Search Results for: General Interest

Learn everything you ever wanted to know about economics in this no-nonsense beginner’s guide

In a world where everything seems to get more expensive by the day – but most of us don’t seem to get any richer – it’s easy to feel confused about the economy. If you think it’s time you learnt how inflation works, what causes recessions and why the stock market is so unpredictable, then look no further. The Little Book of Economics will bring you up to speed on the basics of micro- and macroeconomics and demystify the world of taxes, trade, investments and finance, in simple English and with easy-to-follow examples.

By the end of this crash course, you will have a grasp on all the essential terms, concepts and theories you need to know to understand modern-day capitalism and markets. And you’ll also have the answers to questions like:
– Can inflation be a good thing?
– How does supply and demand work?
– Is immigration good for the economy?
– How do we prevent another global financial crisis?
– What is GDP, and what are the alternatives? and
– Why can’t we just print more money?

The best things in life are free!

It’s possible to enjoy fun-packed days without it costing you a fortune – or anything at all! Let the suggestions in this book inspire you to live out some amazing experiences without spending a thing. Bursting with ideas for cost-free activities, tips to help you live more economically, and pages for you to record your adventures, this book is the ultimate guide to thrifty fun.

Charge into this battle of wits and emerge victorious by putting your knowledge of military history to the test

Whether you choose to while away the hours or simply try a quick-fire quiz, there is plenty within these pages to hone your mental agility. You will need to be on the attack in order to prove your knowledge of everything from warfare and weaponry to tactics and troops, from ancient times to modern combat.

As well as anagrams to annihilate, trivia to target and crosswords to crush, inside these pages you will find a variety of puzzles, including:

– Solve the clues to find some of history’s most notorious missiles
– Conquer the crossword to reveal six classic drill instructions
– Decipher the anagrams to discover the battles that shaped the course of history
– Seek out the Allied fighter aircraft in the grid

What are you waiting for? Arm yourself with a pencil and answer the call of duty!

Bringing together inspiring quotes, superfan-level facts and a treasure trove of trivia, this little book is your backstage pass to the enchanting world of Taylor Swift

Whether it’s the relatable lyrics, the cathartic bridges or the songwriting genius behind it all, there’s just something about Taylor’s music that has captivated a global fandom. No matter what era you’re in, her resilience, determination and unique talent for storytelling will encourage you to stand tall, speak now and define your own reputation.

Exploring her extraordinary journey from a small-town girl to one of the most successful and empowered artists of the twenty-first century, A Little Bit of Taylor Swift features:

– A powerful dose of fearless words from the woman herself
– Insights into her personal life and illustrious career
– Trivia to test even the most avid addict

This heartfelt homage to Taylor, her fans and our enduring love story will make the perfect gift for any Swiftie.

If you’re intrigued by the question “What makes us human?”, strap in for this whirlwind tour of the highlights of anthropology

From the first steps of our prehistoric ancestors, to the development of complex languages, to the intricacies of religions and cultures across the world, diverse factors have shaped the human species as we know it. Anthropology strives to untangle this fascinating web of history to work out who we were in the past, what that means for human beings today and who we might be tomorrow.

This pocket-sized introduction includes accessible primers on:
– Influential anthropologists such as Franz Boas, Margaret Mead and Ruth Benedict
– The key branches of anthropology, from physical and linguistic anthropology to archaeology
– How anthropologists study topics such as communication, identity, sex and gender, religion and culture
– How we can approach one of life’s most enduring questions: what is it that truly makes us human?

This illuminating little book will introduce you to the key thinkers, themes and theories you need to know to understand the development of human beings, and how our history has informed the way we live today. A perfect gift for anyone taking their first steps into the world of anthropology, as well as for those who want to brush up their knowledge.

