Excellent book, 27 Sep 2008
I took this book on holiday with me and I feel a week by the pool is a perfect way to enjoy this book.

I really enjoyed the pace of this work. I felt it gave just the right amount of detail without dwelling on unimportant facts.

For me it was constantly enthralling. As a 23 year-old I certainly learnt a great deal. The detail is far greater than the BBC series that accompanied the book. My only doubt is whether had I lived through the times discussed I would have found it a little lightweight.

History at its best, 26 Sep 2008
I found this book a real pleasure to read. It is a penetrating and scholarly account of Britain's post-war history. It is brilliantly researched and beautifully written - the author has a good eye for the amusing bon mot - yet it deals in a balanced and sensible way with the key developments and personalities of the post-war era. If a better book has been published in the past year, then I have not come across it.

A future school textbook - and useful now., 29 Aug 2008
This book was updated for its paperback release and having read it carefully I suspect that many of the errors referred to by other reviewers were removed at that point. Having lived out of Britain for a sizeable chunk of my adult life, I found that I had much to learn from the pages - several large gaps in my knowledge were filled in.

I found it difficult to detect any signs of bias, and Andrew Marr's easy writing style made it a pleasure to read. This is almost as far removed from the dry history textbook that I wrestled with as a young student as it is possible to be. For anyone wanting a crash course on British modern history, this could not be bettered. Well researched and referenced, this deserves to become a standard.

I learnt all I should have at school, 26 Aug 2008
If I hadn't been taught some trendy (in the 1970's) History O Level course I may have learned some modern history and have subsequently been on catch up since!

This is the most readable book I have read covering the post war period and having seen the TV programme the writers voice is audible. It's a must read for a holiday (preferably with understanding people who don't want to talk very much as being interrupted reading won't go down too well)

A Superficial History of Modern Britain. , 12 Aug 2008
Andrew Marr's book is, if not a totally one-way glass facade, then certainly a pretty smeared window upon society that is clearly influenced by the naive, PC stupidity of those many refer to as the 'chattering classes'. Shallow and childlike. The professional intelligentsia, and their private armchair and public media imitators, will surely love it.

Excellent book, 27 Sep 2008
I took this book on holiday with me and I feel a week by the pool is a perfect way to enjoy this book.

I really enjoyed the pace of this work. I felt it gave just the right amount of detail without dwelling on unimportant facts.

For me it was constantly enthralling. As a 23 year-old I certainly learnt a great deal. The detail is far greater than the BBC series that accompanied the book. My only doubt is whether had I lived through the times discussed I would have found it a little lightweight.

History at its best, 26 Sep 2008
I found this book a real pleasure to read. It is a penetrating and scholarly account of Britain's post-war history. It is brilliantly researched and beautifully written - the author has a good eye for the amusing bon mot - yet it deals in a balanced and sensible way with the key developments and personalities of the post-war era. If a better book has been published in the past year, then I have not come across it.

A future school textbook - and useful now., 29 Aug 2008
This book was updated for its paperback release and having read it carefully I suspect that many of the errors referred to by other reviewers were removed at that point. Having lived out of Britain for a sizeable chunk of my adult life, I found that I had much to learn from the pages - several large gaps in my knowledge were filled in.

I found it difficult to detect any signs of bias, and Andrew Marr's easy writing style made it a pleasure to read. This is almost as far removed from the dry history textbook that I wrestled with as a young student as it is possible to be. For anyone wanting a crash course on British modern history, this could not be bettered. Well researched and referenced, this deserves to become a standard.

I learnt all I should have at school, 26 Aug 2008
If I hadn't been taught some trendy (in the 1970's) History O Level course I may have learned some modern history and have subsequently been on catch up since!

This is the most readable book I have read covering the post war period and having seen the TV programme the writers voice is audible. It's a must read for a holiday (preferably with understanding people who don't want to talk very much as being interrupted reading won't go down too well)

A Superficial History of Modern Britain. , 12 Aug 2008
Andrew Marr's book is, if not a totally one-way glass facade, then certainly a pretty smeared window upon society that is clearly influenced by the naive, PC stupidity of those many refer to as the 'chattering classes'. Shallow and childlike. The professional intelligentsia, and their private armchair and public media imitators, will surely love it.

Brings the Tudors to life, 11 Oct 2008
After watching the TV series the Tudors. I was interested in finding out more about the real events. This book is fantastic I couldn't put it down and will be buying more books by Alison Weir.

Excellent, 12 Aug 2008
An extremely readable book. The author gives a wonderfully real picture of the wives and the King and why the various relationships ultimately ended. History comes alive in this book and I can't pay a higher compliment than that.

very enlightning very hard to put down, 18 Jul 2008
I was very impressed by this book, after reading 'The other Boleyn girl' my appetite for reading up on my history was wettened. This book is a real eye opener for how England used to be and what the people of court were required to do in their day to day lives and what they grew to fear. It shows us what an insecure man Henry was and how the people who he surrounded himself with influenced and manipulated him turning him from a man who was seemingly nice to a feared man, however it shows us that even then he was much loved by most. It explores how Henry could be ruthless in pursuing what he wanted and in a cruel way but then he was easily distracted and if things did not please him he was quick to and with no conscience to rid himself of the things that stood in his way with no back glance. It shows us how Henrys wives modelled the king and what each of them offered him. A true insight to years lived long ago.

Informative & intriguing, 28 Apr 2008
I must admit I didn't know it would be a biography-style book when I bought it, but it also had aspects of a story in it which made it a good read.

I liked the way the book progressed from one wife to another and particularly liked the way the book was divided into parts and chapters which seemed to produce a sound organisation and clear, easy navigation of the book not only as a fictional read but also as a reference book.

Alison Weir is clearly a very dedicated historian writer. Facts and fiction carefully fused together and arguments sorted out (paintings and portrait descriptions were argued very well). I liked the way she sometimes brings the 21st century into her writing, explaining for example, what remains today of the palaces and houses of Henry VIII and the burial sites of the monarchs. Very interesting stuff.

All in all, i enjoyed reading it although in future may stick to Alison's fiction.

An Absolute Joy to Read, 21 Sep 2007

Alison Weir has written many non fiction books on the British monarchy. Her research is always meticulous and her books are written in such a way that they can be read with enjoyment by anyone. By that I mean they are not written in the same way that historical text books were written when I attended school. They are written in a way that not only provides accurate information on the subject but also to give pleasure to the reader. I enjoyed the book enormously.

Henry VIII was one of the most intelligent and also most difficult of men. A fine athlete in his youth, a scholar and at times the most likeable of men. But as his life progressed he became more and more unpredictable and could turn on people at the drop of a hat, sometimes with fatal consequences.

For any woman to be married to such a complex character must have been a daunting experience. Probably tantamount to walking on egg shells. When the man they are married to is also the King of England there position would be virtually untenable and in a number of his marriages this proved to be the case. However the marriage started out, it soon became apparent that no woman could keep Henry happy for long.

Excellent book, 27 Sep 2008
I took this book on holiday with me and I feel a week by the pool is a perfect way to enjoy this book.

I really enjoyed the pace of this work. I felt it gave just the right amount of detail without dwelling on unimportant facts.

For me it was constantly enthralling. As a 23 year-old I certainly learnt a great deal. The detail is far greater than the BBC series that accompanied the book. My only doubt is whether had I lived through the times discussed I would have found it a little lightweight.

History at its best, 26 Sep 2008
I found this book a real pleasure to read. It is a penetrating and scholarly account of Britain's post-war history. It is brilliantly researched and beautifully written - the author has a good eye for the amusing bon mot - yet it deals in a balanced and sensible way with the key developments and personalities of the post-war era. If a better book has been published in the past year, then I have not come across it.

A future school textbook - and useful now., 29 Aug 2008
This book was updated for its paperback release and having read it carefully I suspect that many of the errors referred to by other reviewers were removed at that point. Having lived out of Britain for a sizeable chunk of my adult life, I found that I had much to learn from the pages - several large gaps in my knowledge were filled in.

I found it difficult to detect any signs of bias, and Andrew Marr's easy writing style made it a pleasure to read. This is almost as far removed from the dry history textbook that I wrestled with as a young student as it is possible to be. For anyone wanting a crash course on British modern history, this could not be bettered. Well researched and referenced, this deserves to become a standard.

I learnt all I should have at school, 26 Aug 2008
If I hadn't been taught some trendy (in the 1970's) History O Level course I may have learned some modern history and have subsequently been on catch up since!

This is the most readable book I have read covering the post war period and having seen the TV programme the writers voice is audible. It's a must read for a holiday (preferably with understanding people who don't want to talk very much as being interrupted reading won't go down too well)

A Superficial History of Modern Britain. , 12 Aug 2008
Andrew Marr's book is, if not a totally one-way glass facade, then certainly a pretty smeared window upon society that is clearly influenced by the naive, PC stupidity of those many refer to as the 'chattering classes'. Shallow and childlike. The professional intelligentsia, and their private armchair and public media imitators, will surely love it.

