Collins Gem – serie

THE MULTIMILLION COPY BESTSELLER THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SURVIVING ANYWHERE The Collins Gem SAS Survival Guide is the pocket companion for adventurers everywhere. From making camp and finding food in the wild to security and self-defence in the streets, be prepared on land or sea. SAS legend John ‘Lofty’ Wiseman’s unrivalled guide will teach you:Preparation – Understanding and assembling latest, most resilient, kit.Navigation – Skills, technologies and techniques to get you through unfamiliar terrain.Food and Health – Finding resources in your environment, feeding yourself, healing yourself and avoiding disease.Safety and Security – Recognising dangerous situations, defending yourself and saving others.Disaster Survival – Dealing with unstable environmental conditions: what to do in the face of flash flooding or fast-spreading fire.

You will never be lost for words in your travels around Japan again! Your ideal pocket-sized travel companion and the accompanying free ebook will ensure that you can say what you need in Japanese with ease and confidence.Reliable, portable and easy-to-use, this phrasebook is an indispensable travel companion as you deal with the situations that crop up every day on holiday; from finding a chic hotel, or hiring a car to explore the countryside, to choosing a local delicacy from the menu, and, of course, shopping for souvenirs.With helpful travel information and cultural tips, plus a 3000-word dictionary, make sure you don’t go anywhere without this little book – an essential guide to speaking and understanding Japanese when travelling in Japan.Access your free ebook at collins.co.uk/ebooks. You will need to register to access your content, instructions can be found on this link.

You will never be lost for words in your travels around Italy and Italian-speaking countries again! Your ideal pocket-sized travel companion and the accompanying free ebook will ensure that you can say what you need in Italian with ease and confidence.Reliable, portable and easy-to-use, this phrasebook is an indispensable travel companion as you deal with the situations that crop up every day on holiday; from finding a chic hotel, or hiring a car to explore the countryside, to choosing a local delicacy from the menu, and, of course, shopping for souvenirs.With helpful travel information and cultural tips, plus a 3000-word dictionary, make sure you don’t go anywhere without this little book – an essential guide to speaking and understanding Italian when travelling in Italy.Access your free ebook at collins.co.uk/ebooks. You will need to register to access your content, instructions can be found on this link.

The ideal portable companion, the world-renowned Collins Gem series returns with a fresh new look and updated material.This is the perfect pocket guide for nature enthusiasts keen to identify the most commonly seen insects in Britain and northern Europe.Authoritative text and beautiful photographs show the distinguishing features of each insect to aid identification.Features information on size, habitat, geographical range and months when they can be spotted, as well as names of similar species with which each insect could be confused, and details of the differences between them.This new edition builds on the strengths of the unrivalled original, now expanded to include over 240 insects.

The ideal portable companion, the world-renowned Collins Gem series returns with a fresh new look and updated material.This is the perfect pocket guide for nature enthusiasts keen to identify the wild flowers they might encounter on a walk along the coast or in the mountains, or a ramble through woodland, fields or wetlands.Authoritative text, beautiful photographs and detailed illustrations show the parts of the flower, stem, leaf and fruit, including both common and scientific names of each wild flower.Additionally, each entry features illustrations and description of appearance and colour, details on size, type of habitat, geographical range and flowering season, along with helpful information on herbal medicinal uses of each flower.

The ideal portable companion, the world-renowned Collins Gem series returns with a fresh new look and updated material.This is the perfect pocket guide for aspiring foragers. Over 100 edible plants are listed, fully illustrated and described, together with recipes and other fascinating details on their use throughout the ages.Practical advice on how to pick along with information on countryside laws and regulations on picking wild plants helps you to plan your foray with a feast in mind.This is the ideal book for both nature lovers and cooks keen to enjoy what the countryside has to offer.

