Book Review: Glastonbury Abbey by John McIlwain

Glastonbury Abbey: The Isle of Avalon – John McIlwain

Author: John McIlwain

Publisher: Jarrold publishing

First published: 2008

Edition: Paperback

Pages: 31

Blurb:    The ruins of Glastonbury Abbey, set among noble trees and well-kept lawns, are all that remain today of one of the greatest monasteries in medieval England. When the abbey was dissolved in 1539 the buildings were stripped and the walls left to the neglect of 350 years. Much of the town is built of stone from the ruins.

History of my copy: On Sunday 28^th August, my parents and I visited Glastonbury Abbey for my mum’s birthday. We bought this book there.

This book about Glastonbury Abbey contains many facts and majestic pictures of the Abbey. It covers its history, including its dissolution, along with its construction and related history, such as modern pilgrimage.

Unfortunately, the layout of the book isn’t very well executed and is often rather confusing. Also, the writing style itself isn’t intriguing, leading to a rather dull read.

Whilst comparable to the English Heritage guides, it is clear that it is far inferior and that less thought has gone into it.

To read or not to read: Don’t read. Overall, this feels like a poorly executed overview of the facts about Glastonbury Abbey. I’m sure there are much better designed books containing the same information and, failing that, a quick google search will probably cover the same information in a much easier to read format.