content: There are plenty of trashy historical novels to keep us entertained in planes and this might be a good example (although I read it on a coach) except that it is claiming to be factual. Well, I am a graduate student in the medieval intellectual history and I can tell you this book is almost complete fantasy. Some of the events Manchester describes did happen (although by no means all) but he totally fails to supply any sort of context or explanation. His bias is so glaring as to be embarrassing and he gives the impression of having a one track mind.If you want to learn something go elsewhere. If you want good historical fiction go elsewhere. If you like history of the sort that says Nero fiddled while Rome burned or King Alfred burnt the cakes then this is for you. Just don't let your professor see you reading it.