Stanfords staff reveal what they’ll be buying for friends and family – and treating themselves to – this Christmas.
Intelliglobe – Talking Globe
Paul: “My little brother is beginning to show an interest in geography, so I think he’ll really like the Intelliglobe with its bright colours, raised relief and the fact it’s interactive. He’ll especially love the wireless pen and the world facts it brings to life.”
> Learn more about the Intelliglobe!
Bird Bingo
David: “My mum’s really into bird watching and anything to do with it, so this is the obvious gift candidate. Bird bingo is beautifully made with great attention to detail and stunning illustrations, plus it represents excellent value for money. Most importantly though, it looks really good fun!”
> Discover more about Bird Bingo!
Eau good! Charcoal Filter Water Bottle
Tim H: “This is perfect for my sister because it’s quirky and stylish – a bit like her! Because she’s a big fan of Japanese culture, I’m sure she’ll like the traditional Japanese method the filter water bottle is based on. It purifies tap water so it will also appeal to her environmental ethic.”
> Find out more about the Eau Good! Charcoal Filter Water Bottle!
London’s Overthrow by China Miéville
Tim C: “I’ll be buying this book for myself. It portrays grit, anger and disaffection in London after the 2011 riots and public sector strike. As a Londoner I think it will be an interesting read!”
> Learn more about London’s Overthrow!
Tired of London, Tired of Life by Tom Jones
Tim C: “I’ve bought this book for a good friend – the perfect source of inspiration to keep them entertained in January and prevent the post-Christmas blues! Tom Jones has really uncovered how much there is going on in London, a place where it can sometimes be difficult working out where to start.”
> Discover more about Tired of London, Tired of Life!
Patrick Leigh Fermor, An Adventure by Artemis Cooper
Paul H: “My uncle asked me to get him this book for Christmas. It’s a fantastic account of an incredibly colourful lifetime – an inspiring read!”
> Find out more about Patrick Leigh Fermor, An Adventure!
Londoners by Craig Taylor
Paul H: “This book is the perfect gift for friends of mine who love London. It’s a great read featuring people from all walks of life – I think about 80 people are featured in all – telling their tales of the capital. I really enjoyed it, so I hope they will too!”
A History of the World in Twelve Maps by Jerry Brotton
Stephen: “I’m giving this book to a friend for Christmas. A fascinating read for anyone who is into history, maps and geography.”
> Discover more about A History of the World in Twelve Maps!
Jerusalem by Yotam Ottolenghi & Sami Tamimi
Jenny: “My sister loves to cook, so this beautiful book with fantastic pictures will suit her down to the ground. I’ve seen the authors on TV and really like their enthusiasm, passion and talent. With a bit of luck my sister will learn a few tips and tricks and treat me to dinner in the new year!”
> Find out more about Jerusalem!
Bradshaw’s Continental Railway Guide: Facsimile of the 1913 Edition
Julio: “My partner follows Michael Portillo’s Bradshaw Guide-inspired TV series because he’s hugely into trains and history. The book is almost an institution itself, and this reproduction of the 1913 version is beautifully made – the perfect elegant gift, and hopefully an excuse for us to get out and explore the best of Britain.”
> Learn more about Bradshaw’s Handbook!
A Smart Guide to Utopia
Claudia: “I love this book; it’s so understated. I’m buying it for a friend who likes getting involved in social and environmental projects. This book will be a great source of ideas and inspiration, and a great gift idea for anybody who lives in a city and wants to make it better.”
> Discover more about A Smart Guide to Utopia!
Toddler Animal Daysack Clown Fish
Roisin: “I think the animal travel backpacks make a fantastic gift Christmas for kids – practical yet great fun too. I’m planning on getting the clown fish one for my friend’s daughter as she’s a huge Nemo fan – she’ll love it!”
> Find out more about the Toddler Animal Daysack Clown Fish!
World Map Hip Flask
Charlie: “My dad’s going to love this, being the discerning gentleman he likes to think he his. And now that his kids have all grown up and he’s started a bit of globe trotting, the world map theme will probably fuel his wanderlust. He’s a bit of a walker too, so the flask’s contents may help warm him up during the inevitable family walk on Christmas Day.”
> Learn more about the World Map Hip Flask!
Foot of Chocolate Ruler
Paul J: “I think the Foot of Chocolate Ruler makes a great gift. It’s a bit quirky and fun – the perfect stocking filler for anyone who loves chocolate.”