subject: Learn More About Culture And History This Summer [print this page] As any seasoned bookworm will now, there's nothing quite like diving between the covers of a paperback or hardback and really engrossing yourself in it. And with millions of people currently getting ready to go away on their summer holiday, now might be the perfect time to track down suitable reading material for your big break. Of course, reading can be insightful as well as entertaining - and here are a few suggestions for those of you looking to broaden your knowledge of British culture and history.
Britain's Best Historic Sites - Tom Quinn
Britain is renowned the world over for its huge array of spectacular historical sites, which attract millions of visitors from all over the globe each year. In Britain's Best Historic Sites, former Countryman Magazine editor Tom Quinn celebrates the UK's historic remains and takes a closer look at just why they hold such fascination for so many people today. More than 80 different sites are discussed in this book, including Stonehenge, Hadrian's Wall, the Tower of London and the Castlerigg Stone Circle.
Visions of England - Roy Strong
Writer, broadcaster and art historian Sir Roy Strong examines English national identity in Visions of England, avoiding political bias and jingoism to carve out an inclusive vision of England relevant to all its inhabitants and admirers. Sir Roy takes a particular look at the resonance of rural England's distinctive character and asks whether its traditions of pastoralism, aestheticism and patriotism can provide inspiration to modern-day England.
The Story of England - Michael Wood
An accompaniment to a 2010 BBC TV documentary, Michael Wood's The Story of England details 15 centuries of history in the Leicestershire village of Kibworth. The village, which lies close to the geographical heart of England, has a fascinating past stretching back to the Roman era. Wood takes an in-depth look at Kibworth's unique story, but also seeks to link it to the wider experience of the English people over the centuries, celebrating their achievements in the face of considerable hardship and resolute spirit.
The Times Atlas of London
Britain's capital city finds itself right in the thick of the action this summer, playing host to athletes and guests from all over the world during this year's Olympic Games. The Times Atlas of London traces the city's evolution from its humble origins to become one of the world's truly elite commerce and tourism hotspots. The book compiles rare photographs, detailed maps and statistics to help the reader grasp the enormous upheaval London has endured over the centuries.
