The Earth’s magnetic force field is decaying faster than previously thought. When the poles switch, a process that takes many years, the Earth is unprotected from solar radiation storms that would, among other disturbances, wipe out much and possible all of our electromagnetic technology. Navigation for all kinds of animals is disrupted without a stable, magnetic North Pole. And, can you imagine no satellites, no Internet, no smartphones–maybe no power grids at all? This is the premise of The Spinning Magnet: The Electromagnetic Force That Created the Modern World–and Could Destroy It a riveting new book by award-winning journalist, Alanna Mitchell. She has crafted a beautiful story of surprising ideas and science, illuminating invisible parts of our own planet that are constantly changing around us. Alanna is an engaging interview who thoughtfully explains a complex and daunting subject. Her passion for her investigative work is compelling and not to be missed.

“I’m so pleased you laughed out loud.” Says, British author, Tim Orchard, after Life Elsewhere host, Norman B recounts how Tim’s new book, Stickle Island prompted his bouts of atypical chuckles. The very English, Orchard had taken a very English locale and built a quirky English tale with a cast of English characters. No doubt, if set in rural America, the anarchic DC, soused farmer Henry Stick, his bitter rival John, PC Paloney and erratic drug dealer, Carter would all be extraordinary eccentrics. But this story is set in the county of Kent on an island off the south coast of England. Tim Orchard uses his life experiences to fuel his fertile imagination and conjures up a believable place with realistic people, albeit quirky English people. This is a man who has a passion for writing. His dry British wit and smart economy of words make Stickle Island a deliciously funny read. And, the comfortable banter makes this another interview not to be missed.

Plus, we are very pleased to introduce you to a band out of London, Stick In The Wheel. We are raving about their new album, Follow Them True it has been on repeat play at Life Elsewhere tower for the past week or so. In this edition, you’ll hear, As I Roved Out and if you go to Life Elsewhere Music Vol 75, you’ll more cuts from this intriguing album.

Life Elsewhere is available at NPR One & iTunes

Sundays 12 noon ET at The Source WMNF HD3  
Mondays 5.00pm PT & Wednesdays 2.00pm PT at NWCZ Radion
Thursdays 6.00pm ET at Internet Radio Network
Fridays at 9.00pm GMT on Cornucopia Radio

If you miss any editions of Life Elsewhere, go here then go to the Listen On-Demand panel, choose the date of a show and click play.

Life Elsewhere Music airs:
Mondays at 6.00pm & Wednesdays at 3.00pm Pacific Time on NWCZ Radio
Fridays at 10.00am Eastern Time on IRN
Cornucopia Radio airs Life Elsewhere Music throughout each week
You can hear all the volumes over at Mixcloud