Humour collections and anthologies Books

Book SynopsisBrian Bilston has been described as Twitter's unofficial Poet Laureate. With over 400,000 followers on social media, Brian has become truly beloved by the online community. He has published collections of poetry, You Took the Last Bus Home; Alexa, what is there to know about love?; and Days Likes These. His novel Diary of a Somebody was shortlisted for the Costa First Novel Award. He has also published a collection of football poetry, 50 Ways to Score a Goal, and his acclaimed poem Refugees has been made into an illustrated book for children.Trade ReviewBrian Bilston is a laureate for our fractured times -- Ian McMillanBilston is a magician with words * The Guardian *Part John Cooper Clarke, part Frank Sidebottom . . . brilliant * Esquire *

Read more less

Book SynopsisTHE HILARIOUS, MUST-HAVE HANDBOOK FOR ANYONE WHO HAS HAD TO ENDURE THE BULLSH*T OF THE MODERN WORKING WORLD. Are you a total failure at work? Do you struggle with simple tasks like using the phrase moving forward in every email? Have you never used the word synergies in a LinkedIn post? You need W*nkernomics.Picture the scene. You''re sitting in a meeting at work. Your colleagues are deep in serious discussion. Terry says he wants an end-to-end, digital-first solution by COB Friday. Fiona says she''ll have to take that offline and circle back later. And then quite suddenly, you catch yourself thinking, ''hang on... what the f*ck are they talking about?'' Like, seriously, what do those words even mean?W*nkernomics is for anyone who has ever been told to reach out, touch base, drill down, or optimise their ducks on the same songsheet. Learn how to:* Navigate endless meetings* Master passive aggressive emails* Outmanoeuvre your colleagues with nothing more than an obnoxious LinkedIn profile, a pack of Post-it Notes and the phrase ''circle back''.W*nkernomics will help you navigate workplace hell like a boss.

Read more less

Book SynopsisMore than 1,000,000 copies sold!Don''ts for Husbands is a facsimile of the original 1913 edition, containing hundreds of snippets of entertaining advice for a happy marriage. While some are quirkily of their time, and rich with fascinating insights into the history of relations between the sexes, many contain wisdom that rings true more than 100 years after they were written.Inside you can find advice on topics such as habits, jealousy, household management, hobbies and even hints on finance. There is much wisdom to be taken from this little book to ensure matrimonial bliss:''Don''t forget to be your wife''s best friend as well as her husband. True friendship in marriage does away with all sorts of trouble.''''Don''t insist upon having the last word. If you know when to drop an argument, you are a wise man.''''No doubt you are a very clever fellow, and it is an education for her to listen to you, but she also may have some views worth mentioning.''This charming pocket-sized edition is perfect as a Christmas stocking filler, or as a gift (along with the matching Don''ts for Wives) for newly-weds, engagements and anniversaries.Trade Review'Words of wisdom for a happy marriage from nearly a century ago... The advice comes from a set of guidebooks on marriage written on the eve of the First World War which are predicted to shoot to the top of the bestseller list. The somewhat old-fashioned 'Don'ts for Husbands and Wives' penned by Blanche Ebbutt in 1913 were first published at a time when women stayed at home while their husbands went out to work. Times have changed since then, but the advice could be considered as relevant today as ever.' Daily Mail, May 28, 2007 'Tips for a happy marriage published nearly a century ago look set to be a hit this year. The guidebooks are seen now as amusing and wise - and relevant in 2007.' Daily Express, May 29, 2007 '[The author's] wit and wisdom are set to find a new audience... [they] evoke a world where domestic servants were taken for granted and men viewed women as second-class citizens, to be patronised or set to work on domestic tasks. Wives receive sisterly instructions designed to make them the best possible partners for the flawed, often ridiculous men they have married.' The Times, May 28, 2007 'Today they are enough tomes about men being from Mars and weird rules of dating... so it is expected that Blanche Ebbutt's oeuvre will provide more comedy value than useful advice. And yet... there are eternal verities there... There are plenty of gloriously retro bits about women censoring their men's socks and husbands learning to "lead" rather than "drive" their wives; but who could argue when Ebbutt says that there is an art in being married, and that you should not "exhaust your artistic power in getting married" but put some effort into staying that way... What is required, Ebbutt hints from the grave, is simple niceness: be as considerate towards a life partner as towards a friend... So, go on: clear up those pencil sharpenings, chaps. And women, tell Him Indoors that his hair looks nice. Can't hurt, can it?' Libby Purves, The Times, May 29, 2007 'Really charming but ultimately wise little books, great ad hoc wedding gifts and also very funny.' Matthew Perren, I-on (September 2007)Table of ContentsPreface 1. General Habits 2. Personal Relations 3. Jealousy 4. Hints on Finance 5. Household Matters 6. Recreation and Holidays 7. Health 8. Dress 9. Hobbies 10. Food 11. Children

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisBrian Bilston is a poet and novelist. His poetry collections include You Took the Last Bus Home, Alexa, what is there to know about love?, Let Sleeping Cats Lie: Pet Poems, Days Like These: An Alternative Guide to the Year in 366 Poems and a festive collection, And So This is Christmas: 51 Seasonally Adjusted Poems. His debut novel, Diary of a Somebody, was shortlisted for the Costa first novel award. He has also published a collection of football poetry, 50 Ways to Score a Goal, and his acclaimed poem Refugees has been made into an illustrated book for children.

Read more less

Book SynopsisInspired by the wit and wisdom of the Right Honourable John Bercow MP, arguably the only MP to come out of Westminster's handling of Brexit with a shred of dignity, Be More Bercow will help you declare orr-derrr in your life.Every day we are faced with a multitude of polarized views: at home, at work and on social media. But how should we navigate these choppy and socially precarious waters? Who is going to put some order and structure to this crazy upside-down world we have found ourselves in? The answer is YOU!Comprising witty quotes from the man himself ('I don't want to crawl over the entrails of past disputes'), fun self-improving activities (sort elements of your life into the 'noes' and 'ayes' lobbies, unlock and declare a winner) and inspiring stories from the Speaker (in 1996 to enable himself to attend selection meetings for two safe Conservative seats almost simultaneously, he chartered a helicopter and duly won the nomination for Buckingham). Be More Bercow is the only companion you need for your journey through the Brexit process and beyond.

