History Books
Penguin Books Ltd Numbers Dont Lie
Book SynopsisTrade ReviewThe human mind soaks up the images and narratives conveyed by the press, but they are a highly nonrandom sample of reality: the lurid, the sudden, the photogenic. Smil's title says it all: to understand the world, you need to follow the trendlines, not the headlines. This is a compelling, fascinating, and most important, realistic portrait of the world and where it's going -- Steven PinkerThe best book to read to better understand our world. Once in a while a book comes along that helps us see our planet more clearly. By showing us numbers about science, health, green technology and more, Smil's book does just that. It should be on every bookshelf! -- Linda Yueh, author of The Great EconomistsImportant -- Mark Zuckerberg, on EnergyOne of the world's foremost thinkers on development history and a master of statistical analysis . . . The nerd's nerd * Guardian *A book for anyone confused by statistics or dubious of data in a world where numbers seem to mean everything and nothing. Vaclav Smil's new book reveals why diesel isn't as bad as you think, how much food is really being wasted, what actually makes people happy, and much more. * BBC Science Focus magazine *Outstanding perspectives on the world we live in providing context on mankind's challenges ranging from demographics through globalization, innovation and the environment -- Sarah Riopelle, Senior portfolio manager at RBC Global Asset Management * Bloomberg, 'Best Books of 2022' *
£10.44
Yale University Press The Year That Broke Politics
Book Synopsis
£14.99
Little, Brown Book Group A Place of Our Own
Book SynopsisA joyful celebration of lesbian spaces and their contribution to queer women's history
£12.34
Little, Brown Book Group Prosecuting the Powerful War Crimes and the Battle for Justice
£11.39
W. W. Norton & Company A Fate Worse Than Hell
a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.
£31.28
Basic Books How to Listen to Jazz
Book SynopsisA 'radiantly accomplished' (Wall Street Journal) music scholar presents an accessible introduction to the art of listening to jazz In How to Listen to Jazz, award-winning music scholar Ted Gioia presents a lively introduction to one of America's premier art forms. He tells us what to listen for in a performance and includes a guide to today's leading jazz musicians. From Louis Armstrong's innovative sounds to the jazz-rock fusion of Miles Davis, Gioia covers the music's history and reveals the building blocks of improvisation. A true love letter to jazz by a foremost expert, How to Listen to Jazz is a must-read for anyone who's ever wanted to understand and better appreciate America's greatest contribution to music.Trade ReviewMr Gioia could not have done a better job. Through him, jazz might even find new devotees. The Economist
£14.39
ABC Books Guts and Glory
a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.
£15.29
Pluto Press Revolutionary Berlin
Book SynopsisAn immersive radical walking guide to one of Europe's most popular citiesTrade Review'A guide through Berlin's riveting history that is gripping, tragic, triumphant and above all, authentic' -- Dan Arrows, host of 'The Iron Dice' Podcast'Fascinating and eclectic. This guidebook illuminates hidden histories with clarity, honesty, wit and irony. Read it and walk it!' -- David Rosenberg, author of 'Rebel Footprints''Inspirational. This collection of walking tours of Red Berlin is full of wonderful tales from a city which has, despite everything, remained experimental and revolutionary while others have become little more than malls or museums, all related with a deliciously bone-dry Berlinische humour' -- Owen Hatherley, author of Red MetropolisTable of ContentsAcknowledgements Abbreviations and German Words Introduction 1. (Anti)Colonialism 2. November Revolution 3. Rosa Luxemburg’s Berlin 4. Neukölln Will Stay Red! 5. 1968 in West Berlin 6. Riots in Kreuzberg 7. The East Is Red 8. Queer Berlin 9. Berlinerinnen 10. Afterword: Where This Book Was Written About the Author Index
£14.24
The History Press Ltd Haunted St Ives
Book SynopsisThe town has long been associated with a strong haunted heritage and reputation. Incredibly the local authorities still employed a professional ghost-layer right up until about 150 years ago, long after most other local towns had dispensed with the services of such dubious characters! Anyone interested in the supernatural history of this area will be fascinated in this phenomenal gathering of ghostly goings-on.
£12.34
Orion Publishing Co The Viceroys Daughters The Lives of the Curzon
Book SynopsisThe lives of the three daughters of Lord Curzon: glamorous, rich, independent and wilful.
£12.34
Oldcastle Books Ltd Everything and the Kitchen Sink
Book Synopsis
£16.99
Oldcastle Books Riots and Rebels
Book Synopsis
£17.09
Atlantic Books This Earthly Globe
Book SynopsisAndrea di Robilant was born in Italy and educated at Columbia University, where he specialized in international affairs. He is the author of A Venetian Affair, Lucia: A Venetian Life in the Age of Napoleon, Irresistible North: From Venice To Greenland on the Trail of the Zen Brothers, Chasing the Rose and Autumn in Venice. He lives in Rome.
