In the last 2-3 years I’ve been interested in reading about the Plantagenets, England’s greatest royal dynasty that ruled over England through eight generations of kings from 1216-1399. Continue reading “The Plantagenets by Dan Jones (A Book Review)”
I have been fascinated by the story of Anne Boleyn, King Henry VIII’s second wife, who was tragically beheaded at the Tower of London on 19 May 1536. The Tudor period is on top of my list of the most intriguing eras of English history. When reading a book about this period, I am always enthralled by Henry VIII’s evil scheme to get rid of his wife to achieve his goal to produce an heir; the conspiracy among his circle of trusted courtiers; and all the other fascinating events usually inspire me to read up more about the Tudors. Continue reading “In the Footsteps of Anne Boleyn by Morris & Grueninger”
The award winning ITV television mini-series Downton Abbey, piqued my interest about the social history of the Edwardian Period. I have only watched the first series (on youtube) simply because I am not fond of soap operas, and I must say that Downton Abbey is a posh soap opera. Rather than watch the whole series I decided to read books on social history of the era, which is so much more profitable and enjoyable.
Continue reading “Life Below Stairs, Allison Maloney (A Review)”
The author Jessica Fellowes, niece of the creator and writer of Downton Abbey, Julian Fellowes, was not only privy to the inside scoop of the production of the series but she is also an author and journalist and well qualified to write the book. Equally important is the photographer Nick Briggs, who captured awe inspiring images of the production that would transport Downton fans back into memorable scenes. Creator Julian Fellowes rightfully opens the book with a brief introduction, offering us insights. Continue reading “The World of Downton Abbey by Jessica Fellowes (Book Review)”
This year marks the 800th anniversary of this historic charter, and in this book English historian Dan Jones covers the background, all the important events, that led up to the issuance of the Magna Carta in 1215. Continue reading “Magna Carta: The Making and Legacy of the Great Charter by Dan Jones (Book Review)”
I have visited the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Museum back in 2003 and I’ve watched Curtis Roosevelt on many documentaries about FDR and I was always interested to know more about his perspective on his grandfather. It is very fascinating to learn in this book some new information about the president from an intimate source. Continue reading ““Too Close to the Sun: Growing Up in the Shadow of my Grandparents” by Curtis Roosevelt (Book Review)”
My involvement with the community outreach at my local church enables me to deal with people who suffer from depression and other psychological ailments so I have a strong personal interest in the field and have learned a lot from this book. Continue reading ““Cracked: Why Psychiatry is Doing More Harm Than Good” by James Davies (Book Review)”