Bücher veröffentlicht von Austin Macauley

Have you ever wondered why so many scientific handbooks on birds use paintings rather than photographs, or why the painters Killian Mullarney and Lars Johnson are such significant figures in ornithology? This book gives an account of the 500 years during which bird-painting reached such heights, and it traces the growth of scientific realism in this field. It shows how scientific understanding has shaped the art, and how artistic style has left its mark on the science. Birds cross frontiers unhindered, and the language of painting too knows no national barriers. This book explores the huge contribution of German painting to the international tradition. It looks at the work of great artists - Dürer and Rembrandt. It introduces the fascinating but neglected artists who made the landmark handbooks of the past. It pays tribute to those major figures of the last 150 years who brought the art to its perfection: Josef Wolf and Bruno Liljefors, and looks briefly at the competition with photography at the start of the twentieth century. It reveals the interlocking of art with the science of ornithology, as it was developed by figures such as Buffon and Darwin.

In Moonshadows, the poems beckon to the elusive whispers of inner dreams, akin to tender 'moonbeams' lighting the dark corners of the soul. Each piece oscillates between delicate tenderness and a raw, abrasive spirit, offering a spiritual balm one moment, and presenting a playful or challenging muse the next. As you traverse through the pages, you'll encounter a tapestry of characters - elusive, amusing, spiritual, or grim - each adding a unique hue to the poetic landscape. With every verse, feel the gentle kiss of moonshine on your brow and the invigorating caress of the wind as it carries you through a realm of emotions, thoughts, and whimsical moonlit adventures.

Daniel wants to become a lawyer to right the wrongs he believes have been inflicted on his people by the white colonisers. His schoolteacher convinces him that he can arrange a university education. Instead, he is abducted and is trained as a terrorist. He returns to his country and uses his skills to fight the invaders of his land.Peter fulfils his ambition to be a pilot, flying a combat helicopter against the country's enemies who are seeking to overthrow the government. Often flying into action with only a Perspex windscreen to protect him, he has to learn to control his fear.This is the story of boys forced into different sides of a war, pawns of the architects of the conflict, Cecil Rhodes, Robert Mugabe and other nationalists, Ian Smith the Rhodesian Prime Minister, and his nemesis, British PM Harold Wilson.As the two become men and seek their destinies, they become adversaries in an unconventional conflict that causes significant loss of life and injuries, untold misery, and results in the devastation of a country once described as 'Africa's bread basket,' and which became 'Africa's basket case.'The terrorist and the pilot meet several times on opposing sides of the Rhodesian Bush War determined to prevail.On one side, a terrorist skilled in terrorising the population using hit and run tactics. On the other, a highly skilled pilot flying a highly manoeuvrable aircraft with significant speed, armament, and height advantages.Can there be any winners in this conflict?

Double Trouble, a large, brown, hairy, two-tailed loveable but irrepressible dog had been abandoned at a pet shop. He was discovered by two children, Emily, and Darcy, who took him home, to their mother's dismay. DT, who loved everyone and everything, caused chaos wherever he went. With only the best of intentions, he wanted to be involved in every situation, but although he was adored by all children, he was not always accepted by adults. Underneath that hairy coat was a heart of gold which was invisible to most grown-ups. But, in the end, DT always managed to win over even the hardest of hearts because, just as he loved everyone, he wanted to be loved by others.

Venture into the mystical realms where dreams stir amidst the mists of time awaiting your discovery. The whisper of destiny beckons from the horizon, tempting your soul into the unknown. As the moon casts its glow upon the still waters, treasures of the deep arise to greet the night, revealing the heart's stolen moments: a woman's tender reminiscence of a love that slipped through the sands of time.Bound by broken promises, the chains of the past rattle, heralding the emergence of the Oracle's salvation. The silver chalice of the Wiccan way stands solemn, casting blessings upon the hearth of souls, as temptation unfurls, offering a tantalizing glimpse into a man's journey amidst the shades of truth and the sins veiled in the night's embrace.The ancient Gaelic melodies of battle resound through the ages, serenading the goddesses of lost tales. Under the watchful eyes of summer's blaze, betrayal's sting festers, while deceit lays its cool touch with autumn's descent. Amidst this eternal dance of fate and desire, a path of destined light unveils itself.

