Biography: adventurers and explorers Books
The History Press Ltd Captain Cook in Cleveland
Book SynopsisCaptain James Cook was one of the world''s greatest explorers. He was born in 1728 in the tiny farming village of Marton in North Yorkshire, now part of modern Middlesbrough. This book presents an account of Cook''s life. It examines his early life in Cleveland, up to the time he joined the Navy.
£9.49
The History Press Ltd One Familys War
Book SynopsisFeatures the real-life saga of the experiences of the Pushman family in the Second World War. Illustrated with family photographs, this book gives the reader a personal glimpse into both the changing role of women and civilian life throughout the troubled years of the private experience of this family in the Second World War.
£13.49
The History Press Ltd The Scottish Crown Jewels and the Ministers Wife
Book SynopsisIn 1651, Oliver Cromwell invaded Scotland and desperately wanted to get hold of the Scottish Honours, or crown jewels, the symbol of the spirit and soul of Scotland, in order to destroy these icons and further his Parliamentarian cause. In a desperate bid to save the Regalia from certain destruction, a local minister, James Granger, and his wife Christian Fletcher entered the stronghold of Stonehaven Castle in order to rescue them from under the noses of the English. By hiding the jewels under her skirts, Christian Fletcher got away and buried them in the graveyard of the local church for safety. Together with her husband, Fletcher protected the Crown Jewels for eight long years, until the political changes of the Restoration meant it was safe to return them to their rightful place. But in the muddy waters of history, the name Christian Fletcher has been long forgotten, and a local Marshall, John Keith, took the credit for the safekeeping of the jewels, saying he kept them overseas for
£15.29
The History Press Ltd From Churchills War Rooms Letters of a Secretary
Book SynopsisPublished for the first time, this illuminating and poignant correspondence offers a rare insight into the workings of the Cabinet War Rooms towards the end of the Second World War, and documents the rich wartime experiences of a woman with exclusive access to the closed world of Churchill''s inner circle.1939-1945 saw many important events of the Second World War. Yet a young secretary, Olive Christopher, was party to the political secrets of these crucial final years, working in Churchill''s Cabinet War Rooms.Trade Review'One of the most atmospheric eyewitness accounts of that time' -- Elizabeth Grice * The Daily Telegraph *
£22.06
The History Press Ltd Tommy Turnbull
Book SynopsisMy name is Tommy Turnbull. I''ve been a coalminer all my life. My father was a miner, so was my grandfather, my uncles, my cousins and my brother. Wherever there''s a pit, you can bet there''ll be a Turnbull somewhere down there.
£13.49
The History Press Ltd Cleopatra
Book SynopsisA critically acclaimed life of the infamous Queen of Egypt.
£9.49
Tempus People of Ancient Egypt
Book SynopsisCovering specific individuals of ancient Egypt, this book highlights individuals from the Old Kingdom down to the end of Cleopatra''s reign: kings such as Akhenaten, Horembeb and Ramses II; queens and other influential women; officials like Imhotep, Sennemut and Ramose. It is also illustrated by a range of photographs and surviving artefacts.
£17.09
The History Press Ltd Antony Cleopatra
Book SynopsisThe immortal lovers of novels, plays and films, Antony and Cleopatra were reviled by contemporary Romans, but history has transformed them into tragic heroes. Their blending of politics and sex led to the ruin of both, since their main rival Octavian-Augustus was able to portray Cleopatra as the arch enemy of Rome and Antony as her consort.
£17.09
The History Press Ltd Fighter Master Folland and the Gladiators
Book SynopsisAlthough Henry P. Folland never received the public acclaim accorded to the Spitfire and Hurricane''s designers, more than 7,000 examples were built of the seventeen fighters he designed. His first biplane fighter, the Royal Aircraft Factory''s S.E.5/5a, fought in the First World War with the Royal Flying Corps; his last, the 1934 Gloster Gladiator, equipped ten Royal Air Force Fleet Air Arm squadrons during the Second World War. Between the wars Henry Folland was responsible for the designs of fourteen other fighters, with Gladiators being exported to thirteen countries. Here Derek N. James, renowned aviation historian and author of nineteen books, relates the fascinating story of Henry Folland''s days as a Lanchester Motor Co. apprentice and his move to Daimler Motor Co., which was to change his life, before his prolific sixteen years with Gloucestershire (Gloster) Aircraft Co. A major section of the book is devoted to the Gauntlet and Gladiator with special contr
£15.29
The History Press Ltd Blind Jack of Knaresborough
Book SynopsisJack Metcalf was blinded by smallpox at the age of six, but he did not let this stop him from leading an astonishing and adventurous life - becoming an expert horseman, gambler and guide. He eloped at the age of twenty-one; ran numerous enterprises; joined the military as a musician, and led the Yorkshire Blues onto the battlefield at Culloden.
