I bought this book looking for something basic. I was hoping for a quick read that would give me the basics so that I could understand the more in-depth Oxford History of Britain that assumes familiarity with England that I didn't have. The very basics were in here, so it met my lowest expectations.

The book, though, is almost 1/4 pictures; pictures of politicians, kings, factory workers and knights fill at least half of every other page. Since the book is only 225 pages or so, I knew it wasn't going to be thorough. I had a feeling, though, that the author's annoying habit of mentioning people once by name with no introduction or background and then forgetting them for the rest of the book was probably due to his need to make room for pictures of medeival churches.

This is a fine brief book. I read it in about four hours even with flipping back to maps and searching the index occasionally to see if someone had ever been introduced before. Before ordering it make sure you actually want the fastest run through English history possible. Probably better for those needing to refresh what they learned a long time ago than for people hoping for a starting block for the subject.

This has been a great introduction to a subject I've always been fascinated with, but have been intimidated by until now. A worthwhile read!