Search Results for: Memoir and Biography

The hilarious misadventures of comedian Ian Moore continue as the family persist in their attempt to live a (sort of) French rural life, despite the unyielding realities of Frenchness, Britishness and a fair amount of self-inflicted chaos

For a decade, they’ve just about made it work: Ian commuting weekly to the UK comedy circuit, Natalie holding the fort in France with their three boys and a rotating cast of delinquent animals. But the cracks are starting to show. France is definitely home now, but if Ian can’t keep travelling for his stand-up career, something has to give. The solution, naturally, is obvious: he’s going to open a B&B.

Thirty years as a professional stage grump is no preparation for the diplomacy demanded by the hospitality industry – or the labyrinth of paperwork needed just to get permission to open. It would help, he’s told, if he became a French citizen like the rest of his family.

Always up for a challenge, Ian finds his health, sanity and finances stretched by bureaucrats, builders, bungling accountants, bossy medics, goats, horses, dogs and some very angry women in a swimming pool yoga session. His instinct is to revolt against the lot of them, but only real Frenchmen are allowed to do that…

Bonjour, Bedlam is funny, moving, outspoken and even practical in its own way – but surely nobody has fought the French this hard since Wellington?

Immerse yourself in a landslide of facts, quotes and trivia with this little book of killer Queen knowledge

· Discover fascinating facts guaranteed to blow your mind
· Read rousing quotes to bring out the stadium rockstar in you
· Answer challenging trivia that will weed out the losers from the champions

From their 1970 West-London roots to rocking the world at Live Aid in 1985, Queen are undeniably one of the greatest rock bands in history. Step into a world of chart-topping singles, genre-defining music videos, and decade-spanning glam and glory, and follow the groundbreaking group that changed the course of music forever.

Put on your most flamboyant threads, smarten up that moustache and prove that you are the no.1 Queen fan as you delve into everything you need to know about this global phenomenon. The show will always go on with this one-way ticket to destination Queen!

Take a magical mystery tour through the kaleidoscopic world of The Beatles with this little book on the biggest band in music history

· Discover fascinating facts and insights into the band’s helter-skelter history
· Read whispered words of wisdom that you can repeat eight days of the week
· Answer quiz questions and trivia, with or without a little help from your friends

Do you dream of diamond skies and strawberry fields? Dive into this celebration of the band responsible for pioneering rock and pop music as we know it today, uniting all the world with heartfelt, uplifting lyrics, and confusing them just as much with whimsical wordplay and coded messages.

Test and build your knowledge of the Fab Four, following them from 1960s Liverpool to global superstardom, where they would define popular music for generations to come.

So cross the Abbey Road, get into your Yellow Submarine and enter the world of The Beatles with this fun and fond homage to the most influential band in music history.

One of BBC Wildlife’s Books of the Year 2025

“A book of great courage, curiosity, discovery and connection.” – Amy-Jane Beer, author of The Flow

“Both gentle and fierce, as well as bravely and radically honest, I loved this book.” – Nicola Chester, author of Ghosts of the Farm

“Both ordinary and profound, Land Beneath the Waves charts a process most of us never manage: to give a true account of ourselves.” – Melissa Harrison, novelist, nature writer and author of The Given World

A moving, honest and revealing memoir of living with chronic illness, and an examination of the ways a relationship with the natural world can affect us, from debut author and Guardian country diarist Nic Wilson

When Nic Wilson begins researching the history of her local landscape and its wildlife, the last thing she wants to do is consider her own past. But as she unearths tales of giant sequoias, puss moths, nightingales and chalk streams, Nic realises her affinity with the nearby wild began as a way to handle growing up with a mother who lived with a debilitating chronic illness.

Now in her forties, and struggling with mental and physical health herself, Nic revisits her childhood to trace the influence of the natural world on her life. As she grapples with revelations from the past, the boundaries between self and land become increasingly porous, and the lure of the wetlands around her home threatens to engulf her. Can she find the strength to face the waves of chronic illness – past and present – and learn to reach for steady ground?