Brings the Tudors to life, 11 Oct 2008
After watching the TV series the Tudors. I was interested in finding out more about the real events. This book is fantastic I couldn't put it down and will be buying more books by Alison Weir.

Excellent, 12 Aug 2008
An extremely readable book. The author gives a wonderfully real picture of the wives and the King and why the various relationships ultimately ended. History comes alive in this book and I can't pay a higher compliment than that.

very enlightning very hard to put down, 18 Jul 2008
I was very impressed by this book, after reading 'The other Boleyn girl' my appetite for reading up on my history was wettened. This book is a real eye opener for how England used to be and what the people of court were required to do in their day to day lives and what they grew to fear. It shows us what an insecure man Henry was and how the people who he surrounded himself with influenced and manipulated him turning him from a man who was seemingly nice to a feared man, however it shows us that even then he was much loved by most. It explores how Henry could be ruthless in pursuing what he wanted and in a cruel way but then he was easily distracted and if things did not please him he was quick to and with no conscience to rid himself of the things that stood in his way with no back glance. It shows us how Henrys wives modelled the king and what each of them offered him. A true insight to years lived long ago.

Informative & intriguing, 28 Apr 2008
I must admit I didn't know it would be a biography-style book when I bought it, but it also had aspects of a story in it which made it a good read.

I liked the way the book progressed from one wife to another and particularly liked the way the book was divided into parts and chapters which seemed to produce a sound organisation and clear, easy navigation of the book not only as a fictional read but also as a reference book.

Alison Weir is clearly a very dedicated historian writer. Facts and fiction carefully fused together and arguments sorted out (paintings and portrait descriptions were argued very well). I liked the way she sometimes brings the 21st century into her writing, explaining for example, what remains today of the palaces and houses of Henry VIII and the burial sites of the monarchs. Very interesting stuff.

All in all, i enjoyed reading it although in future may stick to Alison's fiction.

An Absolute Joy to Read, 21 Sep 2007

Alison Weir has written many non fiction books on the British monarchy. Her research is always meticulous and her books are written in such a way that they can be read with enjoyment by anyone. By that I mean they are not written in the same way that historical text books were written when I attended school. They are written in a way that not only provides accurate information on the subject but also to give pleasure to the reader. I enjoyed the book enormously.

Henry VIII was one of the most intelligent and also most difficult of men. A fine athlete in his youth, a scholar and at times the most likeable of men. But as his life progressed he became more and more unpredictable and could turn on people at the drop of a hat, sometimes with fatal consequences.

For any woman to be married to such a complex character must have been a daunting experience. Probably tantamount to walking on egg shells. When the man they are married to is also the King of England there position would be virtually untenable and in a number of his marriages this proved to be the case. However the marriage started out, it soon became apparent that no woman could keep Henry happy for long.

A TRUE ICONOCLAST, 01 Oct 2008
This is the most absurd book of history I have ever read. Wilson is ruthlessly judgemental, sloppy with his dates, casual in his disdain for the niceties of 'proper' history, and his book is brilliant.

In his lucid, digressive style, Wilson delineates an alternately hilarious and devastating analysis of the major events - political, cultural, religious - in British life over the last sixty years. It induced in me convulsions of sadness, laughter, and anger, and I only wish other historians had the temerity - not to mention the learning - to deliver a book of this standard.

Excellent book, 27 Sep 2008
I took this book on holiday with me and I feel a week by the pool is a perfect way to enjoy this book.

I really enjoyed the pace of this work. I felt it gave just the right amount of detail without dwelling on unimportant facts.

For me it was constantly enthralling. As a 23 year-old I certainly learnt a great deal. The detail is far greater than the BBC series that accompanied the book. My only doubt is whether had I lived through the times discussed I would have found it a little lightweight.

History at its best, 26 Sep 2008
I found this book a real pleasure to read. It is a penetrating and scholarly account of Britain's post-war history. It is brilliantly researched and beautifully written - the author has a good eye for the amusing bon mot - yet it deals in a balanced and sensible way with the key developments and personalities of the post-war era. If a better book has been published in the past year, then I have not come across it.

A future school textbook - and useful now., 29 Aug 2008
This book was updated for its paperback release and having read it carefully I suspect that many of the errors referred to by other reviewers were removed at that point. Having lived out of Britain for a sizeable chunk of my adult life, I found that I had much to learn from the pages - several large gaps in my knowledge were filled in.

I found it difficult to detect any signs of bias, and Andrew Marr's easy writing style made it a pleasure to read. This is almost as far removed from the dry history textbook that I wrestled with as a young student as it is possible to be. For anyone wanting a crash course on British modern history, this could not be bettered. Well researched and referenced, this deserves to become a standard.

I learnt all I should have at school, 26 Aug 2008
If I hadn't been taught some trendy (in the 1970's) History O Level course I may have learned some modern history and have subsequently been on catch up since!

This is the most readable book I have read covering the post war period and having seen the TV programme the writers voice is audible. It's a must read for a holiday (preferably with understanding people who don't want to talk very much as being interrupted reading won't go down too well)

A Superficial History of Modern Britain. , 12 Aug 2008
Andrew Marr's book is, if not a totally one-way glass facade, then certainly a pretty smeared window upon society that is clearly influenced by the naive, PC stupidity of those many refer to as the 'chattering classes'. Shallow and childlike. The professional intelligentsia, and their private armchair and public media imitators, will surely love it.

Brings the Tudors to life, 11 Oct 2008
After watching the TV series the Tudors. I was interested in finding out more about the real events. This book is fantastic I couldn't put it down and will be buying more books by Alison Weir.

Excellent, 12 Aug 2008
An extremely readable book. The author gives a wonderfully real picture of the wives and the King and why the various relationships ultimately ended. History comes alive in this book and I can't pay a higher compliment than that.

very enlightning very hard to put down, 18 Jul 2008
I was very impressed by this book, after reading 'The other Boleyn girl' my appetite for reading up on my history was wettened. This book is a real eye opener for how England used to be and what the people of court were required to do in their day to day lives and what they grew to fear. It shows us what an insecure man Henry was and how the people who he surrounded himself with influenced and manipulated him turning him from a man who was seemingly nice to a feared man, however it shows us that even then he was much loved by most. It explores how Henry could be ruthless in pursuing what he wanted and in a cruel way but then he was easily distracted and if things did not please him he was quick to and with no conscience to rid himself of the things that stood in his way with no back glance. It shows us how Henrys wives modelled the king and what each of them offered him. A true insight to years lived long ago.

Informative & intriguing, 28 Apr 2008
I must admit I didn't know it would be a biography-style book when I bought it, but it also had aspects of a story in it which made it a good read.

I liked the way the book progressed from one wife to another and particularly liked the way the book was divided into parts and chapters which seemed to produce a sound organisation and clear, easy navigation of the book not only as a fictional read but also as a reference book.

Alison Weir is clearly a very dedicated historian writer. Facts and fiction carefully fused together and arguments sorted out (paintings and portrait descriptions were argued very well). I liked the way she sometimes brings the 21st century into her writing, explaining for example, what remains today of the palaces and houses of Henry VIII and the burial sites of the monarchs. Very interesting stuff.

All in all, i enjoyed reading it although in future may stick to Alison's fiction.

An Absolute Joy to Read, 21 Sep 2007

Alison Weir has written many non fiction books on the British monarchy. Her research is always meticulous and her books are written in such a way that they can be read with enjoyment by anyone. By that I mean they are not written in the same way that historical text books were written when I attended school. They are written in a way that not only provides accurate information on the subject but also to give pleasure to the reader. I enjoyed the book enormously.

Henry VIII was one of the most intelligent and also most difficult of men. A fine athlete in his youth, a scholar and at times the most likeable of men. But as his life progressed he became more and more unpredictable and could turn on people at the drop of a hat, sometimes with fatal consequences.

For any woman to be married to such a complex character must have been a daunting experience. Probably tantamount to walking on egg shells. When the man they are married to is also the King of England there position would be virtually untenable and in a number of his marriages this proved to be the case. However the marriage started out, it soon became apparent that no woman could keep Henry happy for long.

A TRUE ICONOCLAST, 01 Oct 2008
This is the most absurd book of history I have ever read. Wilson is ruthlessly judgemental, sloppy with his dates, casual in his disdain for the niceties of 'proper' history, and his book is brilliant.

In his lucid, digressive style, Wilson delineates an alternately hilarious and devastating analysis of the major events - political, cultural, religious - in British life over the last sixty years. It induced in me convulsions of sadness, laughter, and anger, and I only wish other historians had the temerity - not to mention the learning - to deliver a book of this standard.



