The Forgotten
David Baldacci
Macmillan
While his skill with prose is subject to taste, David Baldacci can't be faulted in his delivery of what his fans want and expect of a page-turner. Add the return of Special Agent John Puller (from Baldacci's previous bestseller list-topper Zero Day) to the mix and there's certainly enough potential for some suspenseful notes, if not a full-on crescendo.
Fresh from his last mission for the US army's Criminal Investigation Division, John Puller is yearning for a spot of much-needed rest and recuperation.
Unfortunately, the old adage "be careful what you wish for" proves painfully true with the untimely death of his aunt in her retirement-age home in Paradise, Florida.
Wracked with guilt over his lack of contact with her, Puller arrives at the sunny seaside tourist getaway to begin his own investigation of the strange incidents described in Aunt Betsy's last letter.
There is rarely an ironic cliché left unused in Paradise, each of them circumscribed by the town's misleading name.
And as Puller and readers eventually discover, the snakes in the grass are nearer than one suspects.
How to apply for a drone permit
- Individuals must register on UAE Drone app or website using their UAE Pass
- Add all their personal details, including name, nationality, passport number, Emiratis ID, email and phone number
- Upload the training certificate from a centre accredited by the GCAA
- Submit their request
What are the regulations?
- Fly it within visual line of sight
- Never over populated areas
- Ensure maximum flying height of 400 feet (122 metres) above ground level is not crossed
- Users must avoid flying over restricted areas listed on the UAE Drone app
- Only fly the drone during the day, and never at night
- Should have a live feed of the drone flight
- Drones must weigh 5 kg or less
Dr Afridi's warning signs of digital addiction
Spending an excessive amount of time on the phone.
Neglecting personal, social, or academic responsibilities.
Losing interest in other activities or hobbies that were once enjoyed.
Having withdrawal symptoms like feeling anxious, restless, or upset when the technology is not available.
Experiencing sleep disturbances or changes in sleep patterns.
What are the guidelines?
Under 18 months: Avoid screen time altogether, except for video chatting with family.
Aged 18-24 months: If screens are introduced, it should be high-quality content watched with a caregiver to help the child understand what they are seeing.
Aged 2-5 years: Limit to one-hour per day of high-quality programming, with co-viewing whenever possible.
Aged 6-12 years: Set consistent limits on screen time to ensure it does not interfere with sleep, physical activity, or social interactions.
Teenagers: Encourage a balanced approach – screens should not replace sleep, exercise, or face-to-face socialisation.
Source: American Paediatric Association
