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Conspiracy

The Most Thrilling Collusion Theories (and Are They True?)

information

Published
2025
Number of pages
196 pages
ISBN
9789493374171
Age
11+
Available as
hardcover

Why are we we publishing this book?

The days of unquestioning trust in science are over – whether we like it or not. Through social media, even children and young people are exposed to sweeping theories about what’s ‘really’ behind things. This book is exciting – yes, because it includes aliens, wars, and secret elites – but it’s also a plea for clear thinking and seeing the bigger picture. In that way, it equips the reader. Conspiracy is truly a book for our time.

All over the world, conspiracy theories are thriving. Is the Earth round or flat after all? Who says UFOs don’t exist? Is there an evil elite secretly controlling us? And that moon landing—did it really happen? Jan Paul Schutten explores the nine most widespread conspiracy theories. He lays out the evidence that supports them and the counter-evidence that refutes them. Moreover, he explains how the theories work, what lines of reasoning are used, and what role science plays in all of it.

The master of Dutch non-fiction for young readers – winner of two Golden Griffel Awards (the highest children’s book award in The Netherlands) – approaches the belief in conspiracies with an open mind. In his clear and cheerful style, he provides a concise yet comprehensive overview and encourages readers to think for themselves. Flemish graphic novel artist Koen Aelterman contributes exciting, full-page illustrations to bring the material to life.

  • Sample translation available

Press:

‘With his thoughtful, questioning approach, Schutten unravels and debunks several famous and infamous conspiracy theories.’
‘But the clever design and full-page, cartoon-style black-and-white illustrations by Flemish illustrator Koen Aelterman also add flair to Conspiracy.’
‘It's also commendable that Schutten never dismisses conspiracy theorists as fools.’
Conspiracy is a book that badly needed to be written.'
-       NRC

‘Non-fiction master Jan Paul Schutten at his most laid-back in the beautifully designed Conspiracy.’
‘We should be thankful that someone who so creatively debunks conspiracies isn’t the one inventing them!’
-       De Volkskrant 

Conspiracy is an interesting but, above all, important book.’
-       Trouw