Brian Williams – författare

At the darkest moment of the year, when the nights seem endless and the days very short, comes that most joyful of festivals. Christmas is a truly magical season, bringing families and friends together to share the much-loved customs and traditions that over the centuries have come to surround this heart-warming and deeply symbolic occasion. Each family has their own personal traditions, and ways they celebrate the special day. Yet underneath the tinsel, fairy lights and wrapping paper are many long-standing traditions that we all know and love.Why do we drag a fir tree inside our house and decorate it? How long Santa has been delivering gifts to good children? What would Christmas be like without mince pies?We owe a lot to the Victorians. They transformed the way Britain celebrated Christmas in the 19th century and we continue with their traditions today. In 1848 a British confectioner by the name of Tom Smith came up with the idea of wrapping sweets inside a package that snapped when pulled apart. It was the Victorians that really centred Christmas round the family, with the eating of a Christmas dinner together, giving gifts and playing games. All these things have become central to a British Christmas Day.

Discover the inspiring story of Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-reigning monarch in British history, in this fascinating kids' biography.At just 25 years of age, Princess Elizabeth succeeded King George VI to the British throne. This compelling book looks at Elizabeth's life, both as a public and private figure. It traces her early years as a princess, her experiences in the women's army during World War II, her coronation, her life as Queen both at home and in the public eye, her death at Balmoral and the events of her funeral. Learn how Elizabeth worked alongside 15 British prime ministers, met leaders from around the world, and remained a stable presence as head of the British royal family.DK Life Stories goes beyond the basic facts to tell the true life stories of history's most inspiring people. Full-colour photographs and hand-drawn illustrations complement age-appropriate, narrative text. Definition boxes, information sidebars, and inspiring quotes add depth, while a handy reference section at the back makes DK Life Stories the one biography series everyone will want to collect.

This is a short, entertaining and illuminating introduction to the history and culture of coffee, from the humble origins of the bean in northeast Africa over a millennium ago, to what it is today, a global phenomenon that is enjoyed around the world. It is the perfect gift for coffee lovers, including chapters on the rise of the coffeehouse, legal bans on coffee, Brazil's domination of the world coffee trade and the birth of the espresso.

1968 was the year when humans first glimpsed the far side of the Moon, but also the year the world was shocked by assassination, by the crushing of hope for reform and by wars that showed no sign of ever ending. To the old there seemed too much change, too quickly, with youth in revolt, though against what no one was entirely sure … ‘Hey Jude’, sang the Beatles, with a refrain that lingered long into the summer night, ‘Don’t make it bad, take a sad song and make it better’...

'[T]here is, as with all the chapters, an excellent set of suggested further reading...' - Management Learning

`Postgraduate students should find this a useful book, since it focuses on issues specific to their requirements. The philosophical underpinnings, methodology and practicalities of research are all discussed within the context of postgraduate research' - International Small Business Journal

This wide-ranging text comprehensively overviews management research and research methodology. The authors take the reader through all the major stages of the research process and introduce the key methods.

After highlighting the different contexts and purposes, strategies and tactics, programmes and processes of management research, the authors provide detailed coverage of the relevant research approaches and methods. They discuss the interrelationship of theoretical and empirical research, and how these apply to practice. The implications of using quantitative and qualitative methods are examined, and practical advice is given on the available analysis techniques and software packages.

'[T]here is, as with all the chapters, an excellent set of suggested further reading...' - Management Learning

`Postgraduate students should find this a useful book, since it focuses on issues specific to their requirements. The philosophical underpinnings, methodology and practicalities of research are all discussed within the context of postgraduate research' - International Small Business Journal

This wide-ranging text comprehensively overviews management research and research methodology. The authors take the reader through all the major stages of the research process and introduce the key methods.

After highlighting the different contexts and purposes, strategies and tactics, programmes and processes of management research, the authors provide detailed coverage of the relevant research approaches and methods. They discuss the interrelationship of theoretical and empirical research, and how these apply to practice. The implications of using quantitative and qualitative methods are examined, and practical advice is given on the available analysis techniques and software packages.

