Join Books.org — it's free

Book cover of London
Great Britain - History, Regional British History - London

London

by Neil Morris
Write a review
Log in to track your reading progress.

Overview

Huge, noisy, quaint yet cosmopolitan, and altogether striking in its contrasts, the city of London is examined in all its complexity in this dynamic book. Learn how this city on the Thames, dating back over 2,000 years, developed from a small settlement consisting of only a river crossing and a garrison to the city it is today, famous for London Bridge, Westminster Abbey and so much more. Learn about its most famous inhabitants--from Queen Elizabeth I and Shakespeare to the Beatles and Margaret Thatcher--to understand how they all contributed to make London the city it is today.

Starting with the city’s Roman roots, continuing through the Saxon, Medieval and Tudor periods and into its growth in the Georgian and Victorian ages, we see London come alive as a vibrant, modern city. Through original artwork, photographs, maps, and time lines, we learn about its increasing relevance on the world stage as the British Empire touches every corner of the globe. The devastation of the two World Wars, the rebuilding of the city, the increase in immigration and London’s continued role as a "capital city" complete the story told in this engaging and lively book.

Illustrations and text provide an overview of the history of London, England, from its Roman roots to the present day.

Synopsis

A beautifully illustrated and dramatic urban history lesson.

Publishers Weekly

Incorporating photos, timelines and illustrations, the paper-over-board Great Cities Through the Ages series adds two titles that explore key European sites. In Italy's Venice by Renzo Rossi, readers travel from the city's settlement in the fourth century through the reign of the doges (chief magistrates) to the present day, along the way learning about such traditions as "Carnevale," held each winter since the 11th century. First a Roman settlement, later the capital of the British empire, London by Neil Morris examines the town on the Thames, with sections on "Medieval London" and "London at War," as well as spreads on the monarchy, transportation, architecture and more. Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.

About the Author, Neil Morris

Neil Morris has written many books. He lives in Britain.

Reviews

There are no reviews yet. Log in to write one.

Editorials

Publishers Weekly

Incorporating photos, timelines and illustrations, the paper-over-board Great Cities Through the Ages series adds two titles that explore key European sites. In Italy's Venice by Renzo Rossi, readers travel from the city's settlement in the fourth century through the reign of the doges (chief magistrates) to the present day, along the way learning about such traditions as "Carnevale," held each winter since the 11th century. First a Roman settlement, later the capital of the British empire, London by Neil Morris examines the town on the Thames, with sections on "Medieval London" and "London at War," as well as spreads on the monarchy, transportation, architecture and more. Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.

Children's Literature

London's unique and fascinating history began with the Romans when they first settled by the Thames in 43 A. D. and called the town Londinium. Readers will be amazed with the intriguing information found on the pages of this over-sized addition to the "Great Cities Through the Ages" series by Enchanted Lion Books. This comprehensive book provides a visual treat as well. The informative text is set in chunks throughout the spreads where pictures, graphics, diagrams and illustrations are scattered. These graphics include famous buildings, people, rules and homes. A timeline of events is also included on the pages. The format provides a look at this great city that will appeal to all readers. In addition to Roman rule other topics include Saxon and Norman London, Medieval London, the Tudor and Stuart eras, plus art, literature and theater. Readers will learn about the Great Fire of London that burned for five days and the famous West End landmark, Piccadilly Circus. (The name Piccadilly comes from the ruffs worn by 17th century English "dandies.") Architectural styles, clothing styles, cathedrals, the monarchy and London at War are covered—along with The Beatles, Indian cultural influences and a look into the 21st Century. This is a truly comprehensive look at the events, people and history of this truly cosmopolitan city. A complete index is included. This book is an excellent resource to have in library media centers and classrooms. 2004, Enchanted Lion Books, Ages 10 up.
—Sue Reichard

School Library Journal

Gr 5 Up-Taking a page from DK design, these books offer two-page treatments of historical and thematic material. Each spread presents a one-paragraph overview, a web of captioned images and small blocks of text, and a time line of significant events. Among the highlights in London are art, literature, and theater; transportation; the Thames; sports; and the ethnic diversity among the residents. Venetian topics include the Doge's Palace, the Arsenal, Carnival, St. Mark's Square, and the unique aspects of life on a lagoon, in addition to the segments on particular eras (from the locale's origins to the present). Whereas the "Eyewitness" books (DK) have a clean design and high-quality reproductions, these titles are not as exacting. The pages are crowded and busy, and while the visual choices are interesting and the original illustrations of period life enhance understanding, the reproductions of famous paintings, particularly in Venice, are dark to the point of being unclear. The "Cities of the World" series (Children's) provides solid information and strong visuals-although not as many. The "Cities through Time" series (Runestone) conveys an organized, chronological sense of place. Purchase the titles under review where city information is frequently requested; their large format and abundance of things to see will elicit the "wow" response.-Wendy Lukehart, Washington DC Public Library Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.

Book Details

Published
November 1, 2003
Publisher
Enchanted Lion Books
Pages
44
Format
Hardcover
ISBN
9781592700134

More by Neil Morris

Similar books