{"title":"Books by John Matthews","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"9780008644031","title":"Realms of the Round Table","description":"\u003cp\u003eFully illustrated collection of rare and previously unpublished tales of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table, retold for a new generation by leading Arthurian expert, John Matthews, introduced by Sir John Boorman, director of the classic film, Excalibur, and illustrated with paintings and drawings by Tolkien artist, John Howe.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt is a time of magic and adventure, of chivalry and courtly love, when great evil must be met with heroic deeds. It is a time of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eRealms of the Round Table presents for the first time an extensive collection of forgotten tales, retold for a new generation of readers by a modern-day Merlin, the world-renowned Arthurian authority, John Matthews. Contained within are a rich feast of Arthurian love stories and tales that delve deep into the darker mysteries of the Great Wood and the denizens of fantastic lands beyond. Here also is a heady mixture of magic, faery lore, wisdom and mystery – capturing extraordinary tales of Camelot’s greatest knights, such as Sir Lancelot and Sir Gawain, and others less well known, and soaring from high adventure to mystical accounts of the Grail. There is even an Arthurian Christmas tale!\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThese age-old stories, companions to those collected in the sister-volume, The Great Book of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table, honour the work of Thomas Malory in his legendary Le Morte D’Arthur. They are dramatically brought to life by the luminous paintings and drawings of internationally acclaimed Tolkien artist, John Howe, to present a glorious reimagining of the most influential work of English fantasy ever written.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Hardback","offer_id":55206285738357,"sku":"9780008644031","price":30.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Paperback","offer_id":57682590138741,"sku":"9780008644062","price":10.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9780008644031.jpg?v=1792511525"},{"product_id":"9780008445836","title":"The Great Book of King Arthur and His Knights of the Round Table","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe most famous and influential work of English fantasy ever published, reimagined for a new generation of readers by John Matthews, one of the world’s leading Arthurian experts, and illustrated by internationally acclaimed Tolkien artist, John Howe.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eJourney back to the legendary time of King Arthur and his knights of the Round Table, of Merlin and dragons, of the Great Quest for the Grail and the mysterious Otherworld of Faerie. A time of bravery, treachery and love.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHere, you will read of Avenable, the girl brought up as a boy who becomes a famous knight, and of Gawain's strange birth and his rise to the highest possible rank: Emperor of Rome. Here too are some of the earliest Celtic tales of Arthur, and a completely new version of Merlin the Enchanter's story. There is also the story of Morien, whose adventures are as fantastic and exciting as any to be found in Malory’s Le Morte D’Arthur.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTHE GREAT BOOK OF KING ARTHUR presents for the first time many long-forgotten tales, dramatically brought to life by acclaimed Tolkien artist, John Howe, to deliver a unique reimagining of the most famous and influential work of English fantasy ever written.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Paperback","offer_id":55206290588021,"sku":"9780008445836","price":9.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Hardback","offer_id":57685828632949,"sku":"9780008445805","price":30.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9780008445836_91d11308-b8fd-40ca-9ffc-75ca649139c7.jpg?v=1792599031"},{"product_id":"9780712614177","title":"The Celtic Shaman","description":"Probably the oldest known spiritual discipline, shamanism is the timeless art of living in harmony with creation, providing a universal system to work with today, whatever our religion or spiritual affiliation may be.  A reflection of a living tradition with a supremely practical approach to life, it teaches skills for living and ways to utilize latent abilities which we all possess.  Celtic Shamanism derives from the native traditions of North-West Europe.  The shamanic contribution of the Celts and their predecessors has been overlooked until recently, and is one of the last shamanic traditions to be explored.  While it shares common elements with American, Australian and Siberian teachings, it derives entirely from Celtic source material.    The Celtic Shaman offers a varied and easily followed plan of self-tuition for anyone interested in Celtic mythology and the Western mysteries.","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56294696878453,"sku":"9780712614177","price":18.