£11.69
Pan Macmillan Charles III
Book SynopsisRobert Hardman is an internationally renowned writer and broadcaster who has specialized in royalty and history for more than twenty-five years. He is the author of the Sunday Times Top 10 bestselling biography of Elizabeth II, Queen of Our Times. His other books include Monarchy: The Royal Family at Work, Our Queen and Queen of the World, along with the BBC and ITV television documentaries of the same name.Among other television credits, he wrote and presented the BBC Two documentary George III: The Genius of the Mad King and wrote the BBC series The Queen's Castle. Hardman interviewed the then Prince of Wales for the BBC's Charles at 60, Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, for the BBC's The Duke: In His Own Words and the Princess Royal for ITV's Anne: The Princess Royal at 70. He wrote and co-produced the BBC's Prince Philip: The Royal Family Remembers, for which he interviewed a dozen members of the Royal Family. He is also an award-winning newspaper journalist for the Daily Mail in London.
£11.69
Headline Publishing Group A Brief History of the End of the Fcking World
Book Synopsis
£17.00
WW Norton & Co Plato and the Tyrant
Book Synopsis
£23.75
Amberley Publishing Saving Byzantium
a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.
£21.25
Amberley Publishing The Short History of Russia
a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.
£16.99
Pen & Sword Books Ltd The Siegfried Line
Book SynopsisThe definitive guide to the creation, composition and conquest of Germany's much vaunted Westwall. A lavishly illustrated analysis of the entire defensive system.
£24.00
Pen & Sword Books Ltd Penal Company on the Falklands
Book SynopsisOn 1 April 1982 the Argentinian junta invaded the Falkland Islands, while the 2nd Battalion the Parachute Regiment was on leave. Recalled to barracks, it joined the hastily assembled task force to recover the Islands. No parachutes instead a journey of 8000 miles on a North Sea ferry to deliver the battalion into battle. Philip Neame commanded D Company, one of the battalion's three 100-strong rifle companies, and in this compelling book he tells their story. 2 PARA was commanded by Lieutenant Colonel H' Jones, who was awarded a posthumous Victoria Cross at the Battle of Goose Green. After winning the first major land battle on the Falklands, 2 PARA were the only battalion to fight two, going on to fight at Wireless Ridge, the final gateway to Port Stanley. D Company played the decisive role, but, in the closing moments, suffered a deadly artillery barrage from their own guns. D Company was the Cinderella of 2 PARA, at the back for everything: on training, always in reserve; in b
£999.99
Amberley Publishing Elfrida
Book SynopsisThe first-ever biography of the most powerful woman of tenth-century England.Trade Review‘An engaging portrait’ * All About History *‘The life-story of this remarkable figure’ * Ryan Lavelle, BBC History Magazine *
£10.44
Polity Press The Last Neanderthal Understanding How Humans Die
£21.25
Hodder Education My Revision Notes: OCR AS/A-level History:
Book SynopsisExam board: OCRLevel: A-levelSubject: History First teaching: September 2015First exams: Summer 2016Target success in OCR AS/A-level History with this proven formula for effective, structured revision; key content coverage is combined with exam preparation activities and exam-style questions to create a revision guide that students can rely on to review, strengthen and test their knowledge.- Enables students to plan and manage a successful revision programme using the topic-by-topic planner- Consolidates knowledge with clear and focused content coverage, organised into easy-to-revise chunks- Encourages active revision by closely combining historical content with related activities- Helps students build, practise and enhance their exam skills as they progress through activities set at three different levels- Improves exam technique through exam-style questions with sample answers and commentary from expert authors and teachers- Boosts historical knowledge with a useful glossary and timeline
£13.33
Manchester University Press An Unorthodox History
Book SynopsisThis up-to-date history of Britain's Jewish community focuses on the experiences of Jewish people themselves. It offers insight into the lives of queer Jews, Jews married to non-Jews, Israel-critical Jews, Messianic Jews and others. -- .
£19.00
Quercus Publishing Palo Alto
Book Synopsis''Revelatory and illuminating'' New YorkerThe true, unvarnished history of the town at the heart of Silicon Valley.Palo Alto is nice. The weather is temperate, the people are educated, rich, healthy, enterprising. Remnants of a hippie counterculture have synthesized with high technology and big finance to produce the spiritually and materially ambitious heart of Silicon Valley, whose products are changing how we do everything from driving around to eating food. It is also a haunted toxic waste dump built on stolen Indian burial grounds, and an integral part of the capitalist world system. In Palo Alto, the first comprehensive, global history of Silicon Valley, Malcolm Harris examines how and why Northern California evolved in the particular, consequential way it did, tracing the ideologies, technologies, and policies that have been engineered there over the course of 150 years of Anglo settler colonialism, from IQ tests to t
£15.29
Random House I Love Russia
Book Synopsis**WINNER OF THE PUSHKIN HOUSE BOOK PRIZE 2024**To be a journalist is to tell the truth. Here is Russia as it really is.''Important ... this is the Russia we need to understand'' TIMOTHY SNYDER''A haunting book of rare courage'' CLARISSA WARD''Read this book'' SVETLANA ALEXIVICHPart memoir, part collection of Elena Kostyuchenko's fearless reporting, I Love Russia introduces us to places we've never seen and to people who've been systematically, brutally erased from view by Putin's regime. We enter secretive state-run facilities for disabled people, abandoned buildings haunted by suicide and violence, and a schoolyard marked by unacknowledged massacre. We meet village girls recruited into sex work, queer people in the outer provinces, and patients and doctors on a Ukrainian maternity ward.The result is a singular, uncompromising, and profoundly humane portrait of a nation and of an extraordinary woman who refu
£10.44
The Library of America On Democracy
a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.
