Cover-ups and mysteries, are they just a mix of wishful thinking and fantasy that grips the attention of millions of people: was JFK assassinated? Were the moon landings faked? Do secret societies such as the Illuminati control the world? Did Shakespeare write all of those incredible plays? Is global warming a hoax? Why did the all-powerful Mayans decline so rapidly? Is Area 51 really the site of an alien landing? All these and more are explored in this fascinating new book, a visual feast of mystery and imagination. AUTHOR: Michael Robinson is a lecturer and writer on art and design history. Originally an art dealer with his own provincial gallery in Sussex, he entered academic life by way of a career change, having gained a Masters research degree at Kingston University, where he has lectured on British and French art of the Modern period. He is also a Blue Badge tourist guide and is often to be found in galleries and museums sharing his passions with others. SELLING POINTS: . Bestselling large coffee-table format. . Digestible running text exploring eerie abandonment. . Stunning full-page photographs. . Cities, Towns and settlements from around the world. 150 illustrations