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The Story of the British Isles in 100 Places

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( 1,003 ratings, 118 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Story of the British Isles in 100 Places by Neil Oliver explores the rich history of the British Isles through 100 significant locations. The author takes readers on a journey from ancient times to the present, highlighting how each place has played a crucial role in shaping the cultural and historical landscape of Britain. It's a captivating travel through time and geography.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you love exploring history through captivating stories tied to specific locations. You'll journey through the British Isles, unearthing fascinating details that connect places to pivotal moments in history, all with engaging insights from the author.

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(Edward Stourton)

From much-loved historian Neil Oliver, comes this beautifully written, kaleidoscopic history of a place with a story like no other.

The British Isles, this archipelago of islands, is to Neil Oliver the best place in the world.

Beautifully written, evocative, and deeply personal account of what makes the British Isles so special from one of television's best loved historians. The paperback edition of one of the top 5 history HB bestsellers of 2019.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Delve into the soul of the British Isles through the insightful and evocative pages of The Story of the British Isles in 100 Places by Neil Oliver. This masterfully crafted narrative walks readers through the vibrant history and rich tapestry of this remarkable archipelago, one location at a time. From the haunting beauty of windswept headlands to the quiet reverence of ancient cathedrals, Oliver paints a vivid picture of a land steeped in tradition and history.

Neil Oliver, a beloved historian and charismatic presence on television, shares his deep admiration and love for the British Isles. He brings to life the human story of these islands, a tale spanning over a million years. The British Isles have seen it allβ€”the rise and fall of empires, the bloodshed of battles, the serenity of religious havens, and the echoes of industrial revolutions. Through his deeply personal and kaleidoscopic perspective, Oliver explores how these moments have collectively shaped the islands’ character.

Each of the 100 places featured in the book bears witness to key events and figures that have left an indelible mark on British history. Begin with the primordial footprints left by humankind’s earliest ancestors, journey through the eras of the Romans and Vikings, traverse the corridors of medieval fortresses, and stand amidst the turmoil of civil wars and the reverberations of world wars. Neil Oliver's exceptional storytelling ensures that each site is not merely a backdrop but a central character in its own right, embodying the spirit and resilience of the British Isles.

Reflecting on the hard-won peace and tolerance that the British Isles enjoy today, Oliver highlights both the triumphs and tribulations that characterise the region's past. From heroes to villains, each tale is imbued with lessons learned and legacies left behind. This book is not just a recounting of history; it is a celebration of the British Isles' enduring beauty and heritage.

As Edward Stourton aptly recommends, "Everyone should have two copies - one for the car and one for the house to plan journeys...a reminder to think more about the places you pass and less about your route, because every British journey is through rich history." The Story of the British Isles in 100 Places is an essential companion for anyone intrigued by the rich historical fabric woven through every corner of these islands.

This paperback edition, following its success as one of the top 5 history hardback bestsellers of 2019, offers readers a chance to carry this beloved book wherever they go. Join Neil Oliver on an unforgettable journey through a land with a story like no other, and see the British Isles through the eyes of one of its greatest admirers.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Story of the British Isles in 100 Places by Neil Oliver is praised for its highly crafted historical-archaeological essays centred on significant places in Britain and Ireland. Reviews highlight its tactile quality and Oliver's mastery of British history and landscape, offering a timeline journey from prehistoric to modern times. It's described as a deeply personal exploration and a book of compelling stories.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781784165352

Publisher: Transworld Publishers Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 16 April 2020

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Black Swan

Illustration: 8x4pp colour plates

Audience: General / adult, Tertiary education, Professional and scholarly

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 28.0mm

Width: 127.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 350g

Pages: 448

About the Author

Neil Oliver was born in Renfrew in Scotland. He studied archaeology at the University of Glasgow and worked as an archaeologist before training as a journalist. Since 2002 he has presented various TV series including Coast (in the UK and in the antipodes) A History of Ancient Britain, Vikings and Sacred Wonders of Britain. He is the author of several non-fiction books including the bestsellers The Story of Britain in 100 Places, The Story of the World in 100 Moments and Wisdom of the Ancients, and one novel. He lives in Stirling with his wife, three children and two Irish wolfhounds.

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