Most Popular Books by Fiona Macdonald

Discover the ten worst spooky mysteries that are very scary.

From its earliest inhabitants up to the beginnings of Stewart rule, ''Scotland: A Very Peculiar History - Volume 1'' is a lively and informative account of the chequered (or rather, ''tartaned'') history of Scotland. Detailing grisly clan wars and the many mythical creatures to look out for while you''re out in the wild, this ebook gives an objective account of the nation''s history, with ''no added haggis''! Focussing on the more weird and wonderful aspects of Scottish history, such as forgotten towns and mysterious runes, it celebrates how Scotland came to be, and includes fact boxes, quotes, poetry excerpts and recipes you wouldn''t believe!

Dragged from the deepest, darkest depths of the ''Very Peculiar History'' vaults, this book collects tales of terror, morbid myths and frightening facts that will chill you witless. Introduced by everyone''s favourite bloodsucker, Count Dracula, ''Vampires: A Very Peculiar History'' features the origin of vampire-like creatures and a biological and mythological look at human blood (including the best places to bite if you were a vampire!) alongside tales of the real-life vampires that may have inspired the first vampire stories. It includes advice on how to spot a vampire as well as how to become one! Even vampires of film, graphic novel and manga get a taste of the action! Don''t be scared, be prepared...with ''Vampires, A Very Peculiar History''!

Describes the fashions and fabrics that signified high fashion or were worn for special occasions in societies around the world throughout the ages.

Looks at the styles, fashions, and purposes of footwear through the ages.

This volume examines ten of history''s most notorious pirates.

Royalty are always in the news, because people''s imaginations continue to be piqued by their wealth, power, and lifestyles. In this book, which focuses mostly on Great Britain, readers will learn of early kings, such as Alfred the Great, and modern rulers, such as Elizabeth II, and the impact they''ve made on the world. They''ll find out that King Arthur might not have been real, but Shakespeare''s infamous Macbeth was! Much history is discussed as well as the wars that made and slayed rulers over the centuries. Brief quizzes, useful activities, and colorful illustrations make this regal volume an appealing look at these historical figures.

Describes daily life in feudal-era Japan and explains the skills and duties of a samurai warrior.

This book lists some of the most dangerous mythical creatures.

Looks at the clothes worn around the world through history, telling how they were made, what they were made of, and the purposes for which they were designed.

Just when you thought it was safe to take a sneak peek into your stocking, it''s ''Christmas: A Very Peculiar History''. Taking an unbiased view of the myth and mystery surrounding the origins of the yuletide season, this book introduces mindbending facts about the holiday season and shatters the myths surrounding some of Christmas'' most treasured and well-known facets: When exactly was Jesus born? Why is Santa''s outfit red and white? Where do we get Christmas trees from? What''s the snow in a snowglobe made of? What''s Boxing Day all about? ''Christmas: A Very Peculiar History'' takes a sideways look at bizarre yuletide customs and stories from around the world, such as Santa''s evil sidekick, the terrifying Krampus, and the Scandinavian celebration of Saint Lucy. So leave the mince pies on the mantlepiece if you''ve been good and block up your chimneys if you''ve been bad, because ''Christmas: A Very Peculiar History'' is here.

It''s the end of the 15th century, and your local castle is looking for a jailer. Are you up to the job? Your charges will include all sorts of people, from hardened criminals to people with mental illnesses, and you won’t be expected to treat them kindly… This title in the best-selling children’s history series, You Wouldn''t Want To…, features full-colour illustrations which combine humour and accurate technical detail and a narrative approach placing readers at the centre of the history, encouraging them to become emotionally-involved with the characters and aiding their understanding of what life would have been like in a medieval dungeon. Informative captions, a complete glossary and an index make this title an ideal introduction to the conventions of information books for young readers. It is an ideal text for Key Stage 2 shared and guided reading and helps achieve the goals of the Scottish Standard Curriculum 5-14.