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9780712614177_78517691-0954-4874-8a6e-94d7f97acbc1.jpg?v=1786032669"},{"product_id":"9780764368790","title":"Voyages with the Celtic Saints","description":"\u003cp\u003eVoyages with the Celtic Saints recounts the inspired lives of the Celtic saints, who carried the torch of the new faith of Christianity to the wild tribespeople of Britain and Ireland. Finding many parallels between their own wisdom and that of the Druids and other teachers of the Celtic people, they adapted their own teachings to include and reshape that of the older wisdom.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFeatures stories from the lives of 14 inspiring Celtic saints who lived between the third and seventh centuries CE\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eScholar John Matthews retells and provides commentary on these stories, making them relevant and accessible to modern readers\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMeditation notes and questions at the end of each chapter for those wishing to deepen their understanding of the stories and question their own voyage\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eUpdates from prior edition with new illustrations by renowned artist Joe Machine and two additional entries on women saints, St. Gwenfrewi and St. Goibniu\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIncludes inspiring foreword by David Spangler, one of the founding figures of the modern New Age movement\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56294822674805,"sku":"9780764368790","price":22.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9780764368790_6de88ed2-5b49-41cc-89f4-678a605cd520.jpg?v=1786032766"},{"product_id":"9780738750569","title":"Arthurian Magic","description":"Discover a complete system of magical work based on the myths of Arthur and his knights. With meditations, rituals, visualizations, and pioneering shamanic techniques, Arthurian Magic leads you on a profound soul journey designed to raise consciousness and offer deep levels of wisdom.  From Dr. John Dee to the Order of the Golden Dawn to the more recent fascination with the mysteries of the Grail and the Templars, dozens of magical groups and countless individuals have turned to the myths of Arthur and his knights for initiation, inspiration, and instruction. This book is a guide for beginners and more experienced practitioners to incorporate the deep spiritual power of the Grail stories into their lives.","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56295908704629,"sku":"9780738750569","price":27.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9780738750569_01d24d83-6697-47df-8643-7b97153f1bc4.jpg?v=1786014506"},{"product_id":"9781398106222","title":"The Nanteos Grail","description":"The theft of the Nanteos Cup from a private home in Wales in 2015 – and its even more remarkable recovery two years later – made the headlines in most major newspapers and featured on BBC Crimewatch. People who had never heard of the cup began asking what it is – a question that has occupied people for the past three hundred years, since word of this mysterious vessel first began to filter out to the world. Now it is on display to the public, for the first time since the nineteenth century, at the National Library of Wales.Though unremarkable to look at, stories of the cup’s powers and of the miraculous cures experienced by those who drank from it have been in circulation for years. At some point it became associated with one of the most enduring stories of all time – the Holy Grail.Written by three experts, The Nanteos Grail collects together for the first time records of the history of the vessel from its first appearance in the Middle Ages to the present. It will appeal to all those interested in historical mysteries and to seekers of the spiritual history of the Grail.","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56298084696437,"sku":"9781398106222","price":16.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781398106222_581bf00e-ace3-4073-bd0d-87902db665ab.jpg?v=1786018478"},{"product_id":"9781398127012","title":"The Book of Merlin","description":"\u003cp\u003eMerlin remains the most famous and familiar image of the magician we possess. Best known as the advisor of the young King Arthur, he was also a famous seer, whose books of prophecies have been reprinted countless times since the Middle Ages and are still in print today. He has reappeared in numerous guises in modern times, in film, TV and books, as well as being studied as an exponent of shamanism, seership and ancient wisdom.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eArthurian expert John Matthews examines the many guises of Merlin ‒ as seer, prophet, magician and, perhaps surprisingly, as lover, and as an inspirer of people from all walks of life. He traces the historical origin of Merlin as a Celtic warrior, the later literary forms of his growing legend in the myths of Arthur, and his more recent manifestations in fantasy writing. Also explored is the important connection between Merlin and the Druids.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSpanning the ages and delving into some of the most colourful corners of human history, The Book of Merlin presents a new look at an age-old character. The author has provided a new translation of the poems of Myrddin Wyllt, Merlin’s prophecies in the wilderness: ‘Snow to my knees, ice in my beard.’\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56298118119797,"sku":"9781398127012","price":10.