"Sociology is not just a career or a discipline but a vocation and way of thinking, and Sociologists' Tales conveys this movingly at a time of increasing university neoliberalism." British Journal of Sociology “A fascinating and wide ranging collection, the book weaves a rich tapestry of narratives which together tell the story of a very British sociological imagination.” Claire Alexander, Professor of Sociology, University of Manchester “Immensely beneficial for students studying sociology at A-level and for teachers attempting to enthuse their students to maintain a passion for the discipline.” Jayne Kumi, Head of Social Science, Norbury Manor Business and Enterprise College, UK ??“These excellent reflections on sociologists’ lives tell an often inspiring, sometimes sobering tale. A must read for novices and seasoned scholars alike.” Kathy Charmaz, Sonoma State University, USA? “A remarkable book joining together the guilty pleasure of the higher gossip with genuinely powerful self-reflection
bluntly, hard to put down.” John Hall, Professor of Comparative Historical Sociology, McGill University, Canada “Thirty-three British sociologists reflect on what they consider the purpose of their discipline, how they became personally involved in that discipline, and what advice they would give to students contemplating a career in the field.” Y. R. Magrass, University of Massachusetts Dartmouth "The authors are brilliant writers able to captivate the reader." - Sosiologia-Journal “A richly textured collection of reflections that provides a useful reminder of the potential for sociologists to contribute to a better understanding of our societies in these troubled times.” Professor John Solomos, Department of Sociology, University of Warwick "What a delicious, down-to-earth collection of essays, offering exciting adventures in, through and beyond sociology. They show how, deep-down, everyone is a sociologist but what a privilege it is to do sociology for a living." Michael Burawoy, University of California, Berkeley “A valuable collection for anyone interested in sociology – as a subject to study at school or university, as a field of research, or as a way of life.” John David Horne, Professor of Sport and Sociology, University of Central Lancashire "While focusing on British sociology – and sociologists – this inspiring book takes stock of international debate on the discipline and its future. A brilliant celebration of sociology. Highly recommended." Carmen Leccardi, University of Milano-Bicocca, Italy