Simple but elegantly written, 20 Nov 2008
Obama completely embraces the importance of effective communication as reflected on this book. I like the part where he realized how important is saying the right words and get the people's undivided attention to what he is saying.

Best Book I've read in 10 yrs., 20 Nov 2008
He describes his childhood to manhood in such a sensitive & interesting way. An honest & frank look at race issues that he had to consider due to his mixed race & ancestry. Until I'd read the book, I hadn't realised how deep he was. I Highly Recommend this book! Once I started it , I then looked forward to my next train journeys, to get the next instalment. And its now solved my Xmas gift ideas! I'm buying 10 x copies for friends & family. Great Writer!

Touching and sincere, 16 Nov 2008
This book was written so beutifully, that even the most mundane information evokes emotions that can't be explained. The chapter in which he describes his only memories of his father from about age ten is the part that really got me. Obama shares the memory of the one and only time his father taught him to dance. "Come Barry,my father said. "You will learn from the master" And suddenly his slender body was swaying back and forth, the lush sound was rising, his arms were swinging...." I became teary eyed while reading that part on the tube on the way to a job interview. I felt sorry that this young boy held onto all that he could of his father. Obama goes onto describe many years of his child and adult life. This is a must read for book fans, even if Obama hadn't become the first black American president he was still one hell of a writer.

Moving,engaging and inspiring, 15 Nov 2008
I have just finished President elect Obama's book. I could not put it down,and could not believe it was written by a politician.

He gives an honest account of his journey into his self, and search for his identity and roots.

I feel I have a real sense of the man, after reading this book. He is self aware, and I enjoyed his ability to share his struggles with readers.I could pick up on his sense of sadness, and confusion in his journey.


His work in the South side of Chicago, definitely gave him the grounding for the brilliant campaign he ran for the presidency.

I particularly enjoyed his description of his journey to Kenya, which I have travelled to several times.

This is definitely one of the best memoirs I have read.He writes with sensitivity,and is able to connect with his readers.

It gives me a lot of insight into the values,and background of the next president of the United States.



Perceptive, sensitive, funny, self-ironic, 13 Nov 2008
This was an unexpectedly fantastic read: how could a man who (later)decided to go into politics be so honest, so self-searching, so willing to explore beneath the surfaces? The fact that the author is now the US president-elect makes it all the more intriguing, but the autobiography is wonderful even without that extra 'icing on the cake'. Obama has a sensitivity to his own and others' weaknesses and strengths; he sees through the facade but is forgiving of people's foibles. What he has to say about being of mixed race is very much worth listening to: all those who just don't get the problems in US ghettoes or African countries might learn something here. His search for his own identity--the archetypical hero's journey to find the father--is both funny and very touching; the immense disappointment becomes a source of knowledge and wisdom. This is a man who crosses many bridges: between black and white, men and women, 'West' and 'Third World', past and present. Buy it--and enjoy it!

Simple but elegantly written, 20 Nov 2008
Obama completely embraces the importance of effective communication as reflected on this book. I like the part where he realized how important is saying the right words and get the people's undivided attention to what he is saying.

Best Book I've read in 10 yrs., 20 Nov 2008
He describes his childhood to manhood in such a sensitive & interesting way. An honest & frank look at race issues that he had to consider due to his mixed race & ancestry. Until I'd read the book, I hadn't realised how deep he was. I Highly Recommend this book! Once I started it , I then looked forward to my next train journeys, to get the next instalment. And its now solved my Xmas gift ideas! I'm buying 10 x copies for friends & family. Great Writer!

Touching and sincere, 16 Nov 2008
This book was written so beutifully, that even the most mundane information evokes emotions that can't be explained. The chapter in which he describes his only memories of his father from about age ten is the part that really got me. Obama shares the memory of the one and only time his father taught him to dance. "Come Barry,my father said. "You will learn from the master" And suddenly his slender body was swaying back and forth, the lush sound was rising, his arms were swinging...." I became teary eyed while reading that part on the tube on the way to a job interview. I felt sorry that this young boy held onto all that he could of his father. Obama goes onto describe many years of his child and adult life. This is a must read for book fans, even if Obama hadn't become the first black American president he was still one hell of a writer.

Moving,engaging and inspiring, 15 Nov 2008
I have just finished President elect Obama's book. I could not put it down,and could not believe it was written by a politician.

He gives an honest account of his journey into his self, and search for his identity and roots.

I feel I have a real sense of the man, after reading this book. He is self aware, and I enjoyed his ability to share his struggles with readers.I could pick up on his sense of sadness, and confusion in his journey.


His work in the South side of Chicago, definitely gave him the grounding for the brilliant campaign he ran for the presidency.

I particularly enjoyed his description of his journey to Kenya, which I have travelled to several times.

This is definitely one of the best memoirs I have read.He writes with sensitivity,and is able to connect with his readers.

It gives me a lot of insight into the values,and background of the next president of the United States.



Perceptive, sensitive, funny, self-ironic, 13 Nov 2008
This was an unexpectedly fantastic read: how could a man who (later)decided to go into politics be so honest, so self-searching, so willing to explore beneath the surfaces? The fact that the author is now the US president-elect makes it all the more intriguing, but the autobiography is wonderful even without that extra 'icing on the cake'. Obama has a sensitivity to his own and others' weaknesses and strengths; he sees through the facade but is forgiving of people's foibles. What he has to say about being of mixed race is very much worth listening to: all those who just don't get the problems in US ghettoes or African countries might learn something here. His search for his own identity--the archetypical hero's journey to find the father--is both funny and very touching; the immense disappointment becomes a source of knowledge and wisdom. This is a man who crosses many bridges: between black and white, men and women, 'West' and 'Third World', past and present. Buy it--and enjoy it!