Escape the frantic pace of the everyday, reconnect with your wild side and discover the healing power of swimming outdoors

Nature is a balm for both the body and soul – and nothing comes close to the exhilaration of that first stroke in a lake, river or sea. Whether you’ve already taken the plunge or simply want to dip a toe in, this beautiful book is brimming with all the tips and inspiration you need to harness the invigorating benefits of wild swimming.
Within these pages you will discover:

· Why we are drawn to water, how it can wash away stress and enhance our well-being

· How to plan safe swims, finesse your kit bag and take the perfect underwater photo

· A collection of colour photographs of spectacular swim spots for your dip list

The great outdoors is waiting for you, so get out into the fresh air, find your way back to nature and set yourself free.

Tackle imposter syndrome with this practical and supportive guide: it’s time to ditch self-doubt and realize your true worth!

Do you constantly doubt your abilities?
Do you often feel like you don’t belong?
Are you convinced you’re a fraud and will eventually be found out?

If the answer to these questions is yes, yes, and most definitely yes, you’re not alone – a recent study revealed that 70 per cent of people will experience imposter syndrome at some point in their life. Constantly doubting yourself and feeling like you don’t deserve success, whether it’s in your professional or personal life, can take its toll on your well-being, so it’s important to confront your feelings and take steps to rid yourself of your doubts and fears.

Find out exactly what imposter syndrome is, how to identify it, and – most important of all – how to overcome it, with this helpful and supportive guide. Inside you’ll find:
– Practical tips on how to cope when your inner imposter takes over
– Fascinating information on the five types of imposters; from the perfectionist to the superhero, imposter syndrome manifests in different ways
– Inspiring quotes to build self-belief
– Simple tricks to boost your confidence
– Empowering affirmations to keep negative thinking at bay

Dogs can be boisterous, obedient, loyal and downright lazy! This book, which brings together stories, tips, trivia, quotations and poetry celebrating all the fascinating features of the dog, is for anyone whose tail starts wagging at the thought of relaxing with a good read and a warm, cuddly canine at their feet.

A book for bike lovers.
Whether for transport, leisure or sporting endeavour, cycling supports and inspires millions across the globe. This fact-filled miscellany looks at biking from its origins through to its remarkable scope and status in the present day. Covering cycling’s great races, athletes and anecdotes, Ride also provides practical tips on how to maintain your bike and improve your riding.

The world is yours to explore

The great outdoors is the beating heart of our world, but modern life is pulling us ever further away from it. Spending our time shut away indoors and hunched over screens, we’ve lost touch with nature, and it’s harming our health and our happiness. But it’s never too late to find our way back.

This book will help you find a way of reconnecting with the great outdoors. Whether you like to walk, run or swim, admire the wildlife or forage for wild foods, within these pages there will be something to inspire you to get out into the fresh air and reignite your sense of wonder at the world around you. Nature is a balm for the body and soul, so escape the pace of the everyday and set yourself free: get out there, find adventure, and go wild!

A wittily illustrated collection of incredible facts, perfect for lovers of strange-but-true trivia

What a weird and wonderful world we live in. Countries banning letters of the alphabet, the accidental teabag, and have you ever wondered how much horsepower a horse actually has? Well, you’ll be amazed and amused by the revelations and illustrations inside this book of fascinating facts – I shit you not.

From bestselling author and professional brain-teaser Hugh Jassburn, this quick-fire collection of unbelievable truths includes such insights as:

– A strawberry is not technically a berry, but a banana is
– There are twice as many kangaroos in Australia as people
– Baby tiger sharks eat each other in the womb until only one or two sharks are born
– 111,111,111 x 111,111,111 = 12,345,678,987,654,321
A superb addition to anyone’s bedside table or bathroom library, this book could help you win at your next quiz or at least give you a bunch of fun facts to spout when you’re out and about.

‘There are few things in life more heart-warming than to be welcomed by a cat.’
Tay Hohoff
They’re intelligent, inquisitive, regal and daft. The smallest thing can spark their curious natures, they’re always there for the times you need an extra cuddle, and with their soulful eyes and velvety paws, it’s no wonder that cats are one of our most beloved animals.
Packed with fascinating facts and trivia, heart-warming stories and inspiring quotes, For the Love of Cats is perfect for anyone who knows the incomparable joy of a purring feline companion.