With the natural world facing more threats than ever before, Land Beneath the Waves inspires us to develop a meaningful bond with our local natural spaces and landscapes, illuminating a hopeful path towards a better future for human and non-human life.

Discover tales of ghosts, demons, monsters and more in this terrifying-but-true compendium of real-life horror stories

What was the Enfield poltergeist?
What happened at The Cecil Hotel?
Was Annabelle the doll really haunted?

Packed with terrifying tales of ghosts, monsters, demons and more, this book is a must-read for horror fans.

The world we inhabit is filled with strange happenings that we might never fully understand. While it may seem that stories of hauntings, exorcisms and killer clowns are the domain of horror fiction, the terrifying truth is that such sinister events can happen anywhere, at any time.

This creepy compendium takes a closer look at some of the world’s most bloodcurdling mysteries. From demonic possessions and curses to axe murderers and cultists, the events within are as fascinating as they are frightening, each one providing a glimpse into the dark and eerie side of our reality.

So, if you dare step into Real Horror Stories, make sure you find a safe and comfortable seat, switch the light on, and keep an ear out for things that go bump in the night.

From the bestselling author of Moderate Becoming Good Later comes the hopeful, honest and humorous story of one woman’s attempt to finish the challenge left to her by her brother: to sea kayak in every area of the Shipping Forecast

“A story of small braveries and the quiet strength found in honouring those we love.” – Freya Bromley, author of A Real Piece of Work and The Tidal Year

“A remarkable book.” – Charlie Connelly, author of Attention All Shipping

“A tender, human adventure that reveals what can unfold when you honour a promise and keep paddling forwards.” – Alastair Humphreys, author of Microadventures

Katie had never been in a sea kayak, but when her brother Toby died in the middle of his challenge to paddle in every area of the Shipping Forecast, she decided to honour his memory by completing his adventure. On a journey that takes her from the monotonies of motherhood in urban Barcelona to the far reaches of the Shipping Forecast through the wilds of the British Isles, Katie is forced to face her past and question her present, exploring the loss of her family members as well as her own identity. After two years of inelegant paddling and potentially worse parenting, can she complete the challenge?

Thundery at Times is not a story of battling high seas or completing daring tasks, but one of making your own rules and living life to the full. It is about finding joy and hope in nature, motherhood and middle age, in nurturing your own adventures and embracing connection and peace. It is a story of female resilience in the face of adversity; of staring down grief and asking, what’s possible from here?

As seen on the BBC Travel Show.

A moving collection of real-life stories of the rebels, resistance fighters, saboteurs, escapees and survivors who held on to hope through the horrors of the Holocaust

While naturally dealing with a sombre topic, this book reminds us that there was still hope among the horrors of Auschwitz, focusing on those who fought against their captors, those who resisted or sabotaged operations, those who found ways to bring hope to other prisoners, and those who escaped or survived the camp.

When Auschwitz was liberated in 1945, after the horror of one of history’s greatest atrocities, the world rejoiced. Although seven thousand people had survived this ordeal, the camp had also been witness to countless others who had resisted, sabotaged and even escaped from their captors. Some fought for their freedom or against injustice, and others disrupted Nazi operations. Then there were those who found ways to hold on to hope and positivity and spread it to their fellow inmates – a source of light in one of the world’s darkest places.

This book celebrates those heroes of Auschwitz, telling the inspiring true stories of the ordinary prisoners who became symbols of hope and defiance. At turns touching and uplifting, these stories show the best of humankind and are testament to the incredible resilience and bravery that shines through even in the toughest times.

Welcome to the vibrant, super graphic, glittery world of the global femininomenon, Chappell Roan

Serving hyper-femme looks, superstar stage presence and viral hit after viral hit, Chappell Roan is officially your favourite artist’s favourite artist. No one’s guilty pleasure, this Midwest princess continues to amass a loyal following as she injects a kaleidoscope of colour and queer culture into the music industry.