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781398127012_6e75bd0e-0004-498a-a912-ceb2273cf45c.jpg?v=1786018403"},{"product_id":"9781398112155","title":"Artorius","description":"The search for the historical figure behind what is arguably the most famous cycle of legends ever has been unrelenting over the centuries. Here, two noted Arthurian experts argue that the man whose story started the Arthurian myth was a soldier named Lucius Artorius Castus who lived at the end of the second century AD. Castus’s extraordinary career took him from one end of the Roman Empire to the other, bringing him into contact with tribespeople among the Steppe nomads – in particular the Sarmatians.For several decades the Sarmatians have been thought to be the inspiration behind Arthur’s Knights of the Round Table, among other British tales. The authors provide a fascinating detective story following the life of Lucius Artorius Castus against the colourful backdrop of the history of the reigns of Marcus Aurelius and his son, the barely sane Commodus. In doing so they reveal the manifold links between Artorius and the legend.","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56298391011701,"sku":"9781398112155","price":20.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781398112155_836fdb42-5563-4d1b-809a-54500bdecd3d.jpg?v=1786018666"},{"product_id":"9781445690773","title":"Robin Hood","description":"The identity of Robin Hood has been questioned many times since the Outlaw of Sherwood first sprang to fame in the twelfth century. No two authorities seem able to agree as to his origins, antecedents, or even whether or not he was a historical personage or a mythical figure. Historians, both amateur and professional, have for years been bringing out new books in which they claim to have found ‘the real Robin Hood’, but his identity remains clouded.More recent studies have sought to push the boundaries of the story further out into recorded time – seeking Robin Hood among the records of government and law enforcement, in the ballads of the twelfth to fourteenth centuries, and in the folk memory of the people of Britain. For them, Robin is a product of the ballad-maker’s muse, or a literary fabrication based on the lives and deeds of several outlaws or the garbled memory of an actual person whose real life bore little or no resemblance to the romanticised songs of the ballad-makers.This is the only contemporary book to fully explore the mythology of Robin Hood rather than concentrating on the human identity of the famous outlaw. It ties Robin to the ancient archetype of the Green Man, the lore and legends of the Faery race, to the possible Eastern influence of the English Mummers’ plays, and suggests the real identities of several of the Merry Men.","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56299815010677,"sku":"9781445690773","price":10.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781445690773_c05cf23b-c551-4d0f-afb4-cf011943dca4.jpg?v=1786034556"},{"product_id":"9781473620247","title":"The Secret Lore of London","description":"\u003cp\u003eWith a foreword by Iain Sinclair. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLondon is an ancient city, whose foundation dates back literally thousands of years into the legendary prehistory of these islands.  Not surprisingly it has accumulated a large number of stories, both historic and mythical, during this period, many of which, though faithfully recorded at the time, have lain almost forgotten in dusty libraries throughout the city. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe Secret Lore of London\u003c\/i\u003e is a guide to the legends, including a discussion of their importance as part of the oral tradition of Britain, combining Prehistoric, Celtic, Arthurian, Roman, Saxon and Norman levels - each of which has contributed to the many-layered life of the city. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe first part contains a unique selection of essays (some printed here for the first time) by experts in their fields, each of whom possesses a unique interest in the legends of these islands, and who have written widely on associated themes.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The second part of the book will consist of a \u003cb\u003eGazetteer\u003c\/b\u003e of the sites mentioned which are still in existence, together with various other sites of associated interest, compiled by the Editor, the contributors, and members of the London Earth Mysteries Group. This part will be fully updated and extended to include many more sites.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e  The result is a wide ranging and wholly fascinating book, with wide sales application possible. A series of appendixes will include William Stukley's extraordinary document The Brill, which relates to the ancient prehistoric sites around the area of present day St. Pancras, and excerpts from some of the best known 19th and early 20th century works on Legendary London by Lewis Spence and Harold Bayley\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eContributors to the book are: \u003cbr\u003eNigel Pennick\u003cbr\u003eJohn Matthews\u003cbr\u003eCaroline Wise\u003cbr\u003eCaitlín Matthews\u003cbr\u003eCarol Clancy \u003cbr\u003eR.J. Stewart\u003cbr\u003eBernard Nesfield-Cookson\u003cbr\u003eGareth Knight\u003cbr\u003eRobert Stephenson\u003cbr\u003eGeraldine Beskin\u003cbr\u003eChesca Potter\u003cbr\u003eWilliam Stukeley\u003cbr\u003eLewis Spence\u003cbr\u003eHarold Bayley\u003cbr\u003eAlan V. Insole\u003cbr\u003eRoss Nichols\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56301107544437,"sku":"9781473620247","price":16.