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Art & Culture

Culture and art is many things and at Tales you find a wide selection of art and culture books. If you enjoy a trip to the museum or an evening at the theatre this is the place for you. If you are more into architecture or a well written song, fear not you also find books about that. Lastly design and fashion is also part of our art and culture selection, so what are you waiting for? Set your inner creativity free and get inspired by some of the world’s best artists, musicians, designers or architects.
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  • Save 21%
    - Seasonal Stories from Scotland
    by Sam Heughan & Graham McTavish
    £13.49

    The follow up to the quarter of a million-copy selling, Sunday Times and New York Times #1 bestselling, Clanlands. Sam & Graham turn tour guides once again to bring readers more epic tales from Scotland.

  • Save 20%
    by Stephen Fry
    £11.99

    Discover the tales behind the ties in Stephen Fry's witty companion to our most distinguished accessory'A well-tied tie is the first serious step in life' Oscar Wilde'What do ties matter, Jeeves, at a time like this?' 'There is no time, sir, at which ties do not matter' P.G. Wodehouse ________ Every single one of Stephen Fry's ties - whether floral, fluorescent, football themed; striped or spotty, outrageous or simply debonair - tells an intimate tale about a moment in Stephen's life. Inspired by Stephen's hugely popular Instagram posts, this book will feature beautiful, hand-drawn illustrations and photographs to celebrate his expansive collection of man's greatest clothing companion: The Tie, in all its sophisticated glory. Distinctively funny and offering witty asides, facts and personal stories, this book will make the perfect gift for anyone who has ever worn a tie.

  • Save 27%
    by Barack Obama
    £25.49

    THE NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLERTwo long-time friends share an intimate and urgent conversation about life, music and their enduring love of America, with all its challenges and contradictions, in this stunningly-produced expansion of their ground-breaking Higher Ground podcast, featuring more than 350 photographs, exclusive bonus content, and never-before-seen archival material.Renegades: Born in the USA is a candid, revealing, and entertaining dialogue between President Barack Obama and legendary musician Bruce Springsteen that explores everything from their origin stories and career-defining moments to their country's polarized politics and the growing distance between the American Dream and the American reality. Filled with full-colour photographs and rare archival material, it is a compelling and beautifully illustrated portrait of two outsiders-one Black and one white-looking for a way to connect their unconventional searches for meaning, identity, and community with the American story itself. It includes: Original introductions by President Obama and Bruce Springsteen Exclusive new material from the Renegades podcast recording sessions Obama's never-before-seen annotated speeches, including his "e;Remarks at the 50th Anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery Marches Springsteen's handwritten lyrics for songs spanning his 50-year-long career Rare and exclusive photographs from the authors' personal archives Historical photographs and documents that provide rich visual context for their conversation. In a recording studio stocked with dozens of guitars, and on at least one Corvette ride, Obama and Springsteen discuss marriage and fatherhood, race and masculinity, the lure of the open road and the call back to home. They also compare notes on their favourite protest songs, the most inspiring American heroes of all time, and more. Along the way, they reveal their passion for-and the occasional toll of-telling a bigger, truer story about America throughout their careers, and explore how their fractured country might begin to find its way back toward unity.

  • Save 27%
     
    £21.99

    A spellbinding journey through the global history of witchcraft, the third volume in The Library of Esoterica follows this magickal tradition from its ancient roots to its modern incarnations. Through more than 400 artworks, and revelatory essays and interviews with modern practitioners, Witchcraft chronicles a cathartic evolution, from the...

  • Save 20%
    - Slower Ways to See the World
    by John Burns
    £25.49

    The next book in the highly successful Kinfolk series, exploring the art of travel across five continents.

  • Save 14%
    by Schuster & To Be Confirmed Simon
    £9.49 - 21.99

  • Save 29%
    by Ross Halfin
    £28.49

    The authoritative portrait of the bestselling metal classic, with unseen photographs from the recording sessions and toursFollowing its release in August 1991, Metallica's landmark self-titled album--better known by fans as the Black Album--debuted at number one in ten countries and spent four consecutive weeks at the top of the Billboard 200. It has since become one of the bestselling albums of all time, selling more than 35 million copies worldwide, spawning numerous singles and earning various industry accolades, including a Grammy, MTV and American Music Awards. The tour that accompanied it was equally gargantuan, with the band clocking in nearly 300 shows in three years. Official photographer Ross Halfin was in the recording studio with the band and documented the tour that followed. Between 1991 and 1993, he shot thousands of film rolls of the hectic performing schedule and many unique portrait sessions, backstage documentary-style photography, rehearsals, interviews and band meetings. This official Metallica book features many previously unpublished images, with introductions by Ross Halfin, James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, Kirk Hammett, Jason Newsted and Robert Trujillo. Printed with a metallic silver jacket with block-foil lettering, it is an epic celebration of one of rock's greatest creations. Ross Halfin is one of the world's leading photographers and has been photographing Metallica since 1984 and has traveled with the band to every continent and almost every country in the world, covering every aspect of the band's career: in the studio, backstage, on the road and at home. He has photographed almost every major artist and continues to work and travel as first choice photographer for the biggest bands in the world.

