Extraordinary Europe

Welcome to Europe! Dive into the incredible history, beauty and diversity of this extraordinary continent with a beautifully illustrated and fact-filled encyclopaedia. Travel through five historical periods – Ancient, Medieval, Early Modern, Industrial and Twentieth Century – to see how Europe’s past shaped the world we know today, from prehistoric times and the rise and fall of civilisations like the Greeks, Romans and Vikings, to modern-day innovations and global influence.

Inside you’ll find:

• Highly illustrated maps: Explore shifting geography, borders and countries across centuries
• Action-packed timelines: Step into empires, dynasties, revolts, rulers and cultural milestones
• People and culture: Discover traditions, lifestyles, religions, arts, literature, music and architecture
• Wildlife and landscapes: Experience fjords, forests, glaciers, volcanic islands, rugged mountains and unique species from bison and lynxes to carrier pigeons and eagles
• Spectacular sights: Marvel at Knossos Palace, the Guggenheim Museum, the Mostar Bridge, the Eiffel Tower and the Škocjan Caves
• Change-makers and superstars: Meet Europeans who shaped history and continue to inspire today, from Julius Caesar and Joan of Arc to Anne Frank and Greta Thunberg
• Today and tomorrow: Explore Europe’s role in the modern world, its evolving culture of food, sport, art, technology and its exciting future in innovation and climate justice

Extraordinary Europe is written by Professor Catherine Fletcher, a historian specialising in Renaissance and Early Modern European history, whose extensive expertise means you'll dive deep into European history like never before. It contains gloriously rich illustrations from Helena Bonastre, whose vivid colours and detailed imagery bring the continent to life in a wholly new way.

Vibrant and wide-ranging, Extraordinary Europe is the go-to illustrated children’s guide to this continent. From ancient civilisations and mighty empires to plagues and conflicts, from revolutions and innovations to migrations and monarchies, it captures the drama and diversity of Europe’s story. Learn about the Renaissance, the Industrial Revolution, women’s suffrage, colonialism, human rights movements and the collapse of the Soviet Union. Journey through the Alps, the islands of the Aegean Sea and Norway’s fjords, to bustling cities and cultural icons, tracing inventions from the printing press to the World Wide Web.

Extraordinary Europe is a breathtaking, thought-provoking and inspiring read for the whole family.