The ideal portable companion, the world-renowned Collins Gem series returns with a fresh new look and updated material.This is the perfect pocket guide for nature and foraging enthusiasts keen to identify the most commonly found mushrooms and toadstools in Britain and northern Europe.Authoritative text, beautiful photographs and detailed illustrations show the distinguishing features of each mushroom and toadstool, including details of size, habitat and when it can be found, whether it is edible or poisonous and most importantly, which similar species it can be confused with and why.This new edition builds on the strengths of the unrivalled original, now expanded to include over 240 species of mushroom and toadstool.

There are few spirits that command such dedication, interest and affection as whisky. The purpose of this book is to provide a pathway through the whisky maze, to demystify it and to provide a platform from which a lifetime’s hobby can be launched.Whisky expert Dominic Roskrow explores all aspects of this popular drink, delving into its history, dispelling the myths surrounding it and highlighting individualities of the many varieties that exist.Includes: Origins and history of whiskyHow whiskies are made todayGuide to Scottish distilleriesSingle malt whiskiesHow to drink and appreciate whiskySections on whiskies of the world, including Irish whiskey and bourbonDebunking mythsTypes of whiskyBuying whisky

The home of trusted French dictionaries for everyday language learning.The Collins French Gem Verbs offers the learner of French extensive coverage of French verbs in a compact, portable format with a clear layout.Written for everyone who is learning French and is the ideal text for anyone who needs a wealth of reliable verb information in a portable format.Have confidence: offers full conjugations of 112 French verbs, both regular and irregular.Get it right: it also contains an alphabetical index of over 2,000 French verbs each cross-referred to its model verb.Get there fast: clear layout ensures that you can quickly find the information you need.

The ideal companion to the hugely successful Gem Calorie Counter, this is a handy portable guide to carbohydates in everyday foods.Perfect for those following the Fast Diet (5:2 Diet), Dukan Diet, Atkins Diet or other weight-loss diets.Clearly laid out tables give details of net carbohydrates per portion (slice, biscuit, apple) making it quick and simple to use.Reducing carbohydrates and following a high protein diet has become a popular and effective way of losing weight and keeping those extra pounds off. The interest in the Dr Atkins New Diet Revolution is clear proof of this.The key to following a high-protein diet is to control your carbohydrate intake. Collins Gem Carb Counter is a guide to the net carb contents of everyday foods. It also gives calories, protein and fat.Information is given per portion to make it easy to use. High protein, carb-counting diets are often referred to as a man’s diet and this emphasis on portions rather than 100 g means that there is less working out involved.Boredom is often the downfall of the carb counter, so a section is included which gives suggestions for different meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks.

The ideal portable companion, the world-renowned Collins Gem series returns with a fresh new look and updated material.This is the perfect pocket guide for keen birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts to identify the diverse range of birds that inhabit their gardens.Authoritative text and beautiful photographs show the distinguishing features of each bird, including information on each species' feeding, behavioural habits, breeding, voice and population. An extensive introduction provides information on nesting sites, water, pests and predators.This new edition builds on the strengths of the unrivalled original, covering all birds most likely to be found in our gardens.

Collins Gem Babies Names is number one in the best-selling stakes. Meet its Irish cousin! This detailed guide to over 2000 of the most popular Irish first names is the ideal gift for anyone wishing to choose an Irish name for their child, or is interested in finding out a bit more about their own name.This Collins Gem is being reissued in paperback. The stylish new cover style and new text design will enliven this and other best-selling Gems.Irish names are spreading across the world. As well as being more common in Ireland, they now feature in most English-speaking countries of the world.The reason for this spread is not hard to find. Massive emigration, especially during the 19th century famines, left many people of Irish descent in Britain, the USA, Canada and Australia. These emigrants often had to give up the Irish language in favour of English, but they took their names with them, gave them to their children and spread them in the new countries. Indeed some, such as Brian, are now so well-established that they are no longer considered Irish. Others have developed strong associations with their new countries, so that Oscar is sometimes thought of as Scandinavian, Barry and Sheila are associated with Australia, and for most people Darren is American.What then is an Irish name? In this book a very broad view is taken, with special attention paid to what has happened to names after they left Ireland. The names come from Gaelic (and are given in Gaelic and in an anglicised form), from translations from Irish forms of non-Irish names and from Irish surnames and words.Over 2000 names included.Features names derived from the Irish language, anglicized versions of Irish names, and Irish names used in the USA and Australia.Meaning, origin and pronunciation guide given for each name.This edition has been redesigned in the new Gem style both internally and with a new cover design

