The 'Histories' follows on from the Essex Hundred and has been inspired by the ancient land system of hundreds. It delves into one hundred events or personalities from 2,000 years of the county's history. This second edition which has been reprinted 11 times with updates explores the possibility that Shakespeare may actually have been an Essex boy and examines myths about dragon slaying in the north of Essex. Beginning with the sacking of Roman Colchester by Boadicea and travelling through time to Ford of Dagenham's modern day windmills, the diversity of Essex as well as its pivotal role in the nation's development are brought to life and presented in an informative and entertaining manner. Essex is truly a county of contrasts. www.essex100.com

Illustrated by: Elizabeth Summers