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The people of West Yorkshire have always been fond of a good story. Well-known local historian John Billingsley's latest book includes cautionary tales, amusing anecdotes, age-old legends and fantastical myths. Line drawings by Heptonstall illustrator, Stan McCarthy.
From the well-known Hebden Bridge-based poet, a new version of his popular book of poems for young people. "This book is a celebration of who we are; the good stuff, our amazing senses, language, love, gossip and cheese. John Siddique's poems blast off the page into real life or they can melt as gently as a snowflake on your tongue. Many of the poems in this book were conceived in primary schools, so John has added special bonus material to help you enjoy reading and writing more, and also included is an exclusive interview about what it is to be a poet." Shortlisted for the CLPE Award..
From the locally-based international artist and sculptor, a beautiful big new book illustrating over 30 years of his work. This lavishly produced monograph celebrates over thirty years of the work of Rob Ward, a local artist of international reputation and standing. 'Reflections' is an apt title, offering a retrospective view of Ward's diverse and profuse catalogue. With full colour plates throughout and beautifully written pieces, we are led through the artist's poetic world; a world rooted in not only the visual arts but also in music and literature. Rob Ward is a very literary visual artist. The works of Basho, Marcel Proust, James Joyce and Italo Calvino are a source of inspiration. It is clear to see that the work reproduced in 'Reflections' is, like the words chosen by the authors in their writings, pieced together and considered intellectually but perhaps more importantly they are created with a heartfelt grasp of harmony and the emotion it engenders. They are lyrical and have a musicality that is pure. Indeed it is his love of jazz that plays across the surfaces of his canvases and over the polished planes of his sculptures.
From a well-known folk musician now based in Hebden Bridge - and also a keen archer! - a gripping historical novel set in 1485. While the merchants of Bristol await the outcome of the Battle of Bosworth, the surviving crew of their ship Swallow are force-marched into the hinterland of the New World by native tribes.
Keith Sagar takes discussion of Hughes' relationship with nature onto a deeper level by relating it to paganism and Christianity, myth, Greek tragedy, Shakespeare, and the whole tradition of nature poetry in English. He traces Hughes' painful journey from terror in the face of nature in his first three collections, through the transitional works from Crow to Cave Birds, to the transformation in Moortown and Remains of Elmet, culminating in the exultation of River.
Happy Holiday, Hammy the Wonder Hamster! - Poppy Harris, £4.99 From a local author, another of the popular books about Hammy the very special hamster. Hammy is very excited about his first trip to the seaside and he can't wait to dig lots of hamster tunnels deep down in the sand! But it's far too easy to lose a little hamster on a very big beach and Bethany isn't the only person who wants to find Hammy.
Leg before Wicket by Colin Goodwin, £6.99
From a Burnley-based author, a first novel about dodgy goings-on involving a local cricket club and property deals, in the style of Tom Sharpe.
Walking in Purbeck - Andrew Bibby, £6.95
From the local author and journalist, a second edition of this guide to 15 circular walks in this lovely area in Dorset.
