Wild Words Newsletter
Get monthly recommendations on all the latest nature writing, heritage and conservation related reads available at Sherlock & Pages
In this captivating exploration, Christopher Somerville, the acclaimed author of 'The January Man', embarks on a personal odyssey through Britain's cathedrals. Initially viewing these grand edifices as immutable bastions of tradition, Somerville's journey reveals a millennia-long saga of constant transformation and upheaval.
With his characteristic wit and insight, Somerville uncovers the rich tapestry of human stories woven into these 'ships of stone'. From the monarchs and bishops who commissioned them to the masons who breathed life into their soaring arches, and the countless labourers who toiled and perished in their creation, each tale is masterfully recounted.
As we traverse the length and breadth of Britain, we encounter a cast of colourful characters: roguish saints and holy sinners, prosperous towns growing in the cathedral's shadow, and the modern-day custodians who tend to these magnificent structures. Somerville's keen eye and lyrical prose bring to life the hidden corners and forgotten histories of these ever-voyaging 'Ships of Heaven'.
With the deft touch of a master storyteller, Somerville guides us through the past, present, and uncertain future of Britain's beloved cathedrals. This enthralling narrative is a must-read for history enthusiasts, architecture aficionados, and anyone captivated by the enduring allure of these awe-inspiring monuments.
Book ISBN: | 9780857523655 |
Book Author: | Christopher Somerville |
Book Format: | Paperback / softback |
Book Imprint: | Doubleday |
Book Publisher: | Transworld Publishers Ltd |
Book Dimensions: | 202 x 137 x 23 cm |
Book Publication Date: | 2020-03-19 |
Book Pagination: | 368 pages |
Book Weight: | 266g |
Sherlock & Pages is a little bookshop with a big heart. We are based in Frome, Somerset, England and curate lists of books in the areas we are passionate about – landscape, nature, history, and heritage. In short, the conservation of all we’ve inherited and all we are responsible to pass on. We aim to inspire and be inspired, to form a literary culture of care and passion about this precious planet we call home.
This is a shop where you might find something you haven’t seen before, and we like to think we’ve got something for everyone. We choose each of our books with care and for a reason. This is because our physical store is small but beautifully formed, holding only around 1200 titles at any one time. We try and recreate the feel of the shop wherever we are online, to reflect our niche categories and personality.
We have an active social media presence and aim to share our story with all our friends. The long-term goal is to build a hub for the books and writers we believe in. Who knows where our adventure will lead but by supporting Sherlock & Pages you’re helping us to add a further layer of magic to our little corner of the world. If you haven’t visited our physical store, one day you might just make a literary pilgrimage down to Somerset.
Our tagline is ‘Long Live the Hedgerows’ and our symbol a hibernating dormouse. If you want to support an independent with a unique character and which will share stories with you for years to come, then choose Sherlock & Pages. The world needs bookshops with soul, for they are ‘citadels of light.’
Sherlock & Pages is a little bookshop with a big heart. We are based in Frome, Somerset, England and curate lists of books in the areas we are passionate about – landscape, nature, history, and heritage. In short, the conservation of all we’ve inherited and all we are responsible to pass on. We aim to inspire and be inspired, to form a literary culture of care and passion about this precious planet we call home.
This is a shop where you might find something you haven’t seen before, and we like to think we’ve got something for everyone. We choose each of our books with care and for a reason. This is because our physical store is small but beautifully formed, holding only around 1200 titles at any one time. We try and recreate the feel of the shop wherever we are online, to reflect our niche categories and personality.
We have an active social media presence and aim to share our story with all our friends. The long-term goal is to build a hub for the books and writers we believe in. Who knows where our adventure will lead but by supporting Sherlock & Pages you’re helping us to add a further layer of magic to our little corner of the world. If you haven’t visited our physical store, one day you might just make a literary pilgrimage down to Somerset.
Our tagline is ‘Long Live the Hedgerows’ and our symbol a hibernating dormouse. If you want to support an independent with a unique character and which will share stories with you for years to come, then choose Sherlock & Pages. The world needs bookshops with soul, for they are ‘citadels of light.’