Why the force that keeps our feet on the ground holds the key to understanding time and the origin of the universe

From the No. 1 bestselling author of What If? - the man who created xkcd and explained the laws of science with cartoons - comes a series of brilliantly simple diagrams ('blueprints' if you want to be complicated about it) that show how important things work: from the nuclear bomb to the biro.

Essential reading in the time of coronavirus: the international bestseller that will make you realise things are better than you thought

From acclaimed tech writer Clive Thompson, a brilliant and immersive study of one the most powerful tribes in the world today, computer programmers – where they come from, how they think, what makes for greatness in their world, and what should give us pause.

A powerful guide to public speaking, based on scientific analysis of hundreds of TED presentations and interviews with TED speakers. With a new introduction from the author.

The ability to think entrepreneurially has become essential today. This new, unique and engaging textbook guides all students in their learning and application of an entrepreneurial mindset to ensure that they are ready to generate ideas, solve problems and contribute towards a better world.

A small book with great weight and urgency to it, this is both a history of democracy and a clarion call for change.

"Without drastic adjustment, this system cannot last much longer," writes Van Reybrouck, regarded today as one of Europe's most astute thinkers. "If you look at the decline in voter turnout and party membership, and at the way politicians are held in contempt, if you look at how difficult it is to form governments, how little they can do and how harshly they are punish...

Difficult Conversations takes you through the basics of: Crafting a clear message Identifying the other person's goals Developing and maintaining a positive mind-set Conducting a productive conversation