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781473620247_60d5e5db-dabe-486e-a09b-5a68980f16de.jpg?v=1786021191"},{"product_id":"9781526749154","title":"Freight Trains in the North of England","description":"We all remember the famous trains of yesteryear like The Flying Scotsman, The Royal Scot and The Waverley, passenger trains from the great days of steam, but behind the glamour of these celebrated expresses were the dirty unloved goods trains. Well into the 1980s it was possible to ride behind and experience most locomotives on passenger services, but the arrival of the HST and diesel multiple units soon changed this, and with the odd exception, today's locos can only be found working on freight trains. The interest in the goods or freight train has risen greatly in recent years even against a backdrop of reduced depots, yards and variety of workings. This book brings together the work of many of our most outstanding railway photographers featuring some of their best work from the mid 1950s right up to the present day. The old local trip with its wooden trucks, the long mixed goods, the heavy steel train and Speedlink services all feature from the steam, diesel and electric eras. Put these trains into picturesque Northern landscapes or set them against almost forgotten industrial backdrops and we hopefully have a book that captures the Freight Train in the North of England.  AUTHOR: John Matthews was born at Preston Royal Infirmary in September 1951 and grew up in a terraced street devoid of a single car! He left school at sixteen with the modest achievement of two GCE O levels in English and Mathematics. A job in a bank and a short spell as a bus driver followed.   200 colour and b\/w illustrations","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56303265743221,"sku":"9781526749154","price":25.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781526749154_1422ca3a-0b2b-4f03-b91c-759a9bb953c7.jpg?v=1786022461"},{"product_id":"9781786786654","title":"The Book of Celtic Verse","description":"\u003cb\u003eA beautiful and evocative collection of poems to guide you through fifteen centuries of Celtic mythologies, traditions and histories.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis is an inspiring, magical and beautifully packaged collection of Celtic poetry compiled by a leading authority on Celtic tradition. Arranged into five thematic chapters, this anthology reflects the uniquely Celtic love of nature, history, love, myth, magic and spirituality. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFrom the earliest times, the language-loving Celts revered their bards: they established a poetic tradition beginning in the 6th century with the intricate magical verse of Taliesin. It continued in the rich medieval works of Dafydd ap Gwilym and Rhys Goch and stayed strong in the 19th and 20th centuries with Gerald Manley Hopkins, and writers such as R.J. Stewart, Robin Williamson and Catherine Fisher. Matthews has chosen the finest works by the most diverse range of poets and translated many of the oldest for this volume. His selection will offer readers a window on to the world of the ancient Celtic peoples, celebrating their culture and the great masterpieces of lyricism and brilliance that have survived the ages.","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56305611800949,"sku":"9781786786654","price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781786786654_a782247e-6066-4bd1-894f-5f46ffa362c3.jpg?v=1786025984"},{"product_id":"9781800691292","title":"Wild Magic","description":"Want to delve deeper into the concepts that made The Wildwood Tarot wildly popular? This workbook further explores those powerful ancient traditions. Wild Magic invokes the power of the Wildwood – the Green Man and Green Woman, as well as all the living archetypes of the forest, such as Herne the Hunter and Robin-in-the-Hood. Journey across time to the pre-Celtic world where primal forces, in the guise of animal, bird, and fish, roamed free and opened doorways into the otherworld of the Ancestors. With chapters on the Lore of the Wild, the Wheel of the Year, shamanic methods of examining the wild, and meditations designed to enable personal encounters with Wildwood archetypes, as well as newly crafted rituals enabling readers to celebrate festivals such as the Midsummer and Midwinter Solstices, the book takes a fresh and informed look at a set of ancient traditions applied to the present.","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56306679513461,"sku":"9781800691292","price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781800691292_823e4743-f7b3-4b8f-8283-18649797848c.jpg?v=1786026903"},{"product_id":"9781846864711","title":"Arthur of Albion","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis vivid retelling brings together the best-known stories about Arthur and his court, exploring the relationships between the main characters in the legends. Magnificent illustrations by Pavel Tatarnikov add to the atmosphere of Arthurian England.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56308465140085,"sku":"9781846864711","price":8.