From Bump to Grump: Books:

We all talk about it - why, when we are having a good time, does it go too fast and why do days fly by the older we get? As we know, time can't go any faster, so why does it feel such? This book looks at this feeling and how we can take control back - in other words, it's a self help book. As someone who often thinks about this very subject, just knowing this book existed was a comfort, and I'm positive I'm not alone. Rediscover that life is under your own control.

Here is a book that literally teaches you everything you could ever need to know about its subject. Clear font and an incredibly well set out format make learning a pleasure. This is not just technical stuff either - you find out about getting permissions, insurance, taking control and loads more besides! This really is a find of a book, and we'd love to get our mits on more of the 'how to' range.

This is a very well written book which conjures up a great visual on reading – it has Brit flick written all over it. Set in rural Sussex in 1936, behind the seemingly innocent backdrop is a small world of difference, as Kitty takes on a job as cook for an American. What this book does well is portray the bygone era element to perfection, whilst showing that, as now, the world is a weird and wonderful place. We have a habit of romanticising the past – Bethan Roberts never loses that feel, but captures the reader’s attention with a storyline not as innocent as the cover portrays.

Jane Green rocks, and we haven't come across a book yet I haven't raved about. So it's no surprise that we love this too! The same magic is here, whilst this is more of a mature read in the sense that the main character Nan is a widower living a pretty idyllic life at a beach house. There's still that sassy vibe but it is really refreshing to get something that little bit different. Grab this and enjoy the read.

This book rang a bell with me so true I feel better for reading it. Dealing with the subject of depression in marriage, Alix Chapel's story will doubtless ring true with many people, and provide comfort that there are others out there going through similar. An, of course, as a real life story, there is plenty for any reader, offering real life drama of the most heart wrenching and portraying truly tough times. Thank you Alix for this book, and thanks John Blake for publishing.

If, like us, you are addicted to BBC Two's Great British Menu, you will be hungry for this book. Over 150 recipes from chefs such as Atul Kocchar, Sat Bains, Angela Hartnett and more, this is top class in every respect. With starters such as 'Mousse of Norfolk-Grown Peas, fish dishes such as 'Soused Mackerel', mains like 'Lamb Rack and pan-fried lamb patties' and desserts like 'Kentish Apple Mousse', this is a feast of yummy recipes!

Since I've hit a certain age that's 25 x 2 - 10, I have found myself far more in touch with nature and the earth, growing veg, fruit, herbs the lot, where I had no particular interest before. This fits in the 2008 ethos of organic food, growing your own, saving money in the credit crunch, so this book is just the best for me. Recipes like Shiraz wine jelly, Apricot and red onion relish, Elderflower cordial and Pink Grapefruit marmalade have inspired me beyond belief. The vivid photography helps, and the clear instructions make it all so achievable. I can't wait to get started!

Confession – I have started a vegetable plot, and am becoming increasingly obsessed with it daily. Self sufficiency is a buzz phrase at the moment but Michelin starred chef Paul Merrett has been there, done that, and written about the experience for us. If you pardon the expression, this is a meaty book well worth the cover price. With both his story and recipes, the main thing we got out of it was inspiration. Paul’s clear way is inspiring and we loved the way he was determined to get his children seeing it as a wholly positive step. Whilst I can’t see myself with an allotment, the joy I get daily from just seeing my efforts are still alive is immense, and books like this can only help others come on board too.

What a truly gorgeous book! This is, as the title says, an encyclopaedia, so crammed full of any bit of information you would ever need to know about herbs. The pictures are lush and with sections on growing, designing, preserving and more, this is of interest to anyome, and can inspire green fingers. Any coffee table would be enhanced by this, and it's a heavyweight in more ways than one.

Here is a book where the author is writing from his experience of autism through his Son, but is looking at the condition as a worldwide matter, where differing cultures deal with a similar problem. The book is full of facts and interviews yet portrays an air of hope throughout. What you can also feel, is Grinker’s quench for knowledge in the effort to help his Son. By doing so, he has helped so many others too.

Everyone loves Purple Ronnie, and whether for Fathers Day or just any day, this book will raise a huge smile. Crammed full not only top humour, but the truth too, the text and pictures tell a familiar tale of families all over. For example, “Some Mums can’t bear the idea of their little darlings growing up. Dads can’t wait.” And “Dad’s tummies almost always get bigger after they have children.” Rings true to me!

