AT HOME By Bill Bryson

At Home: A Short History of Private Life by Bill Bryson is a non-fiction book that explores the history of domestic life by using the rooms in his own English country house as a starting point. Each chapter focuses on a different part of the house—like the kitchen, bedroom, or bathroom—and dives into the fascinating historical, cultural, and technological developments that led to the modern home.

Bryson blends wit, curiosity, and deep research to uncover how ordinary domestic spaces are connected to major historical events, from wars and plagues to architectural revolutions and social changes. For example, in discussing the dining room, he might explore the history of food, table manners, and the spice trade.