Diaries & Memoirs

Mark Agnew was part of the first team to ever kayak the north-west passage - spending 103 days in the Arctic. The infamous route between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans had defeated countless explorers for centuries, and Mark himself had failed two previous expeditions where he attempted to row across the Atlantic. Pushed to the brink, on the verge of turning his back on the adventures that had made him feel alive, he experienced a mental health crisis and almost abandoned the water forever. Charting an inspirational journey from failure to world record breaker, in There Will Be Headwinds Mark reflects on his struggles and reveals the lessons from sports psychology that allowed him to conquer his demons and achieve something truly remarkable. As well as exploring Mark rebuilding himself following his lowest ebb, this is also an astonishing story of ice, suffering and camaraderie. It's a testament to the power of teamwork, determination and ambition - and a celebration of the human spirit of adventure.

A coming-of-age tale that follows its quintessential musical enthusiast narrator from his stormy, blue-collar childhood in Michigan to his striving twenties in 1990s New York and the making of Rent, his first astronomical triumph, and later on the Broadway sensation, Hamilton.

From award-winning journalist Joseph Lee, a sweeping, personal exploration of Indigenous identity and the challenges facing Indigenous people around the world.Before Martha’s Vineyard became one of the most iconic vacation destinations in the country, it was home to the Wampanoag people. Today, as tourists flock to the idyllic beaches, the island has become increasingly unaffordable for tribal members, with nearly three-quarters now living off-island. Growing up Aquinnah Wampanoag, journalist Joseph Lee grappled with what this situation meant for his tribe, how the community can continue to grow, and more broadly, what it means to be Indigenous. In Nothing More of This Land, Lee weaves his own story and that of his family into a panoramic narrative of Indigenous life around the world. He takes us from the beaches of Martha’s Vineyard to the icy Alaskan tundra, the smoky forests of Northern California to the halls of the United Nations, and beyond. Along the way he meets activists fighting to protect their land, families clashing with their own tribal leaders, and communities working to reclaim tradition. Together, these stories reject stereotypes to show the diversity of Indigenous people today and chart a way past the stubborn legacy of colonialism.

“Among the most profound and dazzling debuts I've ever read.” —Kiese Laymon, award-winning author of Heavy: An American Memoir An essay collection from culture critic Lawrence Burney that is a personal and analytical look at his home city of Baltimore, music from throughout the global Black diaspora, and the traditions that raised him.There are moments throughout our lives when we discover an artist, an album, a film, or a cultural artifact that leaves a lasting impression, helping inform how we understand the world, and ourselves, moving forward. In No Sense in Wishing, Lawrence Burney explores these profound interactions with incisive and energizing prose, offering us a personal and critical perspective on the people, places, music, and art that transformed him. In a time when music is spearheading Black Americans’ connection with Africans on The Continent, Burney takes trips to cover the bubbling creative scenes in Lagos and Johannesburg that inspire teary-eyed reflections of self and belonging. Seeing his mother perform as the opening act at a Gil Scott-Heron show as a child inspires an essay about parent-child relationships and how personal taste is often inherited. And a Maryland crab feast with family facilitates an assessment of how the Black people in his home state have historically improvised paths for their liberation. Taking us on a journey from the streets of Baltimore to the concert halls of Lagos, No Sense in Wishing is a kaleidoscopic exploration of Burney’s search for self. With its gutsy and uncompromising criticism alongside intimate personal storytelling, it’s like an album that hits all the right notes, from a promising writer on the rise.

“A beautiful story about an extraordinary mother’s gift of love and hope.” —Jeannette Walls, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Glass Castle From “a writer who’s absolutely going places” (Roxane Gay), a remarkable, inventive debut memoir about a mother-daughter relationship across cycles of poverty, separation, and illness, exploring how we forge identity in the face of imminent loss.When Erika Simpson was growing up, her mother loomed large, almost biblical in her life. A daughter of sharecroppers, middle child of ten, her origin story served as a Genesis. Her departure from home and a cheating husband, pursuing higher education along the way a kind of Exodus. Her rules for survival, often repeated like the Ten Commandments, guided Erika’s own journey into adulthood. And the most important rule? Throughout her life, Sallie Carol preached the power of a testimony—which often proved useful in talking her way out of a bind with bill collectors. But where does a mother’s story end and a daughter’s begin? In this brave, illuminating memoir, Erika offers a joint recollection of their lives as they navigate the realities of destitution often left undiscussed. Her mother’s uncanny ability to endure Job-like trials and manifest New Testament–style miracles made her seem invincible. But while our parents may start out as gods in our lives, through her mother’s final months and fifth battle with cancer, Erika captures the moment you realize they are just people. This gorgeously rendered story of a mother’s life through her daughter’s eyes weaves together a dual timeline, pulling inspiration from both scripture and pop culture as Erika moves through grief to a place of clarity where she can see who she is without her mom—and because of her.

