At Home: A Short History of Private Life

by Bill Bryson
At Home: A Short History of Private Life cover
Good Books rating 4.25
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  • ID: 6182
  • Added: 2025-11-04
  • Updated: 2025-11-05
  • ISBN: 9780385619172
  • Publisher: Doubleday Books
  • Published: 2010-01-01
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 3

At Home delves into the rich history of domestic life, exploring how our homes have evolved over time. From the design of our living spaces to the everyday objects we use, this book uncovers the stories and cultural shifts that have shaped our concept of home. /n/n Author Bill Bryson brings his signature wit and curiosity to this exploration, offering a unique perspective on the mundane and the extraordinary aspects of our daily lives. Whether it's the history of the toilet or the evolution of the dinner party, At Home is a captivating journey through the history of the way we live.

Reviews
Pajiba · Pajiba Staff · 2011-09-09
comprehensive 4.25

The book is a bit of a brick in hardcover, but its scope is enormous. It is incredible the number of times that things come up in everyday life that are covered in the book.

The reviewer at Pajiba finds 'At Home: A Short History of Private Life' to be a comprehensive and informative read. The book's scope is enormous, covering a wide range of topics related to domestic life. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to make connections to everyday life, making it a valuable and engaging read. The reviewer notes that the book is a bit of a brick in hardcover, but the extensive information it provides makes up for it. Overall, the book is a testament to Bryson's ability to make complex topics accessible and enjoyable.

Quick quotes

    The book is a bit of a brick in hardcover, but at just under 500 pages, its scope is enormous.

    It is incredible the number of times that things come up in everyday life that are covered in the book.

    The book is a comprehensive and informative read.

Ian Hopkinson's Blog · Ian Hopkinson · 2011-07-21
interesting 4.50

Bryson's book is exceedingly readable and endlessly interesting, making it a valuable addition to any bookshelf. The lack of footnotes is a minor drawback, but the extensive bibliography makes up for it.

Ian Hopkinson finds 'At Home: A Short History of Private Life' to be an exceedingly readable and endlessly interesting book. The reviewer appreciates Bryson's ability to make complex topics accessible and enjoyable. The book is well-researched and informative, making it a valuable addition to any bookshelf. The reviewer notes that the lack of footnotes is a minor drawback, but the extensive bibliography makes up for it. Overall, the book is a testament to Bryson's skill as a writer and historian.

Quick quotes

    Exceedingly readable, as you would expect from Bill Bryson, and endlessly interesting.

    There's a sizeable bibliography and index but no footnotes.

    The book is a valuable addition to any bookshelf.

The Guardian · Stephen Moss · 2010-06-06
entertaining 4.00

Bryson's exploration of private life is both whimsical and deeply informative, offering a unique perspective on history. The book is engaging and thought-provoking, making it a delightful read.

In 'At Home: A Short History of Private Life', Bill Bryson takes readers on a journey through the history of private life, exploring how our homes have evolved over time. The book is filled with fascinating anecdotes and insights, making it both educational and entertaining. Bryson's writing style is engaging and humorous, which makes the book a delightful read. The reviewer appreciates the unique perspective Bryson offers, making the book a must-read for anyone interested in history or social sciences. The book is a testament to Bryson's ability to make complex topics accessible and enjoyable.

Quick quotes

    Home, he claims, is where history ends up.

    Bryson's method is to lead us on a history of Britain and North America through the mundane details of domestic life.

    The book is a delightful read, filled with fascinating anecdotes and insights.

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