Entertainment Books

Book SynopsisThis new and updated edition covers the full life''s work of iconic director Wes Anderson, including Asteroid City, The French Dispatch, and his collection of four short films for Netflix.Loaded with rich imagery and detailed analysis of his incredible films – including the classics The Grand Budapest Hotel, Rushmore, The Royal Tenenbaums, and The French Dispatch – this is the first book to feature all of Wes Anderson''s movies in a single volume.Acclaimed film journalist Ian Nathan provides an intelligent and thoughtful examination of the work of one of contemporary film’s greatest visionaries, charting the themes, visuals, and narratives that have come to define Anderson’s work and contributed to his films and idiosyncratic character that''s adored by his loyal fans. From Anderson’s regular cast members – including Bill Murray an

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Book SynopsisAs he films the final episode, actor David Suchet recalls his experience of playing Agatha Christie's world-famous detective, Hercule Poirot, for almost a quarter of a century.Trade ReviewThis is an excellent book about the psychopathology of an exceptional actor... -- Roger Lewis * Daily Mail *David Suchet writes with tremendous warmth and sincerity about his most famous alter ego... -- Paul Whitelaw * Metro *

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Book SynopsisThe heart-breaking and inspiring true story of one man and his piano during the Holocaust, for fans of The Choice and The Cut Out Girl.

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Book Synopsis''Gillespie is rock and roll''s Oliver Twist. A punk rock fairytale, razor sharp on class struggle, music, style, and a singular view of the world resulting in one of the world''s great bands. Couldn''t put down'' Courtney LoveBorn into a working-class Glaswegian family in the summer of 1961, TENEMENT KID begins in the district of Springburn, soon to be evacuated in Edward Heath''s brutal slum clearances. Leaving school at 16 and going to work as a printers'' apprentice, Bobby''s rock n roll epiphany arrives like a bolt of lightning shining from Phil Lynott''s mirrored pickguard at his first gig at the Apollo in Glasgow. Filled with ''the holy spirit of rock n roll'' his destiny is sealed with the arrival of the Sex Pistols and punk rock which to Bobby, represents an iconoclastic vision of class rebellion and would ultimately lead to him becoming an artist initially in the Jesus and Mary Chain then Primal Scream.Building like a breakbeat crescendo to the SummTrade ReviewGillespie is rock and roll's Oliver Twist. A punk rock fairytale, razor sharp on class struggle, music, style, and a singular view of the world resulting in one of the world's great bands. Couldn't put down -- Courtney LoveAs hugely influential and inspiring as Bobby Gillespie's music is, we now know his genius includes the telling of this story and reviving the ghosts that brought the music to life -- Mark LaneganA righteous journey, an elegy for the transformative power of rock and roll told with heart and soul. The Gospel according to Bobby Gillespie -- Warren EllisIf they encapsualted the spirit of rock and roll in one person it would be Bobby Gillespie. The book is affirmative not just of a rockin' life but the beautiful working-class culture that made it. I felt like shedding tears of joy reading it, but also enraged about what we've lost -- Irvine WelshFrom Rottenrow hospital to the TOTP studio, this is the enthralling and vividly detailed story of a boy dreamed himself into a rock and roll star -- Simon ReynoldsReaders will be astonished by the detail in his memoir, the extraordinary rolling energy of his prose, and his warmth, gratitude and performerly wisdom . . . The way Gillespie writes about music's intoxicating buzz is inspirational . . . Tenement Kid's joy is in its undeviating belief in rock iconography * Mojo *A fascinating story * Guardian *An impassioned, elegantly written tale of self-realisation through fandom, along with plenty of doubts and insecurities * The Times *An obsessive music fan who fulfilled his wildest rock star dreams, Gillespie has found an authentic voice to desribe his often hair-raising experiences, and the result is a rock 'n' roll epic * Daily Telegraph *I can't recommend this book highly enough . . . the best music-related book I've read this year, and essential reading for anyone who loves and cares about alternative music * Louder Than War *Gillespie is a hypnotic writer and this self-aggrandising yet self-lacerating self-portrait is, on its own terms, brutally honest * i Newspaper *Tenement Kid is a thrilling read laced with copious laugh out loud moments. This is a riveting account of how a tenement child of the Cold War era, and his friends, created a soundtrack for the hopes and dreams of a generation * Irish Times *This, as his enjoyable memoir Tenement Kid confirms, is a true believer steeped in politics and pop culture . . . The most arresting passages are those in which he captures the febrile, incestuous activity of Scotland's underground music scene in the Eighties/early Nineties . . . He also strikes an unforced yet tangible note of melancholy: we will never be so young and free again * Big Issue *Bobby Gillespie is a believer. A true disciple who, in his autobiography Tenement Kid, is going to take you on a spiritual journey through poverty and the struggles of a city at the end of time, in a country being dismantled by an evil overlord with all the might of the state behind her, and into the light and triumph of a band finding their identity. It is a tale of redemption, of how - through a spiritual and chemical path - rock and roll can truly save, taking you away from the suffering to your higher self. This is a tale of love; it is a tale of salvation . . . It does what you expect from a rock and roll memoir but also achieves something rare for the genre: it gives the sense that Gillespie is still one of us * Concrete Islands *

