“Picture History of the Cunard Line, 1840–1990”, by Frank O. Braynard and William H. Miller, Jr.

144 pages, Dover Publications, ISBN-13: 978-0486265506

Really, what else can one say about the Picture History of the Cunard Line, 1840–1990 by Frank O. Braynard and William H. Miller, Jr.? It’s all right there in the title. As a source of both information and rare photographs of the Cunard fleet few books can equal it, but it is so much more than that, including as it does a plethora of little known facts about some of the most famous ships in maritime history. And yet while it recalls the careers of the better known Cunarders, it also addresses many of the company’s less remembered ships (for instance, the great Aquitania, whose lengthy term of service included duties throughout both World Wars, is finally given the attention it deserves). Virtually all of the company’s intermediate steamers are reviewed, as well, making this book invaluable for any and all fans of this Grand Dame of British corporations. Because this book encompasses so many of Cunard’s ships – and because it presents over 180 of the best photographs ever published on this subject – it should be a treasured addition to any collection. You are just not an ocean liner buff if you don’t have this book. It is REQUIRED reading.