One of the Best Books I've Ever Looked At, 16 Mar 2008
Looking at this book is so thought provoking and inpsiring. I could look at it for hours.

One of the Best Books I've Ever Looked At, 16 Mar 2008
Looking at this book is so thought provoking and inpsiring. I could look at it for hours.

A great read - James May at his best, 16 Sep 2008
James May's 20th Century really is a fantastic book, and I couldn't think of a better book to read.
It's simply staggering for anyone who likes awe-inspiring machines, like the Saturn V rocket, the Spitfire, or even Concorde.

James May, with his usual wit, digs deep into the 20th century, and covers what was so good about Saturn V, why the Lunar Rover was such a rip off, and why no-one ever said "there goes a Concorde", and how the world was severely shrunk in such a short period of time. He explains why the Reginald Mitchell's Supermarine Spitfire was such an amazing invention, and tells us, with great style and humour, why some stuff just didn't make it.

All in all, then, James May's 20th Century is a fantastic book, and makes great reading material.
A fabulous read for anyone who likes James May, likes awesome machines, and wants to dig deeper into the Five W's: who, what, where, why and when.

Strongly recommended.


One of the best books Ive read, 26 Jan 2008
James May - is a excellent man , his work inspired my work , because he is him self and write carefree almost Diary like.
James is exstreamly Intellegent , eccentric and British his work is 5 star .

Fascinating and Fun, 04 Oct 2007
What a wonderful book. Full of interesting facts and glorious photographs. Anyone who watched the programmes will be surprised to learn the book is even better, for it is more in depth and covers subjects which weren't really touched upon in the programme. James May has a beautiful way with words and makes the science and invention of the 20th Century both exciting and fascinating.

A great Christmas book - put it on your lists now.

A fascinating read, 16 Sep 2007
James May's 20th Century, published in hardback on the 6th September 2007, accompanies the fabulous TV series broadcasted on Channel 2.

The book of the TV series is ever more fascinating than the TV series itself, mainly because there's more 'pukka-arity' to it - simply meaning there's more information, and wacky facts about the 20th century.

And being James May, he doesn't describe it in any way humble, or without great lumps of humour stirred into the mixture of interest, funniness, and even some facts that you don't need, or want, to know (!)

So, in conclusion of my review for this fantastic novel (and novelist), this book is one that you can't really put down if you can help it. It comprises qualities, and quantities, which other books don't have -

More than deserves 5 Star +

One of the Best Books I've Ever Looked At, 16 Mar 2008
Looking at this book is so thought provoking and inpsiring. I could look at it for hours.

A great read - James May at his best, 16 Sep 2008
James May's 20th Century really is a fantastic book, and I couldn't think of a better book to read.
It's simply staggering for anyone who likes awe-inspiring machines, like the Saturn V rocket, the Spitfire, or even Concorde.

James May, with his usual wit, digs deep into the 20th century, and covers what was so good about Saturn V, why the Lunar Rover was such a rip off, and why no-one ever said "there goes a Concorde", and how the world was severely shrunk in such a short period of time. He explains why the Reginald Mitchell's Supermarine Spitfire was such an amazing invention, and tells us, with great style and humour, why some stuff just didn't make it.

All in all, then, James May's 20th Century is a fantastic book, and makes great reading material.
A fabulous read for anyone who likes James May, likes awesome machines, and wants to dig deeper into the Five W's: who, what, where, why and when.

Strongly recommended.


One of the best books Ive read, 26 Jan 2008
James May - is a excellent man , his work inspired my work , because he is him self and write carefree almost Diary like.
James is exstreamly Intellegent , eccentric and British his work is 5 star .

Fascinating and Fun, 04 Oct 2007
What a wonderful book. Full of interesting facts and glorious photographs. Anyone who watched the programmes will be surprised to learn the book is even better, for it is more in depth and covers subjects which weren't really touched upon in the programme. James May has a beautiful way with words and makes the science and invention of the 20th Century both exciting and fascinating.

A great Christmas book - put it on your lists now.

A fascinating read, 16 Sep 2007
James May's 20th Century, published in hardback on the 6th September 2007, accompanies the fabulous TV series broadcasted on Channel 2.

The book of the TV series is ever more fascinating than the TV series itself, mainly because there's more 'pukka-arity' to it - simply meaning there's more information, and wacky facts about the 20th century.

And being James May, he doesn't describe it in any way humble, or without great lumps of humour stirred into the mixture of interest, funniness, and even some facts that you don't need, or want, to know (!)

So, in conclusion of my review for this fantastic novel (and novelist), this book is one that you can't really put down if you can help it. It comprises qualities, and quantities, which other books don't have -

More than deserves 5 Star +




A Great book, 12 Apr 2008
I cannot reccomend this book enougth this should join all the other carpentry books your so glad you own, its really comprehensive & it hard-back this is value for money & will be a reliable companion what ever your level & skill Buy it! Charles de Greeff (France)

All essential woodworking info in one book., 10 Jan 2008
I'm strictly a "hobbyist" woodworker and I ordered this on a whim, having just bought a router in the post xmas sales, hoping to pick up some ideas for projects.
The depth of information is outstanding, with the chapters being logically ordered and all types of wood, tool and method being laid out in detail with plenty of clear diagrams and "how-to" instructions.
I picked up plenty of hints and tips on things I never even knew I was doing wrong. I've also managed to identify some of the more obscure woodworking tools I inherited from my Grandfather, and found a use for them!
Money well spent, this will keep me busy for years.

Told me everything that I wanted to know, 19 Aug 2003
Wanting to get into woodworking for pleasure (and ultimately furnishing my house) but having very little prior knowledge about the subject, I wanted a book that I could use as a reference whenever it was needed. This book fulfills the role very nicely and gives excellent guidance on the purchase of tools as well as techniques. Having read through the relevant sections, I was able to go out the next day and purchase everything I needed.

Often the most difficult thing about starting out in a new hobby is finding somebody with experience to guide you. Whilst this is usually the best way, in my case it wasn't possible and this title was about as worthy a substitute as a reference book can be.

Good, but can be sketchy, 22 Jan 2003
First - this is a really well produced book. It shows what several dozen samples of different wood types look like (both plain and varnished), and goes on to outline the basic construction principles behind chairs, tables, and cupboards. It then covers the use of hand tools and power tools.

But, and it's a big but, this is really only an overview of a vast subject. For example, it covers drafting of a plan in one single page, which really isn't enough if you're planning to build a large piece of furniture.

So while it looks lovely, bear in mind that it's best considered as a roadmap for further study and experimentation.

Very Informative, 18 Nov 2001
Excellent book. I am studying Antique Furniture Restoration at college and find that this book covers all the woodworking basics that I need to know, learn and excel at. It is well laid out, easy to follow and has step by step guides for different types of joints, timbers, tools and wood finishing. It is my bible.

One of the Best Books I've Ever Looked At, 16 Mar 2008
Looking at this book is so thought provoking and inpsiring. I could look at it for hours.

A great read - James May at his best, 16 Sep 2008
James May's 20th Century really is a fantastic book, and I couldn't think of a better book to read.
It's simply staggering for anyone who likes awe-inspiring machines, like the Saturn V rocket, the Spitfire, or even Concorde.

James May, with his usual wit, digs deep into the 20th century, and covers what was so good about Saturn V, why the Lunar Rover was such a rip off, and why no-one ever said "there goes a Concorde", and how the world was severely shrunk in such a short period of time. He explains why the Reginald Mitchell's Supermarine Spitfire was such an amazing invention, and tells us, with great style and humour, why some stuff just didn't make it.

All in all, then, James May's 20th Century is a fantastic book, and makes great reading material.
A fabulous read for anyone who likes James May, likes awesome machines, and wants to dig deeper into the Five W's: who, what, where, why and when.

Strongly recommended.


One of the best books Ive read, 26 Jan 2008
James May - is a excellent man , his work inspired my work , because he is him self and write carefree almost Diary like.
James is exstreamly Intellegent , eccentric and British his work is 5 star .

Fascinating and Fun, 04 Oct 2007
What a wonderful book. Full of interesting facts and glorious photographs. Anyone who watched the programmes will be surprised to learn the book is even better, for it is more in depth and covers subjects which weren't really touched upon in the programme. James May has a beautiful way with words and makes the science and invention of the 20th Century both exciting and fascinating.

