EXCERPT :

I awoke at home that morning about the usual time, 6:00 a.m. The dawn chorus was singing merrily. I groped under the pil ow to locate the controller that opens the door and blinds, turns on the lights, and switches on the TV and radio. Measuring about ten by five by three centimeters, I hung it around my neck with a black bootlace, turned down the duvet, and moved to get out of bed.