"The era that taste forgot..." Famous for glam rock, flares and platform shoes, the 1970s also saw the emergence of new ideas, movements and trends that continue to influence our world today. From the Watergate Scandal to the growing feminist and LGBTQ+ movements, the rise of punk and disco, and the release of groundbreaking movies such as Star Wars and Jaws, it was a period marked by brave fashion and innovation, social change and cultural shifts. Packed full of fabulous facts alongside fascinating quotes from the era's movers and shakers, this little book explores the key events, ideas and style that defined this pivotal decade. "I don't think there will be a woman prime minister in my lifetime." Margaret Thatcher, 1973. "If a bullet should enter my brain, let that bullet destroy every closet door." Harvey Milk, a prominent LGBTQ+ rights campaigner who was assassinated in 1978. The iconic Twin Towers – standing 415 metres feet in high and at the time the tallest buildings in the world – were added to the New York skyline in 1973. The "Thrilla in Manila" – perhaps the most famous boxing match of all time in 1975 between Joe Frazier and Muhammad Ali. In April 1976, college dropouts Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak – or "the two Steves" – formed Apple Computer, Inc.

Make love, not war. At the heart of the 1960s was a desire for change, a yearning for a new way of living and a rejection of the old order. From the civil rights movement or the Vietnam War to the Apollo moon landings or the launch of the birth control pill, and from the Beatles to the Beat Generation, it was a period of revolutionary change. Packed full of fabulous facts and quotes – from civil rights leaders and counterculture icons to writers, artists and musicians – this little book captures the key events, icons and ideas that defined this tumultuous decade. "A man may die, nations may rise and fall, but an idea lives on." John F. Kennedy, 1963 "We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools." Martin Luther King, 1964 "We don't like their sound. Groups of guitars are on the way out." Decca executive, after turning down the Beatles, 1962 The yellow smiley face was born in 1963 when American graphic designer Harvey Ball was approached by State Mutual Life Assurance Company to create a morale booster for employees. In 1967, South African surgeon Christiaan Barnard performed the world's first human heart transplant. In 1969, Woodstock – one of the most famous music festivals of all time – took place. More than 400,000 people attended the three days of peace and music.

The era that inspired Stranger Things... The 1980s were marked by the rise of conservative politics, the outbreak of the AIDS epidemic and, at the decade's close, the crumbling of the Berlin Wall – an event that heralded the start of a new age in global politics. Culturally, there was an explosion of creativity while material wealth and consumerism were on the rise. Icons such as Madonna and Michael Jackson dominated the music charts, groundbreaking films like E.T. captured hearts and the rise of cable television led to an abundance of entertainment options. Packed full of fabulous facts and fascinating quotes, this little book explores the key events, icons and ideas that defined the coolest of decades. "Mr Gorbachev, tear down this wall!" Ronald Reagan, 1987 "I am not less life-loving than you are. But I cannot sell my birthright, nor am I prepared to sell the birthright of the people to be free." Nelson Mandela, 1985 "I stand for freedom of expression, doing what you believe in and going after your dreams." Madonna On 8 December 1980, ex-Beatle John Lennon was shot dead. MTV, Music Television launched on 1 August 1981. In 1983, the Motorola DynaTac 8000X – affectionately known as "the Brick" – was launched. It could store 30 numbers.

Have you ever found yourself noticing the same number cropping up on a calendar, your watch or a passing bus? Or wonder why you keep bumping into people born on the same day of the month? The answers you seek lie in numerology. This little book offers the basics to discover your individual life path number and the meanings attributed to those numbers. As numerology is concerned with self-discovery, it's become popular as a personal development tool. Every name, date and numerical pattern in your life holds meaning and qualities and can help you gain insight into yourself, your relationships and your fate. SAMPLE QUOTE: 'Numerology is the bridge between who you are now and who you have the potential to be.' Anonymous SAMPLE FACT: Birth number 4 personalities are solid, stable and confident, ambitious and realistic. Because these people are so reliable and focused, they are high achievers but can become workaholics.

