"Raise the Flag" by Clive Gifford and Tim Bradford (QED Publishing)

They're not just for waving frantically at royal occasions, this book uncovers an amazing collection of facts about flags...
"Raise the Flag" by Clive Gifford and Tim Bradford is more than just a glossary of the different flags of the world.

It's absolutely packed with amazing facts about how flags have been used through the ages - initially in the form of pennants and tribal symbols, but in more modern times as a valuable means of communication - even saving lives.

Clive Gifford digs into the history of flags and in particular how each country ended up with their own particular flag designs, from flags formed as countries merged and combined (such as our own Union Jack) and even flags designed by children and then adopted by their countries.

There are even amazing sections detailing flags that have been vital and pivotal to landmark historical moments, even flags that ended up on the moon!

Do you recognise any of these and what they signify?

Richly illustrated throughout by Tim Bradford, this is a mammoth collection of different designs coupled with text that's completely in-depth but still simple to digest for a wide age range.

South Africa's colourful flag is steeped in history and momentous events.

It's far more than the sum of its parts, this book - a useful reference, a really fascinating read and a thoroughly awesome delve into flags from a non-fiction author at the top of his game.

"Raise the Flag" by Clive Gifford and Tim Bradford is out now, published by QED Publishing (kindly supplied for review).