Psychology is a subject that’s fascinating to many. Not only does it help us understand ourselves better, but it helps us understand others too. If you’re an A-level Psychology student, you’ll know how important it is to keep up with the latest research and theories in the field. Therefore, reading books is a great way to enhance your knowledge and improve your grades. In this blog post, we’ve curated a list of three books that every A-level Psychology student should read.
Reaching Down the Rabbit Hole by Allan Ropper
Having made the shortlist for the 2016 BMA Medical Book Awards, 'Reaching Down the Rabbit Hole' gives an incredible insight into the world of neurology from one of the world's leading names in this field, Dr Allan Ropper. The book explores the situations staff face on the renowned neurology unit at Harvard Medical School, in a way that The Financial Times describes as being a "breezy style through a series of real-life case studies."
If you're looking at pursuing a career in neurology or similar field, Dr Ropper's memoir is certainly worth reading as it presents true accounts of the theories presented at A-level.
The Little Book of Psychology by Emily Ralls
Published in 2019, this short but insightful book introduces you to many of the names you will soon become familiar with on an A-level Psychology course. It also presents an insight into some of the early ideas and theories within psychology which have shaped the world we know now, including a look at some of the more controversial ones.
With a 4.5-star rating on Amazon, The Little Book of Psychology provides an important overview of some of the prominent theorists within psychology, which ultimately help you to get off to a strong start when you begin your studies.
Pioneers of Psychology by Raymond Fancher and Alexandra Rutherford
Now in its fifth edition, Pioneers of Psychology explores major theories of psychology and the people behind them, using real-life stories and profiles to put theory into context. Amongst the reviews on Amazon are readers who have found this book "useful" and "interesting", with one even going as far as saying that it "made my exam which was supposed to be hard easy".
This book is not afraid to delve into the more controversial aspects of psychology's history, making it all the more an intriguing read.