£10.79
Vintage Publishing Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind: (Patterns
Book SynopsisYuval Noah Harari’s bestselling phenomenon now in a beautifully packaged new special edition. Planet Earth is 4.5 billion years old. In just a fraction of that time, one species among countless others has conquered it. Us. We are the most advanced and most destructive animals ever to have lived. What makes us brilliant? What makes us deadly? What makes us Sapiens? In this bold and provocative book, Yuval Noah Harari explores who we are, how we got here and where we’re going. Sapiens is a thrilling account of humankind’s extraordinary history – from the Stone Age to the Silicon Age – and our journey from insignificant apes to rulers of the world. 'Unbelievably good. Jaw dropping from the first word to the last' Chris Evans, BBC Radio 2PATTERNS OF LIFE: SPECIAL EDITIONS OF GROUNDBREAKING SCIENCE BOOKSTrade ReviewSapiens is packed with heretical thinking and surprising facts. This riveting, myth-busting book cannot be summarised in any detail; you will simply have to read it -- John Gray * Financial Times *Here is a simple reason why Sapiens has risen explosively to the ranks of an international best-seller. It tackles the biggest questions of history and of the modern world, and it is written in unforgettably vivid language. You will love it! -- Jared DiamondWhat’s unique about Harari’s take is that he focuses on the power of stories and myths to bring people together... I would recommend this book to anyone interested in a fun, engaging look at early human history... Harari tells our history in such an approachable way that you’ll have a hard time putting it down -- Bill GatesWhat makes it so interesting and provocative is that because it’s such a condensed sweeping history it talks about some core things that have allowed us to build this extraordinary civilisation that we take for granted, but weren’t a given, and it gives you a sense of perspective in how briefly we’ve been on this Earth -- Barack Obama * CNN *Sapiens is the sort of book that sweeps the cobwebs out of your brain. Its author, Yuval Noah Harari, is a young Israeli academic and an intellectual acrobat whose logical leaps have you gasping with admiration...Harari's writing radiates power and clarity, making the world strange and new -- John Carey * The Sunday Times *
£12.34
Michael O'Mara Books Ltd Captive Queen
Book SynopsisA fascinating and revealing new biography of Mary Queen of Scots, drawing on dozens of newly decoded letters.For almost two decades before her execution at Fotheringhay Castle in 1587, Mary Queen of Scots was a prisoner. From her chambers, she wrote countless letters, many encrypted using complex ciphers to prevent her communications from being intercepted. In this way, she used language to exert her will and her influence, even while incarcerated.More than 400 years after her death, fifty-seven of these encoded letters were unearthed in a French archive and decoded, a discovery described by experts as a ‘literary and historical sensation’ and the most important new find on Mary for more than a century.In Captive Queen: The Decrypted History of Mary, Queen of Scots, Jade Scott, a historian and expert on Mary’s correspondence, draws on these ground-breaking letters to paint a vivid portrait
£17.00
Helion & Company Fuentes de Onoro
a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.
£23.96
Helion & Company The Berlin Operation 1945
a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.
£36.00
Icon Books City of Echoes
Book SynopsisIn Rome the echoes of the past resound clearly in its palaces and monuments, and in the remains of the ancient imperial city. But another presence has dominated Rome for 2,000 years -the pope, whose actions and influence echo down the ages. In this epic tale, historian Jessica Wärnberg tells, for the first time, the story of Rome through the lens of its popes, illuminating how these remarkable (and unremarkable) men have transformed lives and played a crucial role in deciding the fate of the city. Emerging as the anonymous leader of a marginal cult in the humblest quarters of the city, less than 300 years later the pope sat enthroned in a gilt basilica, endorsed by the emperor himself. Eventually, the Roman pontiff would supplant even the emperors, becoming the de facto ruler of Rome and pre-eminent leader of the Christian world. Shifting elegantly between the panoramic and the personal, the spiritual and the profane, this is a fresh and often surprising take on a city, a people an
£10.79
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC Vision or Mirage: Saudi Arabia at the Crossroads
Book Synopsis'Clear-eyed and illuminating.’ Henry Kissinger, former Secretary of State and National Security Advisor 'A rich, superbly researched, balanced history of the modern Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.' General David Petraeus, former Commander U.S. Central Command and Director of the Central Intelligence Agency ‘Destined to be the best single volume on the Kingdom.’ Ambassador Chas Freeman, former U.S. Ambassador to Saudi Arabia and Assistant Secretary of Defense 'Should be prescribed reading for a new generation of political leaders.' Sir Richard Dearlove, former Chief of H.M. Secret Intelligence Service (MI6) and Master of Pembroke College, Cambridge. Something extraordinary is happening in Saudi Arabia. A traditional, tribal society once known for its lack of tolerance is rapidly implementing significant economic and social reforms. An army of foreign consultants is rewriting the social contract, King Salman has cracked down hard on corruption, and his dynamic though inexperienced son, the Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, is promoting a more tolerant Islam. But is all this a new vision for Saudi Arabia or merely a mirage likely to dissolve into Iranian-style revolution? David Rundell - one of America’s foremost experts on Saudi Arabia - explains how the country has been stable for so long, why it is less so today, and what is