This is the first guide book I've read for pleasure AFTER visiting a place rather than reading for information before visiting.

The author has a narrow focus - the religious history of Oxford - and marks out at the end of each chapter places of interest pertaining to that chapter's era of history. As historical reading, the chronological narrative is well written and easy to follow (though it does favor a reformed, protestant view of Christianity). As a travel guide - you'll find more complete tourist information in other books. The chapter format of history then sight map works because the principal sights of Oxford are in a fairly small area.

I recommend it for anyone traveling to Oxford and/or interested in Oxford's influence on Christianity in England and around the world. ( )