Collins Gem

A completely new full-colour edition of the popular guide to science First published in 1989, this is the third edition of the popular Gem Basic Facts Science. The Basic Facts series is a series of illustrated gem dictionaries in important school subjects. • The perfect mini-dictionary of science • Includes key concepts, clearly defined, with the aid of many helpful diagrams • Ideal for school work, exam revision and quick reference • Designed for ease of use and comprehension • Now in full colour

A refreshed and redesigned edition of this popular handy-sized guide to dreams and their meanings. Throughout history and across many different cultures, dreams and dreaming have had much importance attached to them. From the Ancient Greeks to Sigmund Freud and today's mind/body/spirit gurus, people have sought to use the interpretation of dreams as a means of unlocking the mysteries of the subconscious. This updated edition of Collins Gem Understanding Dreams allows you to unlock the secrets of dreams and dreaming. The easy-to-use A-Z listing of over 1000 of the most common dream symbols enables you to discover their meanings within seconds of waking up. You will also be able to discover whether your dream foretells good or bad news, is a warning or a manifestation of a particular longing or a desire. Collins Gem Understanding Dreams is ideal for keeping in your bedside cabinet or under your pillow. So, if you've been dreaming of flirting or flogging, dolls or doors, stars or starvation, this is the only guide to interpreting dream symbols you will need. • Features interpretations of over 1000 dream symbols.

What are the best television series ever made and what do you know about them? Gem Classic TV Series introduces you to a selection of around 80 series, providing key facts, critics' comments, quotations and trivia questions. This Collins Gem is published in flexi binding, providing the durability of a hardback with the flexibility of a paperback. In a stylish new cover design, Gem Classic TV Series introduces an ever-popular subject. No one is going to agree over such a selection - here is a choice for you to argue about but also for you to enjoy and discover new information. Each series receives at least two pages and is illustrated. In addition, lists of award winners and viewing figures are given. Over 80 programs covered, with factual and trivia information provided Illustrated throughout with photographs A selection to enjoy and to agree (or disagree) with.

There are few spirits that command such dedication, interest and affection as whisky. The purpose of this book is to provide a pathway through the whisky maze, to demystify it and to provide a platform from which a lifetime's hobby can be launched. Whisky expert Dominic Roskrow explores all aspects of this popular drink, delving into its history, dispelling the myths surrounding it and highlighting individualities of the many varieties that exist. Includes: • Origins and history of whisky. • How whiskies are made today. • Guide to Scottish distilleries. • Single malt whiskies. • How to drink and appreciate whisky. • Sections on whiskies of the world, including Irish whiskey and bourbon. • Debunking myths. • Types of whisky. • Buying whisky. • Whisky is big business.

Fast, practical fixes to help you relax, unwind and bring you instant calm. Modern life is full of stresses and strains and makes ever-greater demands on our physical and mental well-being. So more than ever, we need quick and effective solutions to make us feel instantly calmer. These 5-minute tips will help you to relax, calm down and put your problems into perspective: • Helps you to assess your basic level of stress • Learning to relax and positive visualization. • How to address the underlying problems head on. • Breathing techniques. • Releasing postural tension. • Massage and stretches. • Better nutrition. • Sleeping better. Helpful quizzes, tests and questionnaires are combined with more than 50 essential tips to help turn your busy, stressful life around in 5 minutes flat. • Offers stressed office workers and commuters instant results. • Stress affects one in five of the working population and is now the single biggest cause of sickness absence in the UK. It costs UK industry £3.7 billion each year. • The British Heart Foundation (BHF) says half a million people in the UK believe work-related stress is making them ill, and that having risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes and not doing any exercise, combined with high stress levels can lead to coronary heart disease.

Mental_floss is proud to present a full-bodied jolt of inspiration for thirsty minds on the go. Blended with titillating facts, startling revelations, and head-scratching theories collected from around the world, Instant Knowledge will jumpstart riveting exchanges at cocktail parties, the watercooler, or any powwow. To experience the clean, rich flavor at home, just tear into a topic of your choice, and add conversation. It's that simple!