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Book SynopsisA fever-dream journal documenting the making of cinema's most infamous production, from the world's most infamously visionary director: Werner Herzog. In 1982, the visionary film director, Werner Herzog, released Fitzcarraldo, a lavish film about a would-be rubber baron who pulls a 320-ton steamship over a mountain. Hailed instantly by critics around the globe as a masterpiece, Fitzcarraldo won Herzog the 1982 Outstanding Director Prize at the Cannes Film Festival, affirming Herzog's reputation as one of the most revered and enigmatic filmmakers of his time. Conquest of the Useless is the diary Herzog kept during the making of Fitzcarraldo, compiled from June 1979 to November 1981. Emerging as if out of an Amazonian fever dream during filming, Herzog's writings are an extraordinary documentary unto themselves. Strange and otherworldly events are recounted by the filmmaker. The crew's camp in the heart of the jungle is attacked and burned to the ground; the production of the film clashes with a border war; and, of course, Herzog unravels the impossible logistics of moving a 320-ton steamship over a hill without the use of special effects. In his preface, Herzog warns that the diary entries collected in Conquest of the Useless do not represent reports on the actual filming but rather inner landscapes, born of the delirium of the jungle. Thus begins an extraordinary glimpse into the mind of a genius during the making of one of his greatest achievements.

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Book SynopsisYou've recorded the album, toured the world, and all of the fans have left the venues. Where can the rock star now turn for sanctuary? With stadium size egos to placate, how does the rock star relax in their household? From Keith Moon's stately home to George Harrison's Buddhist retreat, Sinatra's chic apartment to Elton John's crash pad, how do the homes of the rock stars reflect their personalities and idiosyncrasies? This picture led book takes you through the keyhole of the abode's of our biggest stars.

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Book SynopsisThis book contains nine pieces from ABRSM's Grade 1 Violin syllabus from 2024, three pieces chosen from each of Lists A, B and C - ideal for both Practical and Performance Grade exams. The pieces have been carefully selected to offer an attractive and varied range of styles, creating a collection that provides an excellent source of repertoire to suit every performer. The book also contains helpful footnotes and, for those preparing for exams, useful syllabus information. An edition with piano accompaniment and audio is also available - it includes downloadable recordings of all nine pieces, plus piano accompaniment tracks.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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Book SynopsisThis volume contains valuable practice material for candidates preparing for the ABRSM Grade 2 Piano exams. The book is written in attractive and approachable styles and representative of the technical level expected in the exam.Trade ReviewThe new sight-reading books, one for each grade, are shorter, more melodious and cover a wider range of styles. All this plethora of tests will enable teachers and students to build up confidence. * EPTA Piano Journal *

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Book SynopsisKevin McNally stars in five brand new recordings of original Hancock's Half Hour scripts by Ray Galton and Alan Simpson. Now, five of them have been recreated by BBC Radio 4, with Kevin McNally taking the role made famous by Tony Hancock.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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Book SynopsisNow filmed as ''The Irishman'' starring Robert De Niro, Al Pacino and Joe Pesci ''I heard you paint houses'' are the first words Jimmy Hoffa ever spoke to Frank ''the Irishman'' Sheeran. To paint a house is to kill a man. The paint is the blood that splatters on the wall and floors. In the course of nearly five years of recorded interviews Frank Sheeran confessed to Charles Brandt that he handled more than twenty-five hits for the Mob, and for his friend Hoffa. Sheeran learned to kill in the US Army, where he saw an astonishing 411 days of active combat during World War 2. After returning home he became a hustler and a hit man, working for legenday crime boss Russell Bufalino. Eventually Sheeran would rise to a position of such prominence that he was named as one of only two non-Italians on a list of the twenty-six most wanted Mob figures. When Bufalino ordered Sheeran to kill Hoffa, the Irishman did the deed, knowing that if he refused, he would haveTrade ReviewOn July 30, 1975, Hoffa disappeared. Sheeran explains how he did it in prose reminiscent of the best gangster films. * The Associated Press *Brandt's book gives new meaning to the term "guilty pleasure." * New York Times *Told with such economy and chilling force as to make The Sopranos suddenly seem overwrought and theatrical. * New York Daily News ***** * Metro *

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Book SynopsisMark Sinker is a writer and editor based in Plymouth, UK. He edited The Wire in the 1990s and has written for publications including Sight and Sound, 4Columns and the London Review of Books. His book A Hidden Landscape Once a Week: The Unruly Curiosity of the UK Music Press in the 1960s80s, in the Words of Those Who Were There was published in 2019.

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Book SynopsisSince its debut in 2004, The L Word has been a milestone of popular and queer culture. For six seasons, this iconic show broke barriers and brought on-screen visibility to the experiences of the LGBTQ+ community through the lives of a diverse group of women. Viewers followed the stories of beloved characters like Bette, Tina, Shane, Kit, and Alice, and their dynamic journeys with love, heartbreak, friendship, and triumph. Now, for the first time, Jennifer Beals invites you behind the scenes to witness the magic that took place during the making of this iconic show. L by Jennifer Beals showcases more than 400 rarely seen, extraordinarily candid photographs taken by Jennifer Beals on the set and behind the scenes of The L Word. These exquisite photographs, offer an intimate look into every aspect of the show, highlighting the real friendships, emotions, and creativity that contributed to its massive success.Also featuring a foreword and reminiscences from Jennifer, cast commentary, and intriguing ephemera such as scripts, call sheets, notes between actors, and production memos, this extraordinary book is the definitive portrait of the life, the laughter, and the love that was The L Word. PERFECT GIFT FOR FANS, NEW AND OLD: With more than 200 hundred pages of artistic images and its sleek hardcover casing, this is an ideal gift that every L Word fan needs in their hands NEVER-BEFORE-SEEN CANDID MOMENTS: Examine unseen images that capture the incredible cast and crew in moments of laughter, focus, conversation, and celebration INSIGHTS FROM YOUR FAVORITES: Enjoy quotes and reflections shared by the actresses and actors who played your favorite characters, that offer even more insight into what it was like bringing this revolutionary series to life

