History & Society

THE ODYSSEY retold by Geraldine McCaughrean is the epic journey of Odysseus, the hero of Ancient Greece...After ten years of war, Odysseus turns his back on Troy and sets sail for home. But his voyage takes another ten years and he must face many dangers - Polyphemus the greedy one-eyed giant, Scylla the six-headed sea monster and even the wrath of the gods themselves - before he is reunited with his wife and son.The Puffin Classics relaunch includes:A Little PrincessAlice's Adventures in WonderlandAlice's Adventures Through the Looking GlassAnne of Green GablesBlack BeautyHans Andersen's Fairy TalesHeidiJourney to the Centre of the EarthLittle WomenPeter PanTales of the Greek HeroesThe Adventures of Huckleberry FinnThe Adventures of King ArthurThe Adventures of Tom SawyerThe Call of the WildThe Jungle BookThe OdysseyThe Secret GardenThe Wind in the WillowsThe Wizard of OzTreasure Island

The Qur'an is a profound and complex book that was published by Oxford University Press on April 8, 2010. This book, which lacks a specific author due to its divine origins, is a significant religious text that has shaped millions of lives worldwide. It encompasses various genres, including theology, law, morality, and guidance for personal conduct. The Qur'an is a timeless piece of literature that provides historical context, spiritual guidance, and moral teachings. Oxford University Press, a renowned publisher, has ensured that this edition of The Qur'an is of the highest quality, making it a valuable addition to any collection. This book is a must-read for those interested in understanding the principles and teachings of Islam.

Man's Search For Meaning is a compelling and thought-provoking book by Viktor E Frankl. Published by Ebury Publishing in 2011, this book falls under a genre that blends psychology, philosophy, and autobiography. This masterpiece by Frankl encapsulates his experiences as a prisoner in Nazi concentration camps during World War II, and describes his psychotherapeutic method, which involved identifying a purpose in life to feel positive about, and then immersively imagining that outcome. The central theme of the book is that meaning can be found in life in every moment of living; life never ceases to have meaning, even in suffering and death. Ebury Publishing is proud to have this profound and influential book in their collection. Read this book to embark on a journey of self-discovery and enlightenment.

The inspiration behind the HBO series THE PACIFICHere is one of the most riveting first-person accounts to ever come out of World War 2. Robert Leckie was 21 when he enlisted in the US Marine Corps in January 1942. In Helmet for My Pillow we follow his journey, from boot camp on Parris Island, South Carolina, all the way to the raging battles in the Pacific, where some of the war's fiercest fighting took place. Recounting his service with the 1st Marine Division and the brutal action on Guadalcanal, New Britain and Peleliu, Leckie spares no detail of the horrors and sacrifice of war, painting an unsentimental portrait of how real warriors are made, fight, and all too often die in the defence of their country.From the live-for-today rowdiness of Marines on leave to the terrors of jungle warfare against an enemy determined to fight to the last man, Leckie describes what it's really like when victory can only be measured inch by bloody inch. Unparalleled in its immediacy and accuracy, Helmet for My Pillow tells the gripping true story of an ordinary soldier fighting in extraordinary conditions. This is a book that brings you as close to the mud, the blood, and the experience of war as it is safe to come.'Helmet for My Pillow is a grand and epic prose poem. Robert Leckie's theme is the purely human experience of war in the Pacific, written in the graceful imagery of a human being who - somehow - survived' Tom Hanks

On D-Day, Dick Winters took off with 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment and prepared to parachute into German-held north France. Ground troops landing on Utah beach were relying on Easy Company to secure one of the causeways that were vital if the troops were to get off the beaches and reach the solid ground of Normandy. The plane carrying many of the commanding officers was shot down, leaving Dick Winters suddenly in command of his company. But during the drop he, and many of his men, had been separated from his equipment and was unarmed except for a trench knife.In this remarkable World War 2 memoir, Dick Winters tells the tales left untold by Stephen Ambrose in his 1992 epic Band of Brothers. Starting with an account of the gruelling training designed to make the 506th the most elite unit in the US Army, Beyond Band of Brothers is fascinating account of one man's experience of commanding Easy Company from D-Day, to the Battle of the Bulge and into Germany. Dick Winters gives real insight into leadership under the most difficult conditions - every man in the company had been injured by the time they reached Germany - and tells the real story of the Allies' final defeat of Hitler, from the point of view of someone who was really there.

