Chambers Biographical Dictionary

by Melanie Parry (Editor)

Marking the centenary of the first publication of a now-classic volume, this thoroughly revised and updated edition continues the tradition of excellence offering over 17,500 profiles of notable achievers. With more than 3,000 completely new entries, the Chambers Biographical Dictionary provides expanded coverage of contemporary figures including a wide range of luminaries such as Nadine Gordimer, Alan Greenspan, Wayne Gretzky. Still notable for its global and historical perspective - from Alexander the Great to Nelson Mandela - this new book covers an ever broader spectrum of human achievement including the arts, science and technology, popular entertainment, sports, religion, the media, politics and business. Each fascinating biography includes the historical and social context. A more attractive and readable volume than ever, each also entry now features a convenient at-a-glance summary under the name, while particularly important and influential people are highlighted in special boxed entries. Fully indexed with alphabetical and subject indexes. The Chambers Biographical Dictionary remains an essential reference for the general reader as well as writers, journalists and researchers.

Genres: Reference, Dictionaries, Biography

2008 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1897

Reviews

[Karen-Leigh · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love dictionaries and history and biographies...this combines all three.

[Tom]

Parry, M. (2011). Chambers biographical dictionary. New York, NY: Larousse Kingfisher Chambers.

Citation created by: Tom Shaw

Call Number: CT103 .C4

Description: Over 18,000 entries of biographic information for personalities spanning the history of the modern world.

Content/Scope: This selection contains international and historical coverage of all areas of human achievement including the arts, science, technology, sport, politics, philosophy and business.

Accuracy/Authority: This book has received positive reviews by reputable review sources.

Arrangement/Presentation: The book is paperback and presented as a biographical dictionary with Miriam Webster-like entries for each personality.

Timeliness/Permanence: This historical reference book was published in 2011, so its content and relevance will change little in the future. New editions are released every 10 to 15 years.

Cost: $29.00


Rational for Selection: This book is a quick and handy reference tool for any student wanting to start a research project that might include one of the personalities contained in the pages.

Professional Review: Booklist, February 1, 1998.

[Coleman Wigger · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was an even better book than I thought it would be after reading. I really enjoyed finding out that I knew more people than just a bunch of Actors/Actresses. That was great to know. I remember more from history classes than I thought. A great read for anyone! Tells about Poets, Actors/Actresses, Famous from History, ETc. All the way from early pioneers to astrophysicists.