This text follows the standard format for the series - a more descriptive first section for AS and then a more detailed and analytical section for A2. Each section concludes with a short chapter on how to answer relevant examination questions.
Carefully tailored to meet the relevant specifications, the book provides a good introduction to the period for AS, where students will probably have not studied any medieval history since Year 7. Key issues and areas are covered, and the idea of having selcted supporting sources in the margin works well. I find some of the section frustrating, however. For example, in the '1066' chapter a 'Key Debate - Was Harold hit in the eye by an arrow?' merely reiterates the facts without providing enough information to allow a meaningful debate to take place.
The A2 section follows the key themes of society, changing kingship and the church. I particularly liked the case study on William Marshal, Earl of Pembroke, as a detailed look at the ups and downs of medieval life!
It is good to see publishers supporting the minority specifications, which will perhaps encourage others to take what is a fascinating period. This text is accessible and has plenty of detail - perhaps too many names in one sense - giving a useful entry into the period.