If you want to know your Socrates from your Sartre and your Confucius from your Kant, strap in for this whirlwind tour of the highlights of philosophy. Philosophy is a quest for wisdom and knowledge; philosophia in Ancient Greek literally means “love of wisdom”. The aim of philosophy is to ask and explore life’s big questions to help us work out what we can know and how we can live a good life. Today, in a world of fake news, embarking on a quest for truth couldn’t be more important. This pocket-sized introduction to important philosophers and key philosophical ideas includes accessible primers on: The early Greek philosophers and the “big three”: Socrates, Plato and Aristotle Key schools of philosophy from around the world – from ancient philosophy right up to the present day – and their impact on modern life Insights into the main questions philosophers have explored over the years: Who am I? What is the meaning of life? Do I have free will? Practical applications for the theories of Descartes, Kant, Wollstonecraft, Marx, Nietzsche and many more. This illuminating little book will introduce you to the key thinkers, themes and theories you need to know to understand how human ideas have sculpted the world we live in and the way we think today. A perfect gift for anyone taking their first steps into the world of philosophy, as well as for those who want to brush up their knowledge.

A flower is not a flower alone; A thousand thoughts invest it' All over the world, flowers are an integral part of human culture whether it is the perfect table centre for a wedding, a beautiful bouquet for a birthday, a message of thanks, or to pay one's respect at a funeral. But, while everyone knows that red roses signify love, few may realise that an entire language of flowers exists with every bloom, folliage and plant having a particular emotion attached, be it hazel for reconcilliation, wisteria for welcome or ivy for fidelity. This unique language was created by the romantic early Victorians who carefully planned every bouquet and posy so as to deliver a desired message. Bringing the language to a new generation, this beautifully illustrated miscellany contains fifty profiled flowers, a dictionary searchable by emotion, and ideas for creating bouquets and arrangements for specific occasions. This gift book is a novel present that any flower lover will want to own.

'All I can do is be me, whoever that is.' The many ides of Bob Dylan are revealed in this collection of the artist's words and lyrics. Having celebrated his 80th birthday in May 2021, with plaudits given around the globe, this influential and enigmatic troubadour-poet has been a-changing with the times since the 1960s, when he was the 'voice of a generation'. Nobel and Pulitzer prize-winner, musician, artist, author and actor, the living legend's words have inspired, enthralled, provoked and puzzled generations of fans, literary buffs, musicians and songwriters - and have been mulled over by academics and artists alike. This collection of quotes - humorous, grave, desperate, passionate, fearless, surreal - includes a rich tapestry of confessions, admonitions, laments, prophecies and existential meanderings. Interspersed with fascinating facts, The Little Guide to Bob Dylan sheds light on the deep inner workings of this taciturn man and his music. SAMPLE FACT: Many of Dylan's songs were hits for other artists, including the No.1s 'Mr Tambourine Man' for the Byrds, 'All Along the Watchtower' for Jimi Hendrix and 'Blowin' in the Wind' for Peter Paul & Mary.

A renowned scholar of the English language, Tolkien is today celebrated as the father of the high fantasy genre. Drawing on his knowledge of languages, mythology and legend, he created an entire alternative reality, Middle Earth, and populated it with hobbits, orcs, ents, dragons, magicians and giant spiders. Packed with fascinating facts about Tolkien's life and labours, this delightful volume includes extracts from his works, letters and interviews, as well as from his contemporaries and admirers. It's a celebration of the writer whose imagination and creative genius changed the course of fantasy literature. 'I would rather spend one lifetime with you, than face all the ages of this world alone.' The Fellowship of the Ring (1954) 'I am in fact a Hobbit (in all but size). I like gardens, trees and unmechanized farmlands; I smoke a pipe, and like good plain food (unrefrigerated), but detest French cooking...' Tolkien in a letter to Deborah Webster, 25 October 1958 In July 1915, Tolkien took part in the Somme offensive, the bloodiest battle of the Great War. While recovering in hospital from trench fever, he wrote his first Elvish word list, as well as the first fragments of what would become The Silmarillion. The inspiration for The Hobbit came to Tolkien unexpectedly in the summer of 1930, while he was working his way through a huge stack of student essays. On a blank page he found himself scrawling, 'In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit.'

