Hi all<BR><BR>Has anyone read this book? I am intrigued, but it's 800-900 pages and my time is a little limited now...<BR><BR>what did you think of it?<BR><BR>thanks!<BR><BR>beth

Haven't read it, but the book has garnered some decent reviews. Keep in mind, though, that it's 800+ pages long and is essentially a compilation of anecdotes, with no original research by the author. Still, it might be a decent read, and something that could productively occupy your time and help turn your attention away from your immediate personal issues. You say your time is a bit limited now, but you seem to be logged onto the site 24-7. Buy the book, read it, and share your impressions with us if you find it to be a useful source of travel-related information.

Beth, I guess I view books differently than you do, since I don't consider the buying of a book a commitment to reading it all. I've owned this book since it came out in hard cover and have dipped into it a number of times. Along with Porter's "London:a Social History", I think it belongs on the bookshelf of any lover of London.

Thanks Ron... funny, if you saw my shelves or knew my buying habits you would know I agree with your philosophy - I buy books ten at a time with the clear intent to reading them all but usually find ten more to buy before I've finished what I bought (trying to get better about that, without much success). usually I end up doing just what you said...<BR><BR>Sue - you are SO wrong about 'lately' - I have ALWAYS been logged in 24/7 to this site and have been for the past 2+ years - I'm usually just a lurker/reader though. the past month I have actually been logged in quite significantly less, just much much much more vocal about it, when I am online. (I've been on pretty much constant travel in the month since I told my boss I wanted to take the money and run..)<BR><BR>thanks for the input! I almost bought this but decided to try to finish the others I bought before diving in...

Beth,<BR><BR>I have had Ackroyd's "London" at my bedside for several months now. I can't imagine reading it straight through, but it's good for a "dip" now and then. <BR><BR>Some chapters are definitely more interesting than others. I agree with ron; it's a worthwhile purchase. And like you, I only read about a 10th of the books I buy straight through, but like having them around.

Any true Anglophile should own a copy. I have it next to my volumes of "Pepys Diary" which I am slowly working my way through.