very exciting

really interesting book, fascinating everyday stories at normal people, wide range of different professions. Makes you wish to hear more

2 people found this helpful

Rather fascinating insights, an unusual structure

Rather fascinating insights, and an unusual structure that works well.

Instead of following just one or two characters in the ancient world, giving insight into their lives, here we are treated to two dozen citizens of Ancient China. We see their jobs, their homes, their families and their problems during an hour of the day (or night) in which they are busily occupied.

Midwives, grave (tomb) robbers, craftsmen, a whole range of men and women take their turn upon the stage as we see what everyday life might have been like two centuries ago.

The point that hit home with me was that China was so ADVANCED... their structures, technology, and above all else - a writing system - incredible compared to the rest of the globe at the time. By itself, a piece of writing left behind by a doctor, documenting cases, treatments - stunning foresight and professional behaviour! And how useful to have these kinds of information.

I quite liked listening to this, rather than reading a paper copy, it helped the stories feel more personal and present. The voice worked well for both genders and it was not hard to follow, chapter by chapter.

What a great idea for a series, a collection of personal accounts, snippets and lives of ordinary people at hours that mean something to them. Fresh and definitely something I'd want to delve into more, both for this time period and others.

With thanks to Nudge Books for providing a sample Audible copy.

1 person found this helpful

Superb!

A wonderful (if all too brief, in some of the more fascinating instances) snapshot of life in ancient China - recounted through the eyes, minds & methodologies of a broad range of 'typical' trades & individuals of the age.

Beautifully narrated by John Telfer, the collection manages to achieve an incredibly informative level of detail, without becoming stuffy, overly didactic or remotely prosaic.

Rather, it balances characterful romanticism with factual accuracy - subtly creating an easy sense of plausibility with all the right touches.

Well worth a listen... Enjoy!

Interesting and educational.

The 24 hours series is a brilliant way to learn about history. (At least the two I've read so far, this and Rome.) Here you meet people from all walks of life, and learn about how their lives actually was, as well as for example archaeological finds and religion.
The narrator does an excellent job. To my untrained ear, the Chinese pronunciations sounds good.

I've read a lot about European and Egyptian history, but know too little about Eastern. This was a great introduction.