- Table View
- List View
The White Birch: A Russian Reflection
by Tom Jeffreys'It has been hand-planted by Tsarinas and felled by foresters. It has been celebrated by peasants, worshipped by pagans and painted by artists. It has self-seeded across mountains and rivers and train tracks and steppe and right through the ruined modernity of a nuclear fall-out site. And like all symbols, the story of the birch has its share of horrors (white, straight, native, pure: how could it not?). But, maybe in the end, what I'm really in search of is a birch that means nothing: stripped of symbolism, bereft of use-value . . . A birch that is simply a tree in a land that couldn't give a shit.'The birch, genus Betula, is one of the northern hemisphere's most widespread and easily recognisable trees. A pioneer species, the birch is also Russia's unofficial national emblem, and in The White Birch art critic Tom Jeffreys sets out to grapple with the riddle of Russianness through numerous journeys, encounters, histories and artworks that all share one thing in common: the humble birch tree.We visit Catherine the Great's garden follies and Tolstoy's favourite chair; walk through the Chernobyl exclusion zone and among overgrown concrete bunkers in Vladivostok; explore the world of online Russian brides and spend a drunken night in Moscow with art-activists Pussy Riot, all the time questioning the role played by Russia's vastly diverse landscapes in forming and imposing national identity. And vice-versa: how has Russia's dramatically shifting self-image informed the way its people think about nature, land and belonging?Curious, resonant and idiosyncratic, The White Birch is a unique collection of journeys into Russia and among Russian people.
Whispers: A terrifying treat for you this Halloween
by Dean KoontzWhispers are driving Bruno Frye to kill - even if it means returning from the grave... Dean Koontz's Whispers is a gripping tale of terror, suspense and a killer intent on revenge. Perfect for fans of Stephen King and Harlan Coben.'Pulls out all the stops...an incredible, terrifying tale' - Publishers WeeklyA beautiful woman scarred by a hateful past. A compassionate cop haunted by a childhood blighted by poverty.Violence brought them together. An unspeakable abomination may tear them apart.Bruno Frye nightly succumbs to the malicious lullaby of the whispers. Losing himself in the nightmares of their rustling cries, he is deafened by whispers more piercing than any scream. In the dark recesses of his mind no act is too violent, no deed too shocking... What readers are saying about Whispers: 'This was, without a doubt, the best book I've ever read''Another masterpiece from Koontz''A truly brilliant and imaginative story which is very hard to put down'
Whisky: Malt Whiskies Of Scotland (Collins Little Books)
by Dominic RoskrowThis beautifully presented Little Book is an excellent introduction to the world of Scotch whiskies. It includes the major Scotch whiskies and the distilleries that produce them.
Whiskies Galore: A Tour Of Scotland's Island Distilleries
by Ian BuxtonIsland whiskies have long held a fascination and a powerful emotional draw on whisky drinkers the world over. Their special combination of heritage, mystique, and remote location captures the imagination; their highly distinctive flavours are often imitated but seldom bettered. There have been few books on island whisky and none written in recent years. But Whiskies Galore is not your average whisky book. It is not merely a catalogue of distilleries, but a story of discovery and adventure. Join Ian Buxton on a personal journey across Scotland's islands, where he learns to fish with high explosives, ends up hurling his dinner into the sea,and comes face to face with a basking shark. Combining an expert's knowledge of whisky with a travel writer's fondness for anecdote, and with a keen description of place, he provides a special treat for all who love the islands' magical drams.
While Wandering: A Walking Companion
by Duncan Minshull‘A book to start your heart and feet beating for the road’The TimesWith its stories of strolling, poems about pavement-pounding and wonderings on wandering, this is the indispensable collection for the flâneur and the rambler – and everyone in between. Take a turn with Jane Austen, stride side by side with Colm Tóibín, let restless William Wordsworth lead you through brook and road before a detour with Stella Gibbons to the park.Whether mountaineering with Mark Twain or visiting Oxford Street with Julian Barnes – be sure to take this anthology with you on your ambulations. With a new foreword by Robert Macfarlane. Previously published with the title The Vintage Book of Walking
While the Gods Were Sleeping: A Journey Through Love and Rebellion in Nepal
by Elizabeth EnslinLove and marriage brought American anthropologist Elizabeth Enslin to a world she never planned to make her own: a life among Brahman in-laws in a remote village in the plains of Nepal. As she faced the challenges of married life, birth, and childrearing in a foreign culture, she discovered as much about human resilience, and the capacity for courage, as she did about herself.While the Gods Were Sleeping: A Journey Through Love and Rebellion in Nepal tells a compelling story of a woman transformed in intimate and unexpected ways. Set against the backdrop of increasing political turmoil in Nepal, Enslin’s story takes us deep into the lives of local women as they claim their rightful place in society-and make their voices heard.
