Shell is accused of a "profiteering bonanza" after posting record first-quarter profits of more than $9.6 billion. / The Guardian

France's finance minister explains to his critics why he's published five novels in the last four years: "It's a need." / The Telegraph 

If the United States and China go to war over Taiwan, should Japan get involved? "There is no right answer." / Responsible Statecraft

With Brexit, Britain chose less prosperity for more sovereignty—and this year is expected to be the worst performing of the world's 20 biggest economies. / The Atlantic

Seven million people are on Britain's National Health Service's waiting list for treatment. / The Economist

The Federal Trade Commission wants to restrict Meta's use of data collected from users under the age of 18. / Quartz

What are the most popular PhDs among American billionaires? Engineering, computer science, biology. / Forbes

A survey of wildland firefighters finds about a third reporting experiencing suicidal thoughts. / The Los Angeles Review of Books

Photographs of "daredevils posed at Yosemite's cliff edges in days of yore." / California Sun

Why are screenwriters striking against the big studios? Because "Hollywood is the single best example of mature labor power in America." / How Things Work

A round-up of screenwriters' picket signs. / Twitter

See also: "Inflatable Scabby The Rat Keeps Trying To Give Striking Hollywood Writers Copy Of His Screenplay." / The Onion

How to preserve a medieval Italian ghost town. How to make people appreciate you more on Zoom calls. / Atlas Obscura, Business Insider

Members of Pixies apologize for "Where Is My Mind?" turning off people's alarm clocks. / Consequence Sound