From the Colosseum to Hadrian's Wall, Gem Ancient Rome shows us how Rome's vast empire laid the foundations of today's civilisation. From aqueducts to baths, from gladiators to emperors, the fascinating history of and mythology of ancient Rome are brought to life in this entertaining and highly-readable guide. With their sophisticated army, monuments and roads, the Romans literally paved the way to modern Europe. Learn about the hand-to-hand combat at gladiatorial shows, rediscover the myths and legends of the Roman gods and find out how and why Rome became the conquering superpower that it did. History will come to life in this engaging and comprehensive introduction to one of the most fascinating and influential places the world has ever known. Includes: • Geography - map of the Roman Empire • History - a timeline with the accomplishments of the emperors • Culture - what the Romans did for us • Religion - Gods and Festivals • Mythology - Virgil's Aeneid, Romulus and Remus • Daily life in Ancient Greece - different levels in society, the jobs, family life, leisure activities • Politics - transition from Republic to Dictatorship • Learning and knowledge - Law, Science, Architecture, Literature, Art • War - important wars, the Empire, the army and navy • Rome Today - temples, archaeology, and modern tourist sites.

This fully updated special edition of the classic complete guide to the edible species that grow around us includes a new foreword from the author and a plate section with identification guides for all major species. Originally published in 1972, Richard Mabey's classic foraging guide has never been out of print since. “Food for Free” is a complete guide to help you safely identify edible species that grow around us, together with detailed field identification notes and recipes. In this stunning 50th anniversary edition, Richard Mabey's updated text is accompanied by a wealth of practical information on identifying, collecting, cooking and preparing, as well as history and folklore. Informative illustrations of key species by expert botanical artists are included in a colour plate section. Beautifully written and produced in a new, readable format, “Food for Free” will inspire us to be more self-sufficient and make use of the natural resources around us to enhance our lives.

Bite-sized yoga that fits in with your everyday life and gives instant results. Get all the benefits from yoga by practicing for just 15-minutes during your normal working day. Whether at home, in the office, at classes - all you need is 15 minutes to make a difference to your life. • Brief introduction to hatha yoga, and its benefits • When and where to practice yoga • Breathing and relaxation • 15-minute morning yoga exercises (to wake you up and focus your mind and body) • 15-minute evening/after work yoga exercises (to help you wind down) • 15-minute bedtime yoga exercises (to help you relax, overcome insomnia and put the events of a busy day into perspective) The 15-minute sessions within each section can be practiced by all levels from beginner to advanced, and you can choose the time of day, which best fits your lifestyle to practice. Just decide which session suits you or vary them. • This is yoga for everyone: beginners to advanced • Anyone can fit this into their everyday lives: you only need 15 minutes • Strong sales of previous yoga titles: Gem Yoga has sold 75,150 copies in the UK alone • August a great time for people considering starting an evening class in September

With stunning new design and layout and the most up-to-date travel information, the market's most indispensable phrasebook and dictionary has been reinvented for e-readers and is better than ever. Gem Afrikaans will give you the right word at the right time - every time. In all of the most common travel situations, you need the reassurance that you can communicate with ease. A reliable, portable and easy-to-use phrasebook is a travel essential, and now with the completely re-designed Collins Gem Afrikaans, the right word will always be at your fingertips. With a whole new look inside and out that includes a new cover and easy-to-navigate layout, it is now simpler than ever to use Afrikaans effectively and with confidence. This indispensable language guide covers the topics and phrases that crop up in most common situations. Includes: • Fully updated travel information • Travel tips • 3000 word dictionary • Comprehensive menu decoder • Grammar and pronunciation sections • "Face to face" sections With the help of Gem Afrikaans you will never be lost for words. • Different from anything else on the market, this brand new edition of the most indispensable language guide comes complete with revised cover, content and page layout to offer a whole new product that will grab buyers' and customers' attention • Maximizes the Collins brand which most people already associate with dictionaries • Relaunching the phrasebooks in such a way creates a buzz and will generate interest in the way they look and their content

How should you prepare for floods? What's the best way to react during an earthquake? How should you signal for help, and what do you need in your supplies? This book gives you practical tips and advice to keep you prepared as far as possible to help protect yourself and your loved ones in the face of any eventuality. The Collins Gem Disaster Survival Guide provides advice on what to do in the event of a range of natural, civil and terrorist disasters. This book not only covers personal safety, but also explores how the safety of children, seniors and the disabled can best be achieved in differing, and difficult circumstances. As well as exploring physical problems, the book also discusses the emotional reactions to a disaster, and how best to cope - including fear management techniques, and how to treat someone suffering from shock. Natural disasters such as hurricanes, volcanoes, avalanches and epidemics are featured, as well as civil and terrorist disasters including fire, chemical incidents and water shortage. • Includes basic first aid tips • Essential supplies checklist • Resource directory with links/contact information for government departments tasked with dealing with disasters, and other useful contact information and websites

