- Table View
- List View
Black Country to Red China: One girl's story from war-torn England to Revolutionary China
by Esther Cheo YingBorn in pre-Revolutionary China and brought up in the Midlands, Esther Cheo Ying returned to China in 1949 after a traumatic childhood, convinced that there she would find the happiness and sense of belonging she longed for. Caught up in the turmoil of civil war and sympathetic to the Communist Revolution, she joined the Red Army and then stayed on to work in the new People's Republic. But despite her determination to make a new life in China could she truly be happy in a country which encouraged constant self-criticism and viewed her as a 'false foreign devil'? Black Country to Red China is an extraordinary account of life before the Cultural Revolution, but it is also a fascinating insight into one woman's struggle to come to terms with your own identity.
Black Country
by Liz BerryWINNER OF THE FORWARD PRIZE BEST FIRST COLLECTION 2014*PBS Recommendation 2014*‘When I became a bird, Lord, nothing could not stop me…’In Black Country, Liz Berry takes flight: to Wrens Nest, Gosty Hill, Tipton-on-Cut; to the places of home. The poems move from the magic of childhood – bostin fittle at Nanny’s, summers before school – into deeper, darker territory: sensual love, enchanted weddings, and the promise of new life. In Berry’s hands, the ordinary is transformed: her characters shift shapes, her eye is unusual, her ear attuned to the sounds of the Black Country, with ‘vowels ferrous as nails, consonants / you could lick the coal from.’ Ablaze with energy and full of the rich dialect of the West Midlands, this is an incandescent debut from a poet of dazzling talent and verve.
A Black Boy at Eton (Black Britain: Writing Back #11)
by Dillibe Onyeama'The story [Onyeama] had to tell was so gripping and shocking, it wouldn't let me go . . . A remarkably well-written memoir' Bernardine Evaristo, from the IntroductionDillibe was the second black boy to study at Eton - joining in 1965 - and the first to complete his education there. Written at just 21, this is a deeply personal, revelatory account of the racism he endured during his time as a student at the prestigious institution. He tells in vivid detail of his own background as the son of a Nigerian judge at the International Court of Justice at The Hague, of his arrival at the school, of the curriculum, of his reception by other boys (and masters), and of his punishments. He tells, too, of the cruel racial prejudice and his reactions to it, and of the alienation and stereotyping he faced at such a young age. A Black Boy at Eton is a searing, ground-breaking book displaying the deep psychological effects of colonialism and racism.A title in the Black Britain: Writing Back series - selected by Booker Prize-winning author Bernardine Evaristo, this series rediscovers and celebrates pioneering books depicting black Britain that remap the nation.
Black Beauty's Family
by Josephine Pullein-Thompson Diana Pullein-Thompson Christine Pullein ThompsonEveryone's heard about Black Beauty, probably the greatest horse that ever lived. But what about the rest of his family? Here we meet some of his other extraordinary relations, each with an amazing story to tell. There's his brother, Black Ebony, who is involved in a terrible mining accident; his great niece, Black Princess, a heroine in World War One; and then there's Black Velvet, a distant relation whose life as a show jumper is about to change dramatically.
Black Beauty (Puffin Classics)
by Anna SewellBlack Beauty is a handsome, sweet-tempered colt with a strong spirit. As a young colt he is free to gallop in the fresh green meadows with his beloved mother, Duchess, and their kind master. But when his owners are forced to sell him, Black Beauty goes from a life of comfort and kindness to one of hard labour and cruelty. Bravely he works as hard as he can, suffering at the hands of men who treat animals badly. But Black Beauty has an unbreakable spirit and will, and is determined to survive . . .With a wonderful introduction by award-winning author Meg Rosoff, Black Beauty is one of the twelve best-loved classic stories being launched in the newly branded Puffin Classics series in March 2008.