Where to Watch Birds in Surrey and Sussex (Where to Watch Birds)
by Matthew Phelps Ed StubbsThis site guide covers the counties of East Sussex, West Sussex and Surrey, including sites in southwest Greater London. From the heaths of Surrey to the chalky grassland of the North and South Downs, the great forests of the Weald and the headlands, shingle beaches and river valleys of England's south coast, these three counties are a bird-rich part of the country, with perhaps the most diverse range of habitats in the country, and all within easy distance of London, the southwest part of which contains birding sites such as Barnes wetland centre.This new book by Matthew Phelps and Ed Stubbs is the definitive guide to the birding highlights of the region. It contains a comprehensive review of all the major sites, and many lesser-known ones, with maps, notes on access, and information on target species and when to visit. Where to Watch Birds in Surrey and Sussex is indispensable for any birder heading to this bird-rich region, or anyone in London who wants to head south to enjoy some of the best birding England can offer.
Where to Watch Birds in Surrey and Sussex (Where to Watch Birds)
by Matthew Phelps Ed StubbsThis site guide covers the counties of East Sussex, West Sussex and Surrey, including sites in southwest Greater London. From the heaths of Surrey to the chalky grassland of the North and South Downs, the great forests of the Weald and the headlands, shingle beaches and river valleys of England's south coast, these three counties are a bird-rich part of the country, with perhaps the most diverse range of habitats in the country, and all within easy distance of London, the southwest part of which contains birding sites such as Barnes wetland centre.This new book by Matthew Phelps and Ed Stubbs is the definitive guide to the birding highlights of the region. It contains a comprehensive review of all the major sites, and many lesser-known ones, with maps, notes on access, and information on target species and when to visit. Where to Watch Birds in Surrey and Sussex is indispensable for any birder heading to this bird-rich region, or anyone in London who wants to head south to enjoy some of the best birding England can offer.
Where to Watch Birds in Southern and Western Spain: Andalucia, Extremadura and Gibraltar (Where to Watch Birds)
by Ernest Garcia Andrew PatersonSouthern Iberia is in the top rank of European birding hotspots, and the fourth edition of this popular book, first published in 1994, continues to ensure that visitors can make the most of the region's many attractions. The information on all sites has been brought right up-to-date, with revised maps and full updated site access details and species lists. Popular localities such as Doñana, Monfragüe and the Strait of Gibraltar get prominent treatment, but the reader is encouraged to wander further afield to visit other, less well-known but equally rewarding sites, including a number of additional localities that are new to this edition.This new edition is indispensable for all birders visiting this remarkable corner of Spain.
Where to Watch Birds in Southern and Western Spain: Andalucia, Extremadura and Gibraltar (Where to Watch Birds)
by Ernest Garcia Andrew PatersonSouthern Iberia is in the top rank of European birding hotspots, and the fourth edition of this popular book, first published in 1994, continues to ensure that visitors can make the most of the region's many attractions. The information on all sites has been brought right up-to-date, with revised maps and full updated site access details and species lists. Popular localities such as Doñana, Monfragüe and the Strait of Gibraltar get prominent treatment, but the reader is encouraged to wander further afield to visit other, less well-known but equally rewarding sites, including a number of additional localities that are new to this edition.This new edition is indispensable for all birders visiting this remarkable corner of Spain.
Where to Watch Birds in Southeast England: Essex, London and Kent (Where to Watch Birds)
by David CallahanThe definitive site guide to a surprisingly bird-rich corner of England – Kent, Essex and the Greater London area.From the deep forests of Kent to the low-lying mudflats, beaches and saltmarshes of the Greater Thames Estuary, this ecologically rich area of England attracts vast numbers of wildfowl and waders. The region boasts many internationally and nationally important reserves including Rainham Marshes and Cliffe Pools, while Dungeness in Kent is one of Britain's best known birding hotspots for vagrant species such as Penduline Tit and Kentish Plover. London itself contains numerous birdwatching sites including Barnes and Woodberry Wetlands, along with some of the best spots in Britain for scarcities such as Lesser Spotted Woodpecker and Black Redstart. From Marsh Harrier and Firecrest to Curlew and Lapwing, there is plenty for birdwatchers to enjoy while exploring the parks, wetlands, woodlands and coast of southeast England. Written by life-long birdwatcher David Callahan, this is the definitive guide to the birding highlights of the region. It contains a comprehensive review of all the major sites and many lesser-known ones, with maps, notes on access, and information on target species and when to visit. Where to Watch Birds in Southeast England is indispensable for any birder exploring the region, or anyone in London wanting to head out to the countryside and enjoy a slice of our rich avian heritage.