Knock-Knock is the world's oldest joke and yet has never gotten old! (It just feels it.) Invented by William Shakespeare in 1606, (appearing in his famed tragedy, Macbeth; bet you never knew that) the humble Knock-Knock joke has made eyes roll, noses snort and mouths chuckle for centuries. Since the Bard's drunken Beelzebub bit the long-suffering gag became a global 'punomenon' (in 1936) before settling today as the world's best kids (and Dads) joke format that encourages giggles and grimaces in equal measure... with endless punning potential. The latest kid on the block in Welbeck's big-selling Small and Mighty gift series, compiled by (self-proclaimed) 'World's funniest joke compiler', Malcolm Croft, The Small and Mighty Book of Knock Knock Jokes is a tiny bundle of joy that includes all the classic and vintage Knock-Knock jokes, as well as all the modern, twenty-first century ones too. And because the jokes are all clean and family-friendly, you can share them with kids of all ages without worrying about anything inappropriate. If laughter is indeed the best medicine, we recommend you take two Small and Mighty Book of Knock Knock Jokes with a glass of water and have a lie down – you'll find something to tickle your funny bone in no time, guaranteed! Knock-Knock! – Who's there? – Boo – Boo who? – Don't cry, it's just a joke. The World Record for the most knock-knock jokes told in one minute is 24, told by Alex and Andrea Rose from Texas in 2015.

For yoga and meditation practice, for daily affirmation and mental health, for manifestation and cleansing, and for setting specific intentions, here are over 100 mantras for different times of the day, such as at meals, with exercise or spiritual practice and before bedtime. They include traditional Sanskrit invocations from the Bhagavad Gita as well as modern interpretations, and the book also encourages you to set your own. A self-help tool that uses repetitive sounds to reach the subconscious mind, mantras will help counter negative self-talk, empower you to achieve your goals, and help you gain greater focus and clarity, as well as a sense of positivity, happiness, peace and wellbeing. SAMPLE QUOTE: 'I am enough. Who I am is enough. What I do is enough, and what I have is enough.' Anonymous SAMPLE FACT: The earliest mantras were composed in Vedic Sanskrit in India and thought to be at least 3,000 years old.

A modern mothering handbook – with none of the answers and all of the encouragement. Everyone tells you that having children is life-changing (and we're not just talking about your new habit of binge-watching Bluey episodes), but you don't really believe them until you're there in the trenches, dealing with yet another toddler tantrum in the middle of the street, after realising you forgot to buy milk, all on four hours of (broken) sleep. Parenting is one of the hardest jobs in the world, and yet everyone assumes you should be enjoying it twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, which is funny because that pretty much describes your working hours. Oh, and did we mention that there are no toilet breaks, or holidays, or dare we say it... wages? This book will be a handy companion as you deal with the ups and downs of motherhood. From making your way through those first few months of the newborn haze right through to sending them off into the world as (almost) proper adults, it contains a treasure trove of advice and words of wisdom from parents who have done it and got the (vomit-covered) T-shirt to prove it. While motherhood is undoubtedly special, it's not without it's challenges... and anyone who says otherwise is either a saint or has a really good nanny. "Being a mom has made me so tired. And so happy." Tina Fey "There's no way to be a perfect mother and a million ways to be a good one." Jill Churchill

"Buy land, 'cause God ain't making any more of it." When The Sopranos aired in 1999, it was at the forefront what is now known as the Golden Age of TV. Revolving around a suburban New Jersey gangster and his attempts to juggle work and home life, the show redefined the crime drama genre and, instead of stereotyped mobsters, gave us a sensitive portrayal of anti-heroes and deeply flawed characters we somehow find ourselves rooting for. Each episode looks like a movie, and the plots are dark and twisting, dealing with complex themes of depression, suicide, family strife and betrayal, and yet it never forgets to find the lighter moments in amongst it all, streaked through as it is with raucous humour and some truly unforgettable one-liners. This little book gives fans of the show a chance to relive the magic, to remember some of its most indelible moments and pithy exchanges, all while learning some lesser-known trivia along the way. If nothing else, it'll give them a break from wondering about what really happened at that diner in the final scene... "You don't shit where you eat. And you especially don't shit where I eat." Tony Soprano Creator David Chase only directed two episodes of the show: the first and the last.

A collection of the most inspiring and hope-filled words the Bible has to offer. In addition to being the founding document of Christianity, the Bible has long been known to contain some of the most beautiful words ever commited to the page. Much like Shakespeare, it is hard to overstate the influence this books (or, more acurately 'these books') has had purely from a literary standpoint, let alone its religious significance for millions across the globe. Countless individuals across the centuries have turned to its pages for hope in times of adversity, to look for consolation in times of grief, for hope in seemingly hopeless situations, for wisdom in uncertain times. It could be argued that these words of strength and encouragement are needed now, more than ever, as the world witnesses war once again and the threat of climate change looms, ever-present. The Little Book of Bible Verses is the perfect companion for those who find comfort in the words of scripture and wish to be encouraged by the message it brings – in good times, as well as bad. "The Lord is my strength and my defence; he has become my salvation." Psalm 118:14 "God has said, 'Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." Hebrews 13:5

The creative genius who gave us the Little Black Dress and Chanel No. 5.

