Prisoners of Geography by Tim Marshall

A richly illustrated around-the-world exploration showing how understanding geography the way Tim Marshall does unlocks a secret history of politics, commerce, international relations, and more

History is a story—and it’s impossible to tell the whole tale without understanding the place where the events unfolded. Acclaimed author Tim Marshall made a powerful case for this new way of understanding the past (and present) in his internationally bestselling book Prisoners of Geography. In this Illustrated Young Readers Edition, his fascinating insights come to life for a whole new audience in detail-packed maps and lively illustrations that explain how a nation’s destiny is written in its landscape.

How did the US become a superpower? Why do people go to war? And why are some countries wealthy while others are not? Surprising quirks of geography illuminate the answers to these questions and many more. Discover how the choices of world leaders are swayed by mountains, rivers, and seas—and why geography means that history is always repeating itself. From antiquity up to the modern day, the physical characteristics of countries and continents affect their strengths and vulnerabilities and the decisions made by their leaders.

In twelve simple maps—along with hundreds of illustrations—this stunning, fully illustrated edition explains the world, showing how the land on which we live has always shaped us. This remarkable, unique introduction to world affairs will inspire curious minds everywhere.