection, memory and time.
What I’d Rather Ponder by Posthuma, translated by Sarah
The narrator is a twin whose brother has recently passed away. Posthuma said the story was inspired by a personal experience when “the one person that I thought would always be there withdrew from my life”. The novel is praised for its “utter truth” and unique writing style.
Crooked Plow by Viera Junior, translated by Johnny
Two sisters are confused by the powers of a knife beneath their grandmother’s bed. With magical and social realism, it illustrates the story of farmers in Brazil’s poorest region. It speaks to the significance of remembering our histories and preserving the land that sustains us.
The winner will be announced on June 21st, 2024. And £50,000 prize money will be divided equally between the author and the translator. Shortlisted authors and translators will share a prize of £6,000.
1. What do Not a River and The Details have in common?| A．They are written in the same style. | B．They deal with diverse themes. |
| C．They are final winners of Booker Prize. | D．They relate to the author's own life. |
| A．Not a River. | B．The Details. |
| C．What I’d Rather Ponder. | D．Crooked Plow. |
| A．£3,000. | B．£6,000. | C．£25,000. | D．£50,000. |
6 . If something’s standing in your way to greatness, these top books on motivation can help you overcome roadblocks so you can realize your dreams. Here’s a look at some of the best books on motivation.
Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff ... and It’s All Small Stuff by Richard Carlson
Learn how to turn problems into opportunities and stay calm in stressful situations with this handy guide focused on helping readers find happiness and peace of mind. Discover how to master your thoughts and fully live in the moment to appreciate what you have and get the most out of life.
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey
Highlighting the habits that distinguish those people who deal particularly well with the world from everyone else, this popular motivation book explains how you can become a better person by adopting the attitude of the highly effective and aligning (使……一致) your life with universal principles.
How to Win Friends &Influence People by Dale Carnegie
A favorite presenting basic rules for how to make a good first impression and effortlessly win people over, this bestselling motivational book offers timeless advice backed by engaging anecdotes (轶事). Carnegie explains the easy techniques to help anyone become more popular and persuasive, and he shares simple guidelines to instantly make yourself more likable.
Smarter Faster Better by Charles Duhigg
Being productive isn’t just about managing your to-do list; it’s also about making the right choices and maintaining the proper mindset. Staying motivated means sticking to your goals even when the world throws a challenge of bother at you. And by adopting a few easy methods to stay on track, nothing will stand between you and your dreams.
1. If you want to be popular, which book may you read?| A．Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff... and It’s All Small Stuff. |
| B．The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. |
| C．How to Win Friends & Influence People. |
| D．Smarter Faster Better. |
| A．Richard Carlson. | B．Stephen R. Covey. |
| C．Dale Carnegie. | D．Charles Duhigg. |
| A．It motivates you to achieve your dreams. | B．It emphasizes the importance of willpower. |
| C．It teaches you how to keep a peaceful mind. | D．It tells about specific basic rules for success. |
7 . Ireland: The Emerald Isle
Travelling in the Republic of Ireland is like stepping into a vivid painting where lush green landscapes meet charming villages.
Dublin
Start exploring in Dublin, Ireland’s capital, which blends the old and new. The city is steeped in history, and you can enjoy its past at landmarks like Trinity College, founded in 1592. It’s home to the Book of Kells, a medieval (中世纪的) masterpiece. After that, take a walk around Dublin Castle, a symbol of Ireland’s historical power. Then head to The Temple Bar, with its cobblestone streets and lively pubs, to experience Dublin’s contemporary culture.
Ring of Kerry
The Ring of Kerry, 1,179-kilometer circular route, showcases Ireland’s beauty. You’ll encounter green meadows, peaceful lakes and dramatic coastal cliffs. Each turn in the road reveals breathtaking views that will leave you in awe.
Cliffs of Moher
You can’t say you’ve been to Ireland if you haven’t checked out the Cliffs of Moher. These towering cliffs on the west coast rise from the Atlantic Ocean, reaching heights of over 200 meters. The sheer size of the cliffs and the roaring waves below create a fascinating and humbling experience.
Inishmore
Take a ferry to Inishmore, one of the rugged Aran Islands. Upon your arrival, you will immediately notice the hard life of the local people. At first there was no soil on the island, so over the centuries, they made their own — from seaweed and sand. Now about 2,400 kilometers of rock walls spread around the land. Take a tour or ride a bike around the island. Then enjoy an Irish coffee before heading back to the mainland.
1. What can you probably see in the Ring of Kerry?| A．Some historical landmarks and old castles of Ireland. |
| B．A circular route with views of lakes, meadows and cliffs. |
| C．The special soil made from seaweed and sand by local people. |
| D．The towering cliffs on the west coast from the Atlantic Ocean. |
| A．By plane. | B．By ferry. | C．By subway. | D．By bike. |
| A．A travel journal. | B．A research paper. |
| C．A travel brochure. | D．An autobiography. |
8 . 4 Summer Jobs to Get Paid and Take a Break
Camp counsellor (辅导员)
Most kids head off to camp during the summertime, and if you’re past the typical age of being a camper, relive your youth by becoming a summer camp counsellor. You can enjoy participating in activities, planning events, and partaking in arts and crafts. It’s one of the best summer jobs because it also builds your leadership skills while you earn extra money. Depending on your schedule, you can work to fit your needs. The average starting pay is $10.5 an hour.