Top drawer yet again, 08 Nov 2008
After reading Dominique Enwright's excellent biography on Winston Churchill I had high hopes for this.I was not disappointed because this is fantastic addition to that book.
The thing that I like about her books on Chuchill is the fact that they aren't overblown at all.They stick to the basic facts and hold your interest throughout.This fine effort showcases the wit of the great man in an easy to follow way and I have no hesitation in giving this a full five stars to go alongside Ms. Enwright's first book.
There are many books out there about Churchill but I doubt you will find two finer ones simply because they are so easy to digest.Very highly recommended.

flavor minus ingredients, 06 Mar 2008
a beautful cover and many mistakes in the text. no attribution for many quotes either.

Very enjoyable, 12 Feb 2008
This relatively small book is divided into several sections with slices from Churchill's life and quotations related to politics, speaches, friends, animals, family, etc.

Here are few excerpts:

While campaigning in 1900, it is said that the young Churchill was doing a spot of canvassing when one of those he approached exclaimed:

"Vote for you? Why, I'd rather vote for the Devil!"

"I understand", Churchill answered, "But in case your friend is not running, may I count on your support?"

* * *

When passed a very long but turgidly written memorandum on some worthy but uninspiring subject, the elderly Prime Minister weighed the thick wad of paper in his hands and commented, "This paper by its very length defends itself against the risk of being read."

* * *

Churchill liked animals; sometimes he found this difficult to reconcile with his fondness for rich food. Anthony Montague Brown recalled that 'One Christmas he was about to carve a goose. Learning it was one of his own, he put down the knife and fork and said, "I could not possibly eat a bird that I have known socially."

* * *

A BBC broadcaster described once sitting next to Churchill as he gave a speech, keeping his audience hanging on to his every word. The boradcaster noticed, howver, that what appeared to be notes in Churchill's hand was only a laundry slip, and he later remarked upon this to Churchill. "Yes", said Churchill. "It gave confidence to my audience."

WHEN PARLIAMENT SPARKLED, 10 Jan 2008
Anyone watching the televised proceedings from Parliament could be forgiven for nodding off, given the uninspiring nature of much of the proceedings, and the mundane characters who participate. If you want a glimpse of what we're missing this book is essential reading. Winston Churchill was one of the great characters of the House, at a time when there was no shortage of such people. He is quoted as saying, of the then Russian Foreign Minister, "I have never seen a human being who more perfectly represented the modern concept of a robot". I can't help feeling that, were he a sitting MP today, he'd find no shortage of candidates to fit that description. This book lives up to its title.

The Great British Patriot, 24 Jan 2005
This book sums up almost all the great qualities of a man who for so many was one of the greatest Englishman who ever lived. Full of quotes of indeed great wit and humour as well as thought and intelligence. Just a short read of this book will keep you in the best of spirits, and will surely put you in a most patriotic mood. A brilliant read and a must have book.

Simple but elegantly written, 20 Nov 2008
Obama completely embraces the importance of effective communication as reflected on this book. I like the part where he realized how important is saying the right words and get the people's undivided attention to what he is saying.

Best Book I've read in 10 yrs., 20 Nov 2008
He describes his childhood to manhood in such a sensitive & interesting way. An honest & frank look at race issues that he had to consider due to his mixed race & ancestry. Until I'd read the book, I hadn't realised how deep he was. I Highly Recommend this book! Once I started it , I then looked forward to my next train journeys, to get the next instalment. And its now solved my Xmas gift ideas! I'm buying 10 x copies for friends & family. Great Writer!

Touching and sincere, 16 Nov 2008
This book was written so beutifully, that even the most mundane information evokes emotions that can't be explained. The chapter in which he describes his only memories of his father from about age ten is the part that really got me. Obama shares the memory of the one and only time his father taught him to dance. "Come Barry,my father said. "You will learn from the master" And suddenly his slender body was swaying back and forth, the lush sound was rising, his arms were swinging...." I became teary eyed while reading that part on the tube on the way to a job interview. I felt sorry that this young boy held onto all that he could of his father. Obama goes onto describe many years of his child and adult life. This is a must read for book fans, even if Obama hadn't become the first black American president he was still one hell of a writer.

Moving,engaging and inspiring, 15 Nov 2008
I have just finished President elect Obama's book. I could not put it down,and could not believe it was written by a politician.

He gives an honest account of his journey into his self, and search for his identity and roots.

I feel I have a real sense of the man, after reading this book. He is self aware, and I enjoyed his ability to share his struggles with readers.I could pick up on his sense of sadness, and confusion in his journey.


His work in the South side of Chicago, definitely gave him the grounding for the brilliant campaign he ran for the presidency.

I particularly enjoyed his description of his journey to Kenya, which I have travelled to several times.

This is definitely one of the best memoirs I have read.He writes with sensitivity,and is able to connect with his readers.

It gives me a lot of insight into the values,and background of the next president of the United States.



Perceptive, sensitive, funny, self-ironic, 13 Nov 2008
This was an unexpectedly fantastic read: how could a man who (later)decided to go into politics be so honest, so self-searching, so willing to explore beneath the surfaces? The fact that the author is now the US president-elect makes it all the more intriguing, but the autobiography is wonderful even without that extra 'icing on the cake'. Obama has a sensitivity to his own and others' weaknesses and strengths; he sees through the facade but is forgiving of people's foibles. What he has to say about being of mixed race is very much worth listening to: all those who just don't get the problems in US ghettoes or African countries might learn something here. His search for his own identity--the archetypical hero's journey to find the father--is both funny and very touching; the immense disappointment becomes a source of knowledge and wisdom. This is a man who crosses many bridges: between black and white, men and women, 'West' and 'Third World', past and present. Buy it--and enjoy it!

