National Lifestyle

CHICAGO (AP) — In July, in a packed classroom in downtown Chicago, a group composed mostly of early elementary teachers and child care workers read a story about “Wendi,” a fictional preschool teacher who loves reading but struggles in math .

“Holly” by Stephen King (Scribner) In half a century of writing horror novels, Stephen King has created some remarkable villains.

TORONTO — Tim Hortons has launched an online store selling a new line of clothing. The Toronto-based fast-food chain says its new TimShop.ca stocks a range of sweaters, T-shirts and joggers with a retro feel.

Celebrity birthdays for the week of Sept. 10-16: Sept. 10: Actor Greg Mullavey (“Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman”) is 90. Jazz vibraphonist Roy Ayers is 83. Actor Tom Ligon (“Oz,” ″Another World”) is 83. Singer Danny Hutton of Three Dog Night is 81.

NEW YORK (AP) — “Sure I'll Join Your Cult,” by Maria Bamford (Simon & Schuster) Comedian Maria Bamford has been a comic and actor for more than two decades, her high voice and quirky persona gracing countless stand-up stages and the occasional TV

When grilled perfectly, chicken skewers come away from the fire tender and smoky. Except perfection on a grill can be elusive; they just as easily finish tough and overcooked.

If you’ve ever lived off of tips or commissions, you may be familiar with the up-and-down paychecks common in certain industries.

TORONTO — On a sun-drenched August morning, filmmaker Atom Egoyan stands in the silence of a dim post-production room.

Molly McGlynn always knew she was going to make a movie based on her experience with a reproductive disorder that changed her life in “unimaginable ways.

TOKYO (AP) — A group of men who say they were sexually abused by a Japanese boy band producer have expressed hope the company will provide financial compensation and introduce measures to prevent a recurrence.