Not just for children! And a Giveaway!

Always on the lookout for a great book about London, I was thrilled to get a review copy of The Bumper Book of London: Everything You Need to Know about London and More by Becky Jones and Clare Lewis.  This colorful and fascinating book is marketed as a children's book, but it's bursting with bright colors and fun information that makes it a great read for all ages!

The book begins with some general facts about London, then it is divided into chapters covering the chronological periods in London's history, beginning with Roman London and going through the present (Modern London).  Every section is filled with historical facts, words used during that time, rulers, and things to see from that time period that still exist in London.  For example, from the Saxon/Viking period, you can still see the Coronation Stone of the Saxon Kings at Kingston Town Hall, the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle in the British Library, and Sutton Hoo treasures at the British Museum.

After the historical portions of the book, there are sections devoted to various aspects of life in London including sport, food, transport, the River Thames, animals, streets, and so on. 

Every page uses colorful lettering and fonts, and there are also numerous illustrations done by children which help to enliven the facts.

Illustration of what was lost during
the Great Fire of London

I learned many interesting and unusual things from reading this book.  For instance, there is a Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Office, currently filled by Larry the Cat.  Larry has his own Twitter account to keep everyone up to date on his activities (although distressingly, not much mouse abatement work is mentioned!).  There are also yummy recipes (including one for "London Cheesecake" that includes no cheese!), Fast Facts and a recommended list of "London's Best" which includes such lists as "Best Books Set in Victorian London" and (more importantly) the locations of the "Best Cake Shops" to be found there today.

More information is also at the book's website http://bit.ly/y3I5Xk and at Becky and Clare's website http://www.adventurewalksforfamilies.co.uk/

I have one copy of the wonderful Bumper Book of London to give away to a lucky reader!  To enter, just leave a comment stating your favorite tourist attraction in London (one you've visited or hope to visit one day).  Be sure and leave an email address in your comment or Blogger profile so I can contact you if you're the winner!  Open only to those residing in the US.  Please leave your comment by March 15.  The winner will be chosen by random.org and I will email the winner.  The winner will have 72 hours to respond, or I'll have to choose another winner.  Good luck!

Disclaimer:  I received a review and a giveaway copy of The Bumper Book of London from 45th Parallel Communications

Final verdict on The Bumper Book of London:  Five Gherkins, for being a totally engrossing book about London filled with facts and fun!