Customer Reviews
Christian propaganda? - By: Mr. I. A. R. Pollard, 05 Jul 2008 
I absolutely agree with the majority of the reviewers of this charming book; it is a fantastic way to present history to children. Enough has been said about that, but not enough has been said about the cringeworthy pro-Christian message that laces some of the chapters. I found it quite tasteless; it absolutely glosses over some of the atrocities of the early Christian church. Some of the revisionism is simply astonishing.
Parents trying to bring up their childin a balanced way should point out to their children that, just like the author suggests "there probably wasn't a wizard called Merlin who livedin fairyland", there probably wasn't "a man called Jesus who was the son of God" either.
Truthful!! - By: MightyBoosh, 26 Sep 2007 
Our Island Story by Henrietta Elizabeth Marshall was first publishedin 1905. This children's history of Britain , from the time of the Romans to the death of Queen Victoria, became an instant classic. Beautifully written, with the narrative sweep of the best story-tellers, Our Island Story went through many editions & remained one of the most popular one-volume histories of Britain up until its final editionin 1953. Leading historians of the present day like Lady Antonia Fraser & Andrew Roberts have testified to the effect that this book had on them by igniting a passionate love of historyin young minds through its thrilling narrative.
Fierce struggle and high intrigue, magic and poisoned daggers, and a queen who defied the norm... - By: Tabby, 12 Apr 2007 It looks more like a history book than anything else, but as soon as I started reading "Our Island Story", I was fascinated. Combining English history with folklore & fairytales, & with a narrative voice so homely that you immediately envision biscuits & milk by a quaint fireplace, this book is charming from the beginning.
As a young girl raised on Hans Christian Anderson & The Brothers Grimm, I've come to expect a lot from my fairy-tales, & the accounts of Merlin & Arthur, Boadicea, & the Civil War are dramatic & moving, & it infuses the characters & dates taughtin schools with feelings & emotions, provides history with a sense of humanity. And the pictures - vibrant & engaging - provided an entertaining accompaniment. I'm sixteen & I'min love with this book. The little children I babysit (7 & 9) were as interested when I read them an excerpt the other day. What more recommendation does it need?!
Buy it!!! - By: Jay Morovski, 09 Mar 2007 Our Island Story is truly exceptional. I remember my grandfather reading me this book when I was younger, & being fascinated by what is truly a great narrative of British history. Now reading it to my friend's children, both they (and I!) feel the same. History is suddenly exciting; even the TV is less attractive!! What is more, this new edition has been supplemented with brilliant illustrations that really brings the book alivein their minds. I can only say, buy it!
A sumptuous new edition - By: Analisa Vanderbilt, 07 Mar 2007 Even if you've already got the hardback edition of Our Island Story, this new paperback version truly is a keepsake worth buying. The publishers have really put the icing on the cake with this edition by taking a series of glorious paintings from the Palace of Westminster to illustrate H.E Marshall's magical retelling of history. These surprisingly sharp & colourful reproductions will undoubtedly delight children & adults alike with their sumptuous detail.
