Synopsis: First published in 1954, this colourfully illustrated book traces the history of exploration from a post-World War II perspective. Beginning with the ancient Greeks and Phoenicians, it covers a period of over 2000 years, through Columbus and Drake to Scott and Shackleton, showing how our modern map of the world gradually took shape.

Review: This is a fascinating book, whether considered from an art historical point of view, celebrating as it does the work of one of Britain’s most important and influential illustrators, or taking into account its original aim to give an overview of the history of exploration.

However, probably the most intriguing approach for the modern reader might be to consider the striking contrast between this and modern non-fiction books for children. Mabel George’s concise text does not of course give an entirely balanced account. A child in 1950’s Britain could be forgiven for imagining that some parts of the world didn’t really exist in any meaningful way, until mainly western explorers first discovered, then traded with and subsequently conquered it. However, as Brian Alderson (Books for Keeps No.170) has said of the companion book ‘A Picture History of Britain’ published 2007, these books do present history as a satisfyingly continuous process. In fact this is so much the case that there are few sub-headings and no page numbers or index – unheard of in modern non-fiction for even the youngest readers!

Hutton’s illustrations are entirely appropriate in uniting this continuous series of events like a vibrant, colourful procession. The same limited but bright palette is used throughout, depicting people, events and maps in imaginatively varied page designs. Although these glossy facsimiles lack the feel of original prints, they clearly demonstrate Hutton’s mastery of lithographic technique, as he skilfully evokes the biting cold of Peary’s discovery of the North Pole, or an atmospheric darkness as Cook’s ship collides with the Great Barrier Reef. Were it to be undertaken today, one can imagine illustrations for such a book being made by more than one artist and including photographs of any existing artifacts that may have inspired Hutton’s images. Whilst a modern approach might give a more precise and balanced view of various chunks of history, one cannot help enjoying a non-fiction book that reads like an heroic story, illustrated by such sumptuous works of art.

2008-07-08