The Special Collections Handbook

otherwise be forgotten. To archivists and records managers, seeing the importance and value in the seemingly mundane and everyday is second-nature. However, to the average person trying to make space in their loft, these records are often another cardboard box to be dumped. Sassoon states that ‘seemingly insignificant documents are important chronicles of social history and are becoming a rich source of material for research and publication’. Indeed, many of the examples in the book are remarkable and include tales of glamorous shipping dynasties, exotic travel journals and tragic war diaries. She provides an inspiring collection of stories that would induce anyone to take a second look at that box of old school reports. Of course, not everyone is going to have such glamorous ancestors, but Sassoon demonstrates the various levels of ‘importance’—from personal sentiment to historic or national significance—using interesting and insightful anecdotes and her key message, that every item deserves a second look, is an important one. In addition to her discussion on the content and value of memorabilia, Sassoon successfully lays out some general guidance on exploring and preserving one’s own history. Various practical tips are provided throughout, and the final chapter, ‘Advice from the Professionals’, includes comments from conservation experts, academics and archivists. Glossy and filled with beautifully reproduced images, the book is clearly structured and enjoyable to read. The overall tone is one of positivity and encouragement and provides an inspiring introduction to archives, aimed at engaging new audiences. Sassoon emphasizes the work of professional archivists and records managers, whilst exploring how the general public can become involved and interested in their own personal histories. Overall Keeping Chronicles draws attention to the value of memorabilia as a historical source and the importance of preserving it in all its forms.