This bold book is a tribute to the singer and her supernova career. Featuring iconic quotes, fun facts and trivia to test true Popstars, these pages will ensure you’re hot to go on all things relating to Kayleigh Rose Amstutz, who goes by the stage name Chappell Roan.

Inside you will discover:
– Powerful quotes from the pop princess herself
– Insights into her life, dreams and career
– Trivia to earn a pass to the pink pony club

Prove you’re more than just a casual fan as you uncover everything you need to know about this super graphic ultra modern girl’s rise to stardom. Are you ready? Good luck, babe!

The 10th anniversary of the classic, best-selling running book, Your Pace or Mine?, from the co-author of Running Made Easy, with forewords by running legend Kathrine Switzer and Vassos Alexander

Lisa Jackson is a surprising cheerleader for the joys of running. Formerly a committed fitness-phobe, she became a marathon runner at 31, and ran her first 56-mile ultramarathon aged 41. And unlike many runners, Lisa’s not afraid to finish last – in fact, she’s done so in 20 of the 90-plus marathons she’s completed so far.

But this isn’t just Lisa’s story, it’s also that of the extraordinary people she’s met along the way – tutu-clad fun-runners, octogenarians, 250-mile ultrarunners – whose tales of loss and laughter are sure to inspire you just as much as they’ve inspired her.

This book is for anyone who longs to experience the sense of connection and achievement that running has to offer, whether you’re a nervous novice or a seasoned marathoner dreaming of doing an ultra. An account of the triumph of tenacity over a lack of talent, Your Pace or Mine? is proof that running really isn’t about the time you do, but the time you have!

Calling all Carpenters! This pocket-sized companion is a tribute to the viral pop star Sabrina Carpenter.

With her catchy tunes, bedazzled lingerie looks and iconic bouncy blowout, this busy woman has amassed millions of fans around the world. It’s no coincidence that her relatable lyrics, fun, flirty outfits and no-nonsense attitude have captivated so many people’s hearts; Sabrina’s popularity only continues to grow as she tops the charts.

From her Disney days to the Coachella stage, and now with smash hits that’ve been streamed billions of times, Sabrina’s journey to musical stardom is decoded in this book. If you have a taste for more, inside you’ll also find inspiring quotes, fun-sized facts and a treasure trove of trivia.

A Little Bit of Sabrina Carpenter contains:
– Short n’ sweet words of encouragement from Sabrina
– Insights into her personal life and rise to fame
– Trivia to test who among you is the sharpest tool

This homage to Sabrina, her music and her lipstick print on pop history will make the perfect gift for any Carpenter.

“A joyous rallying cry for middle-aged couch potatoes everywhere“ – Mike Parker, author of All the Wide Border

“Steve’s adventure reminds us all that wildness and countryside is never more than a bike ride away” – Alastair Humphreys, author of The Boy Who Biked the World

What would happen if you got on a bike in central London and didn’t stop riding until you hit the Welsh coast? Steve Silk, the best-selling author of The Great North Road, provides the answer over eight days, 300 miles and rather a lot of hills

Admittedly, he doesn’t take the direct route. Country lanes replace dual carriageways, castles and museums are preferred to service stations and there’s even a day-long diversion down the River Wye by canoe.

But seen from the saddle, he gets a much more intimate view of historic towns and cities like Oxford, Gloucester, Monmouth and Carmarthen, as well as the spectacular scenery in between. After all, which other direction out of London can offer three areas of outstanding natural beauty and two national parks in such short order?

Join Steve as he rides solo across England before being joined by three of his cycling buddies for the tougher terrain of Wales. Enriched with legends, humour and tales of friendship, Go West is a must for anyone who has dreamt of a cycling adventure.

A moving, honest and revealing memoir of living with chronic illness, and an examination of the ways a relationship with the natural world can affect us, from debut author and nature writer Nic Wilson

When Nic Wilson begins researching the history of her local landscape and its wildlife, the last thing she wants to do is consider her own past. But as she unearths tales of giant sequoias, puss moths, nightingales and chalk streams, Nic realizes her affinity with the nearby wild began as a way to handle growing up with a mother who lived with a debilitating chronic illness.