A handy and affordable Welsh dictionary ebook. Its clear layout and navigation allow for fast and easy access when you most need it. Ideal for use on the go, at home, in the office, classroom or on holiday. Suitable for use in schools. Designed for all those studying Welsh who need maximum information in an accessible format. • Over 28,000 headwords and 44,000 translations • Offers up-to-date coverage. • Delivers the accuracy and reliability you expect from the Collins name. With natural, idiomatic example phrases, treatment of the most important core vocabulary and help to find the exact translation you want. • clear colour layout for maximum accessibility • fully updated with current vocabulary and usage Competition: Modern Welsh Dictionary. Welsh English English Welsh Dictionary. Geiriadur Mawr, Y. Oxford. Waverley Books

All the essential facts on ancient Egypt covering mummification, the pharaohs, the pyramids and the mysterious rituals. The ancient Egyptians have fascinated and enthralled the minds of millions down the centuries. With extensive scientific knowledge, splendid architecture and many artistic and cultural achievements, their civilization stood apart as being ahead of its time. This compact and informative guide is perfect for all those studying ancient Egypt, visiting the sights, or curious to find out more about this fascinating period. Includes a wide range of topics such as: • Geography - how the Nile added to the success of their civilization. • History - a timeline spanning 3,000 years from 3100BC to 395AD and covering each dynastic period • Religion - the role of the gods and goddesses • Pharaohs - Cheops, Nefertiti and Tutankhamun • Life in Ancient Egypt - different levels in society, the jobs, family life, leisure activities • Learning and knowledge - the hieroglyphs, the scribes • War - the armies, weapons and armor • Death, funeral rites and mummification • Tombs and pyramids • Egypt today - archaeology, discoveries and what one can see today.

Are you a Bosom Caresser or a Harvey Wallbanger? Can you tell a Moscow Mule from a Brass Monkey? Can you name Ernest Hemingway's favourite tipple? All the kit, spirits, mixers, famous drinkers - and over 80 classic and contemporary cocktail recipes, plus tried and tested hangover cures for the morning after. If you have friends coming round for drinks, or you're looking for the perfect accessory to take to a party, Gem Cocktails is the ideal quick-reference, bursting with information on everything you need to know to mix the perfect cocktail. The fact-packed introduction examines the legends of how the cocktail was invented and tells the story of its climb to fame in Jazz Age America. It then looks at the secrets of mixing a great cocktail and what you'll need to set up your own cocktail bar - what spirits, liqueurs and mixers to keep stocked up on, what equipment you'll need and which glasses to serve each cocktail in and how to garnish. Nine drinks-based chapters then detail ingredients, assembly instructions and presentation for each cocktail and you'll even learn a little about the background to their creation. Contents include: • Introduction • Rum-based cocktails • Brandy-based cocktails • Vodka-based cocktails • The Classic Martini • Whisky-based cocktails • Champagne-based cocktails • Shooters, slammers and tequila • Non-alcoholic cocktails • Hangover cures.

An introductory guide to 167 of the most frequently occurring birds in Ireland. Gem Irish Birds describes and illustrates 160 of the most frequently occurring birds in Ireland. Specially designed for people with a general interest in birds, the species have been carefully selected to include those that the non-specialist birdwatcher is most likely to see. The entries are organized taxonomically, with a detailed introduction to all the different habitats. There are also details on key identification features and behavioral characteristics to help you identify each bird with accuracy and ease.

This pocket-sized guide to identifying and interpreting metal and ceramic marks has been improved with the addition of the most recent hallmarks, along with details of the new hallmarking system. Do you attend car boot sales or browse in antique shops in search of bargains? Have you ever wished you knew more about grandma's silver spoon? Do you envy the experts' ability to identify and date old hand-me-downs? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, Collins Gem Antique Marks is for you. Packed with thousands of clear illustrations, the book shows hallmarks on silver, gold and platinum, as well as those on Old Sheffield Plate, pewter, pottery and porcelain. Complete with a history of hallmarks and how to read them, Collins Gem Antique Marks is absolutely indispensable.

