Download or read book Christmas A Very Peculiar History written by Fiona Macdonald and published by Andrews UK Limited. This book was released on 2012-02-03 with total page 188 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Just when you thought it was safe to take a sneak peek into your stocking, it's 'Christmas: A Very Peculiar History'. Taking an unbiased view of the myth and mystery surrounding the origins of the yuletide season, this book introduces mindbending facts about the holiday season and shatters the myths surrounding some of Christmas' most treasured and well-known facets: When exactly was Jesus born? Why is Santa's outfit red and white? Where do we get Christmas trees from? What's the snow in a snowglobe made of? What's Boxing Day all about? 'Christmas: A Very Peculiar History' takes a sideways look at bizarre yuletide customs and stories from around the world, such as Santa's evil sidekick, the terrifying Krampus, and the Scandinavian celebration of Saint Lucy. So leave the mince pies on the mantlepiece if you've been good and block up your chimneys if you've been bad, because 'Christmas: A Very Peculiar History' is here.
Download or read book Charles Dickens A Very Peculiar History written by Fiona Macdonald and published by Andrews UK Limited. This book was released on 2011-12-20 with total page 189 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Taking a unique look at one of the most acclaimed and best-loved English writers of the nineteenth century, 'Charles Dickens, A Very Peculiar History' asks why, what, where, how and who the Dickens was Charles Dickens? Why did he keep a pet raven that pecked at his children's shins? Why did he have a tunnel built under the road in front of his country house? Was his dying corpse really carried from his mistress's house where he collapsed to his family home, so that he could die 'respectably'? Find out the answers to these questions and even more bizarre ones throughout the book, which features quirky stories and fascinating trivia about this singularly complex man and consummate artist.
Download or read book Fishing A Very Peculiar History written by Rob Beattie and published by Andrews UK Limited. This book was released on 2012-03-22 with total page 189 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Fishing, A Very Peculiar History' explores one of the most ancient and popular pastimes in the world in the unique Peculiar History style, packed full of fascinating facts, quirky trivia and mind-boggling statistics. Rob Beattie tackles everything from the history of fish and chips to fish that look like celebrities and from what the well-dressed angler is wearing this season to brave fishing adventures and different fishing techniques from around the world. Whether you read a page, a chapter or a whole book, you won't be able to help but be intrigued and amazed at how much information is packed into a Peculiar History title.
Download or read book World War One A Very Peculiar History written by Jim Pipe and published by Andrews UK Limited. This book was released on 2012-01-18 with total page 116 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: With the centenary of the outbreak of the The Great War coming in 2014, 'World War One, A Very Peculiar History' commemorates the events of the time by looking at some of the incredible lengths, no matter how risky or bizarre, people went to to defend their country. From Front pigs to hairy beasts, author Jim Pipe looks at the nicknames coined at the time, while providing mind-boggling lists and figures about the battles, the equipment used and the harsh conditions the troops faced. Laced throughout this chronological description of the events leading up to and during the war are tales of human endeavour, charity and daring - some scary, some quirky, and some truly unbelievable. So take the time to take in the sheer scale of sacrifice, destruction and political tension that World War One resulted in, because we won't be able to ask first-hand what it was like to fight in World War One for much longer.
Download or read book Victorian Servants A Very Peculiar History written by Fiona Macdonald and published by Andrews UK Limited. This book was released on 2012-02-03 with total page 188 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: It's not all longing looks across the dining room from that high-class gentleman! Life as a Victorian servant was tough, tough, tough! Discover the bizarre and oh-so-strict rules one had to keep to when serving the dignitaries in 'Victorian Servants: A Very Peculiar History'. Rise up through the ranks from washerwoman to housemaid to ladies' maid and beyond, but mind you don't keep any 'followers', as boyfriends are immoral and are strictly not allowed! While you wait on hand and foot from 5.30 am to 11 pm you won't even have time to rest your own. The chamber pots are certainly not to be sniffed at, and remember if the bell rings once, you are wanted. It's hard work but it's better than the alternative: begging, returning home penniless or heading to the workhouse. You'll discover stories of suffering and household tips galore in 'Victorian Servants: A Very Peculiar History'!
