Top list: Lifestyle and hobby

Britain's best-loved comic genius Stephen Fry turns his celebrated wit and insight to unearthing the real America as he travels across the continent in his black taxicab. Stephen's account of his adventures is filled with his unique humour, insight and warmth in this beautifully illustrated book that accompanies his journey for the BBC1 series.

'Stephen Fry is a treasure of the British Empire.' – The Guardian

Stephen Fry has always loved America; in fact he came very close to being born there. Here, his fascination for the country and its people sees him embark on an epic journey across America, visiting each of its 51 states to discover how such a huge diversity of people, cultures, languages, beliefs and landscapes combine to create such a remarkable nation.

Starting on the eastern seaboard, Stephen zig-zags across the country in his London taxicab, talking to its hospitable citizens, listening to its music, visiting its landmarks, viewing small-town life and America's breath-taking landscapes – following wherever his curiosity leads him.

Stephen encounters unknown mayors, sheriffs, newspaper editors, park rangers, teachers and hobos, bringing to life the oddities and splendours of each locale. He discovers Oklahoma's World Cow Pat Throwing Contest, attends Independence Day Parades, cherry-pie bake-offs, and visits the heartland of the Sioux Nation in South Dakota.

A celebration of the magnificent and the eccentric, the beautiful and the strange, Stephen Fry's In America is our author's homage to this extraordinary country.

Peter Sagan, at just twenty-eight years of age, is already one of cycling's greatest riders of all time. With four Tour de France points jersey victories, three road race world championships, the 2018 Paris-Roubaix, and multiple spring classics among Sagan's palmares, the world of cycling agrees that this intense, yet fun-loving rider is among the most dominant and fun-to-watch riders of his generation.

One long summer. One perfect setting. Can fiction inspire real life…?

Sometimes a book grabs you by the heart and grows to mean everything to you. That’s what Hope Falls is to friends Emily, Rachel and Tori. So, when they get the chance to spend a whole summer at the cottage in Lakeside where the film adaptation was located, they know it is going to be the holiday of a lifetime.

Spending six weeks away will give them a chance to re-evaluate their life choices. For Emily to decide which way her career will go – the safe route, or the more risky creative option? And for Rachel to decide whether to move in with her partner Jeremy. Then Tori has to drop out at the last moment, and her space is offered to another Hope Falls afficionado, Alex.

But when Alex turns out not to be who they expected, the holiday takes an unforeseen turn. And as the summer develops, so does their friendship. Could this be where they uncover their future selves, find love in all its forms and where their lives will change course forever…?

Your favourite authors love Heidi Swain's books:

'A summer delight!' SARAH MORGAN

'A delightfully sunny read with added intrigue and secrets' BELLA OSBORNE

'With heart-warming characters, a gorgeous summer setting, and a great story with secrets aplenty to keep you turning the pages, it's the perfect read to relax and curl up at home with' CAROLINE ROBERTS

'A ray of reading sunshine!' LAURA KEMP

'A lovely, sweet, summery read' MILLY JOHNSON

'An absolutely gorgeous summer tale of love and secrets' RACHAEL LUCAS

“Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat will make you a better cook” (Bon Apetit). Millions of readers and cooks of all levels have radically transformed their skillset thanks to this indispensable cookbook from the chef NPR called “the next Julia Child.”

Transform how you prep, cook, and think about food with this visionary master class in cooking by Samin Nosrat that distills decades of professional experience into just four simple elements—from the woman declared “America’s next great cooking teacher” by Alice Waters.

Featuring more than 100 recipes from Samin and more than 150 illustrations from acclaimed illustrator Wendy MacNaughton! More than 1 million copies sold! Winner of the James Beard Award and IACP Cookbook Award! Perennial New York Times bestseller! Inspiration for the popular Netflix series!

In the tradition of The Joy of Cooking and How to Cook Everything comes Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat, an ambitious new approach to cooking. Chef and writer Samin Nosrat has taught everyone from professional chefs to middle school kids to author Michael Pollan to cook using her revolutionary, yet simple, philosophy. Master the use of just four elements—Salt, which enhances flavor; Fat, which delivers flavor and generates texture; Acid, which balances flavor; and Heat, which ultimately determines the texture of food—and anything you cook will be delicious. By explaining the hows and whys of good cooking, Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat will teach and inspire a new generation of cooks how to confidently make better decisions in the kitchen and cook delicious meals with any ingredients, anywhere, at any time.

