Books in Britain's Living History series

Everyone uses bridges in their day to day lives. In fact, England could not have developed as it has without them. As well as their environmental value, their aesthetic curves and graceful arches are an attractive feature of the landscape. From the beautiful simplicity of an ancient clapper bridge to the elegant, sweeping lines of a modern suspension bridge, these structures delight the eye and complement their surroundings. But what do we really know about them? How and when were these bridges built? What exactly does a particular part do? And, most importantly, why don't they fall down? In this easy-to-follow book, Trevor Yorke uses his own illustrations, diagrams and photographs to explain the basic principals and styles of bridges so the reader can better appreciate them, and recognise how they work and from what period they date. The book is divided into four sections. The first gives the background of the subject; the second describes arched bridges; the third explains other forms of bridges and investigates viaducts and aqueducts. The fourth is a quick reference guide with a list of bridges to visit and a glossary to explain any unfamiliar terms.

Arguably one of the most prominent US Supreme Court Justices at the moment, Sonia Sotomayor has paved her own way to enact profound changes and reforms, despite the obstacles that stood in her way. And she certainly has had her share of adversity: she was diagnosed with diabetes when she was just eight years old, lived in housing projects in the Bronx in her youth, and fought (and still is fighting) against blatant discrimination throughout her career. Now in her early 60s, Justice Sotomayor has already made history in being appointed to the Court as the first Latina justice, the third woman justice, and one of the three youngest justices in this position.