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781846864711_9ad97fc7-d193-487d-b17e-c0d27b3c64af.jpg?v=1786029248"},{"product_id":"9798888502198","title":"The Prophecies of Merlin","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eReveals forgotten Arthurian lore hidden in the prophetic language of a medieval text\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIncludes the story of Merlin’s birth as the son of a demon, how he was born already able to speak, how his magic ensured he was not killed by his babysitter, and details of his affair with the Lady of the Lake\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eShares stories of Percival’s first contact with the Grail and King Arthur’s connection with the legendary mystical king Prester John\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIncludes early Welsh prophecies attributed to Merlin, prophecies compiled by historian Geoffrey of Monmouth, and the letter of Prester John that inspired Columbus\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMaarten Haverkamp acquired a French book from 1498 titled \u003ci\u003eThe Prophecies of Merlin\u003c\/i\u003e that claimed to be prophecies given by the legendary magician. The book was really a compilation of documents collected by an unknown 13th century monk. Working with John Matthews, Maarten spent five years translating the mysteries hidden in this obscure book.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePresenting their translation and commentary, the authors share forgotten stories of early Arthurian literature and magic. They share the tale of Merlin’s birth from a demon, how he was born able to speak, and how his magic ensured he was not killed by his guardian. Merlin’s affair with the Lady of the Lake is detailed, ending with his imprisonment in a tomb. Other stories include Percival’s first contact with the Grail and King Arthur’s connection with the mystical king Prester John. The authors show how \u003ci\u003eThe Prophecies of Merlin\u003c\/i\u003e sheds new light on the world of King Arthur and the women who learned magic from Merlin.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTo reveal the esoteric meaning of this work, the authors include Welsh prophecies attributed to Merlin (translated by John and Caitlín Matthews), other prophecies attributed to Merlin that were compiled by Geoffrey of Monmouth, and the original letter of Prester John that inspired the Polo family and Columbus to search for India.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDiscovering a hitherto lost or forgotten book about Merlin and King Arthur is a rare event these days. Yet here the authors present a virtually forgotten and, to date, untranslated book, which includes much that is new—and exciting—about the legendary king and his magical adviser. Through their translation and insightful passage by passage commentary, they reveal secrets long hidden behind the obscure language of the prophetic utterances.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56311489331573,"sku":"9798888502198","price":27.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9798888502198_6e81fb82-89bf-4e42-beb5-a14ec19b662e.jpg?v=1786032886"},{"product_id":"9781399094801","title":"Passenger Trains in the North of England","description":"Passenger Trains in the North of England features over 270 black and white pictures and takes the reader northbound from South Yorkshire and Cheshire to the Scottish Borders. Also covered in detail are a wide selection of pictures from Cumbria, West and North Yorkshire among others. We see main line expresses, branch line and local trains, plus special workings running along today's railways and lines that have faded into history.   Steam, diesel and electric powered trains are pictured right across the North of England including industrial and city views plus a great selection taking in the highly picturesque locations of the northern hills and Dales. Embracing a period of 65 years the book features images from as early as 1957 right through the late steam era up to the present day.   The stars of the book are obviously the trains of the past, but just as important are the top photographers who have kindly provided these high-quality pictures for your enjoyment. While the author has sneaked a few of his own efforts in, the main contributions come from the great names of the railway photography world including Gavin Morrison, Les Nixon, Peter Fitton, John Whiteley, John Cooper Smith and others.","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56312267211125,"sku":"9781399094801","price":20.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781399094801_cccee203-0307-446a-9c0c-c4f0f7762147.jpg?v=1786019963"},{"product_id":"9780764370878","title":"The Camelot Oracle","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eEmbark on a mythic journey from Camelot and receive guidance from its legendary figures with \u003cem\u003eThe Camelot Oracle\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e  \u003cp\u003eFrom renowned author John Matthews: Enter the mystical world of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table with \u003cem\u003eThe Camelot Oracle\u003c\/em\u003e, a transformative divination tool that offers oracular guidance from the legendary figures you encounter along your journey.