Top drawer yet again, 08 Nov 2008
After reading Dominique Enwright's excellent biography on Winston Churchill I had high hopes for this.I was not disappointed because this is fantastic addition to that book.
The thing that I like about her books on Chuchill is the fact that they aren't overblown at all.They stick to the basic facts and hold your interest throughout.This fine effort showcases the wit of the great man in an easy to follow way and I have no hesitation in giving this a full five stars to go alongside Ms. Enwright's first book.
There are many books out there about Churchill but I doubt you will find two finer ones simply because they are so easy to digest.Very highly recommended.

flavor minus ingredients, 06 Mar 2008
a beautful cover and many mistakes in the text. no attribution for many quotes either.

Very enjoyable, 12 Feb 2008
This relatively small book is divided into several sections with slices from Churchill's life and quotations related to politics, speaches, friends, animals, family, etc.

Here are few excerpts:

While campaigning in 1900, it is said that the young Churchill was doing a spot of canvassing when one of those he approached exclaimed:

"Vote for you? Why, I'd rather vote for the Devil!"

"I understand", Churchill answered, "But in case your friend is not running, may I count on your support?"

* * *

When passed a very long but turgidly written memorandum on some worthy but uninspiring subject, the elderly Prime Minister weighed the thick wad of paper in his hands and commented, "This paper by its very length defends itself against the risk of being read."

* * *

Churchill liked animals; sometimes he found this difficult to reconcile with his fondness for rich food. Anthony Montague Brown recalled that 'One Christmas he was about to carve a goose. Learning it was one of his own, he put down the knife and fork and said, "I could not possibly eat a bird that I have known socially."

* * *

A BBC broadcaster described once sitting next to Churchill as he gave a speech, keeping his audience hanging on to his every word. The boradcaster noticed, howver, that what appeared to be notes in Churchill's hand was only a laundry slip, and he later remarked upon this to Churchill. "Yes", said Churchill. "It gave confidence to my audience."

WHEN PARLIAMENT SPARKLED, 10 Jan 2008
Anyone watching the televised proceedings from Parliament could be forgiven for nodding off, given the uninspiring nature of much of the proceedings, and the mundane characters who participate. If you want a glimpse of what we're missing this book is essential reading. Winston Churchill was one of the great characters of the House, at a time when there was no shortage of such people. He is quoted as saying, of the then Russian Foreign Minister, "I have never seen a human being who more perfectly represented the modern concept of a robot". I can't help feeling that, were he a sitting MP today, he'd find no shortage of candidates to fit that description. This book lives up to its title.

The Great British Patriot, 24 Jan 2005
This book sums up almost all the great qualities of a man who for so many was one of the greatest Englishman who ever lived. Full of quotes of indeed great wit and humour as well as thought and intelligence. Just a short read of this book will keep you in the best of spirits, and will surely put you in a most patriotic mood. A brilliant read and a must have book.

Prezza: My enormous chip on my shoulder, 28 Oct 2008
I always had a sneaking regard for Prescott, yes he came across sometimes as a bit of a maverick but it made for a refreshing contrast to other politicians.

Oh how one book can change your opinion of a man! To be blunt this is not just a poor political biography but a very poor book all round - a lightweight book about a supposedly heavyweight politician, which is more at home amongst the shallow so-called celebs' biographies than amongst serious political tomes.

This review really can be summarised by changing the book's title to `Prezza: My enormous chip on my shoulder', and you really don't need any further information as to what this book is about.

I'm honestly not exaggerating when I say that virtually every other page documents his struggles with academia and the feeling that the whole world is a conspiracy against him, usually because of those `nasty Tory toffs'. Soon into the book, even though there is an element of sympathy regarding his lack of academic abilities, you start to say `yes, yes we know, we get the point, now move on'.

Everyone, according to poor John, is trying to stitch him up; Sky News, the Labour Party, Unions and even the Queen. His encounter with the Queen provided one of the humorous highlights of the book and its inclusion had the opposite effect on me than Prescott probably intended. Instead of, like me, appreciating essentially a fellow master politician at work, with the subtly, astuteness and professionalism that the Queen displayed in a possibly awkward situation, Prescott's response was; "She'd deliberately... caught me out".

Perhaps some will see this review as unduly harsh (and if Prescott's reading it, part of the worldwide conspiracy against him) but I have certain expectations regarding political biographies.

Essentially, politicians are the cream of the top in terms of ability and intellect and I expect their work to reflect that to an electorate who votes and pays for them, so that we get an idea how the system works and how decisions, which affect every part of our lives, were made. For example books by Thatcher, Tony Benn, Healey, and Churchill are essential reading as political works. This is not one of them.

Major political issues such as the Referendum in 1975 are skimmed over and it's hard to see, despite Prescott holding the honourable office of Deputy Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, what he actually did apart from be a marriage counsellor to Blair and Brown. Even this is mainly whitewashed over. This subject has been covered in depth elsewhere especially by Andrew Rawnsley in his excellent Servants of the People, but Prescott's version (and he was at the centre of it) is reduced to one chapter with little analysis or much detail.

In all, a disappointing book which only took me half a day to read and probably not much more time to write.

Prezza: My enormous chip on my shoulder, 09 Sep 2008
I always had a sneaking regard for Prescott, yes he came across sometimes as a bit of a maverick but it made for a refreshing contrast to other politicians.

Oh how one book can change your opinion of a man! To be blunt this is not just a poor political biography but a very poor book all round - a lightweight book about a supposedly heavyweight politician, which is more at home amongst the shallow so-called celebs' biographies than amongst serious political tomes.

This review really can be summarised by changing the book's title to `Prezza: My enormous chip on my shoulder', and you really don't need any further information as to what this book is about.

I'm honestly not exaggerating when I say that virtually every other page documents his struggles with academia and the feeling that the whole world is a conspiracy against him, usually because of those `nasty Tory toffs'. Soon into the book, even though there is an element of sympathy regarding his lack of academic abilities, you start to say `yes, yes we know, we get the point, now move on'.

