Loathsome London : Book Review

"Loathsome London" by Terry Deary is a captivating exploration of the darker side of London's history. As a renowned author of children's historical non-fiction, Deary does a fantastic job of presenting the grim, disgusting, and often overlooked aspects of the city's past in an informative and entertaining manner.

The book takes readers on a journey through different time periods, exposing the unsavory aspects of each era. Deary fearlessly describes the filth, crime, and disease that plagued London, painting a vivid and sometimes shocking picture of what life was like for its inhabitants.

What sets "Loathsome London" apart is Deary's witty and engaging writing style. His inclusion of little-known facts, anecdotes, and humorous rhymes adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the reading experience. It is clear that Deary has conducted extensive research, as he presents a wealth of information in a concise yet comprehensive manner.

One standout feature of the book is the inclusion of illustrations by Martin Brown. These whimsical and detailed drawings bring historical characters and events to life, enriching the reader's understanding and enjoyment of the book. The combination of Deary's engaging writing and Brown's illustrations creates a visually appealing experience that immerses readers in the world of old London.

Overall, "Loathsome London" is an educational and entertaining book that sheds light on the darker aspects of the city's history. Terry Deary's engaging writing style, along with Martin Brown's delightful illustrations, make this book an excellent choice for readers interested in uncovering the hidden and grim side of London's past.

What are readers saying?

Loathsome London by Terry Deary is a captivating book that takes readers on a historical journey through the darker side of the city. Deary's unique perspective on London's less glamorous past is filled with captivating stories and lesser-known facts, making it an intriguing and informative read.

Readers have praised Terry Deary for his engaging and witty writing style in Loathsome London. They appreciate how he manages to make history interesting and accessible, bringing the pages to life with fascinating anecdotes and lesser-known details about London's infamous past. Deary's storytelling ability is a highlight of the book, immersing readers in the history he presents.

Another aspect that reviewers admire is Deary's meticulous research. They commend his diligent approach to uncovering forgotten tales and revealing the hidden truths of London's unpleasant history. Readers find this attention to detail impressive and enlightening, as Deary sheds light on various aspects of London's past that are often overlooked.

The structure of Loathsome London is also highly praised by reviewers. They appreciate how the book is divided into chapters that cover different aspects of the city's loathsome history, making it easy to read and follow. This structure allows readers to delve into the topics that interest them most.

Furthermore, reviewers note that while Deary explores the darker side of London, he does so with a touch of humor. Rather than overwhelming readers with grim tales, he injects wit and sarcasm into his writing, striking a balance between the macabre and a light-hearted tone. This combination of humor and darkness has been well-received by readers, as it makes the book both informative and entertaining.

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