We have all squirmed at an uncomfortable interview. Vaughan Grylls has squirmed at more than most. Having had more interviews in his lifetime than anyone should reasonably expect, Grylls, with exemplary powers of recall, recounts hilarious and often poignant years of painful interviews. They range from childhood interviews for schools, and then for colleges, for university jobs, for newspapers, and even for the sack. But Grylls has been on the other side of the desk as well, as a teacher and finally as the director of an art college, and this experience gives him a perspective on these excruciating rites of passage. In this entertaining and enlightening expose of the interview room, Grylls shows us all, at whatever age, what not to do. Both an entertaining account of the life and work of a successful artist and educator who has held senior posts (and been interviewed for others) in both Ivy League and Cambridge Colleges as well as more modest institutions, and also a self-help book for anyone anticipating or planning for an interview. The life lessons are gently imparted with humor and sensitivity, while the critique of educational practice and the decline of the educational ideal is coruscating and vivid.

A record of remarkable folk narratives told over successive nights on vessels or in camps in remote Karelia

In 'The Burgess Bird Book for Children (Illustrated)', Thornton Burgess introduces young readers to the fascinating world of birds through a series of engaging stories. Written in a delightful narrative style, the book seamlessly combines education with entertainment, making it both informative and enjoyable for children. Burgess incorporates scientific information about birds' habits, diets, and habitats within the charming tales, providing readers with a comprehensive introduction to ornithology. This literary work not only serves as a valuable educational resource but also captures the essence of Burgess's love for nature and wildlife. The beautiful illustrations enhance the reading experience, bringing the bird characters to life and captivating the audience with their vivid depictions. Through this book, Burgess successfully inspires a sense of wonder and curiosity about the natural world in young minds. Thornton Burgess, a renowned naturalist and children's author, drew inspiration from his deep passion for the environment and wildlife when writing 'The Burgess Bird Book for Children (Illustrated)'. His intricate knowledge and love for birds shine through in the vivid descriptions and accurate portrayals of avian behavior found in the book. Burgess's dedication to educating children about nature and instilling a love for animals is evident in his meticulous research and storytelling. I highly recommend this book to young readers who are curious about birds and eager to explore the wonders of the natural world. 'The Burgess Bird Book for Children (Illustrated)' provides an enchanting journey into the world of feathered friends, making learning about birds both fun and informative.

The 'Big Book of Christmas Tales' is a captivating anthology that traverses the vivacious literary landscape of Christmas narratives. Encompassing a wide range of literary styles, from the whimsical to the solemn, this collection presents an unparalleled amalgamation of stories that both illuminate and celebrate the myriad facets of the holiday season. Its significance is bolstered by the inclusion of seminal works from a pantheon of authors renowned for their contributions to literature, narratively weaving through the themes of hope, generosity, redemption, and the human condition. The diversity of tales, from Dickenss evocative portrayals of Victorian Christmases to Andersens timeless fairy tales, showcases the universal and enduring appeal of Christmas storytelling. The contributing authors and editors of this anthology bring together a veritable tapestry of cultural, historical, and literary backgrounds, united by the theme of Christmas. Their collective works resonate with various movements and epochs in literature, from Victorian sentimentalism to the poignant realism of Dostoevsky, reflecting the profound ways in which Christmas has been celebrated, challenged, and depicted throughout literary history. The anthology stands as a testament to the rich interplay of cultural narratives and individual creativity, offering a holistic exploration of Christmas through the lenses of some of the greatest writers in history. 'Readers seeking a comprehensive exploration of the Christmas spirit through literature need look no further than the Big Book of Christmas Tales. This anthology not only offers a unique opportunity to engage with the holiday season through a multitude of perspectives, styles, and themes but also serves as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling in capturing the essence of human experiences connected to Christmas. It invites readers to delve into a literary feast, promising both enlightenment and entertainment, and fostering a deeper appreciation for the ways in which Christmas has been immortalized in literature.

Within the pages of 'Down the Chimney: 100+ Most Treasured Christmas Novels & Stories in One Volume (Illustrated),' readers are treated to a grand tapestry of Christmas narratives that span a variety of literary styles and epochs. This collection brings together a rich assortment of tales that reflect the diverse ways in which the yuletide season has been celebrated, interpreted, and cherished across different cultures and time periods. Featuring a medley of works from revered authors such as Charles Dickens and Leo Tolstoy to less familiar yet equally poignant voices, this anthology bridges the gap between classic and contemporary, highlighting standout pieces that capture the essence of Christmas. The diversity in storytelling, from the magical realism of E. T. A. Hoffmann to the stark realism of Anton Chekhov, eloquently mirrors the multifaceted nature of Christmas itself, making this collection a significant literary treasure. The contributing authors and editors, hailing from various backgrounds, bring a wealth of experiences and perspectives to this anthology. Their cumulative oeuvre spans the entirety of the 19th and early 20th centuries, a period rich with literary innovation and cultural shifts that influenced how Christmas was perceived and celebrated. Embedded within these narratives are reflections of the changing social, political, and economic climates of their times. This collective work aligns with significant historical and cultural movements, offering readers not just stories, but a window into the worldviews and societal norms of past eras. The varied voices in this collection, from the fervent abolitionist Harriet Beecher Stowe to the visionary fantasy of L. Frank Baum, collectively enrich our understanding of Christmas as a cultural phenomenon, providing a comprehensive overview of its impact on literature and society. 'Down the Chimney: 100+ Most Treasured Christmas Novels & Stories in One Volume (Illustrated)' is an indispensable anthology for those who wish to explore the myriad ways in which Christmas has been depicted in literature. It invites readers into a world where Christmas is not just a holiday, but a pivotal theme around which narratives of hope, redemption, and transformation revolve. This collection offers a unique opportunity to delve into a multitude of perspectives, styles, and themes, all unified by the spirit of Christmas. It is recommended for scholars, students, and any reader seeking to understand the depth and breadth of Christmas literature through the ages, fostering a dialogue between the traditional and the contemporary, the magical and the mundane. In doing so, it promises to kindle the Christmas spirit in the hearts of its readers, making it a cherished volume for generations to come.

This carefully crafted ebook: "21 Greatest Spy Thrillers in One Premium Edition (Mystery & Espionage Series)" is formatted for your eReader with a functional and detailed table of contents: The Spy Paramount The Great Impersonation Last Train Out The Double Traitor Havoc The Spymaster Ambrose Lavendale, Diplomat The Vanished Messenger The Dumb Gods Speak The Pawns Court The Box With Broken Seals The Great Prince Shan The Devil's Paw The Bird of Paradise The Zeppelin's Passenger The Kingdom of the Blind The Illustrious Prince The Lost Ambassador Mysterious Mr. Sabin The Betrayal The Colossus of Arcadia E. Phillips Oppenheim, the Prince of Storytellers (1866-1946) was an internationally renowned author of mystery and espionage thrillers. His novels and short stories have all the elements of blood-racing adventure and intrigue and are precursors of modern-day spy fictions.