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Book Reviews of The Dirt on Clean: An Unsanitized History

The Dirt on Clean: An Unsanitized History
The Dirt on Clean An Unsanitized History
Author: Katherine Ashenburg
ISBN-13: 9780865476905
ISBN-10: 086547690X
Publication Date: 11/13/2007
Pages: 368
Rating:
  • Currently 3.7/5 Stars.
 5

3.7 stars, based on 5 ratings
Publisher: North Point Press
Book Type: Hardcover
Reviews: Amazon | Write a Review

3 Book Reviews submitted by our Members...sorted by voted most helpful

bklyn avatar reviewed The Dirt on Clean: An Unsanitized History on + 129 more book reviews
This book is an eye opening social history of cleanliness. Being clean has meant many different things to different cultures down through history. Much depended upon the availability of water and of soap. It is amazing to find that something we take for granted is a very recent development in history.

You will love all of the dirty details in this book!
Tesstarosa avatar reviewed The Dirt on Clean: An Unsanitized History on + 151 more book reviews
In the US today, most do not dream of leaving their homes unless they have first showered and perfumed their bodies. But this hasnt always been the case and its not necessarily because the bathing facilities arent available. Believe it or not, there was actually a time when water was to be avoided and that the best way to clean oneself was by wearing linen.

Ms Ashenburg takes us through the history of bathing from Roman times where is was a daily and social ritual to the Dark Ages when water was thought to cause ill-helath to the modern times where if you go out smelling like yourself you have finished your grooming.

A well written book with several side stories about washing methods and beliefs about cleanliness.
reviewed The Dirt on Clean: An Unsanitized History on + 7 more book reviews
A good history on a subject not often examined on its own. Quite enjoyed the read.