'Susie Dent is a one-off. She breathes life and fun into words and language' Pam Ayres 'Susie Dent is a national treasure' Richard Osman Welcome to a year of wonder with Susie Dent, lexicographer, logophile, and longtime queen of Countdown's Dictionary Corner. From the real Jack the Lad to the theatrically literal story behind stealing someone's thunder, from tartle (forgetting someone's name at the very moment you need it) to snaccident (the unintentional eating of an entire packet of biscuits), WORD PERFECT is a brilliant linguistic almanac full of unforgettable stories, fascinating facts, and surprising etymologies tied to every day of the year. You'll never be lost for words again.

Celebrate spring and summer as a time of renewal with Flora the Roman Goddess of flowers and learn about balance in Litha. As the nights get longer, create beautiful garlands of herbs to ward off evil spirits. Explore the magic of each month, with mystical tips and practical projects, and delve into the annual cycle of a modern mystical year. With supersitions and sayings, crystals, birds and beasts, this is a book for the modern mystic that is accessible for everyone. Based on spirituality in nature, The Mystical Year reveals how to wind down, and celebrate the seasons with folklore, festivals and simple, creative projects for each month of the year.

Take a brighter look at life on the other side of 40You may never now become a rock star or regain the waist size you had at 18. You have taken a sudden interest in bleeding your radiators and figuring out the best route by road to anywhere in the country. On the bright side, you can feel smug that you have better grammar than a college student and don't have to dig out your embarrassing passport photo to get into bars or buy alcohol.

This beautiful boxed set brings together five of the all-time favorite Little Golden Books! "The Poky Little Puppy," "Tootle," "The Saggy Baggy Elephant," "Tawny Scrawny Lion," and "Scuffy the Tugboat." This classic collection in it's own slipcase is perfect for gift-giving--and is great value, too!

With more than 200 small – but smart – crosswords, this book provides an excellent series of bite-sized challenges. The Guardian's many crosswords are enjoyed by hundreds of thousands of people every day. With a wide variety of clues from a vast range of subjects, these crosswords will provide a stern but gratifying examination of your vocabulary. This is the second in a brand-new series of Guardian puzzle books.

Sir Elton Hercules John has enjoyed a phenomenal career filled with success, excess and achievement. His farewell tour was announced as more than 300 dates across all corners of the glode for years. Illness, Covid-19 and other extenuating circumstances conspired to prolong it, but the Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour concerts have sold out everywhere as fans take their opportunity to see this unique artist for possibly the last time live on stage. The Little Guide to Elton John celebrates the career, music and character of one of the most interesting, colourful, engaging and interesting popular musicians ever. The book reviews his career and countless highs, and recognizes his many record-breaking achievements, in music, in his charity work and farther afield.

Cornwall is steeped in poetry, legend and storytelling. Join Luke Thompson on a literary tour around its dramatic coastline, its cliffs and coves, across the moor and down the mines. Meet Cornish poets such as Jack Clemo and Charles Causley, enjoy retellings of thrilling legends and stirring songs and read inspiring fiction and non-fiction from famous Cornish writers and residents including Daphne du Maurier, Thomas Hardy, Winston Graham and D. H. Lawrence. What each and every one has in common is a deep-rooted connection to a county defined by its awe-inspiring and varied landscape, its folklore and its fiercely independent people. Treasures of Cornwall: A Literary Anthology is edited by Luke Thompson.

An introduction to everything you need to enhance your life using nature's pharmacy.

This tiny guide will teach you everything you need to know about herbalism, the therapeutic use of plants as medicine for holistic healing, also known as Phytotherapy. The Little Book of Herbalism and Natural Healing demonstrates how herbs can be used to strengthen the body's functions and enable it to heal itself, often without resorting to antibiotics. Whether you want to learn how to use herbs for common everyday ailments or how to grow your own herbs and use them in cooking, this trusty tome is the perfect companion.

Herbal Immunity
In Nature's Pharmacy there are herbs that act as protectors and immune boosters.

