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The jobs we've lost are windows into the past
Gladiators fought for glory. Ice harvesters chopped up lakes. In the USA, human computers, called rocket women, calculated the paths of the spaceships with pen and paper.
All these jobs really existed. Now they are gone. This is a book of extraordinary periods in history on six continents. It spans the centuries of the professional fartists and the walking toilets, of the brave riders of the Pony Express, and the lazy ornamental hermits. Marvel at Germany's feared coffee detectives and London's dreaded executioners.
The stories behind: Mandarins, Wailing women, Body snatchers, Executioners, Whipping boys, Explorers, Walking toilets, Object swallowers, Fartists, Powder monkeys, Armpit-hair pluckers and many more...
Silver Medal winner of the California Eureka! Nonfiction Children's Book Award 2023
Nominated for the Children's Literature Association of Utah Beehive Awards 2025
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Sourcing: All books are brand new and unread, from publishers and UK book wholesalers.
Free 30-day returns on UK orders. If a book arrives damaged, faulty or not as described, we'll refund or replace it free of charge — you usually won't need to send it back. Changed your mind? Contact us within 30 days of delivery. International orders also have 30 days: damaged or faulty books are refunded or replaced free; if you change your mind, the return postage is yours. Read our refund policy.
In-stock orders are dispatched within 1 working day (Monday–Friday), and UK delivery usually takes 2–4 working days after dispatch. For Express International delivery to 21 more countries, see our Shipping Policy.
Yes. Seen the same new book (same ISBN and format) cheaper at a UK retailer? Email support@foxandfable.com before you buy and we'll send you a code to match their price. Delivery charges aren't included. See our Price Match Guarantee for eligible retailers.
Standard UK delivery is £2.99, and free on orders over £35. We also offer Express International delivery to 21 more countries — see our Shipping Policy for rates.
Yes. All of our books are brand new and unread, from publishers and UK book wholesalers.