An easy-to-use and authoritative guide to over 220 species of snake from around the world, each entry specially selected to show the diversity of size, shape and color of these respected creatures. There are about 2,500 species of snakes in the world, and the majority of these can be found in warmer parts of Europe, North America, southern Africa, Southeast Asia and Australia. Of these often-beautiful creatures, about 400 are some of the most venomous creatures in the world, and over 100 of them are deadly to humans. Arranged into 15 families of most closely related species, this book will guide you through each one.

What effect are you having on the environment? If you buy Kenyan green beans what is the CO2 cost? What about your journey to work, your fridge or your clothes? The Gem Carbon Counter is your portable instant green reckoner. This handy little book includes: • Introduction by Mark Lynas author of Hide Tide: News from a Warming World. • Welcome to the Greenhouse: Explains what the Greenhouse effect actually is, all the issues surrounding global warming and your carbon footprint? • Your Carbon Footprint: Measure your own carbon footprint covering all aspects of your life from your food shopping to your work, holidays and clothes. Starting with your home gas and electricity supplies and usage, the handy green reckoner takes you through each part of your life and helps you add up the impact you are making on the environment. So, in turn, it allows you to identify the key parts of your life which you'll need to adapt to reduce your carbon footprint: from which coffee you drink to how often you go on holiday. • Sustainability: How do you measure up in comparison to the average person's carbon footprint? What can you do to generate your own energy and therefore reduce your footprint and what sort of targets can you set yourself? • Helpful Appendices: Includes information on carbon emissions for journeys by car, train and plane. A list of corporate companies, their emissions and what they are doing to reduce their carbon footprint so that as a consumer, you can make decisions on who you support. A helpful carbon diary where you can record your carbon footprint for the year. Useful websites where you can read more about green issues.

A handy Polish phrasebook and dictionary, easy-to-read design and simple navigation, Gem Polish will give you the right word at the right time - every time for your travels in Poland. Communicate with ease in all of the most common travel situations. A reliable and easy-to-use phrasebook is a travel essential, and with Collins Gem Polish Phrasebook and Dictionary, the right word will always be at your fingertips. This indispensable language guide covers the topics and phrases that crop up every day on holiday, from finding a hotel to choosing wine.

A highly entertaining, illustrated guide to a whole range of firsts, from the worlds of history, science, transport, society, the arts and sport. Over 300 fascinating firsts from the worlds of science, transport, the arts, society and many others are included in this handy-sized illustrated guide. Do you know when the first fire brigade was established? Or which were the first countries to join NATO? Or when were the first car number plates introduced? Or who was the first travel agent? Or when was the first national daily newspaper published? Or who was the first billionaire? All these questions and hundreds more are answered in this Gem reference book.

This handy guide covers everything you need to know when looking for fossils in any part of Britain and Europe. Many different types of fossilized objects are included, from plants and coral, to insects, birds and dinosaurs. Collecting fossils is a popular pastime that offers an exciting glimpse of life before man while at the same time takes you to some of the most beautiful landscapes and coastlines. This practical introductory guide provides general fossil identifications with information on their geological age and distribution. Additionally, it also covers some of the aspects involved in the process of fossilization and how to collect fossils. Major groups of fossils are illustrated and some of the important anatomical features to keep in mind when identifying them are shown and explained. The book includes advice and safety tips for fossil hunters and all those eager to make exciting discoveries about the ancient past.

A practical introduction to the therapeutic effects of essential oils and their use in skin and body care. This Gem, with a range of practical instructions and clear description of the range of therapeutic effects of essential oils, provides an introduction of aromatherapy for all those who wish to become more informed. With a large number of illustrations, this guide provides a practical, approachable introduction to Aromatherapy.