most likely to happen in the future. The book is based on the author's close contacts and intimate knowledge of the country where he spent 15 years living and working as a diplomat. Vision or Mirage demystifies one of the most powerful, but least understood, states in the Middle East and is essential reading for anyone interested in the power dynamics and politics of the Arab World.Trade ReviewA book of staggering breadth and depth. * The Wall Street Journal *Rundell covers the kingdom from top to bottom with vast wisdom, depth and understanding … It provides a superb overview of the kingdom’s political, economic and social landscape, but it goes well beyond that. Rundell explains, clearly and concisely, the special dynamics that drive the kingdom and render it so alien from our own society ... I wish that every United States diplomat, military officer and journalist would read this book before deploying there. I wish that every member of Congress would read it before voting on any measure related to Saudi Arabia. I wish every American pondering the frictions of our long relationship with the Saudis would read it simply to understand. * New York Times Book Review *At once modern and theocratic, reserved and assertive—Saudi Arabia’s paradoxes defy easy comprehension. For those seeking to understand the Kingdom and its role in the world, longtime observer David Rundell has distilled his experience into a clear-eyed and illuminating explanation. -- Henry A. Kissinger‘Excellent… analytically rigorous… exceptional…’ * Financial Times *[T]he author hits all the necessary benchmarks in his assessment of the Kingdom’s development. The book must also be regarded as a great accomplishment in the study of the Kingdom and its new leadership. * Middle East Journal *Vision or Mirage: Saudi Arabia at the Crossroads is a book that will prove incredibly illuminating to the average Westerner, who probably only thinks of sexism, theocracy and oil when he thinks about Saudi Arabia. Rundell uses history, theology, politics, economics and sociology to explain the current complexities and challenges of the Arabian Peninsula’s most dominant nation. -- Russell A Whitestone, Eurasia ReviewVision or Mirage is destined to be the best single volume on the Kingdom. It will be a long time, if ever, before it is bettered. -- Chas Freeman, Former U.S Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Assistant Secretary of Defense, President of the Middle East Policy CouncilSaudi Arabia has always been difficult for outsiders to understand, but it will be much less so now thanks to David Rundell. With insightful analysis of the roles of the ruling family, the tribal structure, the merchant class and the religious leadership, he forges all the pieces into a coherent whole that will enlighten specialists and novices alike. -- Thomas W. Lippman, author of Saudi Arabia on the EdgeA rich, superbly researched, balanced history of the modern Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. David Rundell was one of the State Department’s pre-eminent authorities on Saudi Arabia and the Arab world, one on whom those of us working in the region depended heavily, and this history reflects his decades of experience in the region, his eye for nuance and detail, his deep understanding of the culture and relationships in the kingdom, and his exceptional ability to distill and present all of that brilliantly. -- General David Petraeus, US Army (Ret.), former Commander of the US Central Command and the Coalition Forces in Afghanistan, and former Director of the CIAThis is a rare and important work on Saudi Arabia. Any diplomat, military official, policy maker or businessperson whose portfolio touches the kingdom will make far better decisions for having read it. I had the pleasure of working with Diplomat David Rundell during my service in the KSA. He provided sage advice and observations then, just as he will do for you in this splendid and useful book. -- Ambassador James Oberwetter, Former U.S. Ambassador to Saudi ArabiaDavid Rundell is America’s most knowledgeable diplomat on Saudi Arabia. This book, Vision or Mirage, is a deeply learned and nuanced account of the kingdom’s history, politics and economics. Without illusions or an ideological axe to grind, Rundell offers acute observations about the strengths and weaknesses of the country, based on nearly two decades of having lived and served in Saudi Arabia. He brings the country’s remarkable story up to the present and explains the important transformations taking place under King Salman and his son crown prince Muhammad (MBS) and what is at stake in their success or failure. You will not find a better book on the kingdom. -- Bernard Haykel, Professor of Near East Studies, Princeton University; Co-Author Saudi Arabia in TransitionThe author of this book is "pro-Saudi", and at the same time he is entirely objective. He reconciles direct opposites not by fudging the differences, but by offering us his uniquely deep knowledge of a country and a state that remain poorly documented. This is a very valuable book. -- Edward Luttwak, , Senior Associate at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Washington D.CWhenever I landed in Jeddah or Riyadh and wanted to discover what was really going on, the ‘man-in-the-sand’ whose expertise I always sought out first was David Rundell, the Quiet American who had the ‘ inside scoop’ on the politics, the business and, above all, the people of the ever-challenging Kingdom — the ‘Rundell Rumble’. Dave was always just back from some oasis or tribe or border territory where secret things were happening, or heading for the desert to pow-wow with the king. So pow-wow now with Dave as his brilliant book generously discloses a lifetime of wisdom and insights that take the reader inside one of the world’s most enigmatic and crucially important of lands. Saudi Arabia? It’s all in here . . . Whenever I landed in Jeddah or Riyadh and wanted to discover what was really going on, the ‘man-in-the-sand’ whose expertise I always sought out first was