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Fall Off, Get Back On, Keep Going: 10 ways to be at the top of your game!
by Clare Balding'Falling off' is all part of life. The trick is to know how to dust yourself off, get back on, learn from your mistakes - and keep going!Clare Balding, TV presenter, sportswoman and bestselling author has had some spectacular falls in her life - from not fitting in at school and falling in with the wrong crowd, to last-minute hiccups and mistakes on live TV - so she knows what it takes to embrace your mistakes and move on from them!With personal stories from Clare herself and from the lives of the people she most admires, children will discover how to develop courage in the face of tough situations. Find out how Charlotte Raubenheimer of South Africa completed a triathlon while in lockdown at home during the coronavirus pandemic. Marvel at the amazing story of US surfer Bethany Hamilton, who got back in the water just one month after she lost her arm in a shark attack, going on to win her first US national surfing competition two years later. Plus many more stories including that of Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt, US soccer superstar Megan Rapinoe, Dutch inventor Boyan Slat and Swedish climate change activist Greta Thunberg.With fun, quirky illustrations from Jess Holm, the 10 chapters of Fall Off, Get Back On, Keep Going explore 10 character-traits - RESILIENCE, PATIENCE, CONFIDENCE, COURAGE, FLEXIBILITY, CREATIVITY, SPEAKING OUT, MOTIVATION, KINDNESS and KEEPING GOING - that can help children to learn to embrace their mistakes, own them, and move on from them.
The Most Incredible True Football Stories - The England Edition (Unbelievable Football #3)
by Matt OldfieldFrom the winner of the 2020 Children's Sports Book of the Year Award, Matt Oldfield. Think you know everything about the Three Lions and the Lionesses? Have you heard of . . . *The naughty pitch-invading dog that stole the show at the 1962 World Cup?*The English amateurs who achieved Olympic gold?*The spy who snuck into training?*The incredible 2015 comeback of the England women's team?*The infamous World Cup handball that sealed England's fate?*The Lost Lionesses who made it big in Mexico?The beautiful game has always reigned supreme in England. These incredible and sometimes ridiculous stories may give you some idea of why. From penalty pain to unbelievable comebacks, discover some of the best true tales of our beloved national teams. Compiled by bestselling author Matt Oldfield, this is the third book in the award-winning Unbelievable Football series and the perfect World Cup gift for football fans everywhere.
The Most Incredible True Football Stories - The England Edition (Unbelievable Football #3)
by Matt Oldfield*THE PERFECT STOCKING FILLER FOR FOOTBALL FANS* Think you know everything about the Three Lions and the Lionesses? Have you heard of . . . *The naughty pitch-invading dog that stole the show at the 1962 World Cup?*The English amateurs who achieved Olympic Gold?*The spy who snuck into training?*The Lost Lionesses who made it big in Mexico?*The infamous World Cup handball that sealed England's fate? The beautiful game has always reigned supreme in England. These incredible and sometimes ridiculous stories may give you some idea of why. From penalty pain to unbelievable comebacks, discover some of the best true tales of our beloved national teams. Compiled by bestselling author Matt Oldfield, this is the third book in the award-winning Unbelievable Football series and the perfect gift for young football fans everywhere.Now includes the story of when the Lionesses came roaring back at Euro 2022.
The Secret Elephant: The true story of an extraordinary wartime friendship
by Ellan RankinDiscover the unbreakable bond between a baby elephant and her keeper in this heartfelt narrative set against the backdrop of World War II.As war looms on the horizon, things are changing at the zoo. Before, screeching monkeys dangled in trees, roaring lions sunbathed on the dusty ground and sniffling meerkats patrolled. But now, people have stopped visiting and there is talk of a great war.As bombs begin to fall and huge blasts echo around the zoo, a baby elephant and her keeper sneak to the safety and comfort of the keeper's home. Here, they weather out the worst of the war together in secret. But what will happen when their secret is found out?Based on the incredible true story of Denise Weston Austin at Belfast Zoo, this heartfelt narrative of their unlikely bond is brought beautifully to life by exciting debut talent and recent Cambridge MA graduate, Ellan Rankin.
