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This charming compilation of 40 of the best-loved traditional nursery rhymes offers clues as to their true meanings and often surprising origins.

Many of the catchy songs we grew up with were not nonsense verses for the playground but served as satirical commentaries on political events of the day. These seemingly innocent vehicles were once used to spread subversive messages at a time when illiteracy was commonplace in society and direct criticism of the authorities was punishable by prison or death.

Sing a Song of Sixpence, a Pocketful of Rye, Four and Twenty Blackbirds Baked in a Pie… Was this simply about a delicacy of the day? Or was it, as some claim, a coded message used to recruit members for Blackbeard’s pirate ships?

This humorously illustrated book offers a trip down memory lane and some fascinating food for thought for anyone interested in English history and language.

Swearing is an art form, and with this handy collection of obscenities you can be the Picasso of profanity. Bursting with obnoxious insults and filthy names for unmentionable acts, The Little Book of Rude Words will leave you shocked and tickled by how creatively crude our language can be.

Whether you want to impress your friends with your London lingo, or simply to understand what the characters on EastEnders are talking about, The Little Book of Cockney Rhyming Slang is packed with all the words you’ll ever need. It’ll be perfect when you’re on the dog and bone to your best china plates, or down the rub-a-dub with your trouble and strife.

Banter like a bowsered giflurt and swear like a sparrow-mouthed snick fadger with the help of this illustrated dictionary of long-lost words and phrases.

This crude and quirky volume contains the most amusing vocabulary from the murky Middle English of Chaucer right up to the more eloquent but equally obscure parlances of the early 1900s – essential for all lovers of weird and wonderful wordage!

Who hasn’t dreamt of writing a bestseller?
Illuminating the best-known works of 50 celebrated authors, writing coach Tony Rossiter shows you exactly how they achieved their phenomenal success. With an expert eye he explains how each author began writing, and examines their style, techniques and routine for insights into their art.
Imitating the methods – rather than the content – of a favourite writer is an excellent apprenticeship for anyone who wants to master the craft of writing. And it’s how many of the most successful authors began. If you want to write a bestseller, this guide will set you on the path to success.

‘Do not hoard what seems good for a later place in the book… give it all.’
Annie Dillard
WRITE MORE – WRITE BETTER – WRITE NOW!
This colourful little book of uplifting quotes and tailored tips delivers motivational sparks and creative signposts for writers. Read it, write on it, put it in a frame on your desk – whatever you do with it, the aim is simple: to get you writing!

Feel confident in the ABCs of LGBTQ+

Language is a key path to awareness, acceptance and empowerment. It’s central to understanding the world and the communities we live in, but it can often be tricky to keep up with correct and ever-evolving terminology.

This easy-to-use dictionary introduces the most essential vocabulary surrounding LGBTQ+ identities. Whether you’re questioning your own identity or simply interested in learning more, this useful guide will help you navigate the world with knowledge, understanding and kindness.

Language is one of the key paths to awareness, acceptance and empowerment but honestly, it can be confusing for many people. This easy-to-use dictionary introduces some of the most essential terminology surrounding gender, sexuality and LGBTQIA+ identity. If you have questions about yourself or about the terminology, or even if you’re simply interested in learning more, this essential guide will help you navigate the world with knowledge and kindness.