Read more less

Book SynopsisAway, you scullion, you rampallion, you fustilarian! Along with penning some of the most sublime passages in all of English Literature, Shakespeare was a master when it came to casting a wicked comeback or hurling a barbed insult. Whether it's Prospero calling Caliban a 'freckled whelp, hag-born' in The Tempest or King Lear railing against his daughter Goneril with the damning words, 'Thou art a boil, a plague sore, an embossed carbuncle in my corrupted blood', Shakespeare didn't hold back when it came to getting creative with his slights. Packed full of eloquent stings and poisonous putdowns, this is the perfect resource for anyone looking to scorn an enemy – without resorting to swearing! 'Away, you starvelling, you elf-skin, you dried neat's-tongue, bull's-pizzle, you stock-fish!' Henry IV Part I (Act 2, Scene 4). 'Away, you three-inch fool.' The Taming of the Shrew (Act 4, Scene 1). 'Go, prick thy face, and over-red thy fear, Thou lily-liver'd boy.' Macbeth (Act 5, Scene 3). 'The tartness of his face sours ripe grapes.' The Comedy of Errors (Act 5, Scene 4). Table of ContentsAbuses and Affronts • Lovers' Insults • Villainous Jibes • Poisonous Putdowns • Smart Stings • The Best Barbs.

Read more less

Book SynopsisTHE NO. 1 SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER - NOW INCLUDING BRAND NEW MATERIALTHIS IS GOING TO HURT was the bestselling non-fiction book of the century - a frank, funny and furious look at the brutal realities of life in the NHS.But it was only part of Adam Kay''s story. With his stethoscope now hung up, Adam shares more suture-splitting anecdotes from both on and off the wards. From the hilarious to the profoundly moving, from the first days of medical school to life after the NHS, UNDOCTORED is an astonishing portrait of an extraordinary life, from one of Britain''s finest - and funniest - storytellers.Trade ReviewBrilliant - even better than This is Going to Hurt * Jacqueline Wilson *Very funny, very moving - Adam Kay has done it again, the talented c***. PS sorry for swearing in this quote * Charlie Brooker *Adam Kay is at the top of his game here. Even his footnotes are funnier than most comedians' best gags. But there is darkness here, too, and he handles it so well I had to lay the book aside until my heart was ready for the rest. * Ian Rankin *Every bit as funny as the first one, every bit as powerful, surprising and unflinching * David Whitehouse *I don't think anyone has made me laugh so much about the human body as Adam Kay, while simultaneously bestowing the gift of impotent rage at the state of the NHS * Reverend Richard Coles *Spectacularly brilliant * Cathy Rentzenbrink *A gaspingly honest, hilarious and heartbreaking book from one of Britain's funniest writers * Grace Dent *The anecdotes are hilarious, the personal life fascinating, the insights into our health service compelling. * Daily Mail *Extraordinary... super-readable, funny and disturbing. * Observer *Equally frank and funny as its predecessor. * I-News *Hilarious... such is (Adam Kay's) craft and candour that you find yourself simultaneously guffawing and welling up. * Mail on Sunday *A funny, truthful and fascinating memoir. * Stylist *Richly comic. Kay's writing is a constant pleasure. * Daily Express *Piercingly funny... breathtakingly sad. * Tanya Gold, Daily Telegraph *Fantastic. Everything you could want in a book. * Liz Jones's Diary Podcast *The reason Adam Kay sells millions of books is not because he used to be a doctor, it's because he writes so well. Undoctored is another triumph; funny and moving and thoughtful. * Dr Phil Hammond *Thank you, Adam Kay [...] for your courage, candour, wit (and filth, of course) in your brilliant new memoir. Undoctored really is fantastic. * Rachel Clarke, author of Dear Life *Extraordinary... combining laugh-out-loud material with serious questions. - The Sunday Times

Read more less

Book Synopsis'So funny it will make you sick' TIME OUT'Cooper's letters are absurd, pointless and very, very funny' RICKY GERVAIS'The funniest book you'll read' THE GUARDIAN _______________The massive bestselling book featuring the wonderfully silly letters of Robin Cooper (aka Friday Night Dinner creator Robert Popper).For several years, Robin Cooper has been plaguing department stores, hotels, associations, fan clubs and a certain children's book publisher with his letters. So who is Robin Cooper? Architect, thimble designer, trampoline tester and wasp expert, he is all of these things – it just depends on who he is writing to...This cult hit is a collection of Robin's mad-cap letters to everyone from Prince Charles to the Peanut Council, Harrods to the British Halibut Association – no one is safe. The resulting replies, as well as Cooper's replies-to-these-replies, will have you in hysterics. Letter writing will never be the same again.Trade ReviewAbsolutely hilarious, this is the one book I'll be buying for all my friends this Christmas * The Bookseller *It's pure comedy platinum and the book I've laughed to more than any other * Shortlist *So funny it will make you sick * Time Out *

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn THE MYSTERIUM David Bramwell and Jo Keeling (authors of THE ODDITORIUM), present a user guide to the strange and unexplained corners of modern life. THE MYSTERIUM catalogues a host of bizarre, funny and intriguing stories for a post-Nessie generation still fascinated by the unknowable. Drawing on contemporary folklore, unsolved mysteries, and unsettling phenomena from the dark corners of the internet, this book celebrates the joy of asking questions and the thrill of finding answers which stop you dead in your tracks.Featuring a group of men who scared themselves to death, Space''s version of the Bermuda Triangle, a cat who can sniff out the dying and the tale of Slender Man, the monster who stepped out of Photoshop and into our nightmares, this fascinating book is a catalogue of the extraordinary, the strange, the mysterious and the downright creepy.

