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Chris Cleave's newest novel chronicles the friendship and rivalry between cyclists training for the 2012 Olympics. He speaks with NPR's Scott Simon about the fascination of athletic rivalries, how he got in shape for the book and what he hopes readers will take away.

British ceramicist Edmund de Waal is exhibiting his work at Waddesdon Manor, the historic country retreat of his distant cousin Lord Jacob Rothschild. The manor's lavishly decorated rooms are an unlikely space for such minimalist works, but the collaboration tells a story of collection, belonging and loss.

To make the cut, the tournament's ball boys and girls undergo months of rigorous training. They must remain stock-still during play, roll a perfect roll and bounce a perfect bounce. They must also have impeccable manners and complete command of the rules of the game.

Eugene Levy's career has ranged from the witty improv of such movies as Best in Show to the low comedy of American Pie and, most recently, Madea's Witness Protection. Levy talked to NPR's Scott Simon about his comedy origins and what unites his varied roles.

After the 2014 season, college football's national champion will be determined by a playoff system.

Congressional leaders say they are close to a deal on two issues with looming deadlines. But if Congress fails to lock down agreements this week, the federal highway program would come to a halt, and student loan interest rates would double.

The favored candidate in Sunday's presidential election is from the PRI, which ruled Mexico for decades, until it was ousted from power in 2000. Enrique Pena Nieto promises a different approach to drug violence and says he can boost a struggling economy.

Head of the European Central Bank Mario Draghi says the financial crisis has exposed the inadequacy of the euro monetary union. The head of the European Central Bank says flaws in the system need to be fixed.

In congressional campaigns, the incumbent tends to have an advantage. But because of redistricting and a young challenger with impressive fundraising totals, the race in California's 9th district is highly competitive.

The Bush-era tax cuts expire at the end of the year, along with the payroll tax break; the nation's borrowing authority bumps against its limit; and huge mandatory spending cuts — half targeting defense — are set to kick in. All this could trigger another recession, but Congress is unlikely to do much about it until after November's election.