Goliarda racconta la sua detenzione a Rebibbia, scuola di vita, vera e propria università che insegna, senza le illusioni e le ipocrisie della vita ordinaria, la dura e autentica dimensione della convivenza umana. Ma in quell’universo freddo e spietato, scopre anche cosa vuol dire solidarietà, calore, amicizia, spontaneità, impossibili nel mondo di fuori dove si è meno liberi e sicuri. Intellettuale libera e anticonformista, Goliarda Sapienza ci offre, con sguardo lucido e penetrante, uno spaccato sorprendente che rovescia tutti i nostri stereotipi su una realtà sconosciuta e per questo tanto piú rivelatrice.

L’università di Rebibbia

La sacerdotessa del rock ripercorre i sentieri che dall'infanzia a Chicago la portano a New York dove incontra Robert Mapplethorpe, fotografo estremo che con lei intreccia un cammino di arte, di devozione e di iniziazione. Insieme scoprono che rock, politica e sesso sono gli ingredienti essenziali della rivoluzione a venire. Il vero collante tra Patti e Robert è l'amicizia. Un'amicizia rara, pura, preziosa. Un patto esplicito di reciproco sostegno, fondato sulla condivisione di sogni, di visioni, di idee. Di arte. La confessione di una delle più grandi protagoniste del rock americano, di un'originale poetessa, di una musa, di una donna che ha saputo vivere ai margini delle convenzioni.

Just kids

Una provocazione, un furto in casa di conoscenti, ecco l’evento che apre a Goliarda Sapienza le porte del carcere romano di Rebibbia. Accolta con sospetto dalle compagne di cella per i mocassini alla moda e la camicetta di seta che indossa, la scrittrice comprende presto, però, che in prigione, dove ipocrisie e illusioni vengono meno, può finalmente essere se stessa.

Le certezze del dubbio

David Sedaris's remarkable ability to uncover the hilarious absurdity teeming just below the surface of everyday life is surpassed only by his ability to make his stories even more hilarious when he reads them aloud. This is the complete recording of Meet David Sedaris Series Five, for Radio 4, and he reads essays from several of his books as well as many brand new diary pieces and extras. The full listing is: Episode 1 The Understudy; Big Boy Episode 2 Stepping Out; The Vigilant Rabbit Episode 3 Leviathan Episode 4 Little Guy, The Ones That Got Away, Now Hiring Friendly People Episode 5 Calypso; Follow Me Episode 6 Loggerheads

Radio 4 series

Meet David Sedaris: Series Five

"I know hardly any other writer who seems to be closer, or more continually close, to the Spirit of Christ Himself." So wrote C. S. Lewis of George MacDonald, the Scottish pastor and novelist who had a profound impact on Lewis’ own literary and spiritual career. Here Lewis gathers 365 of MacDonald’s most inspirational lines, prefacing them with details of the effects MacDonald had on Lewis himself. From “Inexorable Love” to “God at the Door”, MacDonald’s words will edify and uplift, just as they did for C. S. Lewis.

George MacDonald

Edgar Allan Poe was a master of the macabre. He wrote horror stories, mysteries, poems, fiction and non-fiction. He was a master of suspense and the father of the modern detective stories. He had the likes of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Agatha Christie copying his format to create their own stories and is considered one of the most influential writers in history. However, his own untimely demise would prove to be the biggest mystery of all with detectives and fans from around the globe trying to discover what really happened to the master of mystery. And now his legion of fans can find out. Part of Albert Jack's Mysterious World Series

Edgar Allan Poe: The Unexplained Death of the Master of Gothic Horror

In a career that spanned six decades, Eric Rohmer (1920-2010) earned a reputation as one of France’s most incisive, eloquent, and free-spirited film directors. A leading light of the French New Wave, he crafted films of immense beauty and poetry: throughout his career, his work demonstrated a consistency of style and theme, yet retained a freshness and youthful vigour. His first full-length film, The Sign of Leo, was released in 1959, the same year that Jean-Luc Godard and François Truffaut had their filmmaking débuts. Soon after, Rohmer began a project that was to take over ten years to complete - his celebrated series of films, Six Moral Tales, outstanding among which are My Night at Maud’s (1969) and Claire’s Knee (1970). After a brief foray into historical drama, Rohmer began another series of films, Comedies and Proverbs, which occupied him for much of the 1980s. Within this series, Pauline at the Beach (1983) and The Green Ray (1986) took a lighthearted look at the French middle class, broaching subjects such as infidelity and promiscuity in the search for everlasting love. The Comedies and Proverbs were followed in the 1990s by Tales of the Four Seasons, each of the four films dealing with emotional isolation, as the central character tries to cope with a recent crisis. The director’s final three films - The Lady and the Duke (2001), Triple Agent (2004), and The Romance of Astrée and Céladon (2007) - show a surprising diversity in technique, although each is fundamentally concerned with the recurring Rohmeresque themes of love and fidelity. Eric Rohmer’s films, modest as they are, are certain to outlive many of today’s mainstream successes, if only because of the love and wisdom with which they were crafted. Rohmer’s own words, preserved in these interviews that span from 1970 to 2009, reveal a critical, reflective sensibility that thoroughly complements the authorial one visualised in his films.

Interviews with Eric Rohmer

This excellent quick-read biography of the life so far of Prince William and Kate Middleton is a fascinating read, and will make an wonderful addition to the library of any fan of the British Royal Family.  Tracking William's life from birth, through school, the death of his mother Princess Diana, university, his career in the forces, his engagement to Kate and more, it also looks at Miss Middleton's background and is full of interesting facts about their lives.  Containing many colour pictures, this royal mini biography has been specially formatted for today's e-readers and is written by top-selling celebrity biographer Chris Peacock.

Prince William and Kate Middleton

Are you the world’s biggest Blink-182 fan? Do you know everything there is to know about pop-punk’s greatest band? Or are you new to the scene and want to become an instant expert on the band everyone is talking about? Then this is the book for you. Contained within are 101 amazing facts covering everything from the band’s early days through the more difficult times (including the infamous plane crash) right up to their 2016 comeback – although WE all know they never really went away! Amaze yourself and your friends with these handily-packaged facts which are easily organised into relevant categories for maximum enjoyment.

