Search results for ""Arkbound""

Arising from a National Writing Competition in 2022-3 on the theme of 'Endurance', this collection of works by serving prisoners relates both to the deepest of human tragedies and the greatest of triumphs. Contributors describe what endurance means for them; not just of the prison system, whose efficacy this collection brings into question, but of the lives that led them there. Victor Frankl, the psychologist and Jewish WWII concentration camp survivor, is referenced independently by two contributors. In his words: "He, who has a why to live for, can bear with almost any how."The 'why's' in this collection are sometimes obscure, sometimes inspiring, and always heart-rending. Sometimes, it is Nature's touch or vision that helps the authors endure. Often, it is meaningful relationships with others. Readers can extend such meaningful connection further, by receiving these touching passages with a spirit of compassion and a desire to understand.

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Throughout history, stories have been told of a 'spirit creature', a many-headed snake, that appears out of nowhere, devouring animals and people. To the nomadic people of the Sahara, it was the 'Sand Devil', in Native American stories 'Llao, the spirit of the below world. The Aboriginal people of Australia had their own name for it, as did the tribes of the South African svelte who left sacrifices of goats and oxen to placate it. When a rotund lady mayoress is whisked from the stage at a village fete into a hole in the sky, it is photographed for the first time and sets off a chain of events that will rock the world.

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Rainbow Punch is a lockdown legacy like no other. An anthology of mixed-genre writings from nineteen women, with each piece paired with an evocative illustration from one of six talented female artists. Drawing rainbows became a global phenomenon throughout the pandemic, and this sign of hope unites each piece within this anthology. Rainbow Punch showcases a comprehensive collection of perspectives spanning twelve different countries, from the experiences of motherhood across a spectrum of ages to the lives of dedicated, front-line healthcare workers, bereaved friends and lockdown-induced fantastical imaginings. This book is a spectacular tribute to our tenacity in difficult times and documents a landmark moment in shared global culture.

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A Collection of Wildflowers is an eccentric amalgamation of poems, thoughts, questions and simple words written during the authors expeditions around the world. From Welsh mountains, Parisian cafés, temples in Thailand and train journeys in Canada, these words offer the reader a sanctuary to escape the constantly shifting world and to connect with nature, their own mind and the people around them. This collection of poetry invites the reader to join the author in her journey to acknowledge every experience, however mundane, every emotion, however raw, and the undeniable beauty that exists both within us and within nature.

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Across ten captivating and beautifully illustrated chapters, Morgan Phillips recounts stories of adaptation from the air-conditioned pavements of Doha and the feral camels of Australia, to the ‘cool rooms’ of Paris and the ‘fog catchers’ of Morocco. These are the lesser-told stories of good, bad, ugly and very ugly adaptation to climate change – they will be the inspirations for the positive adaptations of the future; and the forewarnings of the mal-adaptations that must be avoided. Great Adaptations is a call to action, it presses home the need for adaptations that are ecologically restorative and socially just. It examines how adaptation is framed, unpicks the contested notion of Deep Adaptation, explores the potential of Transformative Adaptation, and questions the legitimacy of the ‘reassuring stories’ that still dominate mainstream climate discourse. It is conversational, provocative, engaging and visually arresting – a tactile, pocket-sized and very shareable object.

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Professor Magneto and His Amazing Mechanical Man is a collection of short stories that will leave you in the outer realms of possibility. Whilst one story focuses on a bizarre circus act featuring a `mechanical man', another reveals a mysterious object floating above a remote Hebridean beach. The collection moves through various different settings, including a sinister `white room' where nothing is as it seems, and a lost planet on which a battle has begun. These short sci-fi parables come together to create a voyage through distant worlds, each distinct, but with one thing in common: a twist in the tale.

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This book is a composition of powerful, poignant and perceptive poems that depict life on the autism spectrum. Written by a young person with High Functioning Autism, the poems reflect on her school and college years, capturing sadness at being marginalised as well as appreciation for the people who supported her. The poems provide important insights on the difficulties that people on the autism spectrum face, including deep anxiety and developing social relationships. Although 1 in 100 people have this condition, as it affects everyone differently, it is often misunderstood and ignored. Lauren's book adds to the calls for perception of autism to be widened, encouraging a positive and informed attitude towards those with this complex condition. Author Bio: Lauren lives in North Somerset and has a diagnosis of High Functioning Autism. She recently completed a degree in Special Education and founded an autism company supporting young people on the spectrum, their parents, and professionals. In her spare time, I enjoy baking, travelling, and going hiking. As a young person with autism, Lauren has faced misunderstandings and adversity, particularly during mainstream education. Writing poetry was a strategy she used to channel her anxieties and frustrations as well as to communicate her gratitude towards those who supported her. Writing helped to build Lauren's confidence and resilience and enabled her to find her voice.