Echoing Samin’s own journey from culinary novice to award-winning chef, Salt, Fat Acid, Heat immediately bridges the gap between home and professional kitchens. With charming narrative, illustrated walkthroughs, and a lighthearted approach to kitchen science, Samin demystifies the four elements of good cooking for everyone. Refer to the canon of 100 essential recipes—and dozens of variations—to put the lessons into practice and make bright, balanced vinaigrettes, perfectly caramelized roast vegetables, tender braised meats, and light, flaky pastry doughs.

Destined to be a classic, Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat just might be the last cookbook you’ll ever need.

With a foreword by Michael Pollan.

*Named one of the Best Books of the Year by: NPR, BuzzFeed, The Washington Post, Chicago Tribune, Rachael Ray Every Day, San Francisco Chronicle, Elle.com, Glamour, Eater, Newsday, The Seattle Times, Tampa Bay Times, Tasting Table, Publishers Weekly, and more!*

“A master class in athleticism, resilience, and human potential.” —Hoda Kotb, Today

From the New York Times bestselling author of The Impossible First, an inspiring blend of riveting adventure stories and life-changing wisdom that teaches us how to embark on a transformative one-day journey that will unlock our best lives.

Millions of people dream of living a more fulfilling life, yet many settle for a life of comfortable complacency, allowing excuses and negative thoughts to invade their minds. I don’t have enough time…I don’t have enough money…I’m afraid to fail...I don’t have what it takes—we allow these limiting beliefs to control us.

Now, The 12-Hour Walk provides the inspiration—and catalyst—for getting unstuck and realizing your full potential. Featuring life lessons from explorer, endurance athlete, and entrepreneur Colin O’Brady—whose adventures in such extreme places as Antarctica and the perilous Drake Passage and on the peaks of Mount Everest and K2 have seen him establish ten world records—this book’s vivid narrative and powerful insight will show you how you can embark on your own life-changing journey.

With Colin as your guide, The 12-Hour Walk asks you to invest one day in yourself. By walking alone, unplugging, listening to the voice within, and rewriting the limiting beliefs etched into your psyche, you can break free of the patterns holding you back and learn how to cultivate a “Possible Mindset”—an empowered way of thinking that unlocks a life of limitless possibilities. The reward: being the hero of your own destiny.

In addition to introducing readers to the various breeds and strains of herding dogs in the world, Herding Dogs discusses the working styles, instinct tests, trials and training for all working farm dogs. From the basic skills of stock-dog training to the types of herding styles to the commands used to direct dogs at work, this useful handbook also advise newcomers on how to select the right puppy for a working ranch or hobby farm situation, how to train and acclimate the pup, solving common behavioral problems, feeding working dogs, basic first aid and more.

The witch who can talk to animals meets the witch with a talking cat. What could go wrong?

It's Valentine's Day in Winterspell, but not everyone appears to be feeling the love. And no, I'm not talking about my date-less self.

Instead of being wooed by candlelight, I'm working in a candle shop. Cora Hearth, Winterspell's magical chandler, has teamed up with Sugar Shack to create party favors for the lucky couples, and they're counting on us to spark some magic for their special night.

So, when a thief breaks into my delivery van and swipes the goodies, Cora and I—and her persnickety talking cat—have to join forces to track down the culprit in time to save Valentine's Day.

'A gold mine of surprising insights. Makes you smarter with every page' – James Clear, bestselling author of Atomic Habits

The essential guide to improving your performance, and a powerful argument for how to succeed in any field: develop broad interests and skills while everyone around you is rushing to specialize.

Instant Sunday Times and New York Times Bestseller

Shortlisted for the Financial Times/McKinsey Business Book of the Year Award

A Financial Times Essential Read

From the ‘10,000 hours' rule to the power of tiger parenting, we have been taught that success in any field requires early specialization and many hours of deliberate practice. If you only dabble or delay, you'll never catch up with those who got a head start.

This is completely wrong.

In this landmark book, David Epstein shows you that the way to succeed is by sampling widely, gaining a breadth of experiences, taking detours, experimenting relentlessly and juggling interests – this is the power of developing range.

Studying the world's most successful athletes, artists, musicians, inventors and scientists, Epstein demonstrates why, in most fields. generalists, not specialists are primed to excel.

In the years since its initial release, Range has challenged the status quo, reshaped career paths and changed lives. Listen it to view the world differently.

'I loved Range' – Malcolm Gladwell, bestselling author of Outliers and The Tipping Point

'Fascinating . . . if you're a generalist who has ever felt overshadowed by your specialist colleagues, this book is for you' – Bill Gates

Over the last few years, the quality of hostel accommodation has risen through the roof – so much so that they are now frequently considered to be one of the best options when it comes to comfortable, affordable, and social accommodation.

