Discussion: Edward Rutherford

Hi, I have a great excuse to read London again. I'm reading it with my high school British lit class. It may seem an unusual choice, but I think that historical novels often get short shrift in literature classes. How many of you ever saw a course listing at the English depaartment Survey of the Historical Novel?
We won't read the whole thing of course. I might have a mutiny on my hands. Are there any teachers out there that have used this text in class an might want to share their lesson plans or ideas?
Mitchell TEXGW@COMCAST.NET

>>By Mitchell


I'm not a teacher, but I've read all of Edward Rutherford's books and would heartily encourage any use of them for educational purposes, formal or otherwise. His research is impeccable ... and though his characters are fictional, they contribute a "life" to historical events that enhance the desire to learn more about his subjects.

Don A. Simmons
Tampa, FL
don.simmons@verizon.net

>>By Don A. Simmons


Have read all of his books,thoroughly enjoyed them all.Coming from England originally I found the history style of Sarum,London,& The Forest ,most interesting,being a history buff as well.I am looking forward to knowing the subject of his new book. I have heard him talking about his books & the research needed,& found him most interesting,& could have listened to him for much longer than time allowed.He said he had found during his research into the Forest he found descendants still living in The New Forest whose ancectors names appear in the book.

>>By Angel, New Zealand


Sarum remains my favorite, followed by London and The Forest. It seems that the three English books revealed in a subtle way the author's first-hand experience of these places that Russka didn't quite match, wonderful though it was. I understand his next book is on Dublin. If I were to suggest a topic to him, I would suggest doing Cornwall. The blending and tension of English and Celtic influences in that region would, I suspect, make for a great novel.

>>By Brian Taylor


Just finished " London" -- absolutely loved it -- " Sarum " as well .. My only regret is that I will never get to either city -- or England .. what a pity -- as after reading both I feel like I know the place so well .. what fantastic literature .
I have heard that people who like Edward Rutherford would like James Michner -- does anyone have an opinion on that as I may try some Michener ?

>>By Kathy Brumfield


I loved Russka and London both. I'm looking forward to reading his other books. He has become my favorite author. ( High praise considering I read almost a book a day!) I love his story telling manner and historical referances. It keeps things interesting and educational at the same time. And of course he has a great sense of humor. Who can forget the chapter in London called the whorehouse?!

>>By Hope Henry


LOVED Russka! Talented writer!

>>By Tess Owen


Although you aren't given the chance to attach yourself to Rutherfurd's characters because they are shown the door as soon as they are ushered in, all of his books are worthwhile and his dedication to his work is clear. I would be surprised and delighted should he one day turn his talents toward tackling America's brief but important history!

>>By Courtney Sheehan


"Saurm" was my first intoduction to the world of Mr. Rutherford, and is still my favorite, though all the others naturally come close. I am very much looking forward to his book "Dublin" because there is so much forgotten history in relation to that city, and his books are a marvellous way of becomeing intimate with the past, far more than virtually all 'pure' history books - and I'm a historian! As for suggestions, I would be intrigued to see if he would ever think of doing a book on Bru na Boinne - better known as Newgrange to you sassanachs - and the Boyne Valley, as it would be on a scale approaching that of Saurm (the longer and more involved the book the better as far as I'm concerned!). But then I would say that as I'm Irish! Other ideas would include Rome, Egypt, Istanbul, York (NOT New York, but there's an idea ...) Paris, India, Peking, Berlin, Sahara, Ethiopea ... ah bollocks, you could go on all night with this. If you read this, Mr. Rutherford, just do what you do best. Good things come to we who can wait.

>>By A.J.M.


I have read all of Edward Rutherford's books and I love them all. He brings hsitory to life! I realize that they are historical fiction but they are extremely well written and include a great deal of Historical Fact. I read London first and it is my favorite. And I am looking forward to "Dublin" with a great deal of anticipation. My family has links to both Dublin and London.

>>By Don Duckett, Jr.


I am currently in the middle of reading Rutherford's Sarum. It is the only thing of Rutherford's I've ever read and I am loving it. Even though there isn't a chance to get an intimate relationship with the charecters you get the relationship with their families as a whole. I would highly suggest this book to any history buff I know.

>>By Sven


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