Oriel College, a History (OUP), published in 2013, is a majestic book about one of Oxford's oldest colleges. Nearly 850 pages long, and priced at £85, it calls for strong wrists and deep pockets (but savings may be found among the usual websites). The editor, Dr. Jeremy Catto, and his dozen contributors write authoritatively both about Oriel and the history of Oxford University as a whole. From Oriel's origins, as St. Mary Hall, in 1326 up to the 21st century, this illustrated work of reference covers every aspect of college life – academic quarrels and factions, periods of student unrest and indolence, the acquisition of buildings and estates and much more. The last major history of Oriel was published over 100 years ago; it's hard to see this one being replaced any quicker.