Peter Dazeley

London Explored by Peter Dazeley (photography) and Mark Daly is an attractive coffee table type book that can serve, depending on the reader, as a wish list, a nostalgic recollection, and/or just a fun book to read and enjoy the photography.

In my trips to London I did not take in very many of these even though I was often in the neighborhoods, so this is part nostalgia and part pure enjoyment. I don't know that I'll be visiting again so it is less of a wish list for me.

I think even those who live in or near London can get a lot of enjoyment from this book. Having lived in several cities that have many sights to offer I know that I was constantly learning about some place new. Or, just as often, learned interesting information about a place I knew. I picture this book doing that for residents of London as well.

The photographs are engaging, some are what one might expect of a large sight but others are far more nuanced, capturing small features or unique angles. These, for me, are the ones that would compel me to visit.

Highly recommended for those who enjoy attractive books that offer interesting information. In this case I don't think how often, or for how long, one has been in London makes a difference, it just changes how you appreciate the book.

Reviewed from a copy made available by the publisher via NetGalley.… (más)

London Theatres (New Edition) by Michael Coveney is a beautiful book that highlights many of the great theatres of London.

As someone from a long way away, the USA, this is a wonderful way to experience to at least some degree the beauty of these structures. Only one of my trips to London included going to the theatre and the one I went to is not included, so this book is a lot less expensive (though admittedly less fun) than making enough trips to visit each one.

I think what I most enjoyed, even more than the pictures, was the descriptions and history of each. Coupled with the images each theatre becomes a very real place for the reader. Speaking of the photographs, I thought there was a wonderful mix of the broad views (from the stage or from the back toward the stage) with details. Those pictures of the smaller details are the things that can often be missed even by a frequent theatregoer.

This book should appeal to both fans of the theatre as well as readers interested in architecture and photography.

Reviewed from a copy made available by the publisher via NetGalley.… (más)

***This book was reviewed for Quarto Publishing via Netgalley

Coveney’s London Theatres takes you on a photographic tour amongst some of the most beautiful of the theatres gracing London streets. There are eight chapters, showcasing some forty-five theatres. Among them are the Covent Garden Opera House, the Lyceum, Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, and the Savoy. There’s a richness of culture and history tucked in these pages. Information is given for each theatre, along with funny stories about plays and actors that have graced the various stages.

Full of gorgeous pictures, and stuffed with all manner of theatre history and trivia, this book is perfect for theatre or photography lovers.

📚📚📚📚… (más)