This brand-new series puts readers in the shoes of famous historical figures during their childhoods, with an emphasis on the gruesome and ghastly bits. A lively and varied mix of types of information – including thrilling prose, stunning comic strips, fact boxes and timelines – bring their stories to life in a way that feels fresh and fun for reluctant readers. Kids in History: Mary Queen of Scots gives a fast-paced and fascinating account of the important events from Mary’s childhood, including her dangerous escape from Scotland, marriage into the French royal family and a young adulthood beset with disasters and deaths.

Describes the development of cities, from the early agricultural centers in the Fertile Crescent to modern metropolises in industrialized countries.

It''s not all longing looks across the dining room from that high-class gentleman! Life as a Victorian servant was tough, tough, tough! Discover the bizarre and oh-so-strict rules one had to keep to when serving the dignitaries in ''Victorian Servants: A Very Peculiar History''. Rise up through the ranks from washerwoman to housemaid to ladies'' maid and beyond, but mind you don''t keep any ''followers'', as boyfriends are immoral and are strictly not allowed! While you wait on hand and foot from 5.30 am to 11 pm you won''t even have time to rest your own. The chamber pots are certainly not to be sniffed at, and remember if the bell rings once, you are wanted. It''s hard work but it''s better than the alternative: begging, returning home penniless or heading to the workhouse. You''ll discover stories of suffering and household tips galore in ''Victorian Servants: A Very Peculiar History''!

Marrying Henry VIII was not an easy option. This book provides tips such as: Think carefully before accepting his proposal and give birth to a son. It also describes Henry VIII and his wives, as well as information on key figures and events of the time.

The Celts lived thousands of years ago, but their myths are filled with characters, creatures, and stories that have fascinated people ever since. This book mixes dramatic retellings and non-fiction information to give a full picture of Celtic myths, exploring the gods, goddesses, heroes, villains, tricksters, and quests that make Celtic myths and legends so compelling.

Describes the job requirements, training, physical demands, compensation, and daily life of a knight in the Middle Ages.

See life through the eyes of one of the most unfortunate people in European history – Mary, Queen of Scots! Crowned as a baby, widowed at 18, schemed against in your own country and menaced by the superpower next door – your life is not going to be a bed of roses. This title in the best-selling children’s history series, You Wouldn''t Want To…, features full-colour illustrations which combine humour and accurate technical detail and a narrative approach placing readers at the centre of the history, encouraging them to become emotionally-involved with the characters and aiding their understanding of what life would have been like as Mary, Queen of Scots. Informative captions, a complete glossary and an index make this title an ideal introduction to the conventions of information books for young readers. It is an ideal text for Key Stage 2 shared and guided reading and helps achieve the goals of the Scottish Standard Curriculum 5-14.

Taking a unique look at one of the most acclaimed and best-loved English writers of the nineteenth century, ''Charles Dickens, A Very Peculiar History'' asks why, what, where, how and who the Dickens was Charles Dickens? Why did he keep a pet raven that pecked at his children''s shins? Why did he have a tunnel built under the road in front of his country house? Was his dying corpse really carried from his mistress''s house where he collapsed to his family home, so that he could die ''respectably''? Find out the answers to these questions and even more bizarre ones throughout the book, which features quirky stories and fascinating trivia about this singularly complex man and consummate artist.

Describes what life was like for ancient civilizations in Central America; includes step-by-step projects to help you recreate the past.

You are a 12-year-old girl living in Britain in the 1880s. You are about to start work for a wealthy family. You will be busy all day long as a Victorian servant. This title can be used as a background approach to wider issues in Victorian times, such as class divides, daily life and the position of men and women. This title in the best-selling children’s history series, You Wouldn''t Want To…, features full-colour illustrations which combine humour and accurate technical detail and a narrative approach placing readers at the centre of the history, encouraging them to become emotionally-involved with the characters and aiding their understanding of what life would have been like working as a Victorian servant. Informative captions, a complete glossary and an index make this title an ideal introduction to the conventions of information books for young readers. It is an ideal text for Key Stage 2 shared and guided reading and helps achieve the goals of the Scottish Standard Curriculum 5-14.

