Pears cyclopdia, 2011-2012 - Chris Cook

Continuing to inform and intrigue generations of readers with its unique mix of solid facts and fascinating gems, Pears' Cyclopaedia offers clear and concise information on such wide-ranging subjects as global events, Norse mythology and modern cinema.

This year, in researching Pears, some of the more unexpected facts uncovered in this issue are that penguins have more feathers than any other creature, white rhinos are not in fact white, China produces more potatoes than any other country - and Sudan has more pyramids than Egypt.

Updated regularly by a panel of loyal experts, this handy edition includes new and revised sections - making Pears' Cyclopaedia the only reference book you'll ever need.

Additional material includes famous gardens, drinks from cocktails to fortified wines, current affairs from the coalition period to the global warming debate, and new phrases including 'Boris bikes' and 'screenagers'. Plus all the traditional favourites: famous people, medical matters, classical mythology, gazetteer of the British Isles, music, the world of science, sporting almanac, latest tax advice and general information.

Little wonder Pears remains Britain's favourite encyclopaedia from the world's most famous publisher.