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Book SynopsisHelps the player overcome problems, by building up a complete picture of each piece, through rhythmic and melodic exercises related to specific technical issues, then by studying prepared pieces with associated questions, and finally 'going solo' with a series of meticulously-graded sight-reading pieces.Trade ReviewWith a serious shortage of well-thought-out, structured material for sight-reading practice, these excellent workbooks are essential for all teachers and pupils even if they arc not taking an exam. Used regularly from the very first lesson, they will go some significant way to improving the sight-reading ability of even the most reluctant student. Music Teacher Magazine, January 2009 This series of very practical and productive workbooks, one per grade, was published several years ago and has been updated, according to the cover blurb, 'to support the revised ABRSM sight-reading criteria' in the 2009 syllabus. With hundreds of fascinating, short character pieces it is an inexhaustible resource for lessons - and delightful music in its own right. Helpful tips and tricks will improve pupils' chances of gaining more marks in this bit of the exam, and this is an honest, well-designed, reasonably priced package. I would recommend its use outside the exam preparation period rather than at the last minute, because the skills picked up will help in every aspect of piano playing, aural perception and general musical awareness. Piano Magazine, January 2009

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Book SynopsisLeonard Cohen made his name as a poet before he came to worldwide attention as a singer and songwriter. This collection of his poetry was written in Montreal, Mumbai and during his retirement in Mt Baldy.

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Book SynopsisExperience your favourite characters and enchanting scenes from one of the most famous fantasy worlds ever created Middle-earth in a brilliant new way with this official colouring book based on the epic The Lord of the Rings film trilogy directed by Peter Jackson.The Lord of the Rings film trilogy brought J.R.R. Tolkien's incredible world of Middle-earth to life for millions of people. Now you can add your own artistic touches and explore this enchanted universe as never before.Embark on your own colouring adventure through Middle-earth, from the peaceful Hobbit holes of the Shire to the majestic realms of Rivendell and Minas Tirith, and join in the Fellowship's terrifying journey through the mines of Moria to the unforgettable landscape of Mount Doom.As well as breathtaking scenes from the Lord of the Rings movie trilogy, you can colour your favourite heroes, including Gandalf, Aragorn, Legolas, Frodo and Sam, the majestic Galadriel and the pitiful Gollum, and iconic creatures such

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Book SynopsisThe definitive, behind-the-scenes story of the making of The Godfather.

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Book SynopsisRick Bucklers autobiography is the first from a member of The Jam, who some considered were the ultimate Mod band. Rick tells The Jam story from growing up in Woking and meeting fellow members Paul Weller and Bruce Foxton at school, through their formation in 1972 and tells of the band's early years before signing to Polydor records. He provides a year by year account of The Jam's progress whilst describing what it was like being a part of the music industry during the 70's and 80's and some of the characters who he met along the way including the Ramones, John Enwistle, Sid Vicious, Blondie, Boy George and Paul McCartney. Rick shares his own experiences and thoughts about what it was like to be in one of the UK's most successful bands who spent a great deal of time recording, performing and touring. Following The Jam's split in 1982, Rick gives a candid account of how he coped and his subsequent relationship with Paul and Bruce. All three members of The Jam stayed within the music industry and Rick takes the reader through his years in Time UK and various other bands up until forming From the Jam. A must read for any Jam fan.