Learn the surprising truth about pain: how it actually helps keep us alive, healthy, and feeling good. You Wouldn’t Want to Live Without Pain! is part of a brand-new science and technology strand within the internationally acclaimed You Wouldn’t Want to Be series. The clear, engaging text and humorous illustrations bring the subject to life and stimulate young readers'' curiosity about the world around them. Specially commissioned cartoon-style illustrations in full colour make these books attractive and accessible even to reluctant readers. Information is conveyed through captions, labels and humorous speech bubbles in addition to the main text. Illustrated sidebars headed ‘How It Works’, ‘Top Tip’ or ‘You Can Do It’ supply more facts, describe simple, safe experiments, or steps that readers can take to help make the world a better place. Each volume includes a timeline and a list of ‘Did You Know?’ facts.

Provides a colourful and informative introduction to various mummies from around the world, including Egypt, and the process of mummification. Includes fun facts, cartoons and questions.

The first volume of this spellbinding anthology features some of the most gripping, fantastical and entrancing tales from Roman mythology, including the adventures of Aeneas after his escape from Troy and the story of how Romulus and Remus were raised by a wolf to become the first rulers of Rome. The tales are beautifully illustrated and retold in a manner that will engage very young readers and instil in them a love for storytelling, the power of imagination and the past. Perfect for bedtime reading! Includes the following 8 stories: The Adventures of Aeneas Part One and Two, Aeneas in the Underworld, Romulus and Remus, The Golden Chair, Pomona and Vertumnus, Hercules and the Giant Who Spat Fire, Arethusa – The Girl Who Gave Water

A graphic novel adaption of Charlotte Bronte''s tale of Jane Eyre who has a miserable childhood. But when she gets a job as governess at Thornfield Hall she finds a secret that could destroy all her dreams of happiness. Includes information about the Brontë family.

Take an incredible tour through a 16th century mosque. Explore the story of the commissioning and building of the Süleymaniye mosque in Constantinople (Istanbul), one of the masterpieces of Islamic architecture. It describes the religious, educational and charitable activities carried out in the mosque, and the role of the mosque in the life of the Muslim community. It outlines the early history of Islam, and the basic features of Muslim beliefs and traditions. Superb cutaway illustrations and pinpoint enlargements accompany the text. Informative captions, maps, a complete glossary and an index enhance the book''s educational value.

Get ready...as a boy growing up in a castle in the Middle Ages, all you want to be is a champion to the king, but can you make it as a medieval knight? This best-selling series engages readers of all levels by making them part of the story. Readers w

Dan North presents a detailed look at the history of exploration, from the amazing travels of the ancient Greeks and Egyptians to the quests to reach the North Pole and the scaling of the world''s highest peaks.

Presents facts about life for the nineteenth-century pioneers on the American frontier.

Taking a unique look at one of the world''s most acclaimed and best-loved poets, ''Robert Burns, A Very Peculiar History'' provides a fascinating insight into the life and times of Scotland''s bard. Take a wee stroll through his romantic yet tragic life, and join him on his journey from underdog to celebrity. With much reference to his most famous works, Fiona Macdonald explores his profound, passionate poetry, as well as his use of the Scots language and his inspirations and influences. Featuring quirky stories and entertaining trivia throughout, find out what makes Burns so captivating to countless millions around the globe.

As a young servant to Catholic conspirator and would-be assassin Guy Fawkes, you''ll witness the secretive planning and thwarted execution of the infamous Gunpowder Plot of 1605 at first-hand. Plunge into a morally-murky world of political intrigue, persecution and religious extremism not so very far away from our own... This title in the best-selling children’s history series, You Wouldn''t Want To…, features full-colour illustrations which combine humour and accurate technical detail and a narrative approach placing readers at the centre of the history, encouraging them to become emotionally-involved with the characters and aiding their understanding of what life would have been like as Guy Fawkes. Informative captions, a complete glossary and an index make this title an ideal introduction to the conventions of information books for young readers. It is an ideal text for Key Stage 2 shared and guided reading and helps achieve the goals of the Scottish Standard Curriculum 5-14.

Text and cutaway illustrations depict the construction of a medieval cathedral and the way of life inside it.

Describes medieval daily life, families, food, clothing, health, education, work, entertainment, government, travel, warfare, customs, and beliefs in Europe.