Terry O'Connor Books

Exploring the unique relationship between humans and commensal animals, this book delves into how certain species have adapted to living alongside us in our homes and urban environments. By examining archaeological records, it reveals the intricate ways these animals have benefited from human activities, highlighting their significance in our daily lives. The investigation challenges the traditional dichotomy of domestic versus wild, offering a deeper understanding of our shared existence with these adaptable creatures.

Animal bones are one of the most abundant types of evidence found in archaeological sites dating from pre-historic times to the Middle Ages, and they can reveal a startling amount about the economy and way of life of people in the past.

Exploring the fascinating world of bones, this collection of essays delves into their structure, mechanics, and the insights they provide into ancient life. It covers topics ranging from the survival of ancient bones to the challenges of studying human remains and contemporary issues like extinction. The writing balances technical detail with accessible explanations, enriched by humor and personal anecdotes, making it both informative and engaging. Additional resources for further reading are also included for those interested in deeper exploration.

The book highlights the transformative impact of taphonomic studies on archaeology, particularly in understanding the processes that lead to the preservation of food remains in the archaeological record. It emphasizes the shift from viewing animal bones and plant remains solely as environmental indicators to recognizing their significance in broader research. Recent advancements in taphonomy are showcased, revealing a wide array of innovative research areas that have emerged over the past twenty-five years, demonstrating the evolving nature of this field.

Cornelius Franklin Gudgeon's memoir unfolds through his notes and recordings, chronicling his journey from a mercantile background in the English Midlands to an archaeologist in Mesopotamia. He shares encounters with notable figures like Agatha Christie and Mortimer Wheeler, while reflecting on the evolution of archaeology in the 20th century. Gudgeon's engaging and anecdotal style invites readers to consider his reliability as a narrator, all set against the backdrop of a generation shaped by two World Wars and significant global change.

Tells the story of Terry O'Connor and how he brought a British household name to Singapore. This book gives insight into the history of Courts, a general goods stores first set up in 1850 in Canterbury, England, its subsequent expansion into Southeast Asia, and its transformation from a furniture retailer to a purveyor of electronic goods.