The Worst Jobs in History Paperback – March 1, 2007

The Worst Jobs in History is such an entertaining lesson in the history of some of the most difficult and unpleasant jobs in British history. One would normally not ponder such thoughts as what happens to discarded bones from dinner or cigars or who were the people that cleaned the streets for the Lords and Ladies in the Victorian era. The answer to these questions are interesting, educational and thought provoking. It is interesting to know who were the people that performed these jobs and what their living circumstances were in these periods of history in England. It is also a series I caught on the History International Channel with episodes performed by the author Tony Robinson, a historical Dirty Jobs like the series performed by Mike Rowe. I highly recommend this book!

Regardless if you've seen the BBC television program that this book is based on or not, this is one of the most entertaining books on history I've ever read. Most books about life in England can be pretty dry, especially those about daily life. This one, however, focuses on specific occupations that were integral to English life, but are terribly unpleasant. Even as an avid reader of the English Renaissance period, this book shed new light on English life. It's also a good reference to how some jobs were performed. Highly recommended for anyone who is wants an introduction to English life, and for those looking for a lighter side of history.

I bought this book sight unseen - and was surprised to find it was really a children's book. That said, it was well researched and well written and a very useful book that I would highly recommend for every school library and every budding historian. It might also be good for those studying their own family history - and those with hideously spoiled grandchildren. It was gruesomely fascinating - Thankyou Tony

I knew Tony Robinson's research work through the documentary shown in Channel 4, and I inmediately felt the necessity of having this book. Far from desappointing me, this book increased my interest. I think everybody should know what happened to that people who were not so lucky as we are. Thanks for showing all those worst jobs in history to us so vividly.

Very informative and entertaining. Parts of the book were very funny; while at the same time the descriptions of the jobs were so realistic one could almost feel sick reading them. Such an unusual subject for a book; but very enlightening.

well, the book was, as the title suggests, pretty good. though, if you're familiar with the bbc television series of the same name, this book will leave you somewhat wanting. while the book is just as informative, and goes into substantial detail, it tends to lack the humor and charm that tony robinson brought to the television show. that being said, i would still recommend it, because this really is a side of history that you don't hear much about and, that aside, definitely throws some perspective onto your work life.

Excellent book - fun to read and very informative. Will definitely buy another book by this author

This book is an excellent companion to the television series of the same name or just as a stand alone book giving a very good insight into the worst jobs accross our past. If you thought you had a bad job which you do not enjoy read this book then think again!. It covers a period which starts in Roman times and goes through history to finish in Victorian times, giving lots of details of trully revolting and tough jobs though that period, such as puke collector, illuminator, egg collector, leech collector, spit boy, toad eater, plague burier, topman, stone picker and chimney sweep. As with anything Tony Robinson is involved in it is very factual, detailed and interesting. Once picked up and started it is difficult to put it down.

Good condition interesting to read

Amusing, as were his TV versions.

this is a very informative and interesting account of the worst possible jobs you can imagine! I had forgotten how bad things were in those days, all kids ( and grownups) should read it and then realise how lucky they are !