Sociology should be interesting. After all, it's about people! THE EMERGENCE OF SOCIOLOGICAL THEORY is just that: interesting. Inside, you'll discover the major theories of why groups of people act the way they do, and how you can use those theories in your daily life. It's easy to understand and packed with study tools, making THE EMERGENCE OF SOCIOLOGICAL THEORY the best of its kind on the market and the one that will help you get the grade you need.
Recommended reading by Notre Dame Prof. Christian Smith.
I'm reading this to get a head-start on my PhD program in Sociology. It seems to be a good introduction for someone who has not studied the history of sociology or much sociological theory.
It surveys the thought of 5 or so prominent and early sociologists and begins the coverage with a biographical sketch of the theorist, which provides very useful context.