Humour Books
Hodder & Stoughton The Wit of Golf
Book SynopsisA bumper bag of humorous anecdotes and amusing tales from golf''s best-loved personalities that proves golf is a funny old game - birdies, bunkers and all! Read hilarious stories covering everything from caddies to the clubhouse by the game''s all-time great characters, including Peter Alliss, Nick Faldo, Sandy Lyle, Sam Torrance and Ian Woosnam. Enjoy the humour of legendary players such as Seve Ballesteros, Tony Jacklin, Jack Nicklaus, Lee Trevino and Tiger Woods, as they share the funny side of playing in the Open Championship and the Ryder Cup. Laugh-out-loud at celebrity golfers Bruce Forsyth and Michael Parkinson''s rib-tickling anecdotes about pro-am tournaments. THE WIT OF GOLF is a wonderful collection of jokes, stories and anecdotes, perfect for any golf fan.
£11.69
Bonnier Books Ltd Win Or Die: Lessons for Life from Game of Thrones
Book SynopsisWhy do people follow Jon Snow into battle? What makes Tyrion Lannister such an effective advisor? How has Daenerys Targaryen overcome so many challengers? And, in stressful life situations, how can you avoid losing your own head? Westeros is a harsh, volatile and bloody landscape, but so is the real world. Every day you're presented with challenges; decisions on which roads to take, which risks to confront and whether you should answer the call to adventure and go for the option that's outside of your comfort zone. From the middle of the battleground, it can be difficult to see where the victory lies. In this fascinating book, leading business expert Bruce Craven analyses the various players in the Game of Thrones world, following their moves as they learn how to face conflict, build resilience, develop contextual and emotional intelligence, improve their long-term vision and more. An entertaining and accessible guide through our dangerous work, home and social lives, Win or Die shows that even when enemies are at the city gates and dragons circle above, you too can turn threat into opportunity, win the mental battle and get to the top of your game.
£9.49
Chronicle Books The Field Guide to Dumb Birds of America
Book SynopsisAn illustrated guide to and compendium of all the stupid birds in our backyards.
£10.44
Chronicle Books I Could Pee on This And Other Poems by Cats
Book Synopsis
£9.49
John Murray Press Cheer Up Love
Book Synopsis''DEEPLY HONEST, SURPRISINGLY HILARIOUS AND UPLIFTING'' The Pool ''HEART-WARMING: UNMISSABLE'' Damian Barr, MetroSusan Calman is a much-loved comedian and writer who has appeared on countless radio and television programmes from The News Quiz and Just a Minute to Armchair Detectives and Secret Scotland. She''s hosted the podcast Mrs Brightside and stole the nation''s hearts in Strictly Come Dancing. Her breakout solo stand up show, Susan Calman is Convicted, dealt with subjects like the death penalty, appearance and depression. It was the overwhelming and positive reaction to the show she wrote about mental health that made Susan want to write a more detailed account of surviving depression when you''re the world''s most negative and anxious person. The Crab of Hate is the personification of Calman''s depression and her version of the notorious Trade ReviewSusan Calman never fails to make me hoot with laughter * Sarah Millican *Fantastic, funny, moving... A perceptive look at depression - with added laughs' * Viv Groskop *The forthcoming, heartbreaking and heart-warming memoir from the Radio 4 favourite... Avoiding all the usual 'tears of a clown' clichés, she tackles homophobia, self-harm and finding your voice. Unmissable * Damian Barr, Metro *Deeply personal and painfully honest but funny * The Times Scotland *Calman's account of depression, though deeply honest, is surprisingly hilarious and uplifting * Hannah Varrell, The Pool *There are so many depressing books about being funny, so it's refreshing to ready a funny one about about being depressed. I have never laughed quite so heartily at someone else's genuine distress - which I hope is her intention * Miles Jupp *A really important message, but hilarious at the same time * BBC The One Show *Talked with engaging candour and humour about her own struggle to keep it at bay * Scotsman (Edinburgh Book Festival coverage) *A breezily accessible account * Metro *Wonderfully funny * BBC Woman's Hour *Candid and often laugh-out-loud-funny... There's no sense that Cheer Up Love is a deliberate act of catharsis or an attempt to hasten any kind of healing process. Instead Calman presents herself as a woman who has already come to terms with who she is * Sunday Herald *A compelling memoir... engaging insight... Susan's outstanding sense of humour shines through to create an uplifting survival handbook * The Lady *This is a book that everyone should read, and not only because it makes a serious issue both engaging and instructive... a vital account of mental ill-health * The National *A wonderful and honest book. I thoroughly endorse this product * Emma Kennedy *This is a book that, like a female stereotype, multitasks. For those who suffer from bouts of depression and mental illness it provides solace, understanding and advice. For those living with or close to people suffering from depression, it gives you insight into why some of your well meant but unhelpful or even damaging suggestions seem to fall on deaf ears. If you picked it up purely to find out what makes Susan Calman tick, where she comes from and incidents that shaped the comedian and writer here today, there's that too! * Kate Stone, Funny Women *More use than a standard self-help book * National *Her story is a pleasure to read... Calman's warmth and humour shines through * AND Guide ****PRAISE FOR SUSAN CALMAN***Glasgow-born comic Calman is a dead-cert-one-to-watch; she's got an infectious bubbly manner but a caustic edge too, and both can yield comedy gold * Guardian *Feisty Scot Calman is one of the best female comics to ever come out of the land of bagpipes and haggis. She'll make you chuckle your pants off * Time Out *Calman fizzed manic energy, alternating between confessional tales and playing with facts she teased out of the audience * Edinburgh Evening News *surely prove as useful for those in contact with depressives as it is for sufferers... the authenticity of her stories resonates more than any more formal study of depression ever could... darkly funny. * Chortle *
£9.99
Quarto Publishing Group USA Inc The Godfather Tarot
Book SynopsisThe Godfather Tarot includes an all-new tarot deck inspired by the classic film trilogy along with a companion book that profiles the characters, events, and cards.