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Book Synopsis*THE SUNDAY TIMES TOP TEN BESTSELLER**A Times Best Music Book of 2023*'This is the most glorious of books. I am besotted by the life I never knew he had.' -Elton John'Every page of Scattershot is a delight, a joy, a name-dropper fan's delight. Divine. I couldn't put it down.' -Pete Townshend'Hilarious and so emotionally true, Scattershot is like a letter from a cherished friend. You'll want to keep it close, so you can read it again and again.' -Cameron Crowe'Touching. Charming. Humble. Witty. And exquisitely written. Taupin's words need no musical accompaniment. They sing with a poets voice.' -Gary Oldman'Eloquent and inspiring' -Robert Hilburn, author of Johnny Cash: The Life'A funny, zippy narrative' -MOJO'An entertaining ride that doesn't spare the horses' -RTE Guide'Sharply written' -The Independent'Self deprecating and refreshingly honest' - Sunday TimesThis is the memoir music fans have been waiting for. Half of one of the greatest creative partnerships in popular music, Bernie Taupin is the man who wrote the lyrics for Elton John, who conceived the ideas that spawned countless hits, and sold millions and millions of records. Together, they were a duo, a unit, an immovable object. Their extraordinary, half-century-and-counting creative relationship has been chronicled in biopics (like 2019's Rocketman) and even John's own autobiography, Me. But Taupin, a famously private person, has kept his own account of their adventures close to his chest, until now.Written with honesty and candour, Scatterhot allows the reader to witness events unfolding from Taupin's singular perspective, sometimes front and center, sometimes from the edge, yet always described vibrantly, with an infectious energy that only a vivid songwriter's prose could offer. From his childhood in the East Midlands of England whose imagination was sparked and forever informed by the distinctly American mythopoetics of country music and cowboys, to the glittering, star-studded fishbowl of '70s and '80s Beverly Hills, Scattershot is simultaneously a Tom Jones­-like picaresque journey across a landscape of unforgettable characters, as well as a striking, first-hand account of a creative era like no other and one man's experience at the core of it.An exciting, multi-decade whirlwind, Scattershot whizzes around the world as we ride shotgun with Bernie on his extraordinary life. We visit New York with him and Elton on the cusp of global fame. We spend time with him in Australia almost in residency at an infamous rock 'n' roll hotel in an endless blizzard of drugs. And we spend late, late night hours with John Lennon, with Bob Marley, and hanging with Frank Sinatra. And beyond the world of popular music, we witness memorable encounters with writers like Graham Greene, painters like Andy Warhol and Salvador Dali, and scores of notable misfits, miscreants, eccentrics, and geniuses, known and unknown. Even if they're not famous in their own right, they are stars on the page, and we discover how they inspired the indelible lyrics to songs such as "Tiny Dancer," "Candle in the Wind," "Bennie and The Jets," and so many more.Unique and utterly compelling, Scattershot will transport the reader across the decades and around the globe, along the way meeting some of the greatest creative minds of the 20th century, and into the vivid imaginings of one of music's most legendary lyricists.Trade ReviewOrgasmic. Every page of Scattershot is a delight, a joy, a name-dropper fan's delight. Divine. I couldn't put it down * Pete Townshend *In Bernie Taupin's miraculous memoir Scattershot you'll meet legends, cowboys, geniuses, unforgettable faces in the night, shady purveyors of outrageous fortune, warriors of the heart, and most of all, Taupin himself. Hilarious and so emotionally true, Scattershot is like a letter from a cherished friend. You'll want to keep it close, so you can read it again and again * Cameron Crowe *Touching. Charming. Humble. Witty. And exquisitely written. Taupin's words need no musical accompaniment. They sing with a poets voice. * Gary Oldman *Eloquent and inspiring, Scattershot is a freewheeling memoir that is as warm and evocative as Bernie Taupin's most memorable lyrics. A born storyteller, Taupin gives us the life of an artist whose outlook was shaped by a rare but fascinating blend of lifelong innocence and endless intellectual curiosity * Robert Hilburn, author of Johnny Cash: The Life *I simply wouldn't write songs without Bernie Taupin. I've read every word he's ever written and there could never be enough of them to satiate my need for Bernie's way of seeing the world. Scattershot, though, is a lifting of the veil, as beautifully written as it is honest and rugged. Reading this book brought me face to face with who he truly is: an empathic genius who speaks to the everyman. * Brandi Carlile *This is the most glorious of books. I am besotted by the life I never knew he had. * Elton John *Written in a highly entertaining, articulate style with a wickedly acidic sense of humor, this book sets a new standard for rock biographies. * LIBRARY JOURNAL *Scattershot takes a non-linear approach and is all the better for it. It's funny too (one cokey chapter is titled Days Of Wine And Noses), and encounters with Salvador Dali and Princess Margaret colour the zippy narrative. There's a sense Taupin can't quite believe it all happened... * MOJO *An entertaining ride that doesn't spare the horses -- RTE GuideSharply Written * The Independent *Evocative * The Guardian *Engaging and poetic * The Times *Compellingly written - Scattershot is a thoroughly enjoyable read * Record Collector Magazine *Bernie is well-read, highly literate and, on the evidence of his memoir, a man of wise, sensitive intelligence. -- Roger Lewis, Daily Mail

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Book SynopsisBorn in Salford in 1956, Bernard Sumner went on to be a founder member of Joy Division and the singer and lead guitarist of New Order.Trade ReviewContains poignantly rendered family tragedies, told with warm humour and without self-pity... As well as showing a life saved and made by rock'n'roll, it illustrates someone almost effortlessly negotiating the rapids of success and stardom, armed only with street smarts and laconic Manc wit... A must for Joy Division and New Order fans' -- Irvine Welsh * Esquire *A fascinating memoir...The book is filled with memories of every kind -- Mark Ellen * The Times *

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Book SynopsisFrom the stylist behind David Bowie's Ziggy Stardust look, an electrifying peek behind the curtains during a legendary chapter of pop culture history. 'Suzi Ronson was there as Bowie transitioned from suburban folkie to world superstar and genius. Few can offer such insight, and tell this fascinating story with such verve.'HANIF KUREISHI'It's still hard to accept that Ziggy didn't fall from the stars in full makeup to blow our minds. Yes, other people helped create him. One of them was Suzi Ronson.'DEBORAH LEVY, LITERARY REVIEW'Electrifying'. MAIL ON SUNDAY'Refreshing . . . pulls few punches.' i'An engrossing, raucous read.' SALON***Suzi Ronson was working in a Beckenham hair salon in the early seventies when Mrs Jones came in for her weekly shampoo and set. After being introduced to her son David and his wife Angie, Suzi finds herself at the Bowies' bohemian apartment and is soon embroiled in their raucous world. Having crafted his iconic Ziggy Stardust hairstyle, Suzi becomes the

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Book SynopsisAll Things Remembered is the story of the man born Clifford J. Price - jungle's most streetwise ambassador who went on to collect an MBE from Buckingham Palace. As one of Britain's most influential DJs, producers and record-label owners, Goldie's contribution to the UK rave scene in the 1990s with Metalheadz provided the blueprint for dubstep and grime. Here is the memoir of an extraordinary life, an explosive story of abuse, revenge, graffiti, breakdancing, gold teeth, sawn-off shotguns, car crashes, hot yoga, absent fatherhood and redemption through reality TV all told in Goldie's unmistakeable, charismatic voice.

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Book SynopsisRevised and updated - includes Miyazaki''s new masterpiece, The Boy and the Heron.Explore the films of magical Japanese animation masters Studio Ghibli in this film-by-film celebration for newcomers and long-time fans alike.Ghibliotheque reviews each Studio Ghibli movie in turn, in the voice of expert and newcomer. The lively text delves into production details, themes, key scenes and general reviews, as well as Ghibli-specific information. It''s beautifully illustrated with stills and posters from each movie.Written by the hosts of the acclaimed Ghibliotheque podcast, this is the first and last word on the films of Studio Ghibli.