101 Amazing Facts about Blink-182

While imprisoned in Reading Gaol from 1895 to 1897 for homosexual practices, Oscar Wilde wrote "De Profundis", an impassioned letter to his lover, Lord Alfred Douglas. In the first section of the letter, Wilde records his relationship with Douglas in merciless detail; he rails against his lover’s selfishness and extravagance, accuses him of being the agent of Wilde’s destruction, and turns a cold eye on his own behaviour. The letter’s tone changes from bitterness to resignation as Wilde acknowledges his own responsibility for his fate and extends a hopeful offer for a renewed, calmer friendship. First published in 1905 by an arrangement between Oscar Wilde and Robert Ross, who visited Wilde at Reading and later became his literary executor, "De Profundis" is a curious document: part apologia, part aesthetic discourse, part religious testimonial, part retort to religion, a letter that addresses a private recipient and was written for public view, but that despite these layers of performance has a strange inward quality; in reality this is a letter from Wilde to himself.

De Profundis

Do you know how much BTS contribute to the South Korean economy each year? What Spotify record does the band hold? What video game has Jin played since he was five years old? And which alternative stage names did Jungkook consider before settling on the one we all know and love? This fantastic book features more than one hundred facts about BTS, the band that has conquered the world. With the facts separated into chapters for easy reference, you are sure to learn some fascinating new information about your favourite band. So whether you are a long-standing member of the ARMY, or you are only just now getting into the work of Jin, Suga, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V and Jungkook, this is the perfect book for you!

101 Amazing Facts

101 Amazing Facts About BTS

120 million records sold. The world’s biggest selling album of the twenty-first century. Countless awards and accolades. Adele has captured the hearts of millions and this intimate biography tells the astonishing journey of the Queen of Pop. The trademark authenticity of Adele’s songs has been hard earned: she was raised by a single mother and has been tested by bereavements and a string of break-ups. Just when she seemed to have left the pain behind, a harrowing divorce and a career-threatening throat injury brought new darkness and doubt to her doorstep. This book takes you behind the scenes of her highs, her lows and everything in between. Separating the myths from the truth, it examines the real Adele: a shrewd and ambitious star who approaches her career with an iconic blend of tradition and innovation. The superstar is back in the spotlight with a new album and a fresh look. But will Adele ever find happiness, or will she always be followed by what she calls her ‘very dark side’?

Adele

She has sold more than 150 million albums, wowed sell-out audiences around the globe and starred in iconic music videos but Britney Spears’ success has come with an unbearable price tag. This biography uncovers the story of how this church-going girl from the Deep South became an objectified teenage sensation and the princess of pop. It follows her rollercoaster existence from the top of the charts to the despair of a very public mental health crisis. Go behind the scenes of Britney’s battle to free herself from her notorious conservatorship and the impact it had on this highly talented but fragile woman, whose cultural and social influence is fast approaching that of Marilyn Monroe. This book lifts the lid on the controversies that have plagued her life, covers her romances and celebrates her many remarkable triumphs. Along the way, we learn much about show-business and society itself. As she enters her fifth decade in the relentless glare of the spotlight, this is a compelling and intimate portrait of the real Britney and brings her story up to date, revealing what will come next for this fascinating star, who has perfected the art of reinvention.

Britney

120 million records sold. The world’s biggest selling album of the twenty-first century. Countless awards and accolades. Adele has captured the hearts of millions and this intimate biography tells the astonishing journey of the Queen of Pop. The trademark authenticity of Adele’s songs has been hard-earned: she was raised by a single mother and has been tested by bereavements and a string of break-ups. Just when she seemed to have left the pain behind, a harrowing divorce and a career-threatening throat injury brought new darkness and doubt to her doorstep. This book takes you behind the scenes of her highs, her lows and everything in between. Separating the myths from the truth, it examines the real Adele: a shrewd and ambitious star who approaches her career with an iconic blend of tradition and innovation. But will Adele ever find happiness, or will she always be followed by what she calls her ‘very dark side’? Danny White is the author of the international and Sunday Times bestseller 1D: The One Direction Story which has been translated into sixteen languages. He has also written successful biographies of Harry Styles, Rihanna, Ariana Grande, Niall Horan, will.i.am and Johnny Depp.

ADELE: To 30 And Beyond

“Sam Wasson’s supremely entertaining book tracks the ups and downs, ins and outs, of a remarkable career. . . . A marvel of unshowy reportage.”—New York Times The New York Times bestselling author of Fifth Avenue, 5 A.M. and The Big Goodbye returns with the definitive account of Academy Award–winning director Francis Ford Coppola’s decades-long dream to reinvent American filmmaking, if not the entire world, through his production company, American Zoetrope. Francis Ford Coppola is one of the great American dreamers, and his most magnificent dream is American Zoetrope, the production company he founded in San Francisco years before his gargantuan success, when he was only thirty. Through Zoetrope’s experimental, communal utopia, Coppola attempted to reimagine the entire pursuit of moviemaking. Now, more than fifty years later, despite myriad setbacks, the visionary filmmaker’s dream persists, most notably in the production of his decades-in-the-making film and the culmination of his utopian ideals, Megalopolis. As Wasson makes clear, the story of Zoetrope is also the story of Coppola’s wife, Eleanor Coppola, and their children, and of personal lives inseparable from artistic passion. It is a story that charts the divergent paths of Coppola and his cofounder and onetime apprentice, George Lucas, and of their very different visions of art and commerce. And it is a story inextricably bound up in the making of one of the greatest quixotic masterpieces ever attempted, Apocalypse Now, and in what Coppola found in the jungles of the Philippines when he walked the razor’s edge. That story, already the stuff of legend, has never fully been told, until this extraordinary book.