Read more less

Book Synopsis'Joyfully entertaining. Full of warmth, wisdom and affectionate delight in the wonder and absurdity of being human.' Observer'Funny, honest and heart-warming.' Matt HaigWhat better way to understand ourselves than through the eyes of comedians - those who professionally examine our quirks on stage? In this touching and witty book, award-winning presenter and comic Robin Ince uses the life of the stand-up as a way of exploring some of the biggest questions we all face. Where does anxiety come from? How do we overcome imposter syndrome? What is the key to creativity? How can we deal with grief? Informed by personal insights as well as interviews with some of the world's top comedians, neuroscientists and psychologists, this is a hilarious and often moving primer to the mind.Trade ReviewJoyfully entertaining... full of warmth, wisdom and affectionate delight in the wonder and absurdity of being human. * The Observer *Accessible [and] intriguing... a smart, laugh-out-loud book. * Evening Standard *Funny, honest and heart-warming. * Matt Haig – author of Reasons to Stay Alive *Clever, witty and wise. It's very revealing about the psychology of comedians - and the rest of us. * Claudia Hammond – presenter of BBC Radio 4’s All in the Mind *Clever, funny, kind and interesting - just like Robin. * Sara Pascoe, comedian and author of Animal *Deceptively deep. Invaluable and inspiring. * Stewart Lee, comedian and author of How I Escaped My Certain Fate *Charming, funny, throbbingly intelligent... A memorable, joyful, gorgeous read -- Deborah Frances-White * Observer *Moving, funny and interesting! Robin leads us on a fascinating journey through our often quirky minds. * Jo Brand, comedian *Profound, compassionate, eye-wateringly funny and immensely human. Robin investigates the big questions of the human condition with the razor-sharp insights and sensibilities of one of our very best stand-up comedians. * Alan Moore, writer of V for Vendetta *One of the UK's most accomplished, versatile comedians. * Guardian *Moving and insightful... This wide-ranging and well-researched book hides its deceptive depth in an easy to read, witty and conversational style. * Irish Times *Fascinating... One of the best books ever written about what it means to be a comedian... it's certainly a must-read for anyone interested in the workings of comedy and comedians, but probably for anyone interested in the workings of human beings in general. * Chortle *Insightful, informed, touching and funny in equal measure. * Richard Wiseman, Professor of Psychology *Parts of the book are hilarious, parts of it heartbreaking... Easy to devour, and a real pleasure to read. * Chemistry World *For a comedy book, Robin Ince's I'm a Joke and So Are You doesn't ask the usual question - 'What is wrong with comedians?' - but instead shows the quirks and weird thoughts we all fear are unique to ourselves are not as strange as we think. It's a book about the human mind and one that leaves you feeling a lot less alone in yours. * The Skinny, Book of the Year 2018 *In addition to being royally entertained I was also educated... * The Psychologist *Table of ContentsIntroduction: Shouting at Strangers for Money 1: Tell Me About Your Childhood 2: The Brain, Hardware and Chemistry 3: Talking About Myself Behind My Back 4: Daydreaming for a Purpose 5: Is There a Real You? 6: Getting to Know Your Inner Fraud 7: Anxiety and the 'Imp of the Mind' 8: Morals and Temptations 9: Death, Where Is Thy Punchline?

Read more less

Book SynopsisDon''ts for Husbands and Don''ts for Wives are facsimile editions of the original books published by A&C Black in 1913. Each pocket-sized book contains hundreds of snippets of entertaining advice for a happy marriage, which rings true almost 100 years after it was written.The reissued titles are ideal Christmas stocking fillers, and gifts for weddings, engagements and anniversaries.Advice appears under the following chapters:1. Personalities2. How to Avoid Discord3. Habits4. Financial Matters5. Evenings at Home6. Jealousy7. Recreation8. Food9. Dress10. Entertaining11. Household Management12. Children''Among the bon mots there is much wisdom. They would make great stocking fillers, or wedding anniversary gifts!'' Good Book Guide (October 2007)Trade Review'Words of wisdom for a happy marriage from nearly a century ago... The advice comes from a set of guidebooks on marriage written on the eve of the First World War which are predicted to shoot to the top of the bestseller list. The somewhat old-fashioned 'Don'ts for Husbands and Wives' penned by Blanche Ebbutt in 1913 were first published at a time when women stayed at home while their husbands went out to work. Times have changed since then, but the advice could be considered as relevant today as ever.' Daily Mail, May 28, 2007 'Tips for a happy marriage published nearly a century ago look set to be a hit this year. The guidebooks are seen now as amusing and wise - and relevant in 2007.' Daily Express, May 29, 2007 '[The author's] wit and wisdom are set to find a new audience... [they] evoke a world where domestic servants were taken for granted and men viewed women as second-class citizens, to be patronised or set to work on domestic tasks. Wives receive sisterly instructions designed to make them the best possible partners for the flawed, often ridiculous men they have married.' The Times, May 28, 2007 'Today they are enough tomes about men being from Mars and weird rules of dating... so it is expected that Blanche Ebbutt's oeuvre will provide more comedy value than useful advice. And yet... there are eternal verities there... There are plenty of gloriously retro bits about women censoring their men's socks and husbands learning to "lead" rather than "drive" their wives; but who could argue when Ebbutt says that there is an art in being married, and that you should not "exhaust your artistic power in getting married" but put some effort into staying that way... What is required, Ebbutt hints from the grave, is simple niceness: be as considerate towards a life partner as towards a friend... So, go on: clear up those pencil sharpenings, chaps. And women, tell Him Indoors that his hair looks nice. Can't hurt, can it?' Libby Purves, The Times, May 29, 2007 'her words on kindness and consideration are as useful today as they were nearly a century ago - and the books themselves, tiny little volumes, are adorable.' The Times (December 07)Table of ContentsPreface 1. Personalities 2. How to Avoid Discord 3. Habits 4. Financial Matters 5. Evenings at Home 6. Jealousy 7. Recreation 8. Food 9. Dress 10. Entertaining 11. Household Management 12. Children

