Grattan begins his history of the Netherlands in 50BC, describing the harsh landscape and the industrious people who lived on it. He takes the reader on a journey through time, from the invasion of the French and Spanish through the formation of Holland and the establishment of the Dutch monarchy. The history continues in detail through the many wars fought by the Dutch, ending in the joining of Holland and Belgium into a single country. History buffs will enjoy this detailed retelling of the making of a nation. Irish writer THOMAS COLLEY GRATTAN (1792-1864) was born in Dublin, where he eventually studied law. He is best known for his book Highways and Byways, a memoir detailing his trips across continental Europe. He also wrote history books, including one on the United States.