Writing a history of such a wide subject as this is an achievement in itself, but to condense it into 266 pages is an accomplishment worthy of applauding.

To do this, and keep the history with an ever flowing meaningful and understandable text is an outstanding triumph.

John Sutherland knows how to keep our interest concentrated on the development of literature, keeping our interest constantly on the move and our mind wanting to know more about the greatest literature in the world.

He resists the temptation to expand too far on every point he makes, thus avoiding swamping and destroying the desire to know more.

So he has created in us a thirst for a deeper knowledge of the topic, leaving us with a treasure trail that will take us to the heights of the subject

. This is a book worthy of being on our shelves from where it can guide us on an enchanted journey littered with magical words.