Read more less

Book SynopsisBoris Johnson, the UK's new Prime Minister, has ruled out holding an early general election. But, as we've seen, anything can happen in today's politics. There are few politicians who could genuinely be described as a phenomenon. Boris Johnson is undoubtedly one. With a shake of that foppish blond mop, a glimmer of his madcap smile and the voice of a demented public school boy, Boris provides comedy gold every time he opens his erudite mouth. The allure of this blundering rapscallion to many on the Tory benches and to the membership of the Conservative Party at large is all too obvious. He says what few others will say in public and, indeed, he will do so on the record - appearing to care little what people think of him or his views. This book is big on fun, comedy, life and spirit. Containing a selection of the very finest Boris-isms and illustrated by specially commissioned cartoons, The Big Book of Boris is a highly amusing read, straight from the gaffe-strewn mouth of Britain's most colourful politician.

Read more less

Book SynopsisChurchill in Quotes celebrates the life and wit of this iconic figure – combining archive photography with the inspiring speeches, wry remarks and cutting comments he was known for. Sir Winston Churchill, statesman, orator and former Prime Minister was a man whose words gave hope and inspiration to the British people, and many are as relevant today as they were during the war years. Churchill's speeches were not always confined to serious political rhetoric and motivation: his off-the-cuff quips and comments displayed a wry wit and humour. This book is a celebration of an outstanding figure in British history, presented in almost 200 photographs, hand-picked from the vast archives of the Press Association, many of which have remained unseen since they were first published in the newspapers and magazines of their day. SELLING POINTS: . Updated format of bestselling Churchill in Quotes with a refreshed and contemporary design . Includes 200 historical images from the archives of the Press Association . Photography of major events in Churchill's life and career

Read more less

Book SynopsisLet's face it—all birds are fascinating, wonderful, idiotic jerks—no matter where in the world they reside. Following in the footsteps of the bestselling book The Field Guide to Dumb Birds of North America, this hilarious sequel ventures beyond to identify the stupidest birds around the world. Featuring birds from North and South America, Africa, Asia, Europe, and Oceania, author Matt Kracht identifies the dumb birds that manage to live all over the freaking place with snarky, yet accurate, names and humorous, anger-filled drawings. This guide book details exactly how much these morons suck with facts about each bird's (annoying) call, its (stupid) migratory pattern, and its (downright tacky) markings. Complete with a matching game, bird descriptor checklist, tips on how to identify a bird (you can tell a lot by looking into a bird's eyes, for example), this profanity-laden book offers a balance of fact and wit that will appeal to hardcore birders and casual bird lovers (and haters) alike. A MUST-HAVE: A must-have sequel to the bestselling parody book The Field Guide to Dumb Birds of North America. UNIQUE & LAUGH-OUT-LOUD FUNNY: This is a great coffee table or bar top conversation-starting book. And a bonus, while the content is humorous, it is practical and useful! A GREAT PRESENT: This is the perfect gift for the bird lovers and haters in your life. It also makes a great Mother's Day, Father's Day, birthday, retirement, or gag gift. Perfect for: Birdwatching and nature enthusiasts Armchair birders (or nonbirders) Someone who needs a quirky gift for an animal lover friend People with serious birders in their lives who want something lighthearted

Read more less

Book SynopsisAS FEATURED IN WATERSTONES BEST BOOKS OF 2023From bestselling author and beloved Guardian columnist John Crace comes a blisteringly hilarious tour through the whirlwind of post-Brexit Britain, from the ousting of Boris to the dawn of a new era . . . sort of. O brave new world, that has such people in't. Or not. William Shakespeare clearly had never imagined a clusterf*ck on this scale. Given the state of the country right now, he would be in need of a long lie down.Another month, another prime minister - how many have we been through now? But fear not: despite all the nonsense that has spewed forth from Westminster over the past two years, John Crace's brilliantly lacerating political sketches have provided the nation with some desperately needed relief.Taking in everything from Partygate, BoJo's drawn-out farewell and the disastrous reign of Liz Truss, to thepsychodrama of the Tory leadership contest(s), the return of Rishi Sunak and the shenanigans of his impressively inept colleagues, Depraved New World is a worryingly funny collection which captures British politics at its most absurd.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA box-set facsimile collection of three classic SNOOPY comic strip books - SNOOPY, SNOOPY, COME HOME and SUNDAY'S FUN DAY, CHARLIE BROWN. With each book containing 128 pages, that's over 360 pages of classic Peanuts daily and Sunday newspaper comic strips to enjoy. Including art cards featuring the cover art from the individual books. This boxed set collects the first three Snoopy-centric books and many of your favourite characters, including Snoopy, Charlie Brown, Lucy, Linus, Pig-Pen, Schroeder and Woodstock. Discover the world of Snoopy as he battles to save his beloved doghouse, fantasies about being a dinosaur and embarks on his epic career as the Phantom Punter, that is when he's not dancing, avoiding cats or pondering on the vagaries of life. SNOOPY (1955-1958) 9781782761594 SNOOPY, COME HOME (1955-1962) 9781787737051 SUNDAY'S FUN DAY, CHARLIE BROWN (1962-1965) 9781787737099

