5 Things to Know This Morning

April 15, 2013— -- Your look at the five biggest and most buzz-worthy stories of the morning.

1. String of Attacks Kill at Least 31 in Iraq
A string of morning attacks in Iraq killed at least 31 people and wounded over 100 this morning. Many of the attacks involved car bombs and come less than a week before Iraqis can vote in the country's first elections since the 2011 U.S. troop withdrawal

2. Chavez Heir Chosen to Lead Venezuela
Nicolas Maduro, Hugo Chavez's hand-picked successor, has squeaked out a narrow victory in Venezuela's presidential election. His rival has demanded a recount.

3. Kobe Bryant's Achilles Surgery 'Successful'
Kobe Bryant's surgery to repair a torn Achilles' tendon was successful. The Los Angeles Lakers star will be sidelined for at least six to nine months as he recuperates according to his team and doctors.

4. 'Fifty Shades' Makes List of Challenged BooksAmerican Library Association has released its annual study of "challenged books" – the works subject to complaints from educators, parents, and members of the public. No. #4 on the list is "Fifty Shades of Grey."

5. 'Avengers' Wins Big MTV Movie Awards"The Avengers" took the top golden popcorn prize at the MTV Movie Awards, winning three awards. Writer-director Joss Whedon accepted saying, "This is the award that means the most to me. I am so grateful and very excited for 2015. We're going to bring you 'Avengers 2.'" Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper won for "best kiss" for their on-screen smooch in "Silver Linings Playbook."