  • Save 27%
    by H.P. Lovecraft
    £21.99

    "Antarctica. It is a place of frozen wastes, desolation and things best left forgotten. Presented here is the tale of William Dyer, a professor from Miskatonic University and the leader of an ill-fated expedition to that remove and forlorn continent. Recorded in a series of letters, Dyers tells a scarely believable tale full of anomalous and often horrific events. Dreadful secrets lie beneath the ice, waiting to be discovered. Strange, cyclopean structures squat amidst the mountains towering in the distance, promising only madness to those who dare explore their alien architecture. The Dyer Expedition ventures further than any other before them, and ultimately pays the price for it."--Back cover.

  • Save 14%
    - And Other Comforting Thoughts on Family, Friends, Sex, Love, and More Things That Ruin Your Life
    by Daniel Sloss
    £9.49

  • Save 25%
    by Gideon Schwartz
    £55.99

  • Save 21%
    by Johanna Basford
    £13.49

    From bestselling author Johanna Basford, a stunning new colouring book that invites artists to explore the great indoorsThrough her bestselling colouring books and distinctive illustrations, Johanna Basford's beautiful forests, ocean depths, and hidden magical kingdoms have enchanted millions of people around the world. In this newest work, Basford takes her audience indoors, inviting them to explore the wonders of the worlds within. Hidden within every illustration in Rooms of Wonder is a secret key and a locked door. Find the key, unlock the door and continue to the next room. Discover a busy craft studio, a wizard's workshop, a mouth-watering ice cream parlour and an opulent banquet hall. With hidden treasures, curious spaces and a few enchanted interiors, all you need to do is unlock the first door and begin your magical journey.

  • Save 14%
    by Tui T. Sutherland
    £9.49

    "Peace has come to Pyrrhia... for now. The war between the tribes is finally over, and now the dragonets of the prophecy have a plan for lasting peace: Jade Mountain Academy, a school that will gather dragonets from all the tribes and teach them to live together, perhaps even as friends. Moonwatcher isn't sure how she feels about school, however. Hidden in the rainforest for most of her life, the young NightWing has an awful secret. She can read minds, and even see the future. Living in a cave with dozens of other dragons is noisy, exhausting--and dangerous. In just a few days, Moon finds herself overwhelmed by her secret powers and bombarded by strange thoughts, including those of a mysterious dragon who might be a terrible enemy. And when someone starts attacking dragons within the academy, Moon has a choice to make: Stay hidden and safe? Or risk everything to save her new friends?"--Provided by publisher.

  • Save 25%
    by Michael Darling
    £50.99

    "The essential volume on the great fashion designer, entrepreneur and Louis Vuitton artistic director..."--Provided by publisher.

  • Save 23%
    by Jennette McCurdy
    £15.49

    I'm Glad My Mom Died is a deeply moving and poignant book written by Jennette McCurdy. Published by Simon + Schuster Inc. in 2022, this book belongs to a genre that beautifully blends raw emotions with captivating storytelling. The author, Jennette McCurdy, is known for her ability to weave words into a narrative that touches the heart and provokes thought. In 'I'm Glad My Mom Died', she explores themes of loss, love, and acceptance in a way that is both riveting and relatable. This book not only showcases McCurdy's prowess as a writer but also offers readers a glimpse into her personal journey. A must-read for those who appreciate honest and heartfelt storytelling. Published by the renowned Simon + Schuster Inc., this book is a testament to McCurdy's literary talent and her courage to share her story with the world.