Now in her forties, and struggling with mental and physical health herself, Nic revisits her childhood to trace the influence of the natural world on her life. As she grapples with revelations from the past, the boundaries between self and land become increasingly porous, and the lure of the wetlands around her home threatens to engulf her. Can she find the strength to face the waves of chronic illness – past and present – and learn to reach for steady ground?


With the natural world facing more threats than ever before, Land Beneath the Waves inspires us to develop a meaningful bond with our local natural spaces and landscapes, illuminating a hopeful path towards a better future for human and non-human life.

“A magical and hugely captivating journey – filled with such beauty, wonder and surprise. A simply marvellous read, hugely recommended” – Stephen Fry

A real-life journey through the fantastical world of The Odyssey

It started with a boy, of course. Seeking solace from the pain of heartbreak and her father’s illness, Laura Coffey embarks on what was meant to be a simple holiday. But her newfound fascination with ancient Greek myths transforms her trip into a six-month odyssey, around tiny archipelagos and mystical Mediterranean islands thought to be the setting of Odysseus’s epic journey. As she chases one of the most conflicted, flawed and yet beloved heroes through his fantastical sea-kingdoms, looking for the places where geography and mythology collide, she discovers the wild beauty of the islands, and the redemptive powers of travel and nature, cold-water swimming, long hikes up mountains, and luminous star-lit skies.

But her quest to find happiness, safety and the true meaning of home is overshadowed by the deepening illness of her father. Returning as he’s dying, forced to confront the very things she was running from, Laura reflects on what she has lost, how to live between story and reality, and the way we craft our own mythologies. Slipping between the mythical realm and the real world, she finds enchantment and healing in the magic of both.

“If you love memoir and Greek mythology, this is a delight. A spellbinding book about growing up, grieving and the gods.” – Clare Pollard, author of Delphi

“Funny and messy” – The Mail on Sunday

Step into the fascinating world of Bristol Zoo with Alan Toyne, a dedicated zookeeper and primate expert whose extraordinary story of hand-rearing two baby gorillas will warm your heart

When Afia, a newborn Western Lowland Gorilla, is rejected by her mother Kera after a difficult birth, her human keepers must start the challenging – but rewarding – experience of hand-rearing her themselves. Teaching her the ropes of life in the Gorilla House at Bristol Zoo is tricky enough. But providing 24/7 care for a baby gorilla means Alan must hand-rear Afia in his own home too, an experience that forges a remarkable emotional bond between the two of them over the course of many sleepless nights.

Soon a second baby gorilla, Hasani, is facing rejection from his mother, and Alan and his colleagues must embark on a daring mission to train Kera – now recovered but socially isolated – to become Hasani’s surrogate mother. Can she learn to protect and love Hasani as her own, in a way she couldn’t for Afia? Can she find her maternal instincts and claim a place within the troop at last?

With a vibrant cast of characters – from the volatile Silverback Jock to the mysterious Sal and the stately Romi – Gorillas in Our Midst offers a unique glimpse into the intricate world of primate social dynamics, in all their complicated, human-like glory. More than just a behind-the-scenes look at zoo life, this thought-provoking and heart-warming memoir is a testament to the enduring bonds between humans and animals, and to the power of resilience and compassion.

Follow the misadventures of Ian Moore as he chronicles the charming and chaotic escapades of his family and their eccentric assembly of animals, on their continued search for serenity in rural France

After six years in the idyllic Loire Valley, comedian Ian Moore, his family and his ever-expanding menagerie are beginning to feel like they’re on the cusp of the peace and tranquillity they hoped for when they moved from dreary Crawley to la belle France. Their grand project, a writing school called Les Champs Créatifs, is finally complete – only, nobody’s signed up.

