This week, we have:
A new book review by Jodi Taylor for Art Matter by Neil Gaiman
Article in the London Daily News Best selling author takes inspiration from London history!
This week’s History Briefing is about The Great Exhibition at the Crystal Palace: A Landmark Event in Victorian History
A joke from the Silly Sunday thread in the Fans & Readers Facebook group
Be an Early Bird! Early sign-up for next year’s JodiWorld
Win a free subscription worth £50 when you contribute a Guest Post
There’s plenty to read this week and you can see everything new on the blog too. CLICK HERE for the blog.
Book Review: Art Matters by Neil Gaiman
This book review is the very excellent – and, for me, very relevant – Art Matters, by Neil Gaiman and illustrated by Chris Riddell.
I bought this little book – and it is a little book that fits snugly into my hand as if it belongs there – when it first came out, several years ago now, because I always buy everything by Neil Gaiman. Like Terry Pratchett, Jasper Fforde, Ben Aaronovitch and T Kingfisher, everything he writes is a must-have. Half the time I don’t even stop to read the blurb before clicking on ORDER.
I had no idea it would have such an impact on my thinking. From almost the very first words, I felt this book had been written for me.
Best selling author takes inspiration from London history!
Jodi Taylor is the acclaimed author whose bestselling novels have captivated readers worldwide and stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and creativity, writing her first book at the age of 60. Known primarily for her hit series ‘The Chronicles of St. Mary’s’, Taylors rise to literary prominence is an inspirational story of determination and passion for history and storytelling.
London has proved a great inspiration for this talented writer from Whitechapel in ‘A Symphony of Echoes’ to the Great Fire of London and the Crystal Palace Exhibition in ‘No Time Like the Past’ to Westminster Abbey in ‘Lies, Damned Lies and History’ to the Tower of London in ‘Plan for the Worst’.
History and Happenings - click here to view more posts
The Great Exhibition at the Crystal Palace: A Landmark Event in Victorian History
In “No Time Like the Past” Max and the team from St Mary’s Institute of Historical Research jump back to Victorian London and The Great Exhibition at Crystal Palace.
The Great Exhibition held at the Crystal Palace in London in 1851 stands as a pivotal moment in the history of industry, culture, and international relations. Organized by Prince Albert, husband of Queen Victoria, the exhibition showcased the technological prowess and artistic achievements of nations from around the world, leaving an indelible mark on Victorian society and laying the groundwork for future world's fairs.
The idea for the Great Exhibition emerged from discussions among members of the Royal Society and the Society of Arts, who sought to organize an event that would celebrate the advancements of the industrial age and promote international cooperation. Prince Albert, inspired by the success of similar exhibitions in Europe, championed the idea and assumed a leading role in its planning and execution.
To house the exhibition, a ground-breaking structure known as the Crystal Palace was designed by architects Joseph Paxton and Charles Fox. Constructed of iron and glass, the Crystal Palace was a marvel of engineering innovation, spanning over 1,800 feet (550 meters) in length and rising to a height of 108 feet (33 meters). Its innovative design allowed for maximum natural light to illuminate the interior, creating a breath-taking display of the exhibits housed within.
Enjoy a joke from the Silly Sunday thread from the Facebook Fans and Readers group.
Thanks to Katie Kawerski for this one…
Theives stole a case of Viagra. Cops are looking for a gang of hardened criminals!!
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Guest posts: Do you want to share something on Jodi's Substack blog?
It could be about historical costumes, places or something for Controversy Corner. Those are just a few ideas but others are welcome. The articles are usually about 500 words and need at least one picture.
If your article is published you'll get a free annual subscription worth £50. This entitles you to the writing masterclass, chat room, and free eBook of the Reading Companion and History Briefing for Just One Damned Thing After Another.
Please email Hazel at hazel@rushford.ltd with your ideas. The article will appear on the blog and in the Friday digest email.