A must have!, 21 Jul 2007
If your an archaeologist or a student of archaeology then dont go anywhere without your copy, trust me you wont regret it!

Excellent, 21 Jun 2007
Cannot recommend this book too highly, really superb. Unfortunately, for reasons best known to themselves, the Open University did not choose this as their set book for the 1st year of their Classics MA but chose the Kevin Greene book instead, about which the less said the better. If you are a first year archaeology student or just interested in archaeology and you have a choice please buy this book before any other on archaeology, you won't regret it.

Keep to hand, 20 May 2007
If you are considering studying archaeology or if you have a serious interest in it then this book will never leave your side. It is recommended reading by many teachers of the subject. The clear index means that you do not have to read the book from cover to cover, instead you can use the considered overview as a starting point for your further research.
I have used this book from undergrad to postgrad work, it is still my first port of call.

Excellent, 07 Mar 2007

I have been to Egypt, the first time was in 1993, and I made my mind up that I'd like to study Egyptology.

Although in my second year of studying Egyptology, during my first year this was one of my study books.

This book cover ever aspect of Theories, Methods and Practice you can think of, it's a very in-depth read, sometimes you may have to read a chapter twice for the information to sink in, (I know I did).

But I must warn you this book is pretty heavy to pick up, don't do what I did, I got hold of it the wrong way with just one hand and I sprained my wrist,(I'm NOT kidding), so mind how you pick up this heavy book up.

It makes an excellent edition to my little Egyptian library, which now stands at nearly 1000 books on this subject. :-)




Essential University Reading, 15 Apr 2005
If you are studying (or plan to study) archaeology at university, this book is a must. It gives a great overview of contemporary archaeological practice and uses excellent case studies throughout. It is basically the first book you turn to if you want to know about Anything archaeological, and will guide you to the right places to go for more in-depth coverage of subjects. It is a great book.

Excellent book, 27 Sep 2008
I took this book on holiday with me and I feel a week by the pool is a perfect way to enjoy this book.

I really enjoyed the pace of this work. I felt it gave just the right amount of detail without dwelling on unimportant facts.

For me it was constantly enthralling. As a 23 year-old I certainly learnt a great deal. The detail is far greater than the BBC series that accompanied the book. My only doubt is whether had I lived through the times discussed I would have found it a little lightweight.

History at its best, 26 Sep 2008
I found this book a real pleasure to read. It is a penetrating and scholarly account of Britain's post-war history. It is brilliantly researched and beautifully written - the author has a good eye for the amusing bon mot - yet it deals in a balanced and sensible way with the key developments and personalities of the post-war era. If a better book has been published in the past year, then I have not come across it.

A future school textbook - and useful now., 29 Aug 2008
This book was updated for its paperback release and having read it carefully I suspect that many of the errors referred to by other reviewers were removed at that point. Having lived out of Britain for a sizeable chunk of my adult life, I found that I had much to learn from the pages - several large gaps in my knowledge were filled in.

I found it difficult to detect any signs of bias, and Andrew Marr's easy writing style made it a pleasure to read. This is almost as far removed from the dry history textbook that I wrestled with as a young student as it is possible to be. For anyone wanting a crash course on British modern history, this could not be bettered. Well researched and referenced, this deserves to become a standard.

I learnt all I should have at school, 26 Aug 2008
If I hadn't been taught some trendy (in the 1970's) History O Level course I may have learned some modern history and have subsequently been on catch up since!

This is the most readable book I have read covering the post war period and having seen the TV programme the writers voice is audible. It's a must read for a holiday (preferably with understanding people who don't want to talk very much as being interrupted reading won't go down too well)

A Superficial History of Modern Britain. , 12 Aug 2008
Andrew Marr's book is, if not a totally one-way glass facade, then certainly a pretty smeared window upon society that is clearly influenced by the naive, PC stupidity of those many refer to as the 'chattering classes'. Shallow and childlike. The professional intelligentsia, and their private armchair and public media imitators, will surely love it.

Brings the Tudors to life, 11 Oct 2008
After watching the TV series the Tudors. I was interested in finding out more about the real events. This book is fantastic I couldn't put it down and will be buying more books by Alison Weir.

Excellent, 12 Aug 2008
An extremely readable book. The author gives a wonderfully real picture of the wives and the King and why the various relationships ultimately ended. History comes alive in this book and I can't pay a higher compliment than that.

very enlightning very hard to put down, 18 Jul 2008
I was very impressed by this book, after reading 'The other Boleyn girl' my appetite for reading up on my history was wettened. This book is a real eye opener for how England used to be and what the people of court were required to do in their day to day lives and what they grew to fear. It shows us what an insecure man Henry was and how the people who he surrounded himself with influenced and manipulated him turning him from a man who was seemingly nice to a feared man, however it shows us that even then he was much loved by most. It explores how Henry could be ruthless in pursuing what he wanted and in a cruel way but then he was easily distracted and if things did not please him he was quick to and with no conscience to rid himself of the things that stood in his way with no back glance. It shows us how Henrys wives modelled the king and what each of them offered him. A true insight to years lived long ago.

Informative & intriguing, 28 Apr 2008
I must admit I didn't know it would be a biography-style book when I bought it, but it also had aspects of a story in it which made it a good read.

I liked the way the book progressed from one wife to another and particularly liked the way the book was divided into parts and chapters which seemed to produce a sound organisation and clear, easy navigation of the book not only as a fictional read but also as a reference book.

Alison Weir is clearly a very dedicated historian writer. Facts and fiction carefully fused together and arguments sorted out (paintings and portrait descriptions were argued very well). I liked the way she sometimes brings the 21st century into her writing, explaining for example, what remains today of the palaces and houses of Henry VIII and the burial sites of the monarchs. Very interesting stuff.

All in all, i enjoyed reading it although in future may stick to Alison's fiction.

An Absolute Joy to Read, 21 Sep 2007

Alison Weir has written many non fiction books on the British monarchy. Her research is always meticulous and her books are written in such a way that they can be read with enjoyment by anyone. By that I mean they are not written in the same way that historical text books were written when I attended school. They are written in a way that not only provides accurate information on the subject but also to give pleasure to the reader. I enjoyed the book enormously.

Henry VIII was one of the most intelligent and also most difficult of men. A fine athlete in his youth, a scholar and at times the most likeable of men. But as his life progressed he became more and more unpredictable and could turn on people at the drop of a hat, sometimes with fatal consequences.

For any woman to be married to such a complex character must have been a daunting experience. Probably tantamount to walking on egg shells. When the man they are married to is also the King of England there position would be virtually untenable and in a number of his marriages this proved to be the case. However the marriage started out, it soon became apparent that no woman could keep Henry happy for long.

A TRUE ICONOCLAST, 01 Oct 2008
This is the most absurd book of history I have ever read. Wilson is ruthlessly judgemental, sloppy with his dates, casual in his disdain for the niceties of 'proper' history, and his book is brilliant.

In his lucid, digressive style, Wilson delineates an alternately hilarious and devastating analysis of the major events - political, cultural, religious - in British life over the last sixty years. It induced in me convulsions of sadness, laughter, and anger, and I only wish other historians had the temerity - not to mention the learning - to deliver a book of this standard.



A must have!, 21 Jul 2007
If your an archaeologist or a student of archaeology then dont go anywhere without your copy, trust me you wont regret it!

Excellent, 21 Jun 2007
Cannot recommend this book too highly, really superb. Unfortunately, for reasons best known to themselves, the Open University did not choose this as their set book for the 1st year of their Classics MA but chose the Kevin Greene book instead, about which the less said the better. If you are a first year archaeology student or just interested in archaeology and you have a choice please buy this book before any other on archaeology, you won't regret it.

Keep to hand, 20 May 2007
If you are considering studying archaeology or if you have a serious interest in it then this book will never leave your side. It is recommended reading by many teachers of the subject. The clear index means that you do not have to read the book from cover to cover, instead you can use the considered overview as a starting point for your further research.
I have used this book from undergrad to postgrad work, it is still my first port of call.

Excellent, 07 Mar 2007

I have been to Egypt, the first time was in 1993, and I made my mind up that I'd like to study Egyptology.

Although in my second year of studying Egyptology, during my first year this was one of my study books.

This book cover ever aspect of Theories, Methods and Practice you can think of, it's a very in-depth read, sometimes you may have to read a chapter twice for the information to sink in, (I know I did).

But I must warn you this book is pretty heavy to pick up, don't do what I did, I got hold of it the wrong way with just one hand and I sprained my wrist,(I'm NOT kidding), so mind how you pick up this heavy book up.