  • Save 24%
    by Quentin Tarantino
    £18.99

  • Save 10%
    by Emily McIntire
    £8.99

    A dark contemporary romance from viral BookTok and USA Today bestselling author Emily McIntire, featuring reimagined characters from popular fairy tales and other stories.***She doesn't belong to him...she belongs to the crown.Prince Tristan Faasa was never destined for the throne. That was always his brother, Michael. The same brother responsible for both Tristan's tormented childhood and the scar that mars his face.When their father dies, Michael is set to assume the throne, and Tristan is set to steal it. The leader of a secret rebellion, Tristan will stop at nothing to end his brother's reign. But when Michael's new betrothed, Lady Sara Beatreaux arrives, Tristan finds himself in the middle of a new kind of war-the kind that begs the question of what's most important: the crown or the woman about to wear it.Sara has one plan. Marry the King and eradicate the Faasa line, even at her own peril. But she never expects the Scarred Prince. He's dangerous. Forbidden. And one of the men she's been sent to kill.But the line between hatred and passion has never seemed so thin, and as secrets come to light, Sara grows unsure of whom she can trust-torn between vengeance and the villain she was never supposed to love.Scarred joins the Never After series as a dark and sexy reimagining of a classic tale, twisting it into an enticing new shape for mature readers.TropesFractured Fairy TaleEnemies to LoversRoyal RomanceForbidden LoveDark RomanceSpicy RomanceBad Boy RomanceThe Never After Series:HookedScarredWretchedTwistedCrossedHexed

  • Save 10%
    by Monica Murphy
    £8.99

    A Million Kisses In Your Lifetime is a captivating novel by Monica Murphy. Published in 2022 by Penguin Books Ltd (UK), this book takes you on an unforgettable journey. As the title suggests, the story is about love, passion, and the countless kisses one experiences in their lifetime. Monica Murphy, renowned for her ability to weave intricate tales of love and passion, does not disappoint in this latest offering. This book is a must-read for anyone who loves a good love story. The genre of the book is romance, which is evident in the intense love scenes and heartwarming moments that fill the pages. Published in 2022, the book is fresh and relevant, dealing with themes that resonate with today's audience. The publisher, Penguin Books Ltd (UK), is known for their high-quality publications, and this book is no exception. It is well-written, engaging, and sure to leave you wanting more. So, if you're looking for a new book to dive into, A Million Kisses In Your Lifetime is the one for you.

  • Save 24%
    by Ben Procter
    £18.99

    Avatar The Way of Water The Visual Dictionary is an exceptional book by Ben Procter. Published by Dorling Kindersley Ltd in 2022, this book is a must-have for all Avatar fans. This visual dictionary takes you on a journey through the world of Avatar, exploring the depths of the Way of Water. It's a riveting read, filled with stunning visuals that bring the story to life. The book is a testament to Procter's talent as an author, and his ability to weave a captivating narrative. If you're a fan of the Avatar series or interested in visual dictionaries, this book is an excellent addition to your collection. Don't miss out on this 2022 publication from Dorling Kindersley Ltd.

  • Save 32%
    by Bridget Foley & Tom Ford
    £68.49

  • Save 31%
    by Sarah J. Maas
    £54.99

    Throne of Glass Box Set (Paperback) by Sarah J. Maas is an extraordinary collection that should not be missed. Published by Bloomsbury UK in 2023, this set is a treasure trove for fans of the fantasy genre. Sarah J. Maas, an acclaimed author, weaves a captivating tale of adventure, intrigue, and magic in her signature style. The Throne of Glass series has been praised for its complex characters, intricate plotlines, and breathtaking world-building. This box set is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the world of Throne of Glass, whether you're a long-time fan or new to the series. Don't miss out on this incredible collection from Bloomsbury UK.

  • Save 23%
    by Anna Kaminski, Lonely Planet, Brendan Sainsbury, et al.
    £15.49

    Lonely Planet Mexico is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Explore the ancient Maya world, go horse-riding through fragrant pine forest, and experience Mexico City's hopping cultural scene; all with your trusted travel companion.

  • Save 14%
    by Sharon Jones
    £9.49

  • Save 24%
    by Nick DiGiovanni
    £18.99

    Knife Drop, a gripping novel penned by the talented Nick DiGiovanni, takes you on a thrilling literary journey. Published by Dorling Kindersley Ltd. in 2023, this book stands as a remarkable addition to the contemporary genre. DiGiovanni's masterful storytelling and unique voice make Knife Drop an unforgettable read. The plot unfolds with a captivating intensity that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The author's knack for creating vivid, relatable characters enhances the immersive experience. Knife Drop is not just a book; it's a journey that transports you into a world where every turn of the page brings a new surprise. Published by Dorling Kindersley Ltd., known for their high-quality publications, this book is a testament to their reputation. Reading Knife Drop is an experience you wouldn't want to miss. Grab your copy today and embark on an unforgettable literary journey.

  • Save 15%
    by Lynette Rice
    £10.99

  • Save 24%
    by Peter Attia
    £18.99

    Outlive is a riveting work of literature penned by the talented Bill Gifford. Published in 2023 by Random House UK Ltd, this book has already made a substantial impact in the literary world. The genre of the book is not easily defined, as it beautifully intertwines various elements to create a unique reading experience. The author's masterful storytelling and richly detailed narrative are sure to captivate readers from the first page to the last. Outlive is more than just a book; it's a journey that explores the human condition in a way that is both insightful and thought-provoking. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a deep and engaging reading experience. Published by Random House UK Ltd, it is a testament to their commitment to bringing quality literature to readers around the world.

