Lightbulb Moments in Human History: From Cave to Colosseum by Scott Edwin Williams
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
What comes to history books, I like those illustrated ones. Those huge encyclopaedia-sized slabs that twist your wrists and choke you under them if read in bed. No world history book crammed mostly with text could make me easily interested.
“Hold my beer,” said Scott Edwin Williams.
If you are the one seeking for quick excitement, jump into the “Finally” paragraph.
Imagine a modern-style telly history prog with their narrators’ colourful language which flows lightly against the scenes and historic landscapes. Add a great bit more wit and humour. Then add some intermissions to break the flow with entertaining interludes of author’s own experiences with written history. Finally, remove the video and add some old-style illustration spiced with comic narrative.
Want your beer back, Mr. Williams?
“Not yet.”
The first part of oncoming series, Lightbulb Moments in Human History: From Cave to Colosseum is not small type, dry narration with cloud of dust floating around. It consists of the flow of big ideas of humankind from prehistoric ape era into Roman inventions. Babylonia, India, China, Mesoamerica, et cetera included. Still, it’s not a straight list of great inventions but rather a book of the ideas that were once born and are still in effect in one form or another, their ramifications echoing around us.
The book is written with professional but also with witty style: The reader might want to check the disclaimer section in introductory part, especially the paragraph titled “Elephant In The Room”(the one where Karen gets her knickers twisted). It is important since it carries that nowadays so important explanation for the wittiness offered in the book. It is well written and the only ones arguing with it will be bored, most vain trolls from under internet bridges.
OK, I believe, I’m tired to hold this beer. Want it back?
“Not yet.”
What adds more spice into this book are the latest findings that topple a lot of old beliefs. Mr. Williams’ sources are numerous(and carefully listed) and data is as fresh as it should be.
Finally, for those seeking excitement the book also includes: Kama Sutra! Vestal Virgins! Gladiators! Ancient spaceships! Bloody murders!
Here’s your beer back, Mr. Williams.
Well done and carry on with the series!
(Lightbulb Moments in Human History: From Cave to Colosseum is bound to be released Feb 2023 but preorders are available at Amazon)
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