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.

Faversham's many natural advantages attracted settlers from earliest times. The surrounding farmland is most productive with fruit and hops grown in vast quantities. Both crops are still significant and the town is proud to be the centre of Kent's brewing industry. Of national importance is a collection of over 4,000 fruit varieties at Bogdale. Brick making is another local speciality, though albeit on a much smaller scale than a century ago. Haulage of these heavy loads to mainly London markets was by Thames sailing barges. Today a galaxy of fine country houses lie hidden close by in scenic countryside. While in the town centre the main streets are fine examples of effective conservation. Much credit goes to the townspeople who resisted town planners' inappropriate schemes with a true appreciation of their valuable heritage.

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.