David Rundell, the Quiet American who had the ‘ inside scoop’ on the politics, the business and, above all, the people of the ever-challenging Kingdom — the ‘Rundell Rumble’. Dave was always just back from some oasis or tribe or border territory where secret things were happening, or heading for the desert to pow-wow with the king. So pow-wow now with Dave as his brilliant book generously discloses a lifetime of wisdom and insights that take the reader inside one of the world’s most enigmatic and crucially important of lands. Saudi Arabia? It’s all in here . . . -- Robert Lacey, author of The Kingdom and Inside the Kingdom‘A thorough historical and contemporary guide to the enigma that is the House of Saud, to its Kingdom and to its latest political intrigues. A great single read on a complex subject, key to understanding the Arab World’s likely evolution. Should be prescribed reading for a new generation of political leaders.’ -- Sir Richard Dearlove, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the University of London; Former Chief of the Secret Intelligence Service (MI6); Former Master of Pembroke College, CambridgeAmidst an array of parabolic pressures ranging from geopolitical forces to economic uncertainty and domestic instability, the House of Saud has long been one of the most powerful families in the Middle East. In spite of this, it faces a number of existential challenges as it moves into the 21st century. Vision or Mirage: Saudi Arabia at the Crossroads offers a fascinating and timely exploration of how the Al Saud dynasty has retained power which is essential in understanding how the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia may evolve in the coming years. -- Simon Mabon Senior Lecturer, Lancaster University; author of Houses Built on Sand, The Origins of ISIS and Saudi Arabia and IranA readable and breezy account of recent developments in Saudi Arabia as well as the author’s interpretation of the transformational and polarizing trends during the last several years. It is a noteworthy contribution to the field. -- J. E. Peterson, historian and political analyst, author of Saudi Arabia Under Ibn Saud and Historical Dictionary of Saudi ArabiaDavid Rundell has more experience in Saudi Arabia than any living American diplomat. I relied upon his experience and insight during my time as ambassador to the Kingdom. Rundell’s eye for detail and meticulous research provide the reader with a compelling story of initial conquest and generations of stability followed by a tectonic rupture in the social contract among the ruler, the royal family, and the population. -- Robert W. Jordan, former U.S. Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Diplomat in Residence, John G. Tower Center at Southern Methodist UniversityThis is a scholarly and expertly crafted practitioner’s account borne of deep familiarity with Saudi Arabia. David Rundell’s remarkable book artfully weaves together the Saudi past and present--deftly analyzing both continuity and change while providing sorely needed context for understanding today’s unprecedented developments. -- Joshua Teitelbaum, Bar-Ilan University, Israel; Visiting Scholar, Center for International and Security Cooperation, Stanford University; Author of Saudi Arabia and the New Strategic LandscapeA very balanced account of what Saudi Arabia got right, which is often overlooked, and the accumulating challenges the country faces today. Carefully researched, it is neither all gloom and doom nor all-praising. -- John Sfakianakis, Fellow of Pembroke College, Cambridge; Co-author of The Saudi Economy in the Twentieth CenturyA most impressive account of the cunning manner in which King Salman is attempting to secure his family’s place in the 21st century by establishing the fourth kingdom through his son Muhammad bin Salman. David Rundell's insights into historical precedents and personal knowledge of the personalities of the individuals involved is compelling and provides a far more credible narrative of Saudi developments since the death of the late Abdullah bin Abd al-Aziz than other current analysis . -- Ambassador Mark G. Hambley, Former American Consul General in Jeddah and Ambassador to Qatar and LebanonTable of ContentsPreface Acknowledgements Introduction Part I: HISTORIC LEGITIMACY Chapter 1: The House of Saud Chapter 2: The Wars of Unification Chapter 3: The Ikhwan Revolt Part II: MANAGING SUCCESSION Chapter 4: Kings Saud and Faisal Chapter 5: Kings Khalid, Fahd, and Abdullah Chapter 6: King Salman and MBS Part III: BALANCING STAKEHOLDERS Chapter 7: The Tribes Chapter 8: The Clergy Chapter 9: The Merchants Chapter 10: The Technocrats Chapter 11: The Royal Family Part IV PROVIDING COMPETENT GOVERNMENT Chapter 12: Providing Internal Security Chapter 13: Promoting Rapid Economic Development Chapter 14: Foreign Policy: Keeping Powerful Friends Chapter 15: Foreign Policy: Deploying Oil and Islam Chapter 16:Promoting Gradual Social Change Part V ADAPTING TO CHANGE Chapter 17: Economic Challenges: Oil Prices, Diversification and Jobs Chapter 18: Security Challenges: Deploying Oil, Allies and Islam Chapter 19: Political Challenges: Pluralism, Corruption, and Participation Chapter 20: Evolving Arabia
£33.25
Atlantic Books The Path of Peace: Walking the Western Front Way