Fall Off, Get Back On, Keep Going: 10 ways to be at the top of your game!
by Clare Balding'Falling off' is all part of life. The trick is to know how to dust yourself off, get back on, learn from your mistakes - and keep going!Clare Balding, TV presenter, sportswoman and bestselling author has had some spectacular falls in her life - from not fitting in at school and falling in with the wrong crowd, to last-minute hiccups and mistakes on live TV - so she knows what it takes to embrace your mistakes and move on from them!With personal stories from Clare herself and from the lives of the people she most admires, children will discover how to develop courage in the face of tough situations. Find out how Charlotte Raubenheimer of South Africa completed a triathlon while in lockdown at home during the coronavirus pandemic. Marvel at the amazing story of US surfer Bethany Hamilton, who got back in the water just one month after she lost her arm in a shark attack, going on to win her first US national surfing competition two years later. Plus many more stories including that of Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt, US soccer superstar Megan Rapinoe, Dutch inventor Boyan Slat and Swedish climate change activist Greta Thunberg.With fun, quirky illustrations from Jess Holm, the 10 chapters of Fall Off, Get Back On, Keep Going explore 10 character-traits - RESILIENCE, PATIENCE, CONFIDENCE, COURAGE, FLEXIBILITY, CREATIVITY, SPEAKING OUT, MOTIVATION, KINDNESS and KEEPING GOING - that can help children to learn to embrace their mistakes, own them, and move on from them.(P)2021 Hodder & Stoughton Limited
Billie Eilish: In Her Own Words
by Billie EilishLegendary recording artist Billie Eilish walks us through personal highlights and moments from the book as she reflects on photos from her life and career - both on and off the stage - for the first time in this fascinating audio accompaniment. <p><p>Billie Eilish is a 21st-century global pop phenomenon. Uncompromising and unapologetic, between her record-breaking, award-winning music and artistry, it's no surprise that she has become one of the biggest and most loved artists of her generation. <p><p>Contains never-before-told stories and recollections from her personal life and career, from the early years to her breakout success and including memories shared by her parents, this is an audiobook like no other - in her own words, providing a truly intimate window into her journey, narrated by Billie herself.(P)2021 Hachette Audio
Billie Eilish
by Billie EilishLegendary recording artist Billie Eilish shares an intimate inside look at her life - both on and off the stage - in this stunning, photo-filled book.Billie Eilish is a phenomenon. With distinctive visual flair and darkly poignant lyrics that are unparalleled among music icons of the 21st century, Billie is a musician who stands out from the crowd. Between her record-shattering, award-winning music and her uncompromising and unapologetic attitude, it's no surprise that her fanbase continues to grow by millions, month after month. She is that rare combination of both wildly popular and highly respected for her prodigious talent, a once-in-a-generation superstar.Now in this stunning visual narrative journey through her life, she is ready to share more with her devoted audience for the first time, including hundreds of never-before-seen photos. This gorgeous book captures the essence of Billie inside and out, offering readers glimpses into her childhood, her life on tour, and more. A must-have for any fan.Recommended for ages 14 and over.
Wild Life: The Extraordinary Adventures of Sir David Attenborough
by Leisa Stewart-SharpeJourney through the jungle and coral reefs, across the African plains and icy poles, and even to the Galapagos Islands, as you discover all there is to know about the world's best-known and best-loved naturalist, Sir David Attenborough, in this beautifully illustrated non-fiction picture book.From a childhood spent searching for fossils to his awe-inspiring work as a broadcaster and conservationist, learn about Sir David Attenborough's WILD life, as you experience iconic moments from his documentaries and are inspired by his untiring efforts to protect our planet.A perfect gift for budding naturalists and fans of David's wildlife documentaries.
Unbelievable Football 2: How Football Can Change the World (Unbelievable Football #2)
by Matt OldfieldThe ultimate gift and inspiring conversation-starter for every football-obsessed child in your life - by the winner of the 2020 Children's Sports Book of the Year Award.Did you know that football can change the world?Have you heard of . . .*The children who built a floating football pitch?*The match that stopped a nation fighting?*The girl who kicked down barriers to win the World Cup?*The footballer who fought food poverty?Uncover the most incredible and unbelievable stories of football changing the world for the better, and discover how you can too!Compiled by bestselling author Matt Oldfield, this is the second book in the award-winning Unbelievable Football series. Inspiring, entertaining and conversation-starting, this is a book for football fans everywhere.
