The Full English: A Journey in Search of a Country and its People

A Sunday Times Book of the Week and Top 10 Bestseller A Times bestseller A Waterstones Paperback of the Year 2024 A Spectator Book of the Year What kind of country is England today? What does it mean to be English? Are we hungry for change or seeking old certainties? Join Stuart Maconie on an enlightening, entertaining journey through England, from Bristol's Banksy to Durham's beaches, from Cotswolds corduroy to Stoke's oatcakes. As his guide, Maconie walks in the footsteps of J.B. Priestley's classic travelogue, English Journey, to explore our national identity and how it has evolved over the last century. On his way, Stuart takes inspiration from the people he meets at bus stops and train stations, cafes and corner shops. Travelling the length of the land, Maconie explores the differences between city and town, north and south, and examines our past and present with affection and insight. Whether he’s passing the boutique hotels of Manchester, the moors of Ilkley or the grand houses of Tynemouth, looking out over misty fens or urban skylines, he shines a light on the people who make these places and asks what the future holds for them. Along the way, he uncovers local heroes and secret histories over early breakfasts and last orders. Through his journey, he lets us see our homes and habits, hopes and eccentricities with fresh eyes. The Full English challenges us to embrace the messy, shifting and diverse nature of England, and to ask ourselves what kind of country we want to be. In this bestseller, Maconie offers a literary exploration of Britain, blending travelogues and essays to create a humorous and insightful non-fiction piece. This Sunday Times bestselling book delves into the history and social interests of Europe, making it a special read. For fans of Tom Chesshyre (Slow Trains Around Spain), Richard Coles (Bringing in the Sheaves), Alan Johnson (In My Life), Rory Stewart (The Marches), and Will Sergeant (Bunnyman). HarperCollins 2023 For fans of Tom Chesshyre (Lost in the Lakes), Brian Groom (Northerners), Bill Bryson (A Really Short Journey Through the Body), David Hepworth (Uncommon People) and Alan Johnson (One of Our Ministers Is Missing)