Book SynopsisBlackwell's Non-Fiction Book of the Month'A formidable achievement' Rory Stewart'Thoughtful [and] heartfelt' Observer'Profound [and] compelling' Spectator'A noble endeavour' New StatesmanWithout a permanent home, a wife or a job, and with no clear sense of where his life was going, Anthony Seldon set out on a 35-day pilgrimage from the French-Swiss border to the English Channel.The route of his 1,000 kilometre journey was inspired by a young British soldier of the First World War, Alexander Douglas Gillespie, who dreamed of creating a 'Via Sacra' that the men, women and children of Europe could walk to honour the fallen. Tragically, Gillespie was killed in action, his vision forgotten for a hundred years, until a chance discovery in the archive of one of England's oldest schools galvanised Anthony into seeing the Via Sacra permanently established.Tracing the historic route of the Western Front, he traversed some of Europe's most beautiful and evocative scenery, from the Vosges, Argonne and Champagne to the haunting trenches of Arras, the Somme and Ypres. Along the way, he wrestled heat exhaustion, dog bites and blisters as well as a deeper search for inner peace and renewed purpose. Touching on grief, loss and the legacy of war, The Path of Peace is the extraordinary story of Anthony's epic walk, an unforgettable act of remembrance and a triumphant rediscovery of what matters most in life.***A WATERSTONES BEST BOOKS OF 2022 PICK***____________________________________________'The Western Front Way, an idea that waited 100 years for its moment, is the simplest and fittest memorial yet to the agony of the Great War. Anthony Seldon's account of how he walked it, and what it means to all of us, will be an inspiration to younger generations.' Sebastian Faulks'A deeply informed meditation on the First World War, an exploration of walking's healing power, a formidable physical achievement... and above all a moving enactment of a modern pilgrimage.' Rory Stewart'A journey of self-discovery and a pilgrimage of peace... A remarkable book by a remarkable man.' Michael Morpurgo'An incredible journey that will move and inspire.' Bear GryllsTrade ReviewA thoughtful, heartfelt journey on foot along the western front of the great war * Tim Adams, Observer *Profound [and] compelling... there are many layers to this book, many cultural references, insights, thoughts and intriguing speculation. * Spectator *A noble endeavour * New Statesman *There is much to admire in [The Path of Peace]... Seldon has a historian's eye for spotting and recounting good stories. * Observer *A haunting, intense, enjoyable and memorable book. * Tristan Gooley, author of How to Read a Tree *A deeply informed meditation on the First World War, an exploration of walking's healing power, a formidable physical achievement... and above all a moving enactment of a modern pilgrimage. * Rory Stewart *In this compelling and well-balanced book, Seldon reaches some valuable and poignant insights, both about the ways we commemorate and remember the War and about his own life. * Times Literary Supplement *A journey of self-discovery and a pilgrimage of peace... A remarkable book by a remarkable man. * Michael Morpurgo *The Western Front Way, an idea that waited 100 years for its moment, is the simplest and fittest memorial yet to the agony of the Great War. Anthony Seldon's account of how he walked it, and what it means to all of us, will be an inspiration to younger generations. * Sebastian Faulks *An incredible journey that will move and inspire. * Bear Grylls *Timely, poignant and passionate. Seldon skilfully weaves the personal with the historical * Katya Adler *A dazzling journey... The Path of Peace is a beautiful and generous gift. * Olivette Otele *A beautifully-written heartfelt book. * Cherie Lunghi *A timely, eloquent and convincing reminder that to forget the carnage of the past is to open the door to it happening again. If anyone needs persuading that a 1,000 kilometre Western Front Way would be both civilising and educational this is the book they should read * George Alagiah *A compelling mix of travelogue and history, nature-writing and reflection * Church Times *A mesmerising and deeply impressive book unlike any other on the First World War. * David Yelland *[A] great read. * The Great Outdoors *[I]n a book market packed with every type of First World War tome, this one truly deserves to be read. * Military History Matters *Table of Contents1: The Silent Witnesses 2: Kilometre Zero 3: Alsace 4: The Vosges 5: Lorraine 6: Verdun 7: Champagne-Argonne 8: The Aisne and Marne 9: Picardy 10: The Somme 11: Artois 12: Forgotten Flanders 13: Ypres Salient 14: To the Sea 15: Epilogue
£10.99
Methuen Publishing Ltd Time to Declare: Second Innings
Book Synopsis
£14.24
Profile Books Ltd Age of Conquests: The Greek World from Alexander
Book SynopsisThe ancient world that Alexander the Great transformed in his lifetime was transformed once more by his death. The imperial dynasties of his successors incorporated and reorganized the fallen Persian empire, creating a new land empire stretching from the shores of the Mediterranean to as far east as Bactria. In old Greece a fragile balance of power was continually disturbed by wars. Then, from the late third century, the military and diplomatic power of Rome successively defeated and dismantled every one of the post-Alexandrian political structures. The Hellenistic period (c. 323-30 BC) was then one of fragmentation, violent antagonism between large states, and struggles by small polities to retain an illusion of independence. Yet it was also a period of growth, prosperity, and intellectual achievement. A vast network spread of trade, influence and cultural contact, from Italy to Afghanistan and from Russia to Ethiopia, enriching and enlivening centres of wealth, power and intellectual ferment. From Alexander the Great's early days building an empire, via wars with Rome, rampaging pirates, Cleopatra's death and the Jewish diaspora, right up to the death of Hadrian, Chaniotis examines the social structures, economic trends, political upheaval and technological progress of an era that spans five centuries and where, perhaps, modernity began.Trade ReviewA wide-ranging and lively history of the Greek East that offers a rare combination of erudition and accessibility. -- Andrew Erskine, University of EdinburghConveys all the richness and excitement of an extraordinary era in human history -- Tom Harrison, University of St AndrewsAnyone interested in the great cultural achievements of the ancient Greek world will profit greatly from this ambitious book by a leading historian. -- Alain Bresson, author of 'The Making of the Ancient Greek Economy: Institutions, Markets, and Growth in the City-States'Angelos Chaniotis brings the Hellenistic age to life