Letters From Lockdown: Famous faces, frontline workers and stay-at-home heroes reflect on the year everything changed
by Natasha KaplinskyIntroduced by newsreader, presenter, and Barnardo's president Natasha Kaplinsky, Letters From Lockdown features 100+ letters from celebrity names, COVID heroes, and a diverse range of members of the public, all answering the question - 'What was lockdown like for you?'Contributors include: Paul McCartney · Joe Wicks · Malala · Ed Sheeran · Helen Mirren · Mary Berry · Richard Branson · Andy Murray · Helena Bonham Carter · Lenny Henry · Romesh Ranganathan · The family of Captain Tom · Bear Grylls · Dr Alex George · Jacqueline Wilson · Matt Lucas · Bill Gates · Sir Mo Farah and many more.The publisher will donate all profits, which will be a minimum of £1.50 for each copy of the book sold, to Barnardo's (registered charity in England and Wales no. 216250), who do important work to protect and support the UK's most vulnerable children.The letter writers include doctors and nurses, care home staff and vaccinators, train drivers, teachers and environmentalists - people who have been on the frontline tackling the pandemic, or in trying to get the world back on its feet. Other letters document the unforgettable lighter moments of the past year: interviews crashed by children, TikTok disasters, and goats joining Zoom meetings. Each offers their unique perspective on the year everything changed. As we keep our fingers crossed that this summer will bring a safe end to restrictions, this mixture of funny, sad, heart-warming, heroic and honest experiences will mark the start of a period of reflection.Adrian Packer, Al Gore, Alex George, Alexandra Shulman, Ali Mercer, Alice M Greenwald, Ali Joy, Andy Murray, Antony Cauvin, Anushua Gupta, Bear Grylls, Benjie and Georgia Ingram-Moore, Bill Gates and Melinda French Gates, Bob Wilson, Boris Johnson, Bruno Tonioli, Buckingham Palace, Charly Cox, Chimwemwe Chiweza, Chris and Vicki Agar, Chris Van Dusen, Clare Wenham, Colette Moreira-Henocq, Cressida Cowell, Davey Glover, Davina McCall, Dawn Bilbrough, Dot McCarthy, Ed Balls, Ed Sheeran, Elliot Jacobs, Emma Freud and Richard Curtis, Fergus Llewellyn, George Alagiah, Gill Edwards, Hayden Kays, Helen Mirren, Helena Bonham Carter, Hollie Long, HRH The Duchess of Cornwall, Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, Jacqueline Wilson, Jacquie Jenkins, James Graham, Jenny Messenger, Jo Malone, Joan Collins, Joe Wicks, John Vincent, Josie Naughton, Kathryn England, Karen Pollock, Karl Jones, Keir Starmer, Kelly Holmes, Laura Elliott, Lenny Henry, Lindsay Hoyle, Maff Potts, Maia Elliott, Malala Yousafzai, Margaret Keenan, Marie Benton, Mark Ronson, Maro Itoje, The Marsh Family, Mary Berry, Matt Lucas, Meggie Foster, Michele Walter, Mo Farah, Monica Galetti, Mr Men's Mr Happy, Neera Butt, Nicola Adams, Nina Raingold, Patricia Daley, Paul Atherton, Paul McCartney, Paul Morrison, Paula Talman, Peppa Pig, Philippa Craddock, Raymond Blanc, Rene Germain, Richard Branson, Roja Dove, Romesh Ranganathan, Rosie Jones, Rosie Mitchell, Sandi Procter, Scott Evans, Sean Fitzpatrick, Sharna Jackson, Sita Brahmachari, Sophie Gonzales, Tamara Rojo, Tanni Grey-Thompson, Tessa Mattholie Butunoi, Tim Peake, Tim Steiner, Toby Regbo, Trevor McDonald, Will Shu, Woody, Zoe Burke
The Superpets (and Me!): Amazing True Stories of Incredible Animals from the Nation’s Favourite Supervet
by Noel FitzpatrickDiscover amazing stories of the Supervet's most incredible animals, from bionic cats and dogs to hero hedgehogs and courageous chameleons!Growing up on the family farm in Ballyfin, Ireland, Noel Fitzpatrick spent his childhood tending to the cattle and sheep with his beloved sheepdog Pirate, who comforted him after he was bullied by the kids at school. This bond with animals inspired him to become a vet - but not just any vet, a SUPERVET!Noel has treated thousands of animals - many of whom were thought to be beyond help. Discover the incredible stories of the brave animals he has worked with, from Peanut, the world's first cat with two front bionic limbs, to Betsy, the six-month-old cockapoo, who was given a new lease of life when her crushed paw was replaced with a skateboard wheel!The perfect gift for young animal-lovers, packed with true tales that celebrate kindness, perseverance and the unbreakable bond between humans and animals. Noel Fitzpatrick's first non-fiction book for younger readers is inspired by his Sunday Times bestselling memoirs Listening to the Animals and How Animals Saved My Life, alongside brand new stories curated for children.
