A book that gives fascinating facts and bitesize background into Bristol’s history is proving the ideal Christmas gift for Bristolians this year.

Novelist and writer Michael Manson went on a search for the soul of the city of Bristol and returned with a literary “curiosity shop” of information about the city’s rich and diverse history.

Manson’s Bristol Miscellany tells of topics as diverse as hidden rivers, medieval walls, public protests, slavery, prisons and the treatment of mental illness. It is lavishly illustrated with historic photographs of Bristol and delves into hidden corners to reveal information to surprise even the most knowledgeable history enthusiast.

“Most people will find things that they know, some things they ought to know and a lot they will be delighted to find out about our city,” said Michael Manson.

“I’m still finding new corners, new streets, new communities even. I’d be delighted if the Miscellany helps readers to see their environment just that little bit more clearly, and maybe embark on their own voyage of discovery.

“It is aimed at anyone with a passion and interest in our wonderful city and a lot of Bristolians are set to be unwrapping a copy on Christmas morning.”

Steve Poole, Professor of History and Heritage at the University of the West of England, and Director of the Regional History Centre, described the book as: “An indispensable compendium of Bristol ephemera for streetwalking and armchair explorers alike.”

Manson’s Bristol Miscellany is available from bookshops or online from the Bristol Books website, www.bristolbooks.org priced £18.