\u003c\/p\u003e  \u003cp\u003eRooted in the timeless Arthurian myths, \u003cem\u003eThe Camelot Oracle\u003c\/em\u003e invites you to walk in the footsteps of heroes, face challenges, and uncover profound truths about your life’s path. Unfold the included \u003cem\u003eMap of the Lands Adventurous\u003c\/em\u003e and unwrap the included Place, Hallows, and Character cards, and your journey from Camelot is ready to begin. With a champion and companion at your side, discover the path to where your challenger awaits to hear and answer your questions.\u003c\/p\u003e  \u003cp\u003eThis enhanced, reissued edition of the original features 46 total cards, including four added Hallows cards, two new alternative character cards, and a beautifully redesigned card back and book design. The guidebook is newly revised with entries on the new cards and additional insights.\u003c\/p\u003e    \u003cp\u003eWhether you’re a novice or an experienced practitioner, \u003cem\u003eThe Camelot Oracle\u003c\/em\u003e will inspire clarity, self-discovery, and a deeper connection to your inner wisdom.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56368182559093,"sku":"9780764370878","price":31.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9780764370878.jpg?v=1786032794"},{"product_id":"9781350387225","title":"Acting","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAn accessible and authoritative compendium of key concepts in acting, this book reveals how the craft has been understood by the world’s leading practitioners and theorists.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWhat is ‘truthful’ acting? Am I ‘freeing the voice’ and being ‘authentic’ in my performance? The idioms of acting can both delight and confound. While enthusiastic theatregoers and aspiring actors may be attracted to studio slang, theorists and practitioners of the craft will argue fiercely over the meaning and use of professional terms, while academics dispute the very philosophical basis of concepts such as ‘emotion’ and ‘imagination’, ‘believability’ and ‘character’. \u003ci\u003eActing: Keywords and Concepts \u003c\/i\u003eis for readers from all these communities of interest and it provides a practical and reliable evidence-based account of the most significant ideas about acting in circulation today.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e It is the first book in the field to use innovative computational analysis to produce a comprehensive critical investigation of concepts and terms from a vast corpus of over 1,000 books on acting. By mining the world’s largest digitized database of literary sources on the craft, it provides the most complete and wide-ranging account of the ideas and ideals that define the craft of acting. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOrganized in digestible sections with pithy ‘keyword’ sub­headings, this book makes key concepts easily referenceable and reveals the politics and ideologies at play in both dominant and niche acting schools and traditions, indicating how ideas and practices have developed over time as well as where acting theory and practice is heading.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ci\u003eActing: Keywords and Concepts \u003c\/i\u003ewill prove an indispensable companion to anyone interested in the craft of acting and the meaning of its key ideas.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56368688005493,"sku":"9781350387225","price":19.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781350387225_c0dfa8d4-2f57-4e46-a3e5-9042b8ab40f4.jpg?v=1786018778"},{"product_id":"9780764369766","title":"The John Dee Oracle","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eDiscover the wisdom of the renowned Elizabethan magus Dr. John Dee and let it guide you through the mysteries of your own life’s journey.\u003cbr\u003e  \u003cbr\u003e  \u003c\/strong\u003e  \u003cem\u003eThe John Dee Oracle \u003c\/em\u003edraws from the visionary work of Dr. John Dee, the renowned philosopher, astrologer, and magus who stood at the crossroads of science and magic during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. This oracle, created by John Matthews and brought to life through the exquisite artwork of Wil Kinghan, offers seekers a chance to walk in the footsteps of one of history’s most enigmatic figures, delving into the wisdom Dee pursued throughout his lifetime.  \u003cbr\u003e  \u003cbr\u003e  Twenty-nine cards are divided into four sacred towers—health, love, work, and intention—each governed by an archangel who oversees that domain (Uriel, Raphael, Michael, Gabriel), guiding you through life’s challenges with wisdom and insight. Included is a 16\" × 23\" folded diagram featuring the four watchtowers for oracle spreads. \u003cbr\u003e  \u003cbr\u003e    This fully updated reissued edition includes six of Dee’s original Enochian Calls, translated by John Matthews, a new card back design, and an added Gloriana card, which honors Dee’s great patroness, Queen Elizabeth I. \u003cbr\u003e  \u003cbr\u003e    \u003cbr\u003e","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56419605905781,"sku":"9780764369766","price":31.