A Man About a Dog: Euphemisms and Other Examples of Verbal Squeamishness
Nigel Rees

If you love the English language with all it’s quirks and eccentricities, then this is the book for you. We do love such stuff, and this does go into such detail that it may not appeal as a general read. Did you know that “Aunt Flo is Visiting” means it is a woman’s ‘time of the month’ or that “to shoot the moon” is to leave without paying your rent? There are 2467 examples in this book, a fair few which you probably use every day and a fair few which you will adopt into your everyday lingo after reading.

You have to admire people who turn perception into top class wit, of which Andrew Clover is a great example. Parenting is not all “haa-haa hee-hee” – for example, losing ‘bear bear', and buying three replacements, only to lose them too is an exact replica of my two kids, both of whom had strong attachments to the most unlikely of cuddly toys. And the line “she can make anything as long as it involves sellotape” sums up my youngest perfectly. So the genius in this book is that we can all relate to it – parenting isn’t easy, but can be great fun.

Awakening the Entrepreneur Within
Michael E Gerber

RRP £12.99

Publisher: Collins

Stockist: Amazon

For those of us who dream of being our own boss, here is an invaluable piece of kit. What this does is show you how to believe in those dreams and shape them into something tangible. There’s obviously a lot of choice of books out there, but we liked this as it doesn’t preach or appear unrealistic as some can. What you get is common sense advice and someone to refer to 24/7 when we need guidance.

Celtic Cuisine

As a newcomer in general to food originating from Wales, Ireland, Scotland, Brittany, Isle of Man and Cornwall, this book was an absolute revelation. 67 cooks share truly scrumptious recipes which make one of the most mouth watering index pages we have come across. We were particularly impressed by the vegetarian section with flavour combinations oozing out of the pages – Caerphilly and leek pancake dome, and green cabbage with apple and onion are just a couple of examples in this section, but no other section disappoints either.

Collins are pretty much masters of their craft, so we expected great things and got great things from this book. Like most modern technology, the digital camera has many functions, and add t he computer to that, and the possibilities are pretty endless. This book makes the seemingly impossible look achievable, whilst covering the essential basics too. We had this reviewed by someone who’s pretty nifty with a camera already, and they found it absorbing and full of new info – that’s a pretty good recommendation then!

This book is based on a very appealing principle, that is taking one ingredient and showing different ways of cooking. We all buy ingredients on auto pilot which we then don’t use, and this is what Marcus Wareing is hoping to help with. The recipes sound complex and ‘chefy’, but don’t be put off as these recipes are, on the whole, quite manageable and those that are a bit more complex, serve to increase your knowledge and techniques. Our favourite section was the fruit, especially ‘lemons and limes’ – Lemon Meringue Slice, Lemon Olive Oil Cake and Lime Marmalade....heaven.

We loved the ‘Mum’ version, so will the male version be as good? Absolutely! We have to say that some of the contents are inspirational – harness balloon power, create a cloud, and the hilarious ‘puzzling pavement trick’. Everything’s achievable with that magic word ‘effort’, and reading will make you determined to spend more time with your child doing the simper things, yet having brilliant fun!

emotion tied up with the condition. This book tells the story of David, a boy for whom the world is a very different place. As always with Michael O’Mara titles, the story is frank and brutally honest, making it impossible to put down. Through the sorrow comes also joy, and for those in a similar situation, reading this must give comfort that they are not alone. For the outsiders, reading this will hopefully increase understanding of this very complex condition.

I feel old! I can remember a book looking like this in my Dad’s wardrobe, but as we all love nostalgia, this book will bring memories to lots of us. Containing reproductions of Highway Code booklets from the thirties, forties and fifties, you don’t have to remember to enjoy. One of the best features has to be using hand signals in a car – yes, it happened, and we are talking making other road users aware of your next move, not the road rage hand signals of today! The hardback and retro look of the book make it ideal for giving, especially to the car freak or someone old enough to remember (hmmm…)

When Piers Morgan published photos of Iraqi prisoners being abused by British soldiers, nobody quite knew what was to follow. After they were exposed as fakes, Morgan publicly lost his job as editor of the Daily Mirror. More importantly, we realised for the first time that journalistic lines can be crossed in the effort to ensure a scoop, and, ultimately, money. This book would not have been of the same interest a few years ago, but now, makes fascinating reading by questioning what we read and ‘take for granted’ daily. Absorbing, informative and ultimately an enjoyable read, don’t pass this by.