The Path to Paradise

Winner of the Macallan Gold Dagger 2000 for non-fiction Edward Bunker's life is beyond the imaginings of most fiction writers. He was born in Hollywood, California, the son of a stagehand and Busby Berkeley chorus girl, whose early divorce propelled him into a series of boarding homes and military schools. From the age of five he repeatedly ran away, roaming the city streets at night. A proud character, combined with an IQ of 152, resulted in a series of altercations with the authorities. He became the youngest ever inmate of San Quentin at the age of seventeen, and there he learned survival skills and faced down the toughest prisoners in the system. He was befriended by Mrs Louise Wallis, a former star of the silent screen and wife of movie mogul, Hal Wallis, who produced films starring Bogart, Cagney, Edward G. Robinson and George Raft. She introduced Bunker to her circle of friends, including Jack Dempsey, Tennessee Williams, Aldous Huxley and William Randolph Hearst, whose guest he was at San Simeon. A parole violation resulted in a spell crossing America as a fugitive on the FBI's most wanted list. His eventual capture led to Folsom prison. Encouraged by the example of Dostoevsky, Cervantes and Caryl Chessman, and by the kindness of Mrs Wallis, he determined to write his way out of prison. Bunker's first published novel, No Beast So Fierce, viewed by many including Quentin Tarantino as the finest crime novel ever written, changed his fortunes. It was filmed as Straight Time, starring Dustin Hoffman. He published three other novels, The Animal Factory, Little Boy Blue and Dog Eat Dog, (all published by No Exit) in his lifetime, admired by writers as diverse as William Styron and James Ellroy, and another novel, Stark, was discovered in his papers after his death in 2005. Bunker appeared in a score of films, most notably his legendary role as Mr Blue in Reservoir Dogs. This blistering narrative is a memoir like no other.

Mr Blue

Marking the 125th anniversary of Agatha Christie's birth, this new edition offers an informed introductin to the chief proponent of the English village murder mystery. Although she created two enormously popular characters - the Belgian detective Hercule Poirot, and the inquisitive elderly spinster and amateur sleuth Miss Jane Marple of St Mary Mead - it is not generally acknowledged that Agatha Christie wrote in many different genres: comic mysteries (Why Didn't They Ask Evans?), atmospheric whodunits (Murder On The Orient Express), espionage thrillers (N or M?), romances (under the pseudonym of Mary Westmacott), plays (The Mousetrap) and poetry. This guide examines all of Christie's novels and short stories and lists the various TV and film adaptations of her works.

Agatha Christie

'He who thinks freely for himself, honours all freedom on earth.'Stefan Zweig was already an émigré-driven from a Europe torn apart by brutality and totalitarianism-when he found, in a damp cellar, a copy of Michel de Montaigne's Essais. Montaigne would become Zweig's last great occupation, helping him make sense of his own life and his obsessions-with personal freedom, with the sanctity of the individual. Through his writings on suicide, he would also, finally, lead Zweig to his death.With the intense psychological acuity and elegant prose so characteristic of Zweig's fiction, this account of Montaigne's life asks how we ought to think, and how to live. It is an intense and wonderful insight into both subject and biographer.

Montaigne

Has the Spare Truly Found His Own Path? Prince Harry has captivated the world for years, from his rebellious teenage antics to his military service in Afghanistan, and his fairy tale romance with American actress, Meghan Markle. Are you ready to uncover the extraordinary life of Prince Harry, the spare royal who has truly found his own path? In this gripping biography, you'll: - Explore Prince Harry's profound grief over losing his mother, Princess Diana, at a young age and its lasting impact on his psyche. - Learn about the military experience that provided purpose and direction during his struggles with the pomp and protocol of palace life. - Discover the sweet and secretive romance with Meghan that blossomed into a royal, disruptive wedding and breakthrough roles as advocates for mental health. From a lost little boy to a rebellious teen to a committed husband yearning for privacy, Prince Harry’s journey has been extraordinary. Also, gain valuable insights from Prince Harry's memoir, 'Spare.' Has he, at last, found the freedom he craves while still upholding his royal destiny? Click 'Buy Now Button' to delve into the captivating biography of the beloved Prince. Order your copy today!

Prince Harry Biography

In his monumental biography, "Ludwig van Beethoven," Alexander Wheelock Thayer meticulously chronicles the life and work of one of classical music's most renowned composers. Spanning three comprehensive volumes, Thayer employs a rigorous scholarly approach, intertwining detailed historical context with an analytical examination of Beethoven's compositions, influence, and the societal changes of his time. The biography is characterized by Thayer's eloquent prose and incorporation of extensive primary sources, including letters, contemporaneous accounts, and musical critiques, which unfold the complexities of Beethoven's character and creative process. Alexander Wheelock Thayer, an American musicologist and one of the earliest biographers of Beethoven, was profoundly influenced by the Romantic ideals that surrounded him. His academic background and pioneering spirit culminated in a work that not only reflects thorough research but also a deep appreciation for Beethoven's music. Thayer's dedication to capturing the essence of Beethoven's life stemmed from his own passion for the arts and music, coupled with an ambition to provide a definitive account of the composer who shaped Western music. This biography is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of music and biography. Thayer's incisive analysis and rich narrative will appeal to musicologists, historians, and general readers alike, offering an unparalleled glimpse into the life of a genius whose powerful legacy continues to resonate through the ages.

Ludwig van Beethoven (Biography in 3 Volumes)

The nation's best-loved vet looks back at the funniest, most absurd or heart-breaking animal encounters and situations he has been in over his long and highly successful career."My mentor and former boss Alf Wight said that the life of a vet is never dull and how true he was. It is funny looking back that he found fame through his James Herriot books, and now his former surgery and myself have been taken to the nation's heart once again through our show The Yorkshire Vet."It just shows what a nation of animal lovers we are and these past few years have been particularly challenging for all of us with the Coronavirus outbreak. But what it has shown me is the comfort and support our pets give us in times like these. All the same, it was this, along with recent changes to my working life that gave me an opportunity to reflect, so I want to look back at some of my favourite cases and share them with you."

The Tales and Tails of a Yorkshire Vet - All in a day's work for Peter Wright (Unabridged)

The enchanting true story of Stephenie Meyer, the Queen of Twilight. On 2 June, 2003, Stephenie Meyer had a dream that would change her life forever. She dreamt of a young girl and her sparkling vampire lover lying in a field, and that dream became Twilight. Now, her vampire romance novels have become a publishing phenomenon, selling over 70 million books worldwide, and have been translated into 37 difference languages.