Black Beauty
by Anna Sewell"You saved your mistress's life, Beauty! yes, you saved her life" Black Beauty is the prettiest young horse in the meadows, and spends many happy days under the apple trees with his friends Ginger and Merrylegs. But this easy life comes to an end when Beauty is sold and goes from farm to inn to cabhorse in London, enduring rough treatment from foolish and careless masters. Beauty remains faithful, hardworking and full of spirit despite his trials, and through him we learn that all horses and humans alike deserve to be treated with kindness.BACKSTORY: Find out about the unusual author and learn some horsey vocabulary.
The Black Arrow
by Robert Louis StevensonCaught in the midst of England's War of the Roses, young Dick Shelton's loyalties are torn between a guardian who betrays him and the leader of the secret fellowship, "The Black Arrow". the Houses of York and Lancaster are locked in a brutal struggle for England's crown and the fate of the kingdom is at stake. Shelton finds himself entangled in the conspiracy. In order to survive he must distinguish friend from foe and confront the tests of war, shipwreck, murder and forbidden love.
Bitter Herbs: Based on a true story of a Jewish girl in the Nazi-occupied Netherlands
by Marga Minco‘The evening the men came I fled through the garden gate…’The Netherlands, World War IIWhen the Nazis invade the Netherlands in May 1940 it's clear that life is changing for the girl and her family. Step by step, the Nazis close in on the Dutch Jews. But when the authorities finally come to the family home a split decision will have devastating consequences.Marga Minco’s autobiographical novel Bitter Herbs is a Dutch classic that has been translated into more than fifteen languages. This deceptively simple and profoundly moving tale is now reissued with a new translation by Jeannette K Ringold.
Bitter Fruits: DI Erica Martin Book 1 (Erica Martin Thriller)
by Alice Clark-PlattsA stunning debut - part psychological thriller, part detective novel - from a powerful and distinctive new voice.The murder of a first-year university student shocks the city of Durham. The victim, Emily Brabents, was from the privileged and popular set at Joyce College, a cradle for the country's future elite.As Detective Inspector Erica Martin investigates the college, she finds a close-knit community fuelled by jealousy, obsession and secrets. But the very last thing she expects is an instant confession . . .The picture of Emily that begins to emerge is that of a girl wanted by everyone, but not truly known by anyone. Anyone, that is, except Daniel Shepherd. Her fellow student, ever-faithful friend and the only one who cares. The only one who would do anything for her . . .* * *Praise for Bitter Fruits:'There is a gripping, economic precision in this highly charged thriller.'Ralph Fiennes'Grabbed me from the first page and wouldn't let go. A compelling read, beautifully written ... A tense, captivating tale, brilliantly told'Rachel Abbott'Once I started reading it I couldn't stop. A brilliantly plotted and utterly gripping thriller.' Emma Kavanagh'Superbly gripping ... A very assured page-turning storm I read in one sitting.'Stav Sherez'A psychological police procedural ... An intelligent and thrilling debut.'Peter Guttridge, author and former Observer crime critic'Intriguing and sinister with masterful plotting and tension. A bittersweet read by a new crime author I can't wait to read again.' Mel Sherratt'A thought-provoking, atmospheric and emotional page turning thriller - brimming with mystery and suspense. I absolutely loved this novel, and devoured it from cover to cover.'Paul Pilkington
The Bitch And The Bastard
by Wendy HarrisPam and Janice, bitter rivals since schooldays, now work alongside each other for the same employer. Pam's having an affair with the boss, but doesn't stop Janice from flirting outrageously with him. There are plenty of hot and horny men around to fight over, however, including bad-boy Flynn who is after Pam! Whatever each of them has, the other wants, and things come to a head in an uproar of cat-fighting and sexual bravado.
