The Book of the Feet: A History of Boots and Shoes

"The Book of the Feet: A History of Boots and Shoes" by Joseph Sparkes Hall is a journey through the ages, tracing the development of footwear from ancient civilizations to the 19th century. The book starts with the simple sandals of ancient Egypt, and moves through the evolving styles of the Romans and Greeks, showcasing old shoe-making methods, and cultural impacts. Written by a boot maker deeply connected to his craft, Hall combines historical facts with hands-on tips for shoemakers and solutions for foot problems. Using examples from museums, he paints a picture of how shoes changed, and reveals the mix of skill and creativity in footwear, highlighting how fashion and cultural meaning have always been linked.