A great Christmas book - put it on your lists now.

A fascinating read, 16 Sep 2007
James May's 20th Century, published in hardback on the 6th September 2007, accompanies the fabulous TV series broadcasted on Channel 2.

The book of the TV series is ever more fascinating than the TV series itself, mainly because there's more 'pukka-arity' to it - simply meaning there's more information, and wacky facts about the 20th century.

And being James May, he doesn't describe it in any way humble, or without great lumps of humour stirred into the mixture of interest, funniness, and even some facts that you don't need, or want, to know (!)

So, in conclusion of my review for this fantastic novel (and novelist), this book is one that you can't really put down if you can help it. It comprises qualities, and quantities, which other books don't have -

More than deserves 5 Star +




A Great book, 12 Apr 2008
I cannot reccomend this book enougth this should join all the other carpentry books your so glad you own, its really comprehensive & it hard-back this is value for money & will be a reliable companion what ever your level & skill Buy it! Charles de Greeff (France)

All essential woodworking info in one book., 10 Jan 2008
I'm strictly a "hobbyist" woodworker and I ordered this on a whim, having just bought a router in the post xmas sales, hoping to pick up some ideas for projects.
The depth of information is outstanding, with the chapters being logically ordered and all types of wood, tool and method being laid out in detail with plenty of clear diagrams and "how-to" instructions.
I picked up plenty of hints and tips on things I never even knew I was doing wrong. I've also managed to identify some of the more obscure woodworking tools I inherited from my Grandfather, and found a use for them!
Money well spent, this will keep me busy for years.

Told me everything that I wanted to know, 19 Aug 2003
Wanting to get into woodworking for pleasure (and ultimately furnishing my house) but having very little prior knowledge about the subject, I wanted a book that I could use as a reference whenever it was needed. This book fulfills the role very nicely and gives excellent guidance on the purchase of tools as well as techniques. Having read through the relevant sections, I was able to go out the next day and purchase everything I needed.

Often the most difficult thing about starting out in a new hobby is finding somebody with experience to guide you. Whilst this is usually the best way, in my case it wasn't possible and this title was about as worthy a substitute as a reference book can be.

Good, but can be sketchy, 22 Jan 2003
First - this is a really well produced book. It shows what several dozen samples of different wood types look like (both plain and varnished), and goes on to outline the basic construction principles behind chairs, tables, and cupboards. It then covers the use of hand tools and power tools.

But, and it's a big but, this is really only an overview of a vast subject. For example, it covers drafting of a plan in one single page, which really isn't enough if you're planning to build a large piece of furniture.

So while it looks lovely, bear in mind that it's best considered as a roadmap for further study and experimentation.

Very Informative, 18 Nov 2001
Excellent book. I am studying Antique Furniture Restoration at college and find that this book covers all the woodworking basics that I need to know, learn and excel at. It is well laid out, easy to follow and has step by step guides for different types of joints, timbers, tools and wood finishing. It is my bible.

just the thing for a design student, 24 Jan 2000
this book is th most comprehensive of its type and i would strongly reccommend it to anyone who needs to do any design reseach. excellent across theboard

If you're into design, this should be your design bible, 15 Dec 1998
This is a great book for learning about everything from period styles of the 20th Century to the context in which every chair in this period was designed. Short biografies of the most important designer/architects is also included. The book contains very professional photographs and is a must-have to everyone that is the slightest bit interested in design. Nothing is missing from this book.

The thorniest scientific problem of the 18th century was how to determine longitude. Many thousands of lives had been lost at sea over the centuries due to the inability to determine an east-west position. This is the engrossing story of the clockmaker, John "Longitude" Harrison, who solved the problem that Newton and Galileo had failed to conquer, yet claimed only half the promised rich reward. --Amazon.com

One of the Best Books I've Ever Looked At, 16 Mar 2008
Looking at this book is so thought provoking and inpsiring. I could look at it for hours.

A great read - James May at his best, 16 Sep 2008
James May's 20th Century really is a fantastic book, and I couldn't think of a better book to read.
It's simply staggering for anyone who likes awe-inspiring machines, like the Saturn V rocket, the Spitfire, or even Concorde.

James May, with his usual wit, digs deep into the 20th century, and covers what was so good about Saturn V, why the Lunar Rover was such a rip off, and why no-one ever said "there goes a Concorde", and how the world was severely shrunk in such a short period of time. He explains why the Reginald Mitchell's Supermarine Spitfire was such an amazing invention, and tells us, with great style and humour, why some stuff just didn't make it.

All in all, then, James May's 20th Century is a fantastic book, and makes great reading material.
A fabulous read for anyone who likes James May, likes awesome machines, and wants to dig deeper into the Five W's: who, what, where, why and when.

Strongly recommended.


One of the best books Ive read, 26 Jan 2008
James May - is a excellent man , his work inspired my work , because he is him self and write carefree almost Diary like.
James is exstreamly Intellegent , eccentric and British his work is 5 star .

Fascinating and Fun, 04 Oct 2007
What a wonderful book. Full of interesting facts and glorious photographs. Anyone who watched the programmes will be surprised to learn the book is even better, for it is more in depth and covers subjects which weren't really touched upon in the programme. James May has a beautiful way with words and makes the science and invention of the 20th Century both exciting and fascinating.

A great Christmas book - put it on your lists now.

A fascinating read, 16 Sep 2007
James May's 20th Century, published in hardback on the 6th September 2007, accompanies the fabulous TV series broadcasted on Channel 2.

The book of the TV series is ever more fascinating than the TV series itself, mainly because there's more 'pukka-arity' to it - simply meaning there's more information, and wacky facts about the 20th century.

And being James May, he doesn't describe it in any way humble, or without great lumps of humour stirred into the mixture of interest, funniness, and even some facts that you don't need, or want, to know (!)

So, in conclusion of my review for this fantastic novel (and novelist), this book is one that you can't really put down if you can help it. It comprises qualities, and quantities, which other books don't have -

More than deserves 5 Star +




A Great book, 12 Apr 2008
I cannot reccomend this book enougth this should join all the other carpentry books your so glad you own, its really comprehensive & it hard-back this is value for money & will be a reliable companion what ever your level & skill Buy it! Charles de Greeff (France)

All essential woodworking info in one book., 10 Jan 2008
I'm strictly a "hobbyist" woodworker and I ordered this on a whim, having just bought a router in the post xmas sales, hoping to pick up some ideas for projects.
The depth of information is outstanding, with the chapters being logically ordered and all types of wood, tool and method being laid out in detail with plenty of clear diagrams and "how-to" instructions.
I picked up plenty of hints and tips on things I never even knew I was doing wrong. I've also managed to identify some of the more obscure woodworking tools I inherited from my Grandfather, and found a use for them!
Money well spent, this will keep me busy for years.

Told me everything that I wanted to know, 19 Aug 2003
Wanting to get into woodworking for pleasure (and ultimately furnishing my house) but having very little prior knowledge about the subject, I wanted a book that I could use as a reference whenever it was needed. This book fulfills the role very nicely and gives excellent guidance on the purchase of tools as well as techniques. Having read through the relevant sections, I was able to go out the next day and purchase everything I needed.

Often the most difficult thing about starting out in a new hobby is finding somebody with experience to guide you. Whilst this is usually the best way, in my case it wasn't possible and this title was about as worthy a substitute as a reference book can be.

Good, but can be sketchy, 22 Jan 2003
First - this is a really well produced book. It shows what several dozen samples of different wood types look like (both plain and varnished), and goes on to outline the basic construction principles behind chairs, tables, and cupboards. It then covers the use of hand tools and power tools.

But, and it's a big but, this is really only an overview of a vast subject. For example, it covers drafting of a plan in one single page, which really isn't enough if you're planning to build a large piece of furniture.

So while it looks lovely, bear in mind that it's best considered as a roadmap for further study and experimentation.