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Book SynopsisA THE TIMES BOOK OF THE YEAR 2019''The best introduction to the plays I''ve read, perhaps the best book on Shakespeare, full stop'' Alex Preston, Observer''It makes you impatient to see or re-read the plays at once'' Hilary MantelA genius and prophet whose timeless works encapsulate the human condition like no others. A writer who surpassed his contemporaries in vision, originality and literary mastery. Who wrote like an angel, putting it all so much better than anyone else.Is this Shakespeare? Well, sort of.But it doesn''t really tell us the whole truth. So much of what we say about Shakespeare is either not true, or just not relevant, deflecting us from investigating the challenges of his inconsistencies and flaws. This electrifying new book thrives on revealing, not resolving, the ambiguities of Shakespeare''s plays and their changing topicality. It introduces an intellectually, theatrically and ethically exciting writer who engages with intersectionality as much as with Ovid, with economics as much as poetry: who writes in strikingly modern ways about individual agency, privacy, politics, celebrity and sex. It takes us into a world of politicking and copy-catting, as we watch him emulating the blockbusters of Christopher Marlowe and Thomas Kyd, the Spielberg and Tarantino of their day; flirting with and skirting round the cut-throat issues of succession politics, religious upheaval and technological change. The Shakespeare in this book poses awkward questions rather than offering bland answers, always implicating us in working out what it might mean.This is Shakespeare. And he needs your attention.Trade ReviewThe best introduction to the plays I've read, perhaps the best book on Shakespeare, full stop. This is a model of unpretentious, deeply researched, profoundly approachable criticism. It's a book to give to anyone who loves Shakespeare, but particularly to those who think they don't ... What This Is Shakespeare gives the reader most of all, though, is a licence to enjoy the plays without the cultural and historical baggage they so often carry -- Alex Preston * Observer *The question that hangs over every new book on Shakespeare is, "Why read this one?" The short answer is, because it is very good indeed. There is no shortage of eminent Shakespeare scholars, and in her role as professor of Shakespeare studies at Oxford, Smith certainly ranks among them; but more importantly for a book like this, she is perhaps the pre-eminent Shakespeare communicator working today ... This is Shakespeare cuts through the accumulated crust of "schoolroom platitudes", cant and literary piety in order to dust Shakespeare off and see him as he is, was, and might be -- Tim Smith-Laing * Daily Telegraph *I like this book very much. It explains accessibly, with learning lightly worn, why Shakespeare retains such a hold in our culture. Smith has done an exemplary job of restoring the greatest of English writers to his own time, and explaining why he then speaks to ours ... An invigorating examination of the pre-eminence of the most revered figure of English letters -- Oliver Kamm * The Times *Quirky, brilliant ... what's most bracing about Smith's book is the way she sees the plays as almost organic: not only contradictory but alive -- Daniel Swift * Spectator *This is Shakespeare wears its learning very lightly, although there are clear signs of that learning in every chapter ... Sane, sensible and suitably woke ... original and provocative analysis -- Lisa Hopkins * Times Higher Education *Thought-provoking, fizzing with jokes ... Smith is celebrating a Shakespeare who talks to the present. She does it all with such a light touch you barely notice how much you're learning ... Anyone who doesn't understand what the fuss is all about should read This Is Shakespeare -- Colin Burrow * Guardian *An outstanding book ... a distillation of intricate conceptual and textual cruces into readable prose ... lively and unexpectedly moving ... curious and passionate ... [It reminds me] why I came to enjoy Shakespeare so much in the first place -- Sophie Duncan * Literary Review *Intriguing ... Smith argues that the defining characteristic of Shakespeare's plays is their 'permissive gappiness'. This must also surely be the first book on Shakespeare to use the slang term 'woke' * Evening Standard *A joy to read, full of questions, surprises, and new ideas. Smith brings us remarkable new readings of Shakespeare, and a sense of how his work lives on the stage. A wonderful book -- Margaret DrabbleIf I were asked to recommend one guide for readers keen on discovering what's at stake in Shakespeare's plays, This Is Shakespeare would be it. Deeply informed, never dogmatic, and alert to how performance matters, Emma Smith understands that Shakespeare's plays prompt questions rather than provide answers. Her elegantly written and sharply observed book is richly rewarding. -- James Shapiro, author of 1599: A Year in the Life of William ShakespeareA fascinating new perspective and an absolute pleasure to read -- Eimear McBride, author of A Girl is a Half-formed ThingImpeccable ... This is Shakespeare is the ideal book of its moment for unlocking the works of that most miraculous, mysterious and be-pedestalled figure in English literature [...] Smith's fresh approaches reveal something crucial about Shakespeare's ongoing relevance * The Saturday Paper *There's an invigorating frankness to Smith's approach [...] She generously leads an accessible and insightful route towards a provocative, complicating reading of Shakespeare's work. * GLOBE Magazine *Shakespeare pulled from his pedestal and made contemporary...this book is terrific...informative and, more importantly, very enjoyable * This England *Smith salvages Shakespeare from the status of isolated genius, and reveals him as an active participant in his own time and place. In turn, we the audience become active participants in the remaking of Shakespeare...This book puts the pleasure back into the plays, and there is no better reason to read about Shakespeare than that -- Sarah Ditum * The Lancet *Packed with sharp observations and illuminating commentary on the works and their afterlives...acute on the plays' modern resonances and how today's theatre troupes handle Will's less woke moments, such as The Taming of the Shrew. They won't cancel Shakey yet! * The Times Books of the Year 2019 *A brilliant and accessible tour of Shakespeare's plays that is also a radical manifesto for how to read and watch his work. Witty, irreverent and searching, this book shines dazzling new light on the oeuvre of the world's greatest literary genius. * Economist Books of the Year *A tonic ... This Is Shakespeare will, for some time to come, remain required reading for all those with more than a passing interest in Shakespeare ... ['Gappiness' is] a compelling way of evaluating afresh an author about whom we are often told that everything has been said ... Outstanding ... A model for almost everything that Shakespeare criticism for the general reader should be striving to achieve -- Rhodri Lewis * Prospect *Consistently fascinating [...] there's no denying the wit and intelligence [...] nor the dangerous readability of this thoughtful study. -- Alexander Larman * Observer *Read this and you will be seduced -- Val McDermid (Radio 4, A Good Read)Praise for previous works by Emma Smith "Emma Smith is a courteous and helpful guide who wears her considerable learning lightly in this enjoyable, well-conceived, well-written book" -- Andrew Hadfield * Irish Times *Praise for previous works by Emma Smith: "A fascinating and provocative book" -- Daniel Swift * Spectator *Praise for previous works by Emma Smith: "Delightful... there is a bite in Smith's exuberant tales of buying, selling and displaying Shakespeare... beautifully judged, impeccably researched yet wry and affectionate" -- Jerry Brotton * Financial Times *Praise for previous works by Emma Smith "Brilliantly approachable and entertaining ... anarchic, counterintuitive, critical ... perfect" -- Alex Preston * Observer *Praise for previous works by Emma Smith "Delightful" * Telegraph *