£19.37
Hodder & Stoughton My Child and Other Mistakes: The hilarious and
Book SynopsisA Sunday Times bestseller: the unflinching, raw and utterly hilarious book about parenthood that everyone should read'Very, very, very funny' JO BRAND'Bloody hilarious' CARIAD LLOYD'Full of honesty, heart and humour' JASON MANFORD'Raw, honest and hilarious' ROSIE RAMSAY'Refreshingly honest' ROMESH RANGANATHAN'Consistently funny and life affirming' JOSH WIDDICOMBE'I want my daughters to read this book' SINDHU VEEMy Child and Other Mistakes is the honest lowdown on Motherhood and all its grisly delights, asking the questions no one wants to admit to asking themselves - do I want a child? Do I have a favourite? Do I wish I hadn't had one and spent the money on a kitchen island instead? Stand-up comic, broadcaster and actress Ellie Taylor is relatable, clever and interested in how women can have it all. Her honest, hilarious and moving account of the whys and hows of having a baby makes perfect reading for expectant mothers and fathers everywhere, as well as those who've been there, done that, and wonder how on earth they did. In this very funny book she writes candidly about her own personal experience exploring the decision to have a baby when she doesn't even like them, the importance of cheese during pregnancy, why she took hair straighteners to the labour ward, plus the apocalyptic newborn days, childcare, work and the inevitable impact on life and love and most importantly, her breasts.READERS ARE LOVING MY CHILD AND OTHER MISTAKES***** 'Should be given out by health visitors to new moms' ***** 'It's like Ellie dove into my brain and wrote about my own personal experience of motherhood' ***** 'The comfort I took knowing I'm not alone has been like therapy!'***** 'I have recommended it to all my child raising friends.'***** 'An absolute must read'
£9.49
Simon & Schuster Not Funny: Essays on Life, Comedy, Culture, Et
Book SynopsisFor fans of the perceptive comedy of Hannah Gadsby, Lindy West, and Sarah Silverman, Academy Award–nominated and acclaimed stand-up comedian Jena Friedman presents a witty and insightful collection of essays on the cultural flashpoints of today. Jena Friedman’s life in comedy began with her senior thesis on inequity in the Chicago comedy scene. It was, in short, not funny, but it anticipated her career as a writer and comedian with acerbic wit and a keen, cutting eye for social observation. Now, she brings her trademark whip-smart humor and cultural criticism to this brainy and laugh-out-loud funny essay collection. Friedman effortlessly takes us just beyond the edge of the uncomfortable with explorations on everything from why some celebrities get buried for their indiscretions while others get a second (third, and fourth…) chance, how we should think about lines of appropriateness crossed decades ago, living in the post- (post-) #MeToo world of today, and the power we hand to silence when we’re told not to joke about reproductive rights, gender, privilege, or class.Not Funny is a witty and bold collection, challenging us to deeply consider why we do and do not laugh, from a rising star of comedy always ready to call out hypocrisy wherever she finds it. And knows how to get a laugh while she does it.Trade Review"In fact very funny. And [Friedman] somehow manages to do that while taking on some of the, shall we say, darker topics, like sexism, celebrity worship, and women's rights." —Cosmopolitan“Not Funny feels as if you're having a direct conversation with Jena. A mix of lethal deadpan delivery and biting sarcasm with impressive intelligence not only makes this book phenomenal, but announces the arrival of a singular voice." —Phoebe Robinson, New York TImes bestselling author of You Can't Touch My Hair“Jena Friedman is brilliant at mining the darkness for a joke you'd never dare say, that makes you jealous you didn't think of it yourself. I am here for every word of this hilarious and much needed book.” —Samantha Bee, Emmy Award-winning comedian, actor, commentator and author of I Know I Am, But What Are You?“I feel misled. Not Funny is in fact extremely funny! And smart and thoughtful and even a little offensive, just like Jena” —Sacha Baron Cohen, actor, writer, producer, and creator and star of Borat “Jena dares you to laugh at things we're told not to laugh at, perhaps because that's how they keep us from seeing the truth. A page-turner through and through: Just when I'm thinking 'it can't be!' Jena tells you it is. And I'm laughing through it. Jena proves with her writing that not only is laughing at dark truths important, it's revolutionary.” —Atsuko Okatsuka, comedian, actress, and writer“I’ve skimmed this book and it seems pretty funny. I have every intention of reading it as soon as I finish The History of The Decline and Fall of The Roman Empire.” —Larry David, writer, actor, and co-creator of Seinfeld and Curb Your Enthusiasm“Jena’s comedy is and has always been radical. She’s dark, unapologetic, and biting. It’s really funny and a little frightening.” —Ilana Glazer, actor, writer, and co-creator of Broad City“From her sharp and fearless comedy specials, to the deadpan interviews in which she expertly skewers a fine array of sexist miscreants, Jena Friedman is actually not funny--she is hilarious and brilliant.” —Merrill Markoe, New York Times bestselling author of Walking in Circles Before Lying Down"A funny but critical look at the depradations of life as a woman comic [...] A serious memoir with jokes, self-deprecating yet rarely self-diminishing.” —Kirkus "[Jena Friedman] sparkles with the casual brilliance of fellow comedians and humor essayists Lindy West and Sarah Silverman." —Library Journal "Entertaining and soulful... this is a blast." —Publishers Weekly "Don’t let the footnotes fool you; this isn’t a dry academic treatise. . . . Perfect for fans of dark, feminist comedy such as Hannah Gadsby or Samantha Bee." —Booklist "It's no slight against comedian Jena Friedman to say that the title of her first book should be taken largely at face value. . . . For an injection of power and agency, readers could scarcely do better than Not Funny." —Shelf Awareness"Jena's always been fiercely honest both onstage and off, and this book is no exception. If you want to laugh and scream, give NOT FUNNY a read." —Naomi Ekperigin, comedian, actress, and writer
£15.29
Andrews McMeel Publishing My Heart's Content: A Journal
Book Synopsis#1 New York Times bestselling author Catana Chetwynd presents a new take on the beloved Catana Comics—a guided journal in her signature wholesome and cozy style.Catana Chetwynd presents a new twist on feel-good humor. This guided journal, illustrated in her signature style, is for couples, friends, family, and anyone who wants to learn more about themselves and their personal relationships. With wholesome prompts, insightful questions, fun activities, moments for deeper reflection, and lighthearted illustrations and stickers, My Heart's Content: A Journal for Everyone offers every person the chance to spend some quality time on themselves. Planning for the future, reflecting on the past, soaking up the present, and learning more about ourselves and the ones we love.
£15.65
Simon & Schuster Unbecoming a Lady
Book SynopsisA quippy and irreverent collection of illustrated profiles of the great American women who weren’t attractive, well-spoken, demure, or sinless enough to receive their rightful place in history, until now, from New York Times bestselling author Therese Oneill. Slut. Shrew. Sinful. Scold. The 19th- and early 20th-century American women profiled in this collection were called all these names and worse when they were alive. And that’s just fine. These glorious dames earned those monikers, and one hundred years later they can wear them proudly! They refused to conform to societal standards. They bucked everyday niceties and blazed their own trails. They were collectively unbecoming as women, but they forever changed what women can become. With irresistible charm and laugh-out-loud impertinence, New York Times bestselling author Therese Oneill chronicles the lives of eighteen unbecoming ladies whose audacity, courage
£17.00
Quarto Publishing Group USA Inc The Unofficial Real Housewives Ultimate Trivia
Book SynopsisPacked with hundreds of trivia questions, The Unofficial Real Housewives Ultimate Trivia Book will test the expertise of every superfan!
£11.69
Pan Macmillan Berserker
Book SynopsisAdrian Charles Edmondson is an English actor, comedian, musician, writer and television presenter. He studied drama at Manchester University where he met his comedy partner Rik Mayall. The influence of the absurdist dramatists he studied and his early love for The Goon Show, The Muppets and Monty Python are all reflected in his comedy practice. He and Rik were part of the first wave of Alternative Comedy where their glorious pursuit of laughter and anarchic performances changed the comedic landscape forever.He starred as Vyvyan in The Young Ones, the series that blasted its way onto our screens tearing into our preconceptions of what television comedy could be. Adrian has since had a very significant career. A career that has taken him in later years into straight' acting as well, at the RSC, BBC TV's War and Peace and EastEnders, and as a writer of books for adults and children. He has also had an award-winning music career with hisTrade ReviewBoarding school, despair, love, music, Rik Mayall – everything Adrian Edmondson writes about makes you love him desperately -- Caitlin Moran, journalist and author of How to Be a WomanThe berserker from The Young Ones and Bottom tells his story with self-effacing charm and no end of backstage anecdotes * Ian Rankin *This is a bloody good book. Lots of people live interesting lives, but very few people can write genuinely interesting books about those lives. Adrian Edmondson has done both. And while it is incredibly funny, it is also a lot, lot more than that * Miles Jupp *The bravest, most affecting celebrity book of the year * Daily Express *Edmondson can be very funny and very poignant simultaneously * Daily Mirror *A hilarious romp through a golden era of comedy and a searingly honest and moving memoir * Red Magazine *
£18.70
Renard Press Ltd Wit and Acid: Sharp Lines from the Plays of
Book Synopsis'If you want to tell people the truth, make them laugh, otherwise they'll kill you.' One of the most prolific and respected playwrights of the twentieth century, Bernard Shaw's legacy shows no signs of waning, and his beautifully written plays, laced with wry wit and invective alike, have seen countless performances over the years, their finest lines paraded in literary conversation and review. Meticulously selected by Simon Mundy, the Wit and Acid series collects the sharpest lines from Shaw’s oeuvre in small neat volumes, allowing the reader to sample some of the very best barbs and one-liners the twentieth century has to offer, and this, the first volume, covers lines from the great writer’s works published before 1911.Trade Review'He was a Tolstoy with jokes, a modern Dr Johnson, a universal genius who on his own modest reckoning put even Shakespeare in the shade.' (The Independent)
£8.21
Michael O'Mara Books Ltd The World’s Stupidest Tweets
Book SynopsisSometimes you press the button without thinking ... you know it’s a mistake but there’s no way back, you’ve posted something really stupid. It doesn’t make sense ... it’s littered with spelling mistakes ... you’ve missed the point ... Oh, God! I’d do ANYTHING to take that back! Other times, you read tweets that are just plain dumb!In this laugh-out-loud collection, you’ll find a selection of the really stupid things people post: · ‘I hate grapes. They discuss me.’ · ‘I want my first daughter to be a girl.’ · ‘Hope I done well in the English exam.’ With hundreds of examples of the very best (worst) tweeted howlers that range from the silly to the bewildering, The World’s Stupidest Tweets is guaranteed to keep you chuckling!
