This interesting book about Rembrandt and his paintings was first written in 1905, and is just as enjoyable today. Featuring colour prints of 16 of his best paintings, this excellent introduction to one of the world's most famous painters is a great addition to any e-book collection. This version has been specially formatted for today's e-readers by Andrews UK.

Maria Lawson rose to fame on the hit TV show The X Factor in 2005 but had already enjoyed some success as a singer/songwriter prior to this, having secured a recording and publishing contract through her own efforts and determination to break into the music industry. Life Starts Now follows Maria's journey from hopeful unknown, through the audition process and beyond to her appearance on a major national television show, taking the reader behind the scenes to find out what really goes on inside the hit show. This fascinating autobiography documents Maria's early life and explains how this ambitious young girl from a humble background fulfilled her dream of TV stardom and recording success. In this honest and heart warming account, Maria explains how she coped with the transition from obscurity to a life in the limelight only to come close to losing everything she worked so hard to achieve. More recently, Maria has emerged stronger than ever, having overcome past setbacks to release an exciting second album Emotional Rollercoaster and has secured a record deal with a new label. The birth of her son has meant that she now has to fit her busy schedule around her most important role as a mother. This book is not only an inspirational story, proving that it is possible for anyone to achieve their dreams, it is also a practical self help guide offering pregnancy and life skills advice based on Maria's own experiences as an artist, businesswoman and new mum.

What is special about the double bass compared to all other string instruments? What is the difference between a xylophone and a glockenspiel? How long is the tubing that makes up a trumpet? And what is the name of the world's oldest surviving violin? All of these questions and more are answered in this introductory guide to the instruments featured in the modern symphony orchestra. With sections covering strings, brass, woodwind, percussion and keyboard instruments, as well as additional information about the history and structure of the orchestra, this is a fascinating book for children and adults alike.

Are you a snooker fan? Do you play regularly? Are you familiar with the rules and terminology of snooker? Would you like to know more about the professional players who make the game look so easy? If you answered yes to any of these questions you won't want to be without 101 Things You May Not Have Known About Snooker.Do you know how snooker got its name, who is the only player so far to have won the world title at junior, amateur and professional level or which five players have achieved a maximum 147 break at the World Professional Snooker Championships? This fascinating new book has the answers, along with everything you ever wanted to know about snooker, including all the top snooker players past and present, their nicknames, history of the game, championship winners and losers and much more.This book is a must-have for all those who enjoy watching or taking part in this game of skill and would like to learn more about the professional circuit.

Are you the world's biggest Nicole Richie fan? Or do you want to know everything there is to know about the fashion designer, author and reality TV star? If so, then this is the book for you! Contained within are over one hundred facts about everything, from her unusual upbringing to her on/off friendship with Paris Hilton, her relationships, fashion lines and much, much more. The book is easily organised into sections so you can find the information you want fast and is perfect for all ages!

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.

Bowie and Hutch Story

Are you a Kylie Minogue fan? Have you followed the pint size pop princess's long and successful career from Neighbours actress to chart topping singing sensation? Can you name all of her albums? Were you aware that Kylie had written a children's book and can you reel off the title of her autobiography? Do you know exactly how tall she is? If so then this quiz book is just what you need to find out how much you really know about Kylie. This fun tribute contains 100 thought provoking questions about the multi award winning superstar and covers all aspects of Kylie's life, including TV and film appearances, world tours, chart positions, accolades and personal details. You are certain to find out something new about your favourite songster so be prepared for one or two surprises. Packed with fascinating facts, The Kylie Minogue Quiz Book is as informative as it is entertaining and is a must have for all music fans. If you like Kylie you will love this book.

Are you a fan of The Beatles? Have you followed the amazing Beatles story from the early days of the band through to individual chart success? Do you know all there is to know about the fab four? If so, what better way to test your knowledge than with the 500 questions in this quiz book, each one designed to find out how much you can recall about the history of The Beatles.This book covers the phenomenal success of the early years through to the band members' individual careers, relationships, families and beyond. The Beatles Quiz Book is packed with information about John, Paul, George and Ringo, including questions on many of their unforgettable hits, bestselling albums, song lyrics and much more.This quiz book is a must-have for anyone who likes the Beatles whether you are new to their music or are a lifelong fan. This tribute will appeal to fans of all ages and anyone interested in finding out about one of the most successful UK bands of all time.

So you think you know all about Lady Gaga from her early successes through to her current domination of the world music scene? But do you know her real name or how she got started in the music business? What about the lyrics to her songs or the influences behind her distinctive fashion choices? Find out how much you really know about the unique Ms Gaga with the 100 challenging questions in this brilliant quiz book. This book is packed with fascinating facts that cover all aspects of the singer-songwriter's life from chart topping hits, memorable lyrics, awards and accolades to less well known personal details, so you are sure to learn something new about your favourite pop star. The Lady Gaga Quiz Book is a fitting tribute to the woman who has taken the music industry by storm and in 2010 was dubbed by Forbes as one of the most powerful celebrities in the world today. There is only one Lady Gaga and this is the must-have reference guide for all of her fans.

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.

Compiled by acclaimed television scriptwriter and novelist Dean Wilkinson, The Classic Children's Television Quiz Book is packed with fascinating facts about the shows you loved as a child as well as those programmes currently capturing the imagination of today's young audiences. From timeless classics like Thunderbirds, Blue Peter and Dr Who to the thoroughly up-to-date Sponge Bob, the 1,000 questions in this book will not only test your memory of the characters you grew up with but your family's knowledge of their current favourites. With a fitting foreword by popular family TV presenters Ant and Dec this book is sure to prove a hit with television lovers of all ages and, in particular, those members of the older generation who have remained young at heart.

The A-Z of Atari ST Games: Volume 2 features reviews of three different games for each letter of the alphabet. The games range from the very earliest releases in the mid 80s to the modern homebrew games of today. This book shows you just how diverse the library of titles is for the Atari ST range and how it became one of the most popular home computers of all time.

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.

Have you ever wondered what it is like to work on a film set? Are you curious to know what goes on behind the scenes of your favourite TV series? If so, you are certain to enjoy this 'fly-on-wall' account of life as a film and TV extra. Written by Harry 'Aitch' Fielder who spent over 30 years working in the film and TV industry, appearing in over 800 productions, this book will give you an insight to the life of an 'extra'. Over the years, the author has been involved with some of the UK's best-loved TV programmes from Z-Cars and The Saint through to Silent Witness and EastEnders as well as many blockbuster films such as Star Wars and Raiders of the Lost Ark. In this candid account Harry spills the beans about some of the well-known characters he has worked with including Alfred Hitchcock, Laurence Olivier and the great James Cagney. Extra, Extra, Read All About It is a must-have book for all film and TV fans and anyone interested in finding out what really happens on set.

101 Amazing Benedict Cumberbatch Facts

Are you a fan of Sherlock Holmes? Do you want to know some incredible trivia about the world's greatest detective? Whether it is Benedict Cumberbatch in the BBC's Sherlock that you enjoy, or Robert Downey Junior's portrayal in the film series that piques your interest, this fantastic book of facts from Jack Goldstein and Jimmy Russell is sure to be an excellent addition to your bookshelf. With sections covering adaptations of the stories, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and of course the most amazing and unbelievable facts, this is the perfect way to find out more about the best-selling hero.

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.

A fascinating look at the history of painting and sculpture in France by American journalist and literary critic W. C. Brownell.