Search Results for: General Interest

Perfect for fans of Remarkably Bright Creatures or anyone who enjoyed My Octopus Teacher, this little book offers a fascinating glimpse into one of the most distinctive animals on the planet

– Unravel the secrets of this astonishing animal and explore its mystifying world
– Learn about the rich folklore and myth surrounding the octopus
– Bite-size and easy to read chapters

Did you know an octopus can fit through a gap as small as a penny, but some can grow longer than a bus? Or that some species pack enough poison to kill humans within minutes? Or that they can problem-solve, navigate mazes and open locks, and that they can even have a favourite toy?

With their remarkable behaviours and unique anatomy, it’s hardly surprising that octopuses have captivated our imagination for centuries. But there is so much more to this misunderstood and spellbinding creature.

With this book, you will discover how octopuses utilize their three hearts and blue blood, how their highly developed nervous system endows them with extraordinary intelligence, how they regenerate their limbs, and so much more. Learn about the rich folklore and myths that surround them, from ancient maritime legends to symbolic meanings across cultures, and journey through their diverse habitats and history.

Whether you’re a marine biology enthusiast or just curious about these astounding cephalopods, dive in and uncover the magic and mystery of the octopus.

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.

If you’ve ever been curious about the rich culture and vibrant history of Ancient Greece, dive into this whirlwind tour and discover the highlights of this epic civilization

– Bite-size chapters help you learn about this fascinating civilisation
– Get to know influential figures from the period, and how Ancient Greek lifestyles and philosophy are relevant today

Although they lived over 2,000 years ago, the echoes of the Ancient Greeks can still be heard, loud and clear, today. From warfare and politics, to art, culture and everyday life, uncover their history with this fascinating little book, in which you will find the following and much more:

– A whistle-stop tour of the Ancient Greek timeline, from the Mycenaean civilization to the Roman conquest.
– Profiles of some of the most influential figures in politics, art and culture, from Homer to Pericles to Sappho.
– An insight into the daily life of an Ancient Greek citizen.
– The influence of Ancient Greece on the modern day, from democracy to the Olympics.

In this pocket-sized window into the past, discover the key events, people and trivia you need to know to understand this remarkable period of history.

If you’ve ever been curious about the rich culture and vibrant history of Ancient Greece, dive into this whirlwind tour and discover the highlights of this epic civilization

Although they lived over 2,000 years ago, the echoes of the Ancient Greeks can still be heard, loud and clear, today. From warfare and politics, to art, culture and everyday life, uncover their history with this fascinating little book, in which you will find the following and much more:

– A whistle-stop tour of the Ancient Greek timeline, from the Mycenaean civilization to the Roman conquest.
– Profiles of some of the most influential figures in politics, art, and culture, from Homer to Pericles to Sappho.
– An insight into the daily life of an Ancient Greek citizen.
– The influence of Ancient Greece on the modern day, from democracy to the Olympics.

In this pocket-sized window into the past, discover the key events, people and trivia you need to know to understand this remarkable period of history.

If you’ve ever been interested in the rich culture and epic history of Ancient Rome, dive into this whirlwind tour and discover the highlights of this mighty civilization

Growing from humble origins into a world-spanning empire, the Ancient Roman civilization has captured human imagination for generations. Uncover its history, from the legendary Roman army and its conquests to the art, culture and everyday life of its citizens, in this fascinating little book.

Within these pages you will find the following and much more:

– A whistle-stop tour of the Ancient Roman timeline, from the founding of Rome to the fall of the Roman Empire.
– Profiles of some of the most influential figures in politics, art, and culture, from Ceasar to Hadrian to Ovid.
– An insight into the daily life of an Ancient Roman citizen.
– The influence of Ancient Rome on the modern day, from architecture and trade to the calendar.

In this pocket-sized window into the past, discover the key events, people and trivia you need to know to understand this remarkable period of history.

