The Bottom Line
A magnificent volume, which provides a comprehensive history of Europe.
Pros
- The best single volume history of Europe
- Excellent maps, charts and asides
- Smooth and friendly style
Cons
- Too imposing for some readers
Description
- Paperback, 1365 pages
- Many appendixes and lists
- ISBN: 0712666338
Guide Review - Europe: A History by Norman Davies
The recipient of rave reviews, Norman Davies' history of Europe covers events from the ice-age to the early nineteen-nineties, with a style of writing that is enjoyable, accessible, and informative. His descriptions are vivid, his conclusions valid, and the many 'capsules' - a sophisticated description of certain boxed sections of text - provide enlightening asides. Some commentators have faulted Davies' choice of material, but you can't include everything in one book, and the overview he provides is excellent. Meanwhile, students and experts will find the various appendixes a useful reference source. However, if you plan to use this volume for anything other than a doorstop, I suggest investing in the hardback version!
