Jane Austen’s novels are read all over the globe, and adaptations of her works have graced both film and TV screens. Although sometimes criticised for being detached from the real world, providing nothing more than light-hearted plot-driven story lines, the reality is very different. Jane was aware of the evils of society, of the problems faced by women whether single or married. Underneath the entertaining story lines are much darker aspects of Regency and Georgian life. Staying single resulted in serious problems for young women; there were very few alternatives open to them, while marriage itself resulted in other risks. The threats of poverty or becoming a victim of crime were also an issue. Indeed, Jane’s aunt spent months in prison and faced the threat of transportation for theft. Other problems society faced included those posed by opium addiction, poor medical standards, and a lack of property leaving young men and women struggling to survive. Many sought solutions in India, leading to the creation of ‘fishing fleets’ with girls sent to marry total unknowns. Meanwhile, the issues of slavery brought more problems, and social disorder was rife. Jane Austen created classic stories that have endured the test of time, reflecting society in all its aspects, faults, values both good and bad. This is Jane Austen as you have never seen her before.
People are becoming more aware of the environment and their impact on it. Over the past decades we have become an increasingly consumerist based society. From a world in which recycling was common, single use became the norm. This throwaway society is unsustainable. Sustainable gardening results in the creation of an environmentally friendly area in which natural predators thrive and soils are naturally replenished. Discover innovative and simple ways of recycling everything from water to materials in the garden. Practical examples show recycling in action turning unwanted items into useful features such as bottle edging, footpaths made from tyres, garden forks into table lamps, broken pottery to mosaics and tree roots into lush garden stumperies. Recycling, reusing and upcycling in the garden can make a difference helping you save money by using less water, making your own compost, choosing energy efficient equipment and by giving everyday items a totally new function. Instead of a throwaway society, we are increasingly looking at ways of reducing our use of increasingly scarce resources, turning plastic into paths, using solar energy and conserving water. Natural recycling of plant material and sustainable gardening is increasingly popular. This book helps search for creative ideas that can conserve resources, and save you money. Water is no longer cheap, so the book suggests many ways that you can re-use water and get free rainwater. The book helps you with places you may not think of looking for free and cheap material, such as reclamation yards, factories, restaurants and hospitals. Let your imagination run free without needing much skill and without breaking the bank.
“Dive into the history and culture of juniper spirits in this fun and informative book . . . a must-read for marketers and gin lovers alike.” —The Spirits Business Gin is a global alcoholic drink that has polarised opinion like no other, and its history has been a roller coaster, alternating between being immensely popular and utterly unfashionable. The Weird and Wonderful Story of Gin explores the exciting, interesting, and downright curious aspects of the drink, with crime, murder, poisons, fires, dramatic accidents, artists, legends, and disasters all playing a part. These dark themes are also frequently used to promote brands and drinks. Did you know that the Filipinos are the world’s biggest gin drinkers? And even that Jack the Ripper, Al Capone, and the Krays all have their place in the history of gin? Not to mention Sir Winston Churchill, Noel Coward, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and James Bond! “Gin was the original Dutch courage and mothers’ ruin and there is drama, disaster, crime and royal patronage in its story as its fortunes lurch from being hugely popular to deeply unfashionable—and back again.” —Great British Life
London and the Royal Family are inextricably intertwined. Generations of monarchs have been crowned, married and buried there. Linking Hampton Court Palace to Greenwich is a royal river, which in turn has been used for royal celebrations and progresses as well as a route to imprisonment and execution. In the current century, London became a focus of Royal Jubilees. Wherever you go within London there are places and scenes linked to past and present royalty. Thousands of people come every year to see the stunning places associated with the Royal Family, to watch spectacular ceremonies like Changing of the Guard, The Trooping of the color, or simply to explore the history and heritage of Royal London. Royal London highlights everything from Westminster Abbey, the site of coronations and weddings to the Victoria & Albert Museum and Horse Guards Parade. Take a look at royal palaces such as Buckingham Palace, Kensington Palace and Kew Palace. Discover amazing stories at the Tower of London. Discover where the Duchess of Cambridge danced with Paddington Bear, where the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge together with Prince Harry duelled with wands, the bakery popular with Meghan, Duchess of Suffolk, an apothecaries garden of which the Prince of Wales is patron and some of Princess Eugenie’s artistic venues. Take a trip to RAF Hendon and see the helicopter piloted by the Duke of Cambridge while serving with the RAF Search & Rescue or explore the football grounds supported by royal princes. Shop in the stores that are used by Royalty. Discover London from a royal perspective exploring the shops, places and venues linked to modern royalty.