Hostels not only provide a place to stay on the cheap, but also offer fun activities, new friendships, and new experiences that you will never forget. They offer a unique chance to get to know people from all over the world, from various cultures and different ethnic backgrounds. A way to interact with people in a manner that traditional accommodation simply does not allow. Hostels are no longer strictly for students and money poor backpackers. They are for young couples on a romantic and fun vacation; they are for the older crowd who want to enjoy a positive atmosphere, and they are for the family looking for an affordable holiday. In this book, you will discover: What a hostel truly is How to find the best hostels Tips for staying in a hostel How you can maximize the hostel lifestyle So, what are you waiting for? Unlock an entire world of fun, comfortable, and affordable accommodation, and take your travel to the next level.

HEROES AND UNICORNS AS YOU’VE NEVER SEEN THEM BEFORE. The epic adventure continues . . .

Don’t miss the unputdownable new book in the international bestselling SKANDAR series, for readers ages 9 to 99 and fans of Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, Eragon and Impossible Creatures.

Skandar and the Unicorn Thief was WATERSTONES CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE YEAR 2022 and WINNER OF THE INDIE BOOK AWARDS 2023!

Skandar and the Phantom Rider was one of THE SUNDAY TIMES BEST BOOKS FOR CHILDREN 2023

The Island always wins…

Skandar and his sister Kenna are finally both at the Eyrie, but tensions are high.

To survive their third year of training, Skandar and his friends must complete a series of terrifying trials across the Island’s elemental zones. Friendships, allegiances and rider-unicorn bonds will be pushed to the limit – only the strongest will make it.

Meanwhile Kenna’s forged bond to a wild unicorn has left her alienated and alone. And when a terrible discovery puts the future of the Island in peril, all fingers point in one direction . . . As dark forces assemble, Skandar must decide how far is he willing to go – for Kenna, and for the Eyrie.

Get ready for unlikely heroes, elemental magic, sky battles, ancient secrets and ferocious unicorns in this highly anticipated adventure that will keep you reading after lights out!

Praise for the SKANDAR series:

‘Skandar Smith’s adventures at the Eyrie, a training school for unicorn riders, have made him the most popular children’s fantasy hero since Harry Potter.’- The Daily Telegraph

'Steadman has a vast imagination, her world-building is a joy, the battle scenes are thrilling and her characters charm.' – The Times Children's Book of the Week

‘Pacy, enthralling and epic, a gripping read.’ – Louie Stowell, author of Loki

‘A dazzling feat of imagination. I loved every breathless moment of it!’ – Cat Doyle, author of The Storm Keeper’s Island and co-author of Twin Crowns

‘The best book I’ve ever read.’ – Patrick, age 10

‘My book of the year. Not since Harry Potter have I felt this excited about a series. Readers are sure to be clamouring for the next book. You’ll never look at unicorns the same way again, nor will you want to!’ – Dominique Valente, author of Starfell

‘A magnificent book. I raced through it – at turns enthralled, delighted, amazed. It’s everything I could have wanted and more. No doubt this book is going to fly.’ – Hannah Gold, author of The Last Bear

'Perfect for those who have consumed the Harry Potter books and Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials trilogy and are looking for their next fictional feast.' – The Sunday Times

Reader Reviews:

***** 'Overall amazing in every way.'

***** ‘My daughter has rated them better that Percy Jackson.’

***** ’I don’t know how I’m going to wait for the next one.’

***** ’I have read Harry Potter and I think Skandar is better.’

***** ’Move over Harry Potter there’s a new hero in town!’

*Skandar and the Chaos Trials was the Number 1 bestseller in the UK Nielsen Bookscan chart, 27 April 2024

Michele Graglia left Italy for Miami in 2007 to expand the family business. Caught in a thunderstorm, he ducked into a Johnny Rockets, got scouted by a renowned agent, and walked out a professional model.

An elite modeling career brought expensive cars, penthouses, parties, and celebrities, but his accidental “American Dream” was never his own.

Feeling the emptiness of a shallow, dark lifestyle, Michele set out for adventure and fulfillment, finding it in the unlikeliest place—a book about ultramarathon running.

Within a few short years, his passion and dedication for ultrarunning placed him among the top endurance athletes in the world. Running hundreds of miles in the extremes of the frozen Yukon and the scorching heat of Death Valley, he pushed his body and mind beyond every limit imaginable.

Ultra is not about winning. It’s not about running. It’s a means to return to Nature and a journey to find your purpose, giving your all on the quest for your best self.