Natalie and the boys must contend with the ever-colourful locals, including a Sicilian faith healer, threatening hunters and the “Christmas Pudding Man”, and Ian must test his mod mettle against two new additions to the animal family – a pair of disappearing goats. With stresses, strains and animal poo mounting up, la famille Moore have their work cut out – but they’re determined to give it their best shot!

Whether you dabble or are a devoted drinker, if you’ve ever worried about the negative effects of alcohol, this book is for you. From boozy benders to finding the joy of sobriety, Sober Mama tells the story of one woman’s rollercoaster ride to abstinence and how it transformed her life

Regular hangovers, bad decisions and crippling anxiety were the norm for single mum Rachael Shephard. Every day she would relentlessly drag herself through the never-ending list of chores and a full-time job, trying to hold it all together while she was secretly falling apart. Her beloved Pinot Grigio was destroying her life one glass at a time, until one unassuming Thursday, when she finally broke free from the bottle.

Now, Rachael is a sober coach and happily navigating an alcohol-free life for the first time in twenty-five years. Through honest, relatable and outrageously funny anecdotes, Rachael shares her personal journey to sobriety and offers practical guidance for women around the world who want to ditch the drink for good.

“I cannot recommend it highly enough.” – Annie Grace, founder of This Naked Mind

Whether you dabble or are a devoted drinker, if you’ve ever worried about the negative effects of alcohol, this book is for you. From boozy benders to finding the joy of sobriety, Sober Mama tells the story of one woman’s rollercoaster ride to abstinence and how it transformed her life

Regular hangovers, bad decisions and crippling anxiety were the norm for single mum Rachael Shephard. Every day she would relentlessly drag herself through the never-ending list of chores and a full-time job, trying to hold it all together while she was secretly falling apart. Her beloved Pinot Grigio was destroying her life one glass at a time, until one unassuming Thursday, when she finally broke free from the bottle.

Now, Rachael is a sober coach and happily navigating an alcohol-free life for the first time in twenty-five years. Through honest, relatable and outrageously funny anecdotes, Rachael shares her personal journey to sobriety and offers practical guidance for women around the world who want to ditch the drink for good.

“It’s a must read for me.” – reader review
“Such a raw, real and often hilarious journey. Reading this was like having a great catch up with a mate.” – reader review
“I’m not a big reader at all but I couldn’t put this book down!” – reader review
“I wish I found this book in my early days of sobriety.” – reader review

Celebrate the wit and wisdom of Winston Churchill with this collection of inspiring quotes

Sir Winston Churchill had a wonderful way with words, motivating the masses with his quips, statements and speeches, and he is regarded as a British hero. His inspirational leadership led the nation to victory in the Second World War, and he continues to be a voice of strength, courage and perseverance, with his powerful quotes inspiring millions today.

This collection features over 140 of Winston Churchill’s wittiest remarks and sagest sayings. With quotes on life, education, philosophy and more, this book is a celebration of the former prime minister’s famous oratorical skills. It’s the perfect gift for history lovers, British patriots and literary fans alike.

Discover legendary Churchillian quotes such as:

– “If you’re going through hell, keep going.”
– “Never give in. Never, never, never, never.”
– “Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference.”
– “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.”

And many more!

“A joy to read. ” – Mary Colwell, author of Curlew Moon and The Gathering Place

“Tender, warm-hearted and honest…It’s Detectorists, but for nature, and without your own kit.” – Nicola Chester, author of On Gallows Down and Ghosts of the Farm

“The Volunteers gripped me from the first page.” – Vicki Hird MSc FRES, author of Rebugging the Planet

A Country and Town House book of the year 2024

A heart-warming true story of the woods and wildlife, conservation and community, perfect for fans of Detectorists and The Outlaws

When Carol’s world suddenly unravels, leaving her single and jobless, she stumbles upon an unexpected opportunity: leading a ragtag team of countryside conservation volunteers. At first glance, the prospect of nurturing Britain’s diverse wildlife in the great outdoors seems like a dream come true. However, reality paints a different picture: her office is a ramshackle porta-cabin overrun with mice and plagued by leaky ceilings, and the volunteers are far from impressed with her lack of practical skills.