Very Informative, 18 Nov 2001
Excellent book. I am studying Antique Furniture Restoration at college and find that this book covers all the woodworking basics that I need to know, learn and excel at. It is well laid out, easy to follow and has step by step guides for different types of joints, timbers, tools and wood finishing. It is my bible.

just the thing for a design student, 24 Jan 2000
this book is th most comprehensive of its type and i would strongly reccommend it to anyone who needs to do any design reseach. excellent across theboard

If you're into design, this should be your design bible, 15 Dec 1998
This is a great book for learning about everything from period styles of the 20th Century to the context in which every chair in this period was designed. Short biografies of the most important designer/architects is also included. The book contains very professional photographs and is a must-have to everyone that is the slightest bit interested in design. Nothing is missing from this book.

Pride and Prejudice, 26 Sep 2008
Harrison seems to have been one of those people who is his own worst enemy; too proud to be successful.
Sobel is almost as prejudiced in his favour as some of those who opposed him were prejudiced against him. So it's difficult to feel you have read this and got the true picture. It seems that the astronomical methods were more successful than she admits for most of the book.
Nevertheless this is a helpful read which puts the development of clocks into context and reminds us just how difficult it was to navigate the seas safely in the days before GPS.

Tick Tock , 27 Aug 2007
The epic story on the search for the holy grail of maritime navigation, how to calculate longitude? This is the story and the unlikely triumph of an English genius who more or less solved the age old problem of obtaining accurate longitude position fixes by the use of chronometers.

Anyone alive in the 18th century would have known that 'the longitude problem' was the thorniest scientific dilemma of the day and had been for centuries. Lacking the ability to measure their longitude, sailors throughout the great ages of exploration had been literally lost at sea as soon as they lost sight of land. Thousands of lives, and the increasing fortunes of nations, hung on a resolution. The quest for a solution had occupied scientists and their patrons for the better part of two centuries when, in 1714, Parliament upped the ante by offering a king's ransom (GBP20,000) to anyone whose method or device proved successful. It is amazing to think that some highly intelligent individuals came out with some of the most preposterous suggestions imaginable.

However in the main the intellects of the day were on the right path. Galileo, Sir Isaac Newton and most of the European scientific community had mapped the heavens in both hemispheres in their dogmatic pursuit of a celestial answer to the problem. In stark contrast, one man, John Harrison, dared to imagine a mechanical solution by using chronometers. He designs and constructs the most amazing time pieces of the era in his quest for accuracy and sets out on a series of sea trials to prove his point. This he eventually did but it took over two decades and more than a few arguments with the governments of the day.

A detailed, descriptive read full of interesting facts and features which basically is a concise historical narrative on astronomy, navigation and clock making. Without sounding like an 'anorak' I found the descriptions on clock making and testing really interesting.

A very interesting single sitting read!




Very Good, 06 Jul 2007
Longitude does not at the outset seem a very interesting idea for a book but this is a mistaken assumption. It is very well written, not overly technical plus has a pace to it which keeps the reader intrested. All in all a very good book.

We cannot 'keep' time - only record its passing, 17 Nov 2006
A well researched, beautifully written history of the race to measure longitude. I get the feeling from this book that Harrison was probably the most altruistic of all the rearchers looking for this'Holy Grail' of the sea. For me, Sobel has once again triumphed as she did in 'Galileos Daughter'.

Neither here nor there..., 25 Oct 2006
Dava Sobel writes with such clarity and passion for her subject that I found myself easily drawn into this engaging subject.

I am especially interested in the history of sea-faring navigation. Her tale reminded me of my own perilous journey to England. It was on board Segnor Torres' yacht from Club Reggato in Valencia all the way to the British Legion, Clacton-on-Sea, back in 1973.

Now, whilst James Cook had the advantage of Harrison's latest chronometers we were less well prepared. Our plan to combine a wax-coated lead fathometer with dead-reckoning to track our Eastward drift, spectacularly failed when cloudy skies persisted throughout the 17 day voyage. Hopelessly adrift around 30 degrees North-West of Portugal, my desperate suggestion to release the precious cage of Ravens and observe their behaviour met with distain.

Nevertheless I remain inspired by John Harrison's dogged persistence. Inspired by Sobel's book in supportive of the underdog, and in honour of George III, I recently undertook a visit to the Maritime Museum at Greenwich. Although the steep hill leading up to Flamstead House necessitated recruiting help with my wheelchair, we made it to the top without incident.

I was kindly carried up the narrow winding staircase to the exhibition on the first floor by two ageing Sea Cadets. I was pleased to be able to return the favour by providing them with the telephone number of the Disability Claims Helpline of the War Pensions department, c/o `HMS Liverpool'; although the ships current deployment in the Adriatic may delay things somewhat. Nevertheless, they generally respond quickly to my annual bonus winter-payment enquiries, now that I've fully mastered Morse code.

To sum up: Sobel demonstrates with aplomb how the seminal Longitude Act of 1714 was a seismic sea-change (sic) in global navigability; a precursor to our global travel industry of today. Her fictional-prose style of factual writing is thoroughly absorbing, and I commend this book to you.

FS.

One of the Best Books I've Ever Looked At, 16 Mar 2008
Looking at this book is so thought provoking and inpsiring. I could look at it for hours.

A great read - James May at his best, 16 Sep 2008
James May's 20th Century really is a fantastic book, and I couldn't think of a better book to read.
It's simply staggering for anyone who likes awe-inspiring machines, like the Saturn V rocket, the Spitfire, or even Concorde.

James May, with his usual wit, digs deep into the 20th century, and covers what was so good about Saturn V, why the Lunar Rover was such a rip off, and why no-one ever said "there goes a Concorde", and how the world was severely shrunk in such a short period of time. He explains why the Reginald Mitchell's Supermarine Spitfire was such an amazing invention, and tells us, with great style and humour, why some stuff just didn't make it.

All in all, then, James May's 20th Century is a fantastic book, and makes great reading material.
A fabulous read for anyone who likes James May, likes awesome machines, and wants to dig deeper into the Five W's: who, what, where, why and when.

Strongly recommended.


One of the best books Ive read, 26 Jan 2008
James May - is a excellent man , his work inspired my work , because he is him self and write carefree almost Diary like.
James is exstreamly Intellegent , eccentric and British his work is 5 star .

Fascinating and Fun, 04 Oct 2007
What a wonderful book. Full of interesting facts and glorious photographs. Anyone who watched the programmes will be surprised to learn the book is even better, for it is more in depth and covers subjects which weren't really touched upon in the programme. James May has a beautiful way with words and makes the science and invention of the 20th Century both exciting and fascinating.

A great Christmas book - put it on your lists now.

A fascinating read, 16 Sep 2007
James May's 20th Century, published in hardback on the 6th September 2007, accompanies the fabulous TV series broadcasted on Channel 2.

The book of the TV series is ever more fascinating than the TV series itself, mainly because there's more 'pukka-arity' to it - simply meaning there's more information, and wacky facts about the 20th century.

And being James May, he doesn't describe it in any way humble, or without great lumps of humour stirred into the mixture of interest, funniness, and even some facts that you don't need, or want, to know (!)

So, in conclusion of my review for this fantastic novel (and novelist), this book is one that you can't really put down if you can help it. It comprises qualities, and quantities, which other books don't have -

More than deserves 5 Star +




A Great book, 12 Apr 2008
I cannot reccomend this book enougth this should join all the other carpentry books your so glad you own, its really comprehensive & it hard-back this is value for money & will be a reliable companion what ever your level & skill Buy it! Charles de Greeff (France)

All essential woodworking info in one book., 10 Jan 2008
I'm strictly a "hobbyist" woodworker and I ordered this on a whim, having just bought a router in the post xmas sales, hoping to pick up some ideas for projects.
The depth of information is outstanding, with the chapters being logically ordered and all types of wood, tool and method being laid out in detail with plenty of clear diagrams and "how-to" instructions.
I picked up plenty of hints and tips on things I never even knew I was doing wrong. I've also managed to identify some of the more obscure woodworking tools I inherited from my Grandfather, and found a use for them!
Money well spent, this will keep me busy for years.

Told me everything that I wanted to know, 19 Aug 2003
Wanting to get into woodworking for pleasure (and ultimately furnishing my house) but having very little prior knowledge about the subject, I wanted a book that I could use as a reference whenever it was needed. This book fulfills the role very nicely and gives excellent guidance on the purchase of tools as well as techniques. Having read through the relevant sections, I was able to go out the next day and purchase everything I needed.