Everyone, according to poor John, is trying to stitch him up; Sky News, the Labour Party, Unions and even the Queen. His encounter with the Queen provided one of the humorous highlights of the book and its inclusion had the opposite effect on me than Prescott probably intended. Instead of, like me, appreciating essentially a fellow master politician at work, with the subtly, astuteness and professionalism that the Queen displayed in a possibly awkward situation, Prescott's response was; "She'd deliberately... caught me out".

Perhaps some will see this review as unduly harsh (and if Prescott's reading it, part of the worldwide conspiracy against him) but I have certain expectations regarding political biographies.

Essentially, politicians are the cream of the top in terms of ability and intellect and I expect their work to reflect that to an electorate who votes and pays for them, so that we get an idea how the system works and how decisions, which affect every part of our lives, were made. For example books by Thatcher, Tony Benn, Healey, and Churchill are essential reading as political works. This is not one of them.

Major political issues such as the Referendum in 1975 are skimmed over and it's hard to see, despite Prescott holding the honourable office of Deputy Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, what he actually did apart from be a marriage counsellor to Blair and Brown. Even this is mainly whitewashed over. This subject has been covered in depth elsewhere especially by Andrew Rawnsley in his excellent Servants of the People, but Prescott's version (and he was at the centre of it) is reduced to one chapter with little analysis or much detail.

In all, a disappointing book which only took me half a day to read and probably not much more time to write.

Just what l'd hoped for, 13 Jul 2008
To start my rant, I'm not a Political Animal, and was hoping it
would not be full of policy decisions, more about his life.
I bought the book because l like John Prescott and think he's an
enigmatic person, and would love to meet him. I wasn't disappointed.
It's an amusing and entertaining read, he tell's of his life and how
he got to be where he was/is, as well as the egg incident.
Its not a heavy read. Sadly the New Statesman really pulled
it to pieces, which is one of the reasons l bought it.
If your not a John Prescott fan don't go anywhere near it.
But if you can forget Politics and read about the man,
l think you will enjoy it.
Personally I'm very happy I've read it, and it has put in
my mind what l thought about Mr Prescott to be correct,
he is a decent, honest, funny man.....and grumpy as he admits.


Pulling No Punches - that title is a joke, 14 Jun 2008
I thought from all the preview blurb that the book would be a 'warts and all' story. Instead I found it to be almost totally 'sanitised'. Warts that were mentioned were regarded as blips rather than serious issues and Prezza makes sure he comes across as 'one of the nice guys'.

Simple but elegantly written, 20 Nov 2008
Obama completely embraces the importance of effective communication as reflected on this book. I like the part where he realized how important is saying the right words and get the people's undivided attention to what he is saying.

Best Book I've read in 10 yrs., 20 Nov 2008
He describes his childhood to manhood in such a sensitive & interesting way. An honest & frank look at race issues that he had to consider due to his mixed race & ancestry. Until I'd read the book, I hadn't realised how deep he was. I Highly Recommend this book! Once I started it , I then looked forward to my next train journeys, to get the next instalment. And its now solved my Xmas gift ideas! I'm buying 10 x copies for friends & family. Great Writer!

Touching and sincere, 16 Nov 2008
This book was written so beutifully, that even the most mundane information evokes emotions that can't be explained. The chapter in which he describes his only memories of his father from about age ten is the part that really got me. Obama shares the memory of the one and only time his father taught him to dance. "Come Barry,my father said. "You will learn from the master" And suddenly his slender body was swaying back and forth, the lush sound was rising, his arms were swinging...." I became teary eyed while reading that part on the tube on the way to a job interview. I felt sorry that this young boy held onto all that he could of his father. Obama goes onto describe many years of his child and adult life. This is a must read for book fans, even if Obama hadn't become the first black American president he was still one hell of a writer.

Moving,engaging and inspiring, 15 Nov 2008
I have just finished President elect Obama's book. I could not put it down,and could not believe it was written by a politician.

He gives an honest account of his journey into his self, and search for his identity and roots.

I feel I have a real sense of the man, after reading this book. He is self aware, and I enjoyed his ability to share his struggles with readers.I could pick up on his sense of sadness, and confusion in his journey.


His work in the South side of Chicago, definitely gave him the grounding for the brilliant campaign he ran for the presidency.

I particularly enjoyed his description of his journey to Kenya, which I have travelled to several times.

This is definitely one of the best memoirs I have read.He writes with sensitivity,and is able to connect with his readers.

It gives me a lot of insight into the values,and background of the next president of the United States.



Perceptive, sensitive, funny, self-ironic, 13 Nov 2008
This was an unexpectedly fantastic read: how could a man who (later)decided to go into politics be so honest, so self-searching, so willing to explore beneath the surfaces? The fact that the author is now the US president-elect makes it all the more intriguing, but the autobiography is wonderful even without that extra 'icing on the cake'. Obama has a sensitivity to his own and others' weaknesses and strengths; he sees through the facade but is forgiving of people's foibles. What he has to say about being of mixed race is very much worth listening to: all those who just don't get the problems in US ghettoes or African countries might learn something here. His search for his own identity--the archetypical hero's journey to find the father--is both funny and very touching; the immense disappointment becomes a source of knowledge and wisdom. This is a man who crosses many bridges: between black and white, men and women, 'West' and 'Third World', past and present. Buy it--and enjoy it!

Top drawer yet again, 08 Nov 2008
After reading Dominique Enwright's excellent biography on Winston Churchill I had high hopes for this.I was not disappointed because this is fantastic addition to that book.
The thing that I like about her books on Chuchill is the fact that they aren't overblown at all.They stick to the basic facts and hold your interest throughout.This fine effort showcases the wit of the great man in an easy to follow way and I have no hesitation in giving this a full five stars to go alongside Ms. Enwright's first book.
There are many books out there about Churchill but I doubt you will find two finer ones simply because they are so easy to digest.Very highly recommended.

flavor minus ingredients, 06 Mar 2008
a beautful cover and many mistakes in the text. no attribution for many quotes either.

