Historian and broadcaster Dan Jones has shared his selection of favorite history books that have influenced his own approach to the subject. Known for his engaging narratives of medieval kings and empires, Jones highlights works that combine scholarly rigor with accessibility and storytelling.

Among his top picks is Bertrand Russell’s *A History of Western Philosophy*, first published in 1946. Jones praises the book for its sweeping overview of 3,000 years of human thought, from the Minoan civilization onward. He notes its clear thesis and sharp judgments remain relevant decades later, positioning it as an essential read for those seeking a comprehensive historical survey of philosophical ideas and their political impact.

Jones also recommends *Life Photographers: What They Saw*, edited by John Loengard. This collection pairs iconic images from *Life* magazine’s heyday with interviews of the photographers, including renowned figures such as Margaret Bourke-White and Robert Capa. Jones describes the book as a vivid visual history of the 20th century, offering a compelling record of modern events through both lens and narrative.

Turning to medieval history, Jones singles out *The Eagle and the Hart* by Helen Castor, a biography of the rival cousins Richard II and Henry IV. He credits Castor’s elegant prose and nuanced political analysis for shaping his own understanding of the period. The book is noted for bridging scholarly depth with engaging storytelling, exemplifying effective popular history writing.

For a more controversial but powerful work, Jones points to Ernst Kantorowicz’s *Frederick the Second*. He acknowledges the book’s moral complexities—highlighting its nationalist leanings and problematic historical context—but emphasizes its literary power and capacity to restore readers’ faith in epic history.

Finally, Jones recommends Wade Davis’s *Into the Silence*, which explores the 1920s expeditions to summit Mount Everest. The narrative delves into the psychological scars carried by climbers who survived the brutality of World War I, rendering the book both an adventure saga and a penetrating portrait of trauma.

Dan Jones serves as an ambassador for the National Year of Reading 2026 and is set to release his newest work, *Castles: A Fortified History of the World*, on October 8. His selections reflect a broad view of history, combining intellectual scope with human drama.