You will never be lost for words in your travels around Portugal and the Portuguese islands again! Your ideal travel companion will ensure that you can say what you need in Portuguese with ease and confidence. Reliable and easy-to-use, this phrasebook is an indispensable travel companion as you deal with the situations that crop up every day on holiday; from finding a chic hotel, or hiring a car to explore the countryside, to choosing a local delicacy from the menu, and, of course, setting up your wifi. With helpful travel information and cultural tips, plus a 3000-word dictionary, make sure you don't go anywhere without this little ebook — an essential guide to speaking and understanding Portuguese when travelling in Portugal and the Portuguese islands. • Updated with new words and phrases. • More meaningful section headings.

Sound and speak like a native. Your ideal companion for practicing pronunciation, listening and becoming more confident, not just in speaking but in understanding others when in Arabic-speaking countries. In all of the most common travel situations, you need the reassurance that you can communicate with ease. A reliable, portable and easy-to-use phrasebook is a travel essential, and with Collins Gem Arabic phrasebook, the right word will always be at your fingertips. This indispensable language guide covers the topics and phrases that crop up every day on holiday, from finding a hotel to going shopping.

Can the study of numbers - such as the figures in a birth date - influence events and give an idea of the character of friend and foe alike? This brand-new illustrated Collins Gem explores the world of numerology and its possible effects. Numerology is believed to be one of the oldest forms of occult law - with origins being traced back to Babylonia. Many people have held theories about the occult significance of numbers. Numerology used to be practised as a form of general divination and today is mainly concerned with character analysis and potential. This Collins Gem will help you: Understand the concept of primary and secondary numbers. Using numbers to help assess the personality of individuals. Create birth and name numbers. Analyse and interpret the significance of numbers.

A handy, quick-reference guide to thousands of difficult-to-remember or difficult-to-find facts. Do you know who won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1965? What is the capital of the Netherlands Antilles? When was the telescope invented? What is ablutophobia? Which countries are members of OPEC? Whose saint's day is 11 February? The answers to these and many thousands of other questions, whether they be from the worlds of politics, history, geography, religion, science, the arts, language or sport, can be found in this edition of this bestselling Gem. Now with full-colour coverage and tables, this is the only quick-reference general knowledge guide you will need.

An entertaining and authoritative introduction to the world of piracy - history comes to life through a compelling factual narrative and enlightening illustrations. Why did seamen become pirates? What was life like on board a pirate ship? How did they go about plundering the enemy's ship? What sort of treasure did they capture? 'Collins Gem Pirates' vividly explains and illustrates the development of piracy from ancient times to the modern day. It addresses why piracy started and disappeared, but focuses on the so-called 'Golden Age' of piracy in the seventeenth century, debunking the myths that surround this period, and bringing it to life through an exploration of the personalities, vessels and places involved. They were a disciplined bunch, on the whole, with strict codes of conduct to adhere to and severe punishments for those who broke the rules. There is no evidence to suggest that pirates ever made their victims walk the plank; instead, they were more likely to be marooned on an island. Did you know that following his execution, Captain Kidd's body was dipped in tar and hung by chains along the River Thames, as a warning for would-be pirates? Or that the fearsome Edward Teach (a.k.a. Blackbeard) plundered over 40 ships, but probably never killed a man until his final battle? Or that captains Anne Bonny and Mary Read spent most of their careers disguised as men, because women on ship were thought to bring bad luck? The mysteries and myths surrounding piracy continue to fascinate children and adults alike. This gripping book provides a real and lively insight into this stimulating bygone era.

Full of helpful expert advice and numerous practical projects, this is a fascinating mini guide to identifying and encouraging wildlife into your garden, whether you live in the town or the country. Our gardens have become an important nature conservation area for animals, insects and plants, especially as many natural habitats are being destroyed. With the help of this practical, pocket-sized book, you can create not only a fascinating miniature nature reserve but also an attractive garden.

This Collins Gem provides a practical introduction to homeopathy and what to expect when seeking advice from a homeopath. It includes A-Z listings of the most popular remedies and treatments. Homeopathy is now recognized as the central pillar to the holistic approach to health. It has a long history, having been systematically developed in the 18th century and now enjoying a huge surge in interest. This Gem explains the theory and practice of homeopathy and highlights its uses and benefits and the importance of taking advice from homeopaths. A-Z listing of the most popular and readily available remedies (including their properties, benefits, application and main use) A-Z listing of minor complaints and possible homeopathic treatments. Over 150 photographs to illustrate homeopathic practice, sources of treatments and applications.