£6.99
The History Press Ltd Flaws of Nature: The Limits and Liabilities of
Book SynopsisSpecies evolve over time to become perfectly adapted to their environments, right?Well, sometimes.Consider that an elephant will not grow a seventh set of teeth, even though wearing down the sixth will condemn it to starvation; that hosts of the European cuckoo seem unable to tell that the overgrown monster in their nest is not their own chick; and that whales are fully aquatic mammals who, millions of years after first abandoning the land, still cannot breathe underwater.This book is about evolution, but not its greatest hits. Instead, it explores everything in the animal kingdom that is self-defeating, ill-made, uneconomical, or downright weird – and explains how natural selection has favoured it. In the grand struggle for survival, some surprising patterns emerge: animals are always slightly out-of-date; inefficiency tends to increase over time; predators usually lose, and parasites usually win. With equal parts humour and scientific insight, Andy Dobson is here to explain the how and why of evolution’s limits and liabilities.Trade Review‘A delightful exploration of the diversity of life and the shortcomings of evolution.’ Dave Goulson, author of A Sting in the Tale and Silent Earth‘A lively, entertaining and highly readable account of natural selection in all its quirky glory.’ Nessa Carey, author of The Epigenetics Revolution and Junk DNA‘A wonderful read – witty and profound, this book upends the usual way of thinking about evolution, instead highlighting the flaws, dead ends and downright nastiness that natural selection produces as it goes on its aimless and morally neutral way.’ E.J. Milner-Gulland, Tasso Leventis Professor of Biodiversity, University of Oxford
£15.29
Quiller Publishing Ltd Some Damn Fool's Signed the Rubens Again
Book SynopsisThe artist Norman Thelwell (1923–2004) was famous for his horse and pony cartoons, but his work was far more wide ranging. He focused his exceptional talent and humour on many diverse subjects, with his witty and wry observations providing amusement and sharp social comment. Some Damn Fool’s Signed the Rubens Again is Thelwell’s look at life in Britain’s stately homes, and what happens when they are opened to the public. Here are the castles, country estates, and the quirks of the British class system all depicted in the artist’s inimitable style. When an ancestral home is crumbling, or an aristocratic family is debt-ridden, the solution calls for drastic action. It is time to welcome in the paying public. Thelwell’s cartoons capture the comic situations that result when the noble residents come face to face with the curious visitors. See the duke in his tower preparing to repel the coachloads with boiling oil; a ghost train in the family vault; toddlers wrecking treasured heirlooms; and animals in the safari park watching the hilarious human spectacle unfold.Trade Review'This is a lovely book to gift a friend or just to have sitting on a coffee table.' -- Country Squire, January 2024
£15.19
Haymarket Books Socialism . . . Seriously: A Brief Guide to
Book SynopsisA sharp, funny, and engaging introduction to socialist ideas, movements, and solutions for a world in crisis.Now with 50% more socialism!Socialism…Seriously is a warm and witty introduction to the radical traditions of protest and politics that stretch from Karl Marx through today’s movements for democracy, equality, and a livable planet. In this thoroughly revised and expanded edition, Danny Katch uses humor and imagination to take an unflinching look at the rising threats posed by climate change, billionaire oligarchs, and the far right—and makes a compelling case that a socialist world is both necessary and possible.Katch separates the lies spun by capitalism’s defenders from the system’s brutal realities, and is candid about debates and challenges facing the socialist movement today. This book is for people who want to take a deeper look at what socialism is… but maybe not that deep.Sincere, irreverent, informative, and playful, Socialism… Seriously is a unique and timely contribution to our movements for justice.Trade Review"[W]ith his humorous dissecting of the inanities of capitalism and his ability to make socialist ideas accessible and attractive, Katch makes a compelling case throughout his book for why we should still do everything we can to bring such a world into existence." —The Indypendent“Socialism… Seriously is a refreshing embrace of socialism as an alternative to the greed, inequality, racism and xenophobia of the capitalist world we are living in.”—Keeanga-Yamahtta Taylor, author of From #BlackLivesMatter to Black Liberation“Give this book to your grandma, your mailman, to everyone except your boss—it’s the most fun and accessible introduction to socialist ideas I’ve ever read.”—Anand Gopal, author of No Good Men Among the Living“Read Socialism… Seriously, then pass it on to a friend. It's the perfect gateway drug to becoming the full-throttled socialist organizer that you've been waiting for.”—Hadas Thier, author of A People’s Guide to Capitalism“Capitalism was a system built to be skewered. But to do it right, you need the political chops and you need to know how to make the jokes. Danny Katch checks every box and his Socialism….Seriously is a necessary book.”—Dave Zirin, author of The Kaepernick Effect“Everyone* will love this book.”*Billionaires, multi-million dollar corporations, and yacht-owning CEOs not included.—Judah Friedlander, World Champion“I've been waiting for someone to write this book—a lighthearted, easy read that packs an intro course on socialism into a short volume. With jokes that made me laugh out loud, and a lot of heart. Socialism is for lovers. Indeed.”—Sarah Jaffe, author of Work Won't Love You Back“The promise of a more lovely world is worth our best energies and our sustained commitment—Danny Katch shows us that socialism is for lovers, not losers.”—Bill Ayers, author of Demand the Impossible!“Danny Katch brings the socialist vision to life.”—Bhaskar Sunkara, editor of JacobinTable of ContentsIntroduction2040: A Cold Day in PhiladelphiaPart I: The End?1 All is Not Lost2 Ghost StoriesPart II: Capitalism3 Welcome to the Jungle4 Freedom and the Fine Print5 The Deep StatePart III: Socialism6 Workers Power7 Land Back 8 Revolution?9 Wait, is this Communism?Part IV: The Beginning2040: A Hot Day in Queens10 Will Socialism be Boring? 11 Is Socialism a Religion? Should it Be?Conclusion: Here’s Exactly What To Do When You Finish this Book
£14.24
Smith Street Books We Heart Harry Special Edition: 50 Reasons Your
Book SynopsisA love letter to Harry Styles, a pop star who’s a sign of the times. Now with stickers!The world may have had to say goodbye to One Direction, but that hasn’t stopped Harry Styles from stealing our hearts. From the swoop of his boy band bangs to his sheer Gucci look on the runway, the singer, actor and all-around dreamboat is a tour de force of a cultural icon. But our love is deeper than his great choices in fashion. Did you know that Shania Twain is one of his idols? That he knows how to knit? That he’s bffs with Stevie Nicks? And that he’s generous with his money, donating to a long list of charities?This book is packed with 50 tidbits of Harry Styles trivia and some very serious collages. Billie Oliver can only pray that he one day sees it and graces her with a DM. (A girl can hope.) This Special Edition now includes totally heartable stickers!
