I’ve probably already seen more monsters than most do in their whole life, but I’m still none the wiser as to why some monsters work and others don’t. I know even less about why certain monsters push a special button at the back of my brain, evoking all kinds of half-forgotten dreams and feverish imaginings from my earliest childhood. What I do know is that John's monsters absolutely hit the spot

Mortensen's drawings are quite wonderful. The yellow sticky canvas is transformed, the monsters come to life, each with their own personality. And oh, how many monsters and so many types: forest monsters, ghouls, ghost monsters, continental monsters, furry monsters, twin monsters, tentacled monsters, fish monsters, invisible monsters and a single human monster .... It is an incredibly fine concept. Each one completely individual and irrepressible. The monsters are cute at the same time as sinister, and often have a slightly Victorian vibe – tentacles and tweed

Delightful... [a] charming and thoughtful book

Diary of a Dog-walker is a delight, combining gossipy politics and shaggy dog stories adroitly

After a career setback at BBC radio, Edward Stourton took stock of his life with these imaginative meanders with Kudu his English springer spaniel, who seemed to have an angst-free life. This is the world conceived on a canine level, interpreted with intelligent humour and human interest by his affectionate owner

A thoroughly enjoyable ramble through a diverse selection of topics which range from dogs of war and dog fighting to presidential pets and choosing the right name... In turn serious, funny, sad and light-hearted; it's a perfect mixture which is just right for the bedside table

Stourton is a genuinely warm and engaging writer who clearly loves his canine companion, despite his (relatively few) faults, and this little book is a tasty treat for dog owners and dog lovers

Delightful… Juxtaposes the lives of two figures who most shaped [Volk’s] views of what a woman could and should be. Both women were opinionated, secretive, imposing, hot-tempered, charismatic and crazy about clothes… Ms. Volk is thoroughly likeable, warm and generous, with a well-tuned ear and a vivid sense of humour.’

Pure joy... A diptych portrayal of Patricia Volk's gorgeous and infuriating mother and the great fashion designer Elsa Schiaparelli, this is an irresistible tour de force that puts on display Volk's intelligence, wit and sparkling prose.