Almost 50 years after her death, Coco Chanel remains one of the world's most influential fashion designers. Her story is one of creative brilliance and innovation – she was a driving force in freeing women from the restrictive clothing they had been obliged to wear for generations. 'In order to be irreplaceable, one must always be different,' Chanel would say, and throughout her life she demonstrated extraordinary passion and determination to change the world around her.

There is much wisdom to glean from Chanel's self-reflections, while her sharp wit and joie de vivre will amuse, surprise and inspire in equal measure.

Revealing a world of secret messages contained within a single petal. Floriography – the language of flowers – is the ancient art of encoding hidden messages in the type, colour and arrangement of plants, allowing individuals to express emotions and sentiments that they may not be able to articulate through words. Featuring 100 of the most popular and available blooms from around the world, this beautifully illustrated gift book gives the botanical name for each plant, a description of its significance and place in folklore, and the story behind its meaning. It also reveals how floral symbolism has been used over the centuries in literature and art, from Hamlet's Ophelia handing out rosemary 'for remembrance' and pansies 'for thoughts', to Oscar Wilde urging his friends to wear green carnations as a subtle code for homosexuality. The idea that flowers have secret meanings would have been well understood by contemporary audiences – and we are seeing a revival of the practice today. From mimosa – which signifies chastity because its leaves close when touched – to the varied messages encoded within different colours of geraniums, Floriography offers a creative way to convey feelings and can add an extra layer of beauty and significance to a gift of flowers. The flowers in Kate Middleton's wedding bouquet signified love, happiness, gallantry and fidelity. If someone sends you a bouquet of hydrangea and lobelia, beware: they stand for heartlessness and malevolence.

May your troubles be less and your blessings be more. The history of Irish blessings can be traced back to the early Celtic culture of Ireland, a culture rich in oral tradition and storytelling, and blessings and expressions of good wishes, kindness and positivity were a common part of daily life. These blessings were passed down from generation to generation, preserving the spiritual heritage of the Irish people. Over time, they became an integral part of the Irish cultural identity, and they were brought to other parts of the world by Irish immigrants. Today, Irish blessings continue to be a popular part of the cultural heritage of Ireland and to those with Irish ancestors who travelled and settled overseas and are used in a wide range of contexts, from religious services and weddings to everyday greetings and expressions of good wishes. Filled with heart-warming words of hope and comfort, The Little Book of Irish Blessings is the perfect companion or gift for anyone seeking a touch of Irish magic in their life. May you always have a rainbow of hope in your heart, and may the sun always shine on your face. May you have warm words on a cold evening, a full moon on a dark night, and the road downhill all the way to your door.

'Just be yourself, there is no one better.' From her girl squad to the Swifties to the world at large, Taylor's the BFF of the pop music world. As the go-to shoulder to cry on and chronicler of heartbreak, she relates her personal life and experiences in a 'dear diary' style in her music, but the artist is even more popular than her hit songs. One of the most followed on social media, she is a defender of the underdog, open about her feminist and pro-choice views and frequently speaks up against sexism and LGBTQ discrimination. This collection of Taylor's relatable, inspiring and hugely optimistic quotes and lyrics reveals a caring, generous personality who is all about 'the feels' and following your dreams. Sparkling with positivity and feel-good vibes, Taylor is always there to give you the best advice and lift you up when you're down – she's your own personal cheerleader. SAMPLE FACT: Swift has so far won a whopping 11 Grammys, smashing several records for the most wins as artist and as female artist.

Though his life was relatively short, Christian Ernest Dior's seismic influence on the fashion world ensures his name lives on as one of the most successful and celebrated designers of all time. Using the rationing restrictions of wartime, he created designs that extenuated the female figure and released the women of the world from the restrictive, dull clothing that restricted rather than enhanced femininity. It was Dior's sudden prominence on the world stage that restored Paris' reputation as the epicentre of the fashion world. To wear a Dior item of clothing, was to wear the best of the best. His post-War collection was described as a completely 'new look' by the editor-in-chief of Harper's Bazaar, one of the world's most powerful style magazines. The description was adopted and quickly became a fashion movement, with Dior's 'New Look' leading the way and even stealing the limelight from compatriot Gabrielle 'Coco' Chanel. The Little Guide to Christian Dior shows how despite coming from a wealthy background with powerful allies, Christian Dior may not have had to scrap his way to the top as Coco Chanel did, but his talent is no less worthy and his legacy as one of the world's greatest designers is no less deserving. 'My dream? To make women happier and more beatiiful.' As seen on Living in Fifties Fashion, 'Salute Mr Dior'

