Rating: 
Summary: A review of excerpts
Review: Traveling in England for the last few weeks, I found myself anxiuosly awaiting the weekend edition of "The Daily Telegraph" (incidentily the last remaining legitimate newspaper in England) in order to read excerpts of this facinating work.Historically sound to the point that the BBC is releasing an educational series based on Simon Schamas retelling of the amazing history of Great Britain. Don't wait for the movie, educate yourself by reading all of the words.
Rating: 
Summary: An excellent overview of British history
Review: Whether or not you enjoy this work will depend in large measure on the type of experience you are seeking. If it is linear narrative, elegant prose with a dash of wit, historical accuracy, and attractive pictures, you will be well served. If you seek an in-depth analysis of ANY of the topics covered, however, you will be sorely disappointed. In order to provide this and still cover the vast expanse of time he seeks to review, Schama's text would need to balloon to at least five volumes (a prohibitive size for a commercially-oriented publication). The novice historian will appreciate the fact that no prior familiarity with British history is assumed; the often bewildering array of cultural groups is clearly outlined and enough maps pepper the text to give the reader an appreciation of the role geography played in the development of the British isles. The more experienced individual will enjoy the lively pace, excellent focus, and interesting anectodotes. Overall, I highly recommend it and would definitely purchase it again.
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