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Robert Siegel talks with Philip Chatennay, an editor with the Political Weekly Marianne, about an unauthorized "sequel" to Victor Hugo's novel, Les Miserables. The book is Cosette, or the Time of Illusions, written by journalist Francois Ceresa. It is considered scandalous within French literary circles. It's due for publication next week. (3:00) Cosette, or the Time of Illusions will be published in France by Plon.

Linda Wertheimer talks with Doug Struck, Tokyo Bureau chief for the Washington Post about the election of Junichiro Koizumi, the new head of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party in Japan. Koizumi is likely to be the country's next prime minister. Koizumi had a reputation as an eccentric -- but has become known as a reformer, and gained popular support to head a government which he had previously challenged.

NPR's Julie Rovner reports that horseback riders, roller-bladers, and other sports enthusiasts are perplexed about a new health care law. It's intended to prevent health insurance discrimination, but could also keep some sports injuries from being covered.

Commentator Joel Achenbach laments the rising tide of linguistic inaccuracy-- what he calls the "thing" thing. (3:01) {STATIONS: The book What's What is currently out of print, but available from used-book sellers}

Commentator Julia King gives her opinion on the "Unborn Victims of Violence Act."

Simon Ingram of the BBC reports on the arrest of the former president of Philippines, Joseph Estrada.

NPR's Mandelit del Barco reports on the controversy surrounding the Hollywood Bowl, and outdoor concert shell in the Hollywood hills. Celebrities from Sinatra to the Beatles have performed there over its 72 year history. Now preservationists are arguing against what some performers say is a much-needed renovation.

Hes just written a new memoir called The Undiscovered Paul Robeson, the first of a two part series on his father, the famed actor, singer and athlete. He talks about his fathers rise in show business and what it was like growing up as the son of an icon. He lives in Brooklyn, New York.

Mexican Filmmaker ALEJANDRO GONZALEZ INARRITU. His debut film "Amores Perros" has just been released in the US to critical acclaim. The film follows the lives of three groups of people whose human relationships parallel the relationships they have with their dogs. Released in Los Angeles theaters in April, the movie was nominated for an Oscar in the category of Best Foreign Language Film. Other awards include the Canal Award at Cannes 2000, Grand Prix for Best Film and Best Director at the Tokyo International Film Festival and New Director's Award at Edinburgh.

NPR's Jennifer Ludden in Jerusalem reports Israelis are marking the 53rd anniversary of the country's independence in a somber mood, amid ongoing conflict with the Palestinians. Israeli troops enforced strict security measures and tightened the closure of the occupied West Bank and Gaza to prevent Palestinian suicide attacks during the holiday.