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9780764369766.jpg?v=1786015968"},{"product_id":"the-element-encyclopedia-of-magical-creatures","title":"The Element Encyclopedia of Magical Creatures","description":"From unicorns and trolls to werewolves and griffins, this comprehensive guide is the key to discovering every magical creature from myth, folklore and legend around the world.This compendium of magical creatures explores the history, folklore and mythology of fascinating beasts throughout all the magical worlds. Including stories, celebrations, traditions, and amazing facts, the book spans every major culture across the globe.Many of the fantastic creatures described in the book have appeared in the fictitious worlds of the Brothers Grimm, Lewis Carroll, J.K. Rowling, Tolkien and countless other writers who have stirred our imaginations since childhood fairytales. From unicorns, giants, fairies, elves, goblins, dwarves and trolls to nymphs, mermaids, sphinxes, ogres, cyclops, dragons, salamanders, basilisks, banshees, werewolves, griffins, centaurs, satyrs and gremlins – this is the ultimate reference book on creatures from the magical world.Organized from A to Z for easy reference, the cross–cultural focus spans from the most ancient of creatures to those which have come to prominence more recent ly. Discover everything from obscure magical beings to everyday animals that carry magical symbolism.Find out more in The Fantastic World of Magical Creatures.","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57466567426421,"sku":"9780007298945","price":18.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9780007298945.jpg?v=1785654625"},{"product_id":"the-grail-tarot","title":"The Grail Tarot","description":"The Grail legend is one of the most famous mysteries the world has ever known. This 78-card Tarot deck with spectacular Renaissance-style art relates to the quest for this sacred Christian relic and connects it to our desire to understand the puzzles within our own lives.  Characters drawn from over 2,000 years of fascinating Grail historyincluding the enigmatic Knights Templar, one of the most influential groups of the Middle Agestake their place in the Major Arcana. The suits are represented by the four Grail Hallows: Stone, Sword, Lance, and Vessel. Discover the symbolism and stories of the Grail as a universal and potent representation of the search for truth, and find how to connect them with your own spiritual quest.","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57481530540405,"sku":"9780764358920","price":31.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9780764358920.jpg?v=1786089798"},{"product_id":"the-byzantine-tarot","title":"The Byzantine Tarot","description":"The first deck of its kind to explore long-misunderstood aspects of this rich world, \u003cem\u003eThe Byzantine Tarot \u003c\/em\u003euncovers  new layers of wisdom and meaning to thrill Tarot users the world over  and guide us in our lives today. Drawing upon the rich heritage of art,  lore, and the complex courtly world of the Byzantine Empire, this  glittering new Tarot reflects the extraordinary artistic style that  flourished under the rule of the Byzantine emperors. Featuring a  dazzling array of images depicting emperors and empresses, court  officials, saints, and sinners, the deck faithfully echoes the  iconography of the Byzantine world, drawing the reader in with its  mysterious resonance.\u003cbr\u003eCard dimensions: 3\" x 5 1\/4\"","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57481539518837,"sku":"9780764360411","price":31.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9780764360411.jpg?v=1786089808"},{"product_id":"fools-new-journey-tarot","title":"The Fool's New Journey Tarot","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eDiscover a completely new way of divining with Tarot that’s connected to the past but points to the future\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e  \u003cbr\u003e  As the world continuously changes, Tarot, too, must change, and the Fool must begin a new journey. The advent of psychology, magical viewpoints, and recent worldwide societal upheaval led scholar John Matthews to create a new deck that brings Tarot into the present. \u003cbr\u003e  \u003cem\u003e\u003cbr\u003e  The Fool’s New Journey \u003c\/em\u003eis a 60-card deck and guidebook set, representing recognizable aspects of the human condition without losing the deeper resonance of the traditional 78-card deck. Illustrated art created by Charles Newington strives to be simpler, more direct, and more personal, in order to better speak to modern issues. It's a deck that strips away the ancient symbology, brings the Tarot back to zero, and then takes it to places it has never been before, through new dimensions and by new roads.\u003cbr\u003e  \u003cbr\u003e  Card dimensions: 2 3\/4\" x 4\"","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57481594863989,"sku":"9780764367687","price":31.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9780764367687.jpg?v=1786089872"},{"product_id":"the-sword-in-the-stone","title":"The Sword in the Stone","description":"\u003cp\u003eMost people know the story of the Sword in the Stone, in which King Arthur pulled a sword from a stone and thus proved his right to rule England. Many also know about the Twelve Knights of his Round Table. It has long been assumed that the story of these companions comes from a similar tale about Charlemagne’s Twelve Companions, in turn inherited from Jesus and his Twelve Disciples. But what if there is a much earlier origin for both the Sword in the Stone and the Twelve Knights, one rooted in astronomy and first emerging in the Cradle of Civilisation?