The Great Train Robbery, and the part Ronnie Biggs played in it, is one of the most famous true crime stories of all time. Ronnie's imprisonment, subsequent escape and life on the run has been the subject of much discussion and this new book sets out the facts for anyone wishing to find out what really happened on the day of the robbery and in the years beyond. Do you know how many members of rail staff were on board the train on the day of the robbery? Are you aware which celebrities became involved in the Free Ronnie Biggs Campaign? Can you name the many films, documentaries and books that have been produced about the Great Train Robbery? All this information and more is in 101 Interesting Facts on Ronnie Biggs and The Great Train Robbery. Despite Ronnie Biggs' advancing age and the fact that 2013 marks the 50th anniversary of the Great Train Robbery, the daring 1963 heist still attracts a great deal of interest. If you would like to know the facts, this book is for you.

The music industry has produced some iconic female artists in recent years. From princess of pop, Kylie Minogue, through to the eccentric Lady Gaga, these modern day divas belt out hit after hit for our entertainment. If you are a fan of powerful female singers, you are certain to enjoy The Pop Diva Quiz Book. Which American singer-songwriter was heavily influenced by gospel music when she was growing up? Which award-winning artist attended the BRIT school in the UK? Which singer released an album called 'Back to Basics' in 2006? The answers to these brain teasers and more can all be found inside this book. Featuring five multi-talented female artists; Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, Adele, Kylie Minogue and Christina Aguilera, you are sure to learn something new about your favourite diva. With 100 questions on the women who have helped to shape the modern music landscape, this book will appeal to pop fans of all ages. Find out how much you really know about some of the most influential women in pop.

Getting Off Escalators and surviving other embarrassing moments: Do you struggle to find the confidence to talk in public, without melting into a puddle of pathetic hopelessness? Are you having panic attacks when riding an escalator, or you don't feel manly enough to hold a pint with any authority of pride? Then you, sir, need this guide... or medical help... yes, medical help is probably a safer bet. But comics are funnier, so choose this. About the author: Scott Tierney is a nervous, awkward, confidence-lacking and stress-ridden writer, who produces self-help comics that provide very little guidance for those who read them. Luckily, these comics are extremely funny, so when the reader does loss their reason to live, they go out with a smile.

From her Hollywood debut at the age of 19 to her latest venture, this biography traces the events and circumstances that have shaped Demi Moore's extraordinary character and propelled her from aspiring model to movie superstar. The book describes Demi's troubled childhood and her crusade to quit high school to find a career in modelling, as well as the trauma of her stepfather's suicide two years later. It reveals the truth behind her relationship with actor Emilio Estevez and why she broke off their engagement, her up-and-down relationship with husband Bruce Willis and her alleged affair with Leornardo DiCaprio. It also: relates how Demi's drug and alcohol addiction almost led to her departure from the set of "e;St Elmo's Fire"e;; looks at the history behind her nude appearances both on and off screen; and details behind-the-scenes information from the sets of her movies past and present, including her roles in "e;Indecent Proposal"e;, "e;Striptease"e; and Woody Allen's "e;Deconstructing Harry"e;.

An introduction to the history of British hip-hop as it finally escapes its reputation as the poor cousin of the American variant with a succession of hugely successful releases by the new stars of 'grime'. Alex Ogg, a notable author in this field having previously written The Hip Hop Years (and been a consultant on the accompanying BAFTA nominated documentary strand), The Men Behind Def Jam and Rap Lyrics: From The Sugarhill Gang to Eminem, is a long-term commentator on the global breakout of hip-hop. His latest book explores the unique factors at play in the development of this subculture, tracing it right back to the first key releases in the early 80s, to the false dawn of the early 90s, and finally the spectacular success of grime in the last two years. Key landmarks are addressed along that timeline, and important recordings and incidents appraised, including many first-hand quotes. The ill-defined and much misunderstood 'grime' genre is placed in a specific historical context, as well as sections on trip-hop and other contributory/parallel British musics. As well as offering a comprehensive foundation for those who wish to investigate this phenomenon, Ogg provides a recommended listening list as well as snapshots of the new heroes of grime, from Dizzee Rascal and Tinchy Snyder to Tinie Tempah.