The Superpets (and Me!): Amazing True Stories of Incredible Animals from the Nation’s Favourite Supervet
by Noel FitzpatrickDiscover amazing stories of robotic dogs, heroic cats and the Supervet's most incredible animals.Growing up on the family farm in Ballyfin, Ireland, Noel's childhood was spent tending to the cattle and sheep with his beloved sheepdog Pirate, providing him with solace from the kids that bullied him at school. It was this bond with animals that inspired him to become a vet - but not any only vet, a supervet!Noel has treated thousands of animals - many of whom were thought to be beyond help. In this inspiring audiobook, young listeners will discover the amazing stories of the animals he has saved - from Peanut, the world's first cat with two front bionic limbs to Olive, the eight-year-old therapy dachshund who would come to be called 'the Wonder Dog'. This audiobook is packed with mind-blowing stories that celebrate kindness, perseverance, problem-solving and the unbreakable bond between humans and animals. Sometimes funny, often very moving, and hugely inspirational, this is the perfect gift for any child who loves animals. It is Noel Fitzpatrick's first non-fiction audiobook for younger listeners, following his Sunday Times Bestselling memoirs Listening to the Animals: Becoming the Supervet and How Animals Saved My Life: Being the Supervet and bestselling debut children's fiction audiobook Vetman and his Bionic Animal Clan.(P) 2023 Hodder & Stoughton Limited
Gamechangers: The History, the Stars, the Stats and the Goals!
by Eve AinsworthFrom the beginnings of the women's game, the sexist ban that lasted 50 years, to its glorious rise again and brilliant footballing heroes past and present, this is a celebration of all things women's football! Do you think you're a football-fan? Challenge your knowledge with this ultimate pocketbook of your Lioness footballing heroes. Young aspiring footballers will discover:The history of the beautiful gameMeet amazing star players like Leah Williamson, Chloe Kelly, Alex Scott, Steph Houghton and their incredible trophy-winning manager Sarina WiegmanLearn your favourite players' best movesPick your dream team using any player throughout historyCompare fact files and the stats that make these players the best in the gamePacked full of phenomenal wins, screaming goals, and extraordinary saves - this is everything you need to know about these history-makers, record-breakers and gamechangers. It's the perfect Christmas gift to inspire every young fan who cheered on as football finally came home.
Gamechangers: The History, the Stars, the Stats and the Goals!
by Eve AinsworthFrom the beginnings of the women's game, the sexist ban that lasted 50 years, to its glorious rise again and brilliant footballing heroes past and present, this is a celebration of all things women's football! Do you think you're a football-fan? Challenge your knowledge with this ultimate pocketbook of your Lioness footballing heroes. Young aspiring footballers will discover:The history of the beautiful gameMeet amazing star players like Leah Williamson, Chloe Kelly, Alex Scott, Steph Houghton and their incredible trophy-winning manager Sarina WiegmanLearn your favourite players' best movesPick your dream team using any player throughout historyCompare fact files and the stats that make these players the best in the gamePacked full of phenomenal wins, screaming goals, and extraordinary saves - this is everything you need to know about these history-makers, record-breakers and gamechangers. It's the perfect Christmas gift to inspire every young fan who cheered on as football finally came home.