Stephenie Meyer, Queen of Twilight

Paul Hollywood is without doubt the man of the moment in British baking. His luxurious dough recipes have been single-handedly responsible for the mass ignition of ovens across the UK since the advent of The Great British Bake Off. Admired for his straight-talking style and amazing technical knowledge, Paul’s judging partnership with Mary Berry has been described as one of television’s best ever.Having suffered a rocky period in the USA - both professionally and personally - Hollywood is now back in England, once again enjoying the astounding success of The Great British Bake Off and his own touring shows. What’s more, with his marriage fully reconciled and his wife Alexandra enjoying cooking success of her own, the sky truly is the limit for Paul Hollywood.But then, he was always destined for great things. Descended from a line of illustrious bakers, Hollywood originally trained as a sculptor, giving him the deftly skilful hands his viewers delight in watching. From kneading dough as a 17-year-old apprentice to his father to working as head baker at the prestigious Dorchester Hotel, his professional career is legendary.For the first time, this compelling biography sheds light on the man behind the counter, from his youth on Merseyside to the sunny climes of Cyprus and beyond. Journalist A S Dagnell delves deep into Paul Hollywood’s story and charts the ingredients that have shaped this enigmatic character into the dazzlingly talented king of British baking.

Paul Hollywood - The Biography

The Twilight Saga may have made ‘R-Patz’ a household name - and earned him a spot on the bedroom walls of teenage girls around the world - but long gone are the days when he was just seen as a (very) pretty face. Named amongst TIME magazine’s 100 Most Influential People, and drawing critical acclaim for recent screen performances, he is carving a formidable reputation as a serious actor, artist and ambassador as well as a sex symbol. Hailed as ‘the next Jude Law’ when the supporting role of Cedric Diggory in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire fell to him, it was only a matter of time before other major productions joined the hunt. But after accepting the offer to play Edward Cullen in the first Twilight movie, Robert couldn’t have dreamt just how far into the spotlight he would be catapulted. The series went on to gross over ?2billion worldwide, and for the heartthrob star of the story, opportunity knocked from every direction. From supporting charities against child trafficking through selling his own artwork, to campaigning to raise awareness of cancer, it’s clear he has a heart of gold to match a jawline of iron. And with critically acclaimed performances in more mature movies like futuristic western The Rover, and an Oscar-bait role as T.E. Lawrence in Queen of the Desert on the horizon, there can be no doubt that Robert Pattinson is set to be the modern-day matinee idol of the decade.

Robert Pattinson - The Biography

There are some names that just fall off the tongue with the lilting promise of great things, and John Ronald Reuel Tolkien (usually abbreviated to JRR Tolkien) is a perfect example. In his own lifetime this softly spoken, pipe smoking, tweed clad Oxford College Professor, the quintessential Englishman, caused a tremendous stir when he wrote first "The Hobbit" and then "The Lord of the Rings". But Tolkien could never have guessed the impact his beloved books would continue to have on future generations of listeners, and since Peter Jackson's wonderful 21st Century movie adaptations filmgoers and even computer gamers as well! Whether JRR would have approved of all this modern technology, is as you are about to discover, debatable. However, the adulation of millions of grateful fans might just have won him over. Most people could tell you that "The Lord of the Rings" was written by JRR Tolkien, but who the man behind the great epic was, few would even be able to hazard a guess. This is due in part to Tolkien's very private nature and the fact that when he died, he was, quite simply, a pleasantly successful English author, no more, no less. Those who loved his books did so with a passion, but there were also plenty of dissenters. The huge cult status of "The Lord of the Rings" did not fully evolve until some years after Tolkien's death and therefore there are few publicity pictures of him, and unlike J K Rowling, (rolling) the world-famous author of the Harry Potter books, JRR Tolkien never became a celebrity. Now, unless your name's Rip Van Winkle and you've been asleep for the last twenty years, even if you've never read "The Lord of the Rings" you'll know it's all about adventure with a capital "A", on an incredible journey of discovery. And that's all the background info you're going to need to enjoy this Tolkien Journal. With the people and places that inspired JRR to write such an incredible piece of fiction this will prove to be an equally enlightening pathway to travel, uncovering a real-life character way more complex than Hobbits, Orcs, Elves, Ents, Dwarves and Wizards put together!

J.R.R. Tolkien: The True Story of the Life and Time of the Great Author

A classic tale of sex, drugs, and rock'n'roll, this heartfelt and searingly honest memoir details the relationship between Tony Wilson (the legendary impresario behind Factory Records, Joy Division, New Order and the Happy Mondays) and his first wife, Lindsay Reade.

Mr Manchester and the Factory Girl

Longlisted for the Baillie Gifford Prize for Non-Fiction Longlisted for the Orwell Prize for Political Writing The Ministry of Truth charts the life of George Orwell's 1984, one of the most influential books of the twentieth century and a work that is ever more relevant in this tumultuous era of 'fake news' and 'alternative facts'. 'Fascinating . . . If you have even the slightest interest in Orwell or in the development of our culture, you should not miss this engrossing, enlightening book.' – John Carey, The Sunday Times George Orwell's 1984 has become a defining narrative of the modern world. Its cultural influence can be observed in some of the most notable creations of the past seventy years, from Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale to the reality TV landmark Big Brother, while ideas such as 'thought police', 'doublethink', and 'Newspeak' are ingrained in our language. In the first book to fully examine the origin and legacy of Orwell's final masterpiece, Dorian Lynskey investigates the influences that came together in the writing of 1984 from Orwell's experiences in the Spanish Civil War and in wartime London to his fascination with utopian and dystopian fiction. Lynskey explores the phenomenon the novel became when it was first published in 1949 and the changing ways in which it has been read over the decades since, revealing how history can inform fiction and how fiction can influence history. 'Everything you wanted to know about 1984 but were too busy misusing the word "Orwellian" to ask.' – Caitlin Moran