A Bit of Me: From Basildon to Broadway, and back
by Denise Van OutenDenise Van Outen, original 90s 'ladette', West End star and primetime TV favourite, reveals for the first time the true story of grit and graft beneath the famous Essex sparkle.In this refreshingly candid memoir, Denise speaks openly and sensitively about her rollercoaster career, her struggles in a past high-profile relationship and the betrayal she suffered at the hands of those once closest to her, with the hope that in doing so, she can help empower others to avoid and overcome any similar difficulties they may face.Denise shot to fame on The Big Breakfast in her early twenties. After a decade grafting through theatre jobs and children's TV shows, she was finally living the dream. However her life soon turned into a nightmare off-screen and behind the headlines as her heart was broken in a very public relationship, whilst her every move was printed in the tabloids thanks to her phone being tapped. After receiving a panning by the critics for her late night TV show aimed at the post-pub crowd, she then auditioned for and accepted an offer to play Roxie Hart in Chicago, which turned out to be a life-changing experience. The role took her to Broadway, where she caught the eye of one Andrew Lloyd Webber, eventually landing a judging role on Any Dream Will Do, which saw her rise back to primetime and the career that she loves, where she has stayed and flourished. Now, in her first memoir, Denise tells her story with disarming candour, unafraid to reveal vulnerabilities beneath the cheerful exterior. Tackling difficult subjects of corrosive self-doubt, betrayal, invasions of privacy and professional struggles, interjected with the familiar humour that we all know and love, A Bit of Me is personal, at times raw, often mischievous and always compelling. Denise has lived the life, learned the lessons, and Basildon to Broadway and back is a hell of a journey.
Biscuiteers Book of Iced Gifts
by Biscuiteers Baking Company LtdChannel your creativity through beautiful biscuits and intricate icing with the help of BiscuiteersGive unicorns to your friends; wellies to Dad; love birds to your loved-one; and an apple to the teacher. This book is just bursting with perfect iced gifts for everyone.Brimming with famous Biscuiteers designs, along with exclusive creations you won't have seen before, this beautiful book shows how easy it is to bake, ice and assemble your own delicious biscuits and cakes at home.You will soon be able to master . . .· Biscuit, cake and icing recipes including tips and advice· Icing techniques, methods and easy-to-follow guidance· Gift wrapping ideas to suit every occasion· Themed designs from bikes to teapots, popcorn to hot chocolate toppers· Seasonal projects including winter, spring, summer and autumn designs· Biscuits for special occasions such as weddings, new homes and birthdaysBake a wreath for your door; baubles for the tree; candles for a birthday cake; and favours for a wedding. Whatever your taste, with the award-winning Biscuiteers by your side, you can create perfect biscuit gifts for every special moment.________'Express your creativity by making impressively iced biscuits as gifts - or just for yourself using Biscuiteers' step-by-step guide' Daily Telegraph'If you love giving homemade presents, these imaginative ideas could be just up your street' Homes & Gardens
The Biscuit Girls
by Hunter DaviesIvy, Dulcie, Barbara, Ann, Dorothy and Jean all had different reasons for applying to work at Carr’s biscuits, but once they had put on their overalls and walked through the factory gates they discovered a community full of life, laughter and friendship. To those who didn’t know, the biscuit factory that towered over Carlisle might look like just another slice of the industrial North, a noisy and chaotic place with workers trooping in and out at all hours. For the biscuit girls it was a place where they worked hard, but also where they gossiped, got into scrapes and made lifelong friends. Outside the factory walls there might be difficult husbands or demanding kids, and sometimes even heartbreak and tragedy, but they knew there would always be an escape from their troubles at Carr's. Some, like Barbara, only applied because she needed the extra cash, until things got a bit easier at home. Her supervisor cross examined her about who would be looking after the kids while she was at work, but let her have the job. Like many of the women who joined up ‘temporary’ Barbara went on to stay at Carrs for 32 years.Beginning in the 1940s, these heartwarming and vividly-remembered stories have all been told by the women themselves to Hunter Davies.