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The experience of custody is one most of us only usually hear about from outside. All the intricacies of navigating prison life – suicide watch, fights, punishments, abuses of power by officials, and relationships – are rarely shown. This book sets out to reveal these facets of prison life in a depth and diversity never covered before. Right from the opening passages (when the author is arrested at Heathrow Airport) readers will discover aspects of the justice system that simultaneously shock and enthral. Against the backdrop of severe budget cuts, rising violence and suicides, the door is thrown open to reveal the consequences of hastily enforced policies – with legal challenges brought before the High Court. Throughout it all, a lens is cast on all aspects of the UK justice system.

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Invisible Schemes is a biting satire that shines a light on the marginalised working class and how reality, time, and all other certainties are blurred beyond recognition to those who aren’t paying attention.

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Hayden's realm is a voyage into space and time like no other, crammed with twists that will keep you questioning what will happen next. It is a journey of a man (Max Hayden) who finds himself trapped in an alternative realm - like another dimension, where everything he knows is not quite as it was. Max is able to pilot a newly developed anti-gravity ship, but this technology attracts the attention of an advanced alien intelligence. Thus begins an adventure that catapults Max on a quest to return home, but before he gets there he faces the impending colonisation of planet Earth by a seemingly far more sinister entity.

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Where is the world really heading, and what can we do about it? This book takes an unflinching look at climate change, drawing upon the latest data to analyse what the next decades hold in store. With atmospheric CO2 at unprecedented levels and insufficient action being taken to prevent a rise in temperatures above 2 degrees centigrade, we are not just looking at significant disruption but the possibility of societal collapse. For the first time ever, the magnitude of this challenge is faced head on, with avenues to truly address it presented. Case studies and models from over 18 authors around the world show ways that we can build adaptation and resilience, as well as what ‘zero emissions’ really mean. The book also provides a platform for those from a range of diverse backgrounds, whose unique experience and knowledge brings vital new perspectives. From those already feeling the impacts of climate change in the Global South to community leaders fighting to create real alternatives, we get a chance to understand the nuances and possibilities of the task ahead.

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A memoir by a man who tells his story with brutal honesty, this book delves into the darker side of Bristol - a side that few even know about. Paul Scrase ran brothels, had a hand in drugs, and spent time in prison. But he is also shown as a loving family man, someone who managed to successfully run legitimate companies and help train construction workers in the Middle East. No, this is not a book of glamour and airy prose, but a rollicking account of things most readers will find shocking - providing an insight into Bristol like never before. Yet what could amount to a rogue's tale of misdeeds is also an intensely human journey, imparting lessons to us all. "Bristol - a city renown for its creativity, `green' ethos, and vibrant cultural scene. But behind the acclaim and awards is a world of crime, prostitution, grinding poverty and violence. Paul Scrase's book reveals this world like no other."

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Featuring the work of twenty one talented artists from across the UK, this collection of rap, songs and poems explores current themes and addresses questions raised from day to day life. Free from bad language and attitude, this is one of those books that can leave you in tears or laughter as the passionate words reach across the page. It is a book born of struggle and perseverance, from authors who know the highs and lows of street life. From slavery to heritage; from dreams to family, `Lyrically Justified' has been heralded as the UK's `Streetwise Bible'.

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We all desire to live in a healthier, happier, and safer world. However, what humanity faces now are the rackets of competition, confusion and conflict. The ecological scars of climate change are a clarion call for us to change course urgently, or forever face the consequences. Ndaba Sibanda, from Zimbabwe, catches this in vivid ways. The Eastern and Southern African regions are no stranger to climate change -manifesting in droughts, depletion of biodiversity, pest infestations, increased transmission of malaria, and population displacement. Sibanda, through his rich and riveting poetry, brings to life a staggering reality which beckons humanity to be candid, reflective and regenerative. The book brings to life the diversity of Africa and the challenges it faces in an unforgettable way.

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A REALLY NICE TEA AND SOME MAGIC MUSIC are two short stories for children aged 6 to 11 years, which will capture the imaginations of young readers. The first story depicts the appearance of some Far East tea growers, who come bearing exotic brands of tea. The second is a dream-like story of a magical piano that can transport its player to new places across the world. Relatively short in length, these self-contained short stories are perfect for reading to children for bed times, with colourful illustrations that add depth to the narrative.