£10.44
Jacaranda Books Art Music Ltd Everything's Trash, But It's Okay
Book SynopsisNew York Times bestselling author and star of 2 Dope Queens Phoebe Robinson is back with a new, hilarious, and timely essay collection on gender, race, dating, and the dumpster fire that is our world. Wouldn't it be great if life came with instructions? Of course, but like access to Michael B. Jordan's house, none of us are getting any. Thankfully, Phoebe Robinson is ready to share everything she has experienced to prove that if you can laugh at her topsy-turvy life, you can laugh at your own. Written in her trademark unfiltered and witty style, Robinson's latest collection is a call to arms. Outfitted with on-point pop culture references, these essays tackle a wide range of topics: giving feminism a tough-love talk on intersectionality, telling society's beauty standards to kick rocks, and calling foul on our culture's obsession with work. Robinson also gets personal, exploring money problems she's hidden from her parents, how dating is mainly a warmed-over bowl of hot mess, and definitely most important, meeting Bono not once, but twice. She's struggled with being a woman with a political mind and a woman with an ever-changing jeans size. She knows about trash because she sees it every day--and because she's seen roughly one hundred thousand hours of reality TV and zero hours of Schindler's List. With the intimate voice of a new best friend, Everything's Trash, But It's Okay is a candid perspective for a generation that has had the rug pulled out from under it too many times to count.
£9.49
Atlantic Books How to Be a Rock Star
Book SynopsisTHE TOP TEN BESTSELLER'Candid, brilliant and bizarre' Guardian'Stories about the frontman and his bandmates are legion ... [like] Peter Kay with menaces' The Sunday TimesAs lead singer of Happy Mondays and Black Grape, Shaun Ryder was the Keith Richards and Mick Jagger of his generation. A true rebel, who formed and led not one but two seminal bands, he's had number-one albums, headlined Glastonbury, toured the world numerous times, taken every drug under the sun, been through rehab - and come out the other side as a national treasure.Now, for the first time, Shaun lifts the lid on the real inside story of how to be a rock star. With insights from three decades touring the world, which took him from Salford to San Francisco, from playing working men's clubs to headlining Glastonbury and playing in front of the biggest festival crowd the world has ever seen, in Brazil, in the middle of thunderstorm. From recording your first demo tape to having a number-one album, Shaun gives a fly-on-the-wall look at the rock 'n' roll lifestyle - warts and all: how to be a rock star - and also how not to be a rock star. From numerous Top of the Pops appearances to being banned from live TV, from being a figurehead of the acid-house scene to hanging out backstage with the Rolling Stones, Shaun has seen it all. In this book he pulls the curtain back on the debauchery of the tour bus, ridiculous riders, run-ins with record companies, drug dealers and the mafia, and how he forged the most remarkable comeback of all time.'There are enough stories about Happy Mondays to keep people talking about them forever. Bands live on through the myth really, myth and legend' (Steve Lamacq)Trade ReviewCandid and brilliant -- Emma Garland * Guardian *Table of Contentsi: Intro 1: Myths 2: Starting a band 3: Band names 4: Rehearsals 5: Clothes and haircuts 6: Songwriting 7: Lyrics 8: Record labels 9: Live gigs 10: Riders 11: Top of the Pops 12: Drugs 13: Rehab 14: Fame 15: Rivalries 16: Interviews 17: Video shoots 18: Hotels 19: Homes 20: The recording studio 21: Producers 22: Singles 23: Artwork 24: Managers 25: Awards 26: Fans 27: Festivals 28: Touring the world 29: The tour bus 30: Musical differences 31: Teeth 32: Reality TV 33: Social media 34: Reunions 35: Encore
£9.49
Penguin Books Ltd Rules for Modern Life
Book SynopsisDo gentlemen wear shorts? What are the rules regarding interior decor in a high-security prison? Is it ever acceptable to send Valentine''s cards to one''s pets?The twenty-first century is an age of innumerable social conundrums. Around every corner lies a potential faux pas waiting to happen. But if you''ve ever struggled for the right response to an unwelcome gift or floundered for conversation at the dinner party from hell, fear not: help is at hand.In Rules for Modern Life, Sir David Tang, resident agony uncle at the Financial Times, delivers a satirical masterclass in navigating the social niceties of modern life. Whether you''re unsure of the etiquette of doggy bags or wondering whether a massage room in your second home would be de trop, Sir David has the answer to all your social anxieties - and much more besides.Trade ReviewBrilliant... Hugely entertaining * The Times *Useful and, more importantly, vastly entertaining * GQ *Incisive, outrageous and preposterously entertaining. Reading these essays in style, manners, gossip, grace and good sense is like sharing a private railway carriage with a mad but marvellous maharajah. I never wanted the journey to endFunny, clever and disgraceful. In terms of a useful guide to modern living, it knocks the New Testament into a cocked hatExcellent advice that we didn't know we neededSir David Tang is the second funniest David in the worldA trenchant and entertaining guide to negotiating the pitfalls of contemporary living * Daily Mail *I absolutely love Rules for Modern Life! David's amazing sense of humour and wit keep one glued to this 'pop culture bible' that everyone MUST read. It is not only educational but enlightening as well. Bravo David!David Tang always brings something extra to life, which is what we all wantUncompromising and full of style. You will laugh out loudSir David Tang is effortless in his sense of style and being. And that's how it should beI feel a curious joy of life when I am around David Tang. He knows bestA degree course in 21st-century decorum. It will make an aristocrat out of an arrivisteSharply funny and surprisingly informative. I would rather read style notes from the pen of Tang than any other source on the planetEloquent and humorousDavid is a life-changerFilled with valuable advice. Amusingly written and a real pleasure to readDavid Tang is the thinking woman's Fu Manchu. If you are allergic to the combination of wit, brains and mischief you won't enjoy this bookA marvellous compendium of good manners and good sense in society, reinforced with insight and sly humourAnyone who wants to move up the social ladder, or avoid sliding down, must read Rules for Modern Life. It is the essential primer for 21st century social successHilarious and edifying. Absolutely essential reading about the nuances as well as the complexities of life todayI have long admired David's irrepressible humour, quick wit and keen eye for style. This anthology is a collection of indispensable wisdomA perfect compendium of distinguished, humorous and polished advice for a gentlemanly way of livingDavid Tang has never held a commonplace opinion in his life. He is the most provocative, amusing, sophisticated, counter-intuitive and energetic man I know, and these qualities are present on every single page of this remarkable anthologyWise, witty and wicked, with useful advice for livingDavid Tang is a living treasure, a unique polymath, equally at ease thinking inside and outside the box, East, West, modern, old, refined or not. His 'rules' are anything but conventional, they are refreshing and humorous reflections on our daily actions, much more than a code of conductGenuinely hilarious. David was the only person who could make my father laugh (and who incidentally rated him and only him as being at his level as a club owner)David Tang is an astute observer of the social scene with a wicked sense of humour. A most welcome read in these dark timesDavid Tang is my 'UNCLE DAVE': Unique, Notorious, Charismatic, Lovable, Eccentric, Daring, Anal, Vivacious, EnigmaticCan't wait to read it
£10.44
Atlantic Books Lab Rats: Why Modern Work Makes People Miserable
Book SynopsisGuardian's Best Non-Fiction, 2019The Tablet's Highlights of 2019Personality tests. Team-building exercises. Forced Fun. Desktop surveillance. Open-plan offices. Acronyms. Diminishing job security. Hot desking. Pointless perks. Hackathons.If any of the above sound familiar, welcome to the modern economy. In this hilarious, but deadly serious book, bestselling author Dan Lyons looks at how the world of work has slowly morphed from one of unions and steady career progression to a dystopia made of bean bags and unpaid internships. And that's the 'good' jobs...With the same wit that made Disrupted an international bestseller, Lyons shows how the hypocrisy of Silicon Valley has now been exported globally to a job near you. Even low-grade employees are now expected to view their jobs with a cult-like fervour, despite diminishing prospects of promotion. From the gig economy to the new digital oligarchs, Lyons deliciously roasts the new work climate, while asking what can be done to recoup some sanity and dignity for the expanding class of middle-class serfs.Trade ReviewFascinating, thought-provoking, hilarious and sometimes harrowing. * Gretchen Rubin, bestselling author of The Happiness Project *A lively and spirited takedown... Its core argument is surely irrefutable. * Guardian *Entertaining * The Economist *Lyons is very funny journalist... Much of his polemic rings true. * Financial Times *Lab Rats defies easy description. I sputtered laughing and choked crying (literally, not figuratively) as I read it. Yes, Lyons gives Silicon Valley the thrashing that it, alas, largely deserves. But in the final third of the book, he offers us an effectively illustrated way out - an approach to work and business that puts people first. * Tom Peters, bestselling author of In Search of Excellence *Entertaining... A worthwhile and disturbing read. * Sunday Business Post *Funny and frightening. * The Sunday Post *Skewering corporate jargon, management science and, worst of all, enforced fun, Lyons' waggish jeremiad lays out how the world of work has changed for the worse. * Tatler *Laugh-out-loud funny * Newsweek on DISRUPTED *Table of Contents1: Unhappy in Paradise 2: The New Oligarchs 3: A Very Brief History of Management Science (and Why You Shouldn't Trust It) 4: Who's Afraid of Silicon Valley? 5: Building the Workforce of the Future (or: Sorry, You're Old and We'd Like You to Leave) 6: Money: "Garbage at the Speed of Light" 7: Insecurity: "We're a Team, not a Family" 8: Change: "What Happens if You Live Inside a Hurricane that Never Ends?" 9: Dehumanization: "Think of Yourself as a Machine Within a Machine" 10: The Battle for the Soul of Work 11: Basecamp: Back to Basics 12: Managed by Q: "Everybody Cleans" 13: Kapor Capital: Conscious Capitalists 14: The Social Enterprise Movement Epilogue: Can Zebras Fix What Unicorns Have Broken?