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Book SynopsisHelps the player overcome problems, by building up a complete picture of each piece, through rhythmic and melodic exercises related to specific technical issues, then by studying prepared pieces with associated questions, and finally 'going solo' with a series of meticulously-graded sight-reading pieces.Trade ReviewThis series of very practical and productive workbooks, one per grade, was published several years ago and has been updated, according to the cover blurb, 'to support the revised ABRSM sight-reading criteria' in the 2009 syllabus. With hundreds of fascinating, short character pieces it is an inexhaustible resource for lessons - and delightful music in its own right. Helpful tips and tricks will improve pupils' chances of gaining more marks in this bit of the exam, and this is an honest, well-designed, reasonably priced package. I would recommend its use outside the exam preparation period rather than at the last minute, because the skills picked up will help in every aspect of piano playing, aural perception and general musical awareness. Piano Magazine, January 2009

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Book SynopsisCrowdfunding is a major source of funding for independent films and over $250 million has been raised for films just on Kickstarter alone. This book will guide you through every stage of planning, creating and running your film crowdfunding campaign.This book is based on extensive data research and interviews which include: ...Trade ReviewTotally worth a read -- Ted Hope * Amazon Original Movies *Unique and invaluable -- Jonathan Wolf * Head of American Film Market *Stephen is one of the most gifted producers I know -- Chris Jones * author of The Guerrilla Filmmakers Handbook *This book will guide you through every stage of planning, creating and running your film's crowdfunding campaign * Crowdfunding Playbook *As filmmaking books go, this is one of the rare ones: useful, uncluttered, very easy-to-read, packed with great ideas and pleasingly free of academic B.S * Starburst *

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Book SynopsisThe evolution of the iconic filmmaker?s creative practice, from childhood sketches to his mature oeuvreTim Burton has reinvented Hollywood genre filmmaking over the past three decades. With a visual style inspired by the aesthetics of animation and silent comedy, Burton''s work melds the exotic, the horrific and the comic, manipulating expressionism and fantasy with the skill of a graphic novelist. Published to accompany a major career retrospective at The Museum of Modern Art, this affordable volume considers Burton''s career as an artist and filmmaker. It narrates the evolution of his creative practices, following the current of his visual imagination from his earliest childhood drawings through his mature oeuvre. Illustrated with works on paper, moving-image stills, drawn and painted concept art, puppets and maquettes, storyboards and examples of his work as a graphic artist for his non-film projects, this volume sheds new light on Burton and presents previously unseen works from the artist''s personal archive.Acclaimed American filmmaker Tim Burton (born 1958) is known for his dark, gothic films about quirky outsiders, many of which are both Hollywood blockbusters and cult classics. To date they have been nominated for 16 Academy Awards and have won six. They include Pee-Wee''s Big Adventure (1985), Beetle Juice (1988), Batman (1989), Edward Scissorhands (1990), Batman Returns (1992), Ed Wood (1994), Sleepy Hollow, (1999), Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Corpse Bride (both 2005) and Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007), among others. Alice in Wonderland is slated for 2010. Burton has collaborated extensively with composer Danny Elfman and with actors Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter.

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Book SynopsisAnimation is a global artform, and The Animation Atlas is your essential guide to this exciting, expansive world.From Michael Leader and Jake Cunningham, authors and hosts of the Ghibliotheque podcast, comes this whistle-stop tour through animated film history. A cartography of cartoons, The Animation Atlas takes in everything from titans of animation such as Disney, Pixar, Aardman and Studio Ghibli to pioneers, innovators and rising stars from the wider world of cinema.A truly global history of animation - Each of the 30 chapters sets down in a different country to focus on local talent that has made a global impact on the form, from Spain to South Africa and China to Chile.Box office hits and hidden gems - Features a dazzling selection of films, from hand-drawn Hollywood classics (Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs) and award-winning CG masterpieces (Flow), to the works of revered artists such as Lotte Reiniger (The Adventures of Prince Achmed), Jan Švankmajer (Alice) and Hayao Miyazaki (My Neighbour Totoro).Dozens of gorgeous illustrations - Includes more than 150 photographs, artworks and stills from some of the most beautiful animated films ever made. A perfect gift for film lovers.

