Book review blog site, with some entertainment material from time-to-time.
Saturday, 29 November 2025
That's Christmas 365: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Christmas Gifts for...
That's Christmas 365: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Christmas Gifts for...: Discover the best Christmas gift ideas for Star Trek fans, from collectables and books to clothing, tech and budget-friendly treats that wil...
Thursday, 27 November 2025
That's Christmas 365: Discounts for foodie guides!
That's Christmas 365: Discounts for foodie guides!: The Coastal Café Guide, The Extra Mile – Delicious Alternatives to Motorway Services and The Farm Shop Guide are all now available at specia...
That's Christmas 365: Why a Weekly Country Life Subscription Might Be th...
That's Christmas 365: Why a Weekly Country Life Subscription Might Be th...: When you’re searching for a Christmas gift that feels thoughtful, personal, and genuinely useful long after the wrapping paper has been recy...
Wednesday, 26 November 2025
That's Christmas 365: How to Make Extra Money for Christmas by Selling Y...
That's Christmas 365: How to Make Extra Money for Christmas by Selling Y...: If you’re looking to top up your festive spending pot, your bookshelves could be hiding a small treasure trove. Selling unwanted books is o...
Norfolk Archaeological Trust Appoints Professor Will Bowden as President
Professor Bowden brings a wealth of expertise and passion for heritage, with a distinguished career in Roman archaeology and community engagement.
Currently Professor of Roman Archaeology at the University of Nottingham, Will has led major research projects across Europe and the UK, including extensive work at Caistor St Edmund as part of the Caistor Roman Project. His research has transformed understanding of Roman towns and their development, and he is committed to making archaeology accessible to all.
Speaking about his appointment, Professor Bowden said: “I am honoured to take on the role of President at NAT. Norfolk’s archaeological heritage is extraordinary, and I look forward to working with the Trust and local communities to ensure these sites are protected and celebrated for generations to come.”
Jonathan Sisson, Chair of the Board of Trustees, told That's Books and Entertainment: “Will’s leadership and expertise will be invaluable as we continue our mission to safeguard Norfolk’s historic sites and share their stories with everyone.”
The Norfolk Archaeological Trust, founded in 1923, owns some of the county’s most iconic historic monuments, including Caistor Roman Town, Burgh Castle Fort, and St Benet’s Abbey. The Trust works closely with local communities to conserve these irreplaceable sites and make them accessible for everyone.
For more information about NAT and its work, visit www.norfarchtrust.org.uk
Tuesday, 25 November 2025
That's Christmas 365: Unearth the Perfect Christmas Gift for the Archaeo...
That's Christmas 365: Unearth the Perfect Christmas Gift for the Archaeo...: When Christmas rolls around, finding the perfect gift for the history-lover or archaeology fan in your life can feel a bit tricky. But if th...
Time Team returns to Orkney to reveal groundbreaking new discoveries at the Ness of Brodgar
During summer 2024, Time Team filmed the final season of excavation at the Ness of Brodgar - a vast complex of monumental Neolithic buildings set between the iconic Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar in Mainland, Orkney.
The trenches have now been backfilled, but the investigation did not stop there. In partnership with the Ness team, Time Team carried out a final phase of cutting-edge geophysical survey across the entire site.
For Time Team’s Dr John Gater, it was “like coming home”. Over 20 years ago, his early geophysical work was key to identifying the astonishing settlement that would later captivate the world as the Ness of Brodgar.
This time, the results of the Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) survey, carried out in collaboration with Guideline Geo and SUMO GeoSurveys, surpassed even the team’s highest hopes.
A major new discovery — “We weren’t expecting that!"
”The survey has revealed the positions of multiple previously unknown Neolithic buildings - some of them monumental in scale - expanding the known footprint of the complex and offering a deeper understanding of its development over five thousand years ago.
But one discovery stood apart.
“We weren’t expecting that,” said Director Nick Card.
“The new buildings are fascinating,” added Anne Mitchell, “but there’s one feature unlike anything we’ve seen so far.”
“Oh dear,” laughed Mark Edmonds. “Perhaps I shouldn’t have buried my trowel on site.”
The findings have raised the possibility that - even after two decades of excavation - the Ness still holds secrets that require a final, targeted look.
Time Team will join the Ness team in summer 2026 for one more excavation season, culminating in a Time Team special to be broadcast later in 2026.
A partnership two decades in the making
The relationship with Orkney is long-standing, stretching back to A Viking boat burial on Sanday in 1998, the enigmatic Iron Age site at Mine Howe in 2000 and more recently at Swandro on Rousay in 2025. The Ness of Brodgar has been a defining project for modern archaeology, drawing international attention and reshaping our understanding of Neolithic Britain.
Tim Taylor, Creator and Executive Producer of Time Team, told That's Books and Entertainment: “We’ve been privileged to follow the Ness story for over 20 years. To return now - at the end of its excavation phase - and to contribute new discoveries of this scale is extraordinary. The Ness continues to surprise us all.”
Time Team’s recent renaissance, driven by one of the world’s largest global online audiences for archaeology, has enabled the team to reconnect with sites of exceptional importance. Their expansion of the classic three-day format into long-form documentaries - including recent work at Sutton Hoo and major projects across the UK - has brought a new level of depth, analysis, and public engagement to their investigations.