London is one of the most visited cities in the world, attracting around 30 million visitors every year. But why is it that the UK's capital city has such pulling power? From its foundation in Roman times over 2,000 years ago, we take a look at the things that have shaped this magnificent city and made it the fascinating destination that it is today. 'You find no man, at all intellectual, who is willing to leave London. No, Sir, when a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford' Samuel Johnson 'In London, everyone is different, and that means anyone can fit in' Paddington Bear

New York City is one of the most visited cities in the world, attracting about 65 million visitors every year. On first impression, it is loud, busy, and expensive, with New Yorkers fighting against the crowds to get to the other side of 42nd Street and yellow taxicabs speeding down Broadway. Many residents are squeezed into tenement buildings and skyscrapers where rents are sky-high and apartments are small, but still - there's something special about America's beloved Big Apple. Packed with trivia, historical facts and more, The Little Book of New York tells you all you need to know about the city that never sleeps. From its iconic landmarks to the world-class museums and theaters that put NYC on the world map, this manual is a must for those who love the Big Apple, for those who are yet to visit, and for those desperate to return. 'London is satisfied, Paris is resigned, but New York is always hopeful. Always it believes that something good is about to come off, and it must hurry to meet it.' Dorothy Parker In nineteenth-century New York, enough oysters were consumed to use their shells to pave Pearl Street in Manhattan and to use as lime for the Trinity Church masonry.

A charming celebration of all things snow. Is it true that no two snowflakes are ever alike? How many Christmases have actually been white? Do the Inuit have dozens of words for snow? Can it ever be too cold to snow? Our memories and imagination are buried in snow. It's the weather of play, joyful abandon and mischievous games - of snowball fights, skiing holidays and rattling down a hillside at full speed. It's the weather of childhood - the world transformed into a temporary playground. Even as adults, the urge to throw a snowball is too hard to resist, those impish, childish instincts overtaking our adult workaday selves. Packed with fascinating insights, outdoor fun, cultural lore and traditional wisdom, The Little Book of Snow delves into the history, science, literary and cultural heritage that surrounds snow, frost and ice - the perfect book for anyone who loves that feeling when you open the curtains in the morning and find the world has turned to white... 'Super-cute... Packed full of snowy snippets' Sunday Express

First published in 1925, this facsimile edition contains hundreds of entertaining tips for golfers of all ages and abilities. 'Don't over-indulge yourself in eating and drinking during the non-golfing days, and then expect to work off excess by "a good game of Golf." You may play Golf of sorts, but it will not be a good game.' This pocket-sized facsimile edition contains hundreds of tips for golfers of all abilities. The advice, ranging from technique and fashion to etiquette on the course and in the Club House, provides an entertaining snapshot of life in 1920s Britain. Don'ts for Husbands and Don'ts for Wives were republished by A&C Black in 2007 and have sold over 2.5 million copies and been translated into 15 languages. Don'ts for Golfers was republished in 2008 and has sold more than 180,000 copies to date. Handy tips include: 'Don't over-indulge yourself in eating and drinking during the non-golfing days, and then expect to work off excess by "a good game of Golf." You may play Golf of sorts, but it will not be a good game.' 'Don't make Golf your sole topic of conversation. There are a few otherwise quite intelligent persons who are non-golfers. You will never make converts if you bore non-players to distraction by for ever talking of the Royal and Ancient Game.' 'Don't blame your clubs for faults of your own that may be easily corrected if you analyze your methods of using the implements.' 'Don't keep up a running fire of conversation during the round. Golf is a game in which thought is necessary and silence is preferable to chatter.' 'Don't irritate your opponent by wearing jazzy colours. To dazzle his eyes with a multi-coloured pull-over or peace-disturbing golf stockings is to take a mean advantage.'

Nobody knows who first curdled milk, then separated the curds and whey to make cheese - but this ancient foodstuff has been around for thousands of years. Today, there are a dizzying number of cheeses - and ways to eat them - and each has its own distinct flavour, texture and traditions. The Little Book About Cheese delves into all aspects of this fabulous food. Find out how cheese is made and learn where the earliest cheeses came from. Explore an A-Z of enticing cheeses from around the world and discover handy tips for enjoying different types. Packed full of entertaining facts, amusing quotes and plenty of wise curds, this is the ideal gift for any turophile, fromager or cheesemaker - or simply for someone who likes their cheese.

