Daphne du Maurier (1907-89) is the author of Rebecca, Jamaica Inn, Frenchman’s Creek, Don’t Look Now and The Birds among many others which continue to thrill and fascinate readers worldwide. The daughter of Sir Gerald du Maurier, the leading actor manager of his day, she grew up in a wildly imaginative ‘Peter Pan’ world peopled by London’s leading writers and actors, before arriving in Cornwall at the age of 19. The place and its people inspired her to write her first novel The Loving Spirit, a work which so affected a young major in the Grenadier Guards, later Lieutenant-General Sir Frederick Browning, that he travelled to Fowey in his boat Ygdrasil to meet – and eventually to marry – the author.

This bewitching evocation of place was to remain a feature of Daphne du Maurier’s writing, and the source of much of her enduring popularity. Hilary Macaskill explores the homes and landscapes of Daphne du Maurier’s life, and how these relate to her work in sometimes unexpected ways. Generously illustrated with little-seen material from the family archive as well as new colour photographs, this is a book which will enrich and transport anyone who has ever lost themselves between the covers of a Daphne du Maurier novel.

Wisden 2013 – the 150th edition – contains coverage of every first-class game in every cricket nation, and reports and scorecards for all Tests and ODIs. Including the eagerly awaited Notes by the Editor, the Cricketers of the Year awards, and some of the finest sports writing of the year – such as the brilliant obituaries – together with trenchant opinion, compelling features and comprehensive records, Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack truly is a “must-have” for every cricket fan. A perennial bestseller in the UK.

“There can’t really be any doubt about the cricket book of the year, any year: it’s obviously Wisden”. Andrew Baker in the Daily Telegraph

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or an experienced Prommer, plan your summer through the 2013 BBC Proms season with the official Proms Guide. It contains: brand-new articles on featured composers, insights on performers, new music and Proms Plus events; introduction to the season from Roger Wright, Director of the BBC Proms and Controller of BBC Radio 3; full listings for every concert and event; repertoire, performers, time, location, ticket and broadcast information; and, details on how to book tickets. With beautiful photographs and images throughout, this official Proms Guide is the most comprehensive way to plan your summer’s Proms visiting, watching and listening.

The BBC Proms is the world’s biggest and longest-running classical music festival and features many of the greatest artists and orchestras from the UK and around the world in over 80 concerts at the Royal Albert Hall and Cadogan Hall. There are also daily free Proms Plus talks, workshops, performances and family events.

From its humble origins over a century ago to its present day glory, the Tour de France has always been a race that has inspired fascination. The exploits of the riders – Tommy Simpson’s death of the slopes of Mont Ventoux, Lance Armstrong’s controversial career and Bradley Wiggins’ historic win – continue to enthral audiences worldwide. With unequalled access to the race’s archives and a chronological approach building to the present day, this beautifully illustrated book commemorates the 100th race in style.

The rivalries, passion and drama of the world’s greatest cycling challenge are revealed through entertaining and authoritative commentary and breathtaking official photography. Featuring unique 2012 race content, including Bradley Wiggins’ 2012 victory; route maps; profiles of key riders and a section dedicated to the vital statistics of every race, Tour de France is the definitive, up-to-date account of this historic event.

This takes the form of Tom’s battered homework diary – crammed with his doodles and stories. “Exciting News! Mr Fullerman announces that class 5F are going on an ‘Activity Break’! Which should be fun. As long as I don’t ge stuck in a group with anyone who snores or worse still with …Marcus Meldrew.

Delia is already threatening to paint my room funny colours while I’m away. Which is annoying. I just hope the only surprise I have when I get home is the new pet that I hear Mum and Dad talking about.

Because I’ve always wanted a pet!”