ROAR: A Guide to Dreaming Big and Playing the Sport You Love
by Beth MeadDREAM BIG. PLAY THE GAME YOU LOVE. LET THEM HEAR YOU ROAR.Football hero Beth Mead grew up playing football on the pitches of North Yorkshire. She went on to become a football champion, role model and Golden Boot winner at the 2022 European Championships. She's here to help you find your sporting passion, work hard and achieve your dreams.From finding something you love, having fun and setting superstar goals to raising your game, working as a team and flicking your superstar switch, sport has the magic to help you achieve success in all areas of your life. But it's also about fun, freedom, friendship, focus and flair, and it is for EVERYONE.So stretch your legs, lace up your boots and discover Beth's insider tips, tricks and activities and for dreaming big and playing the sport you love.Written with bestselling children's author Matt Oldfield.
ROAR: A Guide to Dreaming Big and Playing the Sport You Love
by Beth MeadDREAM BIG. PLAY THE SPORT YOU LOVE. LET THEM HEAR US ROARThe debut children's audiobook from star player and Golden Boot winner of the groundbreaking Euro 2022 England women's team, Beth Mead.Drawing on her amazing trajectory from playing with the boys' team on the pitches of North Yorkshire to becoming a football champion and role model, Beth will inspire girls and boys everywhere to dream big, work hard and never give up. She'll share her insider tips, tactics and advice for playing the sport you love, finding your position and style and scoring a screamer of a goal. She'll shine a spotlight on some of the role models that paved the way for women's football and share her experiences of competing against the best players in the world. And she will inspire listeners, showing that what you learn on the pitch or in the sports hall can help you find success in other parts of your life too, including:*Following your passions *Staying focused and determined*Bouncing back from rejection*Being a team player*Growing in confidence*And more than anything, pursuing the things that make you happy and that you enjoy most So stretch your legs, lace up your boots and let them hear us roar ...(P) 2023 Hodder & Stoughton Limited
Remembering Our Queen: The Illustrated Story of Queen Elizabeth II
by Smriti Prasadam-HallsA commemorative picture book celebrating the life and legacy of Queen Elizabeth II, ideal for sharing with readers aged 8+. Follow Her Majesty's journey from a young princess growing up in wartime to an extraordinary leader - the longest-reigning British monarch in history. This very special illustrated book is the perfect way to share the Queen's life story with younger readers - from her childhood and service during the Second World War to the magnificent coronation and even a daredevil stunt at the London Olympics. Climb aboard the royal yacht Britannia, meet the 15 prime ministers she counselled and remember her wisdom to the nation and the whole Commonwealth through her Christmas broadcasts.And that's not all: during her seventy-year reign, Her Majesty truly witnessed it all - from colour television and Beatlemania to the birth of the internet. This commemorative book records not just the royal spectacles, but the entire Elizabethan age.From award-winning, bestselling author Smriti Prasadam-Halls, with beautiful illustrations from Josie Shenoy and Kim Geyer, this is a stunning tribute to the remarkable legacy of a much-loved queen. With a shimmering gold foil cover and plenty of quotes from the Queen herself, you'll treasure the book for years to come - in the reign of King Charles III.
Constantius III: Rome's Lost Hope
by Ian HughesThe acclaimed historian &“rescues from an undeserved obscurity one of Rome&’s emperors . . . A simply fascinating and extraordinary historical study&” (Midwest Book Review). Constantius is an important, but almost forgotten, figure. He came to the fore in or around 410 when he was appointed Magister Militum (Master of Troops) to Honorius, the young Emperor of the Western Roman Empire. His predecessor, Stilicho, had been murdered by his own troops and much of Gaul and Hispania had been overrun by barbarians or usurpers. One by one Constantius eliminated the usurpers and defeated or came to terms with the various invading groups. Most notoriously, he allowed the Visigoths to settle in Gaul in return for their help in defeating the Vandals and Alans who had seized parts of Hispania, a decision with far-reaching consequences. Constantius married Honorius&’ sister and was eventually proclaimed his co-emperor. However, the Eastern Roman Emperor, Honorius&’ nephew, refused to accept his appointment and Constantius was preparing a military expedition to enforce this recognition when he died suddenly, having been emperor for just seven months. Ian Hughes considers his career, assessing his actions in the context of the difficult situation he inherited.
