“Enjoyable and well written. . . . Using a journalistic tone, Withington looks at the history of exceptional human longevity, from Biblical oldster Methuselah to Britain’s celebrity fogey of the seventeenth century, Thomas Parr, before moving onto the recent surge, relatively speaking, in centenarians. . . . Filled with interesting facts and lively characters."

Publishers Weekly

"Withington has been gathering research about centenarians since 1984, when he spearheaded a current-affairs series on 100-somethings for Britain’s ITV network. Today, this long-lived cohort is the fastest-growing segment of the population and will likely remain so for years to come. Along with wisdom on how to live a long life, Secrets looks at 'blue zones,' global hot spots with a disproportionate number of centenarians; the upper limits of longevity; and a good overview of research on living a long life."

Sarah Murdoch | Toronto Star

"The general dos and don’ts are: don’t smoke, don’t become obese, don’t be grumpy; and do eat a moderate diet, do be open to new interests later in life, do be positive and do do lots of walking. These and many other factors—and, interestingly, some complete exceptions to these rules—are examined in Secrets of the Centenarians. . . . Real food for thought on a subject that must be of interest to us all."

Oldie

"Beautifully illustrated. . . . There is so much in this book that will give multiple pointers for other researchers and the general reader will be inspired by the personal stories that are told."

Methodist Recorder

"Packed with information, this is essential reading for anyone planning on getting a one-hundredth birthday card from Her Majesty. . . . Dissects longevity brilliantly considering factors such as genetics, marriage, location, and diet. . . . Best case studies and anecdotes in one book!"

Devon Life