A Short History of England

I usually give history books 4 stars because I'm pretty easy to please most of the time. I had to give this 3 stars because Jenkins as a writer is very dry. He doesn't really try to motivate you to read more, it's purely on you if you want to read more. As a result, it feels like a bit of a chore to get through the book. Nonetheless, it's a very solid introduction to English history although after 1714, it can start getting a bit messy with parliamentary politics and the numerous names given at once. I can say I know Chatham, Walpole, Disraeli, Gladstone and Lloyd George are important figures but I probably can't remember what they did very much.

The main theme Jenkins is trying to convey is that parliament was very much a check to the power of the king. Jenkins' writing style as a result reinforces this argument because you feel like he's talking from a place of authority.

Basically, it's informative but dry and lacks charm.