Essential tips on all the basic watercolour techniques, plus helpful advice on sketching and drawing.Guidelines on painting skies, backgrounds, foregrounds, the main subject, trees, details and shadows.Clear and straightforward step-by-step instructions for painting a complete landscape in 7 easy stagesTips on painting water in various forms and adding people to a painting.

The ideal portable companion, the world-renowned Collins Gem series returns with a fresh new look and updated material.This is the perfect pocket guide for nature enthusiasts keen to identify the most commonly seen butterflies and moths in Britain and northern Europe.Authoritative text, beautiful photographs and detailed illustrations show the distinguishing features of each butterfly and moth to aid identification.Features information on size, habitat, geographical range and months when they can be spotted, as well as names of similar species with which each butterfly or moth could be confused, and details of the differences between them.This new edition builds on the strengths of the unrivalled original, now expanded to include over 240 butterflies and moths.

A new edition of this perennial Gem favourite, this is a complete guide to everything you’ve ever wanted to know about the zodiac. From sex to work, family to living habits, Gem Zodiac Types tells you how each zodiac sign behaves and lives.Have you ever wondered what a Taurean’s personality is like, what sort of home a Piscean would have, how a Sagittarian behaves in the office and what a Libran is like when in love? If you have, Collins Gem Zodiac Types is the handy-sized guide for you.The section for each sign of the zodiac includes:• Personality, look and male and female traits• Behaviour at home and in the office• Love, sex and partners• Friends, leisure interests, health and compatibility with other signsLists of famous people associated with each sign round off this ideal introduction to the world of the zodiac.

A brand-new edition of this bestselling Gem, featuring individual charts for all 88 constellations, a star atlas of the entire sky and details of the brightest stars and objects of interest which can be seen with the naked eye, binoculars and small telescopes.Collins Gem Stars provides details of all 88 constellations of the Northern and Southern hemispheres, complete with star charts and a star atlas of the entire sky, ideal for practical observation of the stars throughout the world all year round.

A fascinating introduction to the different habitats and creatures to be found along the coastline. With over 240 colour photographs, this is the ideal guide to take on seashore rambles.Divided into different coastline habitats for ease of use, Collins Gem Seashore is the ideal guide for families and children.Featured habitats include cliffs, rocky shores, sand dunes, saltmarsh, shingle and the strandline.The book includes full details of the many species to be found within each habitat.Introductions to seaweeds, worms, molluscs, arthopods, fish, birds and mammals, and many other shore-line inhabitants are presented in a clear, accessible manner.This portable, informative book is perfect for any excursion to the shore.

The ideal portable companion, the world-renowned Collins Gem series returns with a fresh new look and updated material.This is the perfect pocket guide for keen birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts to identify the most commonly seen species in Britain and Europe.Authoritative text and beautiful photographs show the distinguishing features of each bird, including notes on appearance, colour and distinctive features, and information on juveniles, range and habitat, nests, call and breeding sites.In addition, an extensive introduction covers general information on plumage, habitats and migration, and gives first-time birdwatchers advice on what equipment to buy and where to go to spot the most desirable species.This new edition builds on the strengths of the unrivalled original, covering over 200 species of bird found in Britain and Europe.

The ideal portable companion, the world-renowned Collins Gem series returns with a fresh new look and updated material.This is the perfect pocket guide for nature enthusiasts keen to identify the most commonly seen trees, whether they are out on the town or strolling through the countryside.Authoritative text, beautiful photographs and detailed illustrations show not only the overall shape of the tree but also details of leaf shape, flowers, fruits and bark.Features both deciduous and evergreen species, with information on the origin of each species, its height, preferred habitat and growing conditions. Illustrations of cones, catkins, nuts and fruits allow you to distinguish between similar species at a glance.This new edition builds on the strengths of the unrivalled original, now expanded to include over 220 trees and shrubs that are native to or flourish in Britain and northern Europe.