'Optimism, mojo, complete bollocks. That's what the country is crying out for.' There is now only one certainty in life. When things can't possibly get worse, they absolutely will. And so, after three years of Maybot malfunctioning and Brexit bungling, welcome to BoJo the clown's national circus - where fun for none of the family is guaranteed. Fear not, however: Decline and Fail is your personal survival guide to the ongoing political apocalypse. This unremittingly entertaining collection of John Crace's lifegiving political sketches will get you through the darkest of days - or failing that, will at least help you see the funny side. Miss it at your peril...

Who doesn't love baby animals? AMAZING FACTS ABOUT BABY ANIMALS is an adorable celebration of all kinds of fuzzy, fluffy, scaly, and feathery animal babies and their parents. Full of interesting, weird, and funny facts about animals before they are born (elephants are pregnant for 22 months!), when they are born (whales are born tail-first so they don't drown!), and life as babies (parrots give their offspring names! Baby macaques have snowball fights!), this book couldn't be cuter.

'You see, but you do not observe. The distinction is clear.' Such were the words of the master detective Sherlock Holmes to Dr Watson, as he noted how his friend failed to implement Holmes's techniques. In How to think like Sherlock you will learn how to increase your powers of observation, memory, deduction and reasoning using the tricks and techniques of the world's most famous detective, Sherlock Holmes. The book incorporates the latest techniques and theories across a range of topics: NLP, memory mapping, body language, information shifting and speed reading - this is a supremely practical book that will make you look at the world in a new light, and more importantly, impress those around you. Packed full of case studies, quotes and trivia from Arthur Conan Doyle's original novels and short stories, How to think like Sherlock also includes a series of fun tasks and games for you to complete that will ensure that when you reach the end of the book you will be thinking like Sherlock Holmes, the master of the science of deduction. You will never look at a shirt cuff, trouser hem or scuff of dirt on a shoe in the same way again! Other books in the series include: How to Think Like Stephen Hawking, How to Think Like Churchill and How to Think Like Steve Jobs

The ultimate pick-me-up to save you from the nine-to-five heartbreak blues. The Little Guide to Dolly Parton is your bible of devastating Dolly-isms. Yes, that's right, the most iconic and acclaimed female country singer in the history of music is so inventive and brilliant with her clever wisecracks and sage advice that popular culture has crowned her with an -ism after her name. No one else is as worthy. For more than five decades, Dolly has been laying down her own brand of whip-smart wit and wisdom to the world, with many quotes and quips becoming as famous as her lyrical genius, for which she has won too many song writing awards and honours to mention. Stacked to the rafters with more than 150 bite-size bon-mots, one-liners and ripostes - as well profound and sincere observations - The Little Guide to Dolly Parton is your new favourite life companion. 'I never think of myself as a star because, as somebody once said, "A star is nothing but a big ball of gas" - and I don't want to be that.' Reflecting on stardom during an interview with Billboard, 2014. 'I'm proud of my hillbilly, white trash background. To me that keeps you humble; that keeps you good. And it doesn't matter how hard you try to outrun it - if that's who you are, that's who you are. It'll show up once in a while.' Discussing her background, during an interview with Southern Living, 2014.

The perfect gift for anyone desiring a richer whisky experience. Some drinking buddies only ever talk about themselves. Well, not this guy. The Little Book of Whisky is here to listen, entertain and help you imbibe as many whisky-soaked titbits of wit and wisdom as possible. Whisky, aqua vitae, the water of life, the spirit of the Gods, the hard stuff - whatever you call it, has long been many people's best friend. But now your best friend has a new best friend - The Little Book of Whisky, a tiny tome guaranteed to raise your spirits with its fine blend of whisky facts & stats, quotes & quips, and matured with whisky history and heritage. The Little Book of Whisky is a guaranteed 100 proof... of excellence. 'I'm on a whisky diet. I've lost three days already.' Tommy Cooper. 'A good gulp of hot whiskey at bedtime - it's not very scientific, but it helps.' Alexander Fleming on how to kill a common cold. If this doesn't make you want to visit Scotland nothing will. The nation is home to more than 20 million casks of maturing whisky. That's four barrels for every Scottish person. No wonder they want their independence.

