A captivating picture of the medieval period in British history beginning with the arrival of the Normans led by William the Conqueror and continuing through the 12th, 13th, 14th, and 15th centuries by focusing on the objects of everyday life, all of which in this period were crafted by hand. Through engaging text and striking illustrations we become familiar with all the objects of everyday life: the clothes they wore, the agricultural crops they grew, the food they ate and its manner of preparation, as well as the structures they lived in, and the pastimes they enjoyed. We witness the development of castles, houses, and monasteries, and come to understand the influence of the crusades and impact of the plague. A fine book to round out the picture given by history books that focus primarily on political events and the people involved. For each century a timeline is provided listing famous men, great events, and principal buildings that helps the reader connect the things of a century with the people and events of that era. A book that is enjoyed as much by youth as it is by adults.