Despite this rocky beginning, Carol gradually earns the respect of her eclectic group of volunteers, forging a tight-knit community that will grow to become essential to each member. This diverse group spans generations, from twenty-somethings to septuagenarians, with each of them looking to get something different out of volunteering, whether it’s a sense of purpose, a fresh start in life or a tick on their community service form. They also bring their unique quirks and life experiences to the mix.

Volunteer days soon evolve into the highlight of Carol’s week, as they bond over their love of nature, mental health battles, and the desire for companionship. As they work together outdoors, the team discover a simple yet powerful recipe for self-confidence, improved well-being and a newfound perspective on life’s challenges. This journey not only brings solace and new joys to Carol’s weeks, but eventually it helps her move on with her life, too.

The Volunteers is a heartwarming tale that celebrates the redemptive force of the woods and wildlife. It underscores the universal need for belonging and illustrates how, even in the most unexpected places, we can find a community to call our own.

“A gentle, warm, vulnerable book that buzzes and sings and blossoms… Donaldson shows that it is not just nature that benefits from working with the earth – the human soul heals and grows too. With lives as tangled and bright as the wildflowers in the verges, this book is a joy to read. ” – Mary Colwell, author of Curlew Moon and The Gathering Place


A heart-warming true story of the woods and wildlife, conservation and community, perfect for fans of Detectorists and The Outlaws

When Carol’s world suddenly unravels, leaving her single and jobless, she stumbles upon an unexpected opportunity: leading a ragtag team of countryside conservation volunteers. At first glance, the prospect of nurturing Britain’s diverse wildlife in the great outdoors seems like a dream come true. However, reality paints a different picture: her office is a ramshackle porta-cabin overrun with mice and plagued by leaky ceilings, and the volunteers are far from impressed with her lack of practical skills.

Despite this rocky beginning, Carol gradually earns the respect of her eclectic group of volunteers, forging a tight-knit community that will grow to become essential to each member. This diverse group spans generations, from twenty-somethings to septuagenarians, with each of them looking to get something different out of volunteering, whether it’s a sense of purpose, a fresh start in life or a tick on their community service form. They also bring their unique quirks and life experiences to the mix.

Volunteer days soon evolve into the highlight of Carol’s week, as they bond over their love of nature, mental health battles, and the desire for companionship. As they work together outdoors, the team discover a simple yet powerful recipe for self-confidence, improved well-being and a newfound perspective on life’s challenges. This journey not only brings solace and new joys to Carol’s weeks, but eventually it helps her move on with her life, too.

The Volunteers is a heartwarming tale that celebrates the redemptive force of the woods and wildlife. It underscores the universal need for belonging and illustrates how, even in the most unexpected places, we can find a community to call our own.

Follow the hilarious misadventures of Ian Moore and his family as their search for serenity in rural France leads them on a journey of chaos, commotion and comedy

Comedian, mod and professional grump Ian Moore has had enough. Tired of being unable to park anywhere near his cramped house in a noisy town he doesn’t like, he hatches a plan to move his wife and young son to a remote corner of the Loire Valley in search of serenity and space.

Several years later, Ian finds himself up to his neck in bilingual offspring, feral cats, promiscuous horses, dysfunctional spaniels and needy hens; he’s wrestling with electric fences, a foreign language, a mountain of animal waste and a wife who collects livestock like there’s a biblical flood on the horizon, all while trying not to dirty his pristine loafers.

But despite the ups, downs and increasing demands of Ian’s showbiz career, the Moore family persevere in true Brit style to create a unique, colourful and ultimately rewarding life in their new home – à la campagne!

Follow the hilarious misadventures of Ian Moore and his family as their search for serenity in rural France leads them on a journey of chaos, commotion and comedy

Comedian, mod and professional grump Ian Moore has had enough. Tired of being unable to park anywhere near his cramped house in a noisy town he doesn’t like, he hatches a plan to move his wife and young son to a remote corner of the Loire Valley in search of serenity and space.