It makes an excellent edition to my little Egyptian library, which now stands at nearly 1000 books on this subject. :-)




Essential University Reading, 15 Apr 2005
If you are studying (or plan to study) archaeology at university, this book is a must. It gives a great overview of contemporary archaeological practice and uses excellent case studies throughout. It is basically the first book you turn to if you want to know about Anything archaeological, and will guide you to the right places to go for more in-depth coverage of subjects. It is a great book.

Absorbing. Balanced and an excellent true yarn., 29 Aug 2008
Im still reading this, It gives a considered and riveting tale of my Countrys History. Keep an open mind, fantastic achievements by towering figures, they were Empire builders and Empire spoilers, working to the values and ethics of their times. Reads like an action packed novel. Well done ancestors and well done this author.

Excellent, 05 Feb 2008
Absorbing and comprehensive account of the decline of the British Empire.
No library should be without it.

The Decline, Fall and Condemnation of the British Empire, 14 Jan 2008
Piers Brendon has certainly put an awful lot of scholarship, time and effort into this weighty, well-written, near-humourless deconstruction of a large section of British history, but unfortunately this feels like the work of a sniggering little modern mind. It has been the fashion for some time now ('political correctness' is such a boring cliche) to pull apart, criticize and pour scorn on so much of Britain's past and and so many of its heroes. Mr Brendon leaves no stone unthrown. I see the newspaper reviewers all give it the nod of approval - what a lot of sheep! His next book might well be subtitled, The Victims of the British Empire. One just wonders where the money came from to finance this acidic view of Britain's withdrawal from overstretched rule. Contrast the Empire with the Britain of today, falling apart at the seams! However, the book is certainly well worth reading for its scholarly detail, complete with resident devil.

When the eminent novelist and biographer Peter Ackroyd finished writing London: The Biography, he almost immediately had a heart attack, such was the effort of his 800-page work about the "human body" that is this most fascinating of cities. And not just any human body either, but "envisaged in the form of a young man with his arms outstretched in a gesture of liberation... it embodies the energy and exaltation of a city continually beating in great waves of progress and of confidence."

Probably there is no one better placed than Ackroyd--the author of mammoth lives of Dickens and Blake, and novels such as Hawksmoor and Dan Leno and the Lime House Golem which set singular characters against the backdrop of a city constantly shifting in time--to write such a rich, sinewy account of "Infinite London".

Ackroyd's London is no mere chronology. Its chapters take on such varied themes as drinking, sex, childhood, poverty, crime and punishment, sewage, food, pestilence and fire, immigration, maps, theatre and war. We learn that gin was "the demon of London for half a century", and that "it has been estimated that in the 1740s and 1750s there were 17,000 'gin-houses'." Fleet Street was an area known for its "violent delights" where "a 14-year-old boy, only 18 inches high, was to be seen in 1702 at a grocer's shop called the Eagle and Child by Shoe Lane." By the mid 19th century "London had become known as the greatest city on earth." By 1939 "one in five of the British population had become a Londoner."

Though London's chapters vary meaning that it can be dipped into at random, Ackroyd is employing a skilful and continuous theme throughout, which constantly links past and present--the similarities of children's games in Lambeth in 1910 and 1999; the obsession with time--"in 21st-century London time rushes forward and is everywhere apparent", while in 18th-century London the church clock of Newgate "regulated the times of hanging." Above all, he insists that the "dark secret life" of the metropolis is as relevant today as it was in perhaps its most appropriate period, Victorian London.

Again and again Ackroyd returns to the image of London as a living organism, hence his use of the word "biography" in the title. At once awed by and intimate with this "ubiquitous" city, he stresses that "it can be located nowhere in particular... its circumference is everywhere." --Catherine Taylor

Excellent book, 27 Sep 2008
I took this book on holiday with me and I feel a week by the pool is a perfect way to enjoy this book.

I really enjoyed the pace of this work. I felt it gave just the right amount of detail without dwelling on unimportant facts.

For me it was constantly enthralling. As a 23 year-old I certainly learnt a great deal. The detail is far greater than the BBC series that accompanied the book. My only doubt is whether had I lived through the times discussed I would have found it a little lightweight.

History at its best, 26 Sep 2008
I found this book a real pleasure to read. It is a penetrating and scholarly account of Britain's post-war history. It is brilliantly researched and beautifully written - the author has a good eye for the amusing bon mot - yet it deals in a balanced and sensible way with the key developments and personalities of the post-war era. If a better book has been published in the past year, then I have not come across it.

A future school textbook - and useful now., 29 Aug 2008
This book was updated for its paperback release and having read it carefully I suspect that many of the errors referred to by other reviewers were removed at that point. Having lived out of Britain for a sizeable chunk of my adult life, I found that I had much to learn from the pages - several large gaps in my knowledge were filled in.

I found it difficult to detect any signs of bias, and Andrew Marr's easy writing style made it a pleasure to read. This is almost as far removed from the dry history textbook that I wrestled with as a young student as it is possible to be. For anyone wanting a crash course on British modern history, this could not be bettered. Well researched and referenced, this deserves to become a standard.

I learnt all I should have at school, 26 Aug 2008
If I hadn't been taught some trendy (in the 1970's) History O Level course I may have learned some modern history and have subsequently been on catch up since!

This is the most readable book I have read covering the post war period and having seen the TV programme the writers voice is audible. It's a must read for a holiday (preferably with understanding people who don't want to talk very much as being interrupted reading won't go down too well)

A Superficial History of Modern Britain. , 12 Aug 2008
Andrew Marr's book is, if not a totally one-way glass facade, then certainly a pretty smeared window upon society that is clearly influenced by the naive, PC stupidity of those many refer to as the 'chattering classes'. Shallow and childlike. The professional intelligentsia, and their private armchair and public media imitators, will surely love it.

Brings the Tudors to life, 11 Oct 2008
After watching the TV series the Tudors. I was interested in finding out more about the real events. This book is fantastic I couldn't put it down and will be buying more books by Alison Weir.

Excellent, 12 Aug 2008
An extremely readable book. The author gives a wonderfully real picture of the wives and the King and why the various relationships ultimately ended. History comes alive in this book and I can't pay a higher compliment than that.

very enlightning very hard to put down, 18 Jul 2008
I was very impressed by this book, after reading 'The other Boleyn girl' my appetite for reading up on my history was wettened. This book is a real eye opener for how England used to be and what the people of court were required to do in their day to day lives and what they grew to fear. It shows us what an insecure man Henry was and how the people who he surrounded himself with influenced and manipulated him turning him from a man who was seemingly nice to a feared man, however it shows us that even then he was much loved by most. It explores how Henry could be ruthless in pursuing what he wanted and in a cruel way but then he was easily distracted and if things did not please him he was quick to and with no conscience to rid himself of the things that stood in his way with no back glance. It shows us how Henrys wives modelled the king and what each of them offered him. A true insight to years lived long ago.

Informative & intriguing, 28 Apr 2008
I must admit I didn't know it would be a biography-style book when I bought it, but it also had aspects of a story in it which made it a good read.

I liked the way the book progressed from one wife to another and particularly liked the way the book was divided into parts and chapters which seemed to produce a sound organisation and clear, easy navigation of the book not only as a fictional read but also as a reference book.

Alison Weir is clearly a very dedicated historian writer. Facts and fiction carefully fused together and arguments sorted out (paintings and portrait descriptions were argued very well). I liked the way she sometimes brings the 21st century into her writing, explaining for example, what remains today of the palaces and houses of Henry VIII and the burial sites of the monarchs. Very interesting stuff.

All in all, i enjoyed reading it although in future may stick to Alison's fiction.

An Absolute Joy to Read, 21 Sep 2007

Alison Weir has written many non fiction books on the British monarchy. Her research is always meticulous and her books are written in such a way that they can be read with enjoyment by anyone. By that I mean they are not written in the same way that historical text books were written when I attended school. They are written in a way that not only provides accurate information on the subject but also to give pleasure to the reader. I enjoyed the book enormously.

Henry VIII was one of the most intelligent and also most difficult of men. A fine athlete in his youth, a scholar and at times the most likeable of men. But as his life progressed he became more and more unpredictable and could turn on people at the drop of a hat, sometimes with fatal consequences.

For any woman to be married to such a complex character must have been a daunting experience. Probably tantamount to walking on egg shells. When the man they are married to is also the King of England there position would be virtually untenable and in a number of his marriages this proved to be the case. However the marriage started out, it soon became apparent that no woman could keep Henry happy for long.

A TRUE ICONOCLAST, 01 Oct 2008
This is the most absurd book of history I have ever read. Wilson is ruthlessly judgemental, sloppy with his dates, casual in his disdain for the niceties of 'proper' history, and his book is brilliant.

In his lucid, digressive style, Wilson delineates an alternately hilarious and devastating analysis of the major events - political, cultural, religious - in British life over the last sixty years. It induced in me convulsions of sadness, laughter, and anger, and I only wish other historians had the temerity - not to mention the learning - to deliver a book of this standard.