If you’ve ever been interested in the rich culture and epic history of Ancient Rome, dive into this whirlwind tour and discover the highlights of this mighty civilization

Within these pages, you will find the following and much more:

– A whistle-stop tour of the Ancient Roman timeline, from the founding of Rome to the fall of the Roman Empire
– Profiles of some of the most influential figures in politics, art and culture, from Ceasar to Hadrian to Ovid
– Short, easy to read chapters and bite-size facts

Growing from humble origins into a world-spanning empire, the Ancient Roman civilization has captured human imagination for generations. Uncover its history, from the legendary Roman army and its conquests to the art, culture and everyday life of its citizens, in this fascinating little book.

In this pocket-sized window into the past, discover the key events, people and trivia you need to know to understand this remarkable period of history.

“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

From Sergeant Stubby to Antis the radar dog, meet the heroic hounds who put their lives on the line in this inspiring compendium of real-life war dog stories

We all know that a dog is a human’s best friend, but they are even more than that. The truth is that these courageous canines have been a lifeline for us during some of the toughest times in history. In fact, we might not be where we are today without them.

Filled with inspirational tales, this book is a moving tribute to the noble war dogs who supported their human comrades throughout the world’s most challenging conflicts. Whether serving as sentries, messengers or trackers, the dogs within these stories all share three things in common: bravery, intelligence and unwavering loyalty. Many of their efforts were rewarded with medals and titles at the time, but it is their legacies that will live on forever in our hearts. So, dive in to discover just how special, unique and essential to us our four-legged friends really are.

Step into the magical realm of paganism with this enchanting beginner’s guide to the religions of old

– PAGANISM is one of the fastest growing religions in modern times
– EXPLORE pagan identity and beliefs
– UNDERSTAND the Pagan calendar and festivals
– DISCOVER HOW TO incorporate Paganism into your own life

From Druidry and shamanism to modern witchcraft and Wicca, paganism is steeped in history, legend and ancient tradition, and is now one of the fastest-growing religions. Whether it’s the celebration of nature and its divinity, female empowerment through the veneration of the sacred feminine, or a way to commit to climate conservation and sustainability, paganism has drawn worshippers through the ages.

As well as outlining the pagan spiritual identity, including its history and development, pagan beliefs, and how the religion is practised, this beautiful book also explores:

– Pagan deities and their associated folklore
– The pagan calendar, including the eight festivals in the wheel of the year, what they represent and how they are celebrated
– The influence of modern paganism on popular culture

And much more!

Step into the sinister world of history’s most notorious villains and explore the twisted motivations of evil men from around the world

Ever wondered what has driven some men to commit the most heinous acts in history? The World’s Most Evil Men journeys through the recesses of human nature, offering a compelling look at some of the world’s most infamous villains.

This ultimate compendium unearths the chilling tales and dark motivations behind the deeds of ancient tyrants, ruthless dictators, serial killers and enigmatic cult leaders. From the brutal reign of Caligula to the sinister plots of modern-day despots, each chapter unveils the disturbing acts of the world’s most dangerous men.

This isn’t just a recount of evil deeds; it’s a peek into the psychological labyrinths that led to these historical horrors. Perfect for history buffs and crime aficionados alike, this book promises to keep you on the edge of your seat while providing an insightful look into the depths of human depravity.

Ready to meet the men who define evil? Dive in and prepare for a journey like no other.

Filled with terrifying tales of ghosts and ghouls, poltergeists and other unexplained encounters, this bone-chilling compendium of paranormal phenomena is sure to haunt you long after you have turned the final page

Did you hear about the ghost who solved her own murder? What about the terrifying case of the Battersea poltergeist? Do you know the story of the killer ghost of Kentucky?

Prepare for your blood to run cold and for your heart to beat a little faster, because the disturbing tales lurking within are not for the faint-hearted. Delve into this collection to discover infamous accounts of the eerie and the unexplained – as well as lesser-known strange, contemporary happenings from across the globe – and connect to the rich tradition of paranormal stories that have captivated humankind throughout the ages.

