TV’s family tree

THIS book is a handy pocket guide which gives you practical tips and hints to tracing your family tree. Written in a clear and accessible style, accompanied by photographs and official documents, it covers the most important features of genealogical research. Using stories from celebrities (Jason Donovan, Patsy Kensit, and Billy Connolly, to name but a few) who have appeared in the television show of the same name, we learn how births, marriages, and deaths, census records, military documents, and immigration archives can help the budding researcher begin their quest to uncover the secrets of their family history. This hardback book is the perfect gift for those at the beginning stages of tracing their family tree, or simply those who are fans of the television programme which is celebrating its tenth series.

Psy-Q by Ben Ambridge (Profile Books £12.99, ebook £7.59) 3/5 stars

THIS debut from the senior psychology lecturer offers a playful insight into the world of the human mind by serving up some of the most famous psychological tests, including classics such as the Rorschach’s ink blots and Freud’s dream interpretations. Packed with engaging games, puzzles and illusions, the aim of the book is to allow the reader to find out more about their psychological intelligence and their state of mind.

With a laid-back and informal writing style, clearly not aimed at the academic, Ambridge appeals to the layman curious about what makes them tick. Once finished with, it makes for great fun to turn psychologist and test friends and family and watch them sweat while you raise a brow uncomfortably.

Overall, an excitingly teasing book that has you questioning your answers before you turn the page for the reveals, which ultimately tell you you’re a sex-crazed daydreamer.

Richmond by Rhyme by GCM Stott, 3/5 stars 

ANYONE who loves Richmond will warm to this poetic tribute to a town that is so rich in history, legend and character.

This local lad has a genuine feeling for his home town which is reflected in poems such as Knitting, Potter Thompson and Alan Reed, which reflect different aspects of Richmond’s past.

Illustrated with the author’s own lines and having a hand-drawn, fold-out map, this is a handy, pocketsized book with a big heart.

The book costs £5 and is currently available in Richmond at Castle Hill Bookshop, the Richmondshire Museum, Richmond Tourist Information, Millgate House and Gardens, Lost and Found at Richmond Station, Westend Stores at the top of Reeth Road and Oxfam.

It is also available at Foxglove Covert Nature Reserve, Catterick Garrison.