Fleas are unpleasant, nasty things, which are impossible to eradicate. They spread like wildfire and your home can become infested within a matter of days. Whether you have pets or not, the chances are you are going to encounter fleas at some point in your life. The problem can be minimized, and dealt with easily – as long as you are aware that it has to be dealt with on a holistic basis - rather than just relying on one measure. No single type of treatment whether it is chemical or alternative medicine is enough on its own. Cleaning, combing and care of the outside environment are equally important. Be prepared for fleas and take action immediately. The result will be a much more comfortable life for you and your dog. This book is an independent guide to dealing with fleas on dogs. It is based on personal experience of major infestations of fleas. When I researched the subject to find answers, I discovered that much of the advice out there is biased, as it is created by commercial firms eager to sell their product. This is a practical, straightforward guide offering suggestions as to ways of dealing with fleas, both on an emergency and on a long-term basis, whether you prefer chemicals or natural methods. Bear in mind that there are no instant solutions. It takes time and a lot of hard work to deal with the problem. Careful, thorough cleaning of your dog, bedding and the entire house and garden is essential.
Fleas are a nightmare.They have been around for centuries and are impossible to eradicate. All too frequently, you do not realize they are in your home, and on your body and that of your cat until it is too late. Within days, your cat and your home is infested with fleas. Dealing with them can be a nightmare. The problem can be minimized and dealt with - as long as you deal with it on a holistic basis - rather than just relying on one measure. No single type of treatment is enough. Having suffered the problem of a major infestation,I know how upsetting and uncomfortable life becomes for both you and your cat. Pet stores and vets are experiencing an ever-increasing demand for products and information about dealing with fleas. The hardest part is trying to decide how to deal with infestations. All too often the impression is given that all you need to do is to administer a flea control to your cat and that is all that is needed. Unfortunately, once fleas are in the house, it becomes much more difficult to control. A lot of work is needed. This is a practical, straightforward guide offering suggestions as to ways of dealing with fleas both on an emergency and on a long term basis, whether you prefer chemicals or natural methods. The book explains the nature of the problem, and highlights exactly how to deal with infestations. There are both chemical and natural alternatives available. It is up to you to choose what is right for you.
Written over a hundred years ago to draw attention to the problems of justice and poverty in France; Les Misérables has become a global phenomenon. Its message is seen as applicable to people throughout the world facing oppression and unfair justice. Yet it is the film and the musical that has achieved this global status – not the book itself. Millions of people have been left in tears by the story of Cosette, Fantine, Valjean and Javert as portrayed in the musical and film. When Colm Wilkinson (the first Jean Valjean) first sang Bring Him Home, there was an awed silence before someone commented that God had been booked to sing the song. Impressario Cameron Mackintosh said that the production was ‘A Dream beyond all Dreams’ and that ‘at the very core of the story is the survival of the human spirit and the music that drives that story. It’s probably the most successful adaptation of any book in the history of music.’ Outside France, far fewer people have read the book as compared to watching the musical adaptation. The amount of philosophy, social thought and politics pervading the book can be off putting – as can the sheer size of the novel. It is recognised as one of the longest novels ever written as it contains 365 chapters spanning more than 1,500 pages. Despite this, Les Miserables has had a significant literary impact, influencing writers like Charles Dickens and Fyodor Dostoevsky. It is this book that is the subject of countless Son et Lumiere productions every year; attracts millions of people into the theatre or cinema; and many more to visit the places and locations linked to the author and the film. None of the sites involved are far apart – it is an area confined to France, the Channel Islands, Belgium, Luxembourg and England. The film itself was shot almost entirely within southern England and involves some of the most stunning locations imaginable such as the Royal Hospital Greenwich, Chatham Historic Dockyard and Bath’s spectacular weir.
Sparkling and witty, the stories of Jane Austen are memorable – especially Pride and Prejudice. Reasons for her popularity are not hard to find. The wit, humour and sparkling comedy have instant appeal, as do the characters – especially Elizabeth and Darcy. She has been credited with creating the modern English novel with its psychological insights, page turning ability, romantic interest and sheer depth of characterisation. Her characters have stayed relevant throughout the generations ensuring that the books have never been out of print The daughter of a clergyman, she was a member of the gentry and able to take part in the social whirl of the time. Although she had many suitors, she never married. Finding a husband proved impossible – due mainly to the fact that the family had no money. Jane was all too well aware of the problems faced by single women of her status in life, and her books reflect this admirably. Her love affair with James Lefoy, an Irish lawyer has been turned into a film: Becoming Jane. Her niece Fanny was told ‘Anything is to be preferred or endured rather than marrying without Affection’. Her early death came just as she was becoming established as a writer. Jane Austen is mostly associated with Bath but her life, books and the location of film and TV productions cover a much wider area. From London to India, from Hampshire to York, Chatsworth to Hollywood – the Jane Austen connections are worldwide. A unique combination of biography and guidebook; this e book tells the story of Jane Austen, her life and work. Some extremely memorable films have been produced especially the BBC adaptation starring Colin Firth and the Bollywood version Bride & Prejudice. It looks at the locations that are associated with her, or with filming. In total nearly one hundred locations are included, each dealt with in considerable detail highlighting appropriate links, history and tourist information. It makes a fascinating read combining a unique guidebook with background information and an introduction to this renowned writer.
