‘How’s the Pain? is way off kilter, blackly comic and quintessentially Gallic.’ Crime Time ‘One of the most remarkable and, in the English-speaking world at least, one of the most inexplicably underappreciated French writers of the twentieth century’ John Banville Death is Simon’s business. And now the ageing vermin exterminator is preparing to die. But he still has one last job down on the coast, and he needs a driver. Bernard is twenty-one. He can drive and he’s never seen the sea. He can’t pass up the chance to chauffeur for Simon, whatever his mother may say. As the unlikely pair set off on their journey, Bernard soon finds that Simon’s definition of vermin is broader than he’d expected ... Veering from the hilarious to the horrific, this offbeat story from master stylist Pascal Garnier is at heart an affecting study of human frailty.

'Masterly' John Banville 'Action-packed and full of gallows humour' Sunday Telegraph Death is Simon's business. And now the ageing vermin exterminator is preparing to die. But he still has one last job down on the coast, and he needs a driver. Bernard is twenty-one. He can drive and he's never seen the sea. He can't pass up the chance to chauffeur for Simon, whatever his mother may say. As the unlikely pair set off on their journey, Bernard soon finds that Simon's definition of vermin is broader than he'd expected... Veering from the hilarious to the horrific, this offbeat story from master stylist Pascal Garnier is at heart an affecting study of human frailty. This Editions Gallic reissue comes complete with an introduction from Booker-winning novelist John Banville.

The Landmark Julius Caesar is the definitive edition of the five works that chronicle the mil­itary campaigns of Julius Caesar. Together, these five narratives present a comprehensive picture of military and political developments leading to the collapse of the Roman republic and the advent of the Roman Empire. The Gallic War is Caesar’s own account of his two invasions of Britain and of conquering most of what is today France, Belgium, and Switzerland. The Civil War describes the conflict in the following year which, after the death of his chief rival, Pompey, and the defeat of Pompey’s heirs and supporters, resulted in Caesar’s emergence as the sole power in Rome. Accompanying Caesar’s own commentaries are three short but essential additional works, known to us as the Alexandrian War, the African War, and the Spanish War. These were written by three unknown authors who were clearly eyewitnesses and probably Roman officers. Caesar’s clear and direct prose provides a riveting depiction of ancient warfare and, not incidentally, a persuasive portrait for the Roman people (and for us) of Caesar himself as a brilliant, moderate, and effec­tive leader—an image that was key to his final success. Kurt A. Raaflaub’s masterful translation skillfully brings out the clarity and elegance of Caesar’s style, and this, together with such Landmark features as maps, detailed annotations, appendices, and illustrations, will provide every reader from lay person to scholar with a rewarding and enjoyable experience. (With 2-color text, maps, and illustrations throughout; web essays available at http://www.thelandmarkcaesar.com/)

The Collected Works of Henryk Sienkiewicz (Illustrated Edition) brings together the key literary works of the Polish author, showcasing his talent for historical fiction and his ability to transport readers to a different time and place. Sienkiewicz's writing style is marked by its vivid descriptions, intricate plots, and memorable characters that resonate with readers long after they have finished the book. This collection includes his most famous works such as 'Quo Vadis' and 'With Fire and Sword', exploring themes of love, loyalty, and honor against the backdrop of historical events. Sienkiewicz's literary context is rooted in the Romantic period of the late 19th century, highlighting his dedication to preserving the cultural and historical heritage of Poland through his writing. This illustrated edition provides a visual element to enhance the reading experience, bringing to life the settings and characters described in Sienkiewicz's works. Readers interested in historical fiction, Polish literature, and rich storytelling will find this collection both engaging and enlightening, offering a glimpse into the world of one of Poland's most renowned authors.