Cambridge: Treasure Island in the Fens

by Nicholas Chrimes

Treasure Island in the Fens

Genres: History

322 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2009

Reviews

[Mark Latchford · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a marvellously constructed and very well researched history of Cambridge, one of the greatest universities in the world and an equally interesting English town. Rather than a dull chronological monologue, the author has divided his writing along themed chapters covering an extraordinary diversity of topics including architecture, the role of women, colleges, libraries, the role of the churches, parks, sports, chapels, libraries and so much more. Key alumni are discussed right through to recent graduates as well as the unique history over nearly a thousand years that has shaped this most distinguished of universities. The prose is relatively light and often witty. Complimenting the 300 pages of writing are numerous drawings from across the town. (I would have liked to see more especially in the architecture chapter or photographs). The author is a well- known and extremely well-read guide on Cambridge. I just wished we had more than three days in the town (where I did pick up the book last June) m. After reading this gem, we could have used a week or more exploring in great depth. Recommended for graduates and visitors alike.

[Nate · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a 600 page book typed on 300 pages. He mentions trouble getting it published based on length and now I agree.
A chore to read even though it’s one of my favorite subjects. Of note, 90% about the university and only a smidgen about the town.
Lots of typos that a professional editor would’ve caught.
Telling that this book about the university, sold in their bookstore, wasn’t published by CUP.

[Andre Perrucci · Rating 4 out of 5]

I live in Cambridge and wanted to read this book to learn more about the history of the town as well as the university. Despite stating "The 800 year (sic) story of the University and town of Cambridge, 1209 to 2009", the book is more about the history of the university. Particularly interesting is the chapter "A Cuckoo in the Nest" that describes the power struggle between the town and the university over the centuries.

There is plenty of details and trivia about the buildings, famous students and incredible links between Cambridge and other parts of the world.

It is a fascinating book, richly illustrated and I would recommend it for anyone who wants to know more about the history of its famous University.

[Arnut Pongprueksa · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of the best books about the uni and town ! Those who study here should at least have a little peek into the local stories through this book.

[Jasper · Rating 2 out of 5]

Interesting book, but most interesting for people who know Cambridge well

[Tazza · Rating 5 out of 5]

Picked up this book on a whim at the Cambridge University Press bookshop. A marvellously vivid and detailed history of Cambridge university and its colleges.Would highly recommend for anyone interested in the integral role Cambridge has and continues to play in the very heart of the UK's education system and the institution's long standing sponsorship by the government and the Crown.

[Justin · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fascinating read. As a student at Cambridge during the 800th Anniversary it was very enjoyable learning about the wider history of one of the world's most renowned universities. The early chapters about the formation and rigours of the medieval university are especially good.