Suzannah Lipscomb

The first account of the dissolution of the monasteries for fifty years—exploring its profound impact on the people of Tudor England...

Most of us know that addiction to digital tools is costing us both productivity and peace. But giving them up completely isn't realistic. We're addicted to texting, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter not because we're stupid or shallow, but because they provide real value in the form of connection, community, affirmation, and information. Instagram is how you see new photos of your school friend's baby. Texting is how you let your mum know you're safe in a storm. Twitter is how you hear about breaking news in your industry. But these tools can also disrupt our ability to focus on meaningful work and live fully in the present. Must we choose between one or the other? Newport's answer is no. In Digital Minimalism, he outlines a practical philosophy and plan for a mindful, intentional use of technology that maximises its benefits while minimising its drain on our attention, focus and time. Demonstrating how to implement a 30 day digital detox, this book will help you identify which uses of technology are actually helping you reach your goals, and which are holding back. If you care about improving your effectiveness but don't want to become a Luddite or a social dropout this book can lead you to increased control over your time, attention, and energy and ultimately, a richer life. Read Digital Minimalism and you'll never again mindlessly sacrifice your productivity to clickbait or lose 40 minutes of your evening to your Instagram feed.Cal Newport is a tenured professor of computer science at Georgetown University. He is the author of five books, including So Good They Can't Ignore You and the bestselling Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World. Newport's ideas have been published in top print publications, including the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the Economist, the Financial Times and the Guardian, but as a dedicated digital minimalist, Newport has never had a social media account. On Cal Newport's bestselling book Deep Work: 'Cal Newport is a clear voice in a sea of noise, bringing science and passion in equal measure' - Seth Godin author of Purple Cow 'A compelling case for cultivating intense focus, and offers immediately actionable steps for infusing more of it into our lives' - Adam Grant, author of Originals

Discover the fascinating legacy of Margaret Mitchell's Gone With the Wind and its problematic depictions of race and women. In this analysis, you'll explore the book's creation and its relationship to the myth of the Lost Cause, white feminism, and racial politics. Learn how the story foreshadows contemporary controversies over white nationalism, Black Lives Matter, and the removal of Confederate statues. Discover the value of this classic novel's uses and misuses of national mythologies and their impact on American culture today.

This book explores the history and significance of swearing, from ancient Rome to modern times. It examines both obscenities and oaths, and how they reflect cultural values and taboos. With humor and insight, the author delves into the physiological effects of swearing and whether people swear more now than in the past. Holy Sh*t is a gem of lexicography and cultural history that will expand your vocabulary and deepen your understanding of language.

Experience the shocking and extraordinary story of England's Borgias in "The House of Dudley." Discover the conniving and manipulative Tudor family that rose to prominence with each monarch, only to fall from grace just as quickly. Witness their ruthless tactics, from cunning to adultery, as they compete in a murderous game for the English throne. Join history's most brilliant, bold, and deceitful family in their quest for power and learn what caused their rise and fall. Welcome to the House of Dudley.

Explore the complex role of courtesans - women who gain power through sexual transgression - in Renaissance English drama. This study delves into the moral ambiguity of these characters, while shedding light on little-known aspects of their lives, including Anglo-Italian relations. With a focus on the sixteenth century, including the works of Shakespeare and Marlowe, this book offers intriguing insights into the societal views of the time.

Embark on a journey through the beloved world of The Chronicles of Narnia with From Spare Oom to War Drobe. Author Katherine Langrish shares her personal connection with the series, from her childhood love to her reappraisal as an adult. Delve into a close reading of the novels, along with insightful analysis and context from other critics. This is a must-read guide for any fan of C.S. Lewis' timeless tales.

The Mermaid of Black Conch tells the captivating story of a young woman named Aycayia cursed to live as a mermaid and the fisherman David whose singing captures her heart. Set in a tiny Caribbean village in 1976, this novel explores the themes of love, curses, and the magical allure of the sea.

A poignant memoir, Motherwell delves into the complex mother-daughter relationship of a young woman who left her small town to attend university against her mother's wishes. Despite escaping her home, the protagonist's separation from her family is only superficial as she grapples with the influence of her mother's expectations on her individuality. A raw and heartfelt exploration of family and personal redemption.