The Personals reveals how classified ads are not just a few commercial lines of text in print or online - they can be a treasure trove of fascinating human stories; stories of love, loss, loneliness, redemption and hope. Some people do Sudoku, others watch Netflix. Brian O'Connell loves the classified ads. In an era of spin doctors and press releases, celebrities and social influencers, the classified ads can open a door into the lives of ordinary people with extraordinary stories. What draws Brian to the classified ads are the intriguing human stories he finds there, the unexpected twists and turns, the personalities, the curious objects and the range of human experience waiting to be discovered. The Personals is a diverse collection of compelling stories about the people and the lives behind the small ads.

A laugh-out-loud, tongue-in-cheek guidebook filled with hilarious and helpful advice—from how to dodge family members’ unwanted questions about babies to successfully creating a fake partner during wedding season—for anyone trying to survive and thrive in the midst of singledom. Perfect for fans of Hey Ladies! and Single State of Mind. So, you’re single. Whether existing sans partner is a new state of being or you’ve been on this solo journey for a while, the fact of the matter is this: being single is actually awesome. You can do whatever you want, travel wherever you want, and be your truest, most free self. But there are a lot of people out there—your mom, your married best friend, the wedding industry, society—who see things differently. To them, singledom is something to avoid at all cost, no matter how many times you tell them you love your life the way it is. The limit does not exist when it comes to telling Aunt Carol you still don’t want to be set up with her neighbor’s ex-stepson. Now, Melissa Croce gives you the tips, tricks, and sage advice you need to graciously endure all of the cringe-worthy scenarios your single self may dread, from awkward small talk with an ex to navigating well-meaning but insensitive relatives. And it helps you truly flourish in your singledom, offering activities like quizzes aimed at helping you find a new hobby and tarot spreads for that cozy Saturday night in. Part real-world guide, part commiseration, and part celebration, Single and Forced to Mingle will steer you through the ups and downs of being single, reminding you just how good it feels to be free.

Ronnie Barker has long been known as one of Britain's greatest comedy performers. But he was also responsible for writing much of the material he performed, often hiding the fact from the public by using a number of pen names. Showcasing the complete work of a true comic icon, All I Ever Wrote is a laugh-out-loud collection of sketches, monologues, songs, poems and scripts from every strand of Ronnie's long and brilliant career. With gems like 'Fork Handle's,' Three Classes' and 'Pismonouncers Unanimous', Ronnie's clever writing, double entendres and spoonerisms will bring a smile to your face, as you rediscover some of the twentieth century's finest comedy moments.

Tim Cotton has been a police officer for more than twenty years. The writer in him has always been drawn to the stories of the people he's met along the way. Sure, he's dealt with his share of ne'er-do-wells-as a homicide lieutenant, he's convicted eighteen murderers-but more often he writes about the regular folks he encounters, people who need his help or just want to share a joke. The Detective in the Dooryard is comprised of stories about the people, places, and things of Maine. There are sad stories, big events, and even the mundane, all told from the perspective of a seasoned police officer and in the wry voice of a lifelong Mainer. Many of the stories will leave you chuckling, some will invariably bring tears to your eyes, but all will leave you with a profound sense of hope and positivity.

Scottish artist Tom Paterson is one of the most inventive and influential cartoonists British comics have produced. Inspired by the work of George Martin, Leo Baxendale and Ken Reid, Tom became a comic artist at a young age, working for Fleetway and DC Thomsons on such classic strips as Sweeny Toddler, Calamity James, Buster, Grimly Feendish, The Numskulls, Bananaman and Dennis the Menace. At the beginning of his career Tom was ghosting artists like Baxendale, but his own style and sense of humour quickly developed and Tom's work soon became unmistakable. His trademark stinky, striped sock often appeared in the panels of his work - a useful identifier born out of an age where publishers frowned upon artists signing their work. Along with the sock came the additional, visual comedic gags scattered throughout the strips, giving each one that instant re-readability. This collection features some of Tom's outstanding colour and black & white strip work for IPC/Fleetway from titles like Buster, Whoopee!, Jackpot, Whizzer & Chips and Oink! amongst others. With quotes from the man himself and some extra, added treasures, this is a must have for fans of British humour comics both young and old!

