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Barry Davies’ face and voice are instantly recognisable to any UK sports fan. He has guided audiences through some of the most compelling and exciting moments in televised sport over the past 40 years. Here, he relives the magic of those events and reveals what was going on behind the scenes.
He has broadcast at a record 10 World Cup finals, and until stepping down in 2004 he was Match of the Days longest-serving commentator. But his expertise goes far beyond football: 10 Summer Olympic Games and numerous Winter Olympics, sharing in Torvill and Deans success in 1984 and heartbreak 10 years later. He is also synonymous with Wimbledon and the Boat Race.
The controversies of sport are also addressed, from the Hand of God to crooked judges and professional rivalries off-screen, together with many light-hearted mishaps played out in front of millions of viewers.
Born in 1917, the year of the Russian Revolution, the eighty-five years of Eric Hobsbawm’s life are backdropped by an endless litany of wars, revolutions and counter-revolutions. He has led a remarkably fulfilling and long life; historian and intellectual, fluent in five languages, a member of the Communist Party of Great Britain, until it dissolved itself, and writer of countless volumes of history. He has personally witnessed some of the critical events of our century from Hitler’s rise to power in Berlin to the fall of the Berlin wall. Hobsbawm has kept his eyes and ears open for eighty-five years, and has been constantly committed to understanding the ‘interesting times’ (as the Chinese curse puts it) through which he has lived. His autobiography is one passionate cosmopolitan Jew’s account of his travels through that past which is another country, where they do things differently, and how it became the world we now live in.
In his first full-length autobiography, comedy legend and national treasure Billy Connolly reveals the truth behind his windswept and interesting life.
Born in a tenement flat in Glasgow in 1942, orphaned by the age of 4, and a survivor of appalling abuse at the hands of his own family, Billy’s life is a remarkable story of success against all the odds.
Billy found his escape first as an apprentice welder in the shipyards of the River Clyde. Later he became a folk musician – a ‘rambling man’ – with a genuine talent for playing the banjo. But it was his ability to spin stories, tell jokes and hold an audience in the palm of his hand that truly set him apart.
As a young comedian Billy broke all the rules. He was fearless and outspoken – willing to call out hypocrisy wherever he saw it. But his stand-up was full of warmth, humility and silliness too. His startling, hairy ‘glam-rock’ stage appearance – wearing leotards, scissor suits and banana boots – only added to his appeal.
It was an appearance on Michael Parkinson’s chat show in 1975 – and one outrageous story in particular – that catapulted Billy from cult hero to national star. TV shows, documentaries, international fame and award-winning Hollywood movies followed. Billy’s pitch-perfect stand-up comedy kept coming too – for over 50 years, in fact – until a double diagnosis of cancer and Parkinson’s Disease brought his remarkable live performances to an end. Since then he has continued making TV shows, creating extraordinary drawings… and writing.
Windswept and Interesting is Billy‘s story in his own words. It is joyfully funny – stuffed full of hard-earned wisdom as well as countless digressions on fishing, farting and the joys of dancing naked. It is an unforgettable, life-affirming story of a true comedy legend. ‘I didn’t know I was Windswept and Interesting until somebody told me. It was a friend who was startlingly exotic himself. He‘d just come back from Kashmir and was all billowy shirt and Indian beads. I had long hair and a beard and was swishing around in electric blue flairs. He said: “Look at you – all windswept and interesting!” I just said: “Exactly!” After that, I simply had to maintain my reputation…’
Equiano’s narrative is the most significant autobiographical account of slavery to emerge from Britain’s centuries as a slave trading and slave owning power. It remains as powerful today as it was when first published in 1789.
It tells the story of Equiano’s remarkable life, recounting his years of slavery, working on ships that carried him across the empire and into battle during the Seven Years War, and the extraordinary story of how he was able to purchase his own freedom. Travelling to Britain as a free man Equiano settled in London and there became a leading figure in the early abolition movement.
The publication of his narrative was carefully timed to coincide with the first attempt to abolish the slave trade. Describing his own experiences of slavery as both victim and witness, the book became a sensation and its author the most famous black person in Georgian Britain.
In this new edition, leading historian David Olusoga sets the book in its historical context helping us to understand this complex, spiritual, politically astute and deeply passionate man. Although Equiano did not live to see the abolition of the slave trade or slavery his voice was critical to that that long campaign.
THE GENERALS is the compelling second novel in Simon Scarrow’s bestselling Wellington and Napoleon quartet. A must read for fans of Bernard Cornwell.
In the turbulent aftermath of the French Revolution Napoleon Bonaparte stands accused of treachery and corruption. His reputation is saved by his skill in leading his men to victory in Italy and Egypt. But then he must restore order in France and find peace or victory over her enemies: England – and Arthur Wellesley (the future Duke of Wellington).
