Created amid rugged Highland hills, tartan is the very symbol of Scotland, a proud beacon of national independence and individual clan loyalty. This fascinating book looks at what is known about these
As Catholic conspirator and would-be assassin Guy Fawkes, you'll witness the secretive planning and thwarted execution of the infamous Gunpowder Plot of 1605 at first-hand. Plunge into a morally-murky
You are a young man from a noble family in Mexico. Little do you suspect that you are about to fall victim to one of the most powerful South American civilisations and become an Aztec sacrifice! The t
You are Christopher Columbus, the explorer who accidentally discovered America. Follow Columbus' struggles to finance his journeys, his sometimes infamous behaviour and his final lonely days. "You Wou
For thousands of years, nurses have tended to the sick and the wounded. Although they don't get the glory, nurses are just as important as doctors. They look after us in hospital, making sure that we
Learn the surprising truth about pain: how it actually helps keep us alive, healthy, and feeling good. You Wouldn’t Want to Live Without Pain! is part of a brand-new science and technology strand with
Nowadays, going to the dentist is a safe and usually painless experience. But that wasn't always the case. In past centuries, the only cure for a decayed tooth was to yank it out - without anaesthetic
How would you cope if there were no toilets? Where would you go? How would you keep yourself and your house clean? This book tells the fascinating story of a piece of technology that most of us take f
It's the end of the 15th century, and your local castle is looking for a jailer. Are you up to the job? Your charges will include all sorts of people, from hardened criminals to people with mental ill
You are the son of a senior servant living in England in the 1400s. Instead of following in your father's footsteps and becoming a servant, you'd much rather become a knight! During your training, you
Great Scots, A Very Peculiar History looks at a whole host of great (and not so great) Scots and their influence on the world. The book features a short history of each person, detailing their achieve
Marrying Henry VIII was not an easy option - tips provided in this book include 'think carefully before accepting his proposal' and 'give birth to a son, not a daughter'. Set against a backdrop of tur
Seized by slave traders, separated from your native tribe, your family and friends, you are put up for sale in the slave market. Your life will be spent fetching and carrying, and pampering the egos o
This lively, interactive series will enthrall young and reluctant readers by making them part of the story, inviting them to become the main character and revel in the gory, dark, horrific side of lif
Discover the horrible and hilarious secrets of Edinburgh's chequered (or perhaps tartaned) past. Fiona Macdonald presents a history of Scotland's most powerful city, from ancient to modern, gracious t
This Very Peculiar History title explores the history of man's best friend and the history of their relationship with our own species. Featuring chapters on dog origins and evolution, dog anatomical o
Loved and cherished, praised and admired, hated and feared - more than any other domesticated creature, cats provoke extremes of feeling and this Peculiar History title explores why. Featuring chapter
This fascinating book delves into the origins and backgrounds of key Scottish clan names which have formed a part of the country's modern day heritage.
Taking a unique look at one of the most acclaimed and best-loved poets, Robert Burns, A Very Peculiar History provides a fascinating insight into the life and times of Scotland's national poet.
From Oliver Twist and Great Expectations to A Christmas Carol and A Tale of Two Cities, the novels of Charles Dickens are among the best loved and most adapted in English literature. This charming and
Quirky and humourous look at the history, development and evolution of whisky, from its humble roots in the monasteries to the drinks cabinets of the world. Features fascinating facts, bizarre stories
A humourous guide that explores the hard lives of Victorian servants. It offers glimpses into the strict and sometimes downright bizarre world of the Victorian upper classes.
We all know about mistletoe and stockings hung up by the chimney with care. But have you heard about Santa’s evil sidekick and the Scandinavian celebration of Saint Lucy? Merry very peculiar Christmas
Offers an account of the vibrant history of Scotland, from the beginnings of Stewart rule up to modern day Scotland. Celebrating the cultural and historic achievements of the Scottish, from the fierce
