D2K is launched! At Daunts books in Holland Park on Thursday 1st, 150 people gathered to witness the official unveiling of From Democrats to Kings.

Daunts is a fantastic bookshop with a wonderful atmosphere - just the right place to celebrate the publication of this new history into one of the most turbulent periods of the ancient world.

There were school students, university students, bankers, lawyers, artists, tv execs and writers standing alongside lecturers, diplomats and speech therapists among a host of others to drink some fine wine, to get hold of their copy and to hear speeches by Simon Flynn, senior editor at Icon and the author.

For me - it was a great pleasure to welcome so many people and to take the opportunity to get across my message of not just how fascinating the ancient world is, but also how important it is for our world and for our future. As we stand in the midst of a series of elections around the world (Irish referendum on Lisbon treaty 2nd October; Greek elections Sunday 4th October; UK next year etc..) which will set the world agenda for the next 5 years at least, I firmly believe that we should take some time to reflect on what this tale of word change 2500 years ago can illuminate about our own situation, choices and outlook today.

The party continued until Daunts forced shut the doors (with happy smiles on their faces due to the number of sales) and the book-carrying revelers spilled out into the wilds of London to continue the celebrations.

Look out for the next book talk by Michael at Heffers, Cambridge on 21st October 6.30pm. Tickets strictly limited and available from Heffers.

See some photos from the launch here! Enjoy!