Life is better with a little avocado on the side. The perfect introduction to this versatile and nutritious fruit that continues to take the world by storm, The Little Book of the Avocado is packed with interesting facts, inspiring quotes and delicious recipes that will help you get the most out of this wonder food. For many, the perfectly ripe avocado holds a god-like status. With its creamy texture and rich, nutty flavour, the avocado is one of the most versatile ingredients in the kitchen. But the benefits of the avocado go far beyond its taste – packed with healthy monounsaturated fats, fibre, potassium, and various vitamins and minerals, the avocado is considered a superfood, offering a range of health benefits that are essential for a healthy lifestyle. With a history that makes it older than the invention of the wheel, the avocado has been a symbol of many things: an aphrodisiac, a superfood, a symbol of wealth and medical term to name but a few. So, whether you're looking to lower your cholesterol, boost your heart health, or simply get more nutrients into your diet, this little book has got you covered. "If you're trying to eat healthily, avocados are one of the best foods you can add to your diet." Dr. Axe, American chiropractor and nutritionist "The avocado is a food of the gods, and when you eat it, you feel like one too." Jason Wrobel, American vegan chef and author

This is exactly what you need on those overwhelming days when everyone is on your case or wants a piece of you – here you can tell everyone to 'get lost' like the best of them. Taking inspiration from the Bette Davis quote 'When a man gives his opinion he's a man; when a woman gives her opinion, she's a bitch,' this is a collection of quotes by tough-talking women who say it how it is, no holds barred, no regrets. 'You are either on my side, by my side, or in my f*cking way. Choose wisely.' - Anonymous 'I'm not a humanitarian. I'm a hell-raiser.' - Mother Jones

Messi is regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time. The humble and shy youngster from a working-class family in Rosario, Argentina, who was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency at the age of 11, would become one of the most famous footballers of all time and realise a boyhood dream by captaining Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022. Messi's popularity around the globe remains undiminished, adored by millions of football fans who put rivalries aside to salute this incredible footballer. He has won every major honour there is to win, including the coveted Ballon d'Or on a record seven occasions and a record two World Cup Golden Ball awards. His incredible career is mostly centred around his 21-year stay with Barcelona where is revered as a footballing god. Now playing for Paris St Germain, the Argentine genius continues to take the beautiful game to unchartered levels which has spanned a glittering career of more than 20 years – he is, quite simply, a maestro with the gift to do the seemingly impossible. "I have fun like a child in the street. When the day comes when I'm not enjoying it, I will leave football." Lionel Messi on retirement "I start early, and I stay late, day after day, year after year. It took me 17 years and 114 days to become an overnight success." Messi on Twitter, 13 August 2018 "There is only one Messi." Pep Guardiola, Manchester City manager 2018

Everything you wanted to know about country, from the men and women who put the music on the map, to the genres, guitars and history, to the greatest hits of all time. From the early beginnings of bluegrass, cowboys and Aussie bush balladeers through to modern stars like Shania Twain and Keith Urban, this little book covers key people, music styles and moments in country history. Enjoy folky wisdom from those who have written so movingly about heartbreak and hard times. Discover who plays a Gibson Les Paul and who prefers a Fender Telecaster. Learn the difference between Nashville sound and Bakersfield. So put on your Stetson, step into the line dance, and embrace your inner country-loving cowboy. Yee haw.

Get in the mood for love with this witty and empowering guide to getting it on. Searching for a saucy gift for your other half, an engagement present for your friend – or perhaps you just want to do a bit of, ahem, private study to brush up on your own technique? The Little Book of Sex hits the spot perfectly. Erupting with fun facts, naughty quotes and titillating tips, it will build your confidence between the sheets and help take you to the very height of pleasure. Whether you're looking for a lowdown on sex toys, a beginner's guide to BDSM lite, stories of history's most outrageous lovers, or even a troubleshooting guide for when the unexpected occurs, The Little Book of Sex has you covered. Fun, frisky and frequently eye-opening, it's proof that good things can come in small packages. Get lucky, get down and get it on... "Women need a reason to have sex. Men just need a place." Billy Crystal "A hard man is good to find." Mae West The word 'clitoris' derives from Ancient Greek kleitoris, meaning 'to titillate' and 'little hill'.