Very enjoyable, 12 Feb 2008
This relatively small book is divided into several sections with slices from Churchill's life and quotations related to politics, speaches, friends, animals, family, etc.

Here are few excerpts:

While campaigning in 1900, it is said that the young Churchill was doing a spot of canvassing when one of those he approached exclaimed:

"Vote for you? Why, I'd rather vote for the Devil!"

"I understand", Churchill answered, "But in case your friend is not running, may I count on your support?"

* * *

When passed a very long but turgidly written memorandum on some worthy but uninspiring subject, the elderly Prime Minister weighed the thick wad of paper in his hands and commented, "This paper by its very length defends itself against the risk of being read."

* * *

Churchill liked animals; sometimes he found this difficult to reconcile with his fondness for rich food. Anthony Montague Brown recalled that 'One Christmas he was about to carve a goose. Learning it was one of his own, he put down the knife and fork and said, "I could not possibly eat a bird that I have known socially."

* * *

A BBC broadcaster described once sitting next to Churchill as he gave a speech, keeping his audience hanging on to his every word. The boradcaster noticed, howver, that what appeared to be notes in Churchill's hand was only a laundry slip, and he later remarked upon this to Churchill. "Yes", said Churchill. "It gave confidence to my audience."

WHEN PARLIAMENT SPARKLED, 10 Jan 2008
Anyone watching the televised proceedings from Parliament could be forgiven for nodding off, given the uninspiring nature of much of the proceedings, and the mundane characters who participate. If you want a glimpse of what we're missing this book is essential reading. Winston Churchill was one of the great characters of the House, at a time when there was no shortage of such people. He is quoted as saying, of the then Russian Foreign Minister, "I have never seen a human being who more perfectly represented the modern concept of a robot". I can't help feeling that, were he a sitting MP today, he'd find no shortage of candidates to fit that description. This book lives up to its title.

The Great British Patriot, 24 Jan 2005
This book sums up almost all the great qualities of a man who for so many was one of the greatest Englishman who ever lived. Full of quotes of indeed great wit and humour as well as thought and intelligence. Just a short read of this book will keep you in the best of spirits, and will surely put you in a most patriotic mood. A brilliant read and a must have book.

Prezza: My enormous chip on my shoulder, 28 Oct 2008
I always had a sneaking regard for Prescott, yes he came across sometimes as a bit of a maverick but it made for a refreshing contrast to other politicians.

Oh how one book can change your opinion of a man! To be blunt this is not just a poor political biography but a very poor book all round - a lightweight book about a supposedly heavyweight politician, which is more at home amongst the shallow so-called celebs' biographies than amongst serious political tomes.

This review really can be summarised by changing the book's title to `Prezza: My enormous chip on my shoulder', and you really don't need any further information as to what this book is about.

I'm honestly not exaggerating when I say that virtually every other page documents his struggles with academia and the feeling that the whole world is a conspiracy against him, usually because of those `nasty Tory toffs'. Soon into the book, even though there is an element of sympathy regarding his lack of academic abilities, you start to say `yes, yes we know, we get the point, now move on'.

Everyone, according to poor John, is trying to stitch him up; Sky News, the Labour Party, Unions and even the Queen. His encounter with the Queen provided one of the humorous highlights of the book and its inclusion had the opposite effect on me than Prescott probably intended. Instead of, like me, appreciating essentially a fellow master politician at work, with the subtly, astuteness and professionalism that the Queen displayed in a possibly awkward situation, Prescott's response was; "She'd deliberately... caught me out".

Perhaps some will see this review as unduly harsh (and if Prescott's reading it, part of the worldwide conspiracy against him) but I have certain expectations regarding political biographies.

Essentially, politicians are the cream of the top in terms of ability and intellect and I expect their work to reflect that to an electorate who votes and pays for them, so that we get an idea how the system works and how decisions, which affect every part of our lives, were made. For example books by Thatcher, Tony Benn, Healey, and Churchill are essential reading as political works. This is not one of them.

Major political issues such as the Referendum in 1975 are skimmed over and it's hard to see, despite Prescott holding the honourable office of Deputy Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, what he actually did apart from be a marriage counsellor to Blair and Brown. Even this is mainly whitewashed over. This subject has been covered in depth elsewhere especially by Andrew Rawnsley in his excellent Servants of the People, but Prescott's version (and he was at the centre of it) is reduced to one chapter with little analysis or much detail.

In all, a disappointing book which only took me half a day to read and probably not much more time to write.

Prezza: My enormous chip on my shoulder, 09 Sep 2008
I always had a sneaking regard for Prescott, yes he came across sometimes as a bit of a maverick but it made for a refreshing contrast to other politicians.

Oh how one book can change your opinion of a man! To be blunt this is not just a poor political biography but a very poor book all round - a lightweight book about a supposedly heavyweight politician, which is more at home amongst the shallow so-called celebs' biographies than amongst serious political tomes.

This review really can be summarised by changing the book's title to `Prezza: My enormous chip on my shoulder', and you really don't need any further information as to what this book is about.

I'm honestly not exaggerating when I say that virtually every other page documents his struggles with academia and the feeling that the whole world is a conspiracy against him, usually because of those `nasty Tory toffs'. Soon into the book, even though there is an element of sympathy regarding his lack of academic abilities, you start to say `yes, yes we know, we get the point, now move on'.

Everyone, according to poor John, is trying to stitch him up; Sky News, the Labour Party, Unions and even the Queen. His encounter with the Queen provided one of the humorous highlights of the book and its inclusion had the opposite effect on me than Prescott probably intended. Instead of, like me, appreciating essentially a fellow master politician at work, with the subtly, astuteness and professionalism that the Queen displayed in a possibly awkward situation, Prescott's response was; "She'd deliberately... caught me out".

