Make challenging topics highly readable

The Very Short Introduction series was launched in 1995 with Classics by Mary Beard, and now represents a wide variety of topics in history, politics, faith, philosophy, science, current affairs, business, economics, arts and culture. The series now consists of over 700 titles.

These vibrant and accessible books can change the way you think about the things that interest you, and are the perfect introduction to subjects you previously knew nothing about. From a lucid explanation of the essential issues in Islam to a lively insight into the complex theory of Post-structuralism, and a non-technical assessment of the very matter that makes up the universe in Cosmology, Very Short Introductions make often challenging topics highly readable combining authoritative analysis, new ideas, and enthusiasm. Thus, they have proven to be extremely popular with general readers, as well as undergraduate students and their lecturers.

The series is phenomenally successful and, enjoying worldwide critical acclaim, has grown to become the favourite general introduction series for the intelligent reader. Over 10 million copies have been sold worldwide and the series has been published in 53 languages.

Bestsellers--based on the sales in Japan from June 1st – December 31st, 2022.