But beware: after sampling these sinister histories, you might be too scared to close your eyes – no matter how much your body craves sleep.

“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.

With candid quotes, upfront facts and a shedload of tidy trivia, this book covers the supersonic highs and catastrophic lows of the maddest, baddest rock’n’roll band on the planet

Whether it’s Liam’s salt-of-the-earth swagger, Noel’s carefully crafted songwriting or the collective Northern soul at the heart of their belting anthems – Oasis are simply unforgettable.

From the bad lads of Britpop to brotherly bust-ups, and from solo careers to one of the most highly anticipated reunions in music history, the band has been on a turbulent and triumphant journey.

Presented in this little book are bite-sized insights into the band’s notorious history, featuring:
– Uncensored banter and outrageous wit from the Gallagher brothers
– Facts and stories behind their enduring appeal and outstanding success
– Band trivia to test even the most dedicated superfan

No matter if you were there singing your heart out at Knebworth in ’96 or you’re discovering the phenomenon that is Oasis for the first time, this book will make you mad fer it!

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!

Ever been stuck for a phrase that sums up exactly how you feel? These hilarious foreign expressions have got you covered in every scenario!

– Creative and hilarious sayings from around the world to expand your repertoire
– Let someone know that it seems they slid in on a shrimp sandwich (they’ve had it easy in life!)
– Complete with the weird and wonderful foreign phrases you need to express yourself fully

With a variety of sayings from around the world, this entertaining compilation will equip you to insult your friends, proclaim your feelings and speak your mind in new and creative ways.

Discover expressions like:

– Tomaten auf den augen haben (German): You have tomatoes on your eyes – You’re not seeing what everyone else sees
– Sauter du coq a l’ane (French): To jump from the rooster to the donkey – To illogically jump between conversation topics

And many more!

A fascinating compendium of reported alien sightings, encounters and abductions, such as the mysterious Belgian UFO wave, the unusual Lubbock lights, and the infamous Roswell incident

What did Kenneth Arnold see flying above Mount Rainier?
What were the Phoenix Lights?
What really happened at the Battle of Los Angeles?

Humans have always looked to the skies and pondered what was up there. Throughout the centuries, science has provided us with many answers, but there are some mysteries that remain unexplained. In our modern world, many of us find ourselves asking the eternal conundrum, “Are we alone in this universe?”

This intriguing anthology examines incidents that were so puzzling they led witnesses to draw one inevitable conclusion: that aliens really do exist. Inside you will discover some of the most mysterious reports of UFO sightings, close encounters and alien abductions from across the globe. The real-life accounts within are compelling, bizarre and at times spine-chilling, each leaving you with a sense of wonder and a thirst to uncover the truth about life beyond our world.

A fascinating compendium of reported alien sightings, encounters and abductions, such as the mysterious Belgian UFO wave, the unusual Lubbock lights, and the infamous Roswell incident

What did Kenneth Arnold see flying above Mount Rainier?
What were the Phoenix Lights?
What really happened at the Battle of Los Angeles?

Humans have always looked to the skies and pondered what was up there. Throughout the centuries, science has provided us with many answers, but there are some mysteries that remain unexplained. In our modern world, many of us find ourselves asking the eternal conundrum, “Are we alone in this universe?”

This intriguing anthology examines incidents that were so puzzling they led witnesses to draw one inevitable conclusion: that aliens really do exist. Inside you will discover some of the most mysterious reports of UFO sightings, close encounters and alien abductions from across the globe. The real-life accounts within are compelling, bizarre and at times spine-chilling, each leaving you with a sense of wonder and a thirst to uncover the truth about life beyond our world.

Discover the fascinating properties of 52 common wild plants, where to find them and how to make the most of their powers with this beautiful and informational deck

Foraging is the perfect opportunity to get outside, find your way back to nature and connect with a long and rich tradition of herbalists and their remedies. This deck features clear full-colour photographs to help you safely identify each plant, as well as insights into their healing powers and other uses, making it the ideal, portable companion for your foraging ventures.