A site of global significance
Tens of thousands of visitors travel to Orkney each summer to witness the excavations before they closed in 2024.
Time Team’s new documentary will share this final chapter - with expert insights, reconstructed models, geophysics visualisations, and exclusive interviews with the Ness of Brodgar team.
What’s next
Time Team’s films will explore:
the final season of excavation at the Ness
the emotional close of two decades of fieldwork
the new geophysical discoveries
what they reveal about life, ritual, and architecture 5,000 years ago
the new month long excavation in 2026
This will be one of the most significant Neolithic investigations Time Team has ever released.
https://www.nessofbrodgar.co.uk/
Incidentally over the years Time Team has published more learned works on archaeological digs than some university archaeology departments!
Music for Dementia and the University of Sheffield convened industry roundtable to address "forgotten generation" locked out of music
They brought together technology manufacturers, accessibility experts, record labels, radio professionals and dementia sector leaders to tackle critical barriers preventing older adults and people living with dementia from accessing music.
The Music Made Easy Roundtable, held at children’s audio platform Yoto’s HQ in London, represents the first in a series of industry events run by Music for Dementia to support their Music Made Easy campaign, launched in September 2025 to challenge accessibility gaps across the music and technology sector.
The event convened more than 19 senior representatives including Universal Music Group, BPI, BBC, Music for Dementia partner Yoto and leading independent advocates – alongside research experts from the University of Sheffield's BRIDGES for Dementia Network, which focuses on designing and applying technology to empower people with dementia.
Discussions centred on device accessibility, platform design, the need to co-design alongside lived experience advisors and the commercial and cultural case for prioritising older audiences.
Participants explored critical questions: How can we ensure people living with dementia are integrated into the design process from day one? How can we change licensing restrictions to support easy access to music? How can we better communicate existing tools and support? Most importantly: how can we work together to drive progress?
The roundtable discussion revealed that there are pockets of real progress being made by individual organisations and sectors, yet everyone agreed that it would take industry collaboration to create real progress. To this end Music for Dementia and The University of Sheffield will be spearheading a new taskforce to improve music accessibility for people living with dementia.
Karim Fanous, Director, Innovation and New Digital Business, Global Digital Strategy at Universal Music Group said: “Music for wellness and health is a vital area in our search for startups and support of entrepreneurial innovation that might add value to music and society.
"Music for Dementia and the University of Sheffield are initiating an important multi-stakeholder project which we will be honoured to support alongside UMG Health and Wellness.”
Emily Ingram, General Manager, Sollos, UMG Health and Wellness said: “Music can be an enjoyable and effective way to improve lives, whether it’s for people living with dementia or struggling with everyday stress and low mood. Accessibility matters, and UMG’s Sound Therapy project on Apple Music, alongside our in-house Sollos research programme, are key components of our ongoing efforts to make these benefits more widely available.
"Through Sollos and our health and wellness partners, we are starting to see what is possible when music, science and technology come together. Music for Dementia is driving vital progress and we are proud to support it.”
Aleksandra Gojkovic, Senior Design Researcher, User Experience and Design at BBC said: “A big thank you to Music for Dementia and all contributors for sharing their insights, research and work and for facilitating an open and productive conversation about such an important issue of making music more accessible. At the BBC, universality is at the heart of what we do. Ensuring that everyone can experience and enjoy the power of music is an important part of that mission.”
Hailey Willington, BPI Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, said: “Music for Dementia's roundtable brought together the music ecosystem, from record labels to people with lived experience, to explore the barriers preventing people living with dementia from accessing the music that matters to them. Music should be accessible to all, and by working together, we can redefine what accessible music technology looks like and ensure that it can serve everyone, not just digital natives."
Howard Gordon, Chair of Meeting Centres England, Co-Chair of Deepness Dementia Media Ltd, and advisor from BRIDGES for Dementia Network, said: "In the words of Ronald Coleman ‘true co-production starts with a plain piece of paper.’ People living with dementia should drive co-production of new product designs from the start. They know what's needed better than anyone. They are rights holders and human beings, and shouldn’t be defined by their diagnosis."
Recent Music for Dementia research with 1,000 family carers of people living with dementia reveals the scale of the problem: only 3 in 10 older family carers are able to stream music with their loved one. Age UK research paints a similar picture – they found that 6 in 10 internet users aged 65 or over never use the internet to stream music or videos.
"The generation that created popular music is now increasingly locked out of it," says Amy Shackleton, Programme Lead, Music for Dementia. "This important roundtable event challenged attendees with a fundamental question: what is needed to make music more accessible for older people, especially those living with dementia that need it the most? The answer is clear – we need cross-sector collaboration, better design practices and a commitment to co-production with users and carers.
“I’m really encouraged by our first Music Made Easy industry roundtable event. There was real energy and passion from attendees to improve access to music for older people. We went in wanting a commitment from people to join a new taskforce, and we are really pleased that so many want to be part of this journey.”
The roundtable included findings from Music for Dementia’s Yoto Player trial, which adapted the popular children’s audio player for people living with dementia. It found 92% of participating families would recommend screen-free music devices for older people.
