Elements of Land Law

Book excerpt: 'Here is a book whose breadth of purpose and depth of learning are breathtaking.' Peter Butt, [2005] 69 Conv 363 Gray & Gray's Elements of Land Law is the definitive textbook on the subject. The book offers comprehensive coverage of the law in this area. The authors provide an insightful and thought-provoking commentary on the modern development of the subject and go on to explore how land law functions in today's society. The book includes an analysis of recent legislation and case law in England and Wales. There are also references to significant cases from Australia, New Zealand, the United States and Canada, coupled with a detailed account of reforms currently proposed by the English Law Commission. The book demonstrates a thorough understanding of the social and political context of land law and guides the reader through the sometimes difficult terminology of the subject. This fifth edition continues to balance up-to-date coverage of the key issues in land law with a critical survey of cutting-edge research. Building on the strengths of previous editions, the book ensures that excellent scholarship is accessible to an even wider readership: more chapters of shorter length offer the possibility of readers 'dipping' into topics in a non-linear way. A fresh, new format and text design support the re-structuring of content and aid navigability. Readers wanting to explore areas of interest in more depth are encouraged to do so by the exemplary footnoting and referencing. The book is accompanied by an online resource centre providing updates and web links between editions. This facility also contains illustrative material such as photographs relating to relevant cases discussed in the book. A podcast of the authors introducing the subject will excite students new to the subject area.