Forests have been entwined with human development and cultural history for centuries. In this Very Short Introduction Jaboury Ghazoul explores their origins, dynamics, and the range of goods and services they provide to human society, as well as looking at issues of deforestation, reforestation, and the effects of climate change.

Nelson Mandela's book Conversations With Myself is an unprecedented and official portrait of one of the great leaders of our time, with a foreword by President Barack Obama

The most authoritative and up-to-date introduction to Monet on the market, written by a world authority on Impressionism and 19th-century French art.

A classic monograph in the World of Art series, offering a a detailed insight into Rembrandt's life and work.

Rembrandt is among the few Old Master artists to retain universal appeal among art lovers today, his striking self-portraits lauded the world over - yet he remains an elusive, enigmatic figure.

Here, the distinguished art historian Christopher White carefully considers the known facts to build a sensitive and thorough account of the artist's life and work. He de...

Debunking what were accepted truths about the Second World War, the author argues provocatively that Hitler did not set out to cause the war as part of an evil master plan, but blundered into it partly by accident, aided by the shortcomings of others.

A selection of 'greatest hits' essays from the bestselling non-fiction writer. From criminology to ketchup, job interviews to dog training, Gladwell takes everyday subjects and shows us surprising new ways of looking at them, and the world around us. 'Gladwell is the best kind of writer - the kind who makes you feel like you're a genius rather than that he's a genius' Times

Shows how the small city of Salem is stirred into madness by superstition, paranoia and malice, culminating in a violent climax, is a savage attack on the evils of mindless persecution and the terrifying power of false accusations. This is a depiction of innocent men and women destroyed by malicious rumour, and more.

The renowned work by the English political philosopher examines the structure of society and legitimate government, arguing for a social contract and rule by an absolute sovereign.