Search Results for: General Interest

The dogs in this book won’t be donning red cloaks and tight, blue costumes. But they do have extraordinary abilities and out-of-this-world stories that make them super in their own right.

From fictional dogs to war-time dogs, faithful dogs to working dogs, life-saving dogs to dogs in space and science, the stories in this book tell the adventures of courageous, trustworthy and dutiful dogs, reminding us of the true worth of having a canine as a companion.

SHORTLISTED FOR THE SPORTS BOOK AWARDS 2024 – CYCLING BOOK OF THE YEAR

Being the fastest cyclist in the world at the start line means nothing if your mind isn’t strong enough to get you to the finish line

In 2018, Leigh Timmis became the fastest person to cycle across Europe – in just 16 days, 10 hours and 45 minutes – breaking the previous world record by an astonishing 8 days and 17 hours. But when he set out to break the record, Leigh wasn’t just trying to conquer the road.

As he prepared his body for this ultra-endurance world record attempt, Leigh realized that he would have to confront deeper problems to make it to the finish line. Although test results showed that he already had the physical ability of an elite athlete, something was holding him back: his troubled mind.

With the support of psychologists and sports science experts, Leigh confronted the past that had left him with vulnerabilities he would need to understand and overcome in the pursuit of performance. Then, cycling for 14 hours a day, from the west coast of Portugal to the edge of Siberia, he embarked on far more than just a physical journey.

The Race of Truth is the remarkable true story of personal transformation against the clock, and the astonishing feats we can accomplish when we face up to our deepest fears.

If you’ve always wanted to know how societies function – and why sometimes they don’t – this beginner’s guide to sociology has got the essential theories and thinkers covered

Sociology has almost limitless scope. From the smallest everyday interaction to the impact of vast systemic change, societies are brimming with fascinating phenomena we all want to understand more clearly.

There’s never been a more important moment to grasp what’s going on around us, and this pocket-sized guide offers an engaging introduction to the key sociological concepts and debates. It includes easy-to-follow coverage of:

The origins and development of modern sociology and the influence of foundational figures such as Durkheim, Marx and Weber

The major sociological schools or perspectives, from functionalism to feminism

How sociologists strive to test their theories ethically and carefully by using scientific research methods

The key topics in sociology, including inequality, class, crime, gender and race

How sociology can help us tackle new challenges and change our societies – and the wider world – for the better

Perfect for newcomers, or anyone seeking a concise breakdown of the subject, The Little Book of Sociology takes all the big ideas and makes them crystal clear.

Rally the troops – let’s head outdoors

Ex-Commando, proud dad-of-three and bestselling author of Commando Dad: Basic Training, Neil Sinclair is back with this briefing on how to inspire and entertain your kids in the great outdoors.

Suitable for children aged 3 and up, this illustrated field guide is loaded with dozens of activities, games and crafts for you and your troops to enjoy, including:
– Build a shelter in the woods
– Learn to tie knots
– Make a hotel for creepy crawlies
– Get creative with leaf printing
– Share campfire stories

These Forest School mission briefs will make sure your squad learns valuable skills, stays safe and has a lot of fun. Embrace the tried-and-tested Commando Dad approach to parenting and embark on some unforgettable outdoor adventures.

Far away from the bright lights of international rugby, there is another version of the game played by ordinary blokes of all shapes, sizes and degrees of physical ability.

Steven Gauge was the last person anyone would expect to find on a rugby field, being somewhat shorter than average, bespectacled and decidedly “unsporty”. But as a gentleman of a certain age when strange life choices are sometimes made, Steven chose to pick up a rugby ball and run with it.

He discovered a hidden and hilarious world of convoluted nicknames, creative interpretations of the laws of the game and the inevitable, beer-related, post-match mayhem. But he also found a heartfelt sense of belonging and camaraderie of the kind that only a good, honest team sport can provide.

So forget everything you think you know about rugby and join us on the touchline of Warlingham Rugby Club as Steven leads out the 4th XV. Welcome to the world of mud, sweat and beers…

A gripping compendium of some of the world’s most infamous and shocking mass murderers, such as John Wayne Gacy, the Boston Strangler, the Moors murderers and Harold Shipman, as well as some lesser-known figures

Who was the Zodiac Killer?
What drove Jeffrey Dahmer to dismember his 17 victims?
How many women really fell prey to Ted Bundy?

Maybe it’s because our animal instincts draw us to dangerous situations; maybe it’s because reading about predators allows us to learn about their behaviours in a safe setting. Whatever the reason, serial killers and their crimes have fascinated us for centuries.

This true crime compendium not only relates the disturbing events that transpired but also delves into the psychology of the perpetrators. The stories within are shocking and often difficult to comprehend, but with this deep dive into the world of the macabre, readers may gain a greater understanding of the motivations and thought processes of these murderers. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the psychology of crime and the human mind.

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.

‘For as long as I stay here, I know I will have to also get to the wild places.’
                                                                                                                  Robert Macfarlane
This pocket-sized miscellany, packed with tips on equipment, food, surviving bad weather and finding the right campsite, and with facts and stories from the world of camping, is perfect for anyone who knows the incomparable joy and adventure of pitching their tent under an open sky.
 

Do you spend hours on garden maintenance, leaving no time for the fun stuff? Would you like the chance to eat your produce before the pests get to them? Do you dream of an abundant garden that’s beautiful all year round? These and dozens of other gardening dilemmas are solved with this trusty guide filled with ingenious gardening hacks. Whether you’re a regular Best In Show looking for some time-saving tips or you’ve just planted your first seedlings and you want to learn more, Gardening Hacks is your fully illustrated manual to blossoming as a gardener.

Don’t let preparing for your driving test drive you up the wall! With tips from instructors and new drivers for both before and during the test, this little book is jam-packed with helpful advice to make sure that you are in fine form for the open road… and that you lose your L-plates rather than your cool.

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.

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?

“Vagabond is classic travel writing at its finest… Mark takes you on a journey through the heart of Spain which is rich in detail and bursting with life.” – Sir Ranulph Fiennes

This incredible true story of one man’s 1,225-km hike across the Iberian Peninsula is a celebration of rural Spain along the road less travelled

Inspired by a nomadic “vagabundo“ he met decades ago, Mark eschews the fast pace of modern life and sets off on a solo hike 1,225 km across the Iberian Peninsula – from Gibraltar in the far south to Estaca de Bares, Spain’s most northerly tip – carrying just a backpack and a hammock.

Hiking through sleepy siesta-hour plazas, shady cork forests and heat-shimmering plains, the hours would be long, dusty and hot. But, as Mark passes through the many small villages and communities en route, his trek comes to be characterized most of all by the sharing of stories, the true kindness of strangers, and the unbridled freedom of the open road.

Recounting Mark’s fascinating nomadic journey through Spain, including Extremadura, its least-visited region, Vagabond is a homage to the disappearing lifestyle of the vagabundo, as well as a celebration of rural Spain and its forgotten communities. It reminds us of the value of slowing down and finding connection with others, and the beauty that can be found in taking life one step at a time.

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.

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.

There’s more to being vegan than eating your greens…

A plant-based diet is the foundation of a vegan lifestyle, but you can do so much more to incorporate a cruelty-free approach into everyday life. Vegan Life highlights the simple, achievable ways you can show kindness to animals – and to the environment – not just with your choice of food but with the household products, clothing and cosmetics you buy too.

With tips on how to reliably spot vegan goods when shopping, DIY ideas for making your own organic cosmetic and cleaning products and, of course, essential recipes for delicious vegan food, this book makes it easy to live more ethically.

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

‘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!

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.

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.

‘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.