A must have!, 21 Jul 2007
If your an archaeologist or a student of archaeology then dont go anywhere without your copy, trust me you wont regret it!

Excellent, 21 Jun 2007
Cannot recommend this book too highly, really superb. Unfortunately, for reasons best known to themselves, the Open University did not choose this as their set book for the 1st year of their Classics MA but chose the Kevin Greene book instead, about which the less said the better. If you are a first year archaeology student or just interested in archaeology and you have a choice please buy this book before any other on archaeology, you won't regret it.

Keep to hand, 20 May 2007
If you are considering studying archaeology or if you have a serious interest in it then this book will never leave your side. It is recommended reading by many teachers of the subject. The clear index means that you do not have to read the book from cover to cover, instead you can use the considered overview as a starting point for your further research.
I have used this book from undergrad to postgrad work, it is still my first port of call.

Excellent, 07 Mar 2007

I have been to Egypt, the first time was in 1993, and I made my mind up that I'd like to study Egyptology.

Although in my second year of studying Egyptology, during my first year this was one of my study books.

This book cover ever aspect of Theories, Methods and Practice you can think of, it's a very in-depth read, sometimes you may have to read a chapter twice for the information to sink in, (I know I did).

But I must warn you this book is pretty heavy to pick up, don't do what I did, I got hold of it the wrong way with just one hand and I sprained my wrist,(I'm NOT kidding), so mind how you pick up this heavy book up.

It makes an excellent edition to my little Egyptian library, which now stands at nearly 1000 books on this subject. :-)




Essential University Reading, 15 Apr 2005
If you are studying (or plan to study) archaeology at university, this book is a must. It gives a great overview of contemporary archaeological practice and uses excellent case studies throughout. It is basically the first book you turn to if you want to know about Anything archaeological, and will guide you to the right places to go for more in-depth coverage of subjects. It is a great book.

Absorbing. Balanced and an excellent true yarn., 29 Aug 2008
Im still reading this, It gives a considered and riveting tale of my Countrys History. Keep an open mind, fantastic achievements by towering figures, they were Empire builders and Empire spoilers, working to the values and ethics of their times. Reads like an action packed novel. Well done ancestors and well done this author.

Excellent, 05 Feb 2008
Absorbing and comprehensive account of the decline of the British Empire.
No library should be without it.

The Decline, Fall and Condemnation of the British Empire, 14 Jan 2008
Piers Brendon has certainly put an awful lot of scholarship, time and effort into this weighty, well-written, near-humourless deconstruction of a large section of British history, but unfortunately this feels like the work of a sniggering little modern mind. It has been the fashion for some time now ('political correctness' is such a boring cliche) to pull apart, criticize and pour scorn on so much of Britain's past and and so many of its heroes. Mr Brendon leaves no stone unthrown. I see the newspaper reviewers all give it the nod of approval - what a lot of sheep! His next book might well be subtitled, The Victims of the British Empire. One just wonders where the money came from to finance this acidic view of Britain's withdrawal from overstretched rule. Contrast the Empire with the Britain of today, falling apart at the seams! However, the book is certainly well worth reading for its scholarly detail, complete with resident devil.

Limited history, 08 Aug 2008
Rambling, unfocused, poorly researched, and little real history. An enjoyable holiday read perhaps, but those looking to learn about the origins of this great city should look elsewhere. Most of the discussion centers on the 17th and 18th centuries and most of the anecdotes come from only two souces. The author could have taken the trouble to do a little more research! Very disappointing.

London Marathon, 13 Jan 2008
Couldn't/wouldn't get into it. Have read very little of it, and it was some time ago and I don't really remember it, so have no right to comment. Especially in the midst of such distinguished reviewers who have displayed the qualities required of anyone who completes the London Marathon.

But I will anyway. Viz:

I can relate to some reviewers' sentiments. Some, though not all.

One of those choice few I addressed as follows:

----

Talk of damning with faint praise! You seem to want to praise it like most of the other reviewers, but you let slip the fact that it doesn't really work for you until Page 772! Well, I personally can't be bothered to plough all the way through to Page 772 to get the gold! It's not as though there aren't any other books out there or other things I could be doing besides reading for that matter.

The following just sprang to mind regarding what [little] I've seen of Ackroyd's work:

[Onerous and] ponderous [portentous] tome, heavy with obsessiveness and lacking a certain leaven of lightness, charm and humour.

To my mind, anyway. Others have different minds, obviously.

Maybe I'll post this and see what happens if I dare to go against the flow!

----

Oh no! I've just posted it!

Well, I'll just have to sit back and see what happens.

'Tis all theatre, I'll tell myself as the brickbats fly. Ouch!

Sorry, sorry. I take it all back.

Ouch!

London in all its glory, 23 Dec 2007
I love London and am constantly excited about learning more about this, in my opinion, the best city in the world. This book is fascinating and if you can't get through it all in one go (it's a monster of a book) then you can dip in and out of it. I would recommend it to anyone whether or not you know the city well.

Love it or hate it..., 31 Jul 2007
Whether you love London or hate London, you have to admit that it has been a world-important city for centuries, perhaps millenia. Living in the place it is very easy to actually love and hate it at the same time. The detailed and well-researched book by Peter Ackroyd decribes the highs and lows of London from pre-history to 2000. The writer's strong and accessible style brings the city to life to the extent that one can almost hear it and smell it. Only one very minor quibble about people moving to the United States after the Great Fire - over a century before there was a United States - calling it the American Colonies would have been better. But that should not detract from Ackroyd's description of a city that was almost a country within a country for much of its history, and in some ways perhaps still is.

fascinating, 10 Apr 2007
very interesting, full of little known anecdotes about different aspects of the city and life in London through the ages. Often very funny as well..just couldnt put it down!

Excellent book, 27 Sep 2008
I took this book on holiday with me and I feel a week by the pool is a perfect way to enjoy this book.

I really enjoyed the pace of this work. I felt it gave just the right amount of detail without dwelling on unimportant facts.

For me it was constantly enthralling. As a 23 year-old I certainly learnt a great deal. The detail is far greater than the BBC series that accompanied the book. My only doubt is whether had I lived through the times discussed I would have found it a little lightweight.

History at its best, 26 Sep 2008
I found this book a real pleasure to read. It is a penetrating and scholarly account of Britain's post-war history. It is brilliantly researched and beautifully written - the author has a good eye for the amusing bon mot - yet it deals in a balanced and sensible way with the key developments and personalities of the post-war era. If a better book has been published in the past year, then I have not come across it.

A future school textbook - and useful now., 29 Aug 2008
This book was updated for its paperback release and having read it carefully I suspect that many of the errors referred to by other reviewers were removed at that point. Having lived out of Britain for a sizeable chunk of my adult life, I found that I had much to learn from the pages - several large gaps in my knowledge were filled in.

I found it difficult to detect any signs of bias, and Andrew Marr's easy writing style made it a pleasure to read. This is almost as far removed from the dry history textbook that I wrestled with as a young student as it is possible to be. For anyone wanting a crash course on British modern history, this could not be bettered. Well researched and referenced, this deserves to become a standard.

I learnt all I should have at school, 26 Aug 2008
If I hadn't been taught some trendy (in the 1970's) History O Level course I may have learned some modern history and have subsequently been on catch up since!

This is the most readable book I have read covering the post war period and having seen the TV programme the writers voice is audible. It's a must read for a holiday (preferably with understanding people who don't want to talk very much as being interrupted reading won't go down too well)

A Superficial History of Modern Britain. , 12 Aug 2008
Andrew Marr's book is, if not a totally one-way glass facade, then certainly a pretty smeared window upon society that is clearly influenced by the naive, PC stupidity of those many refer to as the 'chattering classes'. Shallow and childlike. The professional intelligentsia, and their private armchair and public media imitators, will surely love it.

Brings the Tudors to life, 11 Oct 2008
After watching the TV series the Tudors. I was interested in finding out more about the real events. This book is fantastic I couldn't put it down and will be buying more books by Alison Weir.

Excellent, 12 Aug 2008
An extremely readable book. The author gives a wonderfully real picture of the wives and the King and why the various relationships ultimately ended. History comes alive in this book and I can't pay a higher compliment than that.

very enlightning very hard to put down, 18 Jul 2008
I was very impressed by this book, after reading 'The other Boleyn girl' my appetite for reading up on my history was wettened. This book is a real eye opener for how England used to be and what the people of court were required to do in their day to day lives and what they grew to fear. It shows us what an insecure man Henry was and how the people who he surrounded himself with influenced and manipulated him turning him from a man who was seemingly nice to a feared man, however it shows us that even then he was much loved by most. It explores how Henry could be ruthless in pursuing what he wanted and in a cruel way but then he was easily distracted and if things did not please him he was quick to and with no conscience to rid himself of the things that stood in his way with no back glance. It shows us how Henrys wives modelled the king and what each of them offered him. A true insight to years lived long ago.

