Böcker av Robert Turcan

This fascinating selection of photographs traces some of the many ways in which Cranbrook has changed and developed over the last century.

Broadstairs is rightly known as 'the jewel in Thanet's crown'. This most easterly, quintessentially English seaside resort exudes much charm. Its sandy beaches provide wonderful opportunities for family bathing. Late Regency and more predominantly Victorian or Edwardian buildings reflect growth following railway expansion. Historically, the town's name was linked to broad stairs which were cut into steep cliffs above its shoreline, leading to an ancient religious shrine. A fishing village with smuggling activities is all that existed in Georgian times. By 1815 it was here that the exultant news of victory at Waterloo first reached our country. Later in the nineteenth century Charles Dickens frequented the borough. There are two museums relating to his life and great works. Festivals marking his visits along with food ftes enliven summer gaiety. All these vivid scenes are pictured within this collection of scenes, past and present. They are a colourful illustration of how time has kindly preserved and simply enhanced this Kentish gem.

The river Thames has always been a strong element of Gravesend's history. A port was established close to London, which became the embarkation point for overseas visitors before Tilbury Dock was built. From 1800 to 1830 the population doubled as it became a fashionable resort for Londoners. Day trippers increased in the nineteenth century as cheap fares on paddle steamers became available to the cockney masses. Affordable rail tickets also swelled visitor numbers.Fairs, parks and promenades flourished from the throngs of Victorian pleasure seekers. Meanwhile, heavy industries such as cement and paper manufacture also contributed to business growth, and during the last century, large housing estates have spread around the old town. Robert Turcan's new book will surprise and delight as it shows how the area has changed over time.

This is a vivid account of what their gods meant to the Romans from archaic times to late antiquity, and of the rites and rituals connected with them.