Wellesley is leading a vast army in India, where British interests are under threat. The campaign will result in the creation of the Raj – the jewel in the British Empire’s crown. Wellesley returns to England a hardened veteran and more determined than ever to end France’s domination of Europe.
Both Wellesley and Napoleon intend to win – whatever the cost. Who will ultimately succeed?
Professor Zhang Guangde’s most popular form of Dao Yin Yang Sheng Gong (DYYSG) exercises are carefully designed to promote and maintain good health and wellbeing. This book presents the movements and offers a means of developing good health, calmness and tranquillity.
Detailed guidance and photographs show how the series of eight movements can be carried out safely and effectively, regardless of age or health condition. Accompanying online videos featuring Professor Zhang Guangde provide a useful reference for ensuring that each exercise is being carried out in the correct way. Expert commentary on the form explains the wide range of health benefits, from improving breathing to promoting longevity. The principles shared in this book are also useful in the practice of many other dao yin sequences.
Kid Force 3 are Jayden, Layla and Caleb. They aren’t regular kids, they’re super kids – each with an amazing superhero power.
In this story, Gerneal Mayhem kidnaps Caleb in a ploy to trap his friends … and she has a dangerous proposal for them once they find her!
This title is published by Franklin Watts EDGE, which produces a range of books to get children reading with confidence. This series is suitable for guided reading with children aged 5+, but also for older readers with low reading confidence or struggling to enjoy books (reluctant readers). Reading age 6 years old, Book Band Orange 6, Interest Level 6-11 years old.
Get the whole series! EDGE: Kid Force 3: Alien Kidnap
EDGE: Kid Force 3: Robot Runaway
EDGE: Kid Force 3: Day of Doom
EDGE: Kid Force 3: General Mayhem EDGE: Kid Force 3: Dr Vlogger EDGE: Kid Force 3: The Toxic Cookie Monster
What is it about bikes that leaves so many of us powerless to resist? This entertaining guide charts the history of the bike from its origin as a cheap means of transport to its modern incarnations: a symbol of rebellion, a high-tech racing machine and the rich kid’s plaything. Richard Hammond, passionate biker and collector of bikes, looks at the machines that have propelled people across the world to work, to school – and occasionally to their doom.
With his trademark expertise and wit, Hammond examines bikers of every type, from the happy farmer trundling through fields on his Honda Cub to the Hells Angel terrorising towns on their hog.
‘Every time I have ridden 66, within 10 miles of setting off, I never want that ride to end. I think it’s because Route 66 encapsulates struggle, and, ultimately, triumphing over unimaginably difficult conditions. I think everyone can connect with that.’
RIDING ROUTE 66 follows Henry Cole as he travels along Route 66, on a journey of self-discovery.
Route 66, or the ‘Mother Road’, is one of the most famous roads in the USA. Crossing the width of the country, it is an immensely challenging road to travel. Henry has ridden it four times. This book is about the freedom that only the road and a motorcycle can give you, and the importance of embracing the highs and lows of life equally.
Henry is one of the most well-known figures in motorcycling, having presented over twenty series of many TV shows as well as being the founder of bespoke motorcycle manufacturer Gladstone Motorcycles.
I can’t think of anywhere I’d less like to be than in a car. When you’re driving a car, you’re not taking part, you’re a spectator. You’re in a can; if it’s cold you turn up the heating, if you’re hungry you have a wine gum. You might be looking at what’s going on, but you’re definitely not a part of it. A BIKER’S LIFE is the dramatic, humorous and candid memoir of one of the most recognisable names in motorcycling.
Henry Cole’s passion for motorbikes began when, at the age of eight, he was first introduced to a ‘man cave’. His great-uncle Redbeard’s corrugated iron shed was ‘stuffed to the gills with old motorbikes’ which Henry helped rebuild and ride. Since then, Henry’s life can be charted through the bikes and journeys he has been on – from a stifling public-school education, via many years battling addiction, to the big-sky iconic routes Henry has ridden for over twenty series as presenter of numerous TV shows.
This book reminds millions of motorcyclists why their bike gives them the freedom to be exactly who they want to be: to say ‘Fuck you, fuck the world, I’m doing my thing.’ When you ride a motorbike you become part of a worldwide community of kindred spirits – those of us who will not be pacified by driving a car, but instead live for adventure, escape and the sheer thrill of the throttle.
This is the definitive story of Triumph, told through 130 years of its magnificent motorcycles.
Created with support from Triumph and with a foreword from CEO Nick Bloor, The Art of the Motorcycle is a celebration of Triumph’s most beautiful bikes, and an essential companion for any fan.