Are you an expert on Take That? Have you followed every twist and turn in the amazing Take That story? Do you know all there is to know about the multi award winning, chart topping band? Then what better way to put your knowledge to the test than with the 100 questions in this quiz book, each one designed to challenge your memory of the events that have shaped the most popular UK boyband of all time. This book covers the phenomenal success of the early years to the band's break up and subsequent reunion as a four piece right through to Robbie Williams rejoining in 2010 to complete the original Take That line-up. The Take That Quiz Book is packed with information about your favourite group, including career highlights and low points, the many unforgettable hits, awards and accolades along with personal details of all the band members. This handy reference guide is must-have for all Take That fans and anyone interested in finding out more about one of the biggest success stories in recent music history.

The sitcom has proved to be one of the most enduring genres in British TV history, reflecting the social changes and national concerns of the time, and has brought many memorable and much-loved characters to our screens. Who can forget iconic figures like Frank Spencer, Basil Fawlty and Reggie Perrin or the antics of the Trotters, the Meldrews and the staff of Grace Brothers' department store, to name but a few? The 1,000 questions in The British TV Sitcom Quiz book will test your knowledge of your favourite series from yesteryear to the current day. From Steptoe and Son, Dad's Army and Porridge to Absolutely Fabulous, The Office, and My Family, this book is bulging with facts that will refresh your memory and help you to recapture some of those magical moments in situation comedy. With a fitting foreword by Brian Murphy from the hilarious '70s TV show George and Mildred and Nicholas Parsons OBE, this is a must-have book for all sitcom fans.

Are you a football fan? Do you support Tottenham Hotspur FC? Would you like to find out more about the club's long and successful history? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are certain to enjoy this informative Spurs reference guide.Did you know that Tottenham's record cup win is 13-2, in an FA Cup game against Crewe during February 1960? Or that Steve Perryman holds the record at White Hart Lane for making the most League appearances at the club, with 653 starts and two substitute appearances? With 101 facts all about Spurs, this is the book that Tottenham supporters can't be without. Perfect for match days or amusing the kids at home, this tribute to Spurs will tell you everything you ever wanted to know about this popular English Premier League team. So why not relive all those golden moments from days gone by and gen up on Spurs' glorious past with 101 Interesting Facts About Spurs? A simply must-have book for Tottenham supporters of all ages.

Getting Off Escalators and surviving other embarrassing moments: Do you struggle to find the confidence to talk in public, without melting into a puddle of pathetic hopelessness? Are you having panic attacks when riding an escalator, or you don't feel manly enough to hold a pint with any authority of pride? Then you, sir, need this guide... or medical help... yes, medical help is probably a safer bet. But comics are funnier, so choose this. About the author: Scott Tierney is a nervous, awkward, confidence-lacking and stress-ridden writer, who produces self-help comics that provide very little guidance for those who read them. Luckily, these comics are extremely funny, so when the reader does loss their reason to live, they go out with a smile.

Are you a fan of John Newman? Have you followed his progress through the charts from the release of his debut single to receiving three Brit award nominations? Would you like to find out more about the talented singer and musician? If so, The John Newman Quiz Book is definitely for you. The trademark streak in John's hair was originally a tribute to which soulful female artist who had a similar blonde streak? How did John celebrate 'Love Me Again' reaching number 1 in the UK singles charts? At what overseas festival did John headline in July 2014? The answers to these questions and more can all be found in this fun quiz book. John has been steadily building up a dedicated following ever since he featured on Rudimental's chart-topping single 'Feel the Love'. Since then, John's popularity has continued to rise so make sure that you are the first to find out all about the distinctive artist. With 100 questions all about your favourite singer, this is a must-have book for John's growing fanbase.

Are you the world's biggest Paris Hilton fan? Or do you want to know everything there is to know about the socialite, model, singer, actress and DJ?If so, then this is the book for you! Contained within are 101 amazing facts about everything, from her privileged upbringing to her extensive charity work, from her films to her music and so much more. The book is easily organised into sections so you can find the information you want fast and is perfect for all ages!

