The Story Of England [Paperback]

Christopher Hibbert (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: January 1, 1994

The perfect introduction to England's past for readers of all ages, this book is also a unique work of popular history. Christopher Hibbert is a master storyteller. With vivid character sketches, telling details and well-chosen anecdotes he brings people and places to life, while the outline of great events remains clear. His remarkable narrative gift keeps the reader enthralled, from the first encounter with England's Neolithic inhabitants, through the entire course of the country's political, economic and cultural history, to an expression of faith in the qualities of the English today. The text is illuminated throughout by many colour illustrations, and the need for quick reference is met by maps, genealogies, fold-out chronological charts and a comprehensive index. Concise yet richly informative, this book presents a new style of history that will delight and educate all who read it.

Product Details

• Paperback: 224 pages
• Publisher: Phaidon Press (January 1, 1994)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0714826529
• ISBN-13: 978-0714826523
• Product Dimensions: 8.2 x 5.4 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 11.2 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 3.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (9 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #11,968 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #10 in Books > History > Europe > Ireland
  • #59 in Books > History > Europe > England

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

16 of 16 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Good Overview, But Leaves Major Events Out, October 30, 2003

By 

Tracy Davis (California, United States) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Story Of England (Paperback)

If someone is looking for a good, easily read, overview of English History, Christopher Hibbert is a logical choice. His 'The Story of England' is both entertaining and informative. However, if you already know something of English history, you will be amazed at the short shrift he gives to major events such as World War I & II, the Wars of the Roses, and some literary/social events that are certainly worth mentioning. Hibbert does well with the ancient history sections, and he does throw in great anecdotes on people and places that are accurate as well as fun to read. Hibbert also includes timelines and maps for both England and World history, and several royal family trees to pin down dates and people. For a beginning book on this subject, I would highly recommend it.

10 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars It's the fat-free version of English history, November 11, 2002

By 

Jennifer Stevens (Richmond, VA USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Story Of England (Paperback)

The same day I became engaged to my British boyfriend, we stopped by a bookstore and I found this book. Since I'm about to begin on a lifelong commitment to an Englishman, I thought it was only appropriate that I learn more about his country and cultural background. However, given the vastness of England's history, I felt overwhelmed: How could I possibly get a decent overall review of England's history without my head spinning in the process!?

"The Story of England" was the perfect solution. Its condensed format, covering most of the major historical bases, was exactly what I'd been looking for. It provides just enough insight for me to have a good impression of where my betrothed and his family are from, but doesn't weigh me down with 5,000 years' worth of detail. I especially liked the timeline charts and genealogy listings in the back.

However, I'm not giving it five stars, even though it is obviously well-researched and an ambitious effort. First, I agree with the other reviewers who have commented on the long-windedness of the author. (Perhaps it is a British English vs American English thing -- who knows?) Second, although the author touches on many different historical events, I felt that some should have received more attention -- maybe just a page or so. There were several times where I felt like the author stopped short of telling me the basic facts.

All in all, this is a very good read. It is perfect for those of you who'd like to learn more about England's history and the events that help us understand how England has become the country it is today.

10 of 12 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars A Good and Concise Book, January 8, 2001

By 

Global Wanderer (Asia, Europe, Wherever) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Story Of England (Paperback)

I read this book over the past weekend and found it so absorbing. Sure, this is an English history suitable for ones in a hurry but it's a very good one for that purpose. I like his narrative style and how he portrayed his subjects. He captured important persons and events in English history and put them together in a concise manner. You will be able to see a clear development of England through times - pretty quickly. The book's presentation is also nice. This is not a history book for serious readers or students majoring in history, I suppose. But it's good for general readers and those who are looking for an enjoyable history book to read. The reason that I'm giving it only 4-star is because I think in certain places, Mr. Hibbert could have elaborated a little bit more. Still, the book as it is, is simply very good. I'm going to buy more books written by Mr. Hibbert.