Where to Watch Birds in Southeast England: Essex, London and Kent (Where to Watch Birds)
by David CallahanThe definitive site guide to a surprisingly bird-rich corner of England – Kent, Essex and the Greater London area.From the deep forests of Kent to the low-lying mudflats, beaches and saltmarshes of the Greater Thames Estuary, this ecologically rich area of England attracts vast numbers of wildfowl and waders. The region boasts many internationally and nationally important reserves including Rainham Marshes and Cliffe Pools, while Dungeness in Kent is one of Britain's best known birding hotspots for vagrant species such as Penduline Tit and Kentish Plover. London itself contains numerous birdwatching sites including Barnes and Woodberry Wetlands, along with some of the best spots in Britain for scarcities such as Lesser Spotted Woodpecker and Black Redstart. From Marsh Harrier and Firecrest to Curlew and Lapwing, there is plenty for birdwatchers to enjoy while exploring the parks, wetlands, woodlands and coast of southeast England. Written by life-long birdwatcher David Callahan, this is the definitive guide to the birding highlights of the region. It contains a comprehensive review of all the major sites and many lesser-known ones, with maps, notes on access, and information on target species and when to visit. Where to Watch Birds in Southeast England is indispensable for any birder exploring the region, or anyone in London wanting to head out to the countryside and enjoy a slice of our rich avian heritage.
Where To Watch Birds in Somerset, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire
by Ken HallSomerset, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire are among Britain's finest counties in terms of habitat diversity, and their avifaunas are comparatively rich as a result. Much has changed in the region since the previous edition of this book – the famous Avalon marshes, for example, have become one of Britain's finest hotspots for wetland birds, for example – but this brand-new fourth edition offers a completely updated review of all the major sites, and many more lesser known ones, with new text and fully revised maps throughout. Where to Watch Birds in Somerset, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire is indispensable for any birder looking to head out into this ornithologically special corner of England.
Where To Watch Birds in Somerset, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire (Where to Watch Birds)
by Ken HallSomerset, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire are among Britain's finest counties in terms of habitat diversity, and their avifaunas are comparatively rich as a result. Much has changed in the region since the previous edition of this book – the famous Avalon marshes, for example, have become one of Britain's finest hotspots for wetland birds, for example – but this brand-new fourth edition offers a completely updated review of all the major sites, and many more lesser known ones, with new text and fully revised maps throughout. Where to Watch Birds in Somerset, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire is indispensable for any birder looking to head out into this ornithologically special corner of England.
Where to Watch Birds in East Anglia: Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk
by David CallahanEast Anglia – the jewel in the crown of British birding. The counties of Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire represent the most popular region for birders and naturalists to visit in the British Isles, whether to see wintering flocks of geese and waders, rare vagrants, scarce breeding birds such as cranes and bitterns, or just to soak up the countryside, be it fen, broad, coastal dune, breckland, heath or down. East Anglia really does have it all. This new book by David Callahan is the definitive guide to the birding highlights of the region. It contains a comprehensive review of all the major sites, and many lesser-known ones, with maps, notes on access, and information on target species and when to visit. Where to Watch Birds in East Anglia is indispensable for any birder heading to this bird-rich corner of England.
Where to Watch Birds in East Anglia: Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk
by David CallahanEast Anglia – the jewel in the crown of British birding. The counties of Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire represent the most popular region for birders and naturalists to visit in the British Isles, whether to see wintering flocks of geese and waders, rare vagrants, scarce breeding birds such as cranes and bitterns, or just to soak up the countryside, be it fen, broad, coastal dune, breckland, heath or down. East Anglia really does have it all. This new book by David Callahan is the definitive guide to the birding highlights of the region. It contains a comprehensive review of all the major sites, and many lesser-known ones, with maps, notes on access, and information on target species and when to visit. Where to Watch Birds in East Anglia is indispensable for any birder heading to this bird-rich corner of England.