60 tantalising tequila and mezcal cocktails Tequila and mezcal are tipped to be the hot spirits of the year, and Tequila Made Me Do It offers everything you need to create 60 tantalising cocktails right at home. Following the best-selling Prosecco Made Me Do It and Gin Made Me Do It, this enchantingly illustrated book will introduce you to the incredible world of agave-based cocktails, and showcase the true potential of spicy tequila and smoky mezcal. From the classic margarita and its hibiscus, Cadillac, and tamarind brethren, to a wide range of smoky, citrusy, and delectable cocktails, such as the Oaxacan Dead and Levitation, the recipes in this book are fun to create - and even more fun to drink! These 60 delicious cocktail recipes are illustrated with bright and beautiful original artwork by Ruby Taylor, in a book that makes a lovely gift for your friends - or yourself!

Does your boss, officemate, or family member have an important question or assignment, and you're unsure what your answer should be? Take the guesswork out of the equation with The Office Answer Wheel, a humorous gag gift with a sarcastic office twist.

The kit includes a mini spinning "prize wheel" that snaps together, makes a satisfying "tic tic" sound, and helps determine your asker's fate. Just give the wheel a gentle spin to get your answer!

Sample answers include:

• Count Me In!
• Yes, And I Love Your Hair
• I'll Have It In by 5:00
• I'll Do Overtime for This
• Ask Me Next Week
• I Demand Coffee
• All Signs Point to No
• This Desk Is Out of Service
• And more!

This handy trivia book is packed with everything you need to know about running, including potted history, quirky facts, sayings and hints about the planet's most popular exercise form.

It includes running philosophy and advice on how to get more out of your daily run. From science to humour, tips to tales, it runs the reader through everything they need to know about pounding the pavement.

This pocket-sized guide to running is the perfect gift for runners of all ages and experience levels.

In 2011, Belgian runner Stefaan Engels set the record for the most consecutive marathons run - 365. He was 49 years of age.

A study at the University of Oxford concluded that the post-run buzz people get after running is sparked by cannabinoids - the same substance that's found in marijuana.

Since Chevy Chase first uttered the phrase 'Live from New York, it's Saturday night,' Saturday Night Live has grown from the vision of Canadian comedian Lorne Michaels to be a cultural institution. And while the early days of cocaine-fuelled all-night writing sessions have given way to the world's biggest names treading the boards in Studio 8H, SNL remains must-see TV and the ultimate goal of any aspiring young comedian. Everyone has a favourite cast member, a favourite sketch and a favourite quote. After 46 years on air, how could you not? SAMPLE QUOTE: 'In a brilliant move during closing arguments, Simpson attorney Johnnie Cochran put on the knit cap prosecutors say O.J. wore the night he committed the murders. Although O.J. may have hurt his case when he suddenly blurted out "Hey, hey, easy with that, that's my lucky stabbing hat!"' - As seen on quotes.net. Saturday Night Live (1975) - Norm MacDonald SAMPLE FACT: SNL hasn't just launched successful comedy careers: Oscar award-winning composer Howard Shore was the show's first musical director. Shore was a childhood friend of Lorne Michaels and went on to score The Lord of the RIngs films, among others.

All the drinking games you'll need for the perfect night out... or in! Drinking is great, right? But not on your own. That's sad. Thankfully, The Little Book of Drinking Games is here to help you - and your friends - find an excuse to get drunk and let your hair down. Jam-packed with more than 50 drinking games of all shapes and sizes, this pocket compendium will have you thinking, drinking and pint-sinking in no time. The Little Book of Drinking Games contains the best classic drinking games (that you're usually too drunk to remember the rules to), games inspired by your favourite movies and TV shows as well as a few games that are destined to become new traditions. Ice-Cube Raft Race: Just like the legendary pub relay, Boat Race, but on a much smaller scale. Essential Supplies: An ice-cube tray, shots of your favourite spirit and plenty of straws. Borrow an ice-cube tray from the bar/your kitchen, and fill the compartments with a spirit or strong beer. If it's a tray with two rows of sections, all the better as one player can take the left side, racing another player who takes the right. The idea is to drink each compartment dry through a straw, before moving on to the next one, and then the next, until all of the compartments have been emptied. Whoever finishes first wins and condemns the loser to a forfeit of their choice.