Often the most difficult thing about starting out in a new hobby is finding somebody with experience to guide you. Whilst this is usually the best way, in my case it wasn't possible and this title was about as worthy a substitute as a reference book can be.

Good, but can be sketchy, 22 Jan 2003
First - this is a really well produced book. It shows what several dozen samples of different wood types look like (both plain and varnished), and goes on to outline the basic construction principles behind chairs, tables, and cupboards. It then covers the use of hand tools and power tools.

But, and it's a big but, this is really only an overview of a vast subject. For example, it covers drafting of a plan in one single page, which really isn't enough if you're planning to build a large piece of furniture.

So while it looks lovely, bear in mind that it's best considered as a roadmap for further study and experimentation.

Very Informative, 18 Nov 2001
Excellent book. I am studying Antique Furniture Restoration at college and find that this book covers all the woodworking basics that I need to know, learn and excel at. It is well laid out, easy to follow and has step by step guides for different types of joints, timbers, tools and wood finishing. It is my bible.

just the thing for a design student, 24 Jan 2000
this book is th most comprehensive of its type and i would strongly reccommend it to anyone who needs to do any design reseach. excellent across theboard

If you're into design, this should be your design bible, 15 Dec 1998
This is a great book for learning about everything from period styles of the 20th Century to the context in which every chair in this period was designed. Short biografies of the most important designer/architects is also included. The book contains very professional photographs and is a must-have to everyone that is the slightest bit interested in design. Nothing is missing from this book.

Pride and Prejudice, 26 Sep 2008
Harrison seems to have been one of those people who is his own worst enemy; too proud to be successful.
Sobel is almost as prejudiced in his favour as some of those who opposed him were prejudiced against him. So it's difficult to feel you have read this and got the true picture. It seems that the astronomical methods were more successful than she admits for most of the book.
Nevertheless this is a helpful read which puts the development of clocks into context and reminds us just how difficult it was to navigate the seas safely in the days before GPS.

Tick Tock , 27 Aug 2007
The epic story on the search for the holy grail of maritime navigation, how to calculate longitude? This is the story and the unlikely triumph of an English genius who more or less solved the age old problem of obtaining accurate longitude position fixes by the use of chronometers.

Anyone alive in the 18th century would have known that 'the longitude problem' was the thorniest scientific dilemma of the day and had been for centuries. Lacking the ability to measure their longitude, sailors throughout the great ages of exploration had been literally lost at sea as soon as they lost sight of land. Thousands of lives, and the increasing fortunes of nations, hung on a resolution. The quest for a solution had occupied scientists and their patrons for the better part of two centuries when, in 1714, Parliament upped the ante by offering a king's ransom (GBP20,000) to anyone whose method or device proved successful. It is amazing to think that some highly intelligent individuals came out with some of the most preposterous suggestions imaginable.

However in the main the intellects of the day were on the right path. Galileo, Sir Isaac Newton and most of the European scientific community had mapped the heavens in both hemispheres in their dogmatic pursuit of a celestial answer to the problem. In stark contrast, one man, John Harrison, dared to imagine a mechanical solution by using chronometers. He designs and constructs the most amazing time pieces of the era in his quest for accuracy and sets out on a series of sea trials to prove his point. This he eventually did but it took over two decades and more than a few arguments with the governments of the day.

A detailed, descriptive read full of interesting facts and features which basically is a concise historical narrative on astronomy, navigation and clock making. Without sounding like an 'anorak' I found the descriptions on clock making and testing really interesting.

A very interesting single sitting read!




Very Good, 06 Jul 2007
Longitude does not at the outset seem a very interesting idea for a book but this is a mistaken assumption. It is very well written, not overly technical plus has a pace to it which keeps the reader intrested. All in all a very good book.

We cannot 'keep' time - only record its passing, 17 Nov 2006
A well researched, beautifully written history of the race to measure longitude. I get the feeling from this book that Harrison was probably the most altruistic of all the rearchers looking for this'Holy Grail' of the sea. For me, Sobel has once again triumphed as she did in 'Galileos Daughter'.

Neither here nor there..., 25 Oct 2006
Dava Sobel writes with such clarity and passion for her subject that I found myself easily drawn into this engaging subject.

I am especially interested in the history of sea-faring navigation. Her tale reminded me of my own perilous journey to England. It was on board Segnor Torres' yacht from Club Reggato in Valencia all the way to the British Legion, Clacton-on-Sea, back in 1973.

Now, whilst James Cook had the advantage of Harrison's latest chronometers we were less well prepared. Our plan to combine a wax-coated lead fathometer with dead-reckoning to track our Eastward drift, spectacularly failed when cloudy skies persisted throughout the 17 day voyage. Hopelessly adrift around 30 degrees North-West of Portugal, my desperate suggestion to release the precious cage of Ravens and observe their behaviour met with distain.

Nevertheless I remain inspired by John Harrison's dogged persistence. Inspired by Sobel's book in supportive of the underdog, and in honour of George III, I recently undertook a visit to the Maritime Museum at Greenwich. Although the steep hill leading up to Flamstead House necessitated recruiting help with my wheelchair, we made it to the top without incident.

I was kindly carried up the narrow winding staircase to the exhibition on the first floor by two ageing Sea Cadets. I was pleased to be able to return the favour by providing them with the telephone number of the Disability Claims Helpline of the War Pensions department, c/o `HMS Liverpool'; although the ships current deployment in the Adriatic may delay things somewhat. Nevertheless, they generally respond quickly to my annual bonus winter-payment enquiries, now that I've fully mastered Morse code.

To sum up: Sobel demonstrates with aplomb how the seminal Longitude Act of 1714 was a seismic sea-change (sic) in global navigability; a precursor to our global travel industry of today. Her fictional-prose style of factual writing is thoroughly absorbing, and I commend this book to you.

FS.


One of the best, 13 Oct 2007
This is one of the best design books I have ever found. It's everything from the history of how mice and gui's were first invented to just interesting information and interviews from the people who started it all. Still reading it, buts its very interesting and well worth it.

Good Content, 01 Sep 2007
Not only is this book exquisite, it also has remarkably good content. And then on top of that it's huge as well :) Definitely worth buying, I promise you it wont sit on your self, and has interviews with extremely relevant people. The only downside is that in 10 years or so it may be a little dated, but only because the concepts in here will have been implemented.

Packed with awesomeness, 13 Dec 2006
This is a huge book that actually lives up to its size. It's not one of those design books that kind of looks nice and then ends up on your shelf, it's actually full of great anecdotes, experiences and lessons from people who've made great (and not so great) stuff. Oh and it has a DVD of videos from those same people too. Fantastic.

If you design anything remotely interactive, from a website to a bottle-opener, you should own this.

One of the Best Books I've Ever Looked At, 16 Mar 2008
Looking at this book is so thought provoking and inpsiring. I could look at it for hours.

A great read - James May at his best, 16 Sep 2008
James May's 20th Century really is a fantastic book, and I couldn't think of a better book to read.
It's simply staggering for anyone who likes awe-inspiring machines, like the Saturn V rocket, the Spitfire, or even Concorde.

James May, with his usual wit, digs deep into the 20th century, and covers what was so good about Saturn V, why the Lunar Rover was such a rip off, and why no-one ever said "there goes a Concorde", and how the world was severely shrunk in such a short period of time. He explains why the Reginald Mitchell's Supermarine Spitfire was such an amazing invention, and tells us, with great style and humour, why some stuff just didn't make it.

All in all, then, James May's 20th Century is a fantastic book, and makes great reading material.
A fabulous read for anyone who likes James May, likes awesome machines, and wants to dig deeper into the Five W's: who, what, where, why and when.

Strongly recommended.


One of the best books Ive read, 26 Jan 2008
James May - is a excellent man , his work inspired my work , because he is him self and write carefree almost Diary like.
James is exstreamly Intellegent , eccentric and British his work is 5 star .

Fascinating and Fun, 04 Oct 2007
What a wonderful book. Full of interesting facts and glorious photographs. Anyone who watched the programmes will be surprised to learn the book is even better, for it is more in depth and covers subjects which weren't really touched upon in the programme. James May has a beautiful way with words and makes the science and invention of the 20th Century both exciting and fascinating.