Are you a fan of horse racing? Do the origins of this action-packed sport intrigue you? Would you like to find out more about the horses, riders and trainers involved in the famous races? If so, you are certain to enjoy 101 Interesting Facts on the History of Horse Racing. It's a chronological journey from the earliest days of racing. Read about racing before the days of the thoroughbred; the first recorders of racing; the mystery of the foundation stallions; the origin of grey horses; twins; the early bookmakers and other Turf personalities; the American Godolphin Arabian; the truth behind the origins of the Grand National and who was the real winner of the 1880 Derby. The answers can all be found in this informative new book along with many more fascinating facts about the history of racing. This book is packed with carefully researched, detailed information about all aspects of racing including famous runners, breeders, owners, jockeys and much more, so that you can't fail to learn something new. This is a must-have book for anyone with an interest in racing.

Were you a fan of the 1980s' cult American series Magnum P.I.? Can you remember the names of the four main characters? Was Magnum P.I. one of your favourite TV shows from yesteryear? If so, you won't want to be without this new quiz book. What was Magnum's iconic Hawaiian shirt called? Who was the original composer of the Magnum P.I. theme song? In which major film was actor Tom Selleck originally cast? The answers to these questions and more can all be found inside The Magnum P.I. Quiz Book. With 300 questions on the characters, the actors who brought them to life, writers, episodes, guest stars, cars and much more Magnum related trivia, this book will take you back in time as you relive all those memorable moments from Magnum P.I. Full of facts about the show that had audiences across the globe glued to their screens, this book will tell you everything you ever wanted to know about the award-winning, iconic TV series. This is a must-have for Magnum P.I. fans of all ages.

This short biography of the famous composer Richard Wagner details his life, his works and gives the reader an interesting guide to the style that defined this master of operas and other musical works. This version has been specifically edited and formatted for today's e-readers, and makes an excellent addition to any music-related book collection.

This short biography of the famous composer Frederic Chopin (by none other than Franz Liszt!) details his life, his works and gives the reader an interesting guide to the style that defined this master of composing for the piano. This version has been specifically edited and formatted for today's e-readers, and makes an excellent addition to any music-related book collection.

Are you the world's biggest Ryan Gosling fan? Do you want to find out a whole load of information you probably didn't know about the actor of a generation? Then this is the book for you! Contained within are over one hundred facts, separated into sections such as relationships, funny facts, younger years and more. Become the master of Ryan Gosling knowledge, and see if your friends know as much about the heart-throb as you! Whether your favourite film is The Notebook, Drive or Lost River, or if you're just a huge fan of Dead Man's Bones, then this is the book for you.

Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, War Horse, Star Trek: Into Darkness, The Hobbit trilogy, Twelve Years a Slave, August: Osage County, The Fifth Estate; Hedda Gabler, After the Dance, Frankenstein; Hawking, To the Ends of the Earth, The Last Enemy, Parade's End, and, of course, Sherlock. For most actors, these stellar cinematic, theatrical, and television events would be the highlights of a lifetime's work. On Benedict Cumberbatch's resume they are only a few of many entries. Especially since 2010, his performances have garnered a plethora of best actor awards, both in the theatre (Evening Standard Theatre Award, Critics Circle Theatre Award, and Olivier Award), by playing the dual roles of Victor Frankenstein and the Creature in the National Theatre's Frankenstein, and on television (Broadcasting Press Guild Award, Critics Choice Television Award, Crime Thriller Award, and TV Choice Award), by starring as the titular Holmes in the BBC's Sherlock. Add these and other recent accolades to nearly a decade's nominations and awards (such as the Golden Nymph as best actor in Hawking), and it's easy to see why Benedict Cumberbatch is often hailed as the actor of his generation. Cumberbatch's body of work further includes indie films, radio plays and series, television documentaries, live dramatic readings, multimedia advertisements, and even the occasional stint as a fashion model. He often shares an intriguing perspective on his profession, as evidenced in sometimes controversial interviews. He has become so much in demand that online box offices crash when tickets for his performances go on sale, and, before a Cheltenham Literature Festival Q&A session, fans overwhelmed Twitter when so many responded immediately to a call for questions. Cumberbatch consistently is a top name on lists ranging from sex appeal to global influence. In 2012 he beat David Beckham in the former and U.S. President Barack Obama in the latter. Increasingly, part of Cumberbatch's job involves the role of celebrity. Benedict Cumberbatch is at a pivotal point in his profession, and his career trajectory especially as documented in entertainment media permits a closer examination of just what it means to be a celebrity or star in Britain or the U.S. and how an actor may be perceived very differently in London or Hollywood. This performance biography is an analysis of a man in transition from working actor to multimedia star, as well as the balance between actor and celebrity. It looks at what makes this actor so well suited to play one of popular culture's iconic characters, Sherlock Holmes, and how Sherlock is so well suited to propel Cumberbatch toward greater global fame.

