30 Second Literature by Ella Berthoud
I was expecting to like 30 Second Literature by Ella Berthoud* but I had no idea that I will enjoy it so much. As all the books in the series (see towards the end of my post how many I read so far), in this one too each topic is described in 300 words on a page, with a few more details, such as a small bibliography, and a lovely graphic illustration.
30-Second Literature has seven chapters: The History of Literature; The Novel; Literary Prose; Poetry; Drama; Literary Devices; Literary Styles.
I was expecting to read about Shakespeare, but, instead, I was faced with an array of new authors I haven’t heard of, such as Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. Now I’m curious about them and I will look into some of the books/authors mentioned here. Also, imagine my surprise when I read: “… emerged as web-based opportunities for self-publishing diaries, soon to be overtaken by blogging and social media such as Instagram and Facebook, both popular contemporary forms of diaristic narrative”. This just proves how interesting and relevant are the topics mentioned in the book. It’s so worth it.
30 Second Literature by Ella Berthoud
Details about the picture: –
My rating: 5/5 Stars
Would I recommend it: Yes
Published by: The Ivy Press
Year it was published: 2020
Format: Hardcover
Genre(s): Non-fiction
Pages: 160
About the author: Ella Berthoud studied English Literature at Cambridge University. She continued on to University of East London where she studied Fine Art, and combined her twin passions of reading and painting by listening to books while creating works of art. She has worked as an artist in residence at Pentonville Prison, Friends School Saffron Walden and Queenswood School.
Some of the books in 30-Second Series: Anatomy; Ancient Greece; Architecture; Brain; Chemistry; Climate; Economics; Einstein; Elements; Fashion; Forensic Science; Great Inventions; Literature; Math; Medicine; Newton; Opera; Physics; Psychology; Quantum Theory; Wine.
Website & Social Media Links: 30-Second
*I was sent a copy of 30 Second Literature by Ella Berthoud for the purpose of this review. All opinions are my own.
I haven’t seen this book, but it sounds like an interesting little introduction to authors and literary themes, from which one could progress to more in-depth studies.
This is one I would have had trouble imagining if you hadn’t included the chapters and a little about them.
So many interesting topics available in this series!
Kelly recently posted…Books for June 2020
Hi Anca,
What a lovely little book, just right for dipping in and out of.
Ideal for fitting in my handbag if we are out and about and I just want something to browse!
Even better as a gift for one of my bookish friends, I already have someone in mind.
Thanks for sharing and enjoy your weekend 🙂
Yvonne
xx