History:
* Man on Fire: The Story of Volcanoes (1981): This book explores the history of volcanoes and their impact on human civilization.
* Voyaging with the Vikings (1993): This book recounts the epic voyages of the Vikings, including their exploration of the North Atlantic and beyond.
* The Rise of the Vikings (2001): This comprehensive history examines the origins and development of Viking culture and society.
* The Great Ship: The Story of the Vikings (2017): A revised and expanded edition of "Voyaging with the Vikings".
Science and Nature:
* African Wildlife (1977): A detailed look at the diverse animal life of Africa.
* Wild Places (1982): Explores the beauty and fragility of the natural world.
* The Third World: A Guide to Its People and Problems (1984): A comprehensive overview of the challenges facing developing countries.
* The Future of Nature (1995): This book considers the impact of human activity on the environment and the future of biodiversity.
* The Nature of Things (1997): A collection of essays on natural history and the human relationship with nature.
* The World Unseen: The Extraordinary Story of the Invisible Universe (2001): A fascinating exploration of the hidden world of microscopic life and the universe beyond our sight.
Travel:
* Africa: A Portrait of a Continent (1980): A captivating exploration of Africa's diverse cultures, landscapes, and wildlife.
* The Great North Road (1986): A travelogue documenting a journey across Africa from Cairo to Cape Town.
* The Great Wall: A Journey into China's Past (1993): This book follows the author's travels along the Great Wall of China, revealing its rich history and cultural significance.
This is just a selection of John Reader's extensive body of work. He has also written several other books, including biographies, historical fiction, and essays. His writing is characterized by its engaging style, in-depth research, and insightful observations.