As Christmas approaches, Nathalie embraces the wintry charm of the picturesque village of Earlsraven. However, her plans for her first Christmas as the Black Feather's owner didn't include the huge snowman that appears in the car park. The frosty figure adds to the festive ambiance of the pub's decorations so she decides he can stay. But despite the warmth and welcome at Earlsraven's favourite inn, there's a chilling mystery for Nathalie and her cook Louise to solve, as the snowman's appearance heralds nothing but trouble.

About the series: There was nothing in the will about this...

Cottages, English roses and rolling hills: that's Earlsraven. In the middle of it all: the "Black Feather". Not only does young Nathalie Ames unexpectedly inherit this cosy inn from her aunt, she also falls heir to her aunt's secret double life! She solved criminal cases together with her cook Louise, a former agent of the British Crown. And while Nathalie is still trying to warm up to the quirky villagers, she discovers that sleuthing runs in the family.

Six simple steps to the best skin of your life.

Do pores really open and close? Is eye cream necessary? Should you be rubbing snail slime all over your face?

Award-winning journalist Paula Joye is sharing her secrets, so that you too can achieve the inner and outer glow that comes from skin that is clear and healthy. You will learn where to spend and where to save, how to create a routine, and what to do when your skin inevitably changes from age, weather, illness and stress.

The Glow Up cuts through the BS, empowering you to glow at any age and stage in life.

‘I will do to my face whatever Paula Joye tells me to do.’ Mia Freedman

'Navigating the world of skincare can often be confusing. That’s why this book will serve as an invaluable guide, shedding light on skincare and offering valuable insights to help you on your journey to healthy, glowing skin.' Miranda Kerr

In this powerful memoir, now featuring a new preface, Beck Weathers describes not only his escape from hypothermia and the murderous storm that killed eight climbers, but the journey of his life.

The beauty of minimalism isn't in what it takes away. It's in what it gives. In The More of Less, Joshua Becker helps you craft a personal, practical approach to decluttering your home and life.

The powerful story of a 1,000-mile healing walk-from the lochs of Scotland to England's southwest coast-in a remarkable evocation of modern-day Britain.

"Being a refugee is not a choice. Our choice is to die at home or risk death trying to escape." - Yusra Mardini

Yusra Mardini fled her native Syria to the Turkish coast in 2015 and boarded a small dinghy full of refugees bound for Greece. When the small and overcrowded boat's engine cut out, it began to sink. Yusra, her sister and two others took to the water, pushing the boat for three and a half hours in open water until they eventually landed on Lesbos, saving the lives of the passengers aboard.

Butterfly is the story of that remarkable woman, whose journey started in a war-torn suburb of Damascus and took her through Europe to Berlin and from there to the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.

Yusra Mardini is an athlete, one of People magazine’s twenty-five women changing the world, a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador and one of Time Magazine’s thirty most influential teens of 2016.

Simon Marshall, PhD, and Lesley Paterson present an innovative brain training guide that draws from both clinical science and real-world experience with athletes. The Brave Athlete will help you take control of your brain so you can train harder, race faster, and better enjoy your sport.

WANT TO LEARN ITALIAN THE EASIEST AND MOST EXCITING WAY POSSIBLE?

YOU CAME TO THE RIGHT PLACE!

Learning a second language is a great mental exercise if you want to create new neural pathways in your brain, so you can stay quick and sharp. Plus, learning a widely spoken language – Italian in particular – can open up a myriad of new opportunities for you in both life and work.

“Italian Short Stories for Beginners – 5 in 1” harnesses the power of a great tale in fast-tracking your learning process. It has several uniquely structured Italian-to-English short stories that are saturated with over 500 simple, easy-to-digest dialogues and daily used phrases, so you can seamlessly learn the language, even as you drive towards work!

In the stories within, you will see people speaking to each other, going through daily life situations, and using the most common, helpful words and phrases in Italian.

WITH THIS GUIDE, BEGINNERS LIKE YOU WILL:

• Effortlessly learn basic Italian with the help of cleverly structured short stories for beginners

• Quickly absorb Italian terms for possessing common everyday objects

• Cleverly incorporate prepositions and common present tense verbs for any situation

• Easily relay your emotions, questions, likes, and dislikes in Italian anytime, anywhere

• And so much more!

Forget about boring lectures on grammar and endless vocabulary lists. With the help of this book, English speakers like you can easily learn Italian and immerse themselves in it without having to leave the country!

Scroll up, add this Audiobook to your library, and Start Learning Italian Today!

- P.S. Get the first ebook of the series FOR FREE at learnlikenatives.com

Respected running and fitness expert Matt Fitzgerald explains how the 80/20 running program-in which you do 80 percent of runs at a lower intensity and just 20 percent at a higher intensity-is the best change runners of all abilities can make to improve their performance.