Interpreting the English Village

Although reviewing is always a pleasurable occupation, it is rarely that a book of this quality is received, and even more rare that a reviewer can be sure that a classic, which will be consulted for decades to come, has come her way. This is one of those books, and it is a great regret that Mick Aston will not see its success. ~Susan Oosthuizen, Landscape History, Vol. 34, No. 2, 2013

All in all, the book is an excellent compilation of the history of Shapwick by authors who believe firmly in the continuity of the landscape. ~Christopher Taylor, Medieval Settlement Research Group, No. 28 (2013)

A very clear, superbly illustrated and highly readable long-term history of one community over the last 12,000 years or so. ~David Austin, Landscapes, June 2014 (Vol.15, No.1)

One of the book's challenges to the reader is the fact that it is jam- packed full of ten years of research. The authors have been able to put together an interpretation of Shapwick's landscape, and the people who shaped it, that can inspire new ways of academic research as well as new ways of incorporating a broader base of public interest into programs and research projects that show value to the people they affect. This of course was always a notable strength of Mick Aston, and one of the reasons he will be greatly missed. ~Melanie C. Maddox, The Medieval Review, 14.04.18

...a text which is academically robust and fully referenced, but accessibly written and excellently illustrated in colour with 250 figures, a mixtures of photos, plans and reconstruction drawings by Time Team's resident artist Victor Ambrus. ~Paul Stamper, British Archaeology, May June 2014

Interpreting the English Village...is an interesting, informative and entertaining description of the results of a 10 year study into the wilds of Somerset. Its plentiful full color images and sidebar stories assist in making the story come alive, and, by the way, passing along the wider history of the British Isles... This is a great example of the public archaeology output from landscape archaeology, and I recommend it wholeheartedly. ~K. Kris Hirst, About.com Archaeology Guide, 2013

...an inspiring example of a local study carried out by the people, about the people and written for the people... yet it might well be asked why it should merit a place on the bookshelves of enthusiasts of archaeology in Cornwall, or other places [outside of] Shapwick [and Somerset]. Quite simply, besides being a good read, it provides a possible model for others to follow in their own communities. Not only does it show how various disciplines have been applied but it is clear to follow, without the jargon that can be so daunting, and abundantly supplied with maps, so strangers can locate the places named with ease... Every parish deserves this treatment. ~Roger Smith, Cornwall Archaeological Society Newsletter

Fascinating, compelling and never patronising, this magnificent book is popular archaeology at its best. I cannot recommend it too highly. 10/10 ~Steve Marshall, Fortean Times, 301

Mick Aston was one of the presenters of the British "Time Team" archaeology programme, who died in 2013; this book is a great tribute to his knowledge, expertise and enthusiasm about all things archaeological. ~Sian Williams, http://thegardenwindow.blogspot.co.uk/

The book about Shapwick demands a meticulous effort, but is in the end immensely inspiring and stimulating. Well worth a read. ~Karen Schousboe, www.medievalhistories.com