Over the last twenty years museums have proliferated, attracting new audiences and assuming new prominence in public life. The Return of Curiosity offers a fresh perspective on museums and what they may now be good for. Nicholas Thomas argues that what is special about museums are their collections, which are not just rich resources for reflection, but creative technologies that enable people to make new things in the present.Reflecting on art galleries, science and history institutions, and ...

An entertaining, alternative portrait of nudity down the ages.

Pioneering printer Johannes Gutenberg’s true story, rightful recognition and enduring legacy.

The epic tale of the House of Orange-Nassau, from 1772 to 1890.

A tune-filled, light-footed people's history of ballroom dancing.

In Tulip, Celia Fisher traces the story of this important and highly popular plant, from its mountain beginnings to its cultivation in the gardens of Mughul, Persian and Ottoman potentates, and its migration from East to West along the silk trading routes.

A beguiling history of ten pathfinding women walkers.

A beautifully history of imaginary animals from Palaeolithic art to Harry Potter.

A valuable and timely account of attention, from neuroscience to surfing.

The life and work of Katherine Mansfield, one of literary modernism’s most significant writers.