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The Shadow of My Ancestral Tree speaks of many young women's experiences, particularly the children of immigrant parents. It is a collection of poetry about life, which explores themes such as trauma, grief, heartbreak, politics, family, hope, feminism and race. Offering both an introspective and outward-looking perspective on these themes, this collection goes beyond the personal musings of the individual and highlights social issues affecting the collective. These poems encourage change, turning stories of sorrow into stories of hope. The Shadow of My Ancestral Tree is a collection created to bring comfort and companionship to the voiceless whilst paying homage to those who broke their backs planting trees so the next generation could feel their shade.

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Cupid's a Psycho is a contemporary love story set in Glasgow. It deals with the intense relationships of three teenagers and a cruel, unthinking act that tests the limits of love and forgiveness against a background of disadvantage and alienation in central Scotland. At school, Blithe coasts along. Quiet and defensive, her home life is shaped by precarious poverty and the ill health it creates. When Robbie expresses an interest in Blithe, she initially reciprocates but soon after dumps him via a recorded video chat. She is persuaded to share the humiliating footage which is then widely shared at school. Robbie's best friend Jamie is determined to defend and support him but struggles to manage the fall out. From this, the plot unravels and the trio navigate the heartache and pains of young love and teenage relationships, but from the unique lens of poverty in modern Scotland.

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A collection of poetry written over the course of nine years, following the poet's journey through adversity and adventure. From dreams to darkness, from God to courage, these poems will show you that life can be shaped by the depths of your imagination. This is a book for all those who fall, but rise up stronger, a book which will help the reader see the light even in the deepest abyss. Mason's use of poetry as a means of salvation is an inspiration for all of us. The poems follow lose threads of hope, loss, redemption, discovery and courage. They are woven together by a belief in the power of writing, a continuing faith that humanity can still do immense good as well as harm.

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Published in Italian in 1996 and now translated in English for the first time, The Easy Life is a long poetry in prose. It collects the impressions of a lifetime, which span from Merini’s experience in psychiatric hospitals to her proverbial joie de vivre, from the ECTs to the loneliness of her house in Milan.

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‘Magic is not what happens, But what you do. It’s not what makes you rich, But what makes you poor.’ In this collection of poetry, readers can dive into feelings and thoughts about mental health, love, childhood and the natural world. The poet weaves her words with an innate sense of destiny, even when pushing through obstacles of self-doubt and exclusion. From the diamond beauty she sees in sparkling ice, to the darkest moments of being alone, we can find solace and wisdom. As the last stanza of the final poem says:- ‘Let’s reach out and live, Let’s share, love and give, Let’s find our lost selves in strangers…’

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A children's book with illustrations.

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Roofless is the new non-fiction book by Stewart Harvey, and is a series of real-life accounts and interviews given by people who have faced the brutal realities of homelessness at some point in their lives. Compiled by the charity First Stop Darlington, the true identities of the protagonists are kept secret, but their stories always make for difficult and bleak reading. Documenting both the successes and failures of people who attempt to make a life for themselves while battling homelessness, Roofless is a disturbing reality check for people who may often turn a blind eye to this ever-increasing issue. "...Harrowing and calling out for change, Roofless serves as a reminder that anyone can be homeless, especially in times of economic uncertainty and welfare cut-backs..."

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Paint Yourself is a poetry collection whose very purpose is steeped in the exploration of preconceived perceptions, and whether they can be reconfigured, refreshed, renewed, viewing the world - sunsets specifically - in a new way. The poems track this journey into sunsets, a journey of ideas and perception, through three main stages: loosening, breaking, binding; the process of gaining new perspectives. Combined with the poetry is a range of innovative graphical elements, drawings by the author himself, acting as visual backdrops to the powerful words, words spurred by the loss of a close friend.

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A book of poems that explores the fundamental questions resonating within each of us about human nature. Jenny Symons, in her powerful and genuine voice, asks us to `spare a thought', pause our hectic routines for a moment and reflect on the quintessential aspects of our reality. Hers is an enthralling call for love, altruism, respect and admiration for nature, integrity and self-assertion. Emerging from the darkness of her mental illness, Symons resurrects to new life thanks to the energy of her poetry, through which we ourselves are given the chance to re-examine our truest nature. `...Following Jenny Symons' journey through hospitalisation due to schizophrenia, the collection navigates the difficult waters of the poet's on-going battle with mental illness...'

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My Dream is a gripping novel that follows the struggles of one woman through adversity to be able to achieve her dream. This novel confronts real, dark issues and experiences; following a childhood of abandonment and hard work, this is a tale of perseverance and drive that takes her from the wards of a London hospital to the heart of the Middle East. Esther finds herself prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice to be free of her pain. This is a story of love and faith; of despair and betrayal. It is a powerful example of a woman who nearly lost her dream, but who found it in the end.

