Paul Strathern has lectured in philosophy and mathematics and now lives and writes in London. A Somerset Maugham prize winner, he is also the author of books on history and travel as well as five novels. His articles have appeared in a great many publications including the Observer (London) and the Irish Times. His own degree in philosophy was earned at Trinity College, Dublin.

'Well-written, clear and informed, they have a breezy wit about them ...I find them hard to stop reading.' New York Times 'Witty, illuminating, and blessedly concise' Wall Street Journal 'Each of these little books is witty and dramatic and creates a sense of time, place, and character ... I cannot think of a better way to introduce oneself and one's friends to Western civilization.' Boston Globe 'A godsend in this era of the short attention span.' New York Times