'Ginspiration' to keep you shaken and stirred. Gin may be the national spirit of Britain, but it is now a drink that belongs to the world. It's gone 'ginternational', if you will. Within the last decade or so gin consumption has exploded, becoming the most popular alcoholic refreshment in the world, overtaking whisky and vodka. Following the rules dictated by supply and demand, The Little Book of Gin is here to toast gin's extraordinary 'ginaissance' in the 21st century and to celebrate everyone's tipple of choice through wit and wisdom, facts and stats in a single serving-sized compendium. Filled to the rim with history, how to's, what for's, drinking games, cocktail recipes and serving suggestions as well as a whole host of 'gintellectual' curiosites, The Little Book of Gin is 'ginfinite' in its revelry. 'The gin and tonic has saved more Englishmen's lives, and minds, than all the doctors in the Empire' Winston Churchill - During WWII, British naval officers received a daily ration of gin. Gin takes its name from the Dutch word for juniper, genever. (It was the Dutch who invented gin, not the English.) Gin is the national spirit of Britain. It comes as no surprise then that gin has been having a 'ginaissance', in the last decade, with more bottles of the gin being sold than ever before.

Bringing rays of happiness and hope, one page at a time. Packed full of sayings, quotes, personal mantras and oodles of positivity, The Little Book of Sunshine is the perfect tool to pierce through any gathering dark clouds. Celebrating the rejuvenating power of sunshine and the green shoots of hope it brings, this book is the inspiration you're looking for when you're in need of some summery vibes on dark days. With affirmations to start your day, news stories that will put a smile on your face and ideas to bring happiness to other people's lives, as well as some of the little things in life that give people untold joy - this is the silver lining you've been looking for. From the fragile beauty of sunrise to the majestic calm of sunset, the sun's rays nourish us throughout the day, bringing us light, warmth, growth and the promise of daily renewal. Who doesn't love to raise their face to the sun and bask in the glow? This cheerful, uplifting book is a little ray of sunshine in your pocket whenever you're feeling down. "Keep your face always towards the sunshine, and the shadows will fall behind you." Anonymous proverb Did you know sunshine improves your sleep and reduces stress through regulating your melatonin levels; strengthens your immune system by increasing your vitamin D; and fights depression by boosting your serotonin?

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.'

The Small and Mighty range is the ultimate pocket-sized collectible series for young readers who can't get enough of their favourite topic. The Small and Mighty Book of Bears is a treasure trove of brilliant bear information. Inside, readers will discover tons of original animal art, plus a wealth of fun and fascinating bear facts. Frightening and fierce hunters, yet who also have friendly faces, we find bears funny and adorable and so feature them as charcaters in stories. From an acrobatic bear that does handstands to a bear that won a medal for bravery, read about the large, intelligent animals that come in all shapes and sizes. With profiles of the world's most roar-some creatures, this is a book no young bear lover can afford to be without! The largest bear ever was the giant short-faced bear. It lived throughout North America from 1.6 million to 11,000 years ago. It stood as much as 180cm tall. Brown bears have huge shoulder muscles, which make them very strong. The muscles are so big they give the bear a hump, which is one way of telling them apart from other bears.

Joe Biden: Quotes to Live By is an inspiring and hilarious collection of over 170 quotes from one of America's most beloved politicians. Homespun, caring and empathetic, Joe is the nation's uncle, but his sometimes bizarre and baffling remarks can seem misjudged at best and offensive at worst, even when they are the innocent result of his no-filter plainspeak. With his fascinating backstory, from conquering his famous stutter and his humble middle-class upbringing, to becoming the youngest senator elected to Congress at the time, to the deep tragedy of the loss of his young wife and baby daughter, and later his son Beau, to his light-hearted bromance with President Obama, Joe has an unparalleled ability to connect with the ordinary 'joe'. Despite his tendency for foot-in-the-mouth gaffes, his integrity, moral fortitude and patriotism shine from his words, revealing a dedicated public servant, devoted family man, person of faith and ardent American.You will find his thoughts on success, and his many failures, along with his hopes and dreams for the American people - because it's always the people whom he serves. Joe Biden has said, 'In this world, emotion has become suspect. The accepted style is smooth, antiseptic and passionless', which is certainly something that could never be said about him.

We live in turbulent times, and it often seems as if we've only just got used to the world as it is before it changes beyond all recognition yet again. In our hectic, fact-paced lives, the ability to adapt to changing circumstances is a must - and also much easier said than done. The Little Book of Resilience offers guidance for when the scales of life are tipped and resilience seems to be in short supply. Packed full of wise words from some of the world's best-known figures - from ancient philosophers and celebrated writers to modern-day personalities - this book will show you how to cultivate physical, psychological and emotional resilience in order to cope during challenging times. Sample Quotes: 'Resilience is all about being able to overcome the unexpected.' Jamais Cascio 'It's not the absence of fear. It's overcoming it. Sometimes you've got to blast through and have faith.' Emma Watson 'If your heart is broken, make art with the pieces.' Shane Koyczan