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If you’ve always wanted to know how societies function – and why sometimes they don’t – this beginner’s guide to sociology has got the essential theories and thinkers covered

Sociology has almost limitless scope. From the smallest everyday interaction to the impact of vast systemic change, societies are brimming with fascinating phenomena we all want to understand more clearly.

There’s never been a more important moment to grasp what’s going on around us, and this pocket-sized guide offers an engaging introduction to the key sociological concepts and debates. It includes easy-to-follow coverage of:

The origins and development of modern sociology and the influence of foundational figures such as Durkheim, Marx and Weber

The major sociological schools or perspectives, from functionalism to feminism

How sociologists strive to test their theories ethically and carefully by using scientific research methods

The key topics in sociology, including inequality, class, crime, gender and race

How sociology can help us tackle new challenges and change our societies – and the wider world – for the better

Perfect for newcomers, or anyone seeking a concise breakdown of the subject, The Little Book of Sociology takes all the big ideas and makes them crystal clear.

If you’re intrigued by the question “What makes us human?”, strap in for this whirlwind tour of the highlights of anthropology

From the first steps of our prehistoric ancestors, to the development of complex languages, to the intricacies of religions and cultures across the world, diverse factors have shaped the human species as we know it. Anthropology strives to untangle this fascinating web of history to work out who we were in the past, what that means for human beings today and who we might be tomorrow.

This pocket-sized introduction includes accessible primers on:
– Influential anthropologists such as Franz Boas, Margaret Mead and Ruth Benedict
– The key branches of anthropology, from physical and linguistic anthropology to archaeology
– How anthropologists study topics such as communication, identity, sex and gender, religion and culture
– How we can approach one of life’s most enduring questions: what is it that truly makes us human?

This illuminating little book will introduce you to the key thinkers, themes and theories you need to know to understand the development of human beings, and how our history has informed the way we live today. A perfect gift for anyone taking their first steps into the world of anthropology, as well as for those who want to brush up their knowledge.

Can you recall the year that the Dracula fish was discovered?


Do you know the height and location of the world’s tallest building?


Remember the company that discovered a way to convert water and CO2 into fuel?




This unique trivia compendium presents an illustrated snapshot of the world twenty years after the new millennium.


Taking stock of the most impressive achievements, terrific disasters and marvellous innovations that have changed our world, 2020 brings together top twenties of fascinating facts and figures on subjects ranging from life-saving technological advancements to freak weather phenomena, outstanding sporting achievements to unexpected political shake-ups.  


Whatever your interests, you’ll be amazed, amused, surprised and enlightened by this testament to the catastrophic lows and unbelievable highs of human endeavour.

It’s time to celebrate your inner geek with this treasure trove of lists and prime cuts of knowledge.

Time to brush up on what you’d forgotten or misremembered, and discover what you never had a clue was true. Ranging across history, science and the natural world, taking in sport, film, food and much more, Man Facts gives you a wealth of up-to-date stats and eye-opening trivia that will make you a general-knowledge genius, or at least help you nail your next pub quiz. Dig in.

Brilliant Britain is an entertaining journey through the quirks, oddities and idiosyncrasies that define our nation and preserve us from the mundane and predictable, such as:

• the royal pomp and pageantry of the State Opening of Parliament and the less well-known swan-upping;
• unusual sports and pastimes, from bog snorkelling to worm charming; 
• annual countrywide events including the May Day festivities and the beating of the bounds;
• dialects and slang, provincial foods and a recipe for the perfect chip butty.

This book lifts the lid on a rich heritage of eccentricity and diversity, exploring all that makes Britain brilliant.

Grandparents are a constant source of understanding, advice and love. This beautiful collection of quotations will make every grandparent see how much they are appreciated.

Filled with terrifying tales of ghosts and ghouls, poltergeists and other unexplained encounters, this bone-chilling compendium of paranormal phenomena is sure to haunt you long after you have turned the final page

Did you hear about the ghost who solved her own murder? What about the terrifying case of the Battersea poltergeist? Do you know the story of the killer ghost of Kentucky?

Prepare for your blood to run cold and for your heart to beat a little faster, because the disturbing tales lurking within are not for the faint-hearted. Delve into this collection to discover infamous accounts of the eerie and the unexplained – as well as lesser-known strange, contemporary happenings from across the globe – and connect to the rich tradition of paranormal stories that have captivated humankind throughout the ages.

But beware: after sampling these sinister histories, you might be too scared to close your eyes – no matter how much your body craves sleep.

It’s time to worry less and live more

We all worry – it’s completely normal. But when it starts to impact upon our mental and physical well-being it’s time to do something about it. This comforting guide will provide you with the coping strategies to navigate worry in all its guises, including anxiety, depression and stress. Learn how to shift behaviours to break the worry cycle once and for all, so you can lead a happier life with a more positive outlook.

This little book is here to send you some love. Packed with quotes to inspire you and statements full of compassion, this ink-and-paper hug will help you to keep your chin up, your chest out and to BE STRONG.

You are enough

You are brave and determined, and you can overcome any obstacle or setback that stands in your way.

Whenever you struggle with your self-belief, pick yourself up with this little book of feel-good quotes and statements that will remind you how incredibly strong you are.

An interactive workbook for parents and children from the author of the best-selling titles Don’t Worry, Be Happy: A Child’s Guide to Overcoming Anxiety and You’re a Star: A Child’s Guide to Self-Esteem

Does your child appear nervous and isolated in social settings?

Perhaps they find it difficult to approach other children or make friends?

Do they seem to avoid engaging in hobbies and activities?

These could all be signs that your child is struggling with shyness.

This practical guide combines cognitive behavioural therapy and mindfulness methods with simple activities to help your child overcome shyness. It’s aimed at children aged 7-11 because a lot happens in these years that can impact a child’s confidence, not just now but for years to come.

Your child will be guided, with the help of Jem – a friendly and supportive character they can identify with – through fun and engaging activities which are interspersed with useful tips, inspirational statements and practical information for parents.

Does your child often feel isolated and do they struggle to get involved in social situations?

Are they nervous about what people think of them, or maybe they’re just a little unsure of how they feel about themselves?

These could be signs that your child is experiencing low self-esteem.

This practical guide combines proven cognitive-behavioural therapy methods used by child psychologists in schools with simple activities to help your child grow their self-esteem. It’s aimed at children aged 7-11 because a lot happens in these years that can impact a child’s sense of self-worth, not just now but for years to come.

Your child will be guided, with the help of Bop – a friendly and supportive character they can identify with – through fun and engaging activities which are interspersed with useful tips, inspirational statements and practical information for parents.