Sassoon: The Worlds of Philip and Sybil

By: Peter Stansky

Narrated by: Simon Barber

Sir Philip Sassoon (1888-1939), a glamorous and well-known figure in Britain for the first four decades of the 20th century, was the most eligible bachelor and the greatest host of his time. He attained prominence in the art world, high society, and politics. In contrast, his sister Sybil (1894-1989) lived a much more private life. Yet she was fascinating in her own right, marrying into the grandest level of the English aristocracy, restoring Houghton - formerly the house of Sir Robert Walpole - to magnificence and serving in the high command of the Women's Royal Naval Service during both World Wars.

In this analysis, historian Peter Stansky brings the Sassoons and their period into sharp focus. He also explores what their experience reveals about the nature of English life, particularly at the highest reaches, and its relation to wealth, power, politics, Jewishness, and art.

Audiobook is published by University Press Audiobooks.

©2003 Peter Stansky (P)2019 Redwood Audiobooks

Critic reviews

"A fascinating commentary on the workings of English society." (Times Literary Supplement)

"Peter Stansky's book is excellently researched and elegantly written.... A thoughtful biography." (Literary Review)

“An expert tour through these glossier lives.” (Los Angeles Times Book Review)

I enjoyed my few years at Houghton Hall

yes having worked at Houghton Hall,, of course I was very interested to hear the stories and life of Philip and Sybil , and I thoroughly enjoyed hearing all this through this audiobook copy , and can recommend it ,,,