Informative & intriguing, 28 Apr 2008
I must admit I didn't know it would be a biography-style book when I bought it, but it also had aspects of a story in it which made it a good read.

I liked the way the book progressed from one wife to another and particularly liked the way the book was divided into parts and chapters which seemed to produce a sound organisation and clear, easy navigation of the book not only as a fictional read but also as a reference book.

Alison Weir is clearly a very dedicated historian writer. Facts and fiction carefully fused together and arguments sorted out (paintings and portrait descriptions were argued very well). I liked the way she sometimes brings the 21st century into her writing, explaining for example, what remains today of the palaces and houses of Henry VIII and the burial sites of the monarchs. Very interesting stuff.

All in all, i enjoyed reading it although in future may stick to Alison's fiction.

An Absolute Joy to Read, 21 Sep 2007

Alison Weir has written many non fiction books on the British monarchy. Her research is always meticulous and her books are written in such a way that they can be read with enjoyment by anyone. By that I mean they are not written in the same way that historical text books were written when I attended school. They are written in a way that not only provides accurate information on the subject but also to give pleasure to the reader. I enjoyed the book enormously.

Henry VIII was one of the most intelligent and also most difficult of men. A fine athlete in his youth, a scholar and at times the most likeable of men. But as his life progressed he became more and more unpredictable and could turn on people at the drop of a hat, sometimes with fatal consequences.

For any woman to be married to such a complex character must have been a daunting experience. Probably tantamount to walking on egg shells. When the man they are married to is also the King of England there position would be virtually untenable and in a number of his marriages this proved to be the case. However the marriage started out, it soon became apparent that no woman could keep Henry happy for long.

A TRUE ICONOCLAST, 01 Oct 2008
This is the most absurd book of history I have ever read. Wilson is ruthlessly judgemental, sloppy with his dates, casual in his disdain for the niceties of 'proper' history, and his book is brilliant.

In his lucid, digressive style, Wilson delineates an alternately hilarious and devastating analysis of the major events - political, cultural, religious - in British life over the last sixty years. It induced in me convulsions of sadness, laughter, and anger, and I only wish other historians had the temerity - not to mention the learning - to deliver a book of this standard.



A must have!, 21 Jul 2007
If your an archaeologist or a student of archaeology then dont go anywhere without your copy, trust me you wont regret it!

Excellent, 21 Jun 2007
Cannot recommend this book too highly, really superb. Unfortunately, for reasons best known to themselves, the Open University did not choose this as their set book for the 1st year of their Classics MA but chose the Kevin Greene book instead, about which the less said the better. If you are a first year archaeology student or just interested in archaeology and you have a choice please buy this book before any other on archaeology, you won't regret it.

Keep to hand, 20 May 2007
If you are considering studying archaeology or if you have a serious interest in it then this book will never leave your side. It is recommended reading by many teachers of the subject. The clear index means that you do not have to read the book from cover to cover, instead you can use the considered overview as a starting point for your further research.
I have used this book from undergrad to postgrad work, it is still my first port of call.

Excellent, 07 Mar 2007

I have been to Egypt, the first time was in 1993, and I made my mind up that I'd like to study Egyptology.

Although in my second year of studying Egyptology, during my first year this was one of my study books.

This book cover ever aspect of Theories, Methods and Practice you can think of, it's a very in-depth read, sometimes you may have to read a chapter twice for the information to sink in, (I know I did).

But I must warn you this book is pretty heavy to pick up, don't do what I did, I got hold of it the wrong way with just one hand and I sprained my wrist,(I'm NOT kidding), so mind how you pick up this heavy book up.

It makes an excellent edition to my little Egyptian library, which now stands at nearly 1000 books on this subject. :-)




Essential University Reading, 15 Apr 2005
If you are studying (or plan to study) archaeology at university, this book is a must. It gives a great overview of contemporary archaeological practice and uses excellent case studies throughout. It is basically the first book you turn to if you want to know about Anything archaeological, and will guide you to the right places to go for more in-depth coverage of subjects. It is a great book.

Absorbing. Balanced and an excellent true yarn., 29 Aug 2008
Im still reading this, It gives a considered and riveting tale of my Countrys History. Keep an open mind, fantastic achievements by towering figures, they were Empire builders and Empire spoilers, working to the values and ethics of their times. Reads like an action packed novel. Well done ancestors and well done this author.

Excellent, 05 Feb 2008
Absorbing and comprehensive account of the decline of the British Empire.
No library should be without it.

The Decline, Fall and Condemnation of the British Empire, 14 Jan 2008
Piers Brendon has certainly put an awful lot of scholarship, time and effort into this weighty, well-written, near-humourless deconstruction of a large section of British history, but unfortunately this feels like the work of a sniggering little modern mind. It has been the fashion for some time now ('political correctness' is such a boring cliche) to pull apart, criticize and pour scorn on so much of Britain's past and and so many of its heroes. Mr Brendon leaves no stone unthrown. I see the newspaper reviewers all give it the nod of approval - what a lot of sheep! His next book might well be subtitled, The Victims of the British Empire. One just wonders where the money came from to finance this acidic view of Britain's withdrawal from overstretched rule. Contrast the Empire with the Britain of today, falling apart at the seams! However, the book is certainly well worth reading for its scholarly detail, complete with resident devil.

Limited history, 08 Aug 2008
Rambling, unfocused, poorly researched, and little real history. An enjoyable holiday read perhaps, but those looking to learn about the origins of this great city should look elsewhere. Most of the discussion centers on the 17th and 18th centuries and most of the anecdotes come from only two souces. The author could have taken the trouble to do a little more research! Very disappointing.

London Marathon, 13 Jan 2008
Couldn't/wouldn't get into it. Have read very little of it, and it was some time ago and I don't really remember it, so have no right to comment. Especially in the midst of such distinguished reviewers who have displayed the qualities required of anyone who completes the London Marathon.

But I will anyway. Viz:

I can relate to some reviewers' sentiments. Some, though not all.

One of those choice few I addressed as follows:

----

Talk of damning with faint praise! You seem to want to praise it like most of the other reviewers, but you let slip the fact that it doesn't really work for you until Page 772! Well, I personally can't be bothered to plough all the way through to Page 772 to get the gold! It's not as though there aren't any other books out there or other things I could be doing besides reading for that matter.

The following just sprang to mind regarding what [little] I've seen of Ackroyd's work:

[Onerous and] ponderous [portentous] tome, heavy with obsessiveness and lacking a certain leaven of lightness, charm and humour.

To my mind, anyway. Others have different minds, obviously.

Maybe I'll post this and see what happens if I dare to go against the flow!

----

Oh no! I've just posted it!

Well, I'll just have to sit back and see what happens.

'Tis all theatre, I'll tell myself as the brickbats fly. Ouch!

Sorry, sorry. I take it all back.

Ouch!

London in all its glory, 23 Dec 2007
I love London and am constantly excited about learning more about this, in my opinion, the best city in the world. This book is fascinating and if you can't get through it all in one go (it's a monster of a book) then you can dip in and out of it. I would recommend it to anyone whether or not you know the city well.

Love it or hate it..., 31 Jul 2007
Whether you love London or hate London, you have to admit that it has been a world-important city for centuries, perhaps millenia. Living in the place it is very easy to actually love and hate it at the same time. The detailed and well-researched book by Peter Ackroyd decribes the highs and lows of London from pre-history to 2000. The writer's strong and accessible style brings the city to life to the extent that one can almost hear it and smell it. Only one very minor quibble about people moving to the United States after the Great Fire - over a century before there was a United States - calling it the American Colonies would have been better. But that should not detract from Ackroyd's description of a city that was almost a country within a country for much of its history, and in some ways perhaps still is.

fascinating, 10 Apr 2007
very interesting, full of little known anecdotes about different aspects of the city and life in London through the ages. Often very funny as well..just couldnt put it down!

Yorkshires Gone with the Wind, 27 Sep 2008
Stunning read. Yorkshires answer to Gone With the Wind, except its a true story. You could not make up a story like this it has enthraled everyone who has read it in our family and friends. Supprised it has never been made into a film on television series.Would outshine Brideshead Revisited.


Truth stranger than fiction, 31 Aug 2008
Absolutely gripping mixture of social history and details of life above and below stairs in the grandest of grand houses - with a dash of celebrity gossip and scandal thrown in. Written with a novelists' light touch and delightful to read.

A tragic story from a fantastic new author, 30 Jun 2008
I was lent the book by my cousin. What a fantastic story - you could almost imagine that it was fiction. Catherine Bailey has thoroughly researched this magnificent book - bringing real characters back to life. She was impartial to both the aristocrats and miners alike and gave a fascinating insight into life in South Yorkshire at the turn of the 20th century.

