The Little Book of Welsh Culture

by Mark Rees

This is a fast-paced, fact-filled journey through the cultural heritage of Wales, exploring the rich history of its literature, festivals, performing arts, visual arts, and music, and unearthing some fascinating secrets and hidden gems along the way. Crammed full of myths, traditions, birthplaces, and personalities, experience the country’s immense artistic legacy as never before, from the medieval legends surrounding King Arthur to its modern-day transformation into a thriving filming location for big-screen blockbusters. Discover the truth behind the ancient druidic rituals of the Eisteddfod, separate the facts from the fiction that surround Dylan Thomas’ infamous lifestyle, and learn how Wales successfully regenerated the Doctor Who franchise.

Genres: Nonfiction

192 pages, Hardcover

Published August 1, 2016

Reviews

[Phil · Rating 3 out of 5]

A cornucopia of facts was set out, many of which were new to me. Although there was quite a chunk of Welsh language culture and achievement described, the overwhelming impression from half way through the book, to the end, was of the vibrancy of the Anglo-Welsh culture that has spread its influence across the world in the twentieth century and into the twenty first. This influence seems to have been most prevalent in North America.

The writer's style and presentation was acceptable, although it seemed like a shopping list at times. I'm not quite sure if it was supposed to be a compact reference book or a narrative. In that respect it fell between two stools. Having been brought up immersed in both the Cymru Cymraeg and the Anglo-Welsh ethos, I can say that both schools are described without excessive PR or romanticisation (Richard Burton and Dylan Thomas excepted).

So for those who would like to learn about Welsh culture, it makes a good starting point, but that is all it is. There is far more depth to be discovered, and you will not find it in this little volume.