Where the Wild Winds Are: Walking Europe's Winds from the Pennines to Provence
by Nick HuntSHORTLISTED FOR THE STANFORD DOLMAN TRAVEL BOOK OF THE YEAR AWARDA Financial Times Book of the YearA Spectator Book of the YearA Daily Telegraph Book of the Year'Travel writing in excelsis' -Jan Morris, author of Venice'A thrilling and gorgeous tale, packed with meteorological wonder' -Amy Liptrot, author of The OutrunNick Hunt sets off on an unlikely quest: to follow four of Europe's winds across the continent...His wind-walks begin on Cross Fell, the highest point of the Pennines, as he chases the roaring Helm - the only named wind in Britain. In southern Europe he follows the Bora - a bitter northerly that blows from Trieste through Slovenia and down the Croatian coast. His hunt for the 'snow-eating' Foehn becomes a meandering journey of exhilaration and despair through the Alpine valleys of Switzerland, and his final walk traces an ancient pilgrims' path in the south of France on the trail of the Mistral - the 'wind of madness' which animated and tormented Vincent Van Gogh.These are journeys into wild wind, but also into wild landscapes and the people who inhabit them - a cast of meteorologists, storm chasers, mountain men, eccentric wind enthusiasts, sailors and shepherds. Soon Nick finds himself borne along by the very forces he is pursuing, through rain, blizzards, howling gales, and back through time itself. For, where the wild winds are, there are also myths and legends, history and hearsay, science and superstition - and occasionally remote mountain cabins packed with pickles, cured meats and homemade alcohol.Where the Wild Winds Are is a beautiful, unconventional travelogue that makes the invisible visible.
Where the Wild Cooks Go: Recipes, Music, Poetry, Cocktails
by Cerys MatthewsA kitchen these days is a wonderful place. You can cook your way right round the world without spending a fortune and without even leaving your home. This is exactly what Cerys Matthews, food enthusiast, finds herself doing, with tried-and-tested recipes from all over the globe. Shall we go Spanish? Japanese? Scottish? Shall I cook inside? Light a fire?? Here, low-meat, vegan and vegetarian options, as well as cocktail recipes, offer up the world as your oyster. Accompanied by stories and folklore from each country, with a wonderful list of tracks to inspire while you cook and eat, this is a failsafe way to keep things interesting in the kitchen. With a recipe base and song list built over years of touring and discovering new places, Cerys has found that a simple list of ingredients and a great playlist on the go means there's always a ticket to ride.
Where the Waves Turn Back: A Forty-Day Pilgrimage Along the California Coast
by Tyson MotsenbockerIn this powerful memoir, following the death of his mother, Tyson Motsenbocker retraces the journey an 18th century priest took in this harrowing story of one man&’s pilgrimage of healing and finding beauty and hope in tragedy. After years on the road performing at sold-out venues, Tyson Motsenbocker returned home to the impending death of his 57-year-old hero and mother. He begged God to heal her, but she died anyway. When they buried her body, Tyson also buried the childhood version of his faith. Shortly before her death, however, Tyson became intrigued by the complicated legacy of Father Junipero Serra, the 18th-century Franciscan monk and canonized saint who dedicated his life to the idea that tragedy and suffering are portals to renewal. Father Serra built Missions up and down the California coast, spreading Christianity, as well as enabling and aiding in the oppression and colonization of the native Californians. Tyson discovered Serra&’s &“El Camino Real,&” a 600-mile pilgrimage route up the California coast that had been largely forgotten for more than 200 years. Two days after they buried his mother, Tyson set out on a pilgrimage of sorts, intending to walk from San Diego to San Francisco along the El Camino, following in the footsteps of the saint. Tyson&’s journey takes him down smog-choked highways, across fog-laden beaches, past multi-million-dollar coastal estates, and along the towering cliffs of Big Sur. And as he walks, Tyson also wrestles with his faith, questioning the pat answers and easy prayers he once readily accepted, trying to understand how hope and tragedy can all be wrapped up in the same God. The people he meets along the way challenge his understanding of the meaning of security, of what it means to live a meaningful life, and of the legacies we all leave behind. Where the Waves Turn Back is both part journal and part spiritual memoir, and ultimately, a thrilling and deeply satisfying read that asks questions that will resonate with readers seeking meaning in an utterly disorienting age.
Where the Ocean Meets the Sky: Solo into the Unknown
by Crispin Latymer'Nobody grows old living a number of years; people grow old only by deserting their ideals. Years wrinkle the skin, but to give up enthusiasm wrinkles the soul.'When Crispin Latymer hit 50 he had a 'What now?' moment - and decided he wanted to sail the Atlantic solo. But he was no intrepid adventurer - Latymer was an ordinary sailor, used to cruising the coasts of the UK, who wanted to do something memorable before he was too old.His voyage turned into an epic. Only two days into his trip, Latymer was caught by Tropical Storm Delta. During the following 23 days he also broke two ribs, was followed by pirates in a scary incident off the Mauritanian coast, and then broke a toe. He describes it all as 'magical'.Writing in an understated, inspirational way that speaks to ordinary sailors just like himself, Crispin's captivating story will encourage other cosy cruisers to break out of their comfort zone and dare to push their boundaries to where the ocean meets the sky.
