Books Like...
'Under Another Sky: Journeys in Roman Britain' by Charlotte Higgins is a captivating blend of travel narrative, Roman history exploration, and literary musings. The book follows Higgins and her boyfriend as they traverse Roman Britain's sites, delving into the history, artifacts, and people connected to this ancient era. Higgins weaves together stories of eccentric antiquarians, reflections on the impact of Roman presence on Britain's towns and countryside, and personal experiences of visiting monumental sites like Hadrian's Wall and various castles. Her prose is described as clever, clear, and natural, creating a compelling narrative that combines erudition and enthusiasm on every page.
The book also delves into the cultural and historical significance of Britain's Roman past, reflecting on how the Romans shaped the country's architecture, culture, and history. Higgins' exploration is not just a geographical journey but a deep dive into the lasting legacy of Roman influence on Britain, sparking a sense of discovery and enthusiasm for this often overlooked part of British history. Through her engaging writing style and meticulous research, Higgins brings to life the complexities and richness of Roman Britain, making the reader eager to explore the sites and stories she uncovers.
If you liked Under Another Sky: Journeys in Roman Britain, here are the top 3 books to read next:
- #1
'From the Holy Mountain: A Journey Among the Christians of the Middle East' by William Dalrymple is a travelogue that follows the author's exploration of the Middle East in the mid-1990s, tracing the path of a 6th-century monk through Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, Israel, Palestine, and Egypt. Dalrymple delves into the lives of ordinary people, particularly monks and Christians, comparing their situations in the 1990s to those of Christians who resided in the region 1,500 years prior. The book offers insights into the history of Christianity in the Middle East, shedding light on the challenges faced by Christian communities in the region over centuries.
Dalrymple's narrative skillfully intertwines vivid touristic descriptions with historical accounts of Christianity under various empires and modern rule, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Middle East. The author's journey uncovers the decline of native Christian populations in the Holy Lands, accentuating the complexities of religious coexistence amidst geopolitical conflicts and societal changes in the region.
We passed a monastic fishing boat surrounded by a halo of seagulls. Opposite me, three large monks in ballooning cassocks sat sipping cappuccinos under an icon of the Virgin; over their grey moustache... - #2
In "City of Djinns: A Year in Delhi" by William Dalrymple, the author takes readers on a journey through the complex and rich history of Delhi. Through his experiences living in the city for a year, Dalrymple intertwines personal anecdotes with historical accounts, exploring the layers of Delhi's past from the Mughal era to British rule, and even further back to ancient times. The book delves into the diverse cultures, traditions, and characters that have shaped Delhi, creating a narrative that is both informative and emotionally captivating.
Dalrymple's writing style in "City of Djinns" is a blend of wit, humor, and deep historical research. He skillfully weaves together the present-day experiences of living in Delhi with the city's tumultuous past, offering readers a multi-dimensional view of the vibrant metropolis. Through encounters with locals, exploration of ancient sites, and reflections on the city's evolution, Dalrymple creates a narrative that is both engaging and insightful, painting a vivid portrait of Delhi through the ages.
Inside we were greeted by a scene from Great Expectations: a thick pall of dust on every surface, a family of sparrows nesting in the blinds and a fleece of old cobwebs — great arbours of spider silk ... - #3
'A Short Walk in the Hindu Kush' by Eric Newby is a humorous and entertaining travel adventure that follows the journey of the author and his friend, Hugh Carless, as they embark on a mission to climb Mir Samir in Afghanistan. The book captures the essence of British amateur travelers from a bygone era, showcasing their can-do determination, casual planning, and self-deprecating humor. Despite being grossly underprepared, Newby and Carless set off with only a few days of climbing practice in Wales and a lighthearted attitude, leading to a series of misadventures and challenges in the rugged terrain of the Hindu Kush region.
Newby's writing style in 'A Short Walk in the Hindu Kush' is characterized by wry, self-deprecating humor that offers insight into the eccentric characters encountered during the journey and vivid descriptions of the Afghan wilderness. The book provides a mix of naivety, modesty, and self-assurance bordering on arrogance, typical of the British explorers of that era. Despite the comical tone, Newby also delves into the cultural context of the places visited, offering an amusing yet informative narrative of their escapades in Northeast Afghanistan in the mid-1950s.
With all the lights on and the door shut to protect us from the hellish draught that blew up the backstairs, the fitting-room was like an oven with mirrors. There were four of us jammed in it: Hyde-Cl...