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Prickelus is a clumsy hoglet, who has a habit of getting into all kinds of trouble. When he is hungry, he puts his rumbling tummy first, ignoring all his mothers warnings about how to avoid danger. Hoggleberry, his sister, is always looking out for him and coming to his rescue. Join them on their scariest adventure yet as they find themselves lost and Prickelus gets caught, putting them both in danger. They must rely on the kindness of humans to save them. Who will come to their aid? Hedgehogs have been our friendly garden guests for centuries. These delightful little animals are in decline and desperately need our help. Discover more about hedgehogs, rescue centres and how you can help these wonderful prickly creatures. Have fun colouring in the beautiful illustrations, see if you can solve the puzzles, enjoy making autumn crafts and trying the tasty recipes. Create and play your own hoglets game. Discover how to relax a hedgehog while learning ways to deal with stress and relax you. All this inside one fantastic book!

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Tangled Yet Coiled is a collection of 22 poems exploring the climate emergency, the unifying potential of nature, and experiences of wilderness that vault the ego, that captivate and sustain. There is a strong thread of dissonance and uncertainty in these pages, as Tom interrogates where mental health intersects with these issues. But ultimately, it is written with the hope of turning powerlessness into small acts of courage and championing the natural beauty found in humans and all living things.

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The underbelly of London's Soho has not seen much change in the last century. The disadvantaged face the brunt of society's corruption, and this is becoming more common in the current climate of increasing fascism. Rostant's frank exploration into the lives of those at the heart of bohemian Soho sheds much needed light onto the most pressing issues in society today and the desperate need for change. The honest depiction of the lives of street beggars and bag ladies highlights the side of London that readers don't often see and the protagonist, a Big Issue vendor who suffers delusions and commits suicide, is at the heart of the novel. A novella that examines and contests commonly accepted narratives of exclusion, gender, sexuality and mental health. This is a transgressive piece of work that challenges cultural and religious hypocrisy, encouraging readers to reflect on their own views and perceptions, in particular surrounding poverty and homelessness, and to consider the ways in whic

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Experience the journey of a young heroine through a wilderness of murder and myth...Young rebel warrior Amiel begins a deadly mission into uncharted forest lands. Her town is under threat by a mysterious warlord known only as Decius, who lurks among the trees. Soon he plans to march forth with his army, leaving only death and destruction. To save her homeland, Amiel must find and destroy Decius-even if it means sacrificing her life in the process. But, as she journeys further from civilisation, Amiel's reality begins to shift. Myths of strange saints and powerful warriors that use forgotten techniques slowly become reality. In the dirt and shadows of the forest, familiar figures are twisted, with even holy men harbouring a rage in their hearts. Will Amiel's mission be victorious? Can she triumph over the evil Decius and save her homeland? She has to believe it will be so...

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Timone is a curious young boy who lives in Arcadia and is guided by mysterious spirits. His intrigue for the world that exists outside of his home leads him to discover the impact of man upon Earth. This illustrated book introduces young readers to the environmental issues our world faces today. Allow yourself to get lost in Arcadia, play with the animals and bathe in the magic found here.

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Beggar Bee Nameless follows Deceased Affairs officer Shane Ellis’s investigation to uncover the name of a recently deceased beggar. The reader will be immersed in the life of the ‘Nameless’ and his unlikely companionship with fellow vagabond, the fierce and enigmatic Gracie. Product of an abusive childhood, she is convinced that a homeless life is the only life worth living and has found the means to survive through her principles known as the Beggar’s Code. Shane’s investigation allows her to overcome her own loss in a tale of grief, love and redemption and, ultimately, poses fundamental questions for us all about what it means to have a home. Beggar Bee Nameless is an enlightening humanisation of homeless life. It provides a unique understanding from the perspective of characters that, for one reason or another, have found themselves un-homed. Readers will discover a simultaneously heart-warming and heart-breaking account of homelessness and will be provoked to explore a different perspective and reconsider the place of homeless people within society. Philosophising and abrasive, this novel is transparent and provides a refreshingly honest insight into one of society's greatest failings.

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In this inspirational volume of spoken word, social commentary, play, essay and memoir, Ros Martin peels apart the onion layers of our deeply fragmented society. By presenting the author’s personal journey, the book throws a harrowing spotlight on issues behind racial inequality. It achieves what so many other titles neglect or fail to do: rendering visible the lives of the otherwise unnoticed or stereotyped black woman, man and lowly other. Pushing out from the margins, the author writes with a passion to engage readers in issues that continue to impact those in ethnically diverse communities and other marginalised backgrounds. Every passage rings with the call for social justice and equal empowerment, whilst celebrating lives of struggle in creativity, resistance and survival.

