Part travel writing, part inspirational walking guide, with 15 maps to serve walkers with a historical leaning. An attractive hardback with Bayeux tapestry design cover. Bookseller In his other life, Mallalieu is an expert on watercolours and the salesroom writer for Country Life, but he clearly also has a talent for travel writing. He deftly weaves the account of his own trip through a contemporary landscape with the story of Harold and his army, and the text is rich in historical detail. His approach to the topics he covers is winning and catholic, as he examines everything from stately homes to football chants, power stations to full english breakfasts. He illustrates his book with some quirky hand-drawn maps, as well as Old English magic charms, snatches of poetry and even recipes, to create an engaging and rather original portrait of England and Englishness. Sunday Telegraph An enjoyable and unusual look at medieval and modern Britain through the eyes of an author who writes in a lively and accessible style. Huon's honesty throughout the walk makes this a fascinating read, and following his account of the walk is almost like listening to a friend talk. www.suite101.com Reading this book is like going off for a week with a favourite uncle who can sing, drink and charm a smile from both a melancholic duke and a moody hoodie, while entertaining you with passionate stories about our island's history. Country Life An original and very readable account of one man's attempt to learn about the past by exploring the present. TGO: The Great Outdoors A thoughful look at a key moment in history and our changing countryside. WALK magazine Scholarly but very readable and provides a refreshing way of learning more about the history of England that walkers may find particularly appealing. Strider For the historically minded it is the perfect fireside Christmas read. And the index is an entertainment in itself. Guild of Arts Scholars, Dealers and Collectors What really enlivens his book is his sharp and telling eye for the unusual and absurd that he encounters along the way. Evergreen Mallalieu tramps along the fatal route, tracing the past and meditating on the events of a thousand years ago. Historical anecdotes ease the pain of blisters and the roar of traffic to create a warm and personal account. Good Book Guide