£9.49
Alternative Comics Hyperthick
Book SynopsisWith Aylett's surreal satire at full blast, HYPERTHICK collects the 3-issue comic series that Alan Moore described as a new dimension of poetic genius. Follow Benny the Hen, Su Pesto, Biloxi Blake and Fox Grave as they lurch from one fulfilling fiasco to another. Wall-to-wall trickster figures face off in a lateral drench of comedic honesty. What is the Memphis Conjecture? Are owls to blame? Where do characters go when they run out of bends to go around? Lucid dream or psychedelic stoicism? Ignite your chemistry and discover the heart of the spiral narrative. In Clownsurround! Plus bonus material.
£11.39
Chicken Soup for the Soul Publishing, LLC Chicken Soup for the Soul: Too Funny!: 101
Book SynopsisYou’ll be laughing your way through these feel-good stories that will bring some sunshine into your life!Chicken Soup for the Soul has gathered some great storytellers to document the mishaps and misadventures of everyday life and celebrate humanity’s ability to laugh at itself. There’s no holding back in these pages, so prepare for lots of good, clean (and not so clean) fun. This is storytelling at its funniest! No one is safe in these true stories— from spouses to parents to children to colleagues to friends. And the funniest stories are the ones about the writers’ own mishaps and most embarrassing moments. If laughter is the best medicine, this book is your prescription. So, turn off the news and turn on the smiles with these fun-filled chapters: • That Was Embarrassing • I Can’t Believe I Did That • Mistaken Identity • These Modern Times • Not What I Meant • Domestic Disasters • Happily Ever Laughter • Laughing at Ourselves • I Kid You Not • Family Fun? Chicken Soup for the Soul books are 100% made in the USA and each book includes stories from as diverse a group of writers as possible. Chicken Soup for the Soul solicits and publishes stories from the LGBTQ community and from people of all ethnicities, nationalities, and religions.
£10.44
Running Press,U.S. Fart Dictionary
Book SynopsisThe one and only Fart Dictionary is a hilarious, illustrated collection of fart definitions for every occasion, covering a wide range of topics.Whether it''s politics, poetry, karaoke, Mardi Gras, Food Network, Jane Austen, love, war, ghosts, family, sports, fashion, Shakespeare, or vegetables, there''s a fart in this book for everyone. Examples include apple fart: a fart that keeps the doctor away, boomerang fart: a fart which has somehow returned to haunt you, and many, many more. So, readers, the next time you fart, or bear witness to one, take note of your surroundings, purpose, or social inconvenience. Label it, as in this unique volume.Featuring whimsical artwork and all wrapped up in a classy little package, Fart Dictionary is a perfect gag gift and certain to be a hit with anyone who has ever laughed at the sound of breaking wind.
£10.79
Orion Publishing Co Astrosex Aquarius
Book SynopsisThe perfect Valentine''s Day gift!AS FEATURED IN THE SUN Everything you need to know to have the best sex according to your star sign. Next time you have sex, you''ll be seeing stars... Harness the power of the zodiac to guide you to pleasure that''s out of this world. From what sex positions will have you ascending, to the turn-ons that''ll make more than just the moon rise, as well sex toys, masturbation tips and more - this little book has big astrology energy. A cheeky hardback with foil on the cover corresponding to your sign''s element (earth, water, air or fire) and illustrations throughout - this is the perfect guide for out-of-this-world fun. It''s time to let your ruling planet show you how to rule the bedroom.
£6.99
Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed The Little Book of Lost Words Collywobbles
Book SynopsisThe founder of History Hustle presents a handy guide for expressing yourself with history's best words. This collection features scores of unique words from history that deal with surprisingly modern issues like sleeping in and procrastination--proving that some things never change! The Little Book of Lost Words presents each term that's ready to be brought back into modern-day use, complete with definition, hilarious sample sentence, and cheeky historical art. You'll learn new words for the cozy room where you like to Netflix and chill (snuggery), for a dishonest politician (snollygoster), and for a young person who sleeps through the day and doesn't work (dewdropper). If you like Lost in Translation, Shakespeare Insult Generator, Drunk History, and Roald Dahl--and you delight in the way words like blatteroon and flapdoodle roll off the tongue--then you're the word lover this book was written for. Wan
£12.59
Headline Publishing Group Im Sorry I Love You A History of Professional
Book Synopsis''Clever, funny, authoritative and illuminating'' - Times Literary Supplement ''Filled with passion, humour, and a little bit of welcome weirdness. A must-read for every die-hard wrestling fan'' - Mick FoleyFor fans of books from Chris Jericho, Steve Austin, Daniel Bryan, Mick Foley and Jim Ross. ''We have all felt every emotion today. Remember today, the next time a family member or workmate tells you that wrestling is stupid. We''ve laughed, we''ve cried, we''ve screamed our lungs out. Professional wrestling is the greatest thing in the entire world.'' - Jim Smallman, 2016 Comedian and PROGRESS Wrestling founder Jim Smallman takes us on a wild ride through the history of pro-wrestling, from its beginnings at the turn of the twentieth century to the pop-culture, pay-per-view juggernaut that it is today.Join Jim as he looks at the most defining and iconic moments in wrestling''s history and attempts to nail down just why t
£12.34
Little, Brown Book Group Friends Not Food The Little Book of Vegan Wisdom
Book SynopsisChickens, Cows, Ducks, Sheep, Pigs, Rabbits, Trout, Salmon, Prawns, Lobsters - all of the animal kingdom - are not here for us to eat, we should be looking after them.Friends Not Food is a celebration of our relationship with our animal friends and is packed with vegan sayings as well as facts about both those animals and the industries that prey on them.The perfect gift for anyone who loves animals!
