Illustrated Kings and Queens of England

Rating: 4 Stars

I really enjoy much of Ridgway's work and this text is no exception. This is a very quick read, despite covering all the monarchs since my personal fave, Alfred the Great. Ridgway does not waste time, and provides important details - just the facts, without going into personal opinions about aspects of the rulers' lives. This would be a very handy guide and a good resource for those just beginning their studies on the subject, or those who are interested in learning more about various kings and queens, but are a bit intimidated by some of the weighty tomes that cover only the life of one king or queen. What Ridgway also does is take the time to dismiss some of the rumors about these men and women, so those just starting out are not inundated with falsehoods and things that have been factually proven to be incorrect. Each ruler is given two pages, where Ridgway recounts the important dates in the life of that monarch, as well as short biographies and interesting facts. I only wish that I read a physical copy of this book, as I read it on my plain old Kindle. This way I could take advantage of really taking in the beautiful illustrations of the engravings that went along with each. Otherwise, I have no complaints and found this to be a very useful volume.