The Ministry of Truth

Written with the raw honesty and poignant insight that were the hallmarks of her acclaimed bestseller A Widow’s Story, an affecting and observant memoir of growing up from one of our finest and most beloved literary masters. The Lost Landscape is Joyce Carol Oates’ vivid chronicle of her hardscrabble childhood in rural western New York State. From memories of her relatives, to those of a charming bond with a special red hen on her family farm; from her first friendships to her earliest experiences with death, The Lost Landscape is a powerful evocation of the romance of childhood, and its indelible influence on the woman and the writer she would become. In this exceptionally candid, moving, and richly reflective account, Oates explores the world through the eyes of her younger self, an imaginative girl eager to tell stories about the world and the people she meets. While reading Alice in Wonderland changed a young Joyce forever and inspired her to view life as a series of endless adventures, growing up on a farm taught her harsh lessons about sacrifice, hard work, and loss. With searing detail and an acutely perceptive eye, Oates renders her memories and emotions with exquisite precision, transporting us to a forgotten place and time—the lost landscape of her youth, reminding us of the forgotten landscapes of our own earliest lives.

The Lost Landscape

Joanne Rowling was once a would-be published author like many others - committed and determined. Now J K Rowling is at the heart of a global media phenomenon, wealthier, and more influential and successful than she could possibly have imagined. The Harry Potter novels changed her life, and the landscape of writing, publishing and bookselling for children forever. This unauthorised biography follows the transformation of a lonely single mother into a powerful inspirational businesswoman. J K Rowling's story is one of talent, hard work, self-belief and the transforming power of the imagination. From a remarkable insider perspective Lindsey Fraser tells the amazing tale that began one day on a train, when Rowling had forgotten to pack a pen. . .

JK Rowling and Harry Potter Phenomenom

THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER 'A handsome six footer with a warm and engaging personality, Davie Jones has all it takes to get to the show business heights including . . . talent.' David Bowie at 17 in May, 1964 writing his own press biography. Respected arts commentator Paul Morley, one of the team who curated the highly successful retrospective exhibition for the Victoria & Albert Museum in London, David Bowie Is . . . constructs the definitive story of Bowie that explores how he worked, played, aged, structured his ideas, invented the future and entered history as someone who could and would never be forgotten. Morley will capture the greatest moments of Bowie’s career; from the recording studio with the likes of Brian Eno and Tony Visconti; to iconic live performances from the 1970s, 80s and 90s, as well as the various encounters and artistic relationships he developed with rock luminaries John Lennon, Lou Reed and Iggy Pop. And of course, discuss in detail his much-heralded, and critically-acclaimed comeback with the release of Black Star just days before his shocking death in New York. Morley will offer a startling biographical critique of David Bowie’s legacy, showing how he never stayed still even when he withdrew from the spotlight, how he always knew his own worth, and released a dazzling plethora of mobile Bowies into the world with a bloody-minded determination and a voluptuous imagination to create something amazing that was not there before.

The Age of Bowie

*THE INCREDIBLE STORY BEHIND THE BETTER MAN FILM* 'It's much more interesting to be a little bit broken and talk about your vulnerabilities.' An intimate, funny and frank account of the moments behind the music, the truth behind the headlines and the fascinatingly complicated man behind the imperious entertainer, Robbie Williams. Bestselling author Chris Heath has been working closely with Robbie for many years to create a personal and raw account of fame, fortune, family and music. This vivid and detailed portrait shows the real highs and lows of Robbie's life as he found his way forward, one that is unprecedented in its intimacy and honesty. Long-awaited by millions, Reveal is the uncensored and compelling portrait of Robbie as you've never seen him before.

Reveal: Robbie Williams - As close as you can get to the man behind the Better Man film

This glittering, “wild romp of a story, boldly and beautifully told” (Neal Thompson, author of The First Kennedys) explores the intertwined fates of literary icon Truman Capote and infamous socialite Ann Woodward—featured in the hit TV series Feud: Truman Capote vs. The Swans—sweeping us to the upper echelons of Manhattan’s high society, where falls from grace are all the more shocking. When Ann Woodward shot her husband, banking heir Billy Woodward, in the middle of the night in 1955, her life changed forever. Though she claimed she thought he was a prowler, few believed the woman who had risen from charismatic showgirl to popular socialite. Everyone had something to say about the scorching scandal afflicting one of the most rich and famous families of New York City, but no one was more obsessed with the tale than Truman Capote. Acclaimed for his bestselling nonfiction book In Cold Blood, Capote was looking for new material and followed the scandal from beginning to end. Like Ann, he too had ascended from nobody to toast of the town, but he always felt like an outsider, even among the exclusive coterie of high society women who adored him. He decided the story of Ann’s turbulent marriage would be the basis of his masterpiece—a novel about the dysfunction and sordid secrets revealed to him by his high society “swans”—never thinking that it would eventually lead to Ann’s suicide and his own scandalous downfall. “A 20th-century morality tale of enduring fascination” (Laura Thompson, author of The Heiresses), Deliberate Cruelty is a haunting cross between true crime and literary history that is perfect for fans of Furious Hours, Empty Mansions, and Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.

Deliberate Cruelty

New York Times Bestseller ● Publishers Weekly Bestseller ● Los Angeles Times Bestseller ● Wall Street Journal Bestseller A brilliant, hilarious, and honest essay collection from #1 New York Times bestselling author and YouTube sensation Shane Dawson about how messy life can get when you’re growing up but how rewarding it can feel when the clean-up is (pretty much) done. From his first vlog back in 2008 to his full-length film directorial debut Not Cool, Shane Dawson has been an open book when it comes to documenting his life. But behind the music video spoofs, TMI love life details, and outrageous commentary on everything the celebrity and Internet world has the nerve to dish out is a guy who grew up in a financially challenged but loving home in Long Beach, California, and who suffered all the teasing and social limitations that arise when you’re a morbidly obese kid with a pretty face, your mom is your best friend, and you can't get a date to save your life. In I Hate Myselfie, Shane steps away from his larger-than-life Internet persona and takes us deep into the experiences of an eccentric and introverted kid, who by observing the strange world around him developed a talent that would inspire millions of fans. Intelligent, hilarious, heartbreaking, and raw, I Hate Myselfie is a collection of eighteen personal essays about how messy life can get when you’re growing up and how rewarding it can feel when the clean-up is (pretty much) done.