Perhaps some will see this review as unduly harsh (and if Prescott's reading it, part of the worldwide conspiracy against him) but I have certain expectations regarding political biographies.

Essentially, politicians are the cream of the top in terms of ability and intellect and I expect their work to reflect that to an electorate who votes and pays for them, so that we get an idea how the system works and how decisions, which affect every part of our lives, were made. For example books by Thatcher, Tony Benn, Healey, and Churchill are essential reading as political works. This is not one of them.

Major political issues such as the Referendum in 1975 are skimmed over and it's hard to see, despite Prescott holding the honourable office of Deputy Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, what he actually did apart from be a marriage counsellor to Blair and Brown. Even this is mainly whitewashed over. This subject has been covered in depth elsewhere especially by Andrew Rawnsley in his excellent Servants of the People, but Prescott's version (and he was at the centre of it) is reduced to one chapter with little analysis or much detail.

In all, a disappointing book which only took me half a day to read and probably not much more time to write.

Just what l'd hoped for, 13 Jul 2008
To start my rant, I'm not a Political Animal, and was hoping it
would not be full of policy decisions, more about his life.
I bought the book because l like John Prescott and think he's an
enigmatic person, and would love to meet him. I wasn't disappointed.
It's an amusing and entertaining read, he tell's of his life and how
he got to be where he was/is, as well as the egg incident.
Its not a heavy read. Sadly the New Statesman really pulled
it to pieces, which is one of the reasons l bought it.
If your not a John Prescott fan don't go anywhere near it.
But if you can forget Politics and read about the man,
l think you will enjoy it.
Personally I'm very happy I've read it, and it has put in
my mind what l thought about Mr Prescott to be correct,
he is a decent, honest, funny man.....and grumpy as he admits.


Pulling No Punches - that title is a joke, 14 Jun 2008
I thought from all the preview blurb that the book would be a 'warts and all' story. Instead I found it to be almost totally 'sanitised'. Warts that were mentioned were regarded as blips rather than serious issues and Prezza makes sure he comes across as 'one of the nice guys'.


Fantastic insight into a brilliant mind, 27 Oct 2008
I won't say much, as if you are looking at buying this book you will probably have some idea of who this guy is and what he represents.

I found this book touching, fascinating and terrifying. The wool really has been pulled over our eyes and many of our civil liberties taken away from us in the UK.

Read this book, it will open your eyes.

Excellent- a compelling and unique perspective on the Blair/9-11 era., 24 Aug 2008
Being the proverbial 'floating voter' I have a large and unbiased appetite when approaching the genre of 'Political diary'. Alan Clark's were deliciously frank and irreverent, John Major's autobiography (though not strictly a Diary) was noble yet suspiciously sanitized for me and the overblown Alistair Campbell opus last year frankly rather dull considering he was Britain's media Czar and spin-king. But Tony Benn is always excellent value for money. Coming from the old Coventry and Warwickshire automotive heartlands I recall an Uncle regaling me as a boy with stories of picking Mr Benn up at Coventry station and conducting a whistle-stop tour of various BL factories in the 1970s. He was hugely impressed with his concise ability to sum up the sheer morass of industrial rancour in the UK at the time. I had previously purchased the Benn tapes and was utterly engrossed in the nitty gritty 'content' and adversarial 'detail' of government. The face-to-face show downs with Wilson, Callaghan and Foot illustrate the 'profession' of the career politician better than any A Level guide to Government & Politics could. True, there are the usual 'hot-potatoes' that Tony embraces with the utopian - and almost naive- stance of an idealist. But perhaps we could do with one of two of idealists just now. The book has an epistolary feel to it with his observations, critiques and conclusions on everything from New Labour, Cameron (Blue Labour as he calls it), Bush, British celebrity culture and his day to day sketches and contemplations on life-sometimes hugely poignant and moving. I can't say that Tony has made me a card carrying Socialist, the dominant ideology of 'one-party' pragmatism we all now live under perhaps too strong for that but I certainly felt all the more richer and rewarded for the reading experience. I'd rank it in the same league as Alan Clark -though obviously for different reasons! Tony Benn remains among the very best political diarist's we have.


Totally compulsive, 31 Oct 2007
I found it difficult to stop reading this; many times I could have gone on and on if my train hadn't reached its destination or the bath water hadn't gone cold.
Benn is an interesting character and a rarity among politicians. He doesn't tow the party line, he doesn't necessarilly go along with conventional wisdoms - for that alone he should be commended. Coming from the right, I found this diary fascinating stuff. You'd struggle to buy another book that offered such a sustained, constructive, powerful attack on the policies of Tony Blair. How amusing that some of the most piercing criticism of the dreadful Blair has come from leftish sources, eg the Taking Liberties documentary or Greg Dyke's memoirs. And this is where this edition of the diaries triumphs, because, for so long, Benn has been wrong about so many things. Socialism for instance. Yet now -he's right! His criticisms of Blair are devastating, he's spot on time after time. On the subject of Europe, civil liberties and global warming (a particularly interesting passage) he's bang on too (even though he does at one point refer to Dublin as not being in the EU).
The writing style is curious: slightly arch, a little self-knowingly for public consumption, at times luvvie-like (lots of 'It was lovely!' exclamations), at times almost child-like. Benn may not have the intellect or dashing style of classic diarists like Kenneth Williams or Alan Clark, but he is never less than compelling.
It might be argued that these diaries are published too soon after they were written so cannot be edited with the knowledge we will have of these times in years to come. But they have an earthy pungency and also provide a particularly individual slant on contemporary events; it's fantastic that we can get inside the head of such a famous living political figure.
The diary also demonstrates Benn's phenomenal energy. Even at the age of 80 he's zipping round the country on an almost daily basis giving speeches and attending rallies. (I'd recommend this book for any pensioner who is feeling their life is over - Benn could give you heady inspiration.) This is a man who has suffered a great loss fairly recently and the incredible sadness of this, which pervades the book, does not stop him from pursuing his agenda.
A few final points: the index is not totally complete, eg Enoch Powell is mentioned four times in the book but only gets one reference in the back. Note how many times he quotes people as starting sentences with 'well'. And bear in mind that Benn can be arrogant and paint himself in the best possible light, being quite disengenous with his arguments. But then, he is a politician!