We remember Paul from the TV series ‘The Apprentice’, someone totally driven, yet loveable throughout. Since then, we have seen him on property programmes, so know he knows his stuff. What strikes you first with this book is that on reading, at is as if Paul is talking, as it is written in a straight forward and honest manner. There’s loads of information on being involved in the property business here, and as it’s all backed up by Paul’s experiences, you truly believe in what is written. This adds extra inspiration, and essential reading for somebody considering taking the leap.

For a ‘paperback’, this is a real heavyweight with approximately 300 pages of glossy loveliness. What may first appear as a mantra, is actually just an alternative and beneficial way to eat, using healthy foods to bring benefits that can only be seen by giving it a go. All the theory is well explained and each quirkily titled recipe has a fantastic photo to boot, making it something Kate Magic Wood should be truly proud of.

This is one of the most well written and intelligent reads we have come across. Set in Brixton, the book looks at how hard it is to overcome what’s around you. The language is gripping and real, with the splattering of swearing relevant to scene setting in every way. The book delves deep into the problems that exist, from drugs to gangs, but shows how it is possible to take another route. But don’t think this is a fairy story – this is gritty stuff, but hugely enjoyable. This is talented writing and a bloomin’ good read.

I’m sure we could all do with a good laugh, and here it is. Page after page of mini quotes from our most beloved comedians and celebs will tickle the parts that other books cannot reach. Here’s one that made us chuckle: “You’ve turned into your Dad the day you put aside a thin piece of wood specifically to stir paint with” – Peter Kay.
And there’s more….

This Turkish book has been translated into English, so we can now see why the author is so famous in his own country. The first person writing style and adequate but not over elaborate description make an absorbing read where you feel totally submerged into the narrator’s life. The story is really one about life, and the harsh blows it can give out despite your best efforts. Going from being rich to poor, we see the narrator’s character challenged, and although set in Turkey, the reader can relate to the journey within the context of their own life.

In today’s society, women can be mothers and work too, without necessarily worrying about child care and the associated guilt. Businesses run by mothers are a noughties phenomenon, especially with the internet providing so many opportunities. As well as providing useful advice on from how to get started to how to manage your time when you are an international success, what we really like are the real life case studies included. These are often recognisable names and a real inspiration. Every one has to start somewhere, and this is a good place to start.

Italian food has become part of our culture and we are very aware of the love that the Italians have for what they make. This book traces the history of that passion as far back as the 12th century. As someone with an interest in both history and food, this book satisfies on both levels. A true encyclopaedia of information makes engrossing reading whilst leading to a far greater knowledge and understanding of this much admired food type.

Sometimes you pick up a book simply to get a gist of what it’s about, and hours later, it’s finished. This is a powerful read, telling the real life story of the author. As a youngster, his family life was so full of abuse that he tried to kill his Dad aged 12. Committing such an act led into a spiral of self abuse with drugs and there the story could understandably end. But it doesn’t – Andy turns his life around in a powerful way, making this a truly triumphant read.

As someone who has always dreamt of writing a novel, I would like Shari Low to be my best friend and have her life. Whilst I very much doubt she’d want mine, this book cleverly takes on the theme of the way we believe someone else’s life to be idealistic. Roxy and Ginny are life long friends living very different lives..until they swap. This leads to an avalanche of hilarity, all written in a very noughties, naughty style. I especially love the insertion of text messages, school reports and letters, that paint a picture more than just sentences can do.

As someone with knowledge of living with somebody affected by depression, I read this book with some “insider knowledge”. There is a lot of reading, but nothing to be missed, and you in no way get ‘bogged down’ by the content. With case studies, evidence, methods to help and much more, this is impressive reading. Being written by two people who have suffered gives it an extra trustworthy edge, and you feel like you have a friend in this book – it understands, empathises and strives to help.

