Perfume: A Century of Scents

Perfume: A Century of Scents cover
Good Books rating 4.25
Technical
  • ID: 6962
  • Added: 2025-12-07
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
Cafleurebon · Odette Toilette · 2016-11-26
charming 4.50

The book is well-researched and witty, offering a charming exploration of 100 fragrances across the 20th century. It provides a unique perspective on the cultural significance of perfumes.

Odette Toilette's review highlights the book's thorough research and engaging writing style. It's a charming exploration of 100 fragrances, each tied to a specific decade of the 20th century. The author's unique perspective on the cultural significance of these scents makes the book a compelling read. The review also mentions the book's witty prose, which adds to its overall appeal. It's a must-read for anyone interested in the history and cultural impact of perfumes.


Quick quotes

    Well researched and witty, this book is a charming exploration of 100 fragrances across the 20th century.

    It provides a unique perspective on the cultural significance of perfumes.

    The author's engaging writing style makes this a compelling read.

NST Perfume · 2016-09-26
comprehensive 4.25

The book presents ten fragrances for each decade of the 20th century, accompanied by insightful essays. It offers a comprehensive overview of the evolution of perfumes and their cultural impact.

This review praises the book for its comprehensive overview of the evolution of perfumes throughout the 20th century. Each decade is introduced with an insightful essay, providing context and depth to the selected fragrances. The book's structure makes it easy to follow the historical progression of scents, and the essays offer valuable insights into the cultural and social contexts of each era. It's a great resource for anyone interested in the history of perfumes and their impact on society.


Quick quotes

    Perfume: A Century of Scents presents ten fragrances for each of the twentieth century's decades and an essay introducing each decade.

    It offers a comprehensive overview of the evolution of perfumes and their cultural impact.

    The book's structure makes it easy to follow the historical progression of scents.

The Independent · 2015-10-18
entertaining 4.00

The book is an entertaining romp through a century of perfumes, connecting fragrances with cultural and historical contexts. It highlights the evolution of scents and their significance in society.

This book is a delightful journey through the 20th century's most iconic perfumes. It's not just a history lesson; it's a cultural exploration that ties each scent to the broader trends and events of its time. The author's approach is both informative and engaging, making it a great read for anyone interested in the intersection of fragrance and history. The book also touches on the sensual and sometimes controversial aspects of perfume, adding depth to the narrative.


Quick quotes

    Lizzie Ostrom's entertaining romp through a century of perfumes, 10 per decade from 1900 to 1999, quickly makes the connection with sex, but also with class and power.

    It is a book that will make you think about the scents that have shaped our world.

    Ostrom's witty and charming prose makes this a joy to read.

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