  • - The Time-Tested Strategy for Successful Investing
    by Burton G. (Princeton University) Malkiel
    £15.49

    The best investment guide money can buy, with more than 1.5 million copies sold, now fuly revised and updated.

  • Save 15%
    by Kai Bird
    £10.99

    ***SOON TO BE A MAJOR HOLLYWOOD FILM DIRECTED BY CHRISTOPHER NOLAN***WINNER OF THE PULITZER PRIZE FOR NONFICTION 'Reads like a thriller, gripping and terrifying' Sunday TimesPhysicist and polymath, as familiar with Hindu scriptures as he was with quantum mechanics, J. Robert Oppenheimer - director of the Manhattan Project that developed the atomic bomb - was the most famous scientist of his generation. In their meticulous and riveting biography, Kai Bird and Martin J. Sherwin reveal a brilliant, ambitious, complex and flawed man, profoundly involved with some of the momentous events of the twentieth century.

  • Save 20%
    by Bobbie Goods
    £11.99

    Bursting with humor, sweetness, and imagination, How to Draw Super Cute Things with Bobbie Goods shows you how to draw and color everything adorable! Get cozy, grab a pencil and your markers, and draw your own super cute world.

  • Save 15%
    - Elton John Official Autobiography
    by Elton John
    £10.99 - 16.99

    The first and only official autobiography by the much-loved global icon Elton John

  • Save 21%
    by Supreme
    £27.49

    Supreme, a compelling book by the author of the same name, is a unique and captivating read. Published in 2020, this book takes you on a journey that is hard to forget. The genre of the book is not easily defined, as it transcends traditional categories, offering a reading experience like no other. Supreme's writing style is engaging, and his storytelling ability is unparalleled, making this book a must-read. Published by Phaidon Press Ltd, one of the most respected publishers in the industry, Supreme is a book that deserves a place on every bookshelf. The book is written in English, making it accessible to a wide range of readers. Don't miss out on this extraordinary reading experience. Get your copy of Supreme today.

Culture
What defines culture you might ask? The answer is culture is what defines you. It is what makes us humans human and differentiate us from all other species on the planet. Art and culture is what we share with others, whether it is so called high culture or pop culture. High culture is typically associated with the ‘finer’, classical art forms such as opera, classical music, visual art, ballet and plays. Works that often have a certain age and artistic acknowledgement begin it, but fine culture is also sometimes seen as “high-brow” and not something everyone can understand and that’s sad, because culture and cultural books are for everyone no matter the kind. On the other end of the spectrum we have pop culture that typically is associated with more modern, popular and mainstream forms of culture. It can be pop music, cartoons or big blockbuster movies. We have cultural books from each side of the spectrum, but the best thing is that a change between the two concepts is coming and people are more open about mixing high culture and pop culture, because they are not that different at all. The most important thing about culture is that it connects us and is part of who we are. It can create communities and friendships, but also let us reflect upon ourselves. You can get wiser on that topic in some of our selection’s culture books. 

Art
In our selection you find some of the finest art books featuring some of the greatest artists in history and now. Art is a very important part of our culture. In art you have the possibility of getting engrossed in a wonderful painting, a provocative sculpture, a brilliant play or a beautiful ballet. 
In art you can get lost in the most wonderful stories and themes and identify yourself with someone who doesn’t necessarily look and act like you. By experiencing that you improve your ability of empathy. At the same time you can learn about yourself through art and art books especially when it comes to feelings that can be difficult to describe. In art the themes and problematics are universal and that’s why we feel recognized when experiencing a play, listening to a symphony, studying a great painting or reading a good art book. The art books are best enjoyed in a relaxed setting giving the art room to speak. 
Another beautiful thing about art is that it needs interpretation. When a person meets a well painted painting, a classical sculpture, or a provocative installation it makes us reflect about what it means, and what the art will tell us about society, life or yourself. Everyone can get something different out of a good artwork, because it speaks directly to you and functions as a dialog, where you will have to finish the sentence with your interpretation taking our own life and experiences into the artwork.
We also have a lot of artist books. One of the most talented and popular artists right now are the world famous Dane Vilhelm Hammershøi. Hammershøi has a very significant way of painting giving voice to the melankolic side of the world and of us humans. The painter is famous for his artworks of especially white doors in his apartment in Copenhagen. In the paintings Hammershøi plays with light and shadow in a brilliant way giving room to both sides, which also could be seen as a reflection of life that contains both. The motive also makes the art watcher wonder what is on the other side of the doors or corridors making them compose a continuation of the painting. You can read about Hammershøi in an European context in the artist book Hammershoi and Europe

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