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisSuitable for those who are curious about things for which no words exist, and have a mild interest in random Yorkshire villages with quirky names, this dictionary of toponymy and etymology features some of the obscurely wonderful, often unheard of and wastefully under-used place names of this county.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Mr Men and Little Miss have been tickling children for generations with their funny and charming antics. This series gives adults the chance to laugh along as the Mr Men and Little Miss try to cope with the very grown-up world around them. Featuring Roger Hargreaves classic artwork alongside hilariously funny new text.Some of the Little Misses are going to be mums and they''re approaching the news in the only way they know how. Little Miss Curious has a million questions, Little Miss Tidy is planning the perfect birth and nursery and Little Miss Greedy is eating her body weight in pickles. Will pregnancy and new motherhood be all they expect it to be?The perfect book for any mum-to-be who is excited and nervous about what motherhood might bring.Trade ReviewThe colourful characters have been delighting children since Mr Tickle first appeared on bookshelves in 1971.The IndependentThe timeless Mr Men books capture modern stereotypes perfectly.The TelegraphThe Mr Men and Little Miss characters remain a cultural phenomenon, whose impact is felt far beyond the nursery bookshelf.The Telegraph

Read more less

Book Synopsis**JOHN CRACE'S NEW BOOK DEPRAVED NEW WORLD IS AVAILABLE NOW**Infectiously entertaining political satire, from the author of Decline and Fail and I, Maybot.Throughout another year of bluster and bedlam in Westminster, John Crace's brilliantly acerbic political sketches have once more provided the nation with a much-needed injection of humour.In A Farewell to Calm, Crace introduces an infectiously funny selection of his finest pieces from 2020-21, taking in everything from a summer of unfathomable U-turns to Christmas Covid confusion, and from lockdown-lifting to Brexit blithering.Led by Boris's poundshop Churchill tribute act, and featuring a cast of everyone's least favourite pantomime villains, from Classic Dom Cummings to Door Matt Hancock, the end result is a brilliantly entertaining chronicle of another tumultuous year on these benighted islands.

Read more less

Book SynopsisKnow your tater trap from your sniffle herring in Sharp's journey around the world in idioms, proverbs and general nonsense - the perfect gift for Christmas

Read more less

Book SynopsisFinally, the acclaimed Rueben Award-nominated webcomic is collected! Follow the timely and terrifying adventures of Lil’ Donnie, the worst president in the history of the United States of America! This collection contains the first year of antics of a truly motley crew of weirdos and degenerates as they work (HA!) to make our world a better place... for them FOR THEM! Get one while we still have a first amendment! Collects the first 125 LIL’ DONNIE comic strips

Read more less

Book SynopsisSir Winston Churchill remains a British hero, lauded for his oratorical skill. He wrote histories, biographies, memoirs, and even a novel, while his journalism, speeches and broadcasts run to millions of words. From 1940 he inspired and united the British people and guided their war effort. Behind the public figure, however, was a man of vast humanity and enormous wit. His most famous speeches and sayings have passed into history but many of his aphorisms, puns and jokes are less well known. This enchanting collection brings together hundreds of his wittiest remarks as a record of all that was best about this endearing, conceited, talented and wildly funny Englishman. Also available in the series:(9781782433651) The Wicked Wit of Queen Elizabeth II(9781782435426) The Wicked Wit of Oscar Wilde(9781782435662) The Wicked Wit of Jane Austen

Read more less

Book SynopsisFrom award-winning greetings card designer Rosie Made a Thing comes an invaluable handbook for all of those afflicted with adulthood'.It's not easy being a grown-up.From surviving ever-more apocalyptic hangovers, relationship niggles and endless laundry, to trying to stay healthy whenwellcake.But with this book, your besties and a big glass of wine, these tricky adult situations may be a little easier to navigate.If not, try adding some gin.

Read more less

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

Read more less

Book SynopsisBest friend to Charlie Brown, brother to Lucy, lovable Linus shares his outlook on life in this beautifully produced gift book for all generations. In his incomparable style, Linus spends his days fiercely protecting his security blanket, dodging the insults of his big sister, considering the flavour of his thumb and waiting for the Great Pumpkin to finally appear. For the millions of faithful Charles Schulz fans, and those who fondly remember this philosophical little boy with his blanket, this new series of books sees the beguiling Peanuts gang share their sentiments on everything from food to friendship.Trade ReviewI became obsessed . . . It's hilarious. We all went to school with a Lucy, or a Linus -- JUDE LAWIt's impossible to think of another popular art form that reaches across generations the way the daily comic strip does . . . at the pinnacle of that long tradition, there was Charles Schulz * * Seattle Times * *The world of Peanuts is a microcosm, a little human comedy for the innocent reader and for the sophisticated -- UMBERTO ECOCharles Schulz was, plain and simple, a great artist and philosopher . . . But most importantly, he teaches all ages that if you can learn to laugh at the things that cause you the most pain you will be the strongest of all. Peanuts: a real way of life -- JOHN WATERSCharles Schulz was an American treasure - an artist, philosopher, and keen observer of human life -- BILL CLINTON

Read more less

Book SynopsisTHE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER80TH BIRTHDAY EDITION - NOW WITH 10 NEW TALL TALES!'Connolly's raucous run through his life is as furious, funny and foul-mouthed as you'd expect' Sunday TimesIn December 2018, after fifty years of belly-laughs, energy and outrage, Billy Connolly announced his retirement from live stand-up comedy. It had been an extraordinary career.When he first started out in the late sixties, Billy played the banjo in the folk clubs of Scotland. Between songs, he would improvise a bit, telling anecdotes from the Clyde shipyard where he'd worked. In the process, he made all kinds of discoveries about what audiences found funny, from his own brilliant mimes to the power of speaking irreverently about politics or explicitly about sex. He began to understand the craft of great storytelling. Soon the songs became shorter and the monologues longer, and Billy quickly became recognised as one of the most exciting comedians of his generation.Billy's routines always felt spontaneous. He never wrote scripts, always creating his comedy freshly on stage in the presence of a live audience. A brilliant comic story might be subsequently discarded, adapted or embellished. A quick observation or short anecdote one night, could become a twenty-minute segment by the next night of a tour.Billy always brought a beautiful sense of the absurd to his shows as he riffed on his family, hecklers, swimming in the North Sea or naked bungee jumping. But his comedy can be laced with anger too. He hates pretentiousness and calls out hypocrisy wherever he sees it. His insights about the human condition have shocked many people, while his unique talent and startling appearance on stage gave him license to say anything he damn well pleased about sex, politics or religion. Billy got away with it because he has always had the popular touch. His comedy spans generations and different social tribes in a way that few others have ever managed.Tall Tales and Wee Stories brings together the very best of Billy's storytelling for the first time and includes his most famous routines including, The Last Supper, Jojoba Shampoo, Incontinence Pants and Shouting at Wildebeest. With an introduction and original illustrations by Billy throughout, it is an inspirational, energetic and riotously funny read, and a fitting celebration of our greatest ever comedian.Trade ReviewA read that entirely fits the personality of the extreme personality who wrote it, Connolly's raucous run through his life is as furious, funny and foul-mouthed as you'd expect. His stand-up knack for easy storytelling shines through * Sunday Times *A read that entirely fits the personality of the extreme personality who wrote it, Connolly's raucous run through his life is as furious, funny and foul-mouthed as you'd expect. His stand-up knack for easy storytelling shines through * Sunday Times *Wild and whirling . . . it reads like a talking book * Observer *Wild and whirling . . . it reads like a talking book * Observer *Connolly's writing is so much like his speech you can hear him as you read. * Evening Standard *Connolly's writing is so much like his speech you can hear him as you read. * Evening Standard *A glorious memoir full of insights into the funnyman's life and career. Hilarious. * Prima *A glorious memoir full of insights into the funnyman's life and career. Hilarious. * Prima *The Big Yin Bible * The List *The Big Yin Bible * The List *A very humorous read * Daily Stock Dish *A very humorous read * Daily Stock Dish *One of stand-up's great naturals. No one told a story better. * Guardian *One of stand-up's great naturals. No one told a story better. * Guardian *Raucous and side-splitting * Yours *Raucous and side-splitting * Yours *Wry, sometimes sacrilegious, often absurd and outrageously funny * The Senior AU *Wry, sometimes sacrilegious, often absurd and outrageously funny * The Senior AU *Gloriously, unashamedly peppered with swearing, bodily functions and drunken behaviour . . . you will laugh, guffaw and snort your way through this remarkable book * The Wee Review *Gloriously, unashamedly peppered with swearing, bodily functions and drunken behaviour . . . you will laugh, guffaw and snort your way through this remarkable book * The Wee Review *Bracingly sweary, robustly rude and brilliantly original, this is essential reading for fans of the Big Yin. * Daily Mail *Bracingly sweary, robustly rude and brilliantly original, this is essential reading for fans of the Big Yin. * Daily Mail *This book brings together the best of his stories...and offers something of a potted history of a life of spontaneous performance on stage. * Irish Independent Review *This book brings together the best of his stories...and offers something of a potted history of a life of spontaneous performance on stage. * Irish Independent Review *

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisA celebration of all the weird and wonderful books to be found at an antiquarian bookshop.Books have the power to enrich the soul, to enliven the senses, to expand our horizons and others are simply mad. This wonderful celebration of the oddest books ever published is a treat for all bibliophiles, booksellers and fans of the bizarre. It is an exploration of the most eccentric titles and covers from our past, that have inexplicably fallen out of print but should never be forgotten.Gems include:Scouts in BondageFrog Raising for Pleasure and ProfitPremature Burial and How It May Be PreventedDrummer Dick's Discharge

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

WHAT MAKES US HAPPY? BILL BAILEY PLAYS CRAZY GOLF AND HUGS TREES TO FIND OUT.'A warm, funny read, full of personal anecdotes and love letters to things that bring Bill Bailey pleasure' Sunday Mirror'Very thoughtful and written in a delightfully humorous and accessible way... Guaranteed to make [you] smile' Daily ExpressIs there a knack to being happy? From paddle-boarding down the Thames in a Santa hat, to wild swimming in a glacial river and cooking sausages on a campfire, Bill revels in the exhilaration of the outdoors, as well as the quieter pleasures of letter-writing, or of simple reflection.In this beautiful and uplifting book, Bill Bailey explores all this and more while delving into the nature of happiness, all in his own, remarkable, way.Packed with wisdom and humour, and with delightful illustrations by the comedian himself, Bill Bailey aims for the heart of pure joy and contentment - and how we can all achieve it.*Bill Bailey: Thoughtifier will tour UK arenas in February and March 2024*

Read more less

Book SynopsisHilaire Belloc was born in France in 1870. As a child, he moved with his mother and siblings to England. As a French citizen, he did his military service in France before going to Oxford University, where he was president of the Union debating society. He took British citizenship in 1902 and was a member of parliament for several years.A prolific and versatile writer of over 150 books, he is best remembered for his comic and light verse. But he also wrote extensively about politics, history, nature and contemporary society. Famously adversarial, he is remembered for his long-running feud with H. G. Wells. He died in in Surrey, England, in 1953.

Read more less

Book SynopsisBrian Bilston has been described as Twitter's unofficial Poet Laureate. With over 400,000 followers on social media, Brian has become truly beloved by the online community. He has published three collections of poetry, You Took the Last Bus Home; Alexa, what is there to know about love?; and Days Like These. His novel Diary of a Somebody was shortlisted for the Costa First Novel Award. He has also published a collection of football poetry, 50 Ways to Score a Goal, and his acclaimed poem Refugees has been made into an illustrated book for children.