This Gem guides you through the range of spirits and the most popular liqueurs and fortified wines. Discover how the drink is made, where it came from, how to drink it and what to mix with it, along with recommendations on what to buy. For each drink included, information is given on its history, how it is made (and from what), along with explanation of the different styles of the drink - London Gin, Sapphire Gin, etc. and recommendations.

The market's most indispensable phrasebook and dictionary has been reinvented for ereaders, and is better than ever. With the most up-to-date travel information, easy-to-read page design and simple navigation, Gem Czech will give you the right word at the right time - every time. Suitable for tablets and eink readers. Communicate with ease in all of the most common travel situations. A reliable and easy-to-use phrasebook is a travel essential, and with Collins Gem Czech Phrasebook, the right word will always be at your fingertips. This indispensable language guide covers the topics and phrases that crop up every day on holiday, from finding a hotel to choosing wine. Includes: • Fully updated travel information • Travel tips • 3000-word dictionary • Comprehensive menu decoder • Grammar and pronunciation sections • "Face to face" conversations With the help of the Gem Czech Phrasebook you will never be lost for words in the Czech Republic again. • Designed specifically with the eBook user in mind, the Gem Phrasebook is different from anything else on the market. • This newest edition comes complete with easy navigation and page layout, and a dictionary for quick reference. • Maximizes the Collins brand which most people already associate with dictionaries.

Who are the world's best soldiers? Since the Iranian Embassy siege in 1980, the Falklands and the 1991 Gulf War, the British SAS have often been described as the greatest experts in Special Operations. What are the secrets of their success, and how does anyone pass their arduous training programme? This reference book investigates the skills, weapons and tactics of the world's elite military units. From the SAS - Australian and New Zealand as well as British - to the special Boat Squadron, the US Special Forces, US navy SEALs, Delta Force, Germany's GSG9 and the new commando forces created from the Spetnaz units of the former Soviet army. The book includes information on the latest equipment to enter the service - from sniper rifles and silenced pistols to burst-transmission radios, satellite navigation aids, low opening parachutes and mini-submarines.

An introduction to complementary therapies, from aromatherapy to shiatsu. An illustrated guide to what the therapies do, how and where they are performed, and their benefits. Also includes information on how to find out more about each therapy. An A-Z guide to the different alternative therapies on offer. A clear introduction to each therapy, their benefits, how they are performed, how long each session is and how many might be required. Information which will help the reader decide if it is the kind of therapy they would like to try. Details of professional bodies associated with the therapies and interesting websites which will provide further information.

Packed full of tips for the aspiring watercolourist, its handy format makes it ideal for quick reference either in the studio or out in the field. Contents include: • Essential tips on all the basic watercolour techniques, plus helpful advice on sketching and drawing. • Guidelines on painting skies, backgrounds, foregrounds, the main subject, trees, details and shadows. • Clear and straightforward step-by-step instructions for painting a complete landscape in 7 easy stages. • Tips on painting water in various forms and adding people to a painting. • New subject area, new internal design and strong new cover design. • Handy format for quick reference when working in the studio or out in the field. • Simple, straightforward approach to landscape painting, ideal for beginners. • Packed with useful tips and step-by-step demonstrations.

If your life is hectic but you still want to organise a party that will make your child's day, then Gem Children's Parties is the small but indispensable book that will come to your rescue. Planning a children's party can be stressful, expensive and a feat of organisation. Gem Children's Parties provides struggling parents with reliable, imaginative advice and ideas that will guarantee a hit party without the fuss. Covering everything from food to entertainment, this is a one-stop resource for every budget and every parent who happens not to be superhuman. Topics include: • Venues. • Themes. • Decoration. • Games. • Food. • Goody bags.

Revolutionaries, despots and tyrants - over 40 of the most totalitarian leaders in the world. This ebook has been made from the 2007 edition. Want to know which dictator ruled the longest, who added his own name to his country's national anthem, who killed his own mother, who, it is estimated, was responsible for killing about a tenth of the global population? Read about revolutions and wars; family politics and betrayals. This book covers 40 dictators throughout history, including a brief outline of how they came to and left power, their personality, abilities and achievements, and a historical perspective on how their rule affected their country and people. Dictators included are, amongst others: Peter I of Russia, Lenin, Mussolini, Stalin, Franco, Pol Pot, Castro, and Juan Peron. This book aims to answer questions such as: How do you become a dictator? Why does it happen? What sort of person becomes a dictator? It also explains the legacy of each dictator.

