| Posted by Perry Gretton on 31 January, 2008 - 18:49 |
I've just finished Shakespeare by Bill Bryson. This is the latest title in the Eminent Lives series published by Harper Press.
I'm a great admirer of Bryson. He writes entertainingly and lucidly on just about any topic.
Given how little is known of Shakespeare's life, this must have been a difficult subject to research. Another writer could well have produced a dry dissertation, but Bryson in his inimitable fashion has vividly portrayed the times in which Shakespeare lived. (I'm pleased I wasn't born then.)
We learn a lot also about the Elizabethan (and later, Jacobean) theatre world. Being a writer then was no more financially rewarding than now, so it seems.
Highly recommended to anyone interested in the subject.
By: SNorton at 4 March, 2008 - 13:26
I have also just begun reading A Short History, but I have loved Shakespeare's works, biographies on him, texts on the time period, etc., for over twenty years. I would be very happy to read one of my favorite subjects presented by a writer I am growing fond of.
Show All 5 Comments
By: LeBard at 5 March, 2008 - 21:14
Bryson's book on Shakespeare is next on my list of books to read. I won't start anymore until I finish a few of the ones I'm half way though at the moment. I never used to be one to start several books at a time, oh well.
Hide Comments
By: rebecca at 31 January, 2008 - 22:17
I have only just started reading Bill Bryson. Specifically, "A Short History of Nearly Everything," which will keep me busy for a while. He must be a great researcher as well as author.
Thanks for another recommendation!
Hide Comments
By: George at 6 March, 2008 - 14:11
Hey Rebecca
I must confess I have not read that one but have heard it on audio book format 3 times now. It's brilliant! I have a sneaky suspicion that the audio format might be better in this case. The reader, who's name escapes me now, is brilliant. Enjoy the read.
George
Hide Comments
By: roryangus at 26 June, 2008 - 20:45
I just did a quick search on Amazon and there is a CD version that is read by Bill. Did the narrator have an American accent by the way?
Here are the relevant links...
Amazon - http://www.amazon.com/Short-History-Nearly-Everything/dp/055215072X/ref=...
Wiki - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bill_Bryson
Keep well and for the record, given that the most of the voting universe is science illiterate, the book is a really great introduction to some big topics.
Hide Comments