Customer Reviews

Anglo-Saxon Crafts (Revealing History)

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

One of the appealing aspects of the A-S period to me is that a lot of the technology is simple enough that I can understand it, when it is clearly explained. Leahy's book does a good job of explaining (with diagrams as well as words) how a pole-lathe, for instance works. His description and depiction of a warp-weighted loom left me saying "I could operate one of those! I see how it works."

The bit about tablet weaving even inspired me to try it. Leahy's book is not a how-to primer in any of the crafts, but again I could see enough to understand the priciple. I found a web-site that give some simple instructions, made myself a set of "tablets" out of a Cheerios box, and got the thing to work!

Of most of the books purchased to aid in Dark Age re-enactment, this one has proven to be the most valuable, the most useful, and most reliable. Clear illustrations, a diverse range of topics and a transparent writing style has made this title probably the most thumbed reference in a stable of well over a dozen regularly used references. Even for those who do not partake in re-enactment, "Anglo-Saxon Crafts" is a fascinating glimpse into the society that provided the roots of modern western civilisation.

This is one of the best resources for Anglo-Saxon Crafts on the market. There are numerous subjects and some outstanding photos of archelogocial finds. For anyone interested in Dark Age re-enactment this book is a 'must have'. It is well written, easy to read, and the photos are detailed and clear.