Several years later, Ian finds himself up to his neck in bilingual offspring, feral cats, promiscuous horses, dysfunctional spaniels and needy hens; he’s wrestling with electric fences, a foreign language, a mountain of animal waste and a wife who collects livestock like there’s a biblical flood on the horizon, all while trying not to dirty his pristine loafers.

But despite the ups, downs and increasing demands of Ian’s showbiz career, the Moore family persevere in true Brit style to create a unique, colourful and ultimately rewarding life in their new home – à la campagne!

Having spontaneously bought a houseboat after a break-up, Hannah is plunged into life on the water, learning quickly how to deal with exploding toilets and disappearing hulls. When life threatens to sink her, Hannah embarks on an odyssey along Britain’s canals. An uplifting and hilarious story of a woman trying to keep her boat and life afloat.

All Boats Are Sinking is a memoir of love, life and chaos on a narrowboat, perfect for fans of Dolly Alderton, Helen Fielding and Phoebe Waller-Bridge

After a break-up, some hit the gym; some cut their hair; others have a one-night stand. In the aftermath of her break-up, Hannah bought a narrowboat.

Newly single and plunged into life on the water, Hannah had to learn quickly how to grapple with exploding toilets, disappearing hulls, and the curious glances and questions from pedestrians on the towpath. But when career burn-out, a global pandemic and an ill-advised rebound relationship threatened to sink her, Hannah felt the need to escape. In a bid to let go of the past and restore her sense of self-worth, she embarked on a narrowboat odyssey which took her from the bustling streets of London to the tranquil yet dramatic waterways of West Yorkshire.

Suffering from an apparent magnetism to drama but buoyed by her brilliant friends, Hannah tells of the challenges of off-grid life as a single 30-something on the water. All this as she tries to balance the tension between owning her singledom and giving in to a deep desire to find love.

Peppered with lists, recipes, maps, footnotes and diagrams, and spanning hundreds of miles of the British waterways, it’s an uplifting and often hilarious story of adventure and personal growth, and of a woman trying to keep her boat and life afloat. And to answer that perennial question: yes, it’s cold on the boat in winter.

“A vibrant, often hilarious emotional and physical journey. And let’s be honest, who hasn’t wanted to drift away on a narrowboat?” – Ian Moore, author of Death and Croissants

“A vibrant, often hilarious emotional and physical journey. And let’s be honest, who hasn’t wanted to drift away on a narrowboat?” – Ian Moore, author of Death and Croissants

All Boats Are Sinking is a memoir of love, life and chaos on a narrowboat, perfect for fans of Dolly Alderton, Helen Fielding and Phoebe Waller-Bridge

“All boats are sinking, Hannah, just at different rates.”

After a break-up, some hit the gym; some cut their hair; others have a one-night stand. In the aftermath of her break-up, Hannah bought a narrowboat.

Newly single and plunged into life on the water, Hannah had to learn quickly how to grapple with exploding toilets, disappearing hulls, and the curious glances and questions from pedestrians on the towpath. But when career burn-out, a global pandemic and an ill-advised rebound relationship threatened to sink her, Hannah felt the need to escape. In a bid to let go of the past and restore her sense of self-worth, she embarked on a narrowboat odyssey which took her from the bustling streets of London to the tranquil yet dramatic waterways of West Yorkshire.

Suffering from an apparent magnetism to drama but buoyed by her brilliant friends, Hannah tells of the challenges of off-grid life as a single 30-something on the water. All this as she tries to balance the tension between owning her singledom and giving in to a deep desire to find love.

Peppered with lists, recipes, maps, footnotes and diagrams, and spanning hundreds of miles of the British waterways, it’s an uplifting and often hilarious story of adventure and personal growth, and of a woman trying to keep her boat and life afloat. And to answer that perennial question: yes, it’s cold on the boat in winter.