Where the Ocean Meets the Sky: Solo into the Unknown
by Crispin Latymer'Nobody grows old living a number of years; people grow old only by deserting their ideals. Years wrinkle the skin, but to give up enthusiasm wrinkles the soul.'When Crispin Latymer hit 50 he had a 'What now?' moment - and decided he wanted to sail the Atlantic solo. But he was no intrepid adventurer - Latymer was an ordinary sailor, used to cruising the coasts of the UK, who wanted to do something memorable before he was too old.His voyage turned into an epic. Only two days into his trip, Latymer was caught by Tropical Storm Delta. During the following 23 days he also broke two ribs, was followed by pirates in a scary incident off the Mauritanian coast, and then broke a toe. He describes it all as 'magical'.Writing in an understated, inspirational way that speaks to ordinary sailors just like himself, Crispin's captivating story will encourage other cosy cruisers to break out of their comfort zone and dare to push their boundaries to where the ocean meets the sky.
Where the Magic Happens: How a Young Family Changed Their Lives and Sailed Around the World
by Caspar Craven Ranulph FiennesIn June 2009, Caspar and Nichola created a plan to sail around the world with their young children. Most people thought they were crazy. But over the past seven years they've embraced every moment of this momentous chapter of their lives. Five years of planning – the vision, the values, the practicalities, the realities, the excitement, the highs, the lows and the seemingly adventure-stopping obstacles – led to two wonderful years of living their dream – the magical and the scary; enjoying life and learning as a family.This is Caspar's story. It's a story of a fabulous sailing adventure but it's also so much more than that – it's an inspirational tale for all those wishing they could do the same; it's a practical guide to show you just how you can make it happen; it's a motivational story of leadership and teamwork within a family; and it's a funny, heart-warming tale of slightly unconventional family life. The fascinating narrative of Caspar's story is accompanied by useful text features such as tip boxes, sidebars and chapter summaries, so that the reader can easily extrapolate the necessary nuggets about how they can make the dream a reality.
Where the Magic Happens: How a Young Family Changed Their Lives and Sailed Around the World
by Caspar Craven Sir Ranulph FiennesIn June 2009, Caspar and Nichola created a plan to sail around the world with their young children. Most people thought they were crazy. But over the past seven years they've embraced every moment of this momentous chapter of their lives. Five years of planning – the vision, the values, the practicalities, the realities, the excitement, the highs, the lows and the seemingly adventure-stopping obstacles – led to two wonderful years of living their dream – the magical and the scary; enjoying life and learning as a family.This is Caspar's story. It's a story of a fabulous sailing adventure but it's also so much more than that – it's an inspirational tale for all those wishing they could do the same; it's a practical guide to show you just how you can make it happen; it's a motivational story of leadership and teamwork within a family; and it's a funny, heart-warming tale of slightly unconventional family life. The fascinating narrative of Caspar's story is accompanied by useful text features such as tip boxes, sidebars and chapter summaries, so that the reader can easily extrapolate the necessary nuggets about how they can make the dream a reality.
Where the Indus is Young: A Winter in Baltistan
by Dervla MurphyIn Where the Indus is Young , Dervla Murphy's indomitable will is matched by that of four-footed Hallam and her six-year-old daughter Rachel. Together they make a mockery of fear, trekking through the awe-inspiring Karakorum mountains not only in the heart of winter, but close to Pakistan's disputed border with Kashmir. They work their way up beside the perilous gorge carved through the mountains by the Indus, lodging with locals and eating, sleeping and bargaining with the Balts, who farm one of the remotest regions on earth. Despite the hardship, Dervla never forgets the point of travel, retaining enthusiasm for her magnificent surroundings and using her sense of humour to bring out the best in her hosts, who are often locked into the melancholic mood of mid-winter.
Where in the World is Osama bin Laden?
by Morgan SpurlockWith a baby on the way and a need to make the world safe for infant-kind, an unassuming film-maker from West Virginia employs his complete lack of experience, knowledge and expertise to find the most wanted and dangerous man on earth. Beginning his epic quest in New York City, he zigzags the globe in search of the bearded man: to Britain, France, Egypt, Morocco, Israel, Palestine, Saudi Arabia and Afghanistan, drawing ever closer to the heart of darkness in the tribal regions of Pakistan. Along the way he interviews experts and imams, breaks the Ramadan fast with Muslim families, helps disarm bombs with an Israeli squad, accompanies the British and US Armies in Afghanistan, and much, much more ... all in an attempt to understand the Muslim world and the roots of the conflict overshadowing the globe today.