I Hate Myselfie

Investigator and #1 New York Times bestselling author Ian Halperin pulls back the curtain on America’s notorious Kardashian family’s meteoric rise to fame, and the dark secrets they’ve struggled to hide in Kardashian Dynasty. The Kardashians and Jenners have taken the world by storm, collectively rising to superfame after making their reality show debut on E! with Keeping Up with the Kardashians in 2007. Since then, their family life has remained a constant circus of tabloid headlines, red carpet appearances, branding deals, reality shows and their spinoffs, and a slew of media coverage. And yet, amidst their mega success, the Kardashians have faced a firestorm of negative publicity over the years: particularly over Kris Jenner’s role in the family. As matriarch and momager of the Kardashian clan, Kris has been accused of exploiting her children for fame and money and playing the media like a deck of cards. Based on extensive research, Ian Halperin delivers the salacious details behind the Kardashians’ rise to fame. With revelations exposing the family’s foundation as unstable at best and scandalous at worst, Halperin scrutinizes their self-made multi-million dollar brand and provides an unparalleled glimpse into the events and scandals that have propelled the Kardashians to worldwide celebrity, for better or worse.

Kardashian Dynasty

“Hysterically droll, touching, elegant, and wise—a coming-of-age story from someone who possibly came of age before her parents” (Patricia Marx, New Yorker writer and bestselling author), Trying to Float is a seventeen-year-old’s darkly funny, warmhearted memoir about growing up in New York City’s legendary Chelsea Hotel. Meet the family Rips: father Michael, a lawyer turned writer with a penchant for fine tailoring; mother Sheila, a former model and renowned sculptor who matches her welding outfits with couture; and daughter Nicolaia, a precocious and wry high school student at work on a highly unusual extracurricular activity, an official record of her peculiar childhood. Nicolaia is a perpetual outsider who has struggled to find her place in schools populated by cliquish girls and loudmouthed boys. But at the Chelsea, Nicolaia she has found her tribe. There’s her neighbor Stormé, a tall albino woman who keeps a pink handgun strapped to her ankle; her babysitter, Jade, who may or may not have a second career as an escort; her friend Artie, former proprietor of New York’s most famous nightclubs. The kids at school might never understand her, but as Nicolaia endeavors to fit in, she realizes that the Chelsea’s motley crew could hold the key to surviving the perils of her adolescence. “Nicolaia Rips is an old-soul sophisticate. Trying to Float is like Eloise meets Wes Anderson” (Elle), and not since Holden Caulfield has there been such a fabulously compelling teen guide to New York City. Rips’s debut is “charmingly self-deprecating and very funny…at once highly insightful and deeply familiar” (W Magazine), a triumphant parable for the power of embracing difference in all its forms. Her “engaging story with a big heart…will appeal to adults and teens alike” (Kirkus Reviews, starred review).

Trying to Float

From the founding of the company by her great-grandfather Guccio to the love story of her parents Paolo and Yvonne, through to the many years working in Florence and abroad, Patrizia Gucci retraces the steps of the success of one of the greatest dynasties of Italian entrepreneurship. Personal memories are interwoven with the story behind the creation of models that would go on to become objects idolised all over the world. There is no lack of painful moments, such as the tragic death of her cousin Maurizio, and finally the conflicts that would lead to the sale of the family business. For the first time, a Gucci personally tells the true story of the family that gave birth to one of the most internationally-known Italian brands, synonymous with timeless elegance. And, along the way, also clears up a few things ...  

Gucci

‘Fascinating and authoritative’ The Daily Express Sunday Times bestselling author Sean Smith tells the extraordinary story of a modern cultural icon: Harry Styles. Harry Styles has grown up. The One Direction boy band member so loved by millions has become a truly global superstar – and he’s done it without shouting from the rooftops or displaying a mammoth ego. In this captivating biography for fans from day one as well as a whole new generation, Sean Smith chronicles the development of a thoroughly modern man with boundless charisma who represents a better world devoid of prejudice. Harry’s life changed forever when his mum Anne filled in a form requesting an audition to the X Factor. He left his home in rural Cheshire as a sixteen-year-old and never went back – setting out on a path to become a genuine icon of the age. Harry Styles: the Making of a Modern Man follows his journey, painting a picture of a man who at times remains an enigma while embracing the world he cares about – his family, his friends and lovers, his music, acting and, of course, the world of fashion. Harry is the only British male artist to have his first two albums debut at number one in the US; his movie career is flourishing with starring roles in Don’t Worry Darling and My Policeman and he is the first man to appear solo on the cover of Vogue. A champion of gender fluid fashion he has proved himself to be an inspiring role model in a world where toxic masculinity has no place. In troubling and uncertain times, Harry Styles lives to his own mantra that would benefit us all – ‘Treat People with Kindness.’

Harry Styles

Shakespeare: The Illustrated Edition is an exquisitely illustrated, updated edition of Bill Bryson’s bestselling biography of William Shakespeare that takes the reader on an enthralling tour through Elizabethan England and the eccentricities of Shakespearean scholarship. With more than 100 color and black-and-white illustrations throughout, and updated to include recent discoveries, Shakespeare: The Illustrated Edition evokes the superstitions, academic discoveries, and myths surrounding the life of one of the greatest poets, and makes sense of the man behind the masterpieces.

Shakespeare

Steeped in the chaotic swirl of the Manchester music scene, David Nolan is the critically acclaimed author of Bernard Sumner: Confusion and I Swear I Was There: The Gig That Changed The World. He's also an award-winning former Granada TV producer with 150 television credits to his name including documentaries on the Sex Pistols, The Smiths and Echo and the Bunneymen.

Tony Wilson - You're Entitled to an Opinion But. . .

