Two different approaches to 1066 etc., each good in its
way, appehr in Battle 1066, by Brigadier C. N. Barclay (Dent, 21s.), and The Field of Selllac, by Allen Vanbrugh (Dobson, 15s.). Brigadier Barclay's serious study is the work of a military historian, but far from dry. His writing, buoytd up and balanced by intelli- gent thinking, brings political as well as mili- tary situations into a clear light. Mr Vanbrugh's book, cast as a novel in the good nineteenth- century canon, showing the entwined destinies of two boys, one on either side, will appeal to most other children, and to many adults as well.
It is comforting to note that the eyes of young people are still being directed to great deeds, great men, in a spirit of admiration for both. Great Leaders, by R. J. Unstead (A. and C. Black, 1 ls. 6d.), is another good piece of pro- duction, modestly priced, aimed perhaps at the early teens. Eight leaders are discussed. The story of Robert Owen was a good one to in- clude, and probably too much about Wellington and Churchill can never be said. Great Prime Ministers, by John Whittle (A. and C. Black, I5s.), is a useful book, giving studies of eight PMs, from Walpole to Lloyd George, with scholarly efficiency. The illustrations, including maps, are excellent.
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