The inspiration behind the HBO series THE PACIFICThis was a brutish, primitive hatred, as characteristic of the horror of war in the Pacific as the palm trees and the islands...Landing on the beach at Peleliu in 1944 as a twenty-year-old new recruit to the US Marines, Eugene Sledge can only try desperately to survive. At Peleliu and Okinawa - two of the fiercest and filthiest Pacific battles of WWII - he witnesses the dehumanising brutality displayed by both sides and the animal hatred that each soldier has for his enemy.During temporary lapses in the fighting, conditions on the islands mean that the Marines often can't wash, stay dry, dig latrines, or even find time to eat. Suffering from constant fear, fatigue, and filth, the struggle of simply living in a combat zone is utterly debilitating.Yet despite horrendous conditions Sledge finds time to keep notes that he would later turn into a book. Described as one of the finest memoirs to emerge from any war, With the Old Breed tells with compassion and honesty of the cruelty, bravery and deaths of the men he fought alongside, and of his own journey from patriotic innocence to battle-scarred veteran.'Eugene Sledge became more than a legend with his memoir, With The Old Breed. He became a chronicler, a historian, a storyteller who turns the extremes of the war in the Pacific - the terror, the camaraderie, the banal and the extraordinary - into terms we mortals can grasp' Tom Hanks

In the tradition of Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee, a stunningly vivid historical account of the forty-year battle between Comanche Indians and white settlers for control of the American West, centering on Quanah, the greatest Comanche chief of them all. Empire of the Summer Moon spans two astonishing stories. The first traces the rise and fall of the Comanches, the most powerful Indian tribe in American history. The second is the epic saga of the pioneer woman Cynthia Ann Parker and her mixed-blood son Quanah, who became the last and greatest chief of the Comanches. Although readers may be more familiar with the tribal names Apache and Sioux, it was in fact the legendary fighting ability of the Comanches that determined just how and when the American West opened up. Comanche boys became adept bareback riders by age six; full Comanche braves were considered the best horsemen who ever rode. They were so masterful at war and so skillful with their arrows and lances that they stopped the northern drive of colonial Spain from Mexico and halted the French expansion westward from Louisiana. White settlers arriving in Texas from the eastern United States were surprised to find the frontier being rolled backward by Comanches incensed by the invasion of their tribal lands. Against this backdrop Gwynne presents the compelling drama of Cynthia Ann Parker, a nine-year-old girl who was kidnapped by Comanches in 1836. She grew to love her captors and became infamous as the "e;White Squaw"e; who refused to return until her tragic capture by Texas Rangers in 1860. More famous still was her son Quanah, a warrior who was never defeated and whose guerrilla wars in the Texas Panhandle made him a legend. S. C. Gwynne's account of these events is meticulously researched, intellectually provocative, and, above all, thrillingly told.

There is a reason why Stephen King is one of the bestselling writers in the world, ever. Described in the Guardian as 'the most remarkable storyteller in modern American literature', Stephen King writes books that draw you in and are impossible to put down.Part memoir, part master class by one of the bestselling authors of all time, this superb volume is a revealing and practical view of the writer's craft, comprising the basic tools of the trade every writer must have. King's advice is grounded in the vivid memories from childhood through his emergence as a writer, from his struggling early career to his widely reported, near-fatal accident in 1999 - and how the inextricable link between writing and living spurred his recovery.

One of the most popular and beloved introductions to the concept of faith ever written, 'Mere Christianity' has sold millions of copies worldwide.The book brings together C.S. Lewis's legendary radio broadcasts during the war years, in which he set out simply to 'explain and defend the belief that has been common to nearly all Christians at all times'.Rejecting the boundaries that divide Christianity's many denominations, 'Mere Christianity' provides an unequalled opportunity for believers and nonbelievers alike to absorb a powerful, rational case for the Christian faith.

The Danes are the happiest people in the world, and pay the highest taxes. 'Neutral' Sweden is one of the biggest arms manufacturers in the world. Finns have the largest per capita gun ownership after the US and Yemen. 54 per cent of Icelanders believe in elves. Norway is the richest country on earth. This book deals with Nordic countries.

This bestselling resource identifies seven common traits that show up again and again among those who have accumulated wealth. The new edition, the first since 1998, includes a new Foreword for the 21st century by Dr. Stanley.

'The best book on the subject I've read. Quite brilliant' Tony Jordan, creator/writer, Life on Mars, HustleWe all love stories. But why do we tell them? And why do all stories function in an eerily similar way? John Yorke, creator of the BBC Writers' Academy, has brought a vast array of drama to British screens. Here he takes us on a journey to the heart of storytelling, revealing that there truly is a unifying shape to narrative forms - one that echoes the fairytale journey into the woods and, like any great art, comes from deep within. From ancient myths to big-budget blockbusters, he gets to the root of the stories that are all around us, every day.'Marvellous' Julian Fellowes 'Terrifyingly clever ... Packed with intelligent argument' Evening Standard 'The most important book about scriptwriting since William Goldman's Adventures in the Screen Trade' Peter Bowker, writer, Blackpool, Occupation, Eric and Ernie

THE SECOND SEX stands, four decades after its first appearance, as the first landmark in the modern feminist upsurge that has transformed perceptions of the social relationship of man and womankind in our time.

