The environment in which Linnaeus produced his great works has seldom been described in reality. This informative and simply written book, however, allows eighteenth century Uppsala to emerge, and will delight enquiring minds of all ages. Small anecdotes illuminate the charm and wit of Linnaeus. We discover his sharp faculties of observation, talent for system and order, and unlimited capacity for work. We learn, too, of the university institutions, conflicts between town and gown, and the farming activities of Uppsalas eighteenth century inhabitants, not least professors households all of which raise questions as to the similarities and differences between academic life here and at, say, Leiden or Cambridge at the same period.

There is a wealth of material to guide those lucky enough to visit Uppsala and see for themselves, but also much for armchair readers wherever they may be, and for those who simply want to learn more about the man and the world of his time.

Helena Harnesk worked for many years as a cultural historian at the regional museum in Uppsala and has described the towns history in a number of books and exhibitions. She is a popular lecturer, and often leads guided walks on eighteenth century Uppsala.