In the maze of modern life, we often find ourselves asking, 'Why me?' As the world rapidly evolves, our personal experiences shape our perspectives, often leading us to confront the universal challenges of existence. Blush delves into this existential journey through the eyes of a cynic beset by misfortune and grappling with mental illness, struggling to find their place in a constantly shifting reality.This book offers an unflinching exploration of what it means to be young and lost in an age where everyone else seems to be rapidly advancing on express tracks to success. It poignantly captures the feeling of being stranded on 'platform five', awaiting a train that might never arrive. Through a narrative that weaves together themes of love, intimacy, mental health, self-acceptance, and self-criticism, Blush resonates with the shared human experience of navigating a world that often feels bewildering and unforgiving.Blush is more than a story; it is a journey into the depths of the human psyche, an examination of why the world can seem so strange and harsh, and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of life's relentless complexities.

Betrayal. Loss. War. In a world like this, these ideas unfortunately become common place, unavoidable. Sometimes a man can be killed when the sun is at its brightest and the birds are singing beautiful songs, and love might be found when the world is at its coldest. As a war threatens the continent of Icehelm due to the greed-driven decision of a terrible king, two brothers, one gutsy and one fearful, must fight to save what little family they have left: their sister. The northern Kingdom of Snowhelm, a place of warriors and honour, take up their arms to claim vengeance against the High King and his tainted blood, leading to a tale to be spoken for generations-though tame compared to what the future might hold.In the shadows, dark eyes watch as the world tears itself apart, striking only when the enemy is at its weakest and taking one step closer to Judgement. This is a tale of legends and villains, a song of many verses.

Laugh, weep, be moved, challenged, and inspired, as you are taken on a journey of discovery. You might identify with the students - or relate to this teacher! Delve into her world, as she fulfils her childhood dream of becoming a wise and compassionate teacher.She considers teaching as the greatest privilege and responsibility. She taught her school subjects, but she also taught young people life skills: how to learn, laugh, live, love, forgive - and what really matters, in this short life we are gifted.She strongly believes that students need acceptance, and self-belief, in order to learn and to love learning - that they are worth her time, interest, and care.Her methods of engaging the interest of students were rarely traditional. But they worked! If students had difficulty, her calling as a teacher was to "find another way". Every time.You will be touched not only by her variety of classroom stories, but by her honesty, humour, wit, and insights, but you'll be hooked with her 'teaching' experiences as she travels with seven teenagers for three weeks in a foreign country. What could possibly go wrong?Enjoy.

Birmingham, 1993. Under dim streetlamps, childhood friends Thomas, David, Henry, and Ernest drunkenly wind through the rainy streets, heading for the pub. While the others earn honest livings, David hatches risky schemes, plunging toward illegal drug trade and endangering them all. As his thirst for fast cash grows wilder, tensions mount among the foursome. Will their bond prove strong enough to stop David's fall into Birmingham's criminal underworld or will greed take them all down?

Life is a journey full of fun, adventure, and the unexpected. For sisters Sarah and Clara, who have been raised by their father to watch out for one another, there are challenges around every turn, along with determination and mystery. Follow the sisters as they navigate dreams, curiosity, love, and rivalry. Will Sarah heed the guidance and protection of her elder sister Clara as she tries to steer her along the right path? And who will be there for Clara when darkness falls, helping her rediscover the lightness and joy of better days?

Millie works the night shift at her local hospital's switchboard, feeling undervalued and unappreciated. She harbours regrets about not pursuing her dreams and her passion for music, particularly singing. However, her small Cumbrian town poses a challenge; with many pubs closed and those remaining already featuring regular bands and singers, opportunities seem scarce.This dynamic is set to change thanks to Pippa, the surrogate mother of Millie's best friend, who presents a golden opportunity. For Millie, relocating to the South could be the break she needs. But this new chapter is complicated when Sam, the one man she's never forgotten, unexpectedly reappears in her life.Meanwhile, Millie's cousin Harry is secretly in love with Amber, Millie's best friend. Although Harry confessed his feelings to Amber before she moved South, the outcome was unresolved. Millie encourages Harry to fight for Amber, believing they are meant to be together. Yet, unbeknownst to Amber, Harry harbours a significant secret, known only to Millie.As the story unfolds, the question remains: can Sam and Millie overcome their past differences and open up to each other? Will Millie let her guard down? There's hope that the charm of Pebble Bank Bay will work its magic on these two couples.

