Fred L. Pick

Besproken in AQC, jrg.103 ( 1990 ), 1991, p.249 :
“ First published nearly forty years ago, The Pocket History is still the best short introduction to the history and development of world-wide Freemasonry…If I have one small criticism it is that, in dealing with the theories of the origins of Freemasonry, the book is heavily biased towards the transitional theory. I would hope that in the next edition – and there will surely be a 9th edition – reference will be made to the newer theories of an indirect link with operative Masonry. That aside, the book continues to be a standard introduction to, and handy reference on , the broad development of Freemasonry. It is an ideal gift for a new Master Mason who wants to know more about our Art.”… (más)

Besproken in AQC, jrg.103 ( 1990 ), 1991, p.249 :
“ First published nearly forty years ago, The Pocket History is still the best short introduction to the history and development of world-wide Freemasonry…If I have one small criticism it is that, in dealing with the theories of the origins of Freemasonry, the book is heavily biased towards the transitional theory. I would hope that in the next edition – and there will surely be a 9th edition – reference will be made to the newer theories of an indirect link with operative Masonry. That aside, the book continues to be a standard introduction to, and handy reference on , the broad development of Freemasonry. It is an ideal gift for a new Master Mason who wants to know more about our Art.”… (más)

AMT febr. (2000) p.18 :
“Het recentste boekje in deze categorie [van lexicons] was nog ‘The Freemason’s Pocket Reference Book’ van ‘Pick and Knight’. Ondanks de diverse updates die het kreeg, bleef het in wezen een product van zijn tijd, 1955. En het was toegespitst op de Engelse Vrijmetselarij, uiteraard.”
Besproken door J.M.Hamill in AQC, jrg.94 ( 1981 ), 1982, pp.223 en 224 :
“Having been involved professionally in masonic research and the cataloguing of masonic publications for over eleven years I could perhaps be forgiven for not being overwhelmed at the possible publication of a new edition of a standard reference work. How nice to be able to welcome just such an event ! Since its first publication in 1955 the Freemason’s Pocket Reference Book has deservedly earned its place on any list of recommended reading for both the beginner and the scholar. For once the description ‘new edition’ is correct for Bro.Smyth has omitted a number of items from the previous two editions which simply duplicated information readily available in the Book of Constitutions. He has thus made space for the insertion of a large number of new topics, well over 150. Additionally he has revised and brought up to date existing entries in the light of research since the last edition was published. This new version therefore deserves a place not only in the library of a young mason but also in those of brethren who possess either or both of the previous editions.
The success and usefulness of the present publication results, I think, from two things : its wide-ranging content covering masonic terminology, styles and titles, symbolism, customs, regalia, furniture, degrees, rites and orders, biographical and historical notes, etc. ; and from the compiler’s decision, conscious or otherwise, to stick to basic, factual information whenever possible, to give a balanced consensus view where opinions differ, not allowing personal comment or preference to obstrude. It is the simplicity of the definitions and factual information that give this work its deserved popularity.”… (más)