If you like chick-lit, prepare to enjoy this, but not compare it, as it has a side that makes it unable to pigeon hole. Take Emily – with seemingly everything perfect, she ditches her boyfriend. But is the grass truly greener? This book has comedy but not forced and is full of interesting, intellectual content. The writing is great and at times genius – “I want us to have three spare kidneys. I want us to have a spare heart”, sums up love perfectly.

If you love literature, the style of writing in this book will engross you from the start. The way of writing makes it incredibly vivid, and you will be taken back to mid-19th century, with a group of people being among the first to travel across the Western Wilderness and the Rocky Mountains. Poe’s writing is full of detail and realism, with an almost haunting diarised format that makes you feel you are witnessing a live event. This edition is a perfect size for reading on the move.

Amy Winehouse is a modern day tragic heroine – with talent beyond belief, but a seeming desire to self destruct, Amy is headline grabbling stuff. A biography of her life to date is bound to have mass appeal, and this one is pretty much slap bang up to date. You can read about her route to stardom from being young, about her recent mega success, and, of course, all about her high profile marriage. This is not a book about revelations, but one that captures all the information it is too hard to keep up with day to day. It also leaves us wondering which side of Amy is the dominant one, and books that leave you questioning have done their job.

Sian Lloyd has been a familiar face on TV for many years, but perhaps what makes this more interesting than it may have been is her recent love life. When her ex boyfriend Lembit Opik started dating one of the Cheeky Girls, Sian was thrown into the limelight in a different way. Now happily married, the book tells the story of her relationship with Lembit, peppered with other relationships and aspects of Sian’s life to hold our interest.

Of course, Beatrix Potter wrote the most beautiful children’s books that are forever with his, but this book will surprise you with all the many varying talents this woman had. With more than a passing interest in animals and nature, she was an expert in fungi and a conservationist, leaving acres of land to the National Trust on her death. This book gives a fascinating insight into the woman, the era, and a truly fascinating life.. Incredibly well written, it is an engrossing read.

The A-Z Guide to Good Mental Health – You don’t have to be famous to have manic depression
Jeremy Thomas and Dr Tony Hughes

Depression is probably our most misunderstood yet very common health problem, yet people still fail to recognise the suffering it can cause, for both sufferer and those around them. With a foreword by Stephen Fry, this book is a literal encyclopaedia of mental health, all written in a clear, frank and often amusing way. Part one is a dialogue between Thomas and his Doctor – this frank ‘conversation’ takes away a lot of the stigma, rips through the jargon, and recreates a normality and acceptance of the condition that is refreshing. Part two is the science, but again, the wit and realism can lift your mood by itself. We feel truly blessed to have come across this book, and can only say that if you know of someone having problems, point them in this direction.

A book like this is one to be treasured and displayed, but most of all read thoroughly from cover to cover. This insight into Tibetan life, as written by someone who spent a year living in a remote village, gives an honest and understanding portrayal of this much in the news part of the world. Of course, being written by someone who grew up in China adds even more depth. The journey was filmed for television, but the book gives the same vibe as if you were watching, the sign of a very well written book.

What a fab book! Whether you’re a student, a novice or just incredibly busy, here’s a book you definitely need on your shelf. There are serious recipes in here, like Dijon Chicken Escalopes in 20 minutes, or Spam Pad Khee Mao, again 20 minutes but the book is about more than recipes alone. Ideas for leftover chicken, helpful tips, and how to stir fry are just a few examples of why this is an invaluable book. Originally written when the author’s Son went to Uni, pack it in their belongings and fingers crossed they take the hint!

Get Out of My Life..But first take me and Alex into town
Tony Wolf & Suzanne Franks

Teens – they are from a different planet altogether. So in the parent v teens battle, who should change their ways in order to make the experience a more enjoyable one? This book encourages parents to show understanding and respect whilst delving into teen related topics. Full of wit, perception and clear ideas on a way forward, we whole heartedly recommend parents of teens (including ourselves) to read this book.

Cristina Odone has a very perceptive eye along with a delightful talent for the tongue-in-cheek. This naturally results in a joy of a book which is slap bang up to date chick lit. Harriet is stuck in her average life, so if the chance comes to grab something different, will she take it? Or if you wait, will happiness and success come knocking anyway? We thoroughly enjoyed every page, and were happy to suffer from jaw ache as it was so funny.

