Reading

This illustrated pocket history spans 145 million years, exploring Reading’s evolution through its geography, communities, and significant events. It highlights the town's rich past and invites readers to shape its future.

Reading is an illustrated pocket history that spans an impressive 145 million years in just 84 pages. It begins with the geological formation of the region, setting the stage for the historical narrative that follows. The book explores how Reading's location at the confluence of the Thames and Kennet rivers has influenced its development over the centuries. This natural landscape has not only shaped the town's physical characteristics but also the lives of its inhabitants throughout various historical periods.

The narrative delves into the lives of Reading's prehistoric communities, medieval societies, and industrial ancestors, highlighting their interactions with the land and each other. One intriguing fact presented is the likely origin of Reading's name, which is thought to come from an Anglo-Saxon settlement meaning the place of the people of the red one. Despite the absence of physical remnants from this settlement, the book emphasizes the significance of these early communities in laying the groundwork for the town's future.

As the story unfolds, readers are invited to reflect on the myriad events that have shaped Reading's identity, including migrations, invasions, and cultural transformations. The book illustrates how these elements have intertwined to create a rich tapestry of history that continues to influence the town today. By understanding Reading's past, readers can appreciate its unique character and contribute to the ongoing narrative of this remarkable place.