History Book Recommendations for Beginners

0:00 Intro
0:41 Popular History
1:45 Dan Jones
4:51 Roman History
5:19 Anthony Everitt
6:59 Rapid Fire Recs

Are you a history-curious or beginner/casual history book reader? This stack of history book recommendations is for you! I also break down the genre of “popular history” and recommend a couple of authors known for their accessibility.

The Plantagenets by Dan Jones
The Wars of the Roses by Dan Jones
Powers & Thrones by Dan Jones
The Rise of Rome by Anthony Everitt
Cicero by Anthony Everitt
Greek Fire, Poison Arrows and Scorpion Bombs by Adrienne Mayor
Say Nothing by Patrick Radden Keefe
Nothing to Envy by Barbara Demick
The Sea Wolves by Lars Brownworth
The Rise & Fall of the Dinosaurs by Steve Brusatte

#booktube #historybooks #nonfictionbooks

[boxorfurnace]

The Rise and Fall of Ancient Egypt by Toby Wilkinson. To understand Ancient history, especially Roman history, start with Egypt. This book is outstanding.

[scottglieden]

I’ve been wanting to get into reading history books for awhile. This video was very helpful in helping me decide where to start. Just purchased The Plantagenets and looking forward to diving in!

[patty]

I always start with a kids' book on a new history subject, if I can find one. Gives you a good overview from which to jump off.

[Beardmanwooly]

I immediately found a used hardback copy of Greek Fire, Poison Arrows and Scorpion Bombs on Pango and purchased it.

[luminyam]

Great recommendations, thank you. I love Dan Jones' work.

[jacksont]

I’m currently taking a history of Rome class and there’s so many interesting topics I want to read into further, thanks for the recs!

[cheryldaems]

So glad I found your channel. My nonfiction favorites include the history of the UK (and all the wars/marriages etc.) and the complex relationships with other parts of Europe. My second favorite is the history of Rome. I too am fascinated by the strategies of the conflicts/battles, etc. I find interesting the daily lives of the peoples of these various areas. I am so pleased to see you recommending Dan Jones' books. I found him first by his documentaries on different TV channels, and then began reading his books. I just received Henry V today, and have enjoyed a couple of his other nonfiction books. I am also a huge fan of historical fiction. Russka by Edward Rutherfurd is a great read, as well as his other books. Again, glad to be part of your channel.

[johngrimshaw]

Finding your channel has been awesome. Such great reviews ! i have so many of your recommendations in my thriftbooks cart continued success brother!!!

[jackreillygillic]

Great video!
I’m from Ireland, so I can heartily endorse your recommendation of “ Say Nothing” on the troubles. It’s an essential book on a heartbreaking subject.

[Herackles-]

Donald Kagan’s “The Peloponnesian War” is fantastic if you haven’t read it and really shows how the Greeks were left vulnerable for the Romans

[freebornjohn]

Some excellent recommendations. If anyone wants to watch a drama set in Rome then the BBC's adaption of Robert Graves's I Claudius is excellent with great acting and dialogue. It runs from the death of Julius Caesar to Nero covering those mad and dangerous times.

[Craven_Raven]

I’m very poorly read in history. These recs are great, and I’m looking forward to what else you have to say on the subject in the future.

[davidreece]

Just picked up Powers and Thrones, Rubicon, Persian Fire, and Fifth Sun on your recommendation! Gonna be a fall/winter of history haha

[watchedbyadrien]

excellent picks. can’t wait to read all of them

[thebrothersgwynne]

This is a video WE needed! I've only read a bit of Dan Jones, but feel the need to cover his whole catalogue! Definitely need to try some Mary Beards well....
Will

[alexmart]

"while the answer is yes, the answer is also shut up"😂
that's getting added to the arsenal.

[personmcpersonperson]

Great video, very helpful and motivating

[howiedavis]

Awesome video. Adding tons to my tbr list

[redatmosphere]

Love Dan Jones’s writing style it’s unique and engaging, working my through his works

[Blurbingify]

This is great timing; now I can get ready for nonfiction November with these recs!