This award winning book is epic in both proportion and readability. It got to the top of the Chinese bestseller chart in 2004, where the tale of differing parts of China was a resounding success. The book cleverly takes Chen Zhen, the image of a modern successful Asian man, and puts him in a remote settlement in Mongolia where they live their lives with and like wolves. As the People’s Republic threaten their chosen existence, the reader becomes involved in a battle of tradition and modernism, regime and freedom. An incredibly well written book which gives a great insight into this complex culture.

It is said that if you can draw on your own life experiences in your writing, that enriches the experience for both writer and reader. McCullers life was full of trauma. These new editions are a welcome re release, each crammed with dramatic and intricate writing which is full of detail and scene setting. The characters are ultimately flawed with ill health a feature, something prominent in McCullers own life. All books explore relationships and emotions in a truly absorbing way, making them compelling reading in our book.

Ok, no bias, but we LOVE Toby Litt’s books. Will this disappoint? Will it heck! Telling the story of life in a Canadian rock band, the clever style of writing keeps it fresh from start to finish. Each chapter is a mini story in itself, meaning this could appeal to those who normally find longer books a struggle. Be prepared for honest language (yes, there is swearing in the world of rock ‘n’ roll) but more than anything, be prepared to be swept away by this fresh, lively read.

This paperback contains a lot of pages for its cover price. Full of the celebs diet plans and secrets, find out how Jennifer Aniston keeps trim, how Geri Halliwell lost pounds and how Jordan lost her baby weight gain, to name only a few. It may not look like a conventional cookbook, but there are plenty of useful recipes in there, making it an interesting and informative read in one.

Mums are masters of entertainment, making up fun things to do with only a seconds thought. This is celebrated in this attractive hardback book that's full of fab things to do. Personally, we can't wait to grow an avocado plant from the stone, and other inspirational ideas include making petal perfume (oh the memories), making bird cake bells and making a turfed head from a pair of tights - honest!

This book is perfect for giving to those we love above all other – grannies. Whether yours is Nanny, Grandma, Nanna etc, this book is full of facts, things to do, stories, self help….lots and lots of different stuff! This isn’t a book that will make the youngest Granny feel aged, but just a book to tell them they’re loved and appreciated.

This is a good book that is fictional but based on a true series of events. It shows some historical relevence and that adds greatly to the enjoyment great to read. The character names can be complex, making it a book to work at, but if you've read previous titles by the same author, you will know that the effort is worthwhile.

Inspirational books can often be among the cheapest and most effective forms of therapy out there, so it might be time for you to give them a second look. Positive thinking and mind over matter has a proven success rate and is easy to achieve. We found this book thought provoking and whilst it may not have always matched our personal views, the blueprint was compelling enough to be uplifting and instigate change. If you feel your life needs an injection of positiveness, or you enjoy a challenging read, this may well be the book for you.

After seeing this on Richard and Judy, Neris and India in tow, we were thrilled to see the very book. This is down to earth, user friendly and the recipes are, well, yummy! Smoked Haddock Muffins, Salmon and Feta bake and Croque Monsieur are an example of what’s on offer. The book itself would enhance any shelf, from the outside to the inside and quite simply, we love it - well worth the cover price.

Food and nutrition are high on the political agenda at the moment, and seemingly always, with so many ideas and statistics being thrown at us, then altered, that we feel guilty eating anything. This book is a breath of fresh air, reminding us that eating can be a pleasure if you go back to the basics of where eating began. The book does not preach, but gets the point across without talking down. This is a wholly interesting read which surely appeals to anyone who feels they are caught in a minefield and can’t get out.

If you were there in the eighties, be prepared to thoroughly enjoy this class read. Not that you need to have been around then – the book is incredibly well written and extremely perceptive. Relationships and behaviour remains similar throughout the decades with just fashion changing. The story takes some dark twists that you truly aren’t expecting and will leave you fully satisfied as a reader.

Do your kids wonder where you get all those well learnt, word perfect phrases? Can you even remember them? This book is crammed full of not only nostalgia, but will also help you to help your kids, and help them to help themselves. Covering subjects like Maths, Geography, English and History, this is not just a good read but actually a fantastic little learning tool also.

