London A city revealed

The striking differences between these two delightful books add to their pleasure-and value. London: A City Revealed shares points of interest on a grand scale, while The London Companion is compact and quirky. The author of an earlier volume in Robson's "Companion" series (The Cook's Companion), Swinnerton presents tidbits of information, e.g., where is London's center or who turns on Oxford Street's Christmas lights? In addition, she offers fascinating lists, such as "Classic Tales of London," "Modern Tales of London," and "Top Ten Towers." Wittily, page numbers offer answers to trivia-page 144, for example: "The number of swimming pools in London." The larger book, A City Revealed is bursting with gorgeous pictures, including several four-page spreads. Their composition is stunning: an exterior shot of the Tate Modern naturally frames St. Paul's in the distance; lavish cherry blossoms enhance and soften a city block. Photographs of people, both locals and tourists (like those feeling a bit intimidated as they ride the London Eye, 443 feet above the Thames!), further brighten a lively compendium. History, geography, architecture, and relevant people: it's all here, in concise and often humorous entries, adapted from the text of Christopher Catling's AA Explorer London. Both books demonstrate that London's fascination stems from its contrasts, which include its ethnic diversity, its traditions, and its cityscape; both belong in most libraries and in all collections on London or England.-Susan G. Baird, Chicago (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.