The New York Times #1 bestselling book by Pastor Rick Warren that helps you understand the purpose of your life. As one of the best-selling nonfiction books in history, with more than 34 million copies sold, and more than 70 translations available, The Purpose Driven Life is far more than just a book; it's the roadmap for your spiritual journey. A journey that will transform your life."e;Movie stars and political leaders aren't the only ones turning to Rick Warren for spiritual guidance. Millions of people - from NBA and LPGA players to corporate executives to high school students to prison inmates - meet regularly to discuss The Purpose Driven Life.'-TimeIn The Purpose Driven Life you'll find the answers to three of life's most important questions:The Question of Existence: Why am I alive?The Question of Significance: Does my life matter?The Question of Purpose: What on earth am I here for?Living out the purpose you were created for moves you beyond survival or success to a life of significance - the life you were meant to live.You will discover the five benefits of knowing your purpose:It will explain the meaning of your life.It will simplify your life.It will focus your life.It will increase your motivation.It will prepare you for eternity.The Purpose Driven Life is designed to be read in 42 short chapters that will inspire you to stop and realize how God uniquely designed you for a purpose only you can fulfill. It also includes links to 3-minute video introductions to each chapter and a 30 to 40-minute audio Bible study message for each chapter. There are also appendixes including questions for further study and additional resources.Before you were born, God already planned your life. God longs for you to discover the life he created you to live - here on earth, and forever in eternity. Let The Purpose Driven Life show you how.The Purpose Driven Life is available in audio book, ebook, softcover, and hardcover editions. Also available: The Purpose Driven Life video study and study guide, journal, devotional, book for kids, book for churches, Spanish edition, Large Print edition, and more.

A personal and powerful essay from Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, the bestselling author of Americanah and Half of a Yellow Sun, based on her 2013 TEDx Talk of the same name.'I would like to ask that we begin to dream about and plan for a different world. A fairer world. A world of happier men and happier women who are truer to themselves. And this is how to start: we must raise our daughters differently. We must also raise our sons differently...'What does "e;feminism"e; mean today?In this personal, eloquently argued essay - adapted from her much-admired Tedx talk of the same name - Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie offers readers a unique definition of feminism for the twenty-first century, one rooted in inclusion and awareness. Drawing extensively on her own experiences and her deep understanding of the often masked realities of sexual politics, here is one remarkable author's exploration of what it means to be a woman now - an of-the-moment rallying cry for why we should all be feminists.

Written by a neuroscientist, and a "new atheist", this book is suitable for the increasingly large numbers of people who follow no religion, but who suspect that Jesus, Buddha, Lao Tzu, Rumi, and the other saints and sages of history could not have all been epileptics, schizophrenics, or frauds.

The Psychology of Selling is a captivating book penned by Brian Tracy. Published by HarperCollins Focus in 2006, it delves into the intriguing world of sales from a psychological perspective. The book is a must-read for anyone looking to understand the intricacies of selling and the psychological triggers that lead people to purchase. Tracy, a renowned author in the genre of sales and marketing, brilliantly explains the tactics and strategies that can help anyone improve their sales skills. The Psychology of Selling is a testament to Tracy's profound understanding of human psychology and its role in successful selling. HarperCollins Focus, known for publishing insightful and impactful books, has added another gem to their collection with this publication.

The 5 Love Languages is a transformative book penned by the renowned author, Gary Chapman. Published in 2015 by Moody Publishers, this book has captured the hearts of readers worldwide. The genre of the book is self-help, focusing on personal relationships and emotional well-being. Chapman explores the concept of 'love languages,' which are unique ways in which individuals express and interpret love. He provides insightful guidance on understanding your own love language as well as that of your partner. This knowledge can lead to more fulfilling and meaningful relationships. The 5 Love Languages is more than just a book; it's a tool for nurturing your personal growth and enhancing your relationships. Don't miss the chance to learn from Gary Chapman's profound wisdom and experiences.