Whether you are a total beginner or an experienced forager, this guide is designed to be taken with you on your adventures into hedgerows, forests and woodland so that you may reap the benefits of this ethical, enjoyable and sustainable practice all year round.

This deck also includes:

– Invaluable advice on how to forage safely
– A helpful month-by-month foraging calendar
– Tips on foraging etiquette

Cunning, sadistic and deadly – the world’s most notorious lady killers are brought together in this shocking true crime compendium

What drives women to kill? Is it love, power, revenge? There is something both disturbing and fascinating about female murderers – how those perceived as the “gentler” sex can commit such atrocities. In truth, women have been the perpetrators of many violent crimes throughout history, and this book uncovers the lethal instincts of lady killers.

Filled with shocking true stories of female murderers across the globe, this anthology details their motives, crimes and victims and delves into the psychology of the killers’ minds. Cases span from poisonings to strangulations and shootings to stabbings, each crime a display of the cruelty of infamous femme fatales.

Whatever their motive – be it a crime of passion or an act of vengeance – this true crime compendium covers the heinous acts of the most monstrous women in the world. Whether you’re a true crime follower or simply curious, let the stories of these lady killers satiate your appetite for the macabre.

Discover practical hacks and invaluable tips to help you conquer the chaos of everyday life, one step at a time

Whether you’re drowning in a sea of physical clutter, tangled in a web of scattered goals, or overwhelmed by the mental chaos, this book has your back.

This simple, no-nonsense guide isn’t just about tidying up; it’s a life-changing toolkit for untangling the mess in both your physical and mental space. The super-achievable ideas in these pages will help you organize your stuff and organize your life for a more focused, intentional, and streamlined existence.

Inside you will find practical solutions to help you:
– Tackle the different categories of clutter in your home, one by one
– Manage your time and set helpful, achievable routines for ultimate well-being
– Conquer financial challenges and fine-tune your spending for peace of mind
– Create simple systems for keeping your clothes, paperwork, gadgets (and much more!) in order

Say goodbye to the overwhelm and say hello to a revitalized sense of control.

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.

Unlock the secrets of human behaviour and explore the thoughts, motivations and perspectives of the people around you in this beginner’s guide to personality psychology

If you have ever wondered what makes us who we are, then you are not alone. The reasons behind why we think the way we do have captured the minds of philosophers and scientists for hundreds of years, leading to the development of one of the largest branches of psychology: personality psychology.

Personality psychology examines our personalities and considers how they develop and vary from person to person. In this pocket-sized guide, you will discover the forces that influence our personalities, and in turn how our personality influences our actions.

In this accessible introduction, you will learn about:

· Theories and key thinkers who have pioneered the study of personality
· The different personality tests and what they tell us about people’s minds
· Personality disorders and how they can impact our daily lives

From Maslow to Jung, and Freud to Darwin, this fascinating little book is a perfect guide to personality psychology, for both novices and experts alike. Delve in and uncover the secrets of our minds and innermost selves.

Put your knowledge of real-life kidnappers, killers, con artists and thieves to the test with this gripping compendium of puzzles and trivia

Journey to the darkest corners of human nature and discover the events that have ensnared the interest of humankind across the globe and throughout time. Dive deep into this entertaining book, where the most notorious heists, cons and crimes are reimagined as puzzles.

From crosswords and counting conundrums to spot the differences and sudoku, whether you’re a true crime junkie or just morbidly curious, there’s plenty in these pages to sharpen your mind and shred your nerves.

Inside you will find a variety of puzzles, including:

– Spot the differences between the two detective boards
– Shuffle the letters to reveal three types of murderer
– Guide the stolen goods through the maze to the getaway vehicle
– Solve the trivia questions to uncover gruesome facts about notorious serial killers