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book SynopsisFlea, the iconic bassist and co-founder, alongside Anthony Kiedis, of the immortal Red Hot Chili Peppers finally tells his fascinating origin story, complete with all the dizzying highs and the gutter lows you''d expect from an LA street rat turned world-famous rock star.Michael Peter Balzary was born in Melbourne, Australia, on October 16, 1962. His more famous stage name, Flea, and his wild ride as the renowned bass player for the Red Hot Chili Peppers was in a far and distant future. Little Michael from Oz moved with his very conservative, very normal family to Westchester, New York, where life as he knew it was soon turned upside down. His parents split up and he and his sister moved into the home of his mother''s free-wheeling, jazz musician boyfriend - trading in rules, stability, and barbecues for bohemian values, wildness, and Sunday afternoon jazz parties where booze, weed, and music flowed in equal measure. There began Michael''s life-long jourTrade Review[Flea creates] a rhythm for his prose as curt and distinct as his bass playing. -- Jim Farber * The Guardian *Acid for the Children is not an as-told-to, nor is it written "with" someone. These are Flea's words-excitable, jazzy, regretful, disarming, popping and writhing away in his biological bass zone. Insecurities to the fore: He worries that he may be producing "a thorny jumble of trash." But he's actually a lovely writer, with a particular gift for the free-floating and reverberant. He writes in Beat Generation bursts and epiphanies, lifting toward the kind of virtuosic vulnerability and self-exposure associated with the great jazz players....Flea-elegant nutcase, funk-at-high-pressure bassist, wildly cultured and culturedly wild man-has written a fine memoir. You'll put down Acid for the Children with your human sympathies expanded; you'll feel less alone. * The Atlantic *Acid For the Children's closest analog is, somewhat surprisingly, Patti Smith's Just Kids...The prose frequently mimics [Flea's] playing: occasionally beautiful, occasionally outrageous, in conversation with a small group of predecessors but unwilling to follow anyone else's rules. This is what gives Acid for the Children its considerable charm... * AV Club *[An] electric, surprisingly moving memoir...Flea is an enlightened narrator, and this passionate, smart memoir will resonate with readers whether they're fans of the band or not. * Publisher's Weekly *A wild ride through the coming-of-age wilderness of the famed rock bassist...Relentlessly honest, untamed, and often revelatory. * Kirkus *He's the iconic bassist and co-founder of the Red Hot Chilli Peppers. The one you couldn't take your eyes off, despite Anthony Kiedis' enormous stage presence. Flea finally reveals his fascinating story, complete with everything you'd expect - the "highs" and the gutter lows from an "LA street rat turned world-famous rock star". A must for all music fans everywhere. * Creative Boom *Its hard not to warm to his openhearted embrace of jazz, funk and his eventual bromance with bandmates. * Best Music Books of the Year, Daily Telegraph *A frenzied, beat-ish telling of his pre-RCHP existence * Strong Words *

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Book SynopsisThis engaging and stimulating book argues that Shakespeare's plays significantly influenced movie genres in the twentieth century, particularly in films concerning love in the classic Hollywood period. Shakespeare's 'green world' has a close functional equivalent in 'tinseltown' and on 'the silver screen', as well as in hybrid genres in Bollywood cinema. Meanwhile, Romeo and Juliet continues to be an enduring source for romantic tragedy on screen. The nature of generic indebtedness has not gained recognition because it is elusive and not always easy to recognise. The book traces generic links between Shakespeare's comedies of love and screen genres such as romantic comedy, 'screwball' comedy and musicals, as well as clarifying the use of common conventions defining the genres, such as mistaken identity, 'errors', disguise and 'shrew-taming'. This challenging and entertaining book will appeal to those interested in Shakespeare, movies and the representation of love in narratives.Trade Review‘R.S. White’s timely book on the influence of Shakespeare on Hollywood cinema offers a refreshing account of the ‘contestatory and symbiotic’ relationship between Shakespeare’s generic innovations and the development of cinematic genres in early Hollywood.’ David McInnis, Australian Book Review June 2017 -- .Table of ContentsIntroduction: Shakespeare shaping modern movie genres1.'Madly mated': The Taming of the Shrew and odd-couple comedy2. Dreams in the forest: romantic comedy3. 'The guy's only doing it for some doll': musical comedy4. Of errors and Eros: a brief digression on twins5. Comedy of disguise and mistaken identity6. 'Star-crossed lovers': Romeo and Juliet and romantic tragedyConclusionBibliographyIndex

