A few reasons why Zoom parties suck so much, some science-backed proposals to make them better, and a few platforms that are trying to do it. A website that will play that radio for you from anywhere in the world and any time going all the way back to 1900. And J.R.R. Tolkien’s house is up for sale.Sponsors:StoryWorth, Get $10 off your first purchase at StoryWorth.com/ridehomeCastleGrade, Enter code KOTTKE for 10% off at CastleGrade.comLinks:A Mission to Make Virtual Parties Actually Fun (Wired)Radiooooo Radiooooo: The Hit Tune Time Machine (The New Yorker) JRR Tolkien House Comes on the Market (NY Times)Save Tolkien's Home — Project NorthmoorLetters from Father Christmas, Centenary Edition by J.R.R. Tolkien Kottke.OrgJackson Bird on TwitterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.