Elderberry
This rich, dark purple berry has been used for hundreds of years in Europe. It has proven health-supporting properties. Full of flavonoids – an important group of plant substances – due to elderberry's anti-viral action, this flu-fighter is good to take during the winter season as a preventative.

Dogs Who Changed the World is a beautifully illustrated, heart-warming book that celebrates all dogs and proves that every single one of them is absolute magic. Dogs have trotted at our collective side for tens of thousands of years, bound up in the story of humanity. They have inspired great works of art, caught spies, reconnected lost lovers, dragged the drowning to safety... or have just haplessly and happily ruined everything. These 50 tales acknowledge our unbreakable relationship with the dog, the first-ever domesticated animal, and their dedication, heroism and unending sense of fun. Along the way we'll meet big-boned Barry, the hefty St Bernard credited with saving the lives of more than 40 lost souls in the Swiss Alps in the 1800s. We'll discover Sigmund Freud's calm-inducing chow chow, Jofi, who would sit in on his psychotherapy sessions (and never spilled a secret), and feel the frustration of Sir Isaac Newton, whose little terror Diamond apparently knocked over a candle and destroyed the physicist's most important manuscripts.

The future is ours - let's enjoy it! This hilarious fully illustrated book will help ease you into this strange and perplexing new stage of your life. After all those years of routine you're suddenly free! You're bound to be a bit nervous - it is your first time. No more being bossed about - well, apart from by your other half, of course. No more getting up at the crack of dawn to go to work - though at your age you may have to get up at the crack of dawn anyway to use the loo. No more wage slavery - er, no more wages... But it's going to be fine, because you can now do what you want to do - within reason, naturally. Within these pages you'll discover: - What your new job as "retiree" involves, the hours (all of them) and the pay (let's face it, if anyone advertised a job with this salary, no one would take it) - Conversations you will no longer have to have - Things you no longer have to feel guilty about - Pursuits for bored retirees - Truths that will slowly dawn on you - Ways to supplement your pension ...and all the other perks (and niggles) that come with your new position (and no, we don't mean "horizontal on the sofa").

The duel between fish and man and their unspoken bond... Approximately 71% of Earth is covered by water, and since time immemorial, man has been using a rod and line to fish in rivers, lakes and the ocean. Perhaps it is the mystery of what might happen on each fishing trip that captivates so many and, whether successful or not, ensures they return again and again to test their skills and try to outwit the fish. But there is tremendous respect from those who sit on riverbanks, lakesides or on the ocean. Catching the fish is the actual sport, but it is the challenge and skill that keeps anglers coming back for more. There are also numerous benefits for mind and body, outlined by some of the greatest thinkers in history, not to mention the peace, tranquillity and connection with nature that are arguably as important as the act of catching a fish itself. The Little Book of Fishing will, for the first time, bring quotes, thoughts and theories on this captivating pastime together in an unforgettable collection of witticisms and observations. SAMPLE QUOTE: 'Many men go fishing all of their lives without knowing that it is not fish they are after' - Henry David Thoreau. SAMPLE TEXT - FACTS AND TRIVIA: * Anglers spend more than $1 billion a year on bait alone. * The five basic methods of angling are bait fishing, fly-fishing, bait casting, spinning, and trolling.

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.

A beautiful collection of the most heartwarming, inspirational and hilarious quotes from Call the Midwife, accompanied by beautiful photographs throughout. 'Love is never the only answer. But it is always the best, the simplest, the one most likely to withstand the test of time. Love is the beginning. It should be the final word.' Narration by Jennifer, Series 8, Episode 4 Call the Midwife is loved across the world for its moving and intimate insights into the colourful world of midwifery and family life in the East End of London in the 1950s and 60s. The residents of Poplar and of Nonnatus House have brought comfort and joy to millions of people through their words and shared experiences. In this book you will find a collection of the best, most heart-warming and inspiring narrations and life-affirming quotes, taken from the original scripts by Heidi Thomas, alongside beautiful photographs from the show. There are lessons on love, friendship, motherhood, faith, family, home and much more - and we will hear from, among others, the voices of glamorous but vulnerable Trixie, forthright Nurse Crane, the delightfully witty Sisters Evangelina and Monica Joan and of course the wise and iconic narrations of Jennifer. The perfect book to see you through both hard and better times, this lovely collection will inspire and entertain in equal measure.