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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Book SynopsisAll the world’s a stage, but someone has to build it. Smooth Diao’s day is going anything but. Judging by how the stagehands treat him, you wouldn’t guess that he’s the foreman who makes sure there’s food on their tables – or that this bunch of yokels work for Xi’an’s premier theatre company, where their unseen grafting makes all the dazzling performances possible. Whoever said showbusiness was glamorous? Keeping the gang out of trouble in the city's many dives and cheap noodle bars is a thankless job when all Smooth wants to do is get home in time every night to salvage his third marriage. So, when this motley crew is given a seemingly ideal chance to set the stage for a performance in the nation's capital, it’s make or break. Can they set their internal drama aside and ignore the sneers of high society long enough to prove their worth? It’s time someone noticed who really makes the show go on.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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Book SynopsisDiscover the secrets of the Spider-Verse in this visually stunning collection of more than 500 pieces of artwork from the Oscar-winning, groundbreaking animated feature film! Fans can go behind the scenes with the creators of Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse and get a look at concept art, final designs, and artist commentary, plus previously unseen storyboards. Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, the creative minds behind The Lego Movie and 21 Jump Street, bring their unique talents to a fresh vision of a different Spider-Man universe. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse introduces Brooklyn teen Miles Morales, and the limitless possibilities of the Spider-Verse where more than one wears the mask. This luxurious oversized art book unmasks the artistry behind the dazzling and thoroughly original movie with a unique visual style that’s the first of its kind. Here you’ll find fascinating insights into the filmmakers’ creative process: • Exclusive commentary from creators Phil Lord and Christopher Miller on their inspirations for their unique new take on Spider-Man, rooted in his comics origins and the idea of a post-modern Spider-Man in an environment that has multiple spider-people from all of the comics, and giving the film an even stronger visual identity by leaning into the comic book language. • Concept art and sketches of every featured character and location in the film. Meet Miles Morales, the Peter Parkers, Spider-Gwen/Ghost-Spider, Spider-Ham, Peni and SP//dr and Spider-Man Noir—as well as villains Green Goblin, Scorpion, Tombstone, the Prowler, Doctor Octavius and Kingpin. Explore New York City and State, from Miles’s Brooklyn home to Manhattan, the Hudson Valley Forest, Spider-Man’s hideout and Wilson Fisk’s particle collider. • Unseen storyboards and paintings of key scenes—including Miles meeting the older Peter Parker for the first time; Miles swinging through the city, exploring the subway, and swinging through the forest; the fight at Aunt May’s; and Uncle Aaron’s death. • 2 gatefolds feature the film’s complete color script by Dave Bleitch and artwork by Justin K. Thompson, Wendell Dalit, Alberto Mielgo and Yuhki Demers depicting Miles Morales/Spider-Man; storyboards by Ryan Savas of Miles exploring his powers for the first time; and lighting keys by Wendell Dalit of the same sequence. • A foreword written by Brian Michael Bendis, Miles Morales’ co-creator and executive producer of the film. Go into the Spider-Verse any time you want with this special compilation of art from the film that belongs on every fan’s coffee table! “The visual look of Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is a marvel. Seeing how they came to the design choices they did is... worth the price of this book and then some - Vespe's Holiday Gift GuideTrade Review"The work that's been done on this film absolutely deserves to be poured over" - Birth.Movies.Death "astounding" - SyFy Gallery Feature "the visual look of Spider-Man: Into the Spider-verse is a marvel. Seeing how they came to the design choices they did is...worth the price of this book and then some" - Vespe's Holiday Gift Guide "the making of a masterpiece" - CBR.com "This is an art book that'll only increase the hype to rewatch and enjoy the incredible film" - Adventures in Poor Taste "This art book is gorgeous...a great companion if you enjoyed the film and want to know more about how it was created" - Geekisphere "Beautifully designed and laid out, the book is an intimate portfolio resplendent with color character renderings, setting concepts, story-boarding and start-to-finish designs." - Boyce McClain, Collector's Corner "a stunning dive into one of 2018's finest features...as memorable and accomplished as anything in the final product" - The Film Stage "These art books are gorgeous, each one a perfect complement to a well-read living room or workspace" - Daily Beast

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Book SynopsisEleven-year-old Satsuki and her sassy little sister Mei are overjoyed about moving into a historic country house with their dad - but the girls don't realise what a delightful adventure awaits them there. While exploring their sprawling home and the beautiful rural area that surrounds it, Satsuki & Mei meet Granny, a sweet old woman, and her timid grandson Kanta. They also experience first hand the magic of the Soot Sprites, mysterious creatures that live in the walls, and discover a huge camphor tree that just might be enchanted...

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Book SynopsisComprehensive and definitive volume telling the complete story of how Aliens was made, featuring new interviews with some of the cast and production crew, and including many rarely seen photos and illustrations from the Fox archives. As one of the most highly regarded movie sequels of all time, Aliens quickly embedded itself in the minds of cinemagoers around the world when it was released in 1986. Driven by the singular vision of director James Cameron and guided by producer Gale Ann Hurd, its relentless action and unforgettable characters helped cement its place as an undisputed classic of 1980s cinema. The Making of Aliens tells the complete story of how Cameron and Hurd, together with their immensely talented cast and crew, brought heroine Ellen Ripley back to the big screen-and upped the stakes by introducing a whole army of aliens for her to face. Interviews with the cast and crew, alongside revealing photography and fascinating concept art, illustrate the film's eventful journey from its beginnings as a sequel that nobody wanted to make through to its transformation into one of the highest-grossing blockbusters of the decade.Trade Review“Ultimately I cannot recommend this book enough” - This Week in Geek“A definitive guide to the creation of a true modern classic” - SYFY“Offers a fascinating look at one of our greatest films...[with] new insights into the production that cast a whole new light on specific scenes and characters” - ComingSoon.com“The definitive look at the film” - Borg.com“One the most comprehensive books you’re going to find and read regarding the film... The Making of Aliens is an absolute must for Aliens fans the universe over” - Adventures in Poor Taste“For fans of the franchise — or this film in particular — the book is an essential thing to have on one’s coffee table” - Andrew Liptak's Reading List"This isn’t just a book about making a movie; it’s a book about a filmmaker who refused to let any obstacle, no matter how big, prevent him from realizing his vision ... a book that belongs on every sf and adventure-film fan’s shelf, to be pulled out and leafed through again and again." -Booklist Starred Review“One of [Rinzler’s] most involving books yet” - The Film Stage ‘A particularly good read, that sheds some interesting light on the sequel that’s making me look at it in a different way than I had before’ - Transfer Orbit

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