I was born in the heart of London's East End, where the gritty neighbourhoods of Wapping and the West End intersect with the grand commerce of the City. This spiderweb of commerce has been the financial capital of the world since the Middle Ages, yet just beyond the posh centre lies the hardscrabble poverty of London's working class. From this seat of empire that once ruled the largest domain the world had ever seen, my story begins.

In a perilous era, only the most skilled are summoned to safeguard our way of life.Amidst the allure of sex and drugs, the deceit of crooks, and the intricate dance between the police and doctors, this tale offers a deep dive into the world of clinical medicine. It spotlights a unique cadre of practitioners determined to make a difference, even as they navigate the challenges of an underfunded NHS, a government stretched thin, and a public often left in the dark.Medicine is not just a profession; it's a calling. It demands relentless dedication, continuous learning, and the rare euphoria that comes from saving a life. This story captures the essence of this dedication, juxtaposing the highs of medical triumphs against the relentless onslaught of disease.

Detective Lieutenant Moorland finds himself ensnared in a chilling escape room, a twisted reenactment of a past he's struggled to forget. As he navigates this deadly labyrinth, he's haunted by an unsolved case: a string of gruesome murders where each victim bears a violent message and suffers horrific mutilation. But is this all a smokescreen designed to mislead him?As Moorland delves deeper, he uncovers a disturbing pattern. These acts of savagery aren't new; they're part of a horrifying legacy. He must grapple with a lethal blend of morality and methodology to unravel the mystery. But the clock is ticking, the bodies are piling up, and the stakes are skyrocketing.Engulfed in a web of dark secrets and manipulation, Moorland faces suspects as cunning as himself. Will he discover not just who is committing these heinous crimes, but also the puppet master behind the curtain? Navigating this perilous path could be the most harrowing journey of his career, leading him to a truth so soaked in blood it's indelible.Time is running out. In a game of intellect versus malevolence, will Moorland's keen mind be enough to bring a killer, and whoever is pulling their strings, to justice?

This is a diverse and exciting new collection of modern and historical pieces for young performers, aged 7 to 17 years. A selection of speeches designed to empower and authenticate young girls, teenagers, and individuals who identify as female, as well as numerous gender-fluid roles.The monologues are suitable for acting examinations, competitions, and auditions - or any situation where a solo scene is required from a published book of monologues. For those learners who study LAMDA examinations, the collection provides options for the learner's 'own choice' category from grades Entry - Grade 5. Vitally, the themes are fresh and relevant to young people in a modern world; giving learners wider opportunities to explore, learn, and grow as actors, inspired by new and original writing, which is fun, challenging, and meaningful to perform.

The Romans called him 'domum cattus'; we call him, 'the house cat.' As part of his 'No-Sense' series, author Robyn Smythe asks you these questions: Have you ever wondered what is going on in the devious mind of your feline companion? What they do when you are not in the house with them? Do they just eat, sleep and go to the litter tray?Well, from the mind of the author who brought you The Animal Tea Party, comes a comic insight into the world of the domestic house cat, featuring instances witnessed by the author himself during many years of observing his own feline friend.Follow Fudge from the moment he is chosen and taken home, through his early years of navigating his new home, or kingdom as he refers to it, as he tirelessly tries to train his human servants to wait on him hand and paw - sorry, foot. A perilous visit to the vets where he leaves something behind and his fun and games with seagulls. Funny and thought-provoking, join us as we delve into the feline mind. Are you the master or the servant?

In The Diary of a Girl, a young girl's life is upended by a catastrophic event that renders her city perilously unsafe. Amidst this chaos, her family decides to leave, desperately seeking refuge. With communication lines severed, they embark on a journey towards safety, eventually finding solace in the close-knit community on Scotland's serene Black Isle. It's here that the girl encounters The Boy, sparking a series of adventures and experiences that enrich her life in unexpected ways. But even in this newfound haven, questions linger. Is she truly safe in this remote corner of the world? What does the future hold for her in this unfamiliar place? And, most crucially, amidst the uncertainty that surrounds them, can she and The Boy muster the strength and resilience to survive? The diary unveils a tale of hope, resilience, and the enduring quest for a safe harbour in a tumultuous world.