SHORTLISTED FOR PEOPLE'S BOOK PRIZE This is an essential guide to the evolving and dynamic world of digital media. Explains how the media lab as a place (actual or virtual) encourages, nurtures and provides tangible support for creative talents and their projects. While the focus of the book is on filmmaking and gaming, the author also delves into the ‘brave new worlds’ of Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality. Providing an overview of the range of media labs on offer in both academia and festivals, the book is enriched by interviews with contemporary practitioners working in digital media culture around the world. Reviews “... an inspirational and timely new resource, packed with contacts, leading edge initiatives, tips from seasoned media practitioners …. It can’t fail to help you get new creative content made, and seen, around the world.”– Nic Millington, CEO Rural Media “With digital technologies and the blurring of creative boundaries changing the way that content is made and seen, this book proves an invaluable guide for those looking to successfully navigate this constantly evolving landscape.” – Nikki Baughan, Film Industry Journalist About the author James Clarke?has written for the magazines?3D Artist, 3DWorld, Moviescope?and?Empire. His work has also featured in?The Guardian, on BBC Radio 3 and for the BFI. As an educator he is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and has taught at the University of Gloucestershire, Hereford College of Arts and the University of Warwick. James is currently a Visiting Lecturer at the London Film School. ?James’s books include the recently published?Through Her Lens: The Stories Behind the Photography of Eva Sereny?(ACC Books),?The Year of the Geek?(Aurum Press) and?Bodies in Heroic Motion: The Cinema of James Cameron?(Columbia University Press). James also writes A Level Film Studies resources for Edusites and has been a consultant to the British Council, writing and producing content on the subject of various literary icons.

Mayflower Street runs between Jamaica Road and the Thames in Bermondsey, South London. In 1939, 34 houses and 121 residents occupied the street. Between 1940 and 1941 bombs fell on 7 of these houses and at the end of war, the street – with its corner shop, was demolished. Using personal testimony, physical theatre and the combined skills of a cast of contemporary Londoners the project aims to share some of the experiences and events that made our city into the place we know today. Blackbirds is the play that emerged from the London Bubble Theatre's research and interviews of South Londoners who lived through the Blitz between 1940 and 1941.

Classic Plays by Women: an anthology of the best plays by female dramatists from 1600-2000 Staged in theatres by successive generations and proving relevant to contemporary audiences, the plays demonstrate the wit, theatrical skill and innovation of their creators in exploring timeless topics from marriage, morality and money to class conflict, rage and sexual desire. An essential resource for students, playwrights, colleges, universities and libraries, this collection also provides theatres with the opportunity to programme a range of theatrical classics by women. Plays from: Hroswitha’s Paphnutius (extract); Elizabeth Cary’s The Tragedy of Mariam(extract); Aphra Behn’s The Rover; Susanna Centlivre’s A Bold Stroke For A Wife; Joanna Baillie’s De Montfort; Githa Sowerby’s Rutherford and Son; Enid Bagnold’s The Chalk Garden; Caryl Churchill’s Top Girls (extract); Marie Jones’ Stones in his Pockets. ?

A fascinating look at the world of music from French Late-Romantic composer, organist, conductor, and pianist Camille Saint-Saens, most famous for his Carnival of the Animals and Danse Macabre.