A clear practical guide to diets that do work and why they work. From food combining to detoxing to an ayurvedic approach, you can work out which healthy eating plan is the best for your body type. Dieting has become a way of life for many people, but often with negative results. Instead of losing weight, their weight yo-yos and as they get older, it becomes harder to lose weight. With obesity on the increase, even amongst children, it is vital we choose eating plans that are sensible, healthy and long term. Everybody is different, some people have fast metabolisms, some have slow metabolisms. This book will help you identify your body type and help you choose an eating plan that is right for you. Gem Diets gives a clear outline of various healthy eating plans, explains why they help you to lose weight, and provides sample menus and meals.

A compact introduction to observing, predicting, and understanding the weather. This handy little guide provides the perfect introduction to what is happening in the sky, come rain or shine. Different weather conditions are all illustrated, so you can look through the pictures to identify what you have seen, or if you know the type of cloud or phenomenon that interests you, Gem Weather will tell you much more about it. A helpful glossary explains any technical or scientific terms you may not be familiar with. The book starts by teaching you how to recognise basic cloud types, and from there some of the variations you may encounter. Becoming familiar with these and understanding why they occur is a practical way to begin making your own weather predictions. Then winds, precipitation, other optical phenomena and weather fronts are all explained, providing all you need to know to understand satellite images and how the weather is forecast. Extreme and severe weather conditions, such as tornadoes and hurricanes, are finally included because they help to illustrate the range of weather events and explain some of the processes that occur in the atmosphere. All weather conditions, clouds and optical phenomena are fully illustrated with colour photographs, and there are practical explanations of how the weather is forecast and how to read weather maps. This bestselling natural history gem is an ideal pocket reference for budding meteorologists, and an accessible introduction to the subject for beginners of all ages.

A practical, easy-to-use, pocketable guide covering all the basics of choosing and caring for plants in your home. Indoor plants can decorate any room - transforming the space with color and scent all year round. But few people are aware of the incredible range of weird and wonderful species it is possible to grow indoors - and it seems even fewer people know how to keep them alive! This title in the highly successful Collins Gem series will show you how. There are plants to suit every taste - and every level of commitment - which means that the absolute beginner to the green-fingered gardener can enjoy beautiful plants indoors.

Ever faced a crowd of fifteen 5-year olds and quaked? Well, here is your chance to bring order and calm to the party proceedings. Just consult your Gem and you can prepare for those half-forgotten games such as Musical Bumps, Simon Says and Blind Man's Buff. Collins Gem Children's Party Games provides clear advice and instructions on the most popular family and party games. It is an invaluable guide for organizing children's and family parties, for wet weekends, Christmas family holidays as well as train or car journeys. The clear instructions also include: Number and age of participants How long the game lasts What equipment is required How to prepare for the game For hours of family games and entertainment look no further than this Gem.

Reflexology is increasing in popularity as more people turn towards natural forms of medicine. This is a practical introduction, full of diagrams, photographs and clear advice on using reflexology to treat medical problems. The basis of reflexology is that areas in the foot correspond to different parts of the body. The art of reflexology is to recognise any imbalances and correct them through manipulation. The book starts with an introduction to the origin of reflexology and then covers • How reflexology works • The reflex areas of the feet • The position of the reflex areas • How to give treatment • General advice on treatment • The complete treatment to cover the whole body from the brain to the lymphatic system • Specific treatments for particular ailments • Possible reactions to treatment. Let this Collins Gem introduce you to the theory and practice of reflexology. It gives you a clear, step-by-step guidance to help you understand and practice the benefits of reflexology.

The perfect pocket guide to boosting your immune system for better physical and mental health all year round. Tiredness, frequent colds, infections, allergies, mood swings and premature aging are all common manifestations of a weakened immunity. Your immune system is your invisible bodyguard, fighting off invasion and working tirelessly around the clock to keep you fit and healthy. But how can you support your immune system and give it the strength it needs to keep up the good work? Gem 100 Ways to Boost Your Immune System has all of the tips and advice you'll need for an instant self-defence plan. It's easy to maximise your potential for high-level health, happiness and vitality by following simple steps everyday. Part one of the book includes information on: • How your immune system works • Understanding the germs that cause infection • What your doctor can offer; the pros and cons of antibiotics • Fighting infection naturally • Building a strong immune system • Common immunity myths. The second part of the book is split into helpful sections, including Lifestyle, Diet and Nutrition, Complementary Therapies and Mind and Emotions. One hundred practical immune boosters give instant information on how you can build and strengthen your immune system from day to day. Whether using stress management techniques, or eating super foods for better health, this is the ideal reference for instant results.

