I'm Here, and We're Talking about the Middle Ages

by Brandon Skanes

68 pages, Paperback

Published March 1, 2026

About the author

Author Brandon Skanes started writing in 2020, when he founded his brand called The Modernist Son. Since then, he has published several poetry collections. From a young age, Brandon wanted to be a writer. This actually started when he was working on fan fiction, around age 7. Literature has always been a passion, as his parents would read to him from an early age. A graduate of Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador, Brandon also enjoys playing video games in his spare time.

Reviews

[Brent Matley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brandon has written another excellent non-fiction book about the Middle-Ages. This time he delves into the themes of nostalgia - a fondness of the past, and how humanity has always been self-reflective of challenges, the unknown, changes, getting older, and the misconceptions people have about the time period. I learnt a great deal actually throughout this book; from many water supplies not being tainted in the upper echelons of society, to people being more aware and savvy in the Medieval Ages than we are led to believe. What I love the most about Brandon's non-fiction writing is his ability to blend his knowledge with his own personal experiences - I especially like the chapter about his time in the MEMS society, and it is also clear to see, Brandon is very knowledgeable about this period of history.

Like I stated previously, a variety of topics are covered. I don't want to spoil the book, but I thoroughly enjoyed how our human psychology was explored from the Middle Ages up until our modern times - Brandon shows us (the reader) that we haven't changed all that much - we have a tendency to look fondly on the past, we get anxious when we are facing significant change in our lives, and we reflect without end about failed love and regret. We have the same fears now as what people did then. Brandon mixes up each chapter with interesting essays where you can truly learn something new.

I recommend history readers, a new reader, or any fan of this time period to pick this book up.
You will not be disappointed!