so-soDecent read. It's good as a broad introduction to the history of the Normans. The book covers several different historical events, such as William the Conqueror, the Norman conquest of Sicily, and the 1st Crusade. However, I feel that the author tries to cover too much material in too short of a book. As a result, several events aren't covered in as much detail as they could've been.
“Beginning as a medical drink for the elite, coffee became the favored modern stimulant of the blue-collar worker during his break, the gossip starter in middle-class kitchens, the romantic binder for wooing couples, and the sole bitter companion of the lost soul. Coffeehouses have provided places to plan revolutions, write poetry, do business, and meet friends”.
pickIn addition to the physical history, Roland also discusses how notebooks were used throughout history - in accounting, art, natural history, writing, etc. and various ways notebooks were perceived. I.e., in the 1200s when clergy refused to use anything other than parchment being suspicious of paper's novelty and its infidel and recycled origins: “one opponent fulminated against the idea that the word of God could be written on menses-stained rag.“
so-soThis was okay to listen to, but I felt myself being disinterested and zoning out during other parts. I think part of my issue was that it was dated- so much has happened since the Obama administration. #ReadingOceania2024
pickVery interesting perspective on the history of the animosity between the West and Islam. Ibrahim lays out the most important battles between the two and how they shaped the world
The question that sparked this entire book.
#nonfiction #history
A 1 sentence summary
#nonfiction #history
My journey begins. #nonfiction #history