Viral Instagram sensation @Common_Wild offers a witty, empathic, and beautifully illustrated look at the roller coaster ride that is modern motherhood. Being a mom is hard—anywhere in the world. From early mornings and sleepless nights to temper tantrums and meddling in-laws, it’s a daily feat of strength that can reduce even the most confident woman to a bundle of nerves. Luckily, today’s moms have @Common_Wild, the popular Instagram account run by Australian artist Paula Kuka, who channels that heady stew of anxiety and love in a series of warm, funny cartoons that are eagerly shared by women around the world. Kuka features moments instantly recognizable to any parent, like cooking an elaborate meal only to have it swept to the floor by a picky toddler, or dragging strollers home from the playground in the rain. She also winks at the societal expectations that ask women to do it all, including “taking care of themselves,” with a smile. But most importantly, she highlights the huge love that underpins the journey of parenthood, and the sometimes-surprising things you learn about yourself while watching your children grow up.

In Britain's Best Political Cartoons 2022 the nation's finest satirists turn their eyes and their pens to the biggest, funniest and most poignant news stories of the year so far. Bringing much needed humour to a tumultuous year in politics, this companion features the work of Peter Brookes, Steve Bell, Morten Morland, Nicola Jennings, Christian Adams, Dave Brown, Brian Adcock and many more, alongside captions from Britain's leading cartoon expert. The result is a razor-sharp, witty and essential companion to another year like no other. __________________________________________________________________ 'A wonderful book . . . A beautiful thing to look at . . . Our brilliant cartoonists show there is still something to satirise . . . A great stocking filler.' Giles Coren 'A blockbuster collection of the year's funniest political cartoons . . . [compiled by] Britain's leading authority on political cartoons . . . It made us chuckle.' Eamonn Holmes

"Unparalleled in British medical history James Owen Drife charted his reactions to the medical world in which he worked and published them, initially in World Medicine and then the British Medical Journal (BMJ). This book is sometimes painfully frank, at other times disturbing or very funny but always entertaining. It provides an important insight on the life and times of a doctor working in the NHS."

Bury My Heart at Chuck E. Cheese's is a powerful and compelling collection of Tiffany Midge's musings on life, politics, and identity as a Native woman in America. Artfully blending sly humor, social commentary, and meditations on love and loss, Midge weaves short, standalone musings into a memoir that stares down colonialism while chastising hipsters for abusing pumpkin spice. She explains why she doesn't like pussy hats, mercilessly dismantles pretendians, and confesses her own struggles with white-bread privilege. Midge ponders Standing Rock, feminism, and a tweeting president, all while exploring her own complex identity and the loss of her mother. Employing humor as an act of resistance, these slices of life and matchless takes on urban-indigenous identity disrupt the colonial narrative and provide commentary on popular culture, media, feminism, and the complications of identity, race, and politics.

'It's a funny old game.' - JIMMY GREAVES From golden balls to golden balls-ups, this kit bag of double entendres, outrageous quips and quotes is guaranteed to tickle your funny bone. A must for all Man Utd fans. 'SIMPLY RED captures many of the laughs associated with Manchester United.' - KEN DOHERTY 'A must-read not just for United fans, but for every football fan out there!' - SIMON DELANEY

A deadly compendium of all your favourite feckin' booksDo you know the difference between a bowsie and a cute hoor? Can you sing all the words to 'Raggle Taggle Gypsy' or whip up a Beef and Guinness casserole with a side of Boxty? If these questions have you scratching your head, then look no further. Discover how feckin' deadly Irish Slang can be, find out why plastic-wrap played a vital role in the sex lives of the Irish in the seventies, learn the words to the most beloved Irish songs and get the recipes for the most famous and delicious Irish dishes. The Feckin' Book of Everything Irish is a laughter-filled guide to the genuine culture of Ireland.

