Excluding the politcal views, I loved it

4 stars

The Discovery of Britain is delightfully peculiar mix of historical miscellany interspersed with autobiographical factoids of the author’s life. The ancient and early history of Britain were extraordinary. Full of exceptional facts and interesting information; I could have read that all day long. The bits of the author's life dovetailing in with the region, historical or geographical details was a quirky addition that added a more rounded perspective. 

The more recently 'modern' chapters were good, too, until it became rather political. Yes, of course, the Conservatives deserve all the criticism. They did not cover themselves in glory since the Brexit vote. But, I look forward to the spotlight of shame being directed in Labour’s direction in an updated edition. They have been the party in power since August 2024, when this book was finished, and have worked with speed to match the Conservatives, who had a 14 year premiership, to bring Britain, and her native inhabitants, low in a plethora of ways. Such a short time for them to prove equally as incompetent.

Skipping the political views, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the brilliant snippets of Britain's amazing history.