Brendan’s Alternate Tagline for Sceptred Isle:
Just because they are your favorite doesn’t mean they are everyone else’s.
Quick synopsis:
A look at English royal upheaval in the 14th century.
Fact for Non-History People:
Richard II is credited with either inventing or popularizing the handkerchief.
Fact for History Nerds:
Right before the Black Death arrived, there was already a Great Famine in Northern Europe.
My Take on Sceptred Isle:
Oh, those rascally Plantagenets. Well, specifically Edward I and everyone after him. Helen Carr dives into the 14th century in her book, Sceptred Isle, to look at the kings who seemed to have their personal favorites to the detriment of almost everyone else. Seriously, it is okay to have a best friend but maybe don’t gift them half of your kingdom. Problems solved (or not started in the first place).
Carr’s book is perfect for the person who doesn’t realize how interesting this time period was. It comes in a little under 300 pages of narrative, but it also doesn’t sacrifice insight and characterization. You get to understand Edward II and III along with the eminently unlikable Richard II. (I’m sorry if you are a Richard the Deuce apologist, but I just cannot get on board with that dude.)
Carr’s prose is easy while being detailed. I find with books on Medieval times (not the restaurant) need to make sure to explain who a person is and prove it without making grand personal pronouncements about their character. However, too much detail can lead to extensive tangents that leave you wondering, “Wait, who are we talking about again?” Carr doesn’t fall into this trap, and it makes this book extremely satisfying.
(This book was provided as a review copy by the publisher.)
Verdict:
Fantastic. Buy it here!
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