Reader staffers share stories that fascinate, amuse, or inspire us.

Hey, did you read:

• About the background of the feud between the Senate and CIA? —John Dunlevy

• About the coal plant that captures carbon emissions while generating energy—and costs a mere $5 billion? —Mick Dumke

• About the death of malls? —Steve Bogira

• Charles Taylor on the overrated career of Meryl Streep? —Tal Rosenberg

• That there's a plan to host a miniature version of SXSW at the Chicago Cultural Center in the spring of 2015? —Leor Galil

• About the 20-pound cat that held its family hostage? —Brianna Wellen

• Or see First Kiss by Tatia Pilieva, a film showing ten pairs of (awfully attractive) strangers smooching? —Tony Adler

• This guide to the best and worst places to cry in New York City? —Brianna Wellen