Designed for readers from grade 6 and up, this lavishly illustrated set provides comprehensive coverage of the history of aviation, including space flight, as well as the science and technology on which it depends. Detailed A-Z entries trace the development of human flight from ancient myths and legends through today's space exploration, highlighting scientific discoveries and innovations that made aviation possible."IFlight and Motion" also celebrates the contributions and achievements of the pioneers and visionaries of air and space flight, from inventors and innovators to pilots, astronauts, and cosmonauts. Detailed illustrated diagrams give readers a general understanding of the mechanics of flight and of the physics and technology involved. The set also highlights key air and spacecrafts that have made a unique mark in the history of flight. It features more than 500 full-color and black-and-white photos and illustrations, and also includes a timeline, a listing of museums and exhibits, further reading lists, a comprehensive glossary, and general and subject indexes.

Drawing its inspiration from many spiritual traditions, including Celtic, Native American, East Indian, African, Medieval and Renaissance European, The Light and Shadow Tarotis an innovative collection of potent images and interpretations. The striking black-and-white images stress contrast and balance, resolution and completion, while remaining a strong and workable analogue to the traditional Tarot. Crafted with an enduring and haunting authority, this deck brings to light the shadow side of all of us, an essential part of the creative process that leads to growth, movement, and change." The highly original block prints serve as both works of art and as an illuminating parallel to the accompanying text, which includes a detailed interpretation of each card." 78 cards and 194 page book

The Minchiate is one of the most unique decks ever to emerge from the centuries old Tarot tradition. In the first modern presentation of this divinatory system, artist and writer Brian Williams explains the allegorical, esoteric and symbolic meanings of this expanded deck that, not only includes cards for each of the astrological signs, but also for the four elements and several additional figures in the major arcana. Although those familiar with the traditional Tarot will recognise many of the cards of the Minchiate, even Tarot aficionados will be surprised and delighted by the many striking differences, such as the knights who are now transformed into mythical beasts or the Chariot card on which the armoured warrior has been replaced by a peaceful maiden. Brian Williams' insightful interpretations of the cards, based on his extensive knowledge of the Tarot and Italian history, enable readers to use this deck as a tool for profound self-exploration and transformation. One of the most popular Italian Tarots, the Minchiate served as the basis for many of the famous decks before fading into obscurity during the nineteenth century. Now this important Tarot, reformulated with the author's extensive commentary and subtle interpretations of the original art, is finally again available for modern readers and devotees of the Tarot.

Part of the Professional Policing Curriculum in Practice series, this text covers the important contemporary topic of policing those who may have poor mental health are classed as vulnerable or at risk, which runs throughout the policing curriculum.It examines how policing has evolved when dealing with vulnerable people and covers situations such as county lines, modern slavery and online bullying and harassment. It emphasises the importance of the overall police response as part of a multi-agency approach and promotes the need for individual professional curiosity from police officers. Case studies add to the rich knowledge base provided, and critical questions and examples of evidence-based practice are included to embed understanding and help cement theory. Students will develop their critical thinking abilities and gain the confidence to recognise and deal with the complex issues associated with this topic.

This book is a first course in statistics for students of biology. Most of the examples have an ecological bias, but illustrate principles which have direct relevance for biologists doing laboratory work. The structured approach begins with basic concepts, and progresses towards an appreciation of the needs and use of analysis of variance and regression, and includes the use of computer statistical packages. The work is clearly explained with worked examples of real-life biological problems, and should be suitable for undergraduate students engaged in quantitative biological work. Biostatistics should give students a sound grasp of the key principles of biological statistics without overwhelming detail, and should allow students to quickly apply techniques to their own work and data.

This book is a first course in statistics for students of biology. Most of the examples have an ecological bias, but illustrate principles which have direct relevance for biologists doing laboratory work. The structured approach begins with basic concepts, and progresses towards an appreciation of the needs and use of analysis of variance and regression, and includes the use of computer statistical packages. The work is clearly explained with worked examples of real-life biological problems, and should be suitable for undergraduate students engaged in quantitative biological work. Biostatistics should give students a sound grasp of the key principles of biological statistics without overwhelming detail, and should allow students to quickly apply techniques to their own work and data.