'Memories, aphorisms and stern good advice from America's favourite naughty aunt' Independent on Sunday 'This book is as grown-up as a dirty martini' Sunday Times 'Sharp as a knife' Daily Express ___ In her final book, Nora Ephron reflects on life, growing older, and everything she will and won't miss. Filled with Nora's trademark wit, wisdom and warmth. * No one actually likes to admit they're old. The most they will cop to is that they're older. Or oldish. * Freedom of the press belongs to the man who owns one. * I have been forgetting things for years-at least since I was in my thirties. I know this because I wrote something about it at the time. I have proof. Of course, I can't remember exactly where I wrote about it, or when, but I could probably hunt it up if I had to. ___ Praise for Nora Ephron 'So bold and so vulnerable at the same time. I don't know how she did it' Phoebe Waller-Bridge 'Oh how I loved Nora Ephron' Nigella Lawson 'Funny, knowing and smart' India Knight 'Nora's exacting, precise, didactic, tried-and-tested, sophisticated-woman-wearing-all-black wisdom is a comfort and a relief' Dolly Alderton

From Julius Malema's tantrums to President Zuma's plane trips, from Bakkies Botha's booting to Helen Zille's toyi-toyiing, it's been a big and busy year for news in the Rainbow Nation. Now comes the newsiest titbit of all: the new Madam & Eve annual hits the streets today. It's called The Pothole at the End of the Rainbow, and it features your favourite household maintenance executive, Eve Sisulu - now also a "Playmaid of the year" on the cover of the SA edition of Playboy Magazine - as well as Madam, Mother Anderson, and the usual crew of politicians, celebrities, and other leading South African icons and institutions. Another satirical winner from this sharp and witty creative team. The motley crew of Madam, Eve, Thandi and Mother Anderson are like old friends to most South Africans and their dysfunctional, chaotic and totally recognisable South African household is an unfailingly hilarious reflection of everyday life in this country.

A celebration in short stories of what makes London the city it is: the landmarks are there but it is the people who make the city, and the stories, work.

For Gervase Phinn, growing old is not about a leisurely walk to the pub for a game of dominoes or snoozing in his favorite armchair. As this sparkling collection of his very best humorous writing shows, he may be "out of the woods" but he is certainly not "over the hill." Looking back over more than 60 years of family life, teaching, inspecting schools, writing, and public speaking, Gervase never fails to unearth humor, character, warmth, and wisdom from the most diverse of experiences, whether they be growing up in Rotherham with the most un-Yorkshirelike of names or describing why loud mobile phone users get his goat.
Brimming with nostalgia, gently mocking life's absurdities, never shy of an opinion, this is Gervase Phinn at his wittiest, twinkly-eyed best.

Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant started the podcast Stuff You Should Know back in 2008 because they were curious-curious about the world around them, curious about what they might have missed in their formal educations, and curious to dig deeper on stuff they thought they understood. As it turns out, they aren't the only curious ones. They've since amassed a rabid fan base, making Stuff You Should Know one of the most popular podcasts in the world. Armed with their inquisitive natures and a passion for sharing, they research and discuss a wide variety of topics-always working to uncover the weird, fascinating, delightful, or unexpected pieces of any given subject, and then talking about it together in an accessible and humorous way. The pair have now taken their near-boundless "whys" and "hows" from your earbuds to the pages of a book for the first time-and with it comes loads of new content, covering subjects about which they've long wondered or wanted to explore in greater detail. Follow along as they dig into the underlying stories and interesting ways things fit into the world, touching on everything from the origin of Murphy beds, to the history of facial hair, to the psychology of being lost. An additional layer of visual material allows the duo to further embellish their engaging storytelling and bring these topics to life in a snappy new way-including charts and graphs, illustrations, and sidebars for rabbit-hole tangents and wandering digressions. Have you ever wondered about the world around you, and wished to see the magic in everyday things? Come get curious with Stuff You Should Know. With Josh and Chuck as your guide, there's something interesting about everything (...except maybe jackhammers)

Lawyers have long been known as master storytellers, and those from Tennessee are certainly no exception. Veteran oral historian and folklorist William Lynwood Montell has collected tales from dozens of lawyers and judges from throughout the Volunteer State, ranging from stories of a custody battle over a family dog that garnered national media attention to the self-proclaimed "smartest man in Clay County." Recorded exactly as the lawyers tell them, these stories are sometimes funny, sometimes sad, sometimes raw and harrowing, but always remarkable. Far more than a collection of lawyer jokes, Tales from Tennessee Lawyers recounts the most insightful, entertaining, and occasionally heartbreaking stories ever told by and about Tennessee lawyers and their clients, covering the spectrum from arson to homicide, domestic disagreements to sexual abuse, and everything in between. Tales from Tennessee Lawyers is a valuable resource for folklorists as well as a vivid account of the often-surprising legal world.