Collins Gem Palm Reading reveals the ancient art of palm reading. With easy-to-follow diagrams accompanying clear and concise text, this book lays bare the complexities of hand reading.The book provides an introduction to how to read palms so that a beginner will soon be able to uncover the hidden truths of the hand.It first examines the whole hand, analysing the variety of hand shapes, including the compatibility of different hand shapes and the influences of hand shape on health and careers.It then examines the fingers and thumb in detail. Palmists look at the shape of the fingers, their flexibility and their position in relation to one another and make predictions about an individual and their compatibility with others.This examination is followed by looking at the ‘mounts’ (the fleshy pads on the palm) and their predictive power and then studying the lines on the palm (an important aspect of palm reading but not the sole element, as suggests by popular myth).By pulling all these aspects of palm reading together this book will enable you to start drawing up predictions from studying palms. To help you the book is heavily illustrated with diagrams and photographs.

A copiously illustrated guide to the monarchs of the British Isles and Ireland from pre-Saxon times to the present, complete with concise genealogical charts and details of key historical events.The book is divided into five sections, together with a Compendium at the end.Part One, presents information about Pre-Saxon rule, including details about ancient British chiefs, Roman rulers and the Roman Conquest. Part Two provides information about Scotland, Ireland and Wales, with sections on Robert I and the Wars of Independence, The Union of the Crowns, the Princes of Wales and the High Kingship of Ireland.Part Three discusses the Saxons, Normans and Plantagenets. Part Four gives details about the Tudors and Stuarts. Part Five presents an in-depth discussion of the houses from Hanover to Windsor.Parts Two to Five provide all the essential information you will need to know about Kings and Queens including details of birth, parents, accession to the throne, coronation, authority, personal status, death date and burial place for each monarch.In addition an overview is given for each reign outlining major events and personal tragedies, war, celebrations and conspiracies.

A clear introduction to the world of knots, from the practical to the decorative. Illustrated step-by-step instructions on how to master over 50 knots.Step-by-step instructions to tying over 50 knots from the essential to the decorative. A practical guide for sailers, moutaineers and campers as well as those who would like to try their hand at more decorative knots.

This pocket-sized guide to identifying and interpreting metal and ceramic marks has been improved with the addition of the most recent hallmarks, along with details of the new hallmarking system.Do you attend car boot sales or browse in antique shops in search of bargains? Have you ever wished you knew more about grandma’s silver spoon? Do you envy the experts’ ability to identify and date old hand-me-downs? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, Collins Gem Antique Marks is for you.Packed with thousands of clear illustrations, the book shows hallmarks on silver, gold and platinum, as well as those on Old Sheffield Plate, pewter, pottery and porcelain. Complete with a history of hallmarks and how to read them, Collins Gem Antique Marks is absolutely indispensable.The book provides:Full hallmarks for silver from London, Edinburgh, York, Norwich, Exeter, Dublin, Newcastle, Chester, Glasgow, Birmingham and Sheffield, along with maker’s marks from these cities.Up-to-date hallmarks for gold and platinum.Old Sheffield plate marks, showing the variety of maker’s marks.Pewter marks and a selection of pewter touch marks.Pottery and porcelain marks showing both letter and name marks, and symbol marks.Redesigned in new Gem style.