The essential guide to a Hollywood icon. Audrey Hepburn was one of the most admired and emulated women of the twentieth century, an Oscar-winning actress, a model and humanitarian. Described by Vogue as 'the acme of classic beauty', named the 'most beautiful woman of the 20th century' and 'the most stylish Brit of all time' Hepburn's influence as a style icon continues long after death. But Hepburn also had huge sadness in her life: two failed marriages, a broken engagement, and the crushing disappointment that occupied her triumph in My Fair Lady. Chronicling Hepburn's life, from her nearly dying in Hitler's occupied Europe, to her conquering, in just one year, the New York stage and the Hollywood screen, this fascinating tribute illustrates and illuminates all things Audrey Hepburn. While trapped in the Netherlands at the end of WW2, Audrey and her family received critical food and medical relief from UNICEF - an act of charity she never forgot, as later in life, Hepburn devoted much of her time to UNICEF, becoming a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. From her early years as an ingenue to her status as an icon of elegance, in her Oscar-winning performance for Roman Holiday and the career high of Breakfast at Tiffany's, Hepburn's star quality resonates across the globe - even so long after her death. Few stars before or since are as beloved as Audrey Hepburn and The Little Book of Audrey Hepburn details why. 'My appearance is accessible to everyone. With hair tied in a bun, big sunglasses and black dress, every woman can look like me.' Audrey Hepburn 'For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness; and for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone.' Audrey Hepburn 'Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, it's at the end of your arm. As you get older, remember you have another hand: The first is to help yourself, the second is to help others.' Audrey Hepburn

New York Times Bestselling Property! For twenty-five years, Magic Eye has fascinated children and adults alike worldwide with its amazing 3D images. New York Times best-selling Magic Eye 3D optical illusions are back with all-new images. Through Magic Eye's patented 3D technology, viewers can find a full-color image on each page, with a smaller black-and-white image of the "hidden" scene in the back of the book to help solve each optical illusion.

Despite the famously uncooperative Irish weather, John Hinde's postcards of Ireland featured bright sunshine and blue skies, a country seemingly peopled entirely with redheads, happy donkeys carrying turf, and charming cottages that appeared to grow upward from the earth itself. Cars and sweaters were in primary colours, and scarlet rhododendrons sprang up in the unlikeliest of places. John Hinde had a clear vision: 'We need to be uplifted rather than depressed. To me pictures should always convey a positive, good feeling, something which makes people happy, which makes them smile, which makes them appreciate some tenderness.' In these postcards, the world is a sunnier, less complicated and more colourful place. Join Paul Kelly as he returns to John Hinde's Ireland on a photographic pilgrimage, capturing some places that have changed forever, and some that are just the same.

Nothing tastes sweeter than success It's time to celebrate how amazing you are. This is your victory lap and standing ovation all rolled into one. Full of the kinds of quotes and mottos that put fire in your belly and a smile on your face, this powerful little book is here to sing your praises and spur you on.

A Sherlock Holmes Escape Book: The Adventure of the Analytical Engine is a unique form of puzzle book, in which the reader must solve the riddles to escape the pages. The third title in this ingenious series of Sherlock Holmes Escape Books, The Adventure of the Analytical Engine is an exhilarating combination of escape room, puzzle book and adventure story. Inspired by the urban craze for escape rooms, where players tackle puzzles while trapped in a locked room, it is an escape room in the form of a locked book, filled with codes, ciphers, riddles and red herrings, and a clever Code Wheel set into the cover. In this new adventure, readers will take on the role of the world's foremost consulting detective, Sherlock Holmes, snared at the centre of a cunning plot, after receiving a mysterious letter from beyond the grave. Intrigued by an invitation from mathematician Charles Babbage to view his newly completed pioneering contraption, Holmes becomes imprisoned in a magnificent London villa, where tricks, traps and illusions aim to divert him from uncovering the true purpose of the reimagined Analytical Engine. Combines riddles, logic puzzles, timed challenges, mathematical brain-teasers, maps and mazes.