Voices of the Second World War: A Child's Perspective
by Sheila A. RenshawVoices of the Second World War: A Childs Perspective is a collection of firsthand accounts from people who experienced the Second World War from all over Europe: stretching from Russia to the Channel Islands, and Norway to Malta.While some children appear to have been hardly aware of the war, for those who lived through bombing, occupation, deprivation, starvation and fear, the memories remain with them even today.The accounts have been relayed according to their perspective at the time and the contributors were happy to share their experiences and memories, keen in the knowledge that they were being documented as personal chroniclers of one of the twentieth century's most catastrophic events.
The Last Governor: Chris Patten and the Handover of Hong Kong
by Jonathan Dimbleby1 July 1997 marked the end of British rule of Hong Kong, whereby this territory was passed into the hands of the Peoples Republic of China.In 1992, Chris Patten, former chairman of the Conservative Party, was appointed Hong Kong's last governor, and was the man to oversee the handover ceremony of this former British colony.Within the last five years of British rule, acclaimed journalist Jonathan Dimbleby was given unique access to the governor which enabled him to document the twists and turns of such an extraordinary diplomatic, political and personal drama.As Governor, Patten encouraged the necessary expansion of Hong Kong's social welfare system, striving to reconcile the basic rights and freedom of over 6 million people with the unpredictable imperatives of Beijing.Drawing on the insights of a host of senior figures, the author places the crisis in both its human and historical contexts, and presents some startling arguments about the conduct of British foreign policy on Hong Kong before and during Patten's tenure.
Adolf Hitler: Rare Photographs from Wartime Archives (Images of War)
by Nigel BlundellA rare, revealing, and chilling photographic history of Adolf Hitler—from mollycoddled child to vile propagandist to despotic madman. One of the most intriguing mysteries about the rise of history&’s most despised dictator is just how utterly ordinary he once seemed. A chubby child, a mama&’s boy, an idle student, a failed artist, self-pitying outcast, and just another face in the crowd. The early images of Adolf Hitler give no hint of the demonic spirit bent on global domination. Only later in his tortured life came the metamorphosis, and the mask fell away to reveal a monster. Adolf Hitler: Rare Photographs from Wartime Archives traces this dramatic process in photographs—some iconic, some rare and intimate. And they are all revealing in their gradually subtle and disturbing transformation, demonstrating the mesmerizing power that Hitler wielded not only over the German public but also statesmen, industrialists, and the global media. Many culled from the author&’s private collection, the photographs collected here provide unique insight into the mind of a megalomaniac and architect of the twentieth century&’s most unfathomable atrocity.
Joseph Stalin: Images Of War (Images of War)
by David A. SemeraroJoseph Stalin was a monster. He sacrificed his friends and allies in pursuit of power, murdered thousands with sadistic brutality to maintain it and callously obliterated millions more of his own people over a quarter century of his leadership. Yet almost as frightening as the horrendous crimes he committed is the idolatry that allowed this ogre to flourish. Just like fellow monster of the twentieth century Adolf Hitler, Stalin saw himself as a master of destiny, a role that to him excused the vilest atrocities. And, bafflingly, just like his Nazi counterpart, he was allowed to dominate his nation and overrun others with the enthusiastic support of the majority of the citizens whom he had subjugated. Stalin was lauded as a national savior right up until his death, which was marked by mourning crowds so vast that untold numbers perished in the crush. This unquestioning adulation is not only a mystery to todays historians but a cause for alarm. For, under the Soviet Unions present regime, there are signs that the Stalin cult is being resurrected as the Russian bear again sharpens its claws. This concise book presents a cautionary study, in words and historic photographs, of the peasants son from Georgia who as a choirboy seemed destined for the priesthood but who grew up to be a street-fighting revolutionary using torture and terror as tools to attain power. It asks how the coarse, brutish drunkard that he became could nevertheless have been lauded abroad as a cultural giant and spellbind so many millions at home as an object of worship. It provides clues as to how Stalin the military incompetent came to be seen as a statesman of equal standing to war leaders like Churchill and Hitler (whose lives are covered by companion volumes in the Pen & Sword Images of War series). And it points to the danger of rewriting history to allow the resurrection of Stalin as a father of his people in the twenty-first century rather than a bloodstained idol with feet of clay.Also Available by Nigel Blundell, from the Images of War series, Images of War Winston Churchill and Images of War Adolf Hitler.
