The Holy Brook, or the Granator's Tale

If you regularly visit the Reading Central Library, or shop in Kings Walk, or cross the bridge from John Lewis to the Oracle, or live in Mallard Row, Brook Street West or Trelleck Road in Reading, you will know a little of the Holy Brook. Thousand of people use the crossroads at Jacksons Corner without knowing that theres running water a few feet down. But where does it start? Is it a natural stream or man-made? What is it for? What was it called when the Abbey was still functioning? This unique and secretive waterway has been hurrying through and under Reading for many centuries. Adam Sowan has written the fullest account yet of the Brooks topography, history, archaeology and mythology; Sally Castles map shows the places where you can follow its banks; and Peter Hays illustrations evoke its unique character.