Download or read book London A Very Peculiar History written by Jim Pipe and published by Andrews UK Limited. This book was released on 2012-01-17 with total page 188 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Charting the quirky past of one of the most important cities in the world, 'London, A Very Peculiar History' will challenge what you thought you knew about this great capital and blow your mind with things you most certainly didn't. From Roman roads to the congestion charge, this title takes a whistlestop tour of iconic London landmarks and eras, whilst poking its head round the corner of the back alleys to see what's really been going on behind the scenes. Alongside the Top Ten Tourist Attractions you'll find curious recipes for cockney food (such as jellied 'iwz'), descriptions of London's 'lost buildings', and lists of royal residences, famous markets and classic film scenes featuring London landmarks. With humourous cartoon-style illustrations and amusing captions and speech bubbles, 'London: A Very Peculiar History' tells the untold tale of Britain's greatest tourist attraction, busiest commercial district and home to the Royals.
Download or read book William Shakespeare A Very Peculiar History written by Jacqueline Morley and published by Andrews UK Limited. This book was released on 2012-01-18 with total page 109 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: William Shakespeare, A Very Peculiar History' uniquely explores the life and works of the widely-regarded greatest writer of the English language. Through dispelling common myths (Could his father really not read or write? What really happened during 'the Lost Years'? Why did he retire from writing while only in his early 40s?) and revealing fascinating trivia, this book attempts to answer many of the often-disputed questions surrounding the life of Britain's favourite playwright. Find out about Shakespeare's family and childhood, and, with much reference to his works, discover why his writing has endured the test of time and remains endlessly adaptable. 'Exit, pursued by a bear'.
Download or read book Churchill A Very Peculiar History written by David Arscott and published by The Salariya Book Company. This book was released on 2021-02-03 with total page 196 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Winston Churchill, voted the greatest Briton of all time in a recent public poll, led a life rich in accomplishments, and this fast-paced chronological guide delves into the many ups and downs of his life and career. Marvel at his derring-do and precocious abilities as a young man during the Boer War, wince at his blunders as Home Secretary in the Liberal government, laugh along with his talent for self-promotion and admire his steely resolve during the Second World War. Featuring a beautiful gatefold illustration of Chartwell and its grounds, black and white illustrations, witty anecdotes, incredible trivia, a timeline and glossary, readers of all ages will be entertained and educated.
Download or read book The Man Who Invented Christmas written by Les Standiford and published by Crown. This book was released on 2008-11-04 with total page 258 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: As uplifting as the tale of Scrooge itself, this is the story of how Charles Dickens revived the signal holiday of the Western world—now a major motion picture. Just before Christmas in 1843, a debt-ridden and dispirited Charles Dickens wrote a small book he hoped would keep his creditors at bay. His publisher turned it down, so Dickens used what little money he had to put out A Christmas Carol himself. He worried it might be the end of his career as a novelist. The book immediately caused a sensation. And it breathed new life into a holiday that had fallen into disfavor, undermined by lingering Puritanism and the cold modernity of the Industrial Revolution. It was a harsh and dreary age, in desperate need of spiritual renewal, ready to embrace a book that ended with blessings for one and all. With warmth, wit, and an infusion of Christmas cheer, Les Standiford whisks us back to Victorian England, its most beloved storyteller, and the birth of the Christmas we know best. The Man Who Invented Christmas is a rich and satisfying read for Scrooges and sentimentalists alike.
Download or read book Gardening A Very Peculiar History written by Jacqueline Morley and published by The Salariya Book Company. This book was released on 2021-02-08 with total page 192 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Jacqueline Morley explores the history of one of Britain's favourite pastimes – gardening. Telling the story of gardens from paradise gardens of the ancient world to classically-influenced Renaissance gardens, and from wartime Digging for Victory to contemporary decking, barbecues and architect's designs, this pocket-sized book takes a thorough look at the development of gardening. Featuring black and white illustrations, witty anecdotes and incredible trivia, readers will be entertained and educated, discovering everything from medieval gardening to the garden's significance today.
Download or read book Make Do And Mend A Very Peculiar History written by Jacqueline Morley and published by The Salariya Book Company. This book was released on 2021-02-03 with total page 194 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Jacqueline Morley explores the story of clothing in a time of crisis. Telling the story of clothes rationing, the Utility Scheme and 'Make-do and Mend', this pocket-sized book takes a thorough look at Britain and other countries, and how they dealt with a drastically reduced supply of clothing in wartime. Featuring black and white illustrations, witty anecdotes and incredible trivia, readers will be entertained and educated.