Dr Jennifer MacRitchie also presented the co-designed devices and research findings from the Music, Dementia, Technology project at the University of Sheffield. Here, people living with dementia were involved in developing devices for playback of familiar music, devices for creating new music, and for improvising along with a musical jamming partner, reflecting the diversity and breadth of technology possibilities.
In the UK there are 940,000 people living with dementia, and this figure is projected to rise to 1.5million by 2040. Research shows music can alleviate agitation and distress, support identity and self-hood, bring back memories and even abilities thought lost, create moments of connection and joy and overcome isolation.
https://www.musicfordementia.org.uk/music-made-easy
To learn more about the amazing Yoto players please visit https://thatschristmas.blogspot.com/2025/09/the-yoto-player-and-yoto-mini-world-of.html
New crime novel with a menopausal twist
Madeleine Batten, the main character of Little Secrets, is experiencing several menopausal symptoms while she’s attempting to solve a 20-year-old murder-mystery at The Panbrook Prison Hotel.
“I wanted Madeleine to be believable and seem very real,” Victoria Goldman told That's Books and Entertainment.
“She’s in her early 50s, and around three-quarters of women will be experiencing some menopausal symptoms at this time of life.
"Madeleine is a hard-working hotel manager and an organised perfectionist, attempting to juggle a hectic workload and the needs of her soon-to-be-married daughter, as many women do when they’re in their 40s and 50s.
"Added into the mix is the hotel’s 10th anniversary weekend, a true-crime controversy that’s divided the media for the past 20 years, and an array of hotel guests to please (and suspect of murder and mayhem). Little Secrets is ultimately a crime novel, so obviously nothing goes to plan…”
Little Secrets is a compelling, atmospheric locked-room mystery set in a former prison that's been converted into a luxury hotel. In 1999, a prison nurse at HMP Panbrook was accused of the murders of five prisoners. But was she innocent – or was she guilty? To discover the truth, we need to head back to the past… Little Secrets is ideal for fans of Sarah Pearse, Lucy Foley, Ruth Ware and Claire Douglas.
‘A rollercoaster ride you will not forget! Ingenious and intriguing from start to finish.’ – Janice Hallett, award-winning British author of several mystery novels including The Appeal.
Victoria Goldman has been editing The Menopause Exchange newsletter since its launch. She is an experienced health journalist and editor, including Freelance Health Editor for Bupa, and copyedits and proofreads fiction and non-fiction books for UK publishers and authors.
She has a Biomedical Science BSc. and an MSc. in Science Communication, with specialist expertise in writing evidence-based health information for companies, charities, magazines and websites. She has written two other crime novels, The Redeemer and The Associate, which was the Editor’s Choice Winner of Best Indie Novel of 2023 in the Crime Fiction Lover Awards.
You can buy the book here https://amzn.to/3Ko9F3B
Learn about The Menopause Exchange here: http://www.menopause-exchange.co.uk. You can also find them on Facebook and Twitter/X (@MenopauseExch).
We feel this book will be a fantastic Christmas gift for any mystery lover, male or female.
Wednesday, 19 November 2025
That's Christmas 365: Is Die Hard a Christmas Movie? Let’s Settle This O...
That's Christmas 365: Is Die Hard a Christmas Movie? Let’s Settle This O...: There are few festive debates as enduring, or as enthusiastically argued, as the annual question: Is Die Hard a Christmas movie? Every Dece...
Monday, 3 November 2025
That's Christmas 365: Book Review: Upon a White Horse by Peter Ross – A ...
That's Christmas 365: Book Review: Upon a White Horse by Peter Ross – A ...: As the year draws to its close and the days darken, many of us crave quiet reflection and connection with our roots. Upon a White Horse: Jo...
Tuesday, 28 October 2025
That's Christmas 365: North Wales Dad Turns Son into Storybook Hero — 12...
That's Christmas 365: North Wales Dad Turns Son into Storybook Hero — 12...: Every parent has told a bedtime story. Craig Darren Read went one step further, he turned his four-year-old son into the hero of one. His de...
Wednesday, 15 October 2025
New Book Reveals the Secrets to Brilliant Public Speaking and Media Communication
Award winning business publisher LID Publishing has announced the launch of How to Be Utterly Brilliant at Public Speaking, Presenting and Talking to the Media, a first-of-its-kind practical guide to presentation and public speaking skills.
It’s the debut book by Benjamin Thiele-Long, a barrister and communications consultant with over two decades of experience as a trusted advisor to business leaders of some of the world’s largest companies.
Thiele-Long brings his unique experience to life, cutting straight to the point with practical and immediately applicable advice and examples on how to be an excellent communicator in keynotes, panels, pitches, and to the press.
“Those who can express their ideas with persuasion, conviction, and clarity stand out as compelling leaders and visionaries within their organizations and industries”Benjamin Thiele-Lon told That's Books and Entertainment.
“This book distils over 20 years’ experience to demonstrate that far from an innate talent, being brilliant at presenting, pitching, and speaking to the media are all learnable skills based on tried and tested principles that everyone can apply.”
With a career spanning time as a courtroom advocate, PR agency leader, and Chief Communications Officer, Benjamin Thiele-Long is a respected industry expert known for his uniquely no-nonsense, practical, and relatable approach to presentation and media training that instils the confidence to turn anyone into a compelling and persuasive speaker.
