Mary Vincent | R. A. Stradling
1 Excellent survey of Iberian history
This book is excellent. It is exactly what it says it is, a cultural atlas (map of culture). The book gives an refreshing survey of Iberian history. The book covers the Phonicians, Greeks thru the death of Franco. The book abounds with topographic and cultural maps. A must buy!!!!
2 Should be entitled "A Brief Encyclopedia of Iberian Culture"
Unfortunately the authors have no idea what the word ATLAS means (this seems to be the case with most recent so-called atlases that I have seen). Although there are a few maps, anyone who was hoping for an extensive series of interesting and detailed maps will be sorely disappointed.
3 Excellent book on cultural and political history of Iberia
This book offers an interesting, non-textbook style cultural
and socio-political history of Spain and Portugal, well
illustrated by plenty of excellent photographs. The
special sections on cultural, architectural features and the
great artists of the countries, like "paella", "The Great
Mosque of Cordoba" and "Dali" are excellent. Another good
thing about this book is that you can start reading from
anywhere because the sections are self-contained.
Unfortunately, not enough is mentioned about Portugal, at
least not to the proportion it deserves.
It is good book for those planning to visit the countries as
well as those who have been there and just want to sppreciate
more the history and culture of the Iberia.