This is the tale of a small fish forced to flee his homeland after unexpected tragedy strikes. His arduous journey to the sea becomes a crucible, forging invaluable life lessons along the way. But no experience proves more formative than his struggle to liberate a school of fish from the ruthless reign of a tyrannical, self-appointed religious leader. In this decisive battle that pits oppression against freedom, the fish and his companion come to grasp the true significance of liberty and its precious fragility.As he continues toward the safety of the boundless ocean, our young hero carries deep convictions about the dignity of free will, individual choice, and the courage to defend them, timeless virtues purchased through sacrifice no matter one's size or strength. With resonance across the political and the personal, The Mystery of Freedom renders universal truths through the eyes of the smallest among us.

Imagine a man straddling both sides of good and evil, struggling to regain his balance. He clutches onto both aspects with his bewildered mind, pondering his own senses. As he stands there, his mind races with questions. What is the meaning of his existence? Why has he been placed in this moment, at this time, with these thoughts and feelings? Is there a purpose to his life, or is it all just a random series of events? 'I know God smells terribly bad, and I'm ready to bury him deep in the ground. But is this really the right thing to do? Is there a better solution? Should I try to make the smell more bearable, or is this the only course of action? I'm torn between doing what's best for God and the reality of the situation,' he thinks.Has he fallen into the river of dilemma and been washed away from his suffering? Will this man unravel the mystery of his existence, or will he be swallowed up by the abyss of his own mind?

Embark on a whimsical journey through the myriad facets of memory in Caprice, where each page is an invitation to relive joys and pleasures, often overlooked or cast aside in the rush of the mundane. Amidst the storms and diatribes of the present, let's ascend towards a realm where reflections blossom into a vibrant tapestry of experiences. Cast aside inhibitions, embrace fate's whimsical tune, and traverse through this kaleidoscopic memoir that urges one to explore, evaluate, and revel in life's capricious yet enriching dance.

In his younger days, mysteries consumed him. The allure of Agatha Christie's intricate plots kept him engrossed for hours, as he delved into each twist and turn. Drawing from the vibrant tapestry of his own life - rich, thrilling, and ever-evolving - he crafted a narrative that seamlessly blends his experiences with fiction. While firmly rooted in reality, he infused the tale with creative embellishments, taking full advantage of artistic liberty. After sharing the initial draft with close friends, the overwhelming response was one of surprise, particularly at the story's unexpected climax. Dive in, and let his journey surprise you too.

In the depths of despair, four individuals - Tench, Mark, Hank, and Joe - find themselves navigating the treacherous waters of unemployment, divorce, obesity, and depression. Their lives spiral into an abyss of hopelessness, each day darker than the last. As they inch closer to the precipice of rock bottom, a shared desire ignites within them, a spark of purpose born from desperation. They begin to toy with the notion of vigilantism, finding solace in the idea of reclaiming control and meaning in their lives through daring acts that challenge the very fabric of society.Yet, as their secret lives as vigilantes unfold, a haunting question looms: When will their hunger for justice ever be satiated? In this gripping tale of redemption and retribution, Tench, Mark, Hank, and Joe must grapple with the blurred lines between heroism and madness, ultimately discovering that the path to salvation is as perilous as the darkness they seek to combat.

On their way home from a horse show, Lizzy and her parents encounter a small dog darting perilously close to the freeway. Compelled by compassion, they rescue the frightened animal and welcome him into their family, naming him Freeway. His origins and intended destination remain a mystery, sparking curiosity and wonder. Freeway proves to be a bundle of joy and energy. He's affectionate, brave, independent, and playfully mischievous, delighting in accompanying Lizzy and her friends on their horseback rides across the moors. However, intrigue deepens when Freeway mysteriously vanishes one evening, only to return with an unexpected and lavish item. Questions abound: Where did he find this luxurious gift? What secret adventures is Freeway embarking on?

