Encyclopedia of Play in Today's Society

This comprehensive academic work offers an expansive exploration of play across cultures and centuries, examining everything from ancient Roman dice games to contemporary video gaming culture. The encyclopedia bridges historical analysis with modern sociological perspectives, presenting play as both childhood development and adult leisure throughout human civilization. Its interdisciplinary approach incorporates viewpoints from sociology, child development, and cultural studies to create a multidimensional portrait of recreational activities. The recognition as an Outstanding Academic Title by Choice Magazine underscores the scholarly rigor and depth of research contained within this substantial reference work.

What distinguishes this collection is its serious treatment of play as a fundamental social phenomenon worthy of academic scrutiny, rather than merely documenting games and pastimes. Students and researchers in sociology, cultural studies, and recreational therapy will find particularly valuable insights into how play shapes and reflects societal values across different eras. The international scope provides comparative perspectives that reveal both universal patterns and culturally specific manifestations of recreational behavior. This work successfully elevates the study of play beyond trivial pursuit to demonstrate its critical role in human development and social interaction throughout history.