As everyone knows, taking a serpent by the tail is not a good idea. But in the Little World of Don Camillo, where the Devil crops up in many a guise to break the quiet rhythm of everyday life (and even the village priest falls foul of him), hilarious and unearthly things can happen to draw the poison from his bite... No. 7 in the Don Camillo Series, this bumper volume of classic Tales from the Lower Plain includes many never before translated into English. Beloved of 23 million readers worldwide, their appeal is universal, to readers aged from 10 to 100.'Inimitable, delicious, full of pure fun.' The Observer 'Giovanni Guareschi's tales of Don Camillo, the Italian priest with a hefty left hook, are absolutely delightful in their satirical swipes at human weakness.' Paul Merton

From marital bliss to man flu, husbands are jolly good fellows, and this tip-top collection of retro photos and frightfully funny captions capture everything to love about marriage. The Wit and Wisdom of... is a series of terrifically humorous books brought to you by the rip-roaringly funny folks behind the best-selling On-the-Ceiling greetings cards. Perfect as a birthday, Christmas, Valentine's Day or Father's Day gift for long-suffering husbands everywhere. Also available: The Wit and Wisdom of Dad, The Wit and Wisdom of Mum and The Wit and Wisdom of the Wife.

Letts Exercise Banks have been written specifically to match the Framework for Teaching Mathematics for Key Stage 3. Each book contains exercises focused on topic-specific Framework objectives and can be used alongside any Scheme of Work. Each title is divided into Year 7, 8 and 9 and every unit has a range of exercises covering National Curriculum levels 3 to 8. Progression and differentiation are built into the books by providing essential exercises, consolidation exercises and challenging exercises. Books in the series include Solving Problems, Numbers, Algebra, Shape, Space and Measures and Handling Data.

Many authors have traveled and explored the out-of-doors, both in life and then in their books, proving themselves stalwart, audacious, even heroic; Andrew Farkas is not among them. He is brave enough to admit that the outdoors isn't for him. Instead, in these essays Farkas reports on his bold explorations of a very different territory: the in-of-doors, the waiting rooms, kitchens, malls, bars, theaters, roadside motel rooms, and other places that feature temperature control, protection from rampaging predators, and a higher degree of comfort than can be found outside. Farkas discovers that, just as the mannered and wonderfully (gloriously) artificial indoors influences us greatly, our lives are also controlled much more by fiction than by anything "real." So come in out of the weather (it's always terrible) and join the Great Indoorsman on his adventures, where he makes fun of pretty much everything, most of all himself.

2021 Clara Johnson Award from Jane's Stories Press Foundation 2020 Gold Winner for Autobiography & Memoir in the Foreword INDIES Many are haunted and obsessed by their own eventual deaths, but perhaps no one as much as Sue William Silverman. This thematically linked collection of essays charts Silverman's attempt to confront her fears of that ultimate unknown. Her dread was fomented in part by a sexual assault, hidden for years, that led to an awareness that death and sex are in some ways inextricable, an everyday reality many women know too well. Through gallows humor, vivid realism, and fantastical speculation, How to Survive Death and Other Inconveniences explores this fear of death and the author's desire to survive it. From cruising New Jersey's industry-blighted landscape in a gold Plymouth to visiting the emergency room for maladies both real and imagined to suffering the stifling strictness of an intractable piano teacher, Silverman guards her memories for the same reason she resurrects archaic words-to use as talismans to ward off the inevitable. Ultimately, Silverman knows there is no way to survive death physically. Still, through language, commemoration, and metaphor, she searches for a sliver of transcendent immortality.

Thora looks back at domestic life, the theatre, going to church, growing up before the war, working in shops, and, never forgetting her true Morecambe roots, the hustle and bustle of the Northern seaside town. In her chatty and anecdotal style, she reminds us of all those words, objects and expressions that have gone out of modern usage and illustrates them with stories from her own early years.