Adam Zamoyski

Advantages: One of the best Polish history books around
Disadvantages: Some areas go into less depth than others

...The English language coverage of Polish history is uneven at best. It often carries a Western bias, and can reduce the turbulent history of the country to stereotypes. However, Adam Zamoyski~{!/~}s book The Polish Way in a major exception. The book details the rich cultural heritage and complex politics of Poland over the past thousand years, from its foundation in the 10th century right up until its recent problems, with a great deal in between. Not many people in the West realise that Poland was once a powerful commonwealth covering almost all of Eastern Europe, and the book goes into great depth about the spectacular rise and dramatic fall of the Polish commonwealth. The military aspect of Polish empire building is also very well covered. Possibly the greatest aspect of this book, however, is its coverage of Poland... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: Loses a rainy day
Disadvantages: If read at bedtime be prepared to have to finish it.

...After reading the first book in the series I had to continue. Not only did this book equal, but in my view surpassed, Hitchhikers Guide. With Adams usual descriptive writing I found myself engrossed from cover to cover (and a few mornings I think the propped open eyes may have been visible). A must read for all Adams fans - do it right now!!! I myself will be rushing out to buy the next one in the series to see if it gets even better, although I do find that hard to believe.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average not helpful

Advantages: Use of humour
Disadvantages: Length

...This book was up to Scott Adams's usual standard, and therefore very funny. Unfortunately, it was a little bit on the long side, and even Adams's brand of humour wears thin by page 300! This is the sort of book that you can pass on to family and friends, and would make a great present. The first part of the book is highly entertaining, and hugely funny, but by the time you are reaching the end of the book, it is getting a little on the boring side. Now that it has been re-released for just £3.99, I would almost certainly buy it.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful