Overview

The Magic of a Name tells the fascinating story of the first 40 years of Britain's most prestigious manufacturer - Rolls-Royce - a company whose record of achievement is part of the history of the twentieth century. The book begins with the historic meeting of two great men, Henry Royce and the Honourable C.S. Rolls. Their instant rapport led to an agreement whereby Royce would deign 'the best cars in the world' and Rolls would advertise and sell them. In 1906 Rolls-Royce Limited was formed and the legendary Silver Ghost, 'the best car in the world', was born. The Magic of a Name is a story of the genius and dedication that gave the world both cars and aero engines unrivalled in their excellence. Researched from company accounts, the book contains hitherto unpublished material and photographs. It is the first of a three volume history of Rolls-Royce.

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9781840461510

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At first sight this is not a book that cries out to be read. The jacket is sober, making it seem serious in the long, heavy and boring sense. It is certainly ambitious: the research, as the acknowledgements make clear, was extensive. As a serious piece of history it is certainly a worthy effort. But it also delivers a few surprises. The story itself begins with an historic meeting in 1904: Mr Rolls meets Mr Royce. Their collaboration and the activities of the firm they founded can be described in phrases which have become part of the language: such as Silver Ghost and Phantom. But cars are only part of the story. Alcock and Brown flew the Atlantic under Rolls Royce power. With the advent of the two world wars Rolls Royce engines powered such planes as the Lancaster and the Spitfire. The author weaves a compelling tale and makes following it easy; no mean feat given the sheer volume of facts dispensed along the way. Wonderfully evocative photographs add to the picture the book paints, and will, for some, be nostalgic. Whether this book, and its planned successor, is for you will depend on your interest in the history of this company. If the company's past fascinates you, then this book will not disappoint - and to say that the detail is thorough would be a serious understatement. But this is not just a book of facts - it brings real life to its story, and sets the traditions, people and products of what is a world famous firm (and name) in context alongside the ups and downs of its commercial success. (Kirkus UK)

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