Tudor Age

Library Journal

A well-known writer of popular Tudor biographies ( Henry VIII , Penguin 1988; Elizabeth I , Penguin 1988), Ridley here presents a topical rather than narrative overview of 16th-century England aimed at the general reader. Beginning with a family portrait of the Tudors, he explores in subsequent chapters such subjects as London, houses, furniture and food, law enforcement and war, and sports and pastimes. The illustrations--color as well as black and white, many full page--complement the very readable text. Some professional historians will disagree with a few of Ridley's interpretations, but The Tudor Age is worthwhile for its fascinating descriptions of daily life and anecdotes about the era's famous figures. It will be an informative and attractive addition to public library shelves.-- Ronald Fritze, Lamar Univ., Beaumont, Texas