A marvellous, evocative read. It made me cry. It also shows how one man's revenge - Manny Shinwell - brought about the destruction of a countryside so precious and loved by so many by envy. The Fitzwilliams were "good gentry" and obviously thought highly of their workers and their responsibility. Let us hope that one day, Wentworth and its story, will be known to all and that we will be able to enjoy its wonderful house, park, fields, woods and gardens as Billy wanted.

Riveting, 29 May 2008
This was a wonderful book and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The mix of social history with personal stories worked well. The story of the lazy miner and what his wife did to make him work made me smile.
One of the most interesting books I have read in a long while. Please write another Ms Bailey!

Accessible history., 15 Apr 2008
Read this as much as a history book as a novel. Couldnt put it down - history lessons were never like this. An absolute eye opener, I learnt so much social history. I agree absolutely with the two previous reviewers.

Excellent book, 27 Sep 2008
I took this book on holiday with me and I feel a week by the pool is a perfect way to enjoy this book.

I really enjoyed the pace of this work. I felt it gave just the right amount of detail without dwelling on unimportant facts.

For me it was constantly enthralling. As a 23 year-old I certainly learnt a great deal. The detail is far greater than the BBC series that accompanied the book. My only doubt is whether had I lived through the times discussed I would have found it a little lightweight.

History at its best, 26 Sep 2008
I found this book a real pleasure to read. It is a penetrating and scholarly account of Britain's post-war history. It is brilliantly researched and beautifully written - the author has a good eye for the amusing bon mot - yet it deals in a balanced and sensible way with the key developments and personalities of the post-war era. If a better book has been published in the past year, then I have not come across it.

A future school textbook - and useful now., 29 Aug 2008
This book was updated for its paperback release and having read it carefully I suspect that many of the errors referred to by other reviewers were removed at that point. Having lived out of Britain for a sizeable chunk of my adult life, I found that I had much to learn from the pages - several large gaps in my knowledge were filled in.

I found it difficult to detect any signs of bias, and Andrew Marr's easy writing style made it a pleasure to read. This is almost as far removed from the dry history textbook that I wrestled with as a young student as it is possible to be. For anyone wanting a crash course on British modern history, this could not be bettered. Well researched and referenced, this deserves to become a standard.

I learnt all I should have at school, 26 Aug 2008
If I hadn't been taught some trendy (in the 1970's) History O Level course I may have learned some modern history and have subsequently been on catch up since!

This is the most readable book I have read covering the post war period and having seen the TV programme the writers voice is audible. It's a must read for a holiday (preferably with understanding people who don't want to talk very much as being interrupted reading won't go down too well)

A Superficial History of Modern Britain. , 12 Aug 2008
Andrew Marr's book is, if not a totally one-way glass facade, then certainly a pretty smeared window upon society that is clearly influenced by the naive, PC stupidity of those many refer to as the 'chattering classes'. Shallow and childlike. The professional intelligentsia, and their private armchair and public media imitators, will surely love it.

Brings the Tudors to life, 11 Oct 2008
After watching the TV series the Tudors. I was interested in finding out more about the real events. This book is fantastic I couldn't put it down and will be buying more books by Alison Weir.

Excellent, 12 Aug 2008
An extremely readable book. The author gives a wonderfully real picture of the wives and the King and why the various relationships ultimately ended. History comes alive in this book and I can't pay a higher compliment than that.

very enlightning very hard to put down, 18 Jul 2008
I was very impressed by this book, after reading 'The other Boleyn girl' my appetite for reading up on my history was wettened. This book is a real eye opener for how England used to be and what the people of court were required to do in their day to day lives and what they grew to fear. It shows us what an insecure man Henry was and how the people who he surrounded himself with influenced and manipulated him turning him from a man who was seemingly nice to a feared man, however it shows us that even then he was much loved by most. It explores how Henry could be ruthless in pursuing what he wanted and in a cruel way but then he was easily distracted and if things did not please him he was quick to and with no conscience to rid himself of the things that stood in his way with no back glance. It shows us how Henrys wives modelled the king and what each of them offered him. A true insight to years lived long ago.

Informative & intriguing, 28 Apr 2008
I must admit I didn't know it would be a biography-style book when I bought it, but it also had aspects of a story in it which made it a good read.

I liked the way the book progressed from one wife to another and particularly liked the way the book was divided into parts and chapters which seemed to produce a sound organisation and clear, easy navigation of the book not only as a fictional read but also as a reference book.

Alison Weir is clearly a very dedicated historian writer. Facts and fiction carefully fused together and arguments sorted out (paintings and portrait descriptions were argued very well). I liked the way she sometimes brings the 21st century into her writing, explaining for example, what remains today of the palaces and houses of Henry VIII and the burial sites of the monarchs. Very interesting stuff.

All in all, i enjoyed reading it although in future may stick to Alison's fiction.

An Absolute Joy to Read, 21 Sep 2007

Alison Weir has written many non fiction books on the British monarchy. Her research is always meticulous and her books are written in such a way that they can be read with enjoyment by anyone. By that I mean they are not written in the same way that historical text books were written when I attended school. They are written in a way that not only provides accurate information on the subject but also to give pleasure to the reader. I enjoyed the book enormously.

Henry VIII was one of the most intelligent and also most difficult of men. A fine athlete in his youth, a scholar and at times the most likeable of men. But as his life progressed he became more and more unpredictable and could turn on people at the drop of a hat, sometimes with fatal consequences.

For any woman to be married to such a complex character must have been a daunting experience. Probably tantamount to walking on egg shells. When the man they are married to is also the King of England there position would be virtually untenable and in a number of his marriages this proved to be the case. However the marriage started out, it soon became apparent that no woman could keep Henry happy for long.

A TRUE ICONOCLAST, 01 Oct 2008
This is the most absurd book of history I have ever read. Wilson is ruthlessly judgemental, sloppy with his dates, casual in his disdain for the niceties of 'proper' history, and his book is brilliant.

In his lucid, digressive style, Wilson delineates an alternately hilarious and devastating analysis of the major events - political, cultural, religious - in British life over the last sixty years. It induced in me convulsions of sadness, laughter, and anger, and I only wish other historians had the temerity - not to mention the learning - to deliver a book of this standard.



A must have!, 21 Jul 2007
If your an archaeologist or a student of archaeology then dont go anywhere without your copy, trust me you wont regret it!

Excellent, 21 Jun 2007
Cannot recommend this book too highly, really superb. Unfortunately, for reasons best known to themselves, the Open University did not choose this as their set book for the 1st year of their Classics MA but chose the Kevin Greene book instead, about which the less said the better. If you are a first year archaeology student or just interested in archaeology and you have a choice please buy this book before any other on archaeology, you won't regret it.

Keep to hand, 20 May 2007
If you are considering studying archaeology or if you have a serious interest in it then this book will never leave your side. It is recommended reading by many teachers of the subject. The clear index means that you do not have to read the book from cover to cover, instead you can use the considered overview as a starting point for your further research.
I have used this book from undergrad to postgrad work, it is still my first port of call.

Excellent, 07 Mar 2007

I have been to Egypt, the first time was in 1993, and I made my mind up that I'd like to study Egyptology.

Although in my second year of studying Egyptology, during my first year this was one of my study books.

This book cover ever aspect of Theories, Methods and Practice you can think of, it's a very in-depth read, sometimes you may have to read a chapter twice for the information to sink in, (I know I did).

But I must warn you this book is pretty heavy to pick up, don't do what I did, I got hold of it the wrong way with just one hand and I sprained my wrist,(I'm NOT kidding), so mind how you pick up this heavy book up.

It makes an excellent edition to my little Egyptian library, which now stands at nearly 1000 books on this subject. :-)




Essential University Reading, 15 Apr 2005
If you are studying (or plan to study) archaeology at university, this book is a must. It gives a great overview of contemporary archaeological practice and uses excellent case studies throughout. It is basically the first book you turn to if you want to know about Anything archaeological, and will guide you to the right places to go for more in-depth coverage of subjects. It is a great book.

Absorbing. Balanced and an excellent true yarn., 29 Aug 2008
Im still reading this, It gives a considered and riveting tale of my Countrys History. Keep an open mind, fantastic achievements by towering figures, they were Empire builders and Empire spoilers, working to the values and ethics of their times. Reads like an action packed novel. Well done ancestors and well done this author.

Excellent, 05 Feb 2008
Absorbing and comprehensive account of the decline of the British Empire.
No library should be without it.