‘To sit with a dog on a hillside on a glorious afternoon is to be back in Eden.’
Milan Kundera
Far above and beyond their loyalty and devotion, we love dogs all the more for their individual quirks and personalities – the funny sideways look they give you when you talk, the face-lick when you’re sad, the way they will chase a glimmer of light and yet stubbornly refuse to fetch a ball…
Packed with fascinating facts and trivia, heart-warming stories and inspiring quotes, For the Love of Dogs is perfect for anyone who values the trusty companionship of their favourite pooch.

A revised and updated edition of the bestselling guide to all things Ambridge, For the Love of the Archers contains extensive all-new content that will keep any fan of the show enlightened and entertained.

It’s been over 70 years since the familiar dum-di-dum-didum-di-dum of “Barwick Green” first brought The Archers to our airwaves, and in that time millions of listeners have followed the everyday lives of country folk in Ambridge.

Bringing together a wealth of fascinating facts, amusing insights and expert trivia about characters, controversies and country customs in one handy volume – now fully revised and updated to include recent developments – this companion is the perfect gift for avid addicts and keen newcomers alike.

Long-time Archers super-fan Beth Miller will be your highly engaging guide to every aspect of radio’s most enduring drama, including the following recurring features:

– Welcome to Ambridge takes you on a tour of all the key locations
– Meet the Characters profiles all your favourite personalities
– Memorable Moments celebrates some of the most entertaining and emotional episodes
– Gone But Not Forgotten remembers the dearly departed
– Quiz Night at the Bull tests your knowledge of the programme at regular intervals
For all this and much more, dive into this incredible miscellany and become a true Ambridge expert.

A revised and updated edition of the bestselling guide to all things Ambridge, For the Love of the Archers contains extensive all-new content that will keep any fan of the show enlightened and entertained.
It’s been over 70 years since the familiar dum-di-dum-didum-di-dum of “Barwick Green” first brought The Archers to our airwaves, and in that time millions of listeners have followed the everyday lives of country folk in Ambridge.
Bringing together a wealth of fascinating facts, amusing insights and expert trivia about characters, controversies and country customs in one handy volume – now fully revised and updated to include recent developments – this companion is the perfect gift for avid addicts and keen newcomers alike.
Long-time Archers super-fan Beth Miller will be your highly engaging guide to every aspect of radio’s most enduring drama, including the following recurring features:
Welcome to Ambridge takes you on a tour of all the key locations Meet the Characters profiles all your favourite personalities Memorable Moments celebrates some of the most entertaining and emotional episodes Gone But Not Forgotten remembers the dearly departed Quiz Night at the Bull tests your knowledge of the programme at regular intervals For all this and much more, dive into this incredible miscellany and become a true Ambridge expert.

Have you always wanted to know what makes an ordinary person commit a crime? Explore the dark side of human nature with this illuminating beginner’s guide to criminology.

There are few subjects more compelling or divisive than criminology. Whether crime dominates the headlines or just the subject of your latest boxset, our animal instincts have always drawn us to darkness and danger.

This pocket-sized introduction includes accessible primers on the key criminological thinkers, themes and theories, including:

· How disciplines such as economics, psychology and sociology have informed criminological study and our understanding of crime
· Why some individuals are more or less likely to engage in criminal behaviour
· The biggest issues facing contemporary society, such as cybercrime, gendered crime and hate crime

From understanding criminal motivation to how crime is policed and prevented, there has never been a more important moment to grasp how crime affects our lives today and how it might tomorrow.

Vajayjay. Lady bits. Notorious V.A.G.

It’s time we talked about vaginas. This pocket-sized book is here to debunk the myths and help you gain a better understanding of everything you were never taught, including:
– The amazing things the vagina does from puberty to menopause
– Advice on the most common complaints and how best to alleviate them
– The vagina in pop culture – from the page to the stage

This succinct and celebratory guide separates fact from fiction and will change the way you think and talk about your wonder down under.