This is the first book to cover comprehensively and accessibly the area of applied criminology. It draws together leading experts with experience of teaching, research and practice.

Each chapter engages with the application of criminology in a particular area of the community and criminal justice system, and offers:

An overview of the relationship between criminological theory and policy and practice developments. Critical reflection on whether criminology has been meaningfully engaged - paying particular attention to the contemporary issues and debates. Evaluation of the implications for diverse communities, paying particular attention to discrimination and oppression and criminal justice values. Summaries, case studies and further reading to support knowledge and understanding.

 The book is accompanied by a companion website to enhance the learning experience. This includes:

Lecture notes Online readings Student exercises Case studies Useful links

 

This is the first book to cover comprehensively and accessibly the area of applied criminology. It draws together leading experts with experience of teaching, research and practice.

Each chapter engages with the application of criminology in a particular area of the community and criminal justice system, and offers:

An overview of the relationship between criminological theory and policy and practice developments. Critical reflection on whether criminology has been meaningfully engaged - paying particular attention to the contemporary issues and debates. Evaluation of the implications for diverse communities, paying particular attention to discrimination and oppression and criminal justice values. Summaries, case studies and further reading to support knowledge and understanding.

 The book is accompanied by a companion website to enhance the learning experience. This includes:

Lecture notes Online readings Student exercises Case studies Useful links

 

This book:

covers the essential content in the new specifications in a rigorous and engaging way, using detailed narrative, sources, timelines, key words, helpful activities and extension material helps develop conceptual understanding of areas such as evidence, interpretations, causation and change, through targeted activities provides assessment support for A level with sample answers, sources, practice questions and guidance to help you tackle the new-style exam questions.

It also comes with three years' access to ActiveBook, an online, digital version of your textbook to help you personalise your learning as you go through the course - perfect for revision.

Ever since it came to the world's attention in the 17th century, the world's most famous tapestry has been a source of never-ending speculation. This book highlights the background of its construction and the events of 1066 that it portrays. It details warfare and weaponry, armour and costumes, depictions of everyday life, houses and farming.

Ever since it came to the world's attention in the 17th century, the world's most famous tapestry has been a source of never-ending speculation.This book highlights the background of its construction and the events of 1066 that it portrays. It details warfare and weaponry, armour and costumes, depictions of everyday life, houses and farming.

When the Romans came to Britain in AD 43, they brought a new style of domestic life, one that better-off Britons soon copied.  This informative guide looks at how villas were built, and at the accommodation and daily life villa residents enjoyed - their living rooms and bedrooms, kitchens and baths, gardens and courtyards, furniture and food, and the servants and slaves who kept the villa running.   Illustrated with site photos from Roman villas around Britain, archaeological treasures, and museum reconstructions of villa interiors, this is a fascinating look at life in Roman Britain before the Roman army left in AD 406 and the villa way of life faded into history.   Includes a list of places to visit.

The Blitz was a defining moment of the Second World War when civilians faced total war from the air with bombing raids over Britain. This title brings back the effect of the chilling wail of the air-raid siren followed by anxious, sleepless nights and stories of bravery from ordinary people in extraordinary situations. Well-illustrated with contemporary photographs, this book explores the Blitz and its effect on places and people.

An illustrated guide to the Normans – the invaders of 1066 who changed English life foreverThe 1066 Norman conquest of England, led by William, Duke of Normandy (“the Conqueror”), was the single greatest political change England has ever seen. The Normans brought with them a new culture, which included law, architectural style and methods, and leisure pursuits. The old aristocracy was stripped of their assets and denounced, and in its place a new French aristocracy began to run the country – even bringing their language with them. The guide examines the impact the new Norman rule had on the English way of life.Look out for more Pitkin Guides on the very best of British history, heritage and travel.