The Decline, Fall and Condemnation of the British Empire, 14 Jan 2008
Piers Brendon has certainly put an awful lot of scholarship, time and effort into this weighty, well-written, near-humourless deconstruction of a large section of British history, but unfortunately this feels like the work of a sniggering little modern mind. It has been the fashion for some time now ('political correctness' is such a boring cliche) to pull apart, criticize and pour scorn on so much of Britain's past and and so many of its heroes. Mr Brendon leaves no stone unthrown. I see the newspaper reviewers all give it the nod of approval - what a lot of sheep! His next book might well be subtitled, The Victims of the British Empire. One just wonders where the money came from to finance this acidic view of Britain's withdrawal from overstretched rule. Contrast the Empire with the Britain of today, falling apart at the seams! However, the book is certainly well worth reading for its scholarly detail, complete with resident devil.

Limited history, 08 Aug 2008
Rambling, unfocused, poorly researched, and little real history. An enjoyable holiday read perhaps, but those looking to learn about the origins of this great city should look elsewhere. Most of the discussion centers on the 17th and 18th centuries and most of the anecdotes come from only two souces. The author could have taken the trouble to do a little more research! Very disappointing.

London Marathon, 13 Jan 2008
Couldn't/wouldn't get into it. Have read very little of it, and it was some time ago and I don't really remember it, so have no right to comment. Especially in the midst of such distinguished reviewers who have displayed the qualities required of anyone who completes the London Marathon.

But I will anyway. Viz:

I can relate to some reviewers' sentiments. Some, though not all.

One of those choice few I addressed as follows:

----

Talk of damning with faint praise! You seem to want to praise it like most of the other reviewers, but you let slip the fact that it doesn't really work for you until Page 772! Well, I personally can't be bothered to plough all the way through to Page 772 to get the gold! It's not as though there aren't any other books out there or other things I could be doing besides reading for that matter.

The following just sprang to mind regarding what [little] I've seen of Ackroyd's work:

[Onerous and] ponderous [portentous] tome, heavy with obsessiveness and lacking a certain leaven of lightness, charm and humour.

To my mind, anyway. Others have different minds, obviously.

Maybe I'll post this and see what happens if I dare to go against the flow!

----

Oh no! I've just posted it!

Well, I'll just have to sit back and see what happens.

'Tis all theatre, I'll tell myself as the brickbats fly. Ouch!

Sorry, sorry. I take it all back.

Ouch!

London in all its glory, 23 Dec 2007
I love London and am constantly excited about learning more about this, in my opinion, the best city in the world. This book is fascinating and if you can't get through it all in one go (it's a monster of a book) then you can dip in and out of it. I would recommend it to anyone whether or not you know the city well.

Love it or hate it..., 31 Jul 2007
Whether you love London or hate London, you have to admit that it has been a world-important city for centuries, perhaps millenia. Living in the place it is very easy to actually love and hate it at the same time. The detailed and well-researched book by Peter Ackroyd decribes the highs and lows of London from pre-history to 2000. The writer's strong and accessible style brings the city to life to the extent that one can almost hear it and smell it. Only one very minor quibble about people moving to the United States after the Great Fire - over a century before there was a United States - calling it the American Colonies would have been better. But that should not detract from Ackroyd's description of a city that was almost a country within a country for much of its history, and in some ways perhaps still is.

fascinating, 10 Apr 2007
very interesting, full of little known anecdotes about different aspects of the city and life in London through the ages. Often very funny as well..just couldnt put it down!

Yorkshires Gone with the Wind, 27 Sep 2008
Stunning read. Yorkshires answer to Gone With the Wind, except its a true story. You could not make up a story like this it has enthraled everyone who has read it in our family and friends. Supprised it has never been made into a film on television series.Would outshine Brideshead Revisited.


Truth stranger than fiction, 31 Aug 2008
Absolutely gripping mixture of social history and details of life above and below stairs in the grandest of grand houses - with a dash of celebrity gossip and scandal thrown in. Written with a novelists' light touch and delightful to read.

A tragic story from a fantastic new author, 30 Jun 2008
I was lent the book by my cousin. What a fantastic story - you could almost imagine that it was fiction. Catherine Bailey has thoroughly researched this magnificent book - bringing real characters back to life. She was impartial to both the aristocrats and miners alike and gave a fascinating insight into life in South Yorkshire at the turn of the 20th century.

A marvellous, evocative read. It made me cry. It also shows how one man's revenge - Manny Shinwell - brought about the destruction of a countryside so precious and loved by so many by envy. The Fitzwilliams were "good gentry" and obviously thought highly of their workers and their responsibility. Let us hope that one day, Wentworth and its story, will be known to all and that we will be able to enjoy its wonderful house, park, fields, woods and gardens as Billy wanted.

Riveting, 29 May 2008
This was a wonderful book and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The mix of social history with personal stories worked well. The story of the lazy miner and what his wife did to make him work made me smile.
One of the most interesting books I have read in a long while. Please write another Ms Bailey!

Accessible history., 15 Apr 2008
Read this as much as a history book as a novel. Couldnt put it down - history lessons were never like this. An absolute eye opener, I learnt so much social history. I agree absolutely with the two previous reviewers.

A box of delights, 11 May 2008
Chapeau! Kudos! Peter Ackroyd has done a terrific job with this book. From his early novel _Hawksmoor_, Ackroyd has evolved into the chronicler par excellence of London, both through his book of the same name and by the flavour of London life in his biographies of Shakespeare, Chaucer, Sir Thomas More, Dickens, Blake, and other works (both fictional and non).

This cornucopia has history, geography, geology, spirituality, sociology, literary and cultural referencing, psychology, life cycles, transport, trade, ecology, hedonism, commercialism. It's a staggeringly accomplished chronicle and a worthy tribute to the liquid heart of London.

Ackroyd ranges masterfully from facts and statistics - some of them fascinating - through to dreams and legends. Although London dominates, this deals with the villages and towns along the Thames - e.g., Windsor as represented by the poet Alexander Pope. The historical thread moves from the prehistoric river, and the Thames Caesar conquered, through to the modern flood protection afforded by the Thames Barrier. Notwithstanding its erudition, the flow is ceaseless and the touch light, so that it's an easy, satisfying read.

Thankfully, Ackroyd controls his trademark fascination in filth and murk aspects, balancing them judiciously with the elevated, refined and spiritual. He delightedly describes the Fleet as "merd-urinous", "wholly rank" and "the excremental centre of London's polluted life". This is tempered by the view "at twilight, a soft grey, a lacustrine light."

With its buried coins and weapons, syringes, severed heads, the river is a "depository of past lives" but Ackroyd gives us a final vision of "estuarial river" rushing to the "sea's embrace."

I can do no better than let the chapters speak for themselves:

1. "The Mirror of history": river as fact (statistics) and metaphor - the "museum of Englishness", symbolizing the national character. Time of the river: Hydrologic and geologic.
2. Father Thames - river deities, Thames Basin, birth/source aspects
3. Issuing Forth: tributaries, especially the Fleet.
4. Beginnings: Ice Ages, barrows, and henges; Caesar and Vikings.
5. The sacred river - saints and ruins: includes Norman palaces, Westminster Abbey, monasteries(work and education), plague and fire.
6.Elemental and Equal: riverine cycle/essence and social upheavals/revolutions.
7. The working river -: River boats, London Bridge and subways, river law and conservation; the criminal element (theft, witches); watermen, porters, weir keepers.
8. River of trade - wharves, mills, breweries, docks, modern decline - new financial districts e.g. Canary Wharf and Docklands.
9. The Natural River: fog, wind, rain, the Thames Barrier (flood protection). Sacred woods and trees, villages, swans and whales (!)
10. A stream of pleasure - pubs, sports, carnivals, Lord Mayor's pageant, physic gardens Contrasts with mortality, sewers, and typhus in the 18th-19th centuries.
11. The healing spring - wells, hospitals, flowers. A rhapsodic chapter....
12. The river of art - Turner, Conrad, Jerome - chroniclers (the 16th-century antiquarian John Leland), novelists (Dickens, Grahame), poets Chaucer, Spenser, Milton, Pope, Shelley, Arnold.
13. Shadows and depth - Visions of Carroll and Traherne. Local history; dreams and legends.
14. The river of death - riverine findings (coins, weapons, syringes, severed heads). Mythology. Suicides, murders, drownings.
15. The river's end - the estuarial river which "rushes to the sea's embrace."

A grand achievement. Prepare to be delighted, amazed - and moved.

Strangely compelling, 11 Feb 2008
Rather like The Thames itself, this book has a mysterious beguiling quality. It draws you in and won't let you go. Ackroyd's prose, his playful mingling of history and legend, his almost overwhelming attention to detailed research combine to make this a compelling, oddly unsettling read. I learned so much.

A book to dip in to, 09 Feb 2008
This is an interesting and eclectic look at the River Thames by the author of 'London: The Biography'. The meat of the book is a series of vignettes dealing with different aspects of the river, its people, and it's environs. Also incl