What if you could combine the agility, adaptability, and cohesion of a small team with the power and resources of a giant organization?When General Stanley McChrystal took command of the Joint Special Operations Task Force in Iraq in 2003, he quickly realized that conventional military tactics were failing. The allied forces had a huge advantage in numbers, equipment and training - but none of the enemy's speed and flexibility.McChrystal and his colleagues discarded a century of conventional wisdom to create a 'team of teams' that combined extremely transparent communication with decentralized decision-making authority. Faster, flatter and more flexible, the task force beat back al-Qaeda.In this powerful book, McChrystal and his colleagues show how the challenges they faced in Iraq can be relevant to any leader. Through compelling examples, the authors demonstrate that the 'team of teams' strategy has worked everywhere from hospital emergency rooms to NASA and has the potential to transform organizations large and small.'A bold argument that leaders can help teams become greater than the sum of their parts' Charles Duhigg, author of The Power of Habit'An indispensable guide to organizational change' Walter Isaacson, author of Steve Jobs

What if we could improve our ability to predict the future? This book offers an insight into what we can learn from this elite group. It also shows the methods used by the superforecasters which enable them to out perform even professional intelligence analysts with access to classified data.

The Culture Map is a riveting book penned by Erin Meyer in 2016. This fascinating read, published by PublicAffairs, U.S., delves into the complexities of global communication in an increasingly interconnected world. Meyer, a renowned expert in her field, explores the invisible boundaries that define our thinking and perceptions. With a keen focus on how the simplest of cultural differences can impact global business, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the nuances of cross-cultural communication. A masterstroke in the genre of intercultural studies, The Culture Map transcends the conventional boundaries of academic literature, offering insightful, practical advice for professionals navigating the global business landscape. This publication from PublicAffairs, U.S., is a testament to Meyer's profound understanding of cultural diversity and its implications in the world of business.

Quality large print typesetting and layout for easy congregational use.

Maybe it was a grandparent, or a teacher or a colleague? Someone older, patient and wise, who understood you when you were young and searching, and gave you sound advice to help you make your way through it? For Mitch Albom, that person was Morrie Schwartz, his college professor from nearly twenty years ago.Maybe, like Mitch, you lost track of this mentor as you made your way, and the insights faded. Wouldn't you like to see that person again, ask the bigger questions that still haunt you? Mitch Albom had that second chance. He rediscovered Morrie in the last months of the older man's life. Knowing he was dying of ALS - or motor neurone disease - Mitch visited Morrie in his study every Tuesday, just as they used to back in college. Their rekindled relationship turned into one final 'class': lessons in how to live.TUESDAYS WITH MORRIE is a magical chronicle of their time together, through which Mitch shares Morrie's lasting gift with the world.Praise for Tuesdays with Morrie: 'This is a true story that shines and leaves you forever warmed by its afterglow' Amy Tan'A moving tribute to embracing life' Glasgow Herald'An extraordinary contribution to the literature of death' Boston Globe 'A beautifully written book of great clarity and wisdom that lovingly captures the simplicity beyond life's complexities' M Scott Peck

Witchcraft is a captivating book penned by the talented Anastasia Greywolf. Published in 2016 by Wellfleet Press, U.S., this book delves into the mystical world of magic and the unknown. The genre of the book is a blend of fantasy and mystery, making it a must-read for those who are intrigued by the supernatural. Greywolf's Witchcraft is not just a book; it's a journey into a world where magic is real and palpable. The author's vivid imagination and eloquent writing will transport you to a realm where witches, spells, and potions are the norm. Whether you're a fan of the genre or new to it, Witchcraft is sure to leave you spellbound. Remember, magic is not just in the story; it's in the words of Anastasia Greywolf.

Donna J. Haraway refigures our current epoch, moving away from the Anthropocene toward the Chthulucene: an epoch in which we stay with the trouble of living and dying on a damaged earth while living with and understanding the nonhuman in complex ways conducive to building more livable futures.

'A hugely enjoyable romp through the pleasures and pitfalls of setting up home in a foreign land' PD Smith, GuardianWhen she was suddenly given the opportunity of a new life in rural Jutland, journalist and archetypal Londoner Helen Russell discovered a startling statistic: the happiest place on earth isn't Disneyland, but Denmark, a land often thought of by foreigners as consisting entirely of long dark winters, cured herring, Lego and pastries.What is the secret to their success? Are happy Danes born, or made?Helen decides there is only one way to find out: she will give herself a year, trying to uncover the formula for Danish happiness. From childcare, education, food and interior design (not to mention 'hygge') to SAD, taxes, sexism and an unfortunate predilection for burning witches, The Year of Living Danishly is a funny, poignant record of a journey that shows us where the Danes get it right, where they get it wrong, and how we might just benefit from living a little more Danishly ourselves.

______________________________________________'The ultimate source of happiness is within us.' DALAI LAMA'We grow in kindness when our kindness is tested.' DESMOND TUTUArchbishop Desmond Tutu and the Dalai Lama have been friends for many, many years.