At Home: A Short History of Private Life by Bill Bryson (Review)

Bill Bryson is one of my favorite authors. His writing style is accessible, descriptive, and richly entertaining. In "At Home," Bryson takes a similar approach to his behemoth writing, "A Short History of Nearly Everything." But instead of meandering through the scientific knowledge of the universe, he meanders through the history of the home and how we came to achieve the modern Anglo-American living conditions. In addition to exploring the the rooms and amenities of the home, he explores such tangents as the ice industry [in relation to the kitchen] and the hazardous materials in early cosmetics [in relation to the dressing room].

It occasionally struck me that "At Home" failed to achieve the remarkable logical progression found in "A Short History of Nearly Everything." But Bryson still maintained an impressive nexus to life in the home, while presenting a survey of largely unfamiliar—yet entertaining—history. The book dragged at times, it is still a delightful read best taken in small doses. Readers are sure to find content that will be of value at dinner parties because there is a rich history behind the rooms, furniture, and general norms that shape our social interactions. Bryson tells some lovely stories that help us better understand the immediate world around us, and I recommend his work.