This Is one of those quirky books that will keep you engaged for hours. Did you know that a ‘karlakarl’ is a real man in Swedish, or a ‘poppendoktor’ is someone who mends dolls? This is very reminiscent of the TV programme ‘Q.I.’ and strangely enough, the author first became interested when researching for that programme. ‘Toujours Tingo’ comes after the success of ‘The Meaning of Tingo’, and we are sure there are plenty more words out there to make successive volumes.

If horror is your genre, get your mits on this. Masterton has a way of writing that provides constant suspense and stays in the forefront of your thoughts during the time you are reading it. We love the Native American theme which provides a very visual and spookily spiritual backdrop. The main story is about the kidnap of two children but as it’s a horror, we won’t divulge more so as not to spoil the tension.

This is one of those books that make you laugh and smile lots, whilst leaving you amazed at the author’s perception. Each page gives you a snippet of wickedness, accompanied by real life illustration to portray the humour even better. One of our favourites is “If you don’t have a candle, show your respects for Diana by sombrely lighting a gas ring”. Slightly irreverend occasionally, but extremely funny!

WAGS – love them or hate them, they make an ideal subject for chick-lit. There is an obvious tongue in cheek quality to this book with exaggeration evident for comedic effect, but the basic storyline is not far short of the image WAGS like to portray. Tracie Martin is one of the older wives and when she sees the younger ones not taking their WAG role seriously, she decides to write the ultimate guide. This is one of those books you can’t help but read quickly as you’re enjoying it so much.

It isn’t often we get to review an older style of literature so we were interested to get this title. This is a Catherine Cookson style novel where a tough start in life gives way to strength of character as an adult. You clearly see the author’s own life intertwining, with dialect very evident throughout. This is the type of literature my Mum read when I was young and as an avid reader, I used to delve into. As such, it fills you with nostalgia and makes a refreshing change to contemporary fiction.

This is a highly entertaining read, slightly reminiscent in our opinion of a Jilly Cooper novel set around a Women’s Institute, but without the sexual references sustaining the story. There is something about the story which we imagine will ring true with many people. Lizzie’s marriage to Tom continues unhappily until she decides it has to end. This sets of a multitude of tongue in cheek events that will make you chuckle warmly.

Everybody loves a good dose of nostalgia, and it also makes the ideal gift. This title not only contains authentic ration leaflets, but looks the part too. With such reproductions as a leaflet on using up stale bread, recipes for Dripping Cake and Herring Roe Savoury, menus including a dessert of bread, margarine and jam, as well as nutritional information from the time, this is fascinating stuff. We especially love the historical introduction as it pulls all the items together and adds relevancy.

Apparently, in times gone by, perhaps even before TV, families used to spend time doing things together! Joking aside, the modern family struggles to spend a lot of time together, but this book looks at things that at first may make you giggle, then make you feel guilty, then may make you take action to do more things together, be it from the book or not. The stunning cover make this the perfect gift too.

If you like your reading diverse and extremely clever, stop here! The title hides a double meaning – the subject matter is William Shakespeare, set around him making his last will. This calls him to look back on his life, warts and all. Being written in the first person gives it a realism that draws you in, and with so many Shakespearian references intertwined, the whole book is nothing short of genius. Truly well worth every penny!

Book clubs have been a hugely popular phenomenon for many years now and show no sign of wavering, especially with the Richard and Judy TV version bringing it to the masses. This gem of a book is invaluable for any book club member, containing 100 recommended titles covering a wide range of styles. Not only do you get a synopsis of the title, but also advice on discussion points and suggested other reads. If you are in a book club, you’ll know how useful this information is – if you enjoy reading alone, this book can help you discover further reading you’ll enjoy and if you’re not in a book club already, you’ll want to be!

We like to think we’ve got a good sense of humour, and so always enjoy literature that has the ability to make us laugh. Cleverly written and crammed full of chick-lit style humour, the observations on life are spot on, whilst being necessarily exaggerated at times to fit the story. When Carly has the chance to go to LA to try and sell her novel to movie makers, she leaves her busband behind but takes her children. We especially love the role of the children – the easy route would have been to leave them out so as a mother, this makes a warm, refreshing read.

This is one of those wonderful books that answer the theories that you really want to believe, but just seem too good to be true. For example, ‘Do Toilet seats spread germs?’ and ‘Is Yawning Contagious?’ You know the type – you pick them up just for a second, can’t put them down for hours, and have an overwhelming urge to discuss the contents with others. And there are masses of questions that you can find a genuine answer to! A massively interesting read.

