Books published by Reaktion Books

Reveals how the ancient Maya have been perceived, portrayed and exploited over 500 years.

A gripping, provocative account of doping in sport.

A new account of innovative French poet, novelist, essayist and film writer Blaise Cendrars.

An original and comprehensive history of swimming.

An engaging and accessible biography of Sigmund Freud.

Eminent historian Robert Bartlett takes a fresh, cogent look at how our view of medieval history has been shaped by eight significant films of the twentieth century.

A magisterial illustrated history of Afghanistan, now available in paperback.

A sleazy, neon- and grease-stuffed chronicle of London's 1972 music scene.

A new biography of the Italian Renaissance painter, poet and actor Salvator Rosa.

A concise yet comprehensive survey of one of classical music's most popular composers.

A biography of the flamboyant and unapologetically avant-garde Mina Loy.

A comprehensive investigation of lying in everyday life.

The rich story of the lighthouse in the human imagination.

Christina Riggs introduces the history, art, and religion of ancient Egypt - as well as the influence they have had through the centuries.

The global history of coconut from its origin to its recent elevation to 'super-food' status.

A new account of the Inca, who in their heyday were at the pinnacle of South American civilization.

The action-packed life of the polymath and 'First American', Benjamin Franklin.

A new account of the late-fourteenth-century mystic and pilgrim Margery Kempe.

A timely, cogent exploration of how COVID-19 has caused predudice and xenophobia.