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Ken Kalfus' new novel about an astronomer obsessed with attracting the attention of Martians appears at first to be an homage to the scientific romances of H.G. Wells and the lost-world sagas of H. Rider Haggard. As the novel develops, however, its unique social commentaries emerge.

Last week, the Senate voted against a proposal for background checks on gun buyers. Several senators from states with strong pro-gun constituencies cast votes supporting the checks despite voter polls. On divisive issues, politicians may often face a choice between personal and public opinion.

The Supreme Court began recording arguments nearly 60 years ago, but for much of that time, audio was difficult for the public to hear or available only after long delays. But now, the court's entire audio collection has been digitized for easy public access.

The Associated Press, NPR and the BBC have all had their Twitter accounts hijacked in recent weeks. Hacks of high-profile accounts have real-world consequences, and the security at Twitter is coming under increased scrutiny.

The investigation into the Boston Marathon bombing continues. Investigators have spoken with the parents of the suspects in Russia. Audie Cornish talks to Dina Temple-Raston about the latest developments.

The U.S. Senate seems ready to let states collect sales tax from more online retailers. Support for the measure has increased as businesses have converged their online and offline sales. "We're looking for consistency" in how taxes are collected, says the owner of a St. Louis pet store chain.

When Superstorm Sandy flooded lower Manhattan last year, thousands of lab animals drowned and many scientists lost months or even years of work. The specialty animals can be very difficult to replace, but researchers say the loss of animal life is emotionally devastating and difficult to get over.

The government is about to change the way it accounts for the economic value of music and movies.

Third graders released some 72,000 lady bugs inside the Minnesota mall this week. They are an alternative to pesticides. The lady bugs protect the greenery by eating aphids.

Vermont lawmakers are considering a bill to let brewers ship their beer directly to consumers. The proposal faces the concern that underage drinkers might order beer, but wineries already do this.