"This gorgeously-illustrated book makes the link between getting out in the garden, and the enrichment that can come as a result." - PlantBased mag "Clea sows a series of meditation techniques about tending the earth wholeheartedly, and shows you how to embrace gardening as a spiritually-enriching hobby to help reconnect you to nature." - Soul & Spirit mag "It promises to lift your soil and your soul! We love." - Woman's Own *BOOK OF THE WEEK* "Clea Danaan is on a gentle mission to help more people fall in love with the Earth." - NFU Countryside "We adore her beautiful little book, Mindful Thoughts for Gardeners, which will inspire you to reconnect with nature, help you live consciously through your planting, and accept unavoidable gardening pitfalls!" - Green Parent Mindful Thoughts for Gardeners reminds us how this spiritually enriching activity lovingly reconnects us to nature every day. Rooting each blossoming thought in deep ecology and conscious living, we unearth the power inherent in mindfully lifting the soil; it lifts our souls as well. This beautifully illustrated little book sows a series of 25 meditations about tending the Earth wholeheartedly, including: * Seeds, soil and roots * Small gardens * Plants and wildlife * Recycling in the garden * Community gardening * Permaculture * Seasons Author Clea Danaan explores the interconnectedness of nature in this carefully crafted small volume that any green-fingeredgrower will want to dig into. If you like this, you might also be interested in Seedbombs, Love Bees, Mindful Thoughts for Walkers and Nature Tonic.

Many people know that Sherlock Holmes was an enigmatic detective who, with his companion Dr. Watson, pursued criminals through Victorian and Edwardian England. What, perhaps, they don't know is that he investigated 60 fully documented cases, including 37 murders; that 46 of those cases began in his offices at 221B Baker Street; that only three of them involved his nemesis Moriarty; and that in his later years Holmes spent his time beekeeping on the Sussex Downs. Biographic Sherlock presents an investigative guide to his life and work, with an array of clues and observations converted into infographics to reveal the detective behind the detection.

The essential guide to fashion's favourite print. Since Christian Dior first brought leopard print to the catwalk in 1947, it has earned a cult following. Popularised by everyone from 1940s screen sirens to pop goddesses and Instagram stars, the print has undergone numerous incarnations in the fashion world and has earned a reputation for being daring, bold and rebellious. This unique and fun illustrated gift book celebrates all things leopard, from fashion to food and everything in between. Full of gorgeous yet fierce, colourful illustrations throughout, I Love Leopard includes everything you could ever want to know about this iconic pattern, all in a covetable, leopard-print package! CONTENTS: Introduction: a brief history of leopard print * Leopard Fashion: from punk to the catwalk and everything in between * Leopard Eats: leopard print cakes, cookies & breads * Leopard Philosophy: quotes, tips & inspiration * Leopard Fun: fun facts about leopards/leopard print

The Heart's Journey is the tale of a heart that encounters pain and suffering only to be healed by the power and security of love. Artist Judy Pelikan's lovingly rendered illustrations depict the human heart's strength and capacity for love so persuasively that no words are needed. This miniature book - back in print by popular demand - is the perfect gift for anyone who needs to remember that the heart always emerges triumphant.

