This is a wide-ranging and scholarly overview of maps and map-making. Starting by putting maps and map-collecting in their historical context, the author goes on to write about design, printing, regional mapping, the formation of the Ordnance Survey in Britain, atlases and marine charts. There is even a chapter on cartographical oddities (for example, playing-card maps), a section on further reading and a comprehensive index).

At just over 100 pages, this isn't a long book, but it packs a lot into a small space. For admirers of the cartographer's art, this is an intersting and enlightening read. ( )