This landmark book will excite readers of all ages about the extraordinary scientific breakthroughs made by New Zealand scientists. The pieces, mainly first-person accounts by the scientists themselves, range from early naturalists' observations of birds, insects and botany to physicists' brilliant discoveries on atoms and DNA, to the very recent discoveries of extra-solar planets. You'll even learn how to cook paua, and trace your ancestry to Eve.
If you think science is too hard, think again. This book is brilliantly accessible, and many of the pieces read like detective stories.

'I could not put down this wonderful collection of writings by remarkable people, many heroes and several geniuses. Read. Enjoy. Learn.'
PROFESSOR GERRY GILMORE, Institute of Astronomy, Cambridge University

In 2007, journalist Steve Braunias embarked on a series of 27 interviews, one a week, profiling New Zealanders famous and infamous, both publicity-seekers and those rather keener to hide from the spotlight. The startling survey of the national psyche stirred controversy, hilarity, and even animosity.

'Braunias proves that he is our best newspaper feature writer'
Warwick Roger, North & South

'A funny, touching and smart little package, well worth the asking price. Recommended'
Sam Finnemore, Craccum

This brilliant personal finance guide will change forever the way you think about money. Financial planner Liz Koh reveals that each of us has hidden attitudes that strongly influence our ability to create wealth. Uncover your true money per-
sonality and move into a new chapter in your life.

'Over my business lifetime I've read hundreds of books on motivation, business procedure, financial success etc. I wish I'd had access to your book first. It would have saved me a decade of searching.' A personal endorsement from Alastair, who attended one of Liz Koh's recent money seminars.

'An insightful read that will help you become smarter with money and invest better'
ROB STOCK, The Sunday Star-Times

Click here to watch Paul Henry interview Liz Koh on TV1's Breakfast Show

A young man arrives to teach English in Japan under the JET programme, but what has he got himself into? We absolutely guarantee you will love this warm, funny, wonderful story of adventure, education, home appliances and how not to choose a girlfriend.

'Hamish Beaton's spirited sense of humour, self-deprecating eye and easy writing style make this book a terrific read'
MARINA SKINNER, The Dominion Post

'Highly entertaining and often hilarious - this is travel writing at its best'
GRAEME LAY, author of The Miss Tutti Frutti Contest

After eight years in France, New Zealand professional John Daniell daringly and humorously lifts the lid on ruthless officials, fraught players, desperate strategies and illegal tactics - as well as food, friendship and weird team-building practices.

'You may have to delve behind the more prominently positioned rugby books to find this one, but it will reward you long after the clamour surrounding the others has drifted away on the wind. A great insight into real rugby'
Observer (UK)

'A real eye-opener - anyone who wants to know what the real French professional game is like should start here'
ANTON OLIVER, All Black

'French culture and rugby get a rucking in this well-written, humorous, poignant account of the sweet and bitter life of the professional player'
SPIRO ZAVOS, theroar.com.au

Watch John Daniell's interview with John Campbell here.

SHORTLISTED FOR MONTANA BOOK AWARD 2008

On 8 June 2004, the planet Venus moved across the face of the sun. This historic event - visible from most parts of the world - was rare: the last transit of Venus had happened 121 years before.

In this superb book, acclaimed scientists and historians write captivatingly of the amazing history of the quest to observe successive Transits of Venus, starting in the 18th century, and the role of these expeditions in expanding the 'known world', and revealing the astonishing seafaring abilities of Polynesian peoples.