12 Books That Changed The World written by Melvyn Bragg performed by Patricia Hodge, Hugh Ross, Robert Powell and Bill Bingham on Audio CD (Abridged)

In this digitised age of shared information it is easy to take for granted the power of the printed word. Here Melvyn Bragg presents a vivid reminder of the book as agent of social, political and personal revolution. In the fascinating book accompanying the ITV series, Melvyn Bragg takes a look at the most important British books in history, and their long-lasting effects which can still be felt throughout the world today. Far from being a study of dry texts...

TWELVE BRITISH BOOKS THAT CHANGED THE WORLD presents a rich variety of human endeavour and a great diversity of characters. From scientific breakthroughs to seminal human rights treatises; from dramatic works of staggering emotional depth to what were at the time seemingly innocuous documents - all these works have shaped the history of Britain and beyond.

Definitive, always illuminating and sometimes controversial, the hidden story of these twelve books is a journey through the colourful history of our island and its people.