With unprecedented access behind the scenes, the book tells the story of Triumph’s motorcycles through the years, from the earliest models and much-loved classics to the most recent bikes. Features include:
Entries on each of the greatest Triumph models
Stunning photography throughout – including never-before-seen images
Detailed technical information
Early design sketches
First-hand reports from the people who were there
Other treasures from the Triumph archives
With insightful, thoroughly-researched text, Triumph – The Art of the Motorcycle is the ultimate history of an enduring icon, told through its greatest machines.
Nora Franglen’s straightforward, accessible guide introduces this ancient Chinese system of medicine. She briefly covers its history and explores the philosophy behind it, explaining how it can benefit the reader personally by addressing specific health needs and general well-being. Five element acupuncture treats the whole person by accessing the natural energy channels each of us possess and correcting the imbalances between our five elements to restore both physical and mental wellbeing. With case studies of patients throughout, the guide provides immediate insight into how an acupuncturist diagnoses and treats patients, looking at the importance of each of the five elements in turn, and how they relate to each other.
This deceptively simple guide will help anyone interested in learning about the benefits and traditions of five element acupuncture, five element theory or Chinese medicine in general. It will be of particular interest to students as well as a great resource for practitioners to recommend to patients.
Amazing Science uses the extraordinary and mind-boggling facts about science to introduce children to the core topic of light at KS1. Each spread starts with an interesting fact about light, supported by a dramatic picture to engage the child’s interest. It then seeks to explain, in simple terms, the science behind it. ‘Your Turn’ boxes then challenge children to look around them for similar examples.
Amazing Science uses the extraordinary and mind-boggling facts about science to introduce children to the core topic of plants at KS1. Each spread starts with an interesting fact supported by a dramatic picture to engage the child’s interest. It then seeks to explain, in simple terms, the science behind it. ‘Your Turn’ boxes then challenge children to look around them for similar examples, such as what materials are used for.
Amazing Science uses the extraordinary and mind-boggling facts about science to introduce children to the core topic of sound at KS1. Each spread starts with an interesting fact supported by a dramatic picture to engage the child’s interest. It then seeks to explain, in simple terms, the science behind it. ‘Your Turn’ boxes then challenge children to look around them for similar examples, such as what materials are used for.
This book describes the lives and personalities of 20 remarkable people from the past, who may well have had Asperger’s syndrome (AS). Famous in the fields of art, literature and science, among others, they illustrate vividly how highly intelligent people are able to surmount some of the problems that AS causes and achieve so much – more than might have been possible without it.’
– Human Givens
‘The aim of this book is to raise the self-esteem of individuals with AS. It certainly illustrates how much the world owes to people with AS. It would be relevant to anyone with an interest in AS.’
– Good Autism Practice
‘A highly readable text.’
– Advances in Clinical Neuroscience and Rehabilitation
‘Definitely worth a read.’
– The National Association for Gifted Children
‘James makes a convincing case for including each on the list. He also helps to explain what some dismiss as “artistic creativity” as actually a logical aspect of AS.’
– Book News
This fascinating collection identifies famous figures from the past whose behaviour suggests they may have had autism, a disorder that was not defined until the mid-20th century. James looks at the lives of 20 individuals – scientists, artists, politicians and philosophers – examining in detail their interests, successes, indifferences and shortcomings.
Among the profiles are those of mathematician and philosopher Bertrand Russell, who wondered in his autobiography how he managed to hurt the people around him quite without meaning to; biologist Alfred Kinsey, who excelled in academia but was ill at ease in social situations; and the writer Patricia Highsmith, who had very definite likes (fountain pens and absence of noise) and dislikes (television and four-course meals). From Albert Einstein to Philip of Spain, these intriguing individuals all showed clear evidence of autistic traits.
This book will be of interest to general readers and anyone with a personal or professional interest in autism.
Amazing Science uses the extraordinary and mind-boggling facts about science to introduce children to the core topic of forces at KS1. Each spread starts with an interesting fact supported by a dramatic picture to engage the child’s interest. It then seeks to explain, in simple terms, the science behind it. ‘Your Turn’ boxes then challenge children to look around them for similar examples, such as how forces are at work all around us.
