A History of the World in 10 1/2 Chapters - Julian Barnes

Read: May 2006

Subverting history should not be this much fun. But somewhere in the midst of stowaways aboard Noah’s Ark, an absurd trial in Medieval France, and a visit to heaven, we come to realise just what a ridiculous species Human Beings are. Absolutely ridiculous. Even the Earthworms think so. 10 ½ stories, 10 ½ narrative voices covering the entire scope of humanity. This is a secular history more divine and inspirational than any dogmatic text could ever be. I believe in Julian Barnes, he has earned my praise.

8 out of 10