This book is a history of private life, written by Bill Bryson. It tells the story of how we have lived in our homes over the centuries, and examines the changes that have taken place in domestic life as society has changed. From ancient Greece to contemporary America, Bryson charts the evolution of home design and dĆ©cor, technology and entertainment, food and drink, manners and morals. He offers witty insights into all aspects of private life – from sex to shopping to childbirth – while also exploring broader historical themes such as architecture, identity formation, social norms etc.
For who is this book for ?
At Home is for anyone with an interest in history and the evolution of private life. Bryson’s engaging, easy-to-read style makes this a perfect book for general readers, while his wealth of knowledge and humorous anecdotes will also appeal to more dedicated historians.
Pros :
- Bryson is a master at making dry subjects interesting and entertaining.
- This book provides a comprehensive overview of the history of private life, from ancient Greece to contemporary America.
- Bryson’s witty insights make for enjoyable reading.
Cons :
- The author’s humour may not be to everyone’s taste
- The book is quite dense and contains a lot of information
- It may be difficult to follow for those who are not interested in history
Learn more about the author
Bill Bryson is a renowned travel writer and non-fiction author who has written several bestsellers, including A Short History of Nearly Everything. He is a witty commentator on all aspects of private life, and his books are enjoyed by readers of all ages.
Reader Reviews
“A witty and insightful history of home life from ancient Greece to the present day.”
“At Home is an absolutely amazing book. I could not put it down! Bryson’s wit and humor make learning about the history of private life enjoyable and entertaining. This would be a great read for anyone interested in history, architecture, or just learning more about how we as humans have lived throughout the ages.”
“Very enjoyable read – Bryson has a way of making even the most mundane subjects interesting. This book provides a fascinating overview of the changing nature of private life over time.”
“This wonderful book by Bill Bryson is a history of private life from ancient Greece to the present. It is full of witty insights into all aspects of our lives, including sex, shopping and childbirth. Bryson also explores broader historical themes such as architecture and social norms. I highly recommend it!”