Read more less

Book SynopsisEver wondered what we get up to behind closed doors? This anonymous collection of postcards will show you, in glorious technicolour detail. Following on from her bestselling Lockdown Secrets, queen of postcards Eleanor Tattersfield turns her attention to the sex lives of the nation. This time round, she put out a call on social media for people to reveal their deepest, darkest, funniest and even their most unsavoury sex habits, in postcard form. She was overwhelmed by replies, and the very best of them are collected in this book, hand-crafted and beautifully decorated. You’ll be shocked and seduced by the themes explored, where truly anything goes! Salacious, scurrilous and very definitely saucy, this book is not for the faint-hearted but provides a fascinating record of how we take our pleasures.Trade Review‘Veering from the erotic, to the hilarious, to the astonishing, Sex Secrets throbs with energy and honesty, and will make a great stocking filler.’ Love Reading

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn exquisitely-written, generous, funny, thoughtful book about the everyday joys of being alive. I love it.' Dolly AldertonJ. B. Priestley is one of our literary icons of the 20th Century and it is time that we all became re-acquainted with his genius.' Dame Judi DenchMy apology, my little bit of penitence, for having grumbled so much, for having darkened the breakfast table, almost ruined the lunch, nearly silence the dinner party, for all the fretting and chafing, grousing and croaking, for the old glum look and the thrust-out lower lip. So my long-suffering kinsfolk, my patient friends, may a glimmer of that delight which has so often possessed me, but perhaps too frequently in secret, now reach you from these pages.'There are times when there doesn't seem much to smile about. And for those times, there is this book. J. B Priestley's 1949 classic teaches us that joy may be found in even the simplest things, and that we all have the capacity to appreciate them.Delight comprises a serTrade Review‘J. B. Priestley was one of the great authors of the twentieth century and a prose writer of great skill and charm. His essays were in the grand tradition of Hazlitt and Lamb, Chesterton and Belloc. I am delighted to hear that Delight is back in print – these wonderful essays are among his finest.’ Paul Johnson, The Spectator ‘I had this book pressed into my hands by someone during an unsteady time and it helped pick the lint off my jacket, straighten my lapels and push me out into the world again. It helped me appreciate my own pockets of pleasure.’ Hannah Jane Parkinson, The Guardian 'A vastly talented and exceptionally versatile and wise writer.' Iris Murdoch 'Priestley was volcanic, fertile … and never dull.' Anthony Burgess ‘A marvellous writer.’ David Hockney ‘We all know his plays, now is the time to be re-introduced to his novels.’ Timothy West ‘He belongs in a great English realist tradition that includes Bennett and Galsworthy.’ Michael Billington ‘An important book that has a literary importance and social value that far exceeds the time it was written.’ Dame Beryl Bainbridge ‘Written in the elegant, simple language which was an essential part of Priestley’s brilliance. It is, in consequence, a masterpiece.’ Roy Hattersley

Read more less

Book SynopsisA hilarious comic collection by Susie Yi, creator of the Instagram sensation Cat and Cat Comics.Our feline friends can be quite mysterious, but you're about to get a front-row seat to their innermost thoughts. Learn how cats train their humans, what they get up to when you're at work, the precise number of seconds they will permit you to pet them for and what they really think of your singing.Organised into sections, the comics provide humans with insight into cat love, cat demands, cat judgements, cat schedules, cat wisdom, cat ego, cat gratitude, cat physics and cat relationships.This purrfect collection of Cat and Cat Comics is guaranteed to make you laugh, cry and generally improve your day.

Read more less

Book SynopsisDogs throughout history have enjoyed a special relationship with humankind, and our favourite four-legged creatures continue to grow in popularity. The writers and poets collected within this anthology reflect on the joys and pitfalls of dog ownership with brilliant wit, insight, and affection. From Roald Amundsen’s account of using and eating sled dogs in his expedition to the South Pole, to J.R. Ackerley’s tender portrayal of his ill-behaved dog Tulip, ON DOGS traces the canine’s journey from working animal to pampered pet. With a humorous introduction by Tracey Ullman (an inveterate adopter of strays), and 6 characterful dog portraits by animal photographer Rhian ap Gruffydd and a cover image by Picasso of his dog Lump. Contributors include Alice Walker, Charles Dickens, James Thurber, Miranda Hart, Brigitte Bardot, A.A. Gill, David Sedaris, Barbara Woodhouse, and many more.Trade Review"The infectious joy of dogs figures large in On Dogs: An Anthology, introduced by the actor and comedian Tracey Ullman. Although she is a devoted dog-lover…the selections in the anthology are not all feel-good. S everal are dark or poignant pieces on a dog’s death; others offer sour or sardonic comments on pet dogs. The collection is an eclectic mixture drawn from fiction, poems, anecdotes, and scientific or philosophical essays….It is… an enjoyable collection in which many aspects of our complex relationship with dogs are touched on.” — David E. Cooper, The TLS “This heartwarming compendium includes short essays, stories, reflections and poetry from note- worthy writers ranging from Virginia Woolf and David Sedaris to Shakespeare and Brigitte Bardot. A linen-bound hardcover sized to fit perfectly in the hand, it’s ideal for gift-giving.” — The Bark “Introduced by Tracey Ullman, this elegant, pocketsize tribute to our most loyal friends is realised in excerpts from novels, poems and literary theory.” — Louise Darblay, Art ReviewTable of ContentsContributors: Shakespeare, Alice Walker, Charles Dickens, Alexandre Dumas, James Thurber, Miranda Hart, Roald Amundsen, Will Self, Roger Scruton, Mikhail Bulgakov, J.M. Barrie, Jack London, Barbara Woodhouse, Lord Byron, Brigitte Bardot, A.A. Gill, J.R. Ackerley, Jack London, John Steinbeck, David Sedaris, Virginia Woolf, Attila Jozsef, Charlotte Perkins Gilman, Dr Temple Grandin, Vita Sackville-West, Barbara Woodhouse, George Catlin, Elizabeth Gaskill, Kathryn Hughes, David Redmalm, Father Mark Osborne, Heli Chatelain, Eileen Battersby, Wislawa Szymborska & the Dowager Empress of China Tzu-his.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisHorrific and hilarious a dystopic vision of an England that would have given Orwell the heebie-jeebies' Independent''A brilliant work of satire'' The QuietusA SCARFOLK SANCTIONED BOOKAUTHORISED EDITION, AS SEEN ON THE RADIOThe Scarfolk Annual is the facsimile of a book discovered in a charity shop in the north west of England in August 2018. The shop, and indeed town, do not wish to be identified as they are keen to discourage the occult-totalitarian tourism' that as afflicted other areas of Britain as people hunt for further socio-archaeological traces of the mysterious, missing town of Scarfolk Britain's own Brutalist Atlantis.Apart from the archive of Scarfolk materials which was sent anonymously to the late Dr Ben Motte and formed the basis of the book Discovering Scarfolk, this children's annual is, to date, the only complete artefact from Scarfolk ever to be unearthed in the wild'.It's clear The Scarfolk Annual was not written to entertain children at Christmastime; its purposeTrade Review ‘The blackest of black humour. One of “the year's most essential books”’ Daily Mail ‘Horrific and hilarious… a dystopic vision of an England that would have given Orwell the heebie-jeebies’ Independent ‘Now you have a whole new reason to be scared. The Scarfolk Annual is essential reading’ Fortean Times ‘Hilarious. As on target and inventively addressed as anything in the Hitchhiker’s Guide series. [Littler] translates the sensibility to a 21st Century audience in a way that no other writer descended from [Douglas] Adams has come close to achieving’ The Beat ‘The syphilitic twin of Royston Vasey. Debauched and wrong and sickening and very very good’ Robin Ince ‘The Scarfolk Annual demands that you read it multiple times to decode every secret inside it. It’s so well-constructed that it will catch out those who only look at things for their face value. A brilliant work of satire’ The Quietus ‘Deceptively simple … an unpredictably wonderful, brilliant piece of political satire’ Boing Boing ‘One of the funniest things there is’ Mark Gatiss ‘Always a joy to see their little faces darken on the morning of December 25th when they unwrap the Scarfolk Annual’ Ian Rankin ‘It deserves to be discovered on bookshelves by poor unsuspecting souls for years to come’ We Are Cult ‘In these brain shattering days, Scarfolk is your guide and only friend … Bitingly funny, sometimes scary, and always brilliant’ Richard Kadrey, author of Sandman Slim ‘Funny nostalgia from a parallel universe not entirely unlike ours’ Al Murray ‘Not just a satirical look at the present via a warped nostalgic lens, but also a strangely beautiful graphic design object. Funny, creepy & an Orwellesque triumph of graphic design’ Anne Billson ‘Delightfully terrifying’ Gigslutz ‘Funny, bitter, weird and chilling in equal measure, and never less than witty and wonderful’ Warren Ellis