Gaius Marius: The Rise and Fall of Rome's Saviour
by Marc HydenGaius Marius was one of the most remarkable and significant figures of the late Roman Republic. At a time when power tended to be restricted to a clique of influential families, he rose from relatively humble origins to attain the top office of consul. He even went on to hold the post an unprecedented seven times. His political career flourished but was primarily built on military success. First serving in the Numantine War in Spain, he later rose to high command and brought a long-running war in North Africa to a successful conclusion, bringing the Numidian King Jurgurtha back in chains. His return was timely as northern barbarian tribes threatened Italy and had previously defeated several Roman armies. Marius reformed and retrained the Republic's forces and decisively defeated the invaders that had easily overpowered his predecessors. Marius' subsequent career was primarily that of an elder statesman, but it was dominated by his rivalry with his erstwhile subordinate, Sulla, which ultimately led to the latter's bloody coup. Marius, once hailed as the savior of Rome, eventually became a desperate fugitive, literally fleeing for his life from his pursuers. However, after several harrowing brushes with death, Marius seized an opportunity to return to Rome and mete out justice to his enemies, which tarnished his once-enviable reputation.
Septimius Severus & the Roman Army
by Michael SageA detailed account of Severus&’ reign with particular emphasis on his military campaigns against the Parthians and the Garamantes in North Africa. The assassination of Emperor Commodus in 192 sparked a civil war. Septimius Severus emerged as the eventual victor and his dynasty (the Severans) ruled until 235. He fought numerous campaigns, against both internal rivals and external enemies, extending the Empire to the east (adding Mesopotamia), the south (in Africa) and the north (beyond Hadrian&’s Wall). The military aspects of his reign, including his reforms of the army, are the main focus of this new study. After discussing his early career and governorship of Pannonia, Michael Sage narrates his war with Pescennius Niger, the siege of Byzantium, and the campaign in northern Mesopotamia that added it as a province. The much more difficult campaign against Clodius Albinus in Gaul is also studied in detail, as is that in North Africa. The narrative concludes with an account of the last campaign in Britain and Severus&’ death. The final chapters analyze Septimius&’ reforms of the army and assess their impact on events of the next seventy years until the accession of Diocletian. His greatest weakness was his love for his family. Like Marcus Aurelius he loved his children too much. They failed to maintain what he had bequeathed them.&“Sage performs a masterful job putting Severus into a broad strategic overview of the times.&” —The Historical Miniatures Gaming Society&“Highly recommended to fans of the Roman Empire, and of the Roman Military, old and new alike. It is easily accessible and well written, and it features research of the highest quality.&” —Ancient Warfare
Lady of the House: Elite 19th Century Women and their Role in the English Country House
by Charlotte FurnessThree accounts of remarkable women who oversaw their own households, stamped their authority on the estates they managed, and overcame misfortune. This book tells the true stories of three gentile women who were born, raised, lived and died within the world of England&’s Country Houses. This is not the story of &‘seen and not heard&’ women, these are incredible women who endured tremendous tragedy and worked alongside their husbands to create a legacy that we are still benefitting from today. Harriet Leveson-Gower, Countess Granville—second-born child of the infamous Georgiana, Duchess of Devonshire—married her aunt&’s lover, raised his illegitimate children and reigned supreme as Ambassadress over the Parisian elite. Lady Mary Isham lived at Lamport Hall in Northamptonshire with her family where, despite great tragedy, she was responsible for developing a house and estate while her husband remained &‘the silent Baronet.&’ Elizabeth Manners, Duchess of Rutland, hailed from Castle Howard and used her upbringing to design and build a Castle and gardens at Belvoir suitable for a Duke and Duchess that inspired a generation of country house interiors. These women were expected simply to produce children, to be active members of society, to give handsomely to charity and to look the part. What these three remarkable women did instead is develop vast estates, oversee architectural changes, succeed in business, take a keen role in politics as well as successfully managing all the expectations of an aristocratic lady. &“The book looks at both the lives of the women and the buildings that they transformed.&” —The Creative Historian