Advance praise for How to Be Utterly Brilliant at Public Speaking, Presenting and Talking to the Media.
Miguel Patricio, Board Chair and former CEO of Kraft Heinz said: “This is an essential resource for every business leader, full of the indispensable advice and practical skills necessary to become an exceptional and influential communicator.”
Kathy Krenger, Award-winning international Chief Communications Officer and Brand Builder: “An outstanding book unlike any other, packed with clear and compelling advice and examples that get straight to the point, are easy to apply, and delivered in a personable and digestible way.”
R. Michael Mohan, Board Chair and former President and COO of Best Buy: “Addressing the right audience with the right message, at the right time, is critical for any business leader, and more important than ever. This book reinforces that with great examples and validates the importance of enabling a great communications team.”
Barney Thompson, Editor and writer at the United Nations, former journalist and editor at The Financial Times: “Smart, snappy, insightful, informed by a wealth of personal experience (triumphs and disasters), unflinchingly honest, wise, practical – a superb guide to communicating with a wide range of audiences, from colleagues to the media to the general public. Indispensable both for those facing the cameras and for those preparing them.”
Apart from C-suite leaders and anyone who wants to turbocharge their career by improving their communication skills, How to be Utterly Brilliant at Public Speaking, Presenting and Talking to the Media is also aimed at communications advisors, who can use it as a resource when briefing their clients on any public appearances.
It's not about theoretical jargon; it's about real-world techniques, exercises and examples that empower you to craft compelling content, deliver impactful presentations, and navigate pitches and panels, all with a unique blend of communications expertise and a healthy dose of humour.
The book's concise, snappy sections make it easy to quickly find the needed advice need, while real-world examples and exercises bring the principles to life. The book equips the reader with the fundamental building blocks and practical tools to become an utterly brilliant communicator.
How to be Utterly Brilliant at Public Speaking, Presenting and Talking to the Media is published on 30th October 2025 by LID Publishing, available as paperback and e-book.
You can pre-order it here at £9.99 https://amzn.to/4hbOX2V
Tuesday, 14 October 2025
That's Christmas 365: Helping the BookTrust Bring the Joy of Reading to ...
That's Christmas 365: Helping the BookTrust Bring the Joy of Reading to ...: There’s something truly magical about giving the gift of a book at Christmas. Between the sparkle of fairy lights and the rustle of wrappin...
Friday, 10 October 2025
Step Through Story and Legend at Butser BookFest 2025
Step into a world where myth meets history and stories come alive among reconstructed ancient buildings!
On the 18th and 19th of October, the much-loved Butser BookFest returns for another vibrant weekend at Butser Ancient Farm celebrating literature, history, folklore and fantasy - all set within the extraordinary landscape of the South Downs and an open-air experimental archaeology site.
This year’s festival invites readers, bestselling authors, families and dreamers to immerse themselves in storytelling, poetry, and performance inspired by nature and myth. Wander between Roman villas, roundhouses and Saxon meadhalls as you hear from bestselling authors, take part in creative workshops or be transported to the ancient past through the rhythm of live music, the warmth of the hearth and a shared love of words and imagination.
Highlights of Butser BookFest 2025 are set to include:
Inspiring author talks and book signings: Hear from bestselling writers including Conn Iggulden, Samantha Shannon, Elodie Harper, Amy Jeffs and Lucy Holland as they discuss weaving history, myth, and magic into unforgettable tales. Afterwards, meet your favourite authors at their roundhouse bookshop hosted by Waterstones.
Creative workshops and hands-on activities: Join immersive writing and storytelling workshops, craft your own lino-print bookmark, browse visiting traders, try your hand at archery or explore the Forgotten Fleece Tales exhibition.
Children's sessions and workshops: There’s something for the whole family to enjoy with a huge range of activities at the festival, including an engaging children’s writing workshop led by award-winning author Angela McAllister and a hands-on session with poetry and drawing hosted by bestselling children's writer Smriti Halls. Families can take part in storytelling sessions and outdoor activities that spark imagination and creativity for all ages.
Festival founder and organiser Sofie Kitts told That's Book and Entertainment: "Nothing brings historically inspired fantasy and fiction, folklore and nature writing to life quite like celebrating it a setting such as ours, surrounded by the rolling South Downs and thatched roofs of Saxon meadhalls and ancient roundhouses.
Butser Book Festival is more than just a celebration of books - it's an opportunity to experience the magic of stories ancient and new in an inspiring setting, making it the perfect weekend for families, bookworms, craft-lovers and writers alike.
Book your tickets now! Don’t miss out on this extraordinary festival at Butser Ancient Farm. Purchase tickets, book in-depth workshops, and explore the full programme here: https://www.butserancientfarm.co.uk/butser-literary-book-festival. Advance booking is strongly advised as spaces for workshops are limited.
If you have bookworms to buy for we suggest you visit the Butser BookFest to pick up some fantastic Christmas gifts.
That's Christmas 365: Unveiling the Past: A Mink Coat in St Neots by Liz...
That's Christmas 365: Unveiling the Past: A Mink Coat in St Neots by Liz...: In her latest book, A Mink Coat in St Neots, Liz Hodgkinson delves into the intriguing story of a mysterious woman who frequented her mother...
That's Christmas 365: Upon a White Horse by Peter Ross – A Thoughtful Ch...
