Ben
fotopic... whats that?
Posts: 4,282 
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Post by Ben on May 23, 2010 19:06:38 GMT
I was considering buying 'The Victoria line' by Mike Horne, primarily so as I had a to-hand reference of the vics original route to the south and Croyden. However, I've now convinced myself that I should probably just invest in the entire series. Four questions: - Is this wise considering the combined price, or should I be content with buying only a couple?
- Is it worth it considering the wealth of info in other books and now online sources?
- Can anyone vouch for any book in the series in particular as being an exceptional read?
- Does the victoria line book contain the info I'm after?
I'm guessing some of the authors probably browse this forum, so I hope I haven't caused any offence! Being a penny-less student who should be saving I need to be extra sure whatever I do is the right move  |
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Deleted
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Post by Deleted on May 23, 2010 19:16:52 GMT
I've got the whole series; I'm not an author or in anyway connected apart from a satisfied reader. They are all a fantastic read, I started off with The Piccadilly Line and Going Green. Latterly I've collected the set including the re-worked District Line - I've still kept Going Green as they're different slightly. If you want an easy to find reference on a specific line, or just something to browse when you have time to spare these really are the books to get. I'm on my second Bakerloo book as i spilt tea on the first.  Cheers, ~ Gary |
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Post by ruislip on May 23, 2010 21:15:59 GMT
The one on the Piccadilly does the best job of presenting the line history within the framework of other events of consequence happening in London and the UK (two world wars, decreased service levels post WW2, changes in ownership of London Transport/London Regional Transport/Transport for London).
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gantshill
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Post by gantshill on May 23, 2010 22:12:25 GMT
I bought all the Charles E Lee histories, many from Griffin House in Baker Street in the late 1970s when there was a public sales area there. I also have the Mike Horne softback series, which present the history in quite a different way, and bring each up to date from where the Charles E Lee books left off in the 1960s and 1970s. They also include volumes on the Victoria and Jubilee lines.
I would recommend them. To change the subject slightly, what are the £20 hardback books on the Hampstead and Piccadilly Railways like? I've not bought them because of the cost. Do they have sufficient new information compared to the other line histories and Rails Through the Clay to make them worthwhile?
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Deleted
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Post by Deleted on May 23, 2010 22:45:26 GMT
Again I have those as well, if you ever feel that the Mike Horne series lacks detail in an area or mentions a subject briefly; then its going to be in the big hardbacks. As well as packed with loads of photos, the Piccadilly one for example has a rather nice couple or large Photos of the rebuilding of Hammersmith in the 1930's that I'd never seen before.
My bookcases groan whenever I go out as i'll be back with another book of sorts.
Cheers,
~ Gary
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mrfs42
71E25683904T 172E6538094T
Big Hair Day
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Post by mrfs42 on May 23, 2010 23:53:52 GMT
Do they have sufficient new information compared to the other line histories and Rails Through the Clay to make them worthwhile? Quite simply - yes. The author is also a member here, as he has done a very good job of ploughing through rather dry information to give a very readable account. I would wholeheartedly recommend them - albeit I've only got the 'ampstid book (I think AIs got the Piccadilly) and I keep meaning to buy the Aldwych one, but I keep being waylaid by other information! |
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gantshill
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Post by gantshill on May 25, 2010 17:40:08 GMT
Thanks for the recommendations to buy the hardback books. It is so helpful to read what forum members think, as you'll have a far better view than a general review which won't compare one book on the Piccadilly with another.
I can recommend the Aldwych branch book, I have a copy sitting on my bookshelves.
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