Biscuit
by Miranda Gore Browne'Miranda is the iced biscuit queen.' Mary BerryMiranda Gore Browne was a finalist in the hugely successful Great British Bake-Off series. She was a popular contestant throughout but it was her beautifully decorated, delicious signature biscuits that won the hearts of the audience and wowed the judges. In BISCUIT, Miranda presents the ultimate biscuit bible: a cookbook packed with more than 100 biscuit recipes. Ranging from classic favourites such as Bourbons, jammy dodgers and Viennese whirls to delicate pistachio macaroons, lemon drizzle biscuits and savoury nibbles, these are recipes that celebrate the joy and simple pleasure of sitting down to a bickie and shows how easy it is to enjoy a homebaked version. Miranda will also be revealing all her tips for how to decorate, wrap and box your biscuits to turn them into the perfect gift. Beautifully packaged with a stunning design and full-colour photography throughout, this is set to be a must for every baker's shelf. Move over cupcakes and whoopies, it's time to celebrate one of life's greatest British pleasures - the biscuit!
The Biscuit: The History of a Very British Indulgence
by Lizzie CollinghamBourbons. Custard Creams. Rich Tea. Jammie Dodgers. Chocolate Digestives. Shortbread. Ginger snaps. Which is your favourite? British people eat more biscuits than any other nation; they are as embedded in our culture as fish and chips or the Sunday roast. We follow the humble biscuit's transformation from durable staple for sailors, explorers and colonists to sweet luxury for the middling classes to comfort food for an entire nation. Like an assorted tin of biscuits, this charming and beautifully illustrated book has something to offer for everyone, combining recipes for hardtack and macaroons, Shrewsbury biscuits and Garibaldis, with entertaining and eye-opening vignettes of social history.
The Birthday Party: a beautifully evocative and enthralling trip down memory lane from multi-million copy seller Elvi Rhodes…
by Elvi RhodesAn emotional story of recollections and reminiscences, The Birthday Party sees multi-million copy seller Elvi Rhodes at her heart-warming best. Fans of Rosamunde Pilcher, Maeve Binchy and Erica James will not be disappointed.Readers are loving THE BIRTHDAY PARTY!'I just couldn't put this book down' -- ***** Reader review'Keeps you interested right up to the very last word' -- ***** Reader review'Wonderful' -- ***** Reader review**************************************************************************************************A LANDMARK BIRTHDAY BRINGS BACK MEMORIES - SOME HAPPIER THAN OTHERSPoppy's family is gathering to celebrate her eightieth birthday. Her children, grandchildren and even one great-grandchild are converging on her Sussex home.As she prepares to welcome them all, her mind goes back over her life - to her tough childhood in Yorkshire; to her mother - who scrimped and saved to bring her up decently; to her three husbands and to Alun, the great love of her life who was taken from her by the war.Yes, she has had a full life - a lot fuller than her family realises.As they toast their beloved matriarch, little do they know what an extraordinary and often shocking life she has led...
The Birth of Tragedy: Out of the Spirit of Music
by Friedrich NietzscheNietzsche's first published book, The Birth of Tragedy is a compelling argument for the necessity of art in lifeThis landmark work of criticism is fuelled by Nietzsche's enthusiasms for Greek tragedy, the philosophy of Schopenhauer and the music of Wagner, to whom the book was dedicated. Nietzsche outlined a distinction between two central forces in art: the Apolline, representing beauty and order, and the Dionysiac, a primal or ecstatic reaction to the sublime. He believed the combination of these states produced the highest forms of music and tragic drama, which not only reveal the truth about suffering in life, but also provide a consolation for it. Impassioned and exhilarating in its conviction, The Birth of Tragedy has become a key text in European culture.Translated by Shaun WhitesideEdited by Michael Tanner
Birth And Beyond
by Yehudi GordonWritten by one of the world's leading obstetricians, this extraordinary book takes a totally fresh look at what parenting means in the 21st century. Addressing both parents, the book looks at all aspects of life, through the nine months of pregnancy and the following nine of the baby's life. It is both a practical handbook for pregnancy, birth and the early months of a new baby's life, and a stimulating exploration of this period of enormous transition. Taking a holistic approach, it advocates integrated health care, i.e. both conventional and complementary therapies, and, with its exhaustive medical content, including a 160- page A-Z section, also acts as a superb source of reference.