In thoughtful, candid, and often funny vignettes, Hilaria Baldwin reveals the highs, the lows, and the outrageous outtakes from her different and not-so-different life.

BEYOND THE BADGEONE MAN, TWO LIVESStep into the gripping world of law enforcement with Tony Mozingo, a former FBI agent whose journey is interwoven with homespun wisdom learned from his beloved pet companions. This compelling memoir invites you to explore an unexpectedly charming journey from humble beginnings in rural Virginia to the thrilling challenges of FBI life. Mozingo’s story unfolds through riveting narratives and profound reflections. Discover how his profound bond with animals informed his dedicated pursuit of justice against criminals, shaping his understanding of life’s deepest meanings in Beyond the Badge.From the Foreword by Richard K. Lack, FBI Special Agent, Retired Whether Tony was leading a team or working independently, his meticulous attention to detail and innovative problem-solving skills ensured that his contributions were always of the highest quality. His ability to balance a multitude of tasks with grace and efficiency is truly commendable, making him an invaluable asset to the FBI during his years as an active Special Agent.In addition to his professional prowess, Tony possesses unwavering integrity and ethical standards. He navigated the complexities of his field with a strong moral compass, earning the respect and trust of colleagues. I told him I consider this book to be an exposé—so get ready to be exposed to insider information that will have you intrigued and captivated. The animal stories are a delightful bonus. Enjoy!

River Magic: Tales from a Life on 1000 Rivers takes the reader on an amazing global adventure by river. Mark Angelo, one of the world's most acclaimed paddlers and river conservationists, who has paddled more rivers than perhaps anyone on Earth, recounts a selection of his encounters with amazing animals, big fish, unique cultures, and wild rivers. This is a collection of short stories, each captivating and often spellbinding, with a conservation underpinning. The book enables readers of all ages to better appreciate the value and magic of rivers along with the need to better care for them.

I could've died a thousand times. People were out to get me, as they always are when you run the show.It's kind of silly that it's cancer that's going to get me, but now I know the end's not going to come from a sudden bullet to the skull one night, at least I have enough time to tell my story.It's a story that would have had me locked up long ago, if anyone knew I was at the top.It all started innocently enough, with a few smash-and-grabs and some card games, but then moved into armed robbery and then eventually drugs. And that's when things changed. When the money came rolling in. When we would do anything to hold onto power.This is my last confession. A way to atone for what I've done. Let it be a lesson to you.

In my long, adventurous life, I have been through heaven, and hell. Yet, I am still alive and live with hope. Wondering Why? Because I am Iranian! From the dawn of history Iranian women had equal rights with men. They fought in wars, became generals and queens. Iran, during its long history was conquered by Eskandar, the Arabs, the Mongol Genghis Khan and many more. Yet not only its culture and the dignified resilience of its people survived, it acculturated its conquerors. Then, with the passage of time the west's imperialism changed everything, making Iran geographically of paramount importance in their race for dominance. Thus Russia, Britania, later the United States and now China began their so-called diplomatic endeavours to swallow Iran. What they did, how they tried to do it and what is happening now are found in the books I have written. My aim in writing these books is to bring to the awareness of my readers that none of the powerful nations care about democracy nor a peaceful existence in our world. Hence, each nation, should safe-guard its culture, interest, safety with wisdom and without prejudice as we are all children of the same God. Saadi, the renowned Iranian poet says: 'Human beings are part of each other, In, creation, of the same essence. If one is in pain, the others cannot remain painless. If one remains unaffected by other's ache, one cannot be called a human.'

