James Riordan was an English novelist celebrated for his children's novels and his scholarly contributions to the history of sport in the Soviet Union. His work reveals a deep engagement with Russian culture and a profound passion for athletics. Riordan masterfully blended academic insight with captivating storytelling, resulting in works appreciated for both their depth of knowledge and their engaging narratives. He leaves a legacy as a significant interpreter of sports history and a gifted storyteller for young readers.
Marmaduke, a curious tabby cat, becomes convinced that he is related to a tiger after spotting a picture of one. His imagination leads him on a whimsical journey, exploring the similarities they share, like their striking yellow eyes and stripes. This charming tale delves into themes of identity and family, showcasing Marmaduke's playful spirit and adventurous nature as he seeks to connect with his perceived relative.
Sport occupies a key position in the cultural profile of a nation. This study forms a comparative guide to sport across Europe, in terms of its relative political and social status, its development, and the ways in which it has contributed to national achievement. Covering sport in ten major European states, each native contributor to the study presents : A brief historical sports successes, Olympic positions and sporting traditions; Organisation of its structure and financing; Elite talent is spotted, nurtured and remunerated,sports academies,national qualification schemes; The role of science and medicine in sport; Summary and conclusions. Following this format through each chapter, the book serves as a valuable guide to students of Sports Studies, enabling comparison of sport across culturally diverse regions of Germany,Russia,UK,Spain,Denmark,France,Italy,Belgium,Lithuania and Slovenia.
Thirty-five years after his death in Paris at age twenty-seven, Jim Morrison's iconic legend remains as powerful as ever, swathed in the mists of mystery. There have been numerous biographies about the self-proclaimed "Lizard King's" life and career. But none have examined his roots and childhood, the intellectual foundations of his music, his wild days with the Doors, and his enigmatic early death as completely and insightfully as Break On Through.More than simply a fascinating look at a rock legend whose cult following never stops growing, here is the definitive Morrison biography: his angry relationship with his father; the early tragedies and terrible events responsible for the darkness of his artistic vision; his private life and legal trials, including his infamous Miami obscenity bust; and the truth about his final hours. Based on extensive research and featuring dozens of rarely published photographs, this is the authoritative portrait of the poet, the grim visionary, the haunted man, and his haunting music.
Meet Grace Barry in Grace the Pirate. Grace is a wild young girl; she is captured by pirates and marooned on a desert island. But nothing can stop Grace for long... TreeTops Fiction contains engaging novels from top authors and illustrators with the variety children need to develop a love of reading!
A collection of sixteen tales, including original stories by a variety of Irish authors and retellings of traditional folktales
Set against the backdrop of the First World War, the narrative follows a boy's harrowing journey through the battlefield horrors. Amidst the chaos and bloodshed, moments of humanity emerge, particularly during a poignant scene where fighting pauses for a game of football on the frozen ground of No-Man's-Land. This powerful tale not only explores the impact of war but also highlights the resilience and hope that can arise even in the darkest times, coinciding with the centenary of the war's onset.
"Comrade Jim" tells the true story of Jim Riordan, an English double agent who unexpectedly played for Spartak Moscow. From his working-class dreams of Portsmouth FC to espionage in Berlin, he immerses himself in Russian culture and communism, leading to his remarkable journey in Cold War Moscow and football. A tale of adventure and resilience.
The book explores the rich oral traditions of Siberia, showcasing a unique spiritual democracy and the enduring purity of its folk art. With roots that stretch back two thousand years, these stories reflect the region's beauty and strangeness, offering insights into the culture and beliefs of its people. The narrative emphasizes the significance of these tales in preserving the heritage and wisdom of Siberian communities, making it a compelling journey into a lesser-known aspect of human storytelling.
Twelve of the best-known tales of King Arthur and his knights, retold from Malory's "Morte d'Arthur" and other medieval sources