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Books Related to St Pancras Station Simon Bradley - ISBN: 1861979517
beautiful writing, impressive scope - Rated
This is one of the most beautifully written books I have ever read. Most novel writers cannot use language this fluidly.
I think it a huge shame that mostly only people interested in architecture or railways will buy this book. I believe almost anyone would find this book interesting. The book provides a fascinating insight into the social and economic state of England in the middle of Victoria's reign and at the height of imperial grandeur.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough. It is easily worth 6 stars!
Wonderful, erudite and witty - Rated
Contrary to the other peevish remarks of the online Amazon reviewers, this sparkling book is a wonderful read. Highly recommended.
Architecturally Interesting but Not as Good as Eulogies on Cover - Rated
The first third of the book is given over to a scholarly treatment of the derivation of the particular Italian gothic style employed by George Gilbert Scott to build the Midland Grand Hotel, the magnificent frontage to St. Pancras Station. The philosophical roles of Pugin and Ruskin are examined and details provided of the life and the architectural activities of Scott; some might think this the long route towards talking about the station per se. The design and construction of the train shed by William Henry Barlow is described very well. The almost unique (at the time) single unsupported arch construction is explained and compared with that used on other major railway termini. Interesting facts such as the spacing of the cast iron pillars in the undercroft being related to beer barrel size are fascinating and just the sort of detail enthusiasts will be looking for. The interior and Victorian usage of the hotel are described well. There then follows brief notes on the Midland Railway and changes which the railways wrought in society, the latter being of dubious relevance. A perfunctory description of the station resurrection is provided. This is an interesting book but leaves the reader feeling short-changed with regard to a direct treatment of the station and its renovation. It does not quite live up to the eulogies printed on the cover; it is not a masterpiece nor fabulous. The black and white printed illustrations are of poor quality.
Disappointing - Rated
Whilst this book has a nice glossy cover with good reviews, it is spoilt by the very poor quality illustrations which do not do justice to this wonderful building. All of the 'pictures' are merely black and white images printed in the same form as the text, with no true glossy photographs. The diagrams are almost unreadable - a magnifying glass may help. Over-rated by the reviewers, and over-priced.
A fascinating book - Rated
This is so much more than a book about a single railway station and its hotel. Architecture, engineering, and the synergy between the two, social history, railways throughout the UK, stations throughout the world. It's one of the most interesting books I've read in a long time!