Unputdownably good, 31 Oct 2007
There are so few politicians who say what they think. Tony Benn is one of those who does and he does it so entertainingly. Ruth Winstone's editing is brilliant and completely invisible and the diaries themelves range from the touching and human to the crotchety. I'm not sure I'd want to live with TB for a week. But they are hilarious too, featuring his encounters with the kind of strange people he seems to attract, whether it's George Galloway or any number of nutcases on the bus. A tremendous read: makes you think, laugh and cry. Very easy to pick up and really hard to put down.

Simple but elegantly written, 20 Nov 2008
Obama completely embraces the importance of effective communication as reflected on this book. I like the part where he realized how important is saying the right words and get the people's undivided attention to what he is saying.

Best Book I've read in 10 yrs., 20 Nov 2008
He describes his childhood to manhood in such a sensitive & interesting way. An honest & frank look at race issues that he had to consider due to his mixed race & ancestry. Until I'd read the book, I hadn't realised how deep he was. I Highly Recommend this book! Once I started it , I then looked forward to my next train journeys, to get the next instalment. And its now solved my Xmas gift ideas! I'm buying 10 x copies for friends & family. Great Writer!

Touching and sincere, 16 Nov 2008
This book was written so beutifully, that even the most mundane information evokes emotions that can't be explained. The chapter in which he describes his only memories of his father from about age ten is the part that really got me. Obama shares the memory of the one and only time his father taught him to dance. "Come Barry,my father said. "You will learn from the master" And suddenly his slender body was swaying back and forth, the lush sound was rising, his arms were swinging...." I became teary eyed while reading that part on the tube on the way to a job interview. I felt sorry that this young boy held onto all that he could of his father. Obama goes onto describe many years of his child and adult life. This is a must read for book fans, even if Obama hadn't become the first black American president he was still one hell of a writer.

Moving,engaging and inspiring, 15 Nov 2008
I have just finished President elect Obama's book. I could not put it down,and could not believe it was written by a politician.

He gives an honest account of his journey into his self, and search for his identity and roots.

I feel I have a real sense of the man, after reading this book. He is self aware, and I enjoyed his ability to share his struggles with readers.I could pick up on his sense of sadness, and confusion in his journey.


His work in the South side of Chicago, definitely gave him the grounding for the brilliant campaign he ran for the presidency.

I particularly enjoyed his description of his journey to Kenya, which I have travelled to several times.

This is definitely one of the best memoirs I have read.He writes with sensitivity,and is able to connect with his readers.

It gives me a lot of insight into the values,and background of the next president of the United States.



Perceptive, sensitive, funny, self-ironic, 13 Nov 2008
This was an unexpectedly fantastic read: how could a man who (later)decided to go into politics be so honest, so self-searching, so willing to explore beneath the surfaces? The fact that the author is now the US president-elect makes it all the more intriguing, but the autobiography is wonderful even without that extra 'icing on the cake'. Obama has a sensitivity to his own and others' weaknesses and strengths; he sees through the facade but is forgiving of people's foibles. What he has to say about being of mixed race is very much worth listening to: all those who just don't get the problems in US ghettoes or African countries might learn something here. His search for his own identity--the archetypical hero's journey to find the father--is both funny and very touching; the immense disappointment becomes a source of knowledge and wisdom. This is a man who crosses many bridges: between black and white, men and women, 'West' and 'Third World', past and present. Buy it--and enjoy it!

Top drawer yet again, 08 Nov 2008
After reading Dominique Enwright's excellent biography on Winston Churchill I had high hopes for this.I was not disappointed because this is fantastic addition to that book.
The thing that I like about her books on Chuchill is the fact that they aren't overblown at all.They stick to the basic facts and hold your interest throughout.This fine effort showcases the wit of the great man in an easy to follow way and I have no hesitation in giving this a full five stars to go alongside Ms. Enwright's first book.
There are many books out there about Churchill but I doubt you will find two finer ones simply because they are so easy to digest.Very highly recommended.

flavor minus ingredients, 06 Mar 2008
a beautful cover and many mistakes in the text. no attribution for many quotes either.

Very enjoyable, 12 Feb 2008
This relatively small book is divided into several sections with slices from Churchill's life and quotations related to politics, speaches, friends, animals, family, etc.

Here are few excerpts:

While campaigning in 1900, it is said that the young Churchill was doing a spot of canvassing when one of those he approached exclaimed:

"Vote for you? Why, I'd rather vote for the Devil!"

"I understand", Churchill answered, "But in case your friend is not running, may I count on your support?"

* * *

When passed a very long but turgidly written memorandum on some worthy but uninspiring subject, the elderly Prime Minister weighed the thick wad of paper in his hands and commented, "This paper by its very length defends itself against the risk of being read."

* * *

Churchill liked animals; sometimes he found this difficult to reconcile with his fondness for rich food. Anthony Montague Brown recalled that 'One Christmas he was about to carve a goose. Learning it was one of his own, he put down the knife and fork and said, "I could not possibly eat a bird that I have known socially."

* * *

A BBC broadcaster described once sitting next to Churchill as he gave a speech, keeping his audience hanging on to his every word. The boradcaster noticed, howver, that what appeared to be notes in Churchill's hand was only a laundry slip, and he later remarked upon this to Churchill. "Yes", said Churchill. "It gave confidence to my audience."