£6.29
Headline Publishing Group How to Fart at Work: Propel Yourself to Success
Book SynopsisFrom the toilet etiquette experts who brought you the global game-changer How to Poo at Work comes an equally essential guide: How to Fart at Work. Anyone who has ever worked in an office, or indeed any other enclosed space, has at one time or another been confronted with this gut-wrenching problem. Fortunately, Mats & Enzo have spent years studying this fragrant issue, occasionally putting themselves in highly dangerous situations armed only with a single gas mask for protection. With informative illustrations to help elucidate their findings, How to Fart at Work is a practical guide to solving every gaseous situation you might find yourself in. Whether you smelt it or you dealt it, Mats & Enzo's expert advice will allow you to not only smooth your way through any smelly moments, but they will even teach you how to further your career with flatulence! Table of ContentsChapters include: Understanding and Preparing for Flatulence. Relieve Yourself in the Office Without any Risk. Potential Problems Encountered at Work. Coping with Flatulent Colleagues. Boost Your Career by Breaking Wind. On a Business Trip. Urgent and Critical Situations.
£7.59
Fantagraphics Books Nancy Wears Hats
Book Synopsis
£19.54
Fantagraphics Pogo Vol. 6: Clean As A Weasel
Book Synopsisthe timeless classic that seems more timely than ever is back!
£36.00
HarperCollins Publishers Brilliant Brilliant Brilliant Brilliant Brilliant
Book SynopsisThis is a funny and beautiful book. What a little bastard.' RUSSELL BRANDA millennial''s answer to David Sedaris. No writer is funnier than Joel Golby.' DOLLY ALDERTONA collection of full-throated appreciations, withering assessments, and hard-won lessons by the popular journalist.There are a few things you need to know about Joel Golby. Both his parents are dead. His dad was an alcoholic. He himself has a complicated relationship with alcohol. He once went to karaoke three times in five days. He will always beat you at Monopoly, and he will always cheat.Joel makes a name for himself as a journalist who brings us distinguished articles such as A Man Shits On A Plane So Hard It Has To Turn Around And Come Back Again', but that says more about us than him. In his first book, Brilliant, Brilliant, Brilliant Brilliant Brilliant Joel writes about important stuff (death, alcohol, loss, friendship) and unimportant stuff (Saudi Arabian Camel Pageants, a watertight ranking of the Rocky films, MTrade Review ‘Joel Golby is my favourite pop-culture obsessed nihilist. If you like camel beauty pageants and robot sex as much as I do you’ll love this. You’ll laugh, cry and probably be a bit weirded out.’ SHARON HORGAN ‘Seeing the byline “Joel Golby” means you’re about to ungraciously snort with laughter in a public place. Sharper at dissecting the madness of 21st century online existence than any other writer.’ CAITLIN MORAN ‘Joel Golby is brilliant, his writing is brilliant, and his book is brilliant brilliant brilliant.’ JOE LYCETT ‘Joel is one of my favourite writers. He is brilliant and so is this massive book. If push came to shove, I would almost certainly pay the full RRP for it.’ GREG JAMES
£9.49
Headline Publishing Group Road to Rouen
Book SynopsisBen Hatch is on the road again. Commissioned to write a guidebook about France (despite not speaking any French) he sets off with visions of relaxing chateaux and refined dining. Ten thousand miles later his family''s been attacked by a donkey, had a run-in with a death-cult and, after a near drowning and a calamitous wedding experience involving a British spy, his own marriage is in jeopardy. A combination of obsessions about mosquitoes, French gravel and vegetable theme parks mean it''s a bumpy ride as Ben takes a stand against tyrannical French pool attendants, finds himself running with the bulls in Pamplona and almost starring in a snuff movie after a near fatal decision to climb into a millionaire''s Chevrolet Blazer. Funny and poignant, Road to Rouen asks important questions about life, marriage and whether it''s ever acceptable to tape baguette to your children''s legs to smuggle lunch into Disneyland Paris.Trade ReviewBen Hatch makes me laugh more and more -- John CleeseMagnifique! -- Terry WoganBen Hatch is a very funny writer. His work is fresh and heartfelt -- David JasonA French odyssey to rival the greatest adventures in history - if you like jokes, and a car full of cheese. Funny and touching * Danny Wallace *Highly recommended to anyone holidaying in France this year. Or to anyone holidaying anywhere. Or to anyone holidaying with kids. Or to anyone with kids but no holiday plans. Basically to anyone with a sense of humour * Sunday Express *Although Hatch's writing strength is in absurd comedy, there's a heart-warming spirit underpinning the book, that of the sheer joy of tackling what life throws at you as a united team and spending time together as a family. * Daily Mail *I am going to shout this very loudly. YOU MUST READ THIS BOOK. The funniest travel memoir you will read this year. Ben Hatch is a genius. The funny bits were so funny. The sad bits were so sad * Lisa Jewell *Parents will either roar with laughter or roll their eyes with recognition at this family road-trip memoir * Metro *Goes from one hilarious situation to another. Very entertaining. The author is naturally funny * The Sun *Fantastically funny and touching. I laughed and winced and will never look at baguettes in the same way again * Sophie Kinsella *I loved Ben Hatch's funny, honest, touching memoir * Jenny Colgan *A lovely, funny, scary adventure * Tim Brooke-Taylor *Haven't laughed as much in ages * Mike Gayle *A funny, poignant tale of life and surviving it * Guardian *
£10.44
John Murray Press Jeremy Hardy Speaks Volumes: words, wit, wisdom,
Book SynopsisThe best of the best from the Comedians' Comedian 2020'If you loved Jeremy Hardy, or if you know anyone who did, this is the most brilliant present because it's got every part of his voice in it' DAWN FRENCH'Well good evening, my name is Jeremy Hardy and I'm a comedian who likes to make wry witty satirical observations about the society we live in -- but I prefer to keep them to myself, thank you very much.'Edited by his wife, Katie Barlow and his long-time producer David Tyler, this comprehensive celebration of Jeremy Hardy's work is introduced by Jack Dee and Mark Steel. Further reflections on Jeremy come from Rory Bremner, Paul Bassett Davies, Jon Naismith, Francesca Martinez, Sandi Toksvig, Victoria Coren Mitchell, Andy Hamilton, Graeme Garden and Hugo Rifkind. Katie Barlow also provides a moving Afterword.Jeremy Hardy, who died in February 2019, was perhaps the most distinctive and brilliant comedian to arise from the 80s Alternative Comedy circuit. He regularly entertained the millions who heard his outrageous rants on The News Quiz, his legendary singing on I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue, or his hilarious monologues and sketches on the award-winning Jeremy Hardy Speaks to The Nation and Jeremy Hardy Feels It. Often referred to as 'the comedian's comedian', Jeremy's comedy could be both personal and political, ranging in topics from prison reform to parenting, from British identity to sex. His comedy could be biting, provocative and illuminating, but it could also be surreal, mischievous and, at times, very silly. And while Jeremy's unwavering socialism was a thread that ran throughout his comedy, his greatest skill was that, whatever their political beliefs, Jeremy always brought his audience along with him.Jeremy Hardy Speaks Volumes is a fitting celebration of this brilliant comedian. Introduced by Jack Dee and Mark Steel and containing material from his stand-up to his radio monologues and political satire to the joyfully silly gems, as well as tributes from his friends and fellow comedians, it is curated to encompass everything about Jeremy that fans adored. Edited by Katie Barlow and David Tyler, Jeremy Hardy Speaks Volumes is wise, daft, outrageous, personal and, above all, very funny: like Jeremy himself.'Ground-breakingly brilliant, off-the-register funny' JACK DEE'A one-off. Part genius, part naughty schoolboy' SANDI TOKSVIG'Unfussy, unshowy, principled, self-deprecating, hugely loved and admired by his fellow comedians and funnier than the lot of us put together' RORY BREMNERTrade ReviewIf you loved Jeremy Hardy, or if you know anyone who did, this is the most brilliant present because it's got every part of his voice in it * Dawn French *Ground-breakingly brilliant, off-the-register funny, compassionate and caring * Jack Dee *A glorious friend and a mischievous comedian - a clown and a commentator all at once * Mark Steel *Jeremy Hardy was a one-off. Part genius, part naughty school boy . . . there was no one to match him for his brilliant understanding, his satire and his straightforward ability to make us sob with laughter. How many evenings he made the radio theatre rock with delight * Sandi Toksvig *Jeremy Hardy was so special and brilliant and mischievous, a miracle of a person * Victoria Coren-Mitchell *Unfussy, unshowy, principled, self-deprecating, hugely loved and admired by his fellow comedians, and funnier than the lot of us put together. A unique comedian and a lovely man * Rory Bremner *He chose to use his comedy to change the world, rather than to fill stadia * Richard Osman *He would light fires of indignation with his blazing wit * Independent *[A] fine and fitting collection . . . poignant * Chortle *Brings together the late comedian's musings on both the personal and political * Choice *
