In June, 2006, Picador launch Picador Shots, a new series of pocket-sized books priced at £1. The Shots aim to promote the short story as well as the work of some Picador's greatest authors. They will be contemporarily packaged but ultimately disposable books that are the ideal literary alternative to a magazine.

In ‘The Professor’s History’ a French historian travels to Algeria to uncover the terrible truth about his country’s actions in the region. His search leads him to a story which has lain untold but unforgotten for many years.

Claire Messud’s work has been hailed for its sweeping appeal and its sheer beauty. She explores themes of connection and isolation with unexcelled power and grace.