This book, described by the TIMES as one of the best of the year, offers an excellent history of the Vikings. The "Viking Age" traditionally begins in June 793 with the attack of Scandinavian raiders on the Lindisfarne monastery, and ends in September 1066 with the death of King Harald Hardrada at the Battle of Stamford Bridge. However, this book presents a different perspective and argues that the Viking expansion began many generations before the Lindisfarne raid, examining Scandinavian history hundreds of years earlier.

The narrative covers the entire Viking diaspora, from Vinland in North America to Constantinople and Uzbekistan, with contacts as far away as China. Based on the latest archaeological discoveries, the book explores the complex roots of the Viking phenomenon and tracks the radical changes in Scandinavian society that arose from an economy oriented towards naval warfare.

Some of the most impressive discoveries include the central role of slavery in Viking life and trade, as well as the unexpected pirate communities and family migrations that were part of the Viking "armies." Neil Price brings us closer to the dialect and mental sphere of the Norse, revealing different Vikings compared to the heavy fighters of the traditional image.

The book offers a challenging and subversive look at Viking history, inviting us to see the Vikings as they see themselves - as descendants of the first human pair, the "Children of Ash and the Leek." This is a subversive and unexpectedly moving read.

Pages: 624, Dimensions: 12.8x12.8cm