with remarkable learning, mastery of evidence, and sensitivity. His book offers a brilliant picture of the cosmopolitan Greek world and shows why it still matters to us today. -- Phiroze Vasunia, author of 'The Gift of the Nile: Hellenizing Egypt from Aeschylus to Alexander'Angelos Chaniotis conveys all the richness and excitement of an extraordinary era in human history in this new work. The period of Greek history after the death of Alexander is the story of the rise and fall of empires and kingdoms, of a new global Greek world stretching from Cyrenaica to Afghanistan, and of the struggle of the cities of the 'old' Greek world to maintain their position. But it is also a period of intense cultural and scientific creativity, in which rulers were widely worshiped as gods, and where for the first time our sources reveal details of the lives of everyday Greeks and foreigners. There is no one who knows the evidence for the long Hellenistic Age better than Angelos Chaniotis-and in Age of Conquests he brings this canvas to life. -- Tom Harrison, University of St AndrewsThe period that begins with the conquests of Alexander the Great and ends with the reign of the Roman emperor Hadrian is one of the most important and tumultuous in world history. Jesus Christ, Cleopatra, Julius Caesar, and Nero are only a few of the figures who lived during this era. Greeks and Greek-speakers played a crucial role during these years and bear witness to a number of astonishing phenomena - the emergence of Christianity, the consolidation of the Roman Empire, the founding of the library in Alexandria, and lasting developments in philosophy, literature, political thought, and technology. Angelos Chaniotis brings the Hellenistic age to life with remarkable learning, mastery of evidence, and sensitivity. His book offers a brilliant picture of the cosmopolitan Greek world and shows why it still matters to us today. -- Phiroze Vasunia, author of 'The Gift of the Nile: Hellenizing Egypt from Aeschylus to Alexander'A valuable read for anyone interested in Greek, Hellenistic, or Roman history * NYMAS Review *This is the most original history of the Hellenistic period to appear ... Excellent -- S. M. Burstein * CHOICE connect *
£13.49
Signal Books Ltd Honour and the Sword: The Culture of Duelling
Book SynopsisThe popularity of the musical, Hamilton, featuring the death of Alexander Hamilton in a duel with Aaron Burr, then Vice President of the United States, has revived interest in duelling, but also aroused incredulity that such events could ever have occurred. Where did the custom originate, and why did it spread so quickly all over Europe and the Americas? Duelling was once commonplace. Prime ministers and poets, artists and journalists, and even some ladies went out to the 'field of honour'. Casanova fought with a Polish nobleman in Warsaw, the Duke of Wellington duelled with an English earl in Hyde Park and the Russian poet Pushkin died in a duel in St Petersburg. There were many enigmas associated with the phenomenon. As well as displaying skills with the sword or the pistol, a duellist had to silence problems of conscience. Could duelling be squared with the commandment against killing one's neighbour? Did the fact that both parties were inspired by a gentlemanly code of Honour make the duel superior to a vulgar brawl? The moral justification of duelling intrigued thinkers and intellectuals. Dr Johnson returned to the issue several times, while Rousseau was baffled by the question. Duels added drama to mediocre novels or plays, but featured in the theatre of Shakespeare and later in the work of such masters as Walter Scott, Conrad, Chekhov and Pirandello. Duelling has been too long regarded as an embarrassing sideline in western culture, but for centuries it was an integral part of history. Joseph Farrell attempts to clarify what the duel actually was and why men ever behaved that way. Exploring the social and cultural forces that encouraged what now seems an extraordinary anachronism, he traces the international evolution of the duel - and its many representations in literature and art - from Renaissance Italy to the whole of Europe, including Britain, and onto the US.Trade Review'This splendid book, rich in examples of courage and folly, provokes thought. Read it once for pleasure. Then ponder its significance in our time of false news and slanderous speech.'--The Scotsman
£17.00
University of Hertfordshire Press PlaceNames and Landholding in Early Medieval England
a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.
£16.14
Old Street Publishing The Shortest History of Ancient Rome
£13.49
Old Street Publishing The Death of Stalin
Book Synopsis
£11.69
Two Rivers Press Empress Matilda My Story
Book Synopsis
£9.49
State University of New York Press Progressives on the Hudson
Book Synopsis
£20.90
Nomad Publishing The Gaza Marine Story
£21.25
Frances Lincoln A Short History of Flowers
Book SynopsisGarden and social historian Advolly Richmond (of Gardener’s World) unravels the surprising histories of 60 flowers that shape our gardens. Have you ever wondered where your favourite garden flowers came from? Where their names derived? Or why some cultivars go in and out of favour? Every flower in your herbaceous border has a story, and in this book Advolly Richmond takes you on a tour of the most intriguing, surprising and enriching ones. Tales of exploration, everlasting love and bravery bring these beautiful flowers to life. Advolly has dug down to uncover the royalty, scholars, pioneers and a smuggler or two that have all played a part in discovering and cultivating some of our favourite species. From the lavish and exotic bougainvillea, found by an 18th century female botanist in disguise to the humble but majestic snowdrop casting a spell and causing a frenzy. These plants have played piv
£15.29
Tuttle Publishing Japanese Shibori Gift Wrapping Papers 12 Sheets
Book SynopsisThese fine-quality tear-out sheets feature 12 prints inspired by the centuries-old art of Japanese shibori - a process of hand-dyeing fabric.