Sources are eclectic, results mixed, but one thing is certain: car design is being forced up an ever tightening spiral of creativity. These machines are memorials of our tastes, yearnings and capabilities. They have layers of meaning and can, as Henry Ford knew, be read like a book… if only you know how. The story of the car is the story of how the objects of industry became a medium of artistic expression.This book tells that story in a series of case studies which reveal national characteristics: American flair, German technical suprematism, French vernacular chic, gorgeous Italian sculpture, English antiquarianism, Japanese ingenuity, Swedish responsibility. Cars featured appear in chronological date order from the 1908 Ford Model T to 2003 BMW 5 Series.The chosen cars will be specially photographed in a uniform style and reproduced in very textured, 4 colour b/w so as to distance this book from the cliches and conventions of specialist automotive publishing and to highlight form and shape. Each picture will be accompanied by a short critical essay including essential historical material together with colourful anecdotage and quotations as well as a persuasive aesthetic appraisal of each vehicle. This lavish and beautifully designed book is the gift book for all car enthusiasts and design aficionados.
With a preface from founding member of Pink Floyd, Nick Mason. Prepare yourself for the world’s greatest road trip.
Strap yourself in for a cavalcade of the fastest, biggest, smallest, most expensive, most innovative and downright sexiest motorized vehicles ever produced. Whether you’re a vintage car spotter or an armchair petrolhead, 1001 Cars To Dream Of Driving Before You Die brings you the best stories and the most amazing photographs of the finest cars from every corner of the globe.
This truly global guide offers a unique history of motoring through the ages, from Henry Ford’s pioneering Model T, with its hand-cranked starter, to the latest hi-tech vehicles, such as the Lexus LS 600h, hybrid-powered, 4×4 sports saloon, and reveals the stories behind the cars, the geniuses who designed them, the companies and factories who built them, and the people who drove them.
Discover the extraordinary contraptions that started it all more than 100 years ago and drool over today’s most spectacular supercars. From the most famous Ferraris and Porsches to ground-breaking sports cars from Brazil, South Africa and New Zealand, 1001 Cars To Dream of Driving Before You Die is the ultimate car enthusiast’s companion. Featuring cars chosen by stars, millionaires and world leaders, from James Dean’s Porsche 550 Spyder and Al Capone’s Cadillac V16 to the classic James Bond favourite, the Aston Martin DB5, there’s a car here for every petrol-head.
Created in collaboration with Jaguar, this stunning book is the definitive story of its legendary cars.
Jaguar: The Art of the Automobile is a journey through 100 years of beautiful cars – an essential companion for any fan and the perfect gift.
With unprecedented access to material from the Jaguar archive, the book tells the story of the marque’s cars through the years, from the earliest models and much-loved classics to the most recent machines. Features include:
Entries on each of the greatest Jaguar models
Stunning photography throughout – including never-before-seen images
Detailed technical information
The full story of the creation of the most legendary models
Other treasures from the Jaguar archives
With insightful, thoroughly-researched text, Jaguar: The Art of the Automobile is the ultimate history of an enduring icon, told through its greatest machines.
Foreword by Formula 1 world champion Jenson Button.
From the magazine synonymous with style comes the ultimate guide to the greatest cars the world has ever seen.
With imagery from the finest motoring photographers, plus British GQ‘s knowledgeable in-depth reports, the cars in this book represent the pinnacle of driving style and performance.
From design classics to the very latest machines, GQ Drives is an indispensable handbook of automotive excellence.
Supercars are the stuff of childhood dreams, the perfect blend of power and beauty. Here, the experts at evo magazine assemble the 100 greatest supercars ever built, from the red-blooded Ferraris of the 1960s to the technical prowess of the very latest McLarens, all accompanied by jaw-dropping photography from the world-renowned evo photographers and key performance stats.
Contents include:
Ferrari Daytona (1968)
Porsche 911 Turbo (1975)
Ferrari Testarossa (1984)
Lamborghini Diablo (1990)
Jaguar XJ220 (1992)
Pagani Zonda C12S (2000)
Ford GT (2004)
Aston Martin Vanquish S (2004)
Koenigsegg CC85 (2005)
Bugatti Veyron SS (2010)
McLaren P1 (2014)
Ferrari LaFerrari (2014)
Lamborghini Huracan LP610-4 (2014)
Koenigsegg One:1 (2014)
A stunning celebration of Aston Martin’s iconic cars, from the early models and legendary James Bond cars, to the very latest machines – with incredible photography throughout.
The experts at evo magazine look back at Aston Martin’s glorious history, with first-hand, behind-the-wheel reports, technical information and performance stats.
From the earliest surviving models to the latest machines, the greatest Astons of all time are tried and tested, accompanied by jaw-dropping photography from the world-renowned evo photographers.
Special features explore the stories behind the famous James Bond cars, from Goldfinger DB5 to Spectre DB10, as well as the story of Aston on track, from early racing prototypes to Le Mans glory.
An in-depth study of a motoring icon, evo: Aston Martin is a roll call of motoring excellence and a must-have for all petrolheads.
