This history charts how geography rose to popularity on a tide of imperial enthusiasms in Victorian time and made its way into many elementary schools in the latter half of the 19th century. Many geography lessons were not dominated by the rote-learning of "capes and bays" and some of the pioneers of the subject led the way in the use of models, visual aids and "object lessons" in schools. The book explores Scott Keltie's report of 1886 as a catalyst for development. Despite the founding of the Geographical Association in 1893, the subject needed a series of concerted political campaigns in the early 20th centry to establish itself in the secondary sector. The growth of the regional approach, field-work and of sample studies expanded the subject between the world wars, before a major conceptual revolution invigorated and challenged teachers of the subject in the post-war period.

The one-act play stands apart as a distinct art form with some well known writers providing specialist material, among them Bernard Shaw, Tom Stoppard, Harold Pinter, Caryl Churchill. Alan Ayckbourn, Edward Albee and Tennesee Williams. There are also lesser-known writers with plenty of material to offer, yet sourcing one-act plays to perform is notoriously hard.

This companion is the first book to survey the work of over 250 playwrights in an illuminating A-Z guide. Multiple styles, nationalities and periods are covered, offering a treasure trove of compelling moments of theatre waiting to be discovered. Guidance on performing and staging one-act plays is also covered as well as essential contact information and where to apply for performance rights. A chapter introducing the history of the one-act play rounds off the title as a definitive guide.