Peter Quennell (1905–1993)

This well worn volume was published in 1973 and it lacks the more recent PC language
relating to racism, sexism, or animal cruelty.

Though I've never read a reference book straight through, this was interesting enough to continue
from the compelling "Anglo-Saxon Prelude" to the mid-twentieth century.

The range of the enlightening illustrations make the more repetitious or boring entries more lively.

And some of the stronger opinions remain disputable:

"A far finer artist than Hardy, and a much more conscientious and celebrate craftsman was HENRY JAMES..."

...who can be more dismally boring than any of Hardy.

Still, it is a decent reference with fun pictures.… (altro)