In today’s Escape, the best book towns for readers around the world, the wildcats you probably haven’t seen, and meet the man who started the Illuminati.

But first: Why did this ancient empire vanish from history? 

PHOTOGRAPH BY EMIN ÖZMEN

They fought the Egyptians, sacked Babylon, and built elaborate cities. So why did this empire vanish without a trace? Here’s how new discoveries are restoring the legend of this forgotten superpower.

More historic mysteries:
— This ancient script has remained unsolved for over a century
— It was America’s first English colony. Then it was gone.

IMAGE COURTESY LEEMAGE/PRISMA

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY JULIA PRZEDWOJEWSKA-SZYMAŃSKA, PASI

They're tiny, blobby, and glow in the dark. What exactly are they? Seriously, what is this creature?

A. Pigbutt worm
B. Leaf slug
C. Mystery blob
D. Immortal jellyfish

BEFORE YOU GO: Read about the colorful history of red lipstick.

Today’s newsletter was edited and curated by Jennifer Baik and produced by Alisher Egamov. Thanks for reading! Did someone forward this to you? Sign up for all our newsletters here.