Detective Inspector Mark Jarvis relives his annus horribilis where a young student, Eva O'Connor, is beaten to within an inch of her life, and three health care workers, who seemingly have no connection with each other, mysteriously disappear. Jarvis' wife is becoming increasingly unwell but unknown to the D.I she hides the real truth behind her illness. Luke Ferguson, a close friend of the Jarvis household, goes missing after Ferguson's wife and daughter are found dead under suspicious circumstances.In a harrowing turn of events, the desolate landscape of Upper Stanton reveals its dark secrets. The renovation of an old pub uncovers the unexpected, plunging Jarvis into a maelstrom of sinister discoveries. Amidst the chaos, the once thriving community of Denton Heights looms ominously, its derelict buildings a haven for crime and despair. As Jarvis grapples with these challenges, a shocking incident outside a hospital captivates public attention, exposing the underbelly of a society plagued by violence and apathy.Jarvis, now retired, is forced to confront his past decisions and their haunting repercussions. His journey through this labyrinth of crime and personal turmoil is a reflection of a world where dreams are often shattered, and the stark reality of urban life leaves its indelible mark. Death of Dreams is a gripping tale of mystery, betrayal, and the quest for justice in a world where the lines between right and wrong are blurred.

The Price of Love unfolds across a century, tracing the enduring bonds of love and friendship amid the changing tides of time. Rooted in a quaint Kent village, the narrative unfurls around Dolly and Polly, two inseparable souls nurtured amidst rustic simplicity. Their youthful days transition into service at the local Manor House, under the genteel watch of Sir Charles, Lady Frances, and the stern yet nurturing Housekeeper, Jenny Armstrong. Yet, as the winds of the Great War sweep across their lives, an era of innocence ends, replaced by an epoch of growth amid trials. As the war's tempest recedes, life's inexorable stream carries them through a kaleidoscope of emotions, intertwining joy, and sorrow in a delicate dance. Through every hardship, the steadfast friendship of Dolly and Polly remains their beacon, each a pillar of strength for the other. Polly becomes a cornerstone of support for her daughter Elizabeth, helping her navigate the turbulent waters of a troubled marriage to Robert. Simultaneously, Dolly navigates through profound loss, her resilience leading her towards rebirth and healing. The Price of Love is a tender homage to the unwavering spirit of friendship and the remarkable resilience of love amid life's inexorable ebbs and flows. Through Dolly and Polly's journey, readers will find a poignant exploration of love's enduring power to heal, to uplift, and to bind hearts together through a century of unyielding change.

When Haydon Heriot arrives at Larkdale Hall, the serene country mansion is suddenly rife with tension and mystery. The drama escalates with Matilda Heriot's budding romance with Alexander Worthington, an Edinburgh city gentleman. Their engagement quickly leads to wedding plans, but chaos ensues when Alexander fails to appear on the big day.The presence of Haydon, initially welcomed by his brother Charles, soon becomes a source of regret. Larkdale Hall transforms from a peaceful retreat into a cauldron of deceit, envy, and petty conflicts, with danger lurking around every corner. The once tranquil estate is now marked by a series of alarming incidents, including the wrecking of Richard Heriot's prized vintage sports car and a fire in the stable block.Faced with escalating chaos, Richard, the patriarch, decides to sell Larkdale Hall. This decision raises questions about the future of the Heriot family. Will they find peace and resolve their emotional turmoil? Can Matilda move past her heartbreak? And do the pages of The Heriots of Larkdale Hall promise love and happiness for these troubled characters? Discover the answers in this captivating tale of a family at a crossroads.

Readers at first will think this short book, Me Is Under Attack, is the lament of a disgruntled curmudgeon convinced that the declining standards in our society portend an irreversible descent into widespread boredom and barbarism. However, as they complete their journey through the always persuasive and sometimes entertaining pages, they will come to discover the author's great hope for a better future and his suggestions for how to bring it about. His recommendation entails strengthening relationships, the sinews of society, by reengaging those same personal standards we seem to be abandoning. And, he recommends we start with that paramount standard, the standard of beauty. It is an easy read and highly recommended for anyone discouraged by the creeping dullness that seems more and more to pervade what once was regarded as western civilization.