For the first time, author Sophie Johnson reveals the story behind Miranda's rise to fame. The comedian was born in Torquay in 1972, yet despite graduating in politics from Bristol Polytechnic, she always wanted to be a comedian. Her inspiration includes the likes of Joyce Grenfell and Eric Morecombe. Miranda's story is followed through other TV roles such as The Vicar of Dibley, Nighty Night, Hyperdrive and Not Going Out - before Miranda Hart's Joke Shop was commissioned by BBC Radio 2 and the first episode of her sitcom finally broadcast in November 2009. Miranda Hart is the newest comedy legend to capture the imagination of the public - this is her full, unauthorised story.

Miranda Hart - Such Fun

This insider's account of the lives of Brian Jones, Keith Richard, and Mick Jagger in the sixties and seventies has become legendary in the years since its first publication in 1979. Tony Sanchez worked for Keith Richard for eight years - buying drugs, running errands, and orchestrating cheap thrills - and he records unforgettable accounts of the Stones' perilous misadventures: racing cars along the Cote d'Azur; murder at Altamont; nostalgic nights with the Beatles at the Stones-owned nightclub Vesuvio; frantic flights to Switzerland for blood changes; and the steady stream of women, including Anita Pallenberg, Marianne Faithfull, and Bianca Jagger. Here the Stones as never seen before, cavorting around the world, smashing Bentleys, working black magic, getting raided, having children, snorting coke, and mainlining heroin. Sanchez tells the whole truth, sparing not even himself in the process. With hard-hitting prose and candid photographs, he creates an invaluable primary source for anyone interested in the world's most famous rock and roll band.

Up and Down with The Rolling Stones - My Rollercoaster Ride with Keith Richards

A delightfully comic and touchingly romantic interlude in which Colin Clark describes for the first time what happened between Marilyn Monroe and himself during the missing week in The Prince, the Showgirl and Me. In 1956, fresh from Eton and Oxford, the 23-year-old Colin Clark (son of ‘Lord Clark of Civilisation’, brother of maverick Tory MP and diarist Alan) worked as a humble ‘gofer’ on the set of The Prince and the Showgirl, the film that disastrously united Laurence Olivier with Marilyn Monroe. Forty years on, his diary account was chosen as book of the year by Jilly Cooper, Joan Collins and others. But one week was missing. This is the story of that week, a delicious idyll in which he escorted a Monroe desperate to escape from the pressures of stardom. Her new husband Arthur Miller was away, and the coast was clear for Colin to introduce her to the pleasures of British life. How he ended up sharing her bed is a tale too rich to summarise!

My Week With Marilyn

* Embark on an inspiring journey through the life of Matthew Perry, the beloved actor who captured hearts worldwide as Chandler Bing on the iconic sitcom "Friends." * In this captivating biography, delve into the highs and lows of Perry's remarkable career and personal battles, from his meteoric rise to fame to his courageous journey towards sobriety. * Peeling back the layers of fame and fortune, discover the untold stories behind Perry's charismatic on-screen persona and his relentless pursuit of recovery. * From the laughter of Hollywood sets to the solitude of rehabilitation centers, witness Perry's resilience in overcoming addiction and emerging as a beacon of hope for millions. Through meticulous research and exclusive interviews, this book offers an intimate portrayal of Perry's triumphs and tribulations, shedding light on the complexities of stardom and the power of redemption. Whether you're a die-hard fan or intrigued by tales of resilience, "Matthew Perry: From Sitcom Star to Recovery Icon" is a must-read. Join us in celebrating the indomitable spirit of Matthew Perry as he transforms from a sitcom star into a true recovery icon. Click the Buy Now button and embark on an unforgettable journey of inspiration and transformation.

MATTHEW PERRY BIOGRAPHY

Before Marilyn tells the story of Marilyn Monroe's modelling career, during which time she was signed to the famous Blue Book Agency in Hollywood. The head of the agency, Miss Emmeline Snively, saw potential in the young woman and kept detailed records and correspondence throughout their professional relationship and beyond. On the day of Monroe's funeral, Snively gave an interview from her office, talking about the girl she had discovered, before announcing, rather dramatically, that she was closing the lid on her Marilyn Monroe archive that day – to 'lock it away forever'. This archive was purchased by Astrid Franse, and together with bestselling Marilyn Monroe biographer Michelle Morgan they draw on this collection of never-before-seen documents, letters and much, much more. Before Marilyn explores an aspect of Monroe's life that has never been fully revealed – by charting every modelling job she did, and illustrating the text with rare and unpublished photographs of the young model and her mentor.

Before Marilyn

'I love it! Hilarious and thought-provoking!' - Fearne Cotton 'A sweet sharp read' - Jessie Burton 'A laugh-out-loud funny book.' - Lucy Diamond Marianne Power was stuck in a rut. Then one day she wondered: could self-help books help her find the elusive perfect life? She decided to test one book a month for a year, following their advice to the letter. What would happen if she followed the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People? Really felt The Power of Now? Could she unearth The Secret to making her dreams come true? What begins as a clever experiment becomes an achingly poignant story. Because self-help can change your life – but not necessarily for the better . . . Help Me! is an irresistibly funny and incredibly moving audiobook about a wild and ultimately redemptive journey that will resonate with anyone who’s ever dreamed of finding happiness. Perfect for listeners who enjoyed Everything I know About Love by Dolly Alderton, Mad Girl by Bryony Gordon and Reasons to Stay Alive by Matt Haig.

Help Me!