A great Christmas book - put it on your lists now.

A fascinating read, 16 Sep 2007
James May's 20th Century, published in hardback on the 6th September 2007, accompanies the fabulous TV series broadcasted on Channel 2.

The book of the TV series is ever more fascinating than the TV series itself, mainly because there's more 'pukka-arity' to it - simply meaning there's more information, and wacky facts about the 20th century.

And being James May, he doesn't describe it in any way humble, or without great lumps of humour stirred into the mixture of interest, funniness, and even some facts that you don't need, or want, to know (!)

So, in conclusion of my review for this fantastic novel (and novelist), this book is one that you can't really put down if you can help it. It comprises qualities, and quantities, which other books don't have -

More than deserves 5 Star +




A Great book, 12 Apr 2008
I cannot reccomend this book enougth this should join all the other carpentry books your so glad you own, its really comprehensive & it hard-back this is value for money & will be a reliable companion what ever your level & skill Buy it! Charles de Greeff (France)

All essential woodworking info in one book., 10 Jan 2008
I'm strictly a "hobbyist" woodworker and I ordered this on a whim, having just bought a router in the post xmas sales, hoping to pick up some ideas for projects.
The depth of information is outstanding, with the chapters being logically ordered and all types of wood, tool and method being laid out in detail with plenty of clear diagrams and "how-to" instructions.
I picked up plenty of hints and tips on things I never even knew I was doing wrong. I've also managed to identify some of the more obscure woodworking tools I inherited from my Grandfather, and found a use for them!
Money well spent, this will keep me busy for years.

Told me everything that I wanted to know, 19 Aug 2003
Wanting to get into woodworking for pleasure (and ultimately furnishing my house) but having very little prior knowledge about the subject, I wanted a book that I could use as a reference whenever it was needed. This book fulfills the role very nicely and gives excellent guidance on the purchase of tools as well as techniques. Having read through the relevant sections, I was able to go out the next day and purchase everything I needed.

Often the most difficult thing about starting out in a new hobby is finding somebody with experience to guide you. Whilst this is usually the best way, in my case it wasn't possible and this title was about as worthy a substitute as a reference book can be.

Good, but can be sketchy, 22 Jan 2003
First - this is a really well produced book. It shows what several dozen samples of different wood types look like (both plain and varnished), and goes on to outline the basic construction principles behind chairs, tables, and cupboards. It then covers the use of hand tools and power tools.

But, and it's a big but, this is really only an overview of a vast subject. For example, it covers drafting of a plan in one single page, which really isn't enough if you're planning to build a large piece of furniture.

So while it looks lovely, bear in mind that it's best considered as a roadmap for further study and experimentation.

Very Informative, 18 Nov 2001
Excellent book. I am studying Antique Furniture Restoration at college and find that this book covers all the woodworking basics that I need to know, learn and excel at. It is well laid out, easy to follow and has step by step guides for different types of joints, timbers, tools and wood finishing. It is my bible.

just the thing for a design student, 24 Jan 2000
this book is th most comprehensive of its type and i would strongly reccommend it to anyone who needs to do any design reseach. excellent across theboard

If you're into design, this should be your design bible, 15 Dec 1998
This is a great book for learning about everything from period styles of the 20th Century to the context in which every chair in this period was designed. Short biografies of the most important designer/architects is also included. The book contains very professional photographs and is a must-have to everyone that is the slightest bit interested in design. Nothing is missing from this book.

Pride and Prejudice, 26 Sep 2008
Harrison seems to have been one of those people who is his own worst enemy; too proud to be successful.
Sobel is almost as prejudiced in his favour as some of those who opposed him were prejudiced against him. So it's difficult to feel you have read this and got the true picture. It seems that the astronomical methods were more successful than she admits for most of the book.
Nevertheless this is a helpful read which puts the development of clocks into context and reminds us just how difficult it was to navigate the seas safely in the days before GPS.

Tick Tock , 27 Aug 2007
The epic story on the search for the holy grail of maritime navigation, how to calculate longitude? This is the story and the unlikely triumph of an English genius who more or less solved the age old problem of obtaining accurate longitude position fixes by the use of chronometers.

Anyone alive in the 18th century would have known that 'the longitude problem' was the thorniest scientific dilemma of the day and had been for centuries. Lacking the ability to measure their longitude, sailors throughout the great ages of exploration had been literally lost at sea as soon as they lost sight of land. Thousands of lives, and the increasing fortunes of nations, hung on a resolution. The quest for a solution had occupied scientists and their patrons for the better part of two centuries when, in 1714, Parliament upped the ante by offering a king's ransom (GBP20,000) to anyone whose method or device proved successful. It is amazing to think that some highly intelligent individuals came out with some of the most preposterous suggestions imaginable.

However in the main the intellects of the day were on the right path. Galileo, Sir Isaac Newton and most of the European scientific community had mapped the heavens in both hemispheres in their dogmatic pursuit of a celestial answer to the problem. In stark contrast, one man, John Harrison, dared to imagine a mechanical solution by using chronometers. He designs and constructs the most amazing time pieces of the era in his quest for accuracy and sets out on a series of sea trials to prove his point. This he eventually did but it took over two decades and more than a few arguments with the governments of the day.

A detailed, descriptive read full of interesting facts and features which basically is a concise historical narrative on astronomy, navigation and clock making. Without sounding like an 'anorak' I found the descriptions on clock making and testing really interesting.

A very interesting single sitting read!




Very Good, 06 Jul 2007
Longitude does not at the outset seem a very interesting idea for a book but this is a mistaken assumption. It is very well written, not overly technical plus has a pace to it which keeps the reader intrested. All in all a very good book.

We cannot 'keep' time - only record its passing, 17 Nov 2006
A well researched, beautifully written history of the race to measure longitude. I get the feeling from this book that Harrison was probably the most altruistic of all the rearchers looking for this'Holy Grail' of the sea. For me, Sobel has once again triumphed as she did in 'Galileos Daughter'.

Neither here nor there..., 25 Oct 2006
Dava Sobel writes with such clarity and passion for her subject that I found myself easily drawn into this engaging subject.

I am especially interested in the history of sea-faring navigation. Her tale reminded me of my own perilous journey to England. It was on board Segnor Torres' yacht from Club Reggato in Valencia all the way to the British Legion, Clacton-on-Sea, back in 1973.

Now, whilst James Cook had the advantage of Harrison's latest chronometers we were less well prepared. Our plan to combine a wax-coated lead fathometer with dead-reckoning to track our Eastward drift, spectacularly failed when cloudy skies persisted throughout the 17 day voyage. Hopelessly adrift around 30 degrees North-West of Portugal, my desperate suggestion to release the precious cage of Ravens and observe their behaviour met with distain.

Nevertheless I remain inspired by John Harrison's dogged persistence. Inspired by Sobel's book in supportive of the underdog, and in honour of George III, I recently undertook a visit to the Maritime Museum at Greenwich. Although the steep hill leading up to Flamstead House necessitated recruiting help with my wheelchair, we made it to the top without incident.

I was kindly carried up the narrow winding staircase to the exhibition on the first floor by two ageing Sea Cadets. I was pleased to be able to return the favour by providing them with the telephone number of the Disability Claims Helpline of the War Pensions department, c/o `HMS Liverpool'; although the ships current deployment in the Adriatic may delay things somewhat. Nevertheless, they generally respond quickly to my annual bonus winter-payment enquiries, now that I've fully mastered Morse code.

To sum up: Sobel demonstrates with aplomb how the seminal Longitude Act of 1714 was a seismic sea-change (sic) in global navigability; a precursor to our global travel industry of today. Her fictional-prose style of factual writing is thoroughly absorbing, and I commend this book to you.

FS.


One of the best, 13 Oct 2007
This is one of the best design books I have ever found. It's everything from the history of how mice and gui's were first invented to just interesting information and interviews from the people who started it all. Still reading it, buts its very interesting and well worth it.

Good Content, 01 Sep 2007
Not only is this book exquisite, it also has remarkably good content. And then on top of that it's huge as well :) Definitely worth buying, I promise you it wont sit on your self, and has interviews with extremely relevant people. The only downside is that in 10 years or so it may be a little dated, but only because the concepts in here will have been implemented.

