Search Results for: General Interest

Step into the enchanting world of faeries, pixies, sprites and more with this beginner’s guide to the history and mythology of fae folk

People have long been mesmerized by the magic and mystery of faeries. From the winged spirits of Persian mythology to Shakespeare’s forest-dwelling troublemakers, there’s something about these beguiling creatures that has captured our attention for centuries.

Prepare yourself for a spellbinding adventure into the faerie realm with this essential introduction to all things fae. Just like the creatures themselves, this book is pocket-sized and full of magic, mirth and mischief.

Inside you will discover:
– The fascinating history and origins of faerie folklore
– The different characteristics and classifications of faerie, including pixies, brownies, dwarfs and more
– An overview of the legendary tales that shaped how faeries are viewed across different mythologies
– A summary of faerie depictions in the twentieth century and beyond, from the works of Tolkien to J. M. Barrie

For a reading experience filled with sparkle and wonder, all you need is this book, a comfortable chair, and a sprinkle of faerie dust.

Have you ever wondered…
How the Navy and the Marines came to be ‘royal’? How Samuel Pepys helped professionalise the Navy while at the same time penning his famous diary. What the origins of everyday expressions like ‘toeing the line’, ‘showing
your true colours’ and ‘piping-hot food’ are? Marvel at the magnificent vessels that have always been the backbone of the force, from the Tudor warship Mary Rose to the aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth, the largest warship ever built for the Royal Navy. Pay homage to the acclaimed naval heroes and the impressive battles that make up its illustrious history, from the Battle of Gravelines which saw off the Spanish Armada to the two world wars of the twentieth century and beyond, via the sea battles of the Napoleonic Wars. And learn about the remarkable people who serve in the Navy’s ranks today as its beating heart, in roles as widespread as conflict-prevention, counternarcotics, counter-piracy and humanitarian and disaster relief, ensuring that the Senior Service will retain its reputation for excellence for generations to come.

Step into the enchanting world of British and Irish folklore with this captivating introduction to the myth and magic of old

Folklore brings to life mythical creatures, fantastical knights and formidable spirits, and passes these stories down through the generations. From the famous Arthurian legends to monsters, sprites and faeries, The Little Book of Folklore explores the magical and mystical tales that have shaped the British Isles. Filled with stories of iconic characters like Robin Hood and Merlin, as well as lesser-known tales of the Green Man, giants and witches, this book is a beginner’s guide to this world of intrigue and wonder.

As well as the stories themselves, this beautiful little book also explores:
– Modern customs and traditions grounded in folklore, such as May Day and Halloween
– The deep connection between folklore and nature
– The historical context surrounding folklore and the insight it gives us into the beliefs of British and Irish people in times gone by

Discover the captivating stories behind the history of the British Isles and go on a journey through this land of myth and legend.

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!

Polish up on the art of becoming a true lady!
Are you…
Planning to visit a friend or family but don’t want to outstay your welcome? Going shopping on a budget but need to improve your negotiating techniques? Attending a formal event and would like to find the perfect ice-breaker? Bursting with witty, practical advice on the ins and outs of etiquette, from how one should dress for a formal occasion to what behaviour one should adopt while travelling abroad, this guide will help every modern woman to deport herself with poise and confidence. 

Polish up on the art of becoming the complete bachelor!
 Are you…
Attending a formal dinner but worried you won’t know which fork to use? Planning a trip abroad but unsure of what to pack? Joining a yachting club and need to know the correct attire?  Bursting with witty, practical advice on the ins and outs of etiquette, from how one should dress for a formal occasion to what behaviour one should adopt while travelling abroad, this guide will help every modern man to deport himself with poise and confidence.

For fans of The Tattooist of Auschwitz, The Librarian of Auschwitz and The Choice, this is the incredible true story of a British soldier POW.

In 1942, young British soldier Arthur Dodd was taken prisoner by the German Army and transported to Oswiecim in Polish Upper Silesia. The Germans gave it another name, now synonymous with mankind’s darkest hours. They called it Auschwitz.

Forced to do hard labour, starved and savagely beaten, Arthur thought his life would end in Auschwitz. Determined to go down fighting, he sabotaged Nazi industrial work, risked his life to alleviate the suffering of the Jewish prisoners and aided a partisan group planning a mass break-out.

This shocking true story sheds new light on the operations at the camp, exposes a hierarchy of prisoner treatment by the SS and presents the largely unknown story of the military POWs held there.

“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