£17.00
HarperCollins Publishers Little Constructions
Book SynopsisThe second novel from Anna Burns, critically acclaimed author of the Man Booker winning novel, Milkman'Brilliant I can't remember the last time I read prose so profound and so punchy' Daily TelegraphAn irate woman bursts into the best gun shop in the town of Tiptoe Floorboard, helps herself to a Kalashnikov rifle and sets off in a taxi on her mission of retribution. So begins this kaleidoscopic, surreal and enigmatic tale of dark deeds in a small town.At the centre of Anna Burns's startling new novel lies the Doe clan, a closely knit family of criminals and victims whose internal conflicts and convoluted relationships propel this simultaneously funny and terrifying story. Bound together by love and loyalty, fear and secrets, the Does and other inhabitants of Tiptoe Floorboard make up an unforgettable cast of characters. In a voice that is by turns chilling and wickedly funny, the narrator documents their struggle to make and maintain connections with each other, and weaving back and Trade Review‘The writing is energetic, convoluted and courageous. It has a gutsy nervousness that matches the subject matter, as if there is no way to write about violence and violation other than with comedy, digression, wordplay and other peculiarities. She gets across her disgust for senseless, needless violence of the Bush/Blair/Northern Irish or merely familial kind, while being pretty damn funny about it at the same time.’ Guardian 'A brilliant second novel…I can't remember the last time I read prose so profound and so punchy, at once scattergun and forensic. It's like the ink's been made from gunpowder. And every line leaves a darkly sparkling residue that you won't be able to wash off.' Daily Telegraph 'Anna Burns second novel is supremely gritty and clever, and draws the reader relentlessly into the story.' Telegraph ‘An often disturbing story, “Little Constructions” is about the (mis)fortunes of the Does, a marauding clan of criminals and damaged children.’ Vogue 'Another powerful second novel by Belfast-born writer, Anna Burns. Displaying the same dark bite and startling humour as her first, “Little Constructions” explodes into tangents from the opening scene of a woman storming into a small town gunshop and demanding a weapon. ' Irish Mail on Sunday 'This is probably the antithesis of the classic holiday novel which is no bad thing in itself. Bold, funny and unrelenting.' Sunday Business Post 'At the centre of Anna Burns' novel lies the Doe clan, a closely-knit family of criminals and victims whose internal conflicts and convoluted relationships propel this simultaneously funny and terrifying story. When unspeakable realities break through, the tale is chilling – and funny.' Belfast Telegraph
£999.99
HarperCollins Publishers Mark Steels In Town
Book SynopsisOn the way to a show in Skipton, in North Yorkshire, I noticed a road sign to a town called Keighley. So later, during the show, I mentioned this, asking the audience, ''Is that your rival town?'' And the room went chillingly quiet, until one woman called out with understated menace, ''Keighley is a sink of evil.''Based on his award-winning BBC Radio 4 series, Mark Steel''s In Town, is a celebration of the quirks of small-town life in a country of increasingly homogenised high streets. Steel''s bespoke observations on the small, sometimes forgotten, towns of Britain go right to the heart of British culture today, championing the very people who shape the places we live in now.As everywhere hurtles along a route towards being identical to everywhere else, it seems any expression of local interest or eccentricity is becoming a yell of defiance. Scrape away the veneer of Wetherspoons and Pizza Hut-inspired uniformity, and the march of Tesco''s towards being reclassified as a continent, anTrade ReviewReviews of Mark Steel’s In Town: ‘This programme is stand-up comedy at its very best…stand-up on radio is immensely challenging – and often unsuccessful but this programme is intelligent and rich in content, well paced and, moreover, funny…although it is clear that a lot of preparation went into making this programme, the result is fluent, natural and exciting…it was also generous to its audience and to its location – and very much in tune with the sound and appeal of the network.’ The Sony Radio Academy Awards ‘A tough gig…more like shooting fish in a barrel, to judge from the reception he received from the honest burghers of Skipton, North Yorkshire…from the moment he remarked on the fact that the hall in which he was performing was used as a cattle market during the day and was hosed out before the show – and got a roar of approving laughter – Steel must have known that he could do no wrong.’ Times (review of Skipton show) ‘Going to a place and insulting it takes guts and careful strategies…Steel made use of the fact that he is from nearby Swanley both to signal that he knows the area but also that – whatever he was about to say about Dartford – it was better than his hometown.’Guardian ‘A simple idea, kindly and wittily executed by another unfashionably humane Englishman…thank Gaia they still exist.’ Observer
£11.69
HarperCollins Publishers How Not to Be a Professional Footballer
Book SynopsisAn anecdote-driven narrative of the classic footballer''s DOs and DO NOTs' from the ever-popular Arsenal legend and football pundit Paul Merson, aka The Merse'.When it comes to advice on the pitfalls of life as a professional footballer, Paul Merson can pretty much write the manual. In fact, that''s exactly what he''s done in this hilarious new book which manages to be simultaneously poignant and gloriously funny.Merson was a prodigiously talented footballer in the 80s and 90s, gracing the upper echelons of the game and the tabloid front pages with his breathtakingly skills and larger-than-life off-field persona.His much-publicised battles with gambling, drug and alcohol addiction are behind him now, and football fans continue to be drawn to his sharp footballing brain and playful antics on SkySports cult results show Soccer Saturday.The book delights and entertains with a treasure chest of terrific anecdotes from a man who has never lost his love of football and his inimitable joie Trade ReviewWhen Saturday Comes“Most football memoirs carefully ration the racy bits as a way of punctuating the otherwise retelling of a career. How Not To Be A Professional Footballer does precisely the opposite.” Zoo“The best read to fall asleep by the pool with.”
£10.44
HarperCollins Publishers Scotlands Jesus
Book SynopsisReading Scotland''s Jesus should be like being called into the living room by your child shouting that they see a little red dot on the head of a TV newscaster, then riding the white hot bullet through the propaganda circuitry of his or her exploding brain.It''s a funny book about the news, partly because it was decided that a pornographic book about Scottish Independence wouldn''t really sell. In chapters ranging from International Politics to the Animal World, Scotland''s Jesus' is allowed the opportunity to showcase his increasingly unsympathetic worldview and disintegrating psyche.A torrent of jokes about recent events provide the framework for a broader philosophical despair. Frankie Boyle uses the stories of the popular press as a springboard to explain the nature of reality and the details of our enslavement to mirthless corporate Warlocks.