A practical introduction to hatha yoga. Clear, illustrated step-by-step instructions to over 40 key postures. Benefits and cautions are highlighted for each posture. This Collins Gem is published in flexi binding, providing the durability of a paperback. In a stylish new cover design, Gem Yoga will strengthen the bestselling Mind, Body & Spirit Gem. Collins Gem Yoga provides a good introduction to yoga, particularly for those thinking of taking up a class. It is also an invaluable reference book for those attending classes and who wish to practice the postures at home. Includes over 40 postures Describes breathing techniques Gives a history of yoga

This Gem provides a guide to the lives of the most popular saints - who they were, how they became saints and for whom they have a particular importance. This guide to saints contains brief biographies, saint's days and lists of patron saints as well as a general introduction to how someone becomes a saint and who were the first saints. This interesting guide shows how saints still play a part in modern life - whether it's having that St Christopher magnet stuck on the dashboard, or praying to St Anthony if you cannot find your car keys.

You will never be lost for words in your travels around Turkey again! Your ideal travel companion will ensure that you can say what you need in Turkish with ease and confidence. Reliable and easy-to-use, this phrasebook is an indispensable travel companion as you deal with the situations that crop up every day on holiday; from finding a chic hotel, or hiring a car to explore the countryside, to choosing a local delicacy from the menu, and, of course, setting up your wifi. With helpful travel information and cultural tips, plus a 3000-word dictionary, make sure you don't go anywhere without this little ebook — an essential guide to speaking and understanding Turkish when travelling in Turkey. • Updated with new words and phrases • More meaningful section headings • New cover look Competition: Lonely Planet Turkish Phrasebook & Dictionary. Lonely Planet, Berlitz, Rough Guides, BBC, DK.

An easy-to-use guide to over 50 fantastic magic tricks. Collins Gem Magic Tricks is a fascinating and easy-to use guide to over sixty tricks, whether they be The Magic Wand (using coins), Blow that knot away (using a handkerchief) or Impossible release (using string). Specially commissioned photographs and explanatory diagrams complement the clear step-by-step instructions for each trick. There is also a short introduction to the history of magic, plus information on preparing your own magic show and what equipment you will need to make it a huge success.

Tai Chi Chuan began as a martial art in China over 1000 years ago and is now widely recognized for its great health benefits. This Collins Gem provides a simple, clear and highly illustrated introduction. This book provides an introduction to the history, philosophy and practice of this fascinating, multi-faceted art. From its early origins in the holy Taoist Mountains of China it has now become a highly practical tool for life in the 21st century. Tai Chi can help to improve posture, increase energy levels and create a calm, clear mind. By learning a few simple postures, and regularly practicing them for a few minutes each day, you can gradually come to integrate this ancient Chinese system into your daily routine and enjoy its benefit in many ways: physically, mentally, emotionally and, ultimately, spiritually. Included are a number of postures from the first section of the Short Yang form that will take only three minutes to complete. They will provide a little taste of what Tai Chi Chuan can offer. Study each posture carefully and the advice given on transitions and purpose. Let yourself gradually become familiar with one or two movements and you can then progress to learning the complete sequence. Once learned, you can practice the routine three or four times a session and gain benefits that are close to those you would achieve through performing an entire form of Tai Chi Chuan. • A new Gem in a very popular subject • Full of illustrated, practical, step-by-step instructions • An ideal introductory book

This Collins Gem is being reissued in flex binding, providing the durability of a hardback with the flexibility of a paperback. The stylish new cover design will enliven this and 70 other bestselling Gems. There's no mention of it in the Book of Genesis, but beer does go back a very, very long way. Collins Gem Beer brings the story very much up to date, with a directory of over 200 lagers, ales, bitters, wheat beers, porters and stouts.