Alice in Wonderland has become a byword for the unreal and highly imaginative. It has inspired children, artists, writers, film producers and musicians worldwide. This quintessentially English story has gained global eminence. It is a perennial favourite popular across all ages and cultures. The image of a little blonde haired girl, dressed in a blue dress and white pinafore and hair caught back by band is instantly recognisable as Alice. Other characters too have developed recognisable identities of their own such as the White Rabbit complete with his pocket watch, the Mad Hatter, the Red Queen and the Playing Card soldiers. It is an amazing achievement for a quiet Oxford don who created the stories just to amuse a group of children. Oxford will forever remain the key area associated with Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland. It was here that the story was created on that hot day long ago, when Carroll took the Liddell children for a boat ride along the river. Yet there are many other locations that have a claim to fame, and possess connections to the Alice story. Over the years, Carroll’s work has come under scrutiny. He has been variously described as a frustrated, unmarried clergyman, a talented photographer, a social historian offering insights into Victorian life, and a nonsense writer like Edward Lear, another Victorian writer. Port Meadow is the location of the White Rabbit’s rabbit hole, while nearby is the dark wood ‘where things have no name’ as well as Godstow Lock where Alice first encountered a white rabbit with pink eyes who ran close by, muttering he was late. The treacle well and the pool of tears can also be found near Oxford, the city in which both Alice and Lewis Carroll made their home. Yet there are many other locations that have a claim to fame, and possess connections to the Alice story. Lewis Carroll was born in Daresbury, Cheshire where the church has a beautiful stained glass window featuring the author and his characters. Down in Cornwall, Antony House was used as a setting for Tim Burton’s stunning film Alice in Wonderland, as did Charlestown harbour. While over in North Wales, the Liddell family had a holiday home in Llandudno and there are now special trails that can be followed. This is the story of Lewis Carroll and Alice Liddell – the girl who became better known as Alice in Wonderland. It shows how the story was taken up by theatres, musicians and film companies and looks at the many places, which will remain forever associated with Alice in Wonderland from Oxford to Llandudno, Daresbury to the Isle of Wight. Part biography, part travel guide this book will inform and entertain as well as providing lots of ideas as to where to go to see the places associated with Alice.
Many homes in the UK have gardens, varying from pocket-sized to large estates, and many people now also have access to allotments and community gardens. But how can you make the most of your garden, and where do you start, if, like many people, you have no knowledge of the basics? Gardening A Beginners Guide is packed full of information for every type of beginner gardener, from designing and planting up your garden to gardening indoors, there is something for everyone. Written by an experienced garden journalist, this book is a no-nonsense guide, using common plant names rather than Latin names, and includes a gardeners dictionary to unravel the jargon. There are useful tips to minimise your impact on the environment and use the ecology of your garden to reduce pests instead of resorting to chemicals. With chapters covering vegetables, fruits and herbs, bedding plants, lawn care and propagation this book will be an essential companion for anyone that wants to take up gardening.
Life journey can take us to many places. Walter traveled many paths in his life. He made good and bad choices. His bad choices led to bad consequences. Your life is what you choose it to be. Walter had goals in life. However, his bad choices scattered his dreams. Although, he had constantly said, One day my mom will be proud of me. He exhibited faith and determination. Walter was given a second chance in life. If you have made mistakes in life and given a second chance, take advantage of it. Pressing towards your goals in life will help you achieve your dreams.
Whether you're an experienced gardener or an enthusiastic novice, Angela Youngman's fascinating guide details the extraordinary physical and mental health benefits that can stem from spending time in your garden. Evidencing research that has shown how gardening can help us all to live healthier and happier lives, this insightful book – published by Central YMCA Guides, part of the UK's leading activity for health charity – explains how to make the most of your garden and explores the important safety considerations, exercises and precautions that need to be taken to ensure that you get the most from your outdoor space, without straining a muscle, breaking your back or damaging your knees.With simple to follow warm-up exercises, top tips and step-by-step instructions to help gardeners of all ages to maximise the health benefits of horticultural activity, this is a must read guide for anyone who is keen to mow, dig, prune, cut, plant, strim or water their way to a dream garden and to a healthier, happier lifestyle.
Going for a walk can be great fun, educational and healthy. While adults enjoy walking for its own sake, children need a purpose and to keep their brain and body occupied. This book offers games and activities that can be played either on the move or when having a break.
Are we nearly there yet?' is the most common question asked numerous times throughout a journey when you are travelling with children. This book sets out to provide some simple answers to this age-old problem.
Stevie Rines was truly an unknown angel! He touched the lives of all who knew him. Stevie was stricken with encephalitis and spinal meningitis when he was just a baby. These horrific diseases left him physically and mentally handicapped. He was unable to talk, walk or hear. He was also mentally retarded, or aspecial, a if you will. This book details how this young man overcame all of these obstacles to be a blessing to others. Stevie was also somewhat of a comic. He was always smiling and doing something funny. Angela Melissa Rines tells of how God brought the family through the heartache of losing Stevie and gave them the grace they needed to go on. Angela also includes some of her poetry that helped her to get through the grieving process. Stevie Rines was such a special young man that Angela could not help but to write his story and share it with the world!
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