The story of the consumer age as we know it begins in the Victorian era, when many of the elements that changed society forever - including mass production, the Penny Post, railways and labour-saving domestic appliances - first emerged. Changes such as these gradually made fashionable clothes and cosmetics, books, music, sweets and eventually, foreign holidays available to the general public, and were responsible for a higher standard of living, increased literacy and greater freedom for women.

This absorbing book examines the 20th century decade by decade. It explores aspects of daily life such as shopping, fashion, travel, entertainment, toys and games through a hoard of packaging, advertising and products themselves that Robert Opie carefully assembled. Key historical events of the 20th century are also covered - including two World Wars, four coronations, the arrival of radio and television and the first man on the moon. All of these events influenced daily life - not just the newspaper headlines of the day but also the sweet wrappers and the cereal packets.

There is something in this book to inspire a smile of recognition in readers of all ages - reminders of grappling with wartime rationing, poring over Picture Post or being swept along on a wave of Beatlemania. Remember When celebrates the way of life that these familiar names and images vividly evoke. It is packed with pictures and anecdotes that will appeal to anyone with a fondness for our shared past - from school children to graphic designers, social historians to lovers of nostalgia.