‘History will be kind to me for I intend to write it.’
Winston Churchill
 
‘Britain has invented a new missile. It’s called the civil servant. It doesn’t work and it can’t be fired.’
General Sir Walter Walker
 
Order, order! After a long day at the dispatch box, when your honourable friend’s white paper has made you feel green and your poll ratings have slumped to a new low, hunker down in Speakers’ Corner with this grand coalition of political quips and quotes – you’ll be ready to take on the opposition at any time!

From farfalle and fusilli to fettucine and beyond, this pocket guide serves up a celebration of one of the world’s most popular culinary creations

Whether fresh, dried, baked into lasagna or swirled as spaghetti around your fork, pasta is fantastic. It’s so universal and versatile that we might even take it for granted sometimes.

But this humble and hearty food, with all its history and variety, deserves to be more fully understood and appreciated. Lifting the lid on all things pasta, this handy pocket guide will give you a taste of the following topics and much more:

Tuck in to the history of pasta, tracing its journey from Italian origins to global domination

Learn about the most popular (and the most unusual) pasta shapes, sauces and dishes

Whet your appetite with delicious bites of trivia

Hone your culinary skills and discover how to make your own pasta from scratch

Experiment with delicious recipes, allowing you to perfect classic dishes or expand your repertoire

Whether you’re a curious newcomer or a seasoned connoisseur, The Little Book of Pasta has all the mouth-watering information and inspiration you could hunger for.

A leisurely ramble through the woods, a meandering city stroll, a blustery seaside promenade or a vigorous mountain hike – all have their delights and incomparable joys. Whatever your walking style, you’ll be captivated and enthralled by the stories and excerpts of classic writing, trivia and practical tips in this book – perfect for anyone who loves the freedom of lacing up their hiking boots and heading for the hills.    

Religion flourishes around the globe in diverse forms, each uniquely fascinating and multifaceted, playing a central role in the lives of billions. From the five biggest faiths to the lesser-known creeds, this pocket guide offers an engaging introduction to world religions, exploring their history, beliefs, practices and personalities. It’s a starting point for anyone seeking deeper understanding of humanity’s spiritual side.

When can you spot the Hunter’s Moon, a Smiling Moon or a Pink Moon?

How can the phases of the moon help your garden grow?

What influence does the moon have on hamsters, coral and skylarks?

Navigate the rhythms of the night sky with this evocative collection of poetry, prose and precious wisdom. Illuminating the moon’s influence on the natural world and its depiction in folklore and the arts, this guide will open your eyes to the wonders of our brightest celestial neighbour.

Endless work deadlines, family and social responsibilities, runaway to-do lists, FOMO… do you ever wish you could press the pause button to catch a breath?

Discover ways to slow down time with this invaluable guide to slow living. It will not only boost your physical and mental well-being but enrich your relationships and help you to reconnect with what’s really important.

With practical advice on self-care, breathing techniques, mindfulness, ethical living and eating, and how best to cultivate quiet moments every day, Slow is your companion to a happier, calmer you.

Step into a world of gods, heroes and monsters

Throughout history, mythologies have been fundamental to societies and cultures across the world. They are the collected stories of a people – the fascinating folk tales and the epic legends that shape the history and the beliefs of whole civilizations.

This pocket guide offers readers an engaging and accessible introduction to the major world mythologies, exploring their origins, foundational stories and key mythological figures.

Learn how the Greeks won the ten-year Trojan war, how the Norse god Thor got his mighty hammer, and why the Aztecs made a daily human sacrifice to the sun god, Huitzilopochtli.

If you’re looking to enrich and expand on your understanding of world history, religion and culture, then this book is an ideal starting point to fill your mind with stories of wisdom and wonder.

Discover the captivating stories behind the following mythologies: Aboriginal, Aztec, Celtic, Chinese, Egyptian, Greek, Hindu, Incan, Japanese, Maori, Mayan, Mesopotamian, Norse, Roman.