Download or read book Great Scots A Very Peculiar History written by Fiona Macdonald and published by The Salariya Book Company. This book was released on 2021-02-03 with total page 192 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Great Scots, A Very Peculiar History looks at a whole host of great (and not so great) Scots and their influence on the world. The book features a short history of each person, detailing their achievements, personalities and lifestyles in a quirky and memorable way. Including chapters about Scots in power, scientific Scots, scandalous Scots and many, many more, Great Scots, A Very Peculiar History celebrates the men and women who have helped to shape Scottish history.
Download or read book The Blitz A Very Peculiar History written by David Arscott and published by Andrews UK Limited. This book was released on 2012-01-18 with total page 189 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Taking a unique look at how Britain survived the bombing of its major cities, 'The Blitz, A Very Peculiar History' tells a story of blackouts, Bletchley Park and bravery during the darkest (literally) period of World War II. From Dunkirk to Dad's Army, explore the many ways in which Britain tried to foil the incoming bomber planes, featuring quirky stories and fascinating trivia about this period of history. Were German paratroopers really dropped disguised as nuns? Find out the answer to this question and many more even more bizarre ones throughout the course of this amazing tale of sacrifice and survival in the face of adversity.
Download or read book Scotland A Very Peculiar History Volume 2 written by Fiona Macdonald and published by Andrews UK Limited. This book was released on 2011-12-13 with total page 188 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: “Scots Wha Hae!” 'Scotland, A Very Peculiar History - Volume 2' is the concluding part of a lively and informative account of the vibrant history of Scotland, from the beginnings of Stewart rule up to modern-day Scotland. Celebrating the many and varied cultural and historic achievements of the Scottish, from the fierce Jacobite uprising to John Logie Baird's insulating socks, this ebook provides an objective account of the nation's chequered (or rather, 'tartaned') history. You'll also find fact boxes, quotes, poetry and unbelievable recipes to share with your family and friends (although we'd advise that some old recipes are only fit for reading)!
Download or read book Brighton A Very Peculiar History written by David Arscott and published by Andrews UK Limited. This book was released on 2012-01-27 with total page 186 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Brighton: that curious master of reinvention - whether it's considered 'London-by-the-Sea' or 'England's San Francisco', it's certainly a city with a reputation for being on the edge. Delve deep into the weird and wonderful history of 'Brighthelmstone', and find out how this dreary fishing village became a dazzling playground for the louche and wealthy: from the fashionable Regency period to the age of DJs, Brighton has always been home to the proudly quirky. But it's not all sun, sea and a fish supper! Be sure to avoid the sleazy world of gang fights and murders as portrayed in Graham Greene's 'Brighton Rock', whilst ducking to miss the bottles hurled between the mods and the rockers during the famous beach battles. Fully exploring the ups and downs of a seaside town, it's 'Brighton - A Very Peculiar History'...with a bit of Hove on the side.
Download or read book Robert Burns A Very Peculiar History written by Fiona Macdonald and published by Andrews UK Limited. This book was released on 2012-01-23 with total page 116 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Taking a unique look at one of the world's most acclaimed and best-loved poets, 'Robert Burns, A Very Peculiar History' provides a fascinating insight into the life and times of Scotland's bard. Take a wee stroll through his romantic yet tragic life, and join him on his journey from underdog to celebrity. With much reference to his most famous works, Fiona Macdonald explores his profound, passionate poetry, as well as his use of the Scots language and his inspirations and influences. Featuring quirky stories and entertaining trivia throughout, find out what makes Burns so captivating to countless millions around the globe.
Download or read book Great Britons A Very Peculiar History written by Ian Graham and published by Andrews UK Limited. This book was released on 2012-01-04 with total page 188 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Great Britain can be accused of many things; a proliferation of queuing, a fondness of the demon drink; but it's not without more than its fair share of important historical and modern people. 'Great Britons: A Very Peculiar History' looks at a myriad brillliant Britons and their influence on the world. The book features a short potted history of each person, detailing their acheivements, personalities and lifestyles in a quirky and memorable way. From kings and queens, pirates and politicians, actors and directors to sportsmen, explorers, scientists and inventors, 'Great Britons: A Very Peculiar History' celebrates the men and women who have shaped Great Britain and made it what it is today.