Lifeguard
Spending time on the water is something many people do during the summer. And if you're good at swimming, then being a lifeguard is a great option for you. The hours are flexible, and the pay is great, with the average hourly rate at $11.50.
Amusement park employee
An amusement park is a great place to work during the summertime. There are a variety of positions you can get hired for — from ride operator to food service to booth tender — and the average starting pay is $10 an hour. The hours are flexible and negotiable depending on where you decide to work: the larger the park, the more employees they’ll have, which could mean fewer hours they’ll need you to cover.
Dog walker
If you’re looking for a relaxing job, being a dog walker could be the right choice for you. Dog walking hours and pay are easily negotiable, as you can simply discuss with the dog’s owner what your availability is, when they need you, and what your pay rate is. Getting some exercise with a furry friend will feel more like a relaxing pastime than a job. And if you wish to continue being a dog walker, it’s the job that’s easiest to keep year-round.
1. What is the benefit of being a camp counsellor?| A．It brings back the glory. |
| B．It boosts artistic creativity. |
| C．It is easy to do and well-paid. |
| D．It develops competence in leadership. |
| A．Camp counselor. | B．Lifeguard. |
| C．Amusement park employee. | D．Dog walker. |
| A．They need full-time employees. | B．The working hours are flexible. |
| C．The pay remains unclear. | D．They need relevant certificates. |
Between exploring the lake in boats, hiking to the waterfalls, and camping in remote natural environments, you ll have a hard time picking a favorite!
2023 Camp Dates:Term 1: June 11 — 16 Term 2: June 18 — 23
Term 3: June 25 — 30 Term 4: July 9 — 14
Term 5 (L. I. T. Week): July 16—21
2023 Pricing Options:Full Price: $485 / week
Early Bird Discount (Until April 17th): $455 / week
L. I. T. Week: $0
Leaders In Training (L. I. T. Program) (Ages 14—15)Our L. I. T. program is a part of our Teen Adventure Camp program and is a transitional (过渡的) program for campers to become staff members. It is a program that is highly selective and competitive. This program allows campers ages 14 and 15 to see what being a part of the Pleasant Hill Outdoor Camp family is like.
How does my camper become involved?★ The camper must attend a previous week of Teen Adventure Camp within the same summer.
★ Have to be 14 or 15 years old during their week of camp to qualify.
★ The camper should express interest in the L. I. T. program during their Teen Adventure Week and receive a recommendation for the program from their counselor (辅导员)!
★ Good performance during Teen Adventure Week.
How to confirm availability (有空) & acceptance?
At the end of the camper’s Teen Adventure Camp session, the campers who are accepted into the program will receive an official invitation based on their counselor’s opinion. From there, the parent of the camper must confirm the camper’s availability as soon as possible. There are limited spots which are on a first-come-first-served basis only. Parents can confirm in person at Check Out, by phone (419-938-3715), or by email (info@phoc.org). We will make sure to add L. I. T. week to the camper’s online registration.
1. When will L. I. T. week take place?| A．During June 11 — 16. | B．During June 25 — 30. |
| C．During July 9 — 14. | D．During July 16 — 21. |
| A．Paying for their camp before April 17th. |
| B．Joining in more than two weeks of camp. |
| C．Being 13 years old during their week of camp. |
| D．Getting a recommendation from their camp counselor. |
| A．Confirming their children’s availability soon. |
| B．Printing official invitations to their children in person. |
| C．Keeping in close touch with their children’s counselors. |
| D．Adding L. I. T. week to their children’s online registration. |
10 . Isabel Allende, born in 1942 in Peru, is a Chilean-American writer. When she was a young girl, her father Tomas was appointed to work in Chile, causing them to move from Peru to Chile. During the 1960s, she began work in television journalism and eventually became a television hostess. From 1969 to 1973, she was an editor of a children’s magazine.
Allende is the author of over twenty books which have been translated into numerous languages and sold over 65 million copies. In addition to writing novels, she has also penned short fiction, plays and stories for children. A letter to her sick, elderly grandfather became the manuscript of her first novel. She rose to prominence in Latin American literature after the success of this novel. Allende’s own experiences from Chile have filled much of her writing through the years, and her book Paula is a memoir of her childhood and youth in Chile and her departure from that country.
Allende has been a highly influential voice in Latin American literature, often providing an important female perspective on the world. Allende’s writing style combines realistic writing with surprising elements of magic. Her work is sometimes compared to the work of Gabriel Marquez, a famous Colombian novelist known for his work in the magical realist style — “magical realism”. However, her voice is also considered distinct with a style that combines concern for the inner, personal lives of her characters with their physical and social environments.
Two of Allende’s works have been adapted for feature films. She has won many awards, including the Dorothy and Lilian Gish Prize, which is given to whoever has contributed to the beauty of the world and to our understanding of it. Although she has an international reputation for writing, she states she doesn’t consider her books her greatest achievement, but her family and her time devoted to assisting others to be more vital.
1. Why did Allende move to Chile?| A．To live with her father. | B．To obtain more job offers. |
| C．To look after her grandfather. | D．To get more writing materials. |
| A．Became famous. | B．Gained wealth. |
| C．Remained unknown. | D．Changed a profession. |
| A．The topics basically focus on women’s world. |
| B．The materials come from her experience as a TV hostess. |
| C．The writing style can be considered as“magical realism”. |
| D．The content mainly highlights private lives of the characters. |
| A．Winning many awards. | B．Spending her time helping others. |
| C．Earning an international fame. | D．Adapting two works for feature films. |