WHEN PARLIAMENT SPARKLED, 10 Jan 2008
Anyone watching the televised proceedings from Parliament could be forgiven for nodding off, given the uninspiring nature of much of the proceedings, and the mundane characters who participate. If you want a glimpse of what we're missing this book is essential reading. Winston Churchill was one of the great characters of the House, at a time when there was no shortage of such people. He is quoted as saying, of the then Russian Foreign Minister, "I have never seen a human being who more perfectly represented the modern concept of a robot". I can't help feeling that, were he a sitting MP today, he'd find no shortage of candidates to fit that description. This book lives up to its title.

The Great British Patriot, 24 Jan 2005
This book sums up almost all the great qualities of a man who for so many was one of the greatest Englishman who ever lived. Full of quotes of indeed great wit and humour as well as thought and intelligence. Just a short read of this book will keep you in the best of spirits, and will surely put you in a most patriotic mood. A brilliant read and a must have book.

Prezza: My enormous chip on my shoulder, 28 Oct 2008
I always had a sneaking regard for Prescott, yes he came across sometimes as a bit of a maverick but it made for a refreshing contrast to other politicians.

Oh how one book can change your opinion of a man! To be blunt this is not just a poor political biography but a very poor book all round - a lightweight book about a supposedly heavyweight politician, which is more at home amongst the shallow so-called celebs' biographies than amongst serious political tomes.

This review really can be summarised by changing the book's title to `Prezza: My enormous chip on my shoulder', and you really don't need any further information as to what this book is about.

I'm honestly not exaggerating when I say that virtually every other page documents his struggles with academia and the feeling that the whole world is a conspiracy against him, usually because of those `nasty Tory toffs'. Soon into the book, even though there is an element of sympathy regarding his lack of academic abilities, you start to say `yes, yes we know, we get the point, now move on'.

Everyone, according to poor John, is trying to stitch him up; Sky News, the Labour Party, Unions and even the Queen. His encounter with the Queen provided one of the humorous highlights of the book and its inclusion had the opposite effect on me than Prescott probably intended. Instead of, like me, appreciating essentially a fellow master politician at work, with the subtly, astuteness and professionalism that the Queen displayed in a possibly awkward situation, Prescott's response was; "She'd deliberately... caught me out".

Perhaps some will see this review as unduly harsh (and if Prescott's reading it, part of the worldwide conspiracy against him) but I have certain expectations regarding political biographies.

Essentially, politicians are the cream of the top in terms of ability and intellect and I expect their work to reflect that to an electorate who votes and pays for them, so that we get an idea how the system works and how decisions, which affect every part of our lives, were made. For example books by Thatcher, Tony Benn, Healey, and Churchill are essential reading as political works. This is not one of them.

Major political issues such as the Referendum in 1975 are skimmed over and it's hard to see, despite Prescott holding the honourable office of Deputy Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, what he actually did apart from be a marriage counsellor to Blair and Brown. Even this is mainly whitewashed over. This subject has been covered in depth elsewhere especially by Andrew Rawnsley in his excellent Servants of the People, but Prescott's version (and he was at the centre of it) is reduced to one chapter with little analysis or much detail.

In all, a disappointing book which only took me half a day to read and probably not much more time to write.

Prezza: My enormous chip on my shoulder, 09 Sep 2008
I always had a sneaking regard for Prescott, yes he came across sometimes as a bit of a maverick but it made for a refreshing contrast to other politicians.

Oh how one book can change your opinion of a man! To be blunt this is not just a poor political biography but a very poor book all round - a lightweight book about a supposedly heavyweight politician, which is more at home amongst the shallow so-called celebs' biographies than amongst serious political tomes.

This review really can be summarised by changing the book's title to `Prezza: My enormous chip on my shoulder', and you really don't need any further information as to what this book is about.

I'm honestly not exaggerating when I say that virtually every other page documents his struggles with academia and the feeling that the whole world is a conspiracy against him, usually because of those `nasty Tory toffs'. Soon into the book, even though there is an element of sympathy regarding his lack of academic abilities, you start to say `yes, yes we know, we get the point, now move on'.

Everyone, according to poor John, is trying to stitch him up; Sky News, the Labour Party, Unions and even the Queen. His encounter with the Queen provided one of the humorous highlights of the book and its inclusion had the opposite effect on me than Prescott probably intended. Instead of, like me, appreciating essentially a fellow master politician at work, with the subtly, astuteness and professionalism that the Queen displayed in a possibly awkward situation, Prescott's response was; "She'd deliberately... caught me out".

Perhaps some will see this review as unduly harsh (and if Prescott's reading it, part of the worldwide conspiracy against him) but I have certain expectations regarding political biographies.

Essentially, politicians are the cream of the top in terms of ability and intellect and I expect their work to reflect that to an electorate who votes and pays for them, so that we get an idea how the system works and how decisions, which affect every part of our lives, were made. For example books by Thatcher, Tony Benn, Healey, and Churchill are essential reading as political works. This is not one of them.

Major political issues such as the Referendum in 1975 are skimmed over and it's hard to see, despite Prescott holding the honourable office of Deputy Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, what he actually did apart from be a marriage counsellor to Blair and Brown. Even this is mainly whitewashed over. This subject has been covered in depth elsewhere especially by Andrew Rawnsley in his excellent Servants of the People, but Prescott's version (and he was at the centre of it) is reduced to one chapter with little analysis or much detail.

In all, a disappointing book which only took me half a day to read and probably not much more time to write.

Just what l'd hoped for, 13 Jul 2008
To start my rant, I'm not a Political Animal, and was hoping it
would not be full of policy decisions, more about his life.
I bought the book because l like John Prescott and think he's an
enigmatic person, and would love to meet him. I wasn't disappointed.
It's an amusing and entertaining read, he tell's of his life and how
he got to be where he was/is, as well as the egg incident.
Its not a heavy read. Sadly