I was looking for an introductory book about anthropology, and found this one very helpful. It gives a good overview across the breadth of the subject, with easy-to-read chapters that deal with the various different areas.

The first part focuses on the history of anthropology and its key concepts, but I really found the second part more interesting. The five key areas of reciprocity, kinship, nature, thought, and identification are very practical with lots of examples. To me, those show how much anthropology has changed since the days of observers watching "primitive tribes" and how I can not only use some of the ideas to learn more about myself and the society I live in, but also about others.

An excellent read for beginners and anyone who is curious and would like to know a little more than the basics found in a short explanation.
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