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morgan_haybook's review
5.0
This book could be recommended to:
History Buffs : The author took great lengths to assemble historical records and cross reference them with detailed graphic depictions of what was going on in London at the time. The complete bibliography at the back of the book is worth looking into. Those doing research on their own will learn why certain parts of history really are hard to come by and how you can find new avenues of research.
Steampunk fans: Children of the Nineteenth and Eighteenth century did not go to band camp to get away from their abusive drunk parents. They went to the tower of London where the guards delighted in showing kids how their torture devices worked (on incarcerated people, or just explaining, not torturing kids). Several contraptions and devices are elaborated on in this book, not to mention the origins of barber devices. Those who wish to write steam punk will find lots of inspiration from this book in creating a convincing villain.
True Crime Readers: In researching the real Sweeney Todd, Mr. Haining ran across several other cannibals and murderers the tale could have started from. These tails and historic accounts are almost more chilling to read than that of the real Todd. Fans (could you call them that?) of Jack the Ripper will appreciate the fact that this author ties in the two characters and just like the ripper crimes, he explains what is in the locations now in present day London. It is also worth learning about the evolution of the British police force.
High-Brow Literature Geeks: Learn where the origins of many characters have come from by learning about the disgusting habits of old London. Also read about the evolution of the Newspapers of England from the Penny Dreadfuls, to tabloid-esque newsletters of the goings on inside prisons to the modern day papers.
Sickos who enjoy of-all-things BROADWAY MUSICALS: Yeah. You can read it too.
History Buffs : The author took great lengths to assemble historical records and cross reference them with detailed graphic depictions of what was going on in London at the time. The complete bibliography at the back of the book is worth looking into. Those doing research on their own will learn why certain parts of history really are hard to come by and how you can find new avenues of research.
Steampunk fans: Children of the Nineteenth and Eighteenth century did not go to band camp to get away from their abusive drunk parents. They went to the tower of London where the guards delighted in showing kids how their torture devices worked (on incarcerated people, or just explaining, not torturing kids). Several contraptions and devices are elaborated on in this book, not to mention the origins of barber devices. Those who wish to write steam punk will find lots of inspiration from this book in creating a convincing villain.
True Crime Readers: In researching the real Sweeney Todd, Mr. Haining ran across several other cannibals and murderers the tale could have started from. These tails and historic accounts are almost more chilling to read than that of the real Todd. Fans (could you call them that?) of Jack the Ripper will appreciate the fact that this author ties in the two characters and just like the ripper crimes, he explains what is in the locations now in present day London. It is also worth learning about the evolution of the British police force.
High-Brow Literature Geeks: Learn where the origins of many characters have come from by learning about the disgusting habits of old London. Also read about the evolution of the Newspapers of England from the Penny Dreadfuls, to tabloid-esque newsletters of the goings on inside prisons to the modern day papers.
Sickos who enjoy of-all-things BROADWAY MUSICALS: Yeah. You can read it too.
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