An extremely readable and fascinating exploration of what it means to be English. Using a wide variety of references, Paxman provides an objective and perceptive overview of the influences that shaped the English mind. Some of it is very funny. The section on the Church of England was a revelation and, as the book jacket says, 'a brilliant analysis'. You may not like everything in it, but overall the picture is 'affectionate' and, amazingly, optimistic
(Victoria Grey-Edwards - bwl 5 October 2000 ) |