£13.49
The History Press Ltd Cartimandua Queen of the Brigantes
Book SynopsisThis is the first major study of Cartimandua, queen of the Brigantes tribe in Northern Britain in the first century AD. Little is known about the tribal ruler, who fought off rebellion and civil war and managed to keep her lands when many other British leaders were forfeiting theirs in the aftermath of the Roman conquest of AD 43. Her story is one of power, intrigue, scandal and accusations of betrayal and yet surprisingly she is a figure who is often overlooked and marginalised in studies of British history.Using historical and archaeological sources, Nicki Howarth re-examines the story of a queen who ruled independently in such unsettled times, where a strong leader adapted to circumstance in order to survive. Indeed with Roman support she held her position as queen until AD 69, whilst managing to prosper in the new Imperial world that was reluctant to acknowledge her role. Written in an engaging style, with many references to popular culture, this
£20.89
The History Press Ltd Blackbeard
Book SynopsisEdward Teach, better known as Blackbeard, was one of the most notorious pirates ever to plague the Atlantic coast. He was also one of the most colourful pirates of all time, becoming the model for countless blood-and-thunder tales of sea rovers. His daring exploits, personal courage, terrifying appearance, and fourteen wives made him a legend in his own lifetime.The legends and myths about Blackbeard have become wilder rather than tamer in the 250 years since his gory but valiant death at Ocracoke Inlet. It is difficult for historians, and all but impossible for the general reader, to separate fact from fiction. Author Robert E. Lee has studied virtually every scrap of information available about the pirate and his contemporaries in an attempt to find the real Blackbeard. The result is a fascinating and authoritative study that reads like an exciting swashbuckler. Lee goes beyond the myths and the image Teach so carefully cultivated to reveal a new Blackbeard - infinitely mor
£9.49
The History Press Ltd The Woman Writer
Book SynopsisSince its creation in 1894 by Joseph Snell Wood, the Society of Women Writers & Journalists has attracted the company of many famous women writers, journalists, poets and playwrights. From its early days when at least 200 women applied to join, the Society has expanded to become a world-renowned body, with members both in the United Kingdom and abroad. To celebrate the centenary of the birth of the SWWJ''s much-loved President of twenty-two years, Joyce Grenfell, the Society''s archivist, Sylvia Kent, reveals the long and fascinating history of the Society. Not only is the evolution of the Society fully explored, but also the lives of many of its members have been thoroughly researched to paint a vivid picture of how the Society has gone from strength to strength. Accompanied by images of the Society''s members, both past and present, this book will interest not only members of the SWWJ, but is a must-read for women writers everywhere.
£13.49
The History Press Ltd A Bristol Soldier in the Second World War Hebert
Book SynopsisHaving been lucky to suvive a German air raid on his Bristol home, Herbert Haddrell''s personal account of the harrowing experience of being called up and sent to Normandy, where he was seriously wounded after 43 days of battle, is a fascinating and moving story. Using Herbert''s recollections and some valuable letters, diaries and accounts of fellow soldiers, this book reveals the tale of a nineteen-year-old caught up in the midst of one of history''s darkest moments. Supplemented with background information about the war and life in Bristol, this volume also includes rare photographs and archive material from the author''s personal collection. Compiled by Herbert''s son, this book is a poignant reminder of the terrible ordeal that so many brave young men had to face in order to defend king and country, and perhaps even more importantly, their families and homes.