Memorabilia is of huge interest, and this book about rationing in World War two is a gem. Michael O’Mara books always bring out titles that would make ideal gifts and this is no exception. The hardback book is reminiscent of books of that era and contains reproductions of genuine World War 2 information leaflets. These make interesting reading, as well as being full of nostalgia to those who can remember. You may also pick up some tips on how to survive on very little and make use of what you have!

Growing up in Yorkshire in the era of radio being king, I knew James Whale as a hugely popular and controversial figure who was revolutionary in terms of local radio and certainly destined to go further. Years later, and now a well known celebrity the country over, this book tells us his story from childhood to now. What we really love, is that the book is scattered with James writing his opinion on controversial subjects such as crime and immigration. This adds to the book as you really get a sense of who James is. This is a very honest read.

Being ethical and fashionable can go hand in hand, and this book shows you how to combine the two. Quite literally everything you need to know is here – where to shop, how to make your own, how to have a green social life….With contributions from people like Katherine Hamnett, Anya Hindmarch and Peaches Geldof, this book has some genuine clout behind it too!

Whilst other countries have placed great emphasis on the care of elderly relatives since time began, in the UK we are not as used to that way of thinking. However, as life expectancy increases, the pressures of looking after an ageing parent can be extremely stressful, whether to do with health, finances or other issues. Books such as these provide much needed advice and support when the time comes – very clearly set out and written so easy to understand, you can immediately find guidance to the topic you need.

Dr Tanya Byron is a very recognisable figure as a parenting expert, and seeing her name on a cover is great endorsement to start with. Parenting is the hardest job we will ever undertake with demands on you 24/7 and inevitable, you don’t always get it right. This book looks at accepting your way of doing things and functioning as a family, touching on incredible amounts of situations we find ourselves in, both inside and outside the family unit. The book is designed to build confidence and we believe achieves that by not being afraid to talk about issues and being written in an open, not critical way.

Here is a weight loss book that’s truly a breath of fresh air! Yes everything is calorie counted, but the emphasis is on enjoying what you eat, indulging in just a slightly different but just as tasty way and being able to smile whilst losing eight. It’s about eating better, and as all the best dieticians say, it’s a long term change that brings the most benefit. The recipes differ in complexity and style and none are day long labour of love. Where it stands out is that it tells you could be going wrong with calories, and how to substitute the massive calorie foods for appealing alternatives. It’s an education and a revelation in one!

When the authors of a book have been through the scenario and actually run a centre for Separated Families, you know you can trust the content and benefit from the knowledge shared. With family separations being part of today’s society, it is important that the children’s lives are affected only in a positive way and this can be achieved. It does, however, take a lot of hard work and this is where the book becomes an invaluable tool in the whole process. There could be a tendency to preach but the book focuses on the positive aspects of working together and shows light at the end of what can seem a very long tunnel. If you are in this situation, it is great to read this book and know that a happy medium can be reached.

This is a great heavyweight book full of quality reading. The various characters are well described and despite being very different, intertwine in the story in a way that makes this thriller speed along. There are relevant, modern references which add a good realism. The plot is detailed and impossible to cram into a review but suffice to say that a mystery cargo is the link. Thoroughly edgy and modern and we especially enjoyed the references to hi-tech gadgetry.

Many parents tell stories to their children and wonder if they could make a fortune by having it published. This book immediately makes clear that the process is far from easy and far from fruitful, ultimately being for the dedicated and skilled. This gives you great confidence in the books contents and author’s knowledge as you know they have your best interests at heart. What follows is a very thorough and highly informative book covering everything you need to know down to agents and piublishing standards. Maybe, just maybe, you have that Harry Potter touch…

I first became aware of Amanda Hamilton’s non-TV persona by watching ‘Spa of Embarrassing Illnesses” where detox, nutrition, exercise and controlling emotions were used to help conditions that traditional medicines weren’t helping with. It was a real eye opener and I was very excited to hear of this book. The 7 day plan is used by Amanda and Sandy with proven success and you can now do at home. Detox is not an easy route and requires dedication but the book is easy to follow and gives an air of confidence that inspires before starting.