Packed with awesomeness, 13 Dec 2006
This is a huge book that actually lives up to its size. It's not one of those design books that kind of looks nice and then ends up on your shelf, it's actually full of great anecdotes, experiences and lessons from people who've made great (and not so great) stuff. Oh and it has a DVD of videos from those same people too. Fantastic.

If you design anything remotely interactive, from a website to a bottle-opener, you should own this.

A delight to own and read, 15 Jan 2008
I am reading this cover to cover, as there is a wealth of useful and fascinating information in a very well presented hardback, with excellent photography. A must for watch lovers!

One of the Best Books I've Ever Looked At, 16 Mar 2008
Looking at this book is so thought provoking and inpsiring. I could look at it for hours.

A great read - James May at his best, 16 Sep 2008
James May's 20th Century really is a fantastic book, and I couldn't think of a better book to read.
It's simply staggering for anyone who likes awe-inspiring machines, like the Saturn V rocket, the Spitfire, or even Concorde.

James May, with his usual wit, digs deep into the 20th century, and covers what was so good about Saturn V, why the Lunar Rover was such a rip off, and why no-one ever said "there goes a Concorde", and how the world was severely shrunk in such a short period of time. He explains why the Reginald Mitchell's Supermarine Spitfire was such an amazing invention, and tells us, with great style and humour, why some stuff just didn't make it.

All in all, then, James May's 20th Century is a fantastic book, and makes great reading material.
A fabulous read for anyone who likes James May, likes awesome machines, and wants to dig deeper into the Five W's: who, what, where, why and when.

Strongly recommended.


One of the best books Ive read, 26 Jan 2008
James May - is a excellent man , his work inspired my work , because he is him self and write carefree almost Diary like.
James is exstreamly Intellegent , eccentric and British his work is 5 star .

Fascinating and Fun, 04 Oct 2007
What a wonderful book. Full of interesting facts and glorious photographs. Anyone who watched the programmes will be surprised to learn the book is even better, for it is more in depth and covers subjects which weren't really touched upon in the programme. James May has a beautiful way with words and makes the science and invention of the 20th Century both exciting and fascinating.

A great Christmas book - put it on your lists now.

A fascinating read, 16 Sep 2007
James May's 20th Century, published in hardback on the 6th September 2007, accompanies the fabulous TV series broadcasted on Channel 2.

The book of the TV series is ever more fascinating than the TV series itself, mainly because there's more 'pukka-arity' to it - simply meaning there's more information, and wacky facts about the 20th century.

And being James May, he doesn't describe it in any way humble, or without great lumps of humour stirred into the mixture of interest, funniness, and even some facts that you don't need, or want, to know (!)

So, in conclusion of my review for this fantastic novel (and novelist), this book is one that you can't really put down if you can help it. It comprises qualities, and quantities, which other books don't have -

More than deserves 5 Star +




A Great book, 12 Apr 2008
I cannot reccomend this book enougth this should join all the other carpentry books your so glad you own, its really comprehensive & it hard-back this is value for money & will be a reliable companion what ever your level & skill Buy it! Charles de Greeff (France)

All essential woodworking info in one book., 10 Jan 2008
I'm strictly a "hobbyist" woodworker and I ordered this on a whim, having just bought a router in the post xmas sales, hoping to pick up some ideas for projects.
The depth of information is outstanding, with the chapters being logically ordered and all types of wood, tool and method being laid out in detail with plenty of clear diagrams and "how-to" instructions.
I picked up plenty of hints and tips on things I never even knew I was doing wrong. I've also managed to identify some of the more obscure woodworking tools I inherited from my Grandfather, and found a use for them!
Money well spent, this will keep me busy for years.

Told me everything that I wanted to know, 19 Aug 2003
Wanting to get into woodworking for pleasure (and ultimately furnishing my house) but having very little prior knowledge about the subject, I wanted a book that I could use as a reference whenever it was needed. This book fulfills the role very nicely and gives excellent guidance on the purchase of tools as well as techniques. Having read through the relevant sections, I was able to go out the next day and purchase everything I needed.

Often the most difficult thing about starting out in a new hobby is finding somebody with experience to guide you. Whilst this is usually the best way, in my case it wasn't possible and this title was about as worthy a substitute as a reference book can be.

Good, but can be sketchy, 22 Jan 2003
First - this is a really well produced book. It shows what several dozen samples of different wood types look like (both plain and varnished), and goes on to outline the basic construction principles behind chairs, tables, and cupboards. It then covers the use of hand tools and power tools.

But, and it's a big but, this is really only an overview of a vast subject. For example, it covers drafting of a plan in one single page, which really isn't enough if you're planning to build a large piece of furniture.

So while it looks lovely, bear in mind that it's best considered as a roadmap for further study and experimentation.

Very Informative, 18 Nov 2001
Excellent book. I am studying Antique Furniture Restoration at college and find that this book covers all the woodworking basics that I need to know, learn and excel at. It is well laid out, easy to follow and has step by step guides for different types of joints, timbers, tools and wood finishing. It is my bible.

just the thing for a design student, 24 Jan 2000
this book is th most comprehensive of its type and i would strongly reccommend it to anyone who needs to do any design reseach. excellent across theboard

If you're into design, this should be your design bible, 15 Dec 1998
This is a great book for learning about everything from period styles of the 20th Century to the context in which every chair in this period was designed. Short biografies of the most important designer/architects is also included. The book contains very professional photographs and is a must-have to everyone that is the slightest bit interested in design. Nothing is missing from this book.

Pride and Prejudice, 26 Sep 2008
Harrison seems to have been one of those people who is his own worst enemy; too proud to be successful.
Sobel is almost as prejudiced in his favour as some of those who opposed him were prejudiced against him. So it's difficult to feel you have read this and got the true picture. It seems that the astronomical methods were more successful than she admits for most of the book.
Nevertheless this is a helpful read which puts the development of clocks into context and reminds us just how difficult it was to navigate the seas safely in the days before GPS.

Tick Tock , 27 Aug 2007
The epic story on the search for the holy grail of maritime navigation, how to calculate longitude? This is the story and the unlikely triumph of an English genius who more or less solved the age old problem of obtaining accurate longitude position fixes by the use of chronometers.

Anyone alive in the 18th century would have known that 'the longitude problem' was the thorniest scientific dilemma of the day and had been for centuries. Lacking the ability to measure their longitude, sailors throughout the great ages of exploration had been literally lost at sea as soon as they lost sight of land. Thousands of lives, and the increasing fortunes of nations, hung on a resolution. The quest for a solution had occupied scientists and their patrons for the better part of two centuries when, in 1714, Parliament upped the ante by offering a king's ransom (GBP20,000) to anyone whose method or device proved successful. It is amazing to think that some highly intelligent individuals came out with some of the most preposterous suggestions imaginable.

However in the main the intellects of the day were on the right path. Galileo, Sir Isaac Newton and most of the European scientific community had mapped the heavens in both hemispheres in their dogmatic pursuit of a celestial answer to the problem. In stark contrast, one man, John Harrison, dared to imagine a mechanical solution by using chronometers. He designs and constructs the most amazing time pieces of the era in his quest for accuracy and sets out on a series of sea trials to prove his point. This he eventually did but it took over two decades and more than a few arguments with the governments of the day.

A detailed, descriptive read full of interesting facts and features which basically is a concise historical narrative on astronomy, navigation and clock making. Without sounding like an 'anorak' I found the descriptions on clock making and testing really interesting.

A very interesting single sitting read!




Very Good, 06 Jul 2007
Longitude does not at the outset seem a very interesting idea for a book but this is a mistaken assumption. It is very well written, not overly technical plus has a pace to it which keeps the reader intrested. All in all a very good book.

We cannot 'keep' time - only record its passing, 17 Nov 2006
A well researched, beautifully written history of the race to measure longitude. I get the feeling from this book that Harrison was probably the most altruistic of all the rearchers looking for this'Holy Grail' of the sea. For me, Sobel has once again triumphed as she did in 'Galileos Daughter'.