Read more less

Book SynopsisTHE SUNDAY TIMES TOP TEN BESTSELLER'A delight!' Zoe Ball, BBC Radio 2'Very entertaining.' Irish Times**From UKIP surge to Brexit shambles, horsemeat lasagne to Trump in the White House: bestselling comedian David Mitchell brilliantly tackles the dumbfounding times we live in.As facts are downgraded to opinions, as customers are preyed upon by algorithm-wielding websites, voters by targeted lies, cinema-goers by superheroes and children by measles, it is probably socially irresponsible even to try to cheer up.But if you're determined to give it a go, you might enjoy this eclectic collection (or eclection) of David Mitchell's attempts to make light of all that darkness. Scampi, politics, the Olympics, terrorism, condiments, proportional representation and rude street names are all touched upon by Mitchell's unremitting laser of chit-chat. Read this book and slightly change your life!

Read more less

Book SynopsisPeanuts is the most popular comic strip in the history of the world. Its characters - Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, Schroeder, and so many more - have become dearly loved icons for generation after generation. Now Charles Schulz's classic, Peanuts, will be reprinted in its entirety for the first time. In these beautifully produced editions, the strip will be presented in full in chronological order. They will be the ultimate books for Peanuts' fans the world over. These first volumes will be of particular fascination to Peanuts aficionados. Many of the strips from the series' first two or three years have never been collected before, in large part because they showed a young Schulz working out the kinks in his new strip. They include some characterizations and designs that are quite different from the cast we all know, including Snoopy's debut as a puppy!Trade ReviewThese timely re-issues illustrate not only the skill and subtle brilliance of his work but also the origins of the form beyond simple merriment. * * The List * *

Read more less

Book SynopsisHow easy is it to fall off a log? Where is the middle of nowhere? Do we really have no bananas? The readers of OLD GIT magazine are a batty, befuddled, potty-mouthed bunch, who seem to spend a significant chunk of their spare time corresponding with the publication''s popular letters page. DO ANTS HAVE ARSEHOLES? is a very funny, very silly collection of questions and answers taken from this column, none of which has any basis whatsoever in fact. A must for all those who relish a heady mixture of shaggy-dog stories, toilet humour and utter lack of insight.Trade ReviewA very funny spoof of pop-science collections * Telegraph *The finest example of man-friendly Q&A bog books out there * Zoo *Every year, one funny book seems to stand out from all the others. This year, it's Do Ants Have Arseholes?... a rip-roaring parody... * The Spectator *The book being touted as this year's can't-miss, downstairs-loo-fixture of a dead-cert publishing-phenomenon-cum-stocking-filler sensation... * The Guardian *

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisWhich king ordered everyone to bed at 8pm? How many Pot Noodles are sold every second in Great Britain? How many streets must a London cabbie memorise in order to pass 'the knowledge'? How much does the hammer of Big Ben's bell weigh? If you want to know the answers to these and a whole host of other questions about Blighty, then this is the book for you! Great Britain is a nation steeped in history, traditions and terrible food. But how much do we really know about our weird and wonderful island? In this informative, amusing and fun compendium of knowledge, author Hannah Warner reveals a host of things you probably don't - but should - know about your country. This entertaining collection includes fascinating facts about royalty, politics, history, food and drink, sport, writers, transport - and even Great British failures. It is a celebration of the great and the good (plus those who were not so great but tried hard) from this land. So once you've taken the bulldog for a walk, queued for your fish and chips, made a nice cup of tea and put your feet up, sit back and revel in all that is glorious about Great Britain!

Read more less