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School student Ellie is kind-hearted and intelligent but impulsive. She’s anxious about the future of the planet, so when power-hungry oil tycoon, Muelo, makes a bid to become mayor of her city, she feels compelled to stop him. Facing off against the charismatic, dynamic and relentlessly ruthless Muelo, Ellie finds herself in a confrontation that tests the limits of her courage. Sapiens, an enchantress of the mind, takes Ellie and her friends on humankind’s journey to our present climate catastrophe. Meanwhile, there’s a murder to be solved. A thrilling novel of hope and activism, inspiring the young and the not-so-young to take action to protect our future.

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Close your eyes and look into the light. What do you see? Now click with your tongue, then face a wall and click again. What do you hear? This is how Ambarenyll perceives the world after becoming blind in a Darmé rebel attack. Thirteen years later, he finally finds the courage to pick up his stethoscope once more. But just as he starts to practice medicine again, old wounds resurface when the fragile treaty between the Mané and Darmé factions in the Elven Kingdom of Landaïla splinters apart. When the young doctor finds himself having to treat Princess Jade, sole daughter of the Mané King, he is confronted with emotional turmoil that he thought had been long buried. As their attraction grows amidst the backdrop of looming civil war, a dark family secret threatens to throw everything into even deeper chaos.

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Perestroika is a historical fiction novel that provides thrilling insights into the late Communist era. The book opens in 1978 and introduces citizens of Slavia like artist Ludwig Kirchner, struggling to survive in concentration camps, whilst the terrifying elites of the regime live in luxury and moral depravity. It all changes in 1989, with Perestroika. In the revolutionary turmoil, former crime boss Ivan Fiorov leads the newly formed ‘Freedom Party’, heralding a wave of insecurity that resembles the previous dictatorship. Revenge, redemption and catharsis collide head on with recent European history. With Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, alongside a resurgence of populist leaders and neo-Nazi movements across the world, Perestroika is as much a lens into the present as an exciting epitome for the past.

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This book is a gripping tale about a mysterious asylum located out of sight of any passers-by next to a dark forest. For Zahid Zaman, a newly-graduated nursing assistant, there are too many questions to ignore - but even his fellow staff at St Mark's Psychiatric Hospital seem keen to keep the answers hidden. Why are patients taken here from all over the country, instead of being treated locally? What makes them so terrifying? As he soon finds out, the key to this isolated asylum may lie in the supernatural and occult forces that possess it. Do you dare to enter an asylum? An environment where you are never sure what is really going on?

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This book is an autobiographical account of the author‟s route into crime, from an unknown university student to an infamous bank robber wanted on both sides of the pond. It isn‟t long before he swaps lecture halls for the ruthless walls of the American prison system. This book shows how the path of crime is not always easy to predict – and that the voices of those locked away will one day be heard. Surrounded by the dismal walls of his prison cell, the author retreats into his memories, where the past slowly unravels and the path to his future predicament is made clear. “Just Sky” is a story of discovery and dreams, of loss and struggle. It is a gripping tale which lays bare the harrowing details of the time spent by the author in American prisons.

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A beautifully illustrated children's book about two twins' adventures around Bristol on a day out with their father. This touching story shows the wonders Bristol has to offer little ones and the kindness of people. Both illustrated and written by Victoria Clothier the clear narrative follows the twin's day out shown through simple yet poetic text and unique illustrations. This charming book is suitable for ages three to six and especially those who live in or visit Bristol and create special family memories here, just like Ben and Amy do in the story.

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This book relates a gripping modern day 'Bonnie and Clyde' story. It is a tale showing how a couple chose the path of crime - but in this case, it was to address global inequality and poverty. For John and Sarah, the means really do justify the end. They have chosen to steal from the richest in an attempt to end the suffering of the poorest. But as the day of their casino heist draws nearer, so do the police investigators bent on stopping them. What is more, with a shadowy organisation lurking close behind, John and Sarah realise that the stakes are much bigger than they thought. Good Intentions is both exciting and entertaining in its pursuit of some of the greatest problems that face our time.

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The voices of Moria Refugee Camp are unified in their grief. Homes, hope, and dignity are lost in amongst squalid living conditions and the omnipresent void where the illusion of salvation once lived. Based on true stories, The Five Stages of Moria, resurrects the largest refugee camp in Europe and allows readers to bear witness to the monolithic trauma held within. In this blend of autobiography and fiction, readers not only meet five distinct characters who must grapple with the five stages of grief, but also the reality of a camp, and a world, in which they would otherwise be forgotten.

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