\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn \u003cem\u003eThe Sword in the Stone\u003c\/em\u003e, John Matthews and Linda A. Malcor put forward the convincing theory that this story began to form 4,000 years ago in the cultures of Mesopotamia and Babylon, first appearing explicitly in the culture of the Hittites, and then repeated itself down through the centuries across cultures as distant as Japan and North America. The authors here bring all the strands together to explain how we arrived at Arthur.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eReflecting our timeless relationship with the stars, \u003cem\u003eThe Sword in the Stone\u003c\/em\u003e will forever change your perception of that famous tale.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57483397300597,"sku":"9781398128514","price":22.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781398128514.jpg?v=1786178545"},{"product_id":"the-spirit-of-nature-oracle","title":"The Spirit of Nature Oracle","description":"The Green Man is an ancient and popular icon of the natural world – the very spirit of nature. Here, in this remarkable pack, his tree wisdom and the Celtic Ogam tree alphabet combine to bring you an oracle of immense power.   The beautifully illustrated deck of 25 cards depicts each of the trees that make up this ancient Celtic alphabet. The Green Man is present in every image – sometimes obvious, sometimes hidden – inviting you to enter his world. You will discover tree lore, myths and symbolism, and you will learn the innermost meaning of each card, and how this age-old knowledge can guide you in your life today.","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57487870132597,"sku":"9781800691193","price":26.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781800691193.jpg?v=1786355092"},{"product_id":"blackburn-to-hellifield","title":"Blackburn to Hellifield","description":null,"brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57490333532533,"sku":"9781908174956","price":20.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781908174956.jpg?v=1786442221"},{"product_id":"taliesin-1","title":"Taliesin","description":"Taliesin, Chief Bard of Britain and Celtic shaman, was a historical figure who lived in Wales during the latter half of the sixth century. Encoded within his work are the ancestral beliefs of the Celtic and pre-Celtic peoples. In addition, his verse is established as a direct precursor to the Arthurian Legends--and Taliesin himself, shaman and shapeshifter, is said to be the direct forebear to Merlin. Though the bard's work is steeped in the rich traditions of druidic practice, few have explored the revelations of his writings--the secret poetic language of the bards, revelatory information about divination, the ancient mysteries of the Druids, and the cosmological rites that were central to Celtic worship. John Matthews, one of today's preeminent Celtic scholars, sheds new light on the poems of Taliesin and on the vast body of allusion, story, and myth that grew from his body of work and shamanic practice. With the help of fellow Celtic scholar Caitlin Matthews, the author presents completely new translations of Taliesin's major poems in their entirety, uncovering the meanings behind these great works for the first time.","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57507907338613,"sku":"9780892818693","price":17.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9780892818693.jpg?v=1787043053"},{"product_id":"a-history-of-brush-traction-locomotives","title":"A History of Brush Traction Locomotives","description":"Looking back at a rich and varied history that spans over 160 years, this book takes the reader on a journey exploring the locomotives built by Brush Traction and its numerous incarnations since 1865\\. In the very early days a diverse selection of vehicles were turned out including carriages, wagons, tramcars and even automobiles before production was concentrated on locomotives. We look closely at the important developments and locos produced, starting out from a small back street concern and going on to become a huge world famous manufacturing company. The UK is fortunate to still witness some of the iconic locomotives built by Brush, while further afield their engines continue working hard in many foreign lands including Hong Kong and New Zealand. A very large number of images were sifted through before the final selection of over 200 black and white and colour photos were chosen to capture the amazing variety of motive power from over the decades. In separate chapters, steam, diesel and electrics feature along with detailed introductions and captions that give the reader a real insight into the long list of locos that passed through the gates of the Loughborough Works. Early steam engines, one-off prototypes, famous diesel classes and state of the art electrics all come together to make up the amazing history of Brush Traction locomotives.","brand":"Gardners","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57536447021429,"sku":"9781036130831","price":29.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0612\/7193\/3106\/files\/9781036130831.jpg?v=1788186224"}],"url":"https:\/\/backstory.london\/collections\/author-john-matthews.oembed","provider":"Backstory","version":"1.0","type":"link"}