*FROM THE AUTHOR OF THE UKS NO.1 DOG TRAINING BOOK EASY PEASY PUPPY SQUEEZY*Steve is my puppy training prophet and spiritual guide - ADRIAN CHILESDog training genius - EMILIA CLARKEFrom the simple joys of owning his first puppy through to handling security dogs and training owners worldwide, Steve Mann has seen it all. Every day, he witnesses the power of dogs to change lives and help people in all sorts of ways. Now, for the first time, he shares stories from his wide and varied career as the UKs top dog trainer.Meet Pele, the lightning-fast greyhound that refused to chase a mechanical hare.Meet Alfa, Steves beloved German shepherd for whom Steve traded in his car to follow his dream.Meet a dog called ... Dog, who changed Steves life and taught him that laughter is the key to unlock learning.Meet Woofy, who helped a ten-year-old boy (and Steve) overcome anxiety.And three-legged Maggie, who taught Steve that imposter syndrome is the real imposter, and that life is about doing the best you can with what you have.Filled with tales from the frontlines of dog training - discover what Steve learned from the livestock-working dogs of Australia, the body language conversations of desert dogs in the Middle East, and the potential pitfalls of working with dogs on live TV.Chronicling a lifetime spent with dogs, this book takes the reader on a journey from first love, to handling the grief of death, with everything that life throws at you in between. Youll laugh, youll cry, and youll hold your dog just that bit closer.

Brighid 'Biddy' McLaughlin, the acclaimed Irish journalist and storyteller, has endured unthinkable tragedy-the murder of her beloved sister Siobhan and the devastating drowning of her husband. Yet, in the face of overwhelming grief, McLaughlin refuses to be consumed by darkness. From behind the half-door of her enchanting Dalkey cottage, in exquisite and honest prose, McLaughlin reflects upon the cherished memories evoked by the objects surrounding her, carrying the reader along on a journey of grief, resilience and hope. From the delicate Madeleine tray that whispers Siobhan's name to her own folk art illustrations that dance across the pages, McLaughlin's memoir is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of storytelling to heal even the deepest wounds.As the late John B. Keane once remarked, 'Biddy had been a storyteller all her life. In drawings, words and painting, she has captured the tales of common and not-so-common folk caught up in the maelstrom of life.'McLaughlin's memoir celebrates the people, places, and passions that sustained her: her unconventional background, her bohemian friends, her love of art and cooking, and the solace found within the walls of her cottage.Tales of a Patchwork Life is a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration and comfort. It offers a powerful reminder of the extraordinary strength that lies within

The hair-raising tale of adventurer Jules Mountain's bid to cross the Atlantic in a lightweight helicopter with a maximum range of 300 miles.  The only way was over the polar ice cap, which made it more perilous

When Felicity Cloake announced that she was planning her dream cycle around the United States, not everyone shared her excitement. "You'll die," a Californian colleague told her matter of factly. "No one rides a bike round here." Her mum agreed - "you can't go on your own, you'll be murdered." Friends were horrified - "but... what will you eat?"

In, Life Love Death NYPD, the author takes readers on a poignant journey through his early years in the bustling city. From his birth during a record snowstorm in 1947 to his childhood adventures in Manhattan and eventual move to the Bronx, the author shares vivid memories and experiences that put doubt to the meaning of the word "Coincidence" and shaped his upbringing. With a mix of humor, heartache, and resilience, this memoir offers a glimpse into a bygone era and the challenges faced growing up, falling in love, joining the N.Y.P.D. and miraculously escaping death as a result of doing both. Life Love Death NYPD is a touching and nostalgic account of family, community, and the importance of becoming aware of the things unseen. Ignoring them can cost you, and others, your very lives.REQUIRED READING FOR CADETS ATTENDING A LAW ENFORCEMENT ACADEMY

In this intimate, enormously personal memoir, the author, Melissa McKay, guides the reader through a lovingly crafted tale over twenty years in the making: the story of her life. A woman who married her high school sweetheart and raised two children, all while involving herself in her local church community, Melissa takes the time to reflect on her many lived experiences. She details her various struggles and triumphs, from facing family bereavement and trauma, to her long-running battles with depression, to the ups and downs of raising a child on the autism spectrum.Cucumbers in Heaven spins a touching, inspiring yarn, one of family, of faith and love, of struggling against all odds and still coming out the other side, stronger than ever. With its message of self-love, perseverance, and hope, Melissa's journey is one that is guaranteed to stay with you long after you put it down.