£17.09
The History Press Ltd Father of the Blind
Book SynopsisIn August 1914, Arthur Pearson, a newspaper magnate and founder of the Daily Express, learned of a Belgian soldier who was languishing in a London hospital. The man had been blinded by a rifle bullet during the siege of Liège, and Pearson felt sympathy for the man, having himself been blinded by glaucoma. He resolved to work to prevent blinded Allied servicemen from returning home, only to slip into hopeless and useless lives. He therefore opened St. Dunstan''s in 1915, a hostel where returning soldiers could learn to be blind, where they were taught Braille and a trade, equipping them to re-enter the world as useful and self-respecting citizens. When Pearson died in 1921, no less than 1,800 St. Dunstaners attended his funeral. Here is the biography of an extraordinary man who refused to consider blindness an affliction, but rather a handicap whichcould be overcome. His charitable work has continued long after his passing.
£15.29
The History Press Ltd Winston Churchill Essential Biographies
Book SynopsisWinston Churchill is probably still the best-known Prime Minster of Great Britain. Born at Blenheim Palace, he joined the army after Harrow, but in 1899 resigned his commission to report on the Boer War. Elected to Parliament in 1900, he served in both Conservative and Liberal governments, and became Chancellor of the Exechequer under Baldwin, A period in the political wilderness was ended by the declaration of the Second World War and his appointment to the Admiralty; after Chamberlain''s resignation in 1940 he led a coalition government. He worked closely with Roosevelt and to a lesser degree with Stalin throughout the war. He lost the election of 1945 but became Prime Minister again from 1951 to 1955. His last years saw a return to writing, including his memoirs of the Second World War.
£7.59
The History Press Ltd Queen Victorias Children
Book SynopsisQueen Victoria's children
£9.99
The History Press Ltd The Mistresses of Henry VIII
Book SynopsisSeventeen-year-old Henry VIII was a youngling, he cares for nothing but girls and hunting''. Over the years, this didn't change much. Henry was considered a demi-god by his subjects, so each woman he chose was someone who had managed to stand out in a crowd of stunning ladies. Looking good was not enough (indeed, many of Henry's lovers were considered unattractive); she had to have something extra special to keep the king's interest. And Henry's women were every bit as intriguing as the man himself. In this book, Henry's mistresses are rescued from obscurity. The sixteenth century was a time of profound changes in religion and society across Europe and some of Henry's lovers were at the forefront of influencing these events. Kelly Hart gives an excellent insight into the love life of our most popular king, and the twelve women who knew the man behind the mask.
£11.69
The History Press Ltd Yours Ever Charlie
Book SynopsisYours Ever, Charlie' is the fascinating account of Charles Crowther, one of many British men who volunteered to fight for king and country in the First World War. When Charles volunteered he was almost forty-three and devoted to his family; this book demonstrates how his and an entire generation's sense of duty to the nation overpowered their fears of fighting abroad and, for many, the possibility of never coming home. Charles' granddaughter explores his journey from the idyllic village of Wilden, Worcestershire, to the battlefields of France and then Gallipoli, where he was fatally wounded. Using the fluent, vivid and moving letters sent home to his family, together with the few replies that ever reached him, this book reflects upon Charles' ideals, the people who inspired him, and those whom he loved and was fighting to protect. Illustrated by rare photographs and original letters, and with a Foreword by Al Murray which provides an overview of the ill-fated Gallipoli campaign, this b
£11.69
The History Press Ltd The Peoples Poet
Book SynopsisBorn the child of an agricultural labourer in Dorset's Blackmore Vale, by self-education William Barnes (1801-1886) rose to be a lawyer''s clerk, a schoolmaster, a much-loved clergyman, and a scholar who could read over seventy languages. He also became the finest example of an English poet writing in a rural dialect. In this book, Alan Chedzoy shows how, uniquely, he presented the lives of pre-industrial rural people in their own language. He also recounts how Barnes's linguistic studies enabled him to defend the controversial notion that the dialect of the labouring people of Wessex was the purest form of English. Serving both as an anthology and an account of how the poems came to be written, this biography is essential reading for anyone who wants to discover more about the man who, in an obituary, Thomas Hardy described as probably the most interesting link between present and past life that England possessed'.Trade Review‘A tour de force. Beautifully written… beautifully evocative of a bygone Dorset… and a thoroughly compelling portrait of one of the most interesting poets of the nineteenth century.’ -- Minette Walters‘This new book reveals beneath the surface of supposedly idyllic rural nostalgia, a story of the most impressive intellectual originality, vigour and tenacity.’ -- Robert Giddings * Tribune *‘A fascinating reassessment of a distinguished Victorian, a man who became a poet of national, not just of Dorset, significance.’ -- Chris Wrigley‘An invaluable introduction to the poetry for those previously unfamiliar with Barnes’ works.’ -- Tony Fincham * Thomas Hardy Journal *
£18.00
The History Press Churchills Grandmama Frances 7th Duchess of
Book SynopsisChurchill's Grandmama
£15.00
The History Press Ltd Surviving Tenko
Book SynopsisThe dramatic tale of Margot Turner''s survival as a prisoner of war during the Pacific conflict of the Second World War inspired the 1980s television series Tenko. The cargo ship on which she was evacuated from Singapore in 1942 was shelled, leaving her on a makeshift raft with sixteen other survivors. One by one they perished, leaving her along, burnt black by the sun, and suffering from heat exhaustion and dehydration. Discovered by a Japanese destroyer, she was imprisoned on Banka Island and nursed back to health by nuns. A nurse by profession, Margot was initially permitted to help run the operating theatre on her recovery, when, unexpectedly she was arrested by the dreaded Kempeitai and thrown into Palembang jail. There, crammed with murderers and rapists in a filthy cell, she spent six months living in daily fear of joining the many prisoners who were noisily tortured and executed, before being returned to the prisoner-of-war camps for the duration of the war.In this, the first biography for forty years, Penny Starns describes the often horrific but occasionally heart-warming experiences of this unbreakable woman who, not content with surviving the war, went on to become a brigadier and matron-in-chief of the British Army nursing services. Using recently released material from the National Archives and Turner''s own words, Starns re-analyses the Pacific conflict against a backdrop of one person''s incredible fortitude and strength, and brings the story of a remarkable woman to life.
£12.34
The History Press Ltd In the Footsteps of William Wallace
Book SynopsisIn the footsteps of William Wallace
£16.99
The History Press Ltd The Auschwitz Kommandant
Book SynopsisBarbara Cherish's upbringing in Nazi-occupied Poland was one of relative wealth and comfort. But her father's senior position in the Nazi Party meant that she and her brothers and sisters lived on a knife edge. In 1943 he became commandant of perhaps the most infamous of all the concentration camps: Auschwitz. The author tells her father's story with clarity and without judgement, detailing his relationship with his family and his unceasing love for his mistress, as well as the very separate life he led as a senior officer of the SS. Captured by the US Army at the end of the war, he was held at Dachau and Nuremberg before being extradited to Poland. He was tried in the Auschwitz Trial' at Krakow, found guilty of war crimes and crimes against humanity and executed in January 1948. A unique insider's view of the dark heart of the Third Reich, it is also a heartbreaking tale of a family torn apart that will open the eyes of even the most well-read historian.
£10.79
The History Press Ltd The Real Enigma Heroes
Book SynopsisFor almost sixty years after their deaths, three men, whose brave actions shortened the Second World War by as much as two years, remained virtually unknown and uncelebrated. It is written in celebration of Colin Grazier GC, Tony Fasson GC, and Tommy Brown GM - the REAL Enigma heroes.
£17.00
The History Press Ltd The Mistresses of Henry VIII
Book SynopsisSeventeen-year-old Henry VIII was a youngling, he cares for nothing but girls and hunting'. Over the years, this didn't change much. Henry was considered a demi-god by his subjects, so each woman he chose was someone who had managed to stand out in a crowd of stunning ladies. Looking good was not enough (indeed, many of Henry's lovers were considered unattractive); she had to have something extra special to keep the king's interest. And Henry's women were every bit as intriguing as the man himself. In this book, Henry's mistresses are rescued from obscurity. The sixteenth century was a time of profound changes in religion and society across Europe and some of Henry's lovers were at the forefront of influencing these events. Kelly Hart gives an excellent insight into the love life of our most popular king, and the twelve women who knew the man behind the mask.
£9.49