£11.39
Quarto Publishing PLC Warriors, Witches, Women: Mythology's Fiercest
Book SynopsisMeet mythology’s fifty fiercest females in this modern retelling of the world’s greatest legends. From feminist fairies to bloodsucking temptresses, half-human harpies and protective Vodou goddesses, these are women who go beyond long-haired, smiling stereotypes. Their stories are so powerful, so entrancing, that they have survived for millennia. Lovingly retold and updated, Kate Hodges places each heroine, rebel and provocateur fimly at the centre of their own narrative. Players include: Bewitching, banished Circe, an introvert famed and feared for her transfigurative powers. The righteous Furies, defiantly unrepentant about their dedication to justice. Fun-loving Ame-no-Uzume who makes quarrelling friends laugh and terrifies monsters by flashing at them. The fateful Morai sisters who spin a complex web of birth, life and death. Find your tribe, fire your imagination and be empowered by this essential anthology of notorious, demonised and overlooked women.Trade ReviewHodges looks at mythology through a feminist lens, showcasing 50 of the fiercest females in this modern retelling of the world’s greatest legends...Lee-Merrion’s illustrations bring these strong personalities to life. * Publishers Weekly *With subjects ranging from Kali and Baba Yaga to La Llorona and Maman Brigitte, this is an appealing overview of mythical women who have become mainstream icons. * Booklist | ALA *From the famous Greek bringer of misfortune Medusa, to the Jewish demon Lilith and the Japanese supernatural beast Futakuchi-Onna, this collection of tales explores both the myths that saturate Western fame and the legends you’ve yet to hear about — but trust me, after you get to know them, these magical ladies are impossible to forget. * BookTrib *Table of ContentsFOREWORD INTRODUCTION CHAPTER 1 WITCHES Wise women, soothsayers and healers HECATE Greek: goddess MORGAN LE FAY. British: enchantress and fairy CIRCE Greek: goddess/witch BABA YAGA Slavic: witch CASSANDRA. Greek: prophet THE PYTHIA. Greek: priestess/witch BERCHTA. Southern German/Austrian: goddess WHITE BUFFALO CALF WOMAN Indigenous American/Lakotan: spirit RHIANNON Celtic: goddess/fairy CHAPTER 2 WARRIORS Fighters, strategists and bringers of justice ARTEMIS Greek: goddess ANATH Northwest Semitic: goddess DIVOKA SARKA Bohemian: warrior FREYJA Norse: goddess THE FURIES Roman/Greek: goddesses CIHUATETEO Meso-American: spirits KALT Hindu: goddess YENNENGA Mossi, African: princess JEZEBEL Hebrew/Christian: queen CHAPTER 3 BRINGERS OF MISFORTUNE Destructors, havoc-wreakers, harbingers of doom HEL Norse: goddess MORR.GAN Celtic: goddess THE VALKYRIES Norse: spirits PONTIANAK Malay: ghost BAOBHAN SITH Scottish: vampire LILITH Jewish: demon LOVIATAR Finnish: goddess HARPIES Greek: monsters MEDUSA Greek/Roman: monster LA LLORONA Mexican: spirit BANSHEE Celtic: spirit, fairy FUTAKUCHI-ONNA Japanese: supernatural beast CHAPTER 4 ELEMENTAL SPIRITS Lightning bolt-throwers, commanders of fire and ice, creators of the planet TIAMAT Babylonian: goddess MAMI WATA African/American: goddess PELE Hawaiian: goddess SELKIES Scottish: creatures MARI Basque: goddess THE LADY OF LLYN Y FAN FACH Welsh: fairy THE RAINBOW SERPENT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, Australia: gender-fluid goddess/god MAZU Mazuism/Buddhism/Taoism/Confucianism: goddess EGLĖ THE QUEEN OF SERPENTS Lithuanian: woman CHAPTER 5 MUNIFICENT SPIRITS Bountiful deities, generous spirits, domestic goddesses TARA Buddhism/Hinduism: goddess MADDERAKKA Sámi: spirits THE MOIRAI Greek: incarnations of destiny BRIGID Celtic: goddess and saint ERZULIE DANTOR AND ERZULIE FREDA Vodou: goddesses BONA DEA Roman: goddess AME-NO-UZUME Japanese: goddess INANNA Mesopotamian: goddess MA’AT Egyptian: goddess LIEU HANH Vietnamese: goddess MAMAN BRIGITTE Voudou: goddess GLOSSARY FURTHER READING MYTHOLOGICAL WOMEN PLAYLIST ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AUTHOR BIOGRAPHY
£17.09
Whittles Publishing The Long Journey
£22.49
Simon & Schuster Diplomacy
Book SynopsisA brilliant, sweeping history of diplomacy that includes personal stories from the noted former Secretary of State, including his stunning reopening of relations with China.The seminal work on foreign policy and the art of diplomacy. Moving from a sweeping overview of history to blow-by-blow accounts of his negotiations with world leaders, Henry Kissinger describes how the art of diplomacy has created the world in which we live, and how America’s approach to foreign affairs has always differed vastly from that of other nations. Brilliant, controversial, and profoundly incisive, Diplomacy stands as the culmination of a lifetime of diplomatic service and scholarship. It is vital reading for anyone concerned with the forces that have shaped our world today and will impact upon it tomorrow.
£16.14