Neither here nor there..., 25 Oct 2006
Dava Sobel writes with such clarity and passion for her subject that I found myself easily drawn into this engaging subject.

I am especially interested in the history of sea-faring navigation. Her tale reminded me of my own perilous journey to England. It was on board Segnor Torres' yacht from Club Reggato in Valencia all the way to the British Legion, Clacton-on-Sea, back in 1973.

Now, whilst James Cook had the advantage of Harrison's latest chronometers we were less well prepared. Our plan to combine a wax-coated lead fathometer with dead-reckoning to track our Eastward drift, spectacularly failed when cloudy skies persisted throughout the 17 day voyage. Hopelessly adrift around 30 degrees North-West of Portugal, my desperate suggestion to release the precious cage of Ravens and observe their behaviour met with distain.

Nevertheless I remain inspired by John Harrison's dogged persistence. Inspired by Sobel's book in supportive of the underdog, and in honour of George III, I recently undertook a visit to the Maritime Museum at Greenwich. Although the steep hill leading up to Flamstead House necessitated recruiting help with my wheelchair, we made it to the top without incident.

I was kindly carried up the narrow winding staircase to the exhibition on the first floor by two ageing Sea Cadets. I was pleased to be able to return the favour by providing them with the telephone number of the Disability Claims Helpline of the War Pensions department, c/o `HMS Liverpool'; although the ships current deployment in the Adriatic may delay things somewhat. Nevertheless, they generally respond quickly to my annual bonus winter-payment enquiries, now that I've fully mastered Morse code.

To sum up: Sobel demonstrates with aplomb how the seminal Longitude Act of 1714 was a seismic sea-change (sic) in global navigability; a precursor to our global travel industry of today. Her fictional-prose style of factual writing is thoroughly absorbing, and I commend this book to you.

FS.


One of the best, 13 Oct 2007
This is one of the best design books I have ever found. It's everything from the history of how mice and gui's were first invented to just interesting information and interviews from the people who started it all. Still reading it, buts its very interesting and well worth it.

Good Content, 01 Sep 2007
Not only is this book exquisite, it also has remarkably good content. And then on top of that it's huge as well :) Definitely worth buying, I promise you it wont sit on your self, and has interviews with extremely relevant people. The only downside is that in 10 years or so it may be a little dated, but only because the concepts in here will have been implemented.

Packed with awesomeness, 13 Dec 2006
This is a huge book that actually lives up to its size. It's not one of those design books that kind of looks nice and then ends up on your shelf, it's actually full of great anecdotes, experiences and lessons from people who've made great (and not so great) stuff. Oh and it has a DVD of videos from those same people too. Fantastic.

If you design anything remotely interactive, from a website to a bottle-opener, you should own this.

A delight to own and read, 15 Jan 2008
I am reading this cover to cover, as there is a wealth of useful and fascinating information in a very well presented hardback, with excellent photography. A must for watch lovers!

Thought provoking, 10 Aug 2005
This book gets you thinking about typography rather than teaching you the art - although there are a few practical tips you will pick up along the way. Written in a witty and entertaining style it is a worthwhile introductory read for those just getting into typography.

Covers lots of basics in an accessible manner, 26 Jul 2004
I'm a typography novice. Before reading this book, I thought the font Gaudi was named after the architect of La Sagrada Familia.
The book is written in a down-to-earth tone of voice that held my interest. It gives a good introduction to the use of grids in layout and why they are so important. Basics such as x-height, linespacing, letterspacing and ligatures are covered. Some intriguing typographical history is worked in to give explanation to the current state of type. Most pages give samples of popular fonts.

You'll probably have to do a lot more reading and practicing before becoming a typographic expert, but this little book covers a lot of relevant information for the novice in an accessible manner. Several times, the author makes mention of today's cheap paperback novels that are produced without any thought to good design. This book isn't one of those. Each page has been painstakingly well designed, and the price tag shows it.

Quick read, little info, 23 Apr 2004
'Find Out How Type Works'? Not by reading this. It's Ok if you know nothing about typography, as it quickly skims over some obvious points that you should know about this broad subject area. However, it's very overated, and with a basic understanding of type you'll feel you've been let down by this book.

Not the dinner but the candle lit table, 29 Feb 2004
This book is beautifully presented and easily read but the content maybe a little too thin. However I suppose it's an introductory text that tries to get the reader to get a feel for what is a highly specialised art form. Half the pages are illustrations while the text is allowed a generous amount of space. Some of the more important or factually based information is set in smaller type and acts as a prompt for the reader to investigate further. Effectively it's a book that creates a mood that once you've grasped can lead you on to more hardcore texts such as Elements in Typographic Style or The New Typography.

A great enthusiasm builder, but not enough meat, 15 Aug 2003
This is a great read for someone who has never considered type before. Those graphic design graduates who were never taught type in ground-up way, self-tought pros wanting to learn some theory or for editors, subs or marketing people who are now doubling-up as designers. It really makes you share the authors' total enthusiasm for type, although there are other equally clear introductions that are either cheaper or offer more. If you want hard knowledge rather than enjoyable prose check out The Mac is Not a Typewriter, Rauari McClean's pre-DTP Manual of Typography, or About Face by Rotovision.

One of the Best Books I've Ever Looked At, 16 Mar 2008
Looking at this book is so thought provoking and inpsiring. I could look at it for hours.

A great read - James May at his best, 16 Sep 2008
James May's 20th Century really is a fantastic book, and I couldn't think of a better book to read.
It's simply staggering for anyone who likes awe-inspiring machines, like the Saturn V rocket, the Spitfire, or even Concorde.

James May, with his usual wit, digs deep into the 20th century, and covers what was so good about Saturn V, why the Lunar Rover was such a rip off, and why no-one ever said "there goes a Concorde", and how the world was severely shrunk in such a short period of time. He explains why the Reginald Mitchell's Supermarine Spitfire was such an amazing invention, and tells us, with great style and humour, why some stuff just didn't make it.

All in all, then, James May's 20th Century is a fantastic book, and makes great reading material.
A fabulous read for anyone who likes James May, likes awesome machines, and wants to dig deeper into the Five W's: who, what, where, why and when.

Strongly recommended.


One of the best books Ive read, 26 Jan 2008
James May - is a excellent man , his work inspired my work , because he is him self and write carefree almost Diary like.
James is exstreamly Intellegent , eccentric and British his work is 5 star .

Fascinating and Fun, 04 Oct 2007
What a wonderful book. Full of interesting facts and glorious photographs. Anyone who watched the programmes will be surprised to learn the book is even better, for it is more in depth and covers subjects which weren't really touched upon in the programme. James May has a beautiful way with words and makes the science and invention of the 20th Century both exciting and fascinating.

A great Christmas book - put it on your lists now.

A fascinating read, 16 Sep 2007
James May's 20th Century, published in hardback on the 6th September 2007, accompanies the fabulous TV series broadcasted on Channel 2.

The book of the TV series is ever more fascinating than the TV series itself, mainly because there's more 'pukka-arity' to it - simply meaning there's more information, and wacky facts about the 20th century.

And being James May, he doesn't describe it in any way humble, or without great lumps of humour stirred into the mixture of interest, funniness, and even some facts that you don't need, or want, to know (!)

So, in conclusion of my review for this fantastic novel (and novelist), this book is one that you can't really put down if you can help it. It comprises qualities, and quantities, which other books don't have -

More than deserves 5 Star +




A Great book, 12 Apr 2008
I cannot reccomend this book enougth this should join all the other carpentry books your so glad you own, its really comprehensive & it hard-back this is value for money & will be a reliable companion what ever your level & skill Buy it! Charles de Greeff (France)

All essential woodworking info in one book., 10 Jan 2008
I'm strictly a "hobbyist" woodworker and I ordered this on a whim, having just bought a router in the post xmas sales, hoping to pick up some ideas for projects.
The depth of information is outstanding, with the chapters being logically ordered and all types of wood, tool and method being laid out in detail with plenty of clear diagrams and "how-to" instructions.
I picked up plenty of hints and tips on things I never even knew I was doing wrong. I've also managed to identify some of the more obscure woodworking tools I inherited from my Grandfather, and found a use for them!
Money well spent, this will keep me busy for years.