That's Christmas 365: Upon a White Horse by Peter Ross – A Thoughtful Ch...: As Christmas approaches and we begin the annual search for the perfect gift – something meaningful, not mass-produced, something that will l...
Friday, 3 October 2025
That's Christmas 365: Leading Drinks Educator Releases Knowledge Box Ser...
That's Christmas 365: Leading Drinks Educator Releases Knowledge Box Ser...: Jane Peyton , founder of the School of Booze and former drinks educator of the year has released three new books to educate readers in fund...
Wednesday, 1 October 2025
Coneygree Visits the West End
The retired racehorse Coneygree will make a special appearance at the premiere screening event for ITV’s Champions: Full Gallop, Season Two.
2015 Cheltenham Gold Cup winner, Coneygree will reunite on the red carpet with jockey, Nico de Boinville who features in the second season of the behind-the-scenes style docuseries that airs this October.
The equine star will have a special stable and his own red carpet, welcoming guests ahead of premiere screening at BAFTA on Thursday evening. Passersby will also have the chance to meet the racehorses.
Other attendees include TV Personality, Chris Hughes and jockeys including former Champion Jockeys Harry Skelton, Harry Cobden and Brian Hughes, as well as current Champion Jockey Sean Bowen and 2025 Grand National winner, Patrick Mullins. Trainers who feature in the upcoming six-part docuseries will also be in attendance Champions: Full Gallop will air mid-October on ITV1 and ITVX.
Friday, 26 September 2025
That's Christmas 365: Why Nostalgic Christmas Gifts Are Big This Year
That's Christmas 365: Why Nostalgic Christmas Gifts Are Big This Year: Every Christmas brings its own trends. Some years it’s all about the latest tech, others it’s wellness hampers, or eco-friendly stocking fil...
Thursday, 25 September 2025
Remember When: My Life With Alzheimer’s by Fiona Phillips
The narrative follows the gradual emergence of symptoms: brain fog, anxiety, mood swings, memory lapses. At first, Fiona and those around her (including Fiona herself) attribute many of these to menopause, stress, or depression.
There is also a strong concern with her family history: Alzheimer’s has affected her mother, father, paternal grandparents and an uncle. This background gives extra emotional weight.
What works especially well
Honesty & emotional rawness
The power of this memoir lies very much in Fiona Phillips’s openness about how disorienting Alzheimer’s can be. She doesn’t shy away from the shame, fear, frustration — not just at the disease’s advance but at its early signs and how those are misunderstood. This feels genuine and helps the book avoid sentimentality.
Dual perspective
Having contributions from her husband Martin helps the reader see what it’s like from the partner/carer’s side. That perspective adds depth: the bewilderment, the guilt, the responsibility, the grief of “losing someone while they’re still alive.” It underlines that Alzheimer’s isn’t just a disease of the person diagnosed but has wide ripples.
Structure that mirrors decline
The way the book traces early years with clarity, then shows the creeping effects of Alzheimer’s — the early memory loss, the difficulty in naming things, losing recent memories while older ones remain — gives readers a sense of what the progression feels like from inside. That gives the book its emotional force.
Raising awareness & destigmatising
Fiona Phillips clearly intends this as more than a personal memoir. She wants to use her story to help others recognise early symptoms, reduce shame, and draw attention to how limited the support system is. That purpose comes through.
Difficult truths & where the book challenges the reader
The narrative is painful in places — not just the eventual decline, but the moments of misunderstanding, of misattributed symptoms, of miscommunication in her own marriage and family life. This is not a light read. It forces one to confront how society handles dementia, especially in younger people, and how ill-prepared institutions are for early onset cases.
There's an ambiguity in the end: as Fiona’s illness progresses, her husband’s voice becomes more prominent in telling the story. It’s inevitable in this context, but it raises hard questions about identity and authorship: how much of “her” story is now mediated by others. Some readers might find that transition unsettling, but understandable under the circumstances.
The lack of a neat “hopeful” resolution. Alzheimer’s has no cure; the book doesn’t pretend otherwise. The reality is ongoing decline, loss, uncertainty. But the memoir’s strength is in its refusal to gloss over that.
Remember When is an important and courageous book. It’s not just for those who know someone with Alzheimer’s — though it’ll certainly help them — but for all of us, because it highlights what is often overlooked: that Alzheimer’s isn’t only an illness of old age, or something that only happens “to someone else.”
Fiona Phillips’s story reminds us how easily warning signs can be dismissed, how vulnerable the self becomes, and how care, love and dignity matter immensely. She shows us both the resilience that people can muster and the heartbreak that comes with watching someone change before your eyes.
It’s a difficult read, but necessary.
The book is available in hardback at £22, but is available from Amazon at £12.50. It is published by Macmillan.
Tuesday, 23 September 2025
That's Christmas 365: Why Smart Shoppers Should Use the That’s Christmas...
That's Christmas 365: Why Smart Shoppers Should Use the That’s Christmas...: For many of us, Christmas shopping is equal parts joy and stress. There’s the excitement of choosing the perfect gifts and decorations , b...
The Royal Butler by Grant Harrold — A UK Lens on Life Behind the Palace Doors
It’s a story of aspiration, discipline, and the unlikely closeness that can exist between servants and the very highest levels of society. Harrold offers a unique vantage point, having served King Charles III (when Prince of Wales), Queen Camilla, and others at Highgrove House in the Cotswolds.
