A while back I did a post on Shire Books and the historical guides they publish. They saw my blog entry and offered to send me some of their books for review. "Oh, yes, please!" I said. Before I knew it, copies of Picture Postcards, British Postcards of the First World War, and The Victorians & Edwardians at Work had arrived in my mailbox.
Each has a very pleasing size, perfect for tucking into a bag for easy reference or pleasure reading. The newer book designs with perfect binding and the half-and-half covers are so superior in my eye to the older versions that, although Picture Postcards is an excellent book, I just can't enjoy it as much as the other two. Plus, I can't ever find it on my shelf due to its lack of a spine.
I learned a lot from each of the books, which only drives home further the importance of letter {and postcard} writing. It is physical documentation of our lives. Without the cards showing the women working the coal buckets, the knowledge of their inclusion in that industry may have been lost.
I feel confident recommending these books to anyone. Not only are they informative, they're beautiful. They make a handsome inclusion on any letter-lovers {or other collectors, as they offer so many wide-ranging titles} shelves. Even cats like them.
How lovely of them to send you copies. I was in acharity shop at the weekend and was very excited to pic up 'Spinning and Spinning Wheels', 'Sailing Barges' and most exciting 'Old Farm Tools' which is as early as Shire Album Number 4! Such lovely imagery in each. Great post!
Posted by: Jill Wignall | May 05, 2010 at 11:45 AM
Wow they look like great books. I'll have to put them on my wishlist!
Posted by: Krissy | May 06, 2010 at 12:04 AM