A handy, pocket-sized guide to 220 of the world’s spiders, Gem Spiders is the perfect introduction to these ‘creepy-crawlies’There are approximately 35,000 known species of spider in the world, but it is estimated that the true number in existence could be nearer 70,000. They occur everwhere naturally and, because of their sharp bite and venom, they are one of the most successful groups of animal. Each entry includes: A photograph of the spider and details of any distinguishing features which may help identificationInformation on size, web, habitat, distribution range and the times of the year when it is most likely to be spottedAn icon shows the potency of each spider’s venomEach species is sorted by family and illustrated with a symbol, enabling you to quickly find what you are looking for. There is a detailed introduction which covers aspects of spiders’ natural history, their relatives, anatomy, the production and uses of silk.From the Goliath Tarantula to the patu digua, this photographic guide is the perfect introduction for those who want to learn about these fascinating creatures.

A practical introduction to hatha yoga. Clear, illustrated step-by-step instructions to over 40 key postures. Benefits and cautions are highlighted for each posture.Published in paperback with a stylish new cover design, Gem Yoga will strengthen the bestselling Mind, Body & Spirit Gem.Collins Gem Yoga provides a good introduction to yoga, particularly for those thinking of taking up a class. It is also an invaluable reference book for those attending classes and who wish to practise the postures at home.Includes over 40 posturesDescribes breathing techniquesGives a history of yoga

A handy, practical and inspirational little book - perfect for the pocket or art bag - showing watercolour painters of all levels how to loosen up their paintings and maintain spontaneity. Written by popular artist Hazel Soan, the book is arranged in two parts: the first section explains all about watercolour and shows what can be achieved with it in a short time span; the second section suggests specific approaches to painting in particular situations.INCLUDES: covering all the essential techniques, the book focuses on maximising brushstrokes and exploring coloursUseful advice on deciding what to include and what to leave outHelpful chapters on painting a wide range of subjects, including people, landscapes, seascapes, buildings, gardens, flowers and still life subjects

Jackie starts by describing all the different media used for sketching, including pencils, charcoal, coloured pencils, pens, pastels, watercolours and gouache, as well as the different types of sketchbooks.She then looks at the basic techniques of sketching, emphasizing the importance of observation and showing how to make marks, use tone, create 3-D form and portray pattern.She then covers a wide range of subjects, such as plants and flowers, skies, animals, the urban landscape, and figures and portraits, explaining how to compose your sketches and giving useful tips about sketching on the move. There's also a fascinating section on sketching from the Masters, to provide additional inspiration.The instruction is clear and concise throughout, providing an ideal resource for artists of all levels to dip into when sketching out on location.

An introductory guide to 180 species of bird commonly found throughout Scotland in the best-selling pocketable Gem format.Unlike many field guides, Gem Scottish Birds does not cover birds which only visit occasionally, or which occur in such small numbers and are so difficult to identify that only experienced birdwatchers can spot them. Instead, it concentrates on the commoner species that the amateur birdwatcher is most likely to see, plus a few scarcer ones of particular interest.The entries are grouped taxonomically, with a detailed introduction to all the different habitats. There are also details of key identification features and behavioural characteristics which will help you identify each bird with accuracy and ease.Each entry includes: Full-colour illustrationCommon name and Latin and Gaelic nameThe season in which the bird is likely to be spottedDetails on habitat, feeding habits and voiceThere is also a section with up-to-date details about places of interest and the best sites to go for birdwatching, with maps and contact information to help you get there.Packed full of information, Gem Scottish Birds is the ideal guide for both visitors and residents of Scotland who wish to learn about the fascinating wealth of birds that can be found there.

Gem GI is a clear introduction to what a GI diet is and how it works. It explains the difference between the glycemic index of a food and its glycemic load. The GI food counter rates hundreds of foods using a simple traffic-light system: red for foods to avoid, amber for foods to eat occasionally and green for foods to focus on.Contains a clear introduction to GI diets and how they work. Cuts through the jargon associated with technical sounding terms such as glycemic index and loads.The food rater operates as in the Gem Calorie and Carb counters giving the GI rating as well as calories and carbs for hundreds of different foods.Provides tips and advice on how to use GI dieting most effectively and helps you maintain a healthy eating regime.There is also a useful guide to what to choose when eating at your favourite Chinese, Italian, Mexican, etc, restaurants.