From Childhood Dream to Royal Service
One of the strongest threads through the book is Harrold’s lifelong fascination with royalty. He grew up dreaming not just of meeting the Royals, but of working behind the scenes — of joining that world of etiquette, tradition, and quiet service.
He describes humble beginnings, his early jobs in service (cleaning, polishing, preparing), and the training (both formal and on-the-job) required to become a butler. The preparation is rigorous, often unseen, and demands both humility and constant attention to detail. It’s not glamorous all the time — but for Harrold, it’s a vocation.
Life at Highgrove: Tradition, Humanity, and Moments of Magic
Harrold paints Highgrove not simply as a stately home, but as a living workplace, full of people with personalities, friendships, and quirks. It’s easy to assume that everything royal is staid and formal; one of the pleasures of the memoir is seeing how often humour, kindness, and humanity peep through.
Some memorable anecdotes:
Harrold recalls his first meeting with the late Queen Elizabeth II at a banquet and how nerves, formality, and the pressure of doing things “right” were intense. There’s a real sense of what it means to suddenly be in close quarters with someone so revered.
He also recounts observing moments in the lives of Prince William and Kate Middleton before they became the Prince and Princess of Wales — dinners, conversations, and the growth of a relationship that would eventually become public and central. Harrold observes how their behaviour signalled their deepening commitment.
Etiquette, Change & Modernising Traditions
Although steeped in tradition, The Royal Butler does not pretend that nothing changes. Harrold reflects on how younger royals adopt a more relaxed style in certain contexts, how public-facing demeanors are evolving, and how etiquette itself must adapt for modern times.
For example, the younger members of the Royal Family are more willing to interact informally, to break strict protocols in ways that build warmth or accessibility. Harrold seems to view this change positively: a sign that tradition can coexist with approachability.
What the Book Offers (and What It Doesn’t)
What it does offer:
Insight into daily ritual. The real work of royal service — preparing meals, setting tables, managing staff relations, polishing silver, anticipating needs — all these are shown in detail. This gives a sense of respect for the work behind the scenes.
Humanity at the heart of hierarchy. Despite being “in service” to people of great formality and protocol, Harrold’s stories emphasise that Royals are people too — with kindnesses, small mistakes, expectations, and warmth.
An aspirational journey. Harrold’s story reminds us that dreams sometimes start small, and that perseverance, attention to craft, and humility matter.
What it does not offer (or less of):
Scandal or major gossip. While there are revealing moments, the memoir is less about juicy royal intrigue and more about the rhythms, challenges, and small victories of service. The tone is respectful, not sensationalist.
A focus on political or constitutional critique. The book is personal; it is not about how the monarchy should or shouldn’t be run.
Themes & Reflections
Service and vocation. Harrold treats butlering not just as a job, but as a calling. There’s pride in doing things well, in knowing the rituals, in making sure no detail is overlooked.
Bridging worlds. He moves between contrasting social spheres — growing up in Scotland, doing manual service work, then entering an elite environment. That creates tension but also perspective: what does it mean to serve, to observe, to learn the unspoken codes of behaviour?
Tradition vs modernity. How do ancient protocols survive in a changing world? Harrold offers hope that tradition can adapt without losing integrity.
Respect, humility & dignity. The key qualities for service. Not just about knowing how to polish silver or lay a table, but treating people with respect, remembering small personal details, being present (even when invisible), and doing the small things well.
For Whom This Book Will Appeal
Anyone fascinated by the monarchy and what life behind the scenes might look like.
Readers interested in etiquette, service professions, hospitality, and rituals.
Those drawn to memoirs of people who start in modest circumstances and find paths to very different worlds—but remain grounded.
People who enjoy personal stories rather than gossip-filled exposes.
Conclusion
The Royal Butler is a quietly compelling memoir. It doesn't promise royal secrets, but it delivers something arguably rarer: a window into what it actually takes to be part of the machinery, tradition, and humanity of the Royal Household. For all its formality and centuries-old protocols, the heart of the book is still about people — their humility, their kindnesses, their mistakes, and the love that service can inspire.
Grant Harrold has shown that behind the silver polish, the fine china, the formality, there is a deeply human world. And that is worth reading.
Published by Orion Books £22.00 in hardback. However, if you order here: https://amzn.to/4pD4ah8 you'll be able to buy it on Amazon for £11.23 in hardback, £10.99 in paperback and £12.99 in Kindle, for instant access. This is via the That's Books and Entertainment online bookshop.
My wife who is not a Royalist, said: "This was an amazing book, it really shows the human side of the members of the Royal family. I think this will make a great Christmas gift for Royalists and also for people like me who love to read non-fiction biographical books."
Tuesday, 16 September 2025
Lapidus International Publishing Launches with Poetry Anthology Celebrating Marginalised Voices
Its inaugural project, Flight, is a vibrant poetry anthology that brings together powerful work from writers affiliated with three Bristol-based organisations: Misfits Theatre Company (led by people with learning disabilities), Diverse UK (supporting autistic adults), and Bristol Drugs Project’s Lyrically Lifted (working with individuals impacted by drug and alcohol use).
