‘Writers’ London’ is written by Carrie Kania and Alan Oliver, with photographs from a range of sources, and published in paperback by ACC Art Books. The book is a guide to the city’s literary people and places and is part of a series from the publisher, exploring London culture – joined by Vinyl London, Art London, Rock n Roll London and London Peculiars.
Many of the greatest books ever written can trace their origins back to London and a walk in the city can be a walk in the footsteps of Charles Dickens, Mary Shelley, Ian Fleming, Zadie Smith and other critically acclaimed and widely read authors. Some of London’s pubs, restaurants and bookshops frequented by authors are still in business today. Literary tourists might also visit the locations of their favourite novels. Yet other spots with bookish links have been lost to history, but may be marked by a blue plaque; statue or museum of the author’s work. Armed with this book, the reader can start to discover all of the other books of the capital – uncovering some of the city’s own stories along the way.
What I thought of the bookok
As a librarian, I was hugely looking forward to getting my hands on ‘Writers’ London’ and planning a trip around the capital to visit some of the streets, cafés and memorials mentioned within it. For now, the trip will have to wait, but the book has certainly given me something to look forward to.
The last book I read in this series -‘Rock n Roll London’ – was divided into four sections relating to the events which happened at the location (Life & Death, recordings etc.). Each section was then split into areas of London, before the events were listed. I found this format confusing and it meant that some entries were almost duplicated across sections. Happily, this has been rectified in ‘Writers’ London’. The book is just divided into seven areas of London – Central, North West, North, East, South, South West and West – and interesting properties are detailed according to their address. Entries are either given under an author’s name or the name of the property if more than one author has links to it. This will be much more helpful for the reader hoping to plan a tour around areas of the capital with literary connections – although you may need to cross districts if visiting all the places linked to one author. The photography – although used sparingly – is good quality, varied and shows both authors and some of the spots discussed in the guide. I was particularly struck by the ability of the gentlemen readers to ‘keep calm and carry on browsing’ in the Blitz damaged library of Holland House in Kensington. It is positive to see that the best bits of the format have been kept, and other parts have been improved upon as the series develops. I’d still recommend an A-Z of London or map app to be used alongside, to get the best from the book.
The most interesting pages for me came at the beginning of, and between, sections of this book. Each area of London has a ‘Suggested reading’ list attached – either books by authors with links to this area, or set in the area. I thought this was a great addition which would really give a traveller a flavour of the place they were going to visit. Then, notable bookshops and museums are detailed for each district, with opening hours and other useful information.
Between sections are pages on London’s literary memorials, lost bookshops & journals and the cemeteries & prisons with creative connections.
Similar to the other titles in the series, it is the depth and range of the research and information which is the greatest strength of ‘Writers’ London’. A mix of classic and contemporary authors are included, with details about their writing craft, collaborations, social habits and personal lives. I’m sure that even the most avid reader will learn something new about the capital’s authors and literary institutions. If you are a book lover, ‘Writers’ London’ has something for you, whether you’re dipping into it at home for interest, or using it to work your way around the literary city.
How much is the book and how can you buy it?
The paperback with flaps edition of ‘Writers’ London’ by Carrie Kania and Alan Oliver retails for £15.00. It can be purchased from ACC Art Books via this link.
About the Authors
Based first in New York and now in London, Carrie Kania has a long history in the publishing industry. She lives with her husband Ash, their dog Foxy and a lot of books in Soho.
When Alan Oliver is not reading, he can be found creating bespoke handwoven rugs. He lives in South London with his dog Delilah and a lot of looms.
About the book
Title: Writers’ London
Author: Carrie Kania and Alan Oliver
Publisher: ACC Art Books
ISBN: 978-1788840460
Trim Size: 210mm x 150mm
Pages: 240 pages, including 20 colour and 17 black & white photographs
Review by: Sharon Corbally
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Book Review: Rock ‘n’ Roll London by Tony Barrell
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* We were given a copy of the book in return for a feature. All opinions are our own.
8 comments
Thats really nice book to read. Thanks
It is indeed, I enjoyed it
great review. So helpful in helping me decide what to read. I really appreciate it.
So glad to hear that Melissa
I like the review. The book also has beautiful graphics that readers will appreciate. I miss doing this kind of review.
Hope you get a chance to read this book
Writers’ London’ by Carrie Kania and Alan Oliver sounds like a great read! I love reading your detailed book reviews 🙂
Thank you, glad you enjoyed it