The extraordinary life and times of Carl Barat, Libertine. READ BY CARL BARAT! READ BY CARL BARAT. From his childhood in suburban Basingstoke, through times of literally being down and out in London and Paris, to success as one of the co-founders of one of Britain's most revered bands, Carl Barat has gone through the glass darkly as bands fell apart around him, friendships faltered and egos and hedonism threatened to pull his life apart. Untitled Autobiography tells his extraordinary story, in themed chapters. Love tells of early, unrequited ardour, first heartache and the enduring feelings he has for his best friend, Pete Doherty. Work details time spent on the night shift in factory jobs; his first taste of the bright lights and big city as an usher in theatreland; of the moment when rock and roll really did become just another chore. London looks at the city that shaped him and helped nurture him as a song writer even as he slept on its streets; Icons his fascination with Sir Alec Guinness, his adoration of David Niven, the affinity he felt for the War Poets; Drugs – well, you can probably guess. Each chapter is chronologically linked by pages from Barat's journal, each recalling a pivotal moment from his life. The Libertines first NME cover in June 2002; their last ever show in Paris just before Christmas in 2004. Walking out on stage with Pete once more at the Hackney Empire in April 2007; touring broken-hearted and solo along America's West Coast in early 2009. His first night onstage at the Riverside Hammersmith, in Sam Shephard's Fool For Love in January 2010. His thoughts on the upcoming Libertines reunion in August 2010. Untitled Autobiography is a revealing and intimate self-portrait, a story of love and fighting and the creativity that came of that, and a fascinating account of the London of the last decade, with The Libertines its beating heart.

Threepenny Memoir

A new biography exploring J.R.R. Tolkien’s wartime experiences and their impact on his life and his writing of The Lord of The Rings.“To be caught in youth by 1914 was no less hideous an experience than in 1939 … by 1918 all but one of my close friends were dead.” So J.R.R. Tolkien responded to critics who saw The Lord of the Rings as a reaction to the Second World War. Tolkien and the Great War tells for the first time the full story of how he embarked on the creation of Middle-earth in his youth as the world around him was plunged into catastrophe. This biography reveals the horror and heroism that he experienced as a signals officer in the Battle of the Somme and introduces the circle of friends who spurred his mythology to life. It shows how, after two of these brilliant young men were killed, Tolkien pursued the dream they had all shared by launching his epic of good and evil. John Garth argues that the foundation of tragic experience in the First World War is the key to Middle-earth’s enduring power. Tolkien used his mythic imagination not to escape from reality but to reflect and transform the cataclysm of his generation. While his contemporaries surrendered to disillusionment, he kept enchantment alive, reshaping an entire literary tradition into a form that resonates to this day. This is the first substantially new biography of Tolkien since 1977, meticulously researched and distilled from his personal wartime papers and a multitude of other sources.

Tolkien and the Great War

In "Robert Louis Stevenson," G.K. Chesterton delivers a profound and engaging exploration of the life and works of one of literature's most beloved authors. Chesterton employs his characteristic wit and incisive analysis to delve into Stevenson's duality as both a dreamer and a realist, examining how these opposing forces shaped his literary creations—from the enchanting worlds of "Treasure Island" to the somber depths of "Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde." The book is imbued with Chesterton's rich prose, reflective commentary, and a keen appreciation for the imaginative spirit, all while situating Stevenson within the broader context of Victorian and Edwardian literature. G.K. Chesterton, a prolific writer, philosopher, and critic, admired Stevenson not only for his storytelling prowess but also for his ability to resonate with the complexities of human nature. Chesterton's own literary journey, marked by paradox and inquiry, was undoubtedly influenced by his encounter with Stevenson's works. Through this tribute, Chesterton's appreciation for Stevenson's ethereal yet grounded worldview emerges, connecting their intellectual legacies. "Robert Louis Stevenson" is highly recommended for anyone seeking to understand the intricate tapestry of literary influences in the late 19th century. Chesterton's contemplative insights invite readers to embrace the wonder of storytelling while considering the profound philosophical undercurrents that characterize Stevenson's oeuvre.

Robert Louis Stevenson

Real Facts is back with another groundbreaking exploration into the life of an icon! In this revolutionary book, you'll step into the mesmerizing world of Marilyn Monroe, discovering truths that have long eluded us. Unearth the secrets behind Marilyn's irresistible allure, exploring: * Hidden Heartaches: Dive into Marilyn's personal struggles and witness the strength that powered her meteoric rise. * Untold Triumphs: Discover Marilyn's unyielding spirit that propelled her beyond the confines of Hollywood stereotypes. * Mysterious Connections: Uncover Marilyn's intriguing relationships with powerful figures, demystifying the blurred lines between fame and intimacy. * Behind the Scenes: Peek into the reality of her glamorous life, separating fact from the fiction that has surrounded her legacy. In this gripping biography, you'll learn how Marilyn Monroe transcended the silver screen to become a symbol of resilience and enduring allure. Don't miss your chance to own this illuminating journey. Click the Buy Now button to get your copy now and discover the real Marilyn!

Marilyn Monroe Biography

An Instant New York Times Bestseller A New York Times Notable Book One of Barack Obama's Favorite Books of 2020 Named One of the Best Books of the Year by: The Washington Post, NPR, Shelf Awareness, Esquire, Electric Literature, Slate, The Los Angeles Times, USA Today, and InStyle A chillingly personal and exquisitely wrought memoir of a daughter reckoning with the brutal murder of her mother at the hands of her former stepfather, and the moving, intimate story of a poet coming into her own in the wake of a tragedy At age nineteen, Natasha Trethewey had her world turned upside down when her former stepfather shot and killed her mother. Grieving and still new to adulthood, she confronted the twin pulls of life and death in the aftermath of unimaginable trauma and now explores the way this experience lastingly shaped the artist she became. With penetrating insight and a searing voice that moves from the wrenching to the elegiac, Pulitzer Prize–winning poet Natasha Trethewey explores this profound experience of pain, loss, and grief as an entry point into understanding the tragic course of her mother’s life and the way her own life has been shaped by a legacy of fierce love and resilience. Moving through her mother’s history in the deeply segregated South and through her own girlhood as a “child of miscegenation” in Mississippi, Trethewey plumbs her sense of dislocation and displacement in the lead-up to the harrowing crime that took place on Memorial Drive in Atlanta in 1985. Memorial Drive is a compelling and searching look at a shared human experience of sudden loss and absence but also a piercing glimpse at the enduring ripple effects of white racism and domestic abuse. Animated by unforgettable prose and inflected by a poet’s attention to language, this is a luminous, urgent, and visceral memoir from one of our most important contemporary writers and thinkers.

Memorial Drive

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Books in category 'Art & Literary Biographies'

Art & Literary Biographies

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