We live in busy, stressful times and finding happiness in our modern world can be a challenge. From the demands of a hectic working life to the relentless cycle of 24/7 news or the constant beep of our smartphones, there are all many things that can trigger negative emotions. The Little Book of Happiness offers guidance for when the scales of life are tipped and feeling positive feels beyond our reach. Packed full of wise words from some of the world's best-known figures – from ancient philosophers and celebrated writers to modern-day figures – this book will help you to shift your thinking, boost your mood and find your inner joy. 'Doing what you like is freedom. Liking what you do is happiness.' - Frank Tyger 'To be content means that you realize you contain what you seek.' - Alan Cohen

Dads are expected to be a master of all trades and a Jack of none! If they're not putting up shelves, or balancing family life with a hectic job, fathers everywhere are supposed to be the fountain of all knowledge; whether it's how to deal with spiders, or what all the capital cities of Europe are. This handy, pocket-sized book is the perfect gift for any dad, packed with practical and fun information of things your dad will need (and want) to know. You'll see your dad reaching for this book again and again to answer quiz questions, make sure he's looking after the kids ok, and finding out how to mend various household objects. It's the one-stop, go-to handbook for fathers of all ages. This beautiful hardback edition has both dust-cover and gold embossing on the spine making it the perfect gift. Every Pocket Bible is lovingly crafted to give you a unique mix of useful references, handy tips and fascinating trivia that will enlighten and entertain you at every page. There is a Pocket Bible for everyone... Other titles in the series: The DIY Pocket Bible, The Mum's Pocket Bible, The Allotment Pocket Bible, The London Pocket Bible and The Railway Pocket Bible.

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!

Taking a quirky and insightful look at the world of numbers, As Easy As Pi will delight and entertain any number enthusiast. In this day and age it's hard to imagine a world without numbers. Our lives are centred around commerce and money, and it is the only language that's the same the world over. However, did you know that for a long period of time people could not get their heads around the idea of zero, a figure representing nothing, and that it was even regarded as heretical in some circles? As Easy As Pi is an entertaining and accessible guide, written for those who love numbers - and those who don't - and uncovers a great deal of lore and intriguing information. Including: - Snippets of fascinating numerical facts - Myths and mysticism in the world of numbers - Numbers in language and used as slang - Pop culture trivia - Useful mathematical rules to remember

A memory-packed hardback gift book full of nostalgia, recounting not only memories from the decade of birth, but also memories from the decade of the formative teenage years. The perfect, meaningful gift for someone 'born in the 40s'. The 1940s and 50s were two incredible decades, from rationing to rock and roll. Born In The 40s will bring back many memories and literally put a smile on everyone's face! Over two years of research has gone into creating this incredible gift. Covering two decades (1940s and 1950s), the book has beautifully illustrated and colourful double-page spreads, including the foods eaten, the hairstyles experimented with, and the clothes worn, possibly with regret! With a luxury soft touch cover and space for a handwritten personal message in the front, it's a real celebration of the world that shaped the recipient. Born In The 40s will evoke wonderful feelings and memories as time spent in the school playground, radio listened to, TV shows loved, games played, music from the period, movies watched, cars travelled in and the cutting-edge technology of the day are all recalled, accompanied by photos from two decades. Six titles are available: Born In The 40s, Born In The 50s, Born In The 60s, Born In The 70s, Born In The 80s and Born In The 90s. Made with paper & love, from you to me. Why we love it This is the most amazing gift you could give someone Born In The 40s, no matter what the occasion. The soft touch cover enhances the luxury feel of the gift, which is packed with information that takes the recipient on a wonderful journey down memory lane. Everyone is guaranteed to say, 'I remember that!'.

In Cosmic Cards, sought-after tarot teacher and astrologer Maisy Bristol shows us how to read and interpret the star signs and tarot in one combined practice to give us a fresh outlook on life. For years, we have looked solely to the zodiac for guidance. Astrology has long told us that Taurus is a comfort-loving homebody who loves routine, while Gemini is the extroverted social butterfly who craves variety. However, as the universe expands and we become even more multifaceted, surely this blinkered outlook is no longer reflective of the times we live in? By reading astrology through the lens of the tarot, we can uncover how to broaden our minds, smash stereotypes and discover the different facets of each sign's personality to reveal a deeper insight into us, our family, friends and lovers. Accompanied by a beautifully illustrated 78-strong deck, Cosmic Cards is a modern mystical toolkit that enhances our understanding of ourselves and others through the wisdom of astrology and tarot.