Told me everything that I wanted to know, 19 Aug 2003
Wanting to get into woodworking for pleasure (and ultimately furnishing my house) but having very little prior knowledge about the subject, I wanted a book that I could use as a reference whenever it was needed. This book fulfills the role very nicely and gives excellent guidance on the purchase of tools as well as techniques. Having read through the relevant sections, I was able to go out the next day and purchase everything I needed.

Often the most difficult thing about starting out in a new hobby is finding somebody with experience to guide you. Whilst this is usually the best way, in my case it wasn't possible and this title was about as worthy a substitute as a reference book can be.

Good, but can be sketchy, 22 Jan 2003
First - this is a really well produced book. It shows what several dozen samples of different wood types look like (both plain and varnished), and goes on to outline the basic construction principles behind chairs, tables, and cupboards. It then covers the use of hand tools and power tools.

But, and it's a big but, this is really only an overview of a vast subject. For example, it covers drafting of a plan in one single page, which really isn't enough if you're planning to build a large piece of furniture.

So while it looks lovely, bear in mind that it's best considered as a roadmap for further study and experimentation.

Very Informative, 18 Nov 2001
Excellent book. I am studying Antique Furniture Restoration at college and find that this book covers all the woodworking basics that I need to know, learn and excel at. It is well laid out, easy to follow and has step by step guides for different types of joints, timbers, tools and wood finishing. It is my bible.

just the thing for a design student, 24 Jan 2000
this book is th most comprehensive of its type and i would strongly reccommend it to anyone who needs to do any design reseach. excellent across theboard

If you're into design, this should be your design bible, 15 Dec 1998
This is a great book for learning about everything from period styles of the 20th Century to the context in which every chair in this period was designed. Short biografies of the most important designer/architects is also included. The book contains very professional photographs and is a must-have to everyone that is the slightest bit interested in design. Nothing is missing from this book.

Pride and Prejudice, 26 Sep 2008
Harrison seems to have been one of those people who is his own worst enemy; too proud to be successful.
Sobel is almost as prejudiced in his favour as some of those who opposed him were prejudiced against him. So it's difficult to feel you have read this and got the true picture. It seems that the astronomical methods were more successful than she admits for most of the book.
Nevertheless this is a helpful read which puts the development of clocks into context and reminds us just how difficult it was to navigate the seas safely in the days before GPS.

Tick Tock , 27 Aug 2007
The epic story on the search for the holy grail of maritime navigation, how to calculate longitude? This is the story and the unlikely triumph of an English genius who more or less solved the age old problem of obtaining accurate longitude position fixes by the use of chronometers.

Anyone alive in the 18th century would have known that 'the longitude problem' was the thorniest scientific dilemma of the day and had been for centuries. Lacking the ability to measure their longitude, sailors throughout the great ages of exploration had been literally lost at sea as soon as they lost sight of land. Thousands of lives, and the increasing fortunes of nations, hung on a resolution. The quest for a solution had occupied scientists and their patrons for the better part of two centuries when, in 1714, Parliament upped the ante by offering a king's ransom (GBP20,000) to anyone whose method or device proved successful. It is amazing to think that some highly intelligent individuals came out with some of the most preposterous suggestions imaginable.

However in the main the intellects of the day were on the right path. Galileo, Sir Isaac Newton and most of the European scientific community had mapped the heavens in both hemispheres in their dogmatic pursuit of a celestial answer to the problem. In stark contrast, one man, John Harrison, dared to imagine a mechanical solution by using chronometers. He designs and constructs the most amazing time pieces of the era in his quest for accuracy and sets out on a series of sea trials to prove his point. This he eventually did but it took over two decades and more than a few arguments with the governments of the day.

A detailed, descriptive read full of interesting facts and features which basically is a concise historical narrative on astronomy, navigation and clock making. Without sounding like an 'anorak' I found the descriptions on clock making and testing really interesting.

A very interesting single sitting read!




Very Good, 06 Jul 2007
Longitude does not at the outset seem a very interesting idea for a book but this is a mistaken assumption. It is very well written, not overly technical plus has a pace to it which keeps the reader intrested. All in all a very good book.

We cannot 'keep' time - only record its passing, 17 Nov 2006
A well researched, beautifully written history of the race to measure longitude. I get the feeling from this book that Harrison was probably the most altruistic of all the rearchers looking for this'Holy Grail' of the sea. For me, Sobel has once again triumphed as she did in 'Galileos Daughter'.

Neither here nor there..., 25 Oct 2006
Dava Sobel writes with such clarity and passion for her subject that I found myself easily drawn into this engaging subject.

I am especially interested in the history of sea-faring navigation. Her tale reminded me of my own perilous journey to England. It was on board Segnor Torres' yacht from Club Reggato in Valencia all the way to the British Legion, Clacton-on-Sea, back in 1973.

Now, whilst James Cook had the advantage of Harrison's latest chronometers we were less well prepared. Our plan to combine a wax-coated lead fathometer with dead-reckoning to track our Eastward drift, spectacularly failed when cloudy skies persisted throughout the 17 day voyage. Hopelessly adrift around 30 degrees North-West of Portugal, my desperate suggestion to release the precious cage of Ravens and observe their behaviour met with distain.

Nevertheless I remain inspired by John Harrison's dogged persistence. Inspired by Sobel's book in supportive of the underdog, and in honour of George III, I recently undertook a visit to the Maritime Museum at Greenwich. Although the steep hill leading up to Flamstead House necessitated recruiting help with my wheelchair, we made it to the top without incident.

I was kindly carried up the narrow winding staircase to the exhibition on the first floor by two ageing Sea Cadets. I was pleased to be able to return the favour by providing them with the telephone number of the Disability Claims Helpline of the War Pensions department, c/o `HMS Liverpool'; although the ships current deployment in the Adriatic may delay things somewhat. Nevertheless, they generally respond quickly to my annual bonus winter-payment enquiries, now that I've fully mastered Morse code.

To sum up: Sobel demonstrates with aplomb how the seminal Longitude Act of 1714 was a seismic sea-change (sic) in global navigability; a precursor to our global travel industry of today. Her fictional-prose style of factual writing is thoroughly absorbing, and I commend this book to you.

FS.


One of the best, 13 Oct 2007
This is one of the best design books I have ever found. It's everything from the history of how mice and gui's were first invented to just interesting information and interviews from the people who started it all. Still reading it, buts its very interesting and well worth it.

Good Content, 01 Sep 2007
Not only is this book exquisite, it also has remarkably good content. And then on top of that it's huge as well :) Definitely worth buying, I promise you it wont sit on your self, and has interviews with extremely relevant people. The only downside is that in 10 years or so it may be a little dated, but only because the concepts in here will have been implemented.

Packed with awesomeness, 13 Dec 2006
This is a huge book that actually lives up to its size. It's not one of those design books that kind of looks nice and then ends up on your shelf, it's actually full of great anecdotes, experiences and lessons from people who've made great (and not so great) stuff. Oh and it has a DVD of videos from those same people too. Fantastic.

If you design anything remotely interactive, from a website to a bottle-opener, you should own this.

A delight to own and read, 15 Jan 2008
I am reading this cover to cover, as there is a wealth of useful and fascinating information in a very well presented hardback, with excellent photography. A must for watch lovers!

Thought provoking, 10 Aug 2005
This book gets you thinking about typography rather than teaching you the art - although there are a few practical tips you will pick up along the way. Written in a witty and entertaining style it is a worthwhile introductory read for those just getting into typography.

Covers lots of basics in an accessible manner, 26 Jul 2004
I'm a typography novice. Before reading this book, I thought the font Gaudi was named after the architect of La Sagrada Familia.
The book is written in a down-to-earth tone of voice that held my interest. It gives a good introduction to the use of grids in layout and why they are so important. Basics such as x-height, linespacing, letterspacing and ligatures are covered. Some intriguing typographical history is worked in to give explanation to the current state of type. Most pages give samples of popular fonts.

You'll probably have to do a lot more reading and practicing before becoming a typographic expert, but this little book covers a lot of relevant information for the novice in an accessible manner. Several times, the author makes mention of today's cheap paperback novels that are produced without any thought to good design. This book isn't one of those. Each page has been painstakingly well designed, and the price tag