To the Ends of the Earth: How the greatest maps were made

Book Review: “To the Ends of the Earth: How the greatest maps were made”

Summary: “To the Ends of the Earth: How the greatest maps were made” by Philip Parker is a lavishly illustrated book that provides a unique insight into the evolution of mapmaking and the science behind it. This comprehensive guide takes readers on a historical journey through the creation of some of the greatest maps in history, exploring key cartographers, mapmaking methods, and the development of techniques and technology throughout human history. The book covers topics such as evolving methods of surveying, drawing tools and materials, and various mapping conventions and key components of a map. With visually stunning historic maps and antique instruments, this book offers fascinating stories about how we came to chart our world.

Review: While “To the Ends of the Earth” offers a comprehensive exploration of the evolution of mapmaking, it fell short (for me) in delivering a truly immersive experience due to some issues with the ARC (Advance Reader Copy) edition. However, I believe that these issues are not reflective of the actual content and potential of the book.

One of the highlights of this book is its visually stunning collection of historic maps and antique instruments. The illustrations capture the beauty and intricacy of these maps, allowing readers to appreciate the artistry and skill involved in their creation. These visuals add depth and context to the historical narratives presented throughout the book.

The author, Philip Parker, takes readers on a captivating journey through the history of mapmaking, exploring various methods of surveying, drawing tools and materials, and mapping conventions. By delving into these topics, Parker showcases how mapmaking has evolved over time and how technological advancements have influenced this field.

The book also includes fascinating interludes on subjects such as the very first maps, deliberate mistakes, and superlative maps. These interludes provide additional insights into the world of cartography and contribute to a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

In conclusion, “To the Ends of the Earth” offers a unique and comprehensive exploration of mapmaking throughout history. With its visually stunning illustrations, engaging narratives, and insightful interludes, this book is sure to captivate readers interested in the art and science of cartography. While my experience with an ARC copy had some drawbacks, I believe that these issues should not detract from the overall quality of the book's content.

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

ARC Via NetGalley