If you want to learn how our, now popular, recreational activity has evolved over the years or wish to explore the role of public information and archives in the current economic and cultural climate, then you'll find this 278 page illustrated hardback an interesting read.

Essex Family Historian

…has written a readable account of how the centuries-old genteel pursuit of the genealogy of the landed and professional classes was transformed in recent times by an explosion of interest in democratic family history among millions of people throughout the land. His early chapters… are presented in a lively style…

The Local Historian

excellent and fascinating account of how genealogy emerged from a scholarly activity in service to the nobility

Family tree

The author recounts the growth of genealogy and presents the subject in both its historic and social context. He describes the development of ‘family history’ from being something of an academic interest amongst the gentry and scholars into a world-wide hobby for millions of people and, for some, an obsession.
The many people and organisations at the forefront of particular stages in the growth of the subject are accorded suitable credits; it would be unfair to pick out just a few examples but if you have heard of them they are almost certainly in here. Also included are a detailed index, a bibliography and many notes and references relating to the text.

Bristol & Avon Family History Society, March 2012

This interesting book opens by considering why researchers investigate their past. Sharpe shows that prior to family history becoming a mainstream hobby, it was often pursued for reasons of religion, or to prove an entitlement to a title or inheritance. He also looks at many different records, and describes how and why they came into existence.
Important teaching points emerge here, as an understanding of the background to a set of records helps the family historian to understand their strengths and weaknesses.
He covers the establishment of record repositories that we now take for granted, such as the former Public Record Office and subsequently county record offices. In fact, when the author describes the storage of public records prior to the 1840s, one is left with the feeling that it must be a miracle that any records from before that time still survive!
Other chapters look at the 20th century, with the main personalities and events documented as genealogy moves from being an esoteric interest of gentlemen and scholars to a popular pastime.
This guide includes a useful index and bibliography with suggestions of further reading, if you find the topic intriguing.
Overall, Family Matters provides a captivating read to inspire genealogists whatever their level – not to be missed.

Family History Monthly, March 2012

Getting away from this 'how to' format, this refreshing title from Michael Sharpe instead puts the study of family history in the spotlight. He traces its growth from its scholarly and gentlemanly roots to the mainstream hobby it is today and beyond, exploring what the future may hold. Placed in a social and a historical context, this is a timely publication, with the rapid development of the 'ancestry business' alongside the internet, changing legislation regarding public data and new technologies. By holding a mirror up to the 'industry', the author takes us back to the origins of family history, celebrating en route pioneering giants of genealogy such as Percival Boyd and George Sherwood who, among other more recent campaigners, successfully fought for access to public information, without which the quest for ancestors wouldn't be what it is today. A reflective, intelligent and sometimes controversial 'inside story’ on the family history community with all its imperfections, quirks and beauty.

Family Tree, March 2012

This one looks an absolute cracker! It’s a hardback book at £19.99 providing an account of the history of what I and many others do for a living, and one that as a former documentary maker therefore really appeals to me. Never mind what is that genealogists do for a living, whether as a hobby in quiet times or as a merchandiser or vendor providing a service, just what was the sequence of events over the last few centuries that led us to the situation where we are at today?

Chris Paton, British Genes Blog

His original and highly readable work offers a fresh perspective on an activity that Is not just a fast-growing leisure pursuit but also a rapidly expanding business sector and an important field for public policy.

Kent Family History Society Journal, Dec 2011