£9.49
HarperCollins Publishers Tupperware Cup Quick Shaker 500ml 1 by Tupperware
Book SynopsisThis is Limmy's second book.It's a whole load of new, odd and hilariously grim short stories.Tom is in a soft play with his daughters. He's bored. He's so bored he can move things with his mind.A man fills up a mate's biscuit tin without ever telling him, to see what happens.Maggie's boyfriend Iain bought a curtain. It keeps attacking them. She wants it out the house.A man is sitting in his wheelie bin at two in the morning, and he wants to tell you why.Kenny's mate Scott is suicidal and ridden with guilt. Kenny takes him on holiday to Benidorm. It'll be some laugh.Praise for Daft Wee Stories:The comedy book of the year.' Time OutFunny, peculiar and original.' GuardianDidn''t realise pieces of paper with no pictures on could be so funny. I mean I was cryin' all day yesterday into this book. Hilarious' Someone on AmazonTrade Review‘Short stories shot through with anxiety, guilt, depression, delusion and jet black humour’ Daily Telegraph Praise for the author: "Daft Wee Stories will sate Limmy's existing fans and proves once again that his wickedly anarchic sensibility moves effortlessly between media." Chortle "Disturbing yet very, very funny, it's a shocking, scathing delight." Sun "So good they'll make you snot yourself laughing." Scotland on Sunday "
£9.49
HarperCollins Publishers English A Story of Marmite Queuing and Weather
Book SynopsisWhat makes the English English? Is it their eccentricity, their passionate love (or, indeed, hatred) of Marmite or is it something less easily defined?Beginning at the top of a muddy Gloucestershire slope at the Coopers Hill cheese-rolling contest and traversing a landscape of lawns and queues, coastlines and sporting arenas, Ben Fogle takes us on a journey through the peculiarly English: a country of wax jackets, cricket, boat races and jellied eels, by way of national treasures such as the shipping forecast, fish and chips and the Wellington boot. Not to mention the Dunkirk spirit of relentless optimism in the face of adversity, be it the heroic failure of Captain Scott's doomed Antarctic expedition, or simply the perennial hope for better weather.The archetypal Englishman lover of labradors and Land Rovers yet holder of two passports Ben applauds all things quintessentially English while also paying tribute to the history, culture and ideas adopted with such gusto that they have Trade Review‘A pleasant and lyrical read’ Guardian ‘Written with wit and affection, this light-hearted, yetstirring narrative entertains and inspires with equal measure’ Countryside Magazine Praise for Ben Fogle: ‘Funny, entertaining and really rather inspiring, too’ Daily Mail 'A great escapade told with refreshing frankness' Independent on Sunday ‘Passionate and well-researched’ Tatler ‘Fogle's typical adventure-style storytelling keeps the narrative light and entertaining’ Independent
£9.49
HarperCollins Publishers Challenge Accepted 253 Steps to Becoming an
Book SynopsisPrepare to laugh' Reese Witherspoon253 steps to becoming an anti-it girl.Funny woman, Instagram star and international comedy sensation, Celeste Barber's Challenge Accepted! is a raucous, hilarious and outspoken guide to life, unwanted gas and how to rock a sexy scar.Part-memoir, part-comedy routine, part-advice manual, Challenge Accepted! is Celeste at her best, revealing her secrets to love, friendship, family and marriage (oh hai, #hothusband), and how to deal with life's many challenges why she checks the bath for sharks, how Nutella quite literally shaped who she is as a woman, and why being famous on Instagram is like being rich in Monopoly. It's real, like totally, really real.Trade Review‘Prepare to laugh when reading this memoir. Just when Celeste has you in stitches, she hits you right in the heart.’ –Reese Witherspoon
£9.49
HarperCollins Publishers Its a Conspiracy The Worlds Wildest Conspiracy
Book Synopsis Did NASA fake the moon landings? Did aliens build the pyramids? Is Finland really there?Dive down the conspiracy-theory rabbit hole with bestselling author and conspiracy buff Tom Cutler. Mingle with the millions who do not trust the official version and find out what THEY the global elites don't want you to know.This compelling collection of the world's wildest conspiracy theories is packed with startling stories, curious characters and freakish facts covering everything from Princess Diana to weather control, from the cloning of Paul McCartney to 9/11, from Lizard Men to JFK.It's a Conspiracy! will make you think again about everything you thought you knew.
£10.44
HarperCollins Publishers A Gamer Logs into a Bar
Book SynopsisGaming just got a whole lot funnier.What was the console gamer''s New Year's resolution?1280x720.Why did Frogger cross the road?Because after an hour and a half you've finally completed the level.Why would a grown-up want to play Pokémon Go?Wynaut?This is a joke book for anyone who knows that AAA isn't just a battery type, you don't need scissors to do some crafting and that you don't have to go outdoors to try camping.*Parental guidance: Occasional fruity language and jokes of a sexual nature*
£7.59
HarperCollins Publishers You Know Youre a Golfer When
Book SynopsisGolf is not just for the links it's for life.How do you know when you're a golfer? For starters, you might just find golf has infiltrated every aspect of your life, from your choice of car (plenty of boot space) to the way you talk. You may find yourself mowing your lawn to fairway height, or discussing how your shaft feels extremely loudly in public. You probably think sub-par means something must be really, really good, and you're pretty sure the Dutch Masters is a golf tournament. If you had to list your favourite numbers, they're most likely 2, 3, 4, 18 and 72, and you spend 80% of dead-time practising your swing with an imaginary club and ball and yet you always look to see where it went.But how do you really know when you're a golfer? Perhaps you need to buy this book to find out.
£8.54
HarperCollins Publishers The First Time You Smiled Or Was It Just Wind A
Book SynopsisA baby record journal for parents with a sense of humour.Parenthood is filled with heart-warming milestone moments that you'll want to hold onto forever. But in the years to come, the memories that make you laugh will more likely be the time your child cut their own hair or when you wrapped their butt in a tea towel on an emergency trip to the supermarket because you forgot to buy nappies (just me?).The First Time You Smiled offers a cool, inclusive, non-pastel-hued place for you to record the things you don't want to forget. It's proof that you were nailing this parenting lark, even when it felt like you were dropping all the balls, telling a story that has both you and your child in the starring roles. Because whatever your story looks like, it starts right here with you and that is spectacular.
£10.44
HarperCollins Publishers Planes Trains and Toilet Doors
Book Synopsis'F *** ing brilliant. I would describe it as like a bag of political nuts moreish and fabulously salty' JOE LYCETT A TIMES BOOK OF THE YEARForget Westminster bust-ups and PMQs, some of the key events that have shaped modern British politics happened not in the cloisters of parliament or Downing Street's many corridors of power, but in car parks, village halls and seaside resorts where the mundane have played host to the mighty. From Pitt the Younger's Putney Heath duel to finding Margaret Thatcher a voice coach on a train, Harold Wilson's Scilly' season holidays to John Major's dental appointment clearing his path to No10 these (and many more) are the places where chance meetings, untimely deaths and snap, sometimes daft, decisions changed the course of politics.Matt Chorley has spent almost two decades covering Westminster, interviewing prime ministers, mocking ministers and chronicling the serious, and sometimes unintentionally absurd, events which act as unlikely turning points inTrade Review A TIMES BOOK OF THE YEAR ‘F *** ing brilliant. I would describe it as like a bag of political nuts – moreish and fabulously salty’ JOE LYCETT ‘Matt Chorley never fails to look at politics from a different perspective and to make it fun. This book is a rollicking ride through the turning points of the last two hundred years, including many we will never forget and others that some of us wish we could’ WILLIAM HAGUE Revealing, touching and very funny, Matt Chorley’s delightful romp through the rooms where it happened (and the restaurants, museums and beach huts too) is packed full of insight, detail and momentous political stories’ ED BALLS ‘Matt Chorley has the ability to burst the bubble of politicians’ pomposity and show them in all their hilarious ridiculousness. Always acutely observed and completely on point – and loads of belly laughs’ LORRAINE KELLY
£21.25
HarperCollins Publishers 100 Words for Rain
Book SynopsisHave you ever saved up for a rainy day, had your head in the clouds or generally felt under the weather? The British obsession with weather and the words we use to describe it have come to define us. We talk about it endlessly ? five whole months of our lives to be precise. We use it to start conversations with complete strangers. It affects our moods, shopping habits and even how we vote. This book is packed with information you?ll want to share about this most important subject ? quirky history, surprising facts, folklore, strange words and even stranger people.
£9.49