Flight is the first in a series of publications funded by Plumb Lines, a legacy gift made to Lapidus International in memory of poet and disability rights advocate Katrina Plumb.
The project supports writing for wellbeing initiatives that give voice to those who are often unheard in mainstream literature and publishing.
Its aim is to showcase what is possible when creativity and inclusivity come together, and signals the start of a wider effort by Lapidus Publishing to provide platforms for poetry, essays, and hybrid works that reflect the full range of human experience.
The anthology will be launched at Creative Bridges 2025, Lapidus International’s biennial online conference, taking place on 13–14 September 2025. The conference gathers writers, researchers, and practitioners to explore the therapeutic and transformational power of words. To mark the occasion and honour the voices within the book, free digital copies will be made available to festival attendees.
“We’re thrilled to share this powerful collection with the world,” Regina Beach, Editor of the Plumb Lines Project told us at That's Books and Entertainment.
“The writers in Flight have created deeply moving work that reflects resilience, identity, and hope. Our goal is to elevate stories that deserve to be heard, and this is only the beginning.”
FACTFILE:-
Lapidus International is a UK-based organisation that champions writing for wellbeing across therapeutic, educational, and creative settings.
Plumb Lines is a legacy-funded project managed by Lapidus, designed to support writing initiatives that engage underrepresented or marginalised groups in creative expression and healing through words.
Cambridge Literary Festival’s Winter Festival returns Sat 22- Sun 23 November
Highlights include outstanding novelists Zadie Smith and Ian McEwan, Mick Herron of Slow Horses fame, Katie Piper, John Cleese marking 50 years since Fawlty Towers was on our TV screens and Larry Lamb of Gavin & Stacey fame. Join them this November for their twice-yearly celebration of the written word.
Zadie Smith makes a welcome return to discuss her thrilling collection of essays Dead and Alive; Former First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon joins us in a sure to be riveting conversation with fellow Scot and Festival Honorary Patron Ali Smith; Mick Herron makes his much awaited debut at the festival with the next instalment in his Slough House series.
An unmissable and continent-spanning conversation will take place between international barrister Philippe Sands and Colombian writer Juan Gabriel Vásquez; veteran news presenter and broadcaster John Suchet, shares his passion for the music of Beethoven in his deeply personal book In Search of Beethoven.
Emerging from the Cambridge Footlights, John Cleese makes his first appearance at the festival to celebrate 50 years of Fawlty Towers; their always enlightening Cambridge Series welcomes two eminent academics.
Fellow and Associate Professor of Downing College Bonnie Lander Johnson discusses how we became so disconnected from nature and offers some hope in her book Vanishing Landscapes; and, with too many accolades to mention, Partha Dasgupta is the Frank Ramsey Professor of Economics and a Fellow of St. John’s College and will share his latest book On Natural Capital in which he makes the case for bringing economics and ecology together to save the natural world and thereby save ourselves.
Natalie Haynes continues to stand up for the Classics with her latest show, No Friend to this House, which gloriously reimagines the myth of Medea.
Other confirmed writers include beloved poet Wendy Cope with her Collected Works; BBC's Chief International Correspondent Lyse Doucet discussing The Finest Hotel in Kabul: A people’s history of Afghanistan.
Scientist Tim Gregory on Going Nuclear, which makes the case for nuclear power to tackle our climate and energy crisis.
Inspirational Katie Piper empowers us to reimagine aging; former President of the Supreme Court, Lady Hale joins once more to give an entertaining top-to-bottom tour of the legal system; Cambridge cook, writer and journalist Bee Wilson shares her latest, The Heart Shaped Tin, which will resonate with all of us; Ukrainian food writer and chef Olia Hercules shares her latest book Strong Roots: A Ukrainian Family Story of War, Exile and Hope; and local writer Megan Hunter has done it again with another exceptional novel, Days of Light.
Friday, 5 September 2025
10 Perfect Christmas Gifts for Book Lovers
Whether they love curling up with a novel, collecting beautiful editions, or adding to their bookish accessories, these Christmas gift ideas are sure to delight any reader.
1. Special Edition Classics
From clothbound editions of Dickens to illustrated versions of Tolkien, a beautifully bound book makes a timeless and thoughtful present.
2. Book Subscription Boxes
Give the gift that keeps on giving with a monthly delivery of surprise books, often paired with treats like chocolate, tea, or themed gifts.
3. Audiobook Memberships
Perfect for commuters or multi-taskers, an Audible or similar subscription means they can enjoy stories on the go.
4. Personalised Bookmarks
A handmade or leather bookmark engraved with their name or favourite quote adds a special touch to their daily reading.
5. Cosy Reading Lights
Clip-on lights, stylish lamps, or even rechargeable book lights make reading in bed or on dark evenings easier.
6. Tote Bags with Literary Quotes
Book lovers always need something sturdy to carry their next haul from the bookshop—bonus points if it’s decorated with a witty or classic line.
7. Literary-Themed Candles
Scents inspired by libraries, favourite characters, or classic novels create the perfect cosy atmosphere for reading.
8. Hampers for Reading Nights
Put together a hamper with a great novel, a soft blanket, festive hot chocolate, and maybe a few biscuits. It’s the perfect night in.
