The Story Of Britain

Rating:
Summary: A disappointing and patchy account which omits too much
Review: Although describing itself as a noble attempt to produce a concise and compelling account of Britain's history in one volume, this book lands wide of its mark. It reads like it was written in a hurry. It begins with a stodgy account of English history through the lives of its kings and queens up to William IV. Thereafter it consists of a series of poorly written essays on various aspects of modern British history. The account of the First World War is dreadful. Its saving grace is the quality and choice of illustrations

Rating:
Summary: what an excellent book for childrens use
Review: I am a mother of three children and have historical questions thrown at me each week. After a long search I found Roy Strong's,excellently written The Story of Britian, it is easy to understand, no waffle, clear and concise, the perfect book for quick referance on history. It is the ideal starting point for any historical matter, from 55B.C. to the postscript beyond 1990. A valuable book for all households with children.

Rating:
Summary: Excellent History--Brilliant!!
Review: I can't recommend this enough--concise,clear well written ,and accessible .The chapters covering the British Civil Wars and the aftermath are worth the price of the book alone.The author's genius can be seen here--he takes VERY complex social ,religious ,and political events and concisely unravels them to inform and enlighten the reader on what actually happened .I've read Schama's 3 volumes and enjoyed his work immensely,but with Strong I actually learned British History--Well done,very well done.

Rating:
Summary: A poor story of Britain
Review: Yet again we have a book that confuses England with Britain, with virtually no reference to pre-1707 Wales, and a token reference to Scottish history.

This is a pity as Roy Strong writes well and of course there can be no doubt that the history of English Kings and Queens is a glorious one.

For a more honest account of the history of this fascinating island, read the Oxford History of Britain.