It took me about seven weeks to read this book, but I learned so much. While tedious at times, I am glad to find a fascinating book on history. I have a new appreciation for present day hygiene, medical treatment and so much more. I look forward to reading more books by Bryson.

My physician recommended Bill Bryson. I checked out one of his travel books but it just didn't grab me. This one was an interesting read. An incredible amount of research must have gone into his description of every room in his home, an old rectory, and all of the contents of each room. Amazing.

This book should be required readiing for anyone seeking a broader understanding of just about anything, including health and history. I can't think of a more enjoyable way to acquire this information.

Quintessential Bryson, very funny and very informative.

If you have ever wondered how the people in those British country houses really lived, this book will answer those questions and more. Using his Norfolk, England, Victorian rectory as a starting point, Bryson takes us on a room-by-room tour. Each room becomes an entry point into the vast history of everything and anything, of architecture, electricity, food preservation, epidemics, laundry and toilets; and of the brilliant, creative and often eccentric minds that developed them. Bryson mixes gently mocking humour with generous helpings of curiosity and an eye for oddities. For your Consideration: Trying to read the book in one sitting will be overwhelming. Best sip it, one room at a time.

Read September 2011

If you are a trivia buff, then this book is for you. Author goes back in time to relate the origins of every room in your house including communities, undergarments. Did you ever wonder where the expression IN THE LIMELIGHT came from? You`ll find out in this book plus many more origins of common saying. I now have 5 years of dinner conversation starters with strangers!

jhgg

of the many histories of domestic life this must be the easiest to read--full of interesting asides history of private life, particularly victorian

What a page-turner! I loved this book. Such an interesting history of private life, filled with fascinating facts - and a surprisingly light read. I came away interested in learning more about a whole pack of topics, and some good reccos on further reading (he gives kudos to a few books he leaned on for source material). I would highly recommend reading this if you're interested in social history.