With a decline in traditional religious belief, interest in spirituality has grown hugely in Western cultures. The notion of spirituality expresses the fact that many people are driven by goals that concern more than material satisfaction. Philip Sheldrake explores the historical foundations of spirituality and considers how it transforms lives.

Sport is one of the largest industries in the world and the global reach of major sporting events is enormous. In this Very Short Introduction, Mike Cronin explores the historical development of sport. Exploring a variety of activities from rugby and cricket to tennis, athletics, and skiing, he considers the central role it plays in modern society.

This concise and practical handbook covers the breadth of psychiatric conditions with which sportspeople may present.

The story of how Stalin ruthlessly built his 'Red Empire' in the aftermath of World War II - and what inspired him to build it.

It is 2050. When Kari's mother brings home an old woman she found wandering in the road, Kari is appalled but begins to realize there is more to Rachel than she first thought. When the police take Rachel away for questioning, Kari goes to look for her, embarking on a life-changing adventure.

Stars are a constant source of fascination. In this Very Short Introduction Andrew King introduces us to the science of stars; how they are born, how they live, and how they die. He shows how understanding the stars is the key to understanding the galaxies they inhabit, and how they provide us with clues to the existence of planets like our own.

From May Day revels and Midsummer fires, to Harvest Home, and Hallowe'en, to the twelve days of Christmas, Ronald Hutton takes us on a fascinating journey through the ritual year in Britain. This comprehensive and engaging study covers the whole sweep of history from the earliest written records to the present day.