Birdwatchingwatching: One Year, Two Men, Three Rules, Ten Thousand Birds
by Alex HorneAlex Horne is not a birdwatcher. But his dad is, so with the prospect of fatherhood looming on his own horizon, Alex decided there was no better time to really get to know both his father and his father's favourite hobby. So he challenged his dad to a Big Year: from 1 January to 31 December they would each try to spot as many birds as possible; the one who spied the most species would be the victor. Along the way Alex would find out what makes his dad tick, pick up a bit of fatherly wisdom and perhaps even 'get into' birdwatching himself.Join Alex as he journeys from Barnes to Bahrain in this charming tale of obsession, manliness, fathers and sons, and the highly amusing twists and turns of a year-long bird race.
Birds and People
by Mark CockerThere are 10,500 species of bird worldwide and wherever they occur people marvel at their glorious colours and their beautiful songs. We also trap and consume birds of every kind. Yet birds have not just been good to eat. Their feathers, which keep us warm or adorn our costumes, give birds unique mastery over the heavens. Throughout history their flight has inspired the human imagination so that birds are embedded in our religions, folklore, music and arts. Vast in both scope and scale, Birds and People explores and celebrates this relationship and draws upon Mark Cocker’s 40 years of observing and thinking about birds. Part natural history and part cultural study, it describes and maps the entire spectrum of our engagements with birds, drawing in themes of history, literature, art, cuisine, language, lore, politics and the environment. In the end, this is a book as much about us as it is about birds.Birds and People has been stunningly illustrated by one of Europe’s best wildlife photographers, David Tipling, who has travelled in 39 countries on seven continents to produce a breathtaking and unique collection of photographs. The book is as important for its visual riches as it is for its groundbreaking content.Birds and People is also exceptional in that the author has solicited contributions from people worldwide. Personal anecdotes and stories have come from more than 650 individuals in 81 different countries. They range from university academics to Mongolian eagle hunters, and from Amerindian shamans to some of the most celebrated writers of our age. The sheer multitude of voices in this global chorus means that Birds and People is both a source book on why we cherish birds and a powerful testament to their importance for all humanity.
The Birds and Other Plays
by AristophanesThe plays in this volume all contain Aristophanes' trademark bawdy comedy and dazzling verbal agility. In THE BIRDS, two frustrated Athenians join the birds to build the utopian city of 'Much Cuckoo in the Clouds'. THE KNIGHTS is a venomous satire on Cleon, a prominent Athenian demagogue, while THE ASSEMBLY WOMEN deals with the battle of the sexes as the women of Athens infiltrate the all-male Assembly in disguise. The lengthy conflict with Sparta is the subject of PEACE, inspired by the hope of a settlement in 421 BC, and WEALTH reflects on the economic catastrophe that hit Athens after the war.
Binding Promises
by G C ScottWhen Harold sells his flat, he also exchanges another kind of contract with the new owner: an agreement that involves his complete domination of an attractive, older woman who adores extreme restraint and rope bondage. And so his dark and intensely erotic initiation to the far reaches of control and sexual power begins in the most ordinary settings,with the most ordinary equipment. And despite being shocked at how far Samantha needs to go, can he resist taking her there?
The Bin Bears
by Scoular AndersonWhen the bin men find Dotty the Dinosaur, they put her up on the front of their truck. There she meets three other Bin Bears, called Posh, Threadbare and Dusty. The Bin Bears have lots of fun together. But Dotty doesn't really want to be a bin truck mascot. She'd rather be safely tucked up at home...An entertaining story from a very popular author/illustrator.
Billy Wizard
by Chris PriestleyThe first day at a new school is often tricky, and if the only person who befriends you claims to be a wizard you simply have to make the best of it! Joe is pretty certain that Billy has, as the teacher says, just got an over-active imagination but when he witnesses some pretty odd events at playtime, he's not quite so sure...This is a really engaging book for newly confident readers, which perfectly captures the way young children speak and behave, in the classroom, the playground and at home. It's a refreshing new take both on bullying and on magic.