9. Gift Cards to Independent Bookshops
If you’re not sure what’s on their “to be read” pile, a gift card lets them choose while supporting a local shop.
10. Book Stands and Holders
Ideal for hands-free reading, whether for a cookery book in the kitchen or a novel on the sofa.
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Wednesday, 3 September 2025
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Monday, 9 June 2025
New Baby Names for Progressive, Liberal or "Woke" Parents
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Each name includes a brief explanation of its origin and symbolic meaning:
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Paxley
Ecoa
Origin: A blend of "eco" (ecology) and a melodic vowel ending
Meaning: Symbolises harmony with nature and commitment to sustainability.
Equell
Origin: From "equal" + a soft suffix to evoke elegance
Meaning: Stands for justice, fairness, and the hope of a balanced world.
Novara
Origin: Neo-Latin inspired; from "nova" (new) and "era"
Meaning: Represents a new age of thinking and breaking with old limitations.
Veridee
Origin: Inspired by “verity” (truth) and “idee” (idea in French)
Meaning: Embodies honesty, intellectual freedom, and speaking truth to power.
Lumix
Origin: Fusion of "lumen" (light) and a techy-sounding suffix
Meaning: Light-bringer; symbolises clarity, transparency, and futuristic vision.
Gaian
Origin: From "Gaia", the Earth Mother in Greek mythology
Meaning: Celebrates the interconnectedness of life and ecological awareness.
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Origin: Derived from “pax” (peace) and the -ley suffix found in English place names
Meaning: Signifies peacefulness, sanctuary, and community spirit.
Thinka
Origin: A whimsical name based on “thinker” with a softer, more lyrical tone
Meaning: Encourages curiosity, reflection, and mindfulness.
Zenithra
Origin: From "zenith" (the highest point) and an invented feminine suffix
Meaning: Suggests aspirations, reaching for the best, and inner strength.
Juston
Origin: Derived from “justice” and fashioned like a classic name
Meaning: Speaks to fairness, equity, and standing up for what’s right.
Cloude
Origin: A poetic spelling of "cloud", evoking nature and digital age blending
Meaning: Symbolises both freedom of thought and environmental awareness.
Ashwyn
Origin: From "ash" (renewal through fire) and “wyn” (joy in Old English)
Meaning: Represents rebirth, hope, and optimism after difficult times.
Trueva
Origin: A fusion of “truth” and “eva” (life)
Meaning: Living authentically and truthfully in a complex world.
Wednesday, 22 January 2025
How to Set Up and Run a Book Reading Club
Whether you're starting a club with friends, colleagues, or strangers, this guide will help you establish and manage a successful reading group.
Step 1: Define Your Club’s Purpose
Start by deciding on the focus of your book club. Will it be a general reading group, or will it have a specific theme, such as:
Genre-based: Focusing on mysteries, science fiction, or romance.
Author-focused: Exploring the works of a particular writer.
Topical: Reading books about history, social issues, or self-improvement.
Community-oriented: Highlighting local authors or culturally significant works.
Defining a clear purpose will help attract like-minded members and ensure everyone’s expectations align.
Step 2: Recruit Members
Consider who you’d like to join your club. Start by inviting friends, family, or colleagues. You can also:
Post on social media or local community boards.
Use platforms like Meetup or Facebook groups.
Advertise in local libraries, coffee shops, or bookshops.
Aim for a group size of 6 to 12 people. This ensures a diverse range of perspectives while keeping discussions manageable.
Step 3: Choose a Meeting Format
Decide how and where your club will meet. Options include:
In-person meetings: At someone’s home, a library, or a local café.
Virtual meetings: Using platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams.
Hybrid meetings: Combining in-person and virtual participation.
Set a regular schedule, such as monthly or bi-monthly, and agree on a convenient day and time for members.
Step 4: Select Books
Choosing the right books is crucial for keeping members engaged. Here are some tips:
Rotate book selection among members to ensure variety.
Create a voting system to decide as a group.
Consider the length and complexity of books to accommodate different reading paces.
Mix classics, contemporary works, and lesser-known titles.
Plan the reading list a few months in advance to give everyone time to obtain and read the books.
Step 5: Prepare for Meetings
To keep discussions lively and meaningful, prepare in advance:
Discussion questions: Create or find questions that explore themes, characters, and the author’s intent.
Background research: Share information about the author or historical context of the book.
Activities: Consider themed snacks, creative projects, or guest speakers to enhance the experience.
Encourage members to jot down notes or favourite quotes while reading to share during the meeting.
Step 6: Facilitate Discussions
As the organiser, your role is to ensure everyone feels heard and included. Here are some tips:
Start with a brief summary of the book.
Use open-ended questions to spark discussion.
Encourage quieter members to share their thoughts.
Respect differing opinions and keep the conversation on track.
Step 7: Evaluate and Adjust
Periodically review how the club is functioning. Ask members for feedback on:
Book selections
Meeting frequency and format
Discussion quality
Use this feedback to make adjustments and ensure the club remains enjoyable and fulfilling for all members.
Final Thoughts
Starting and running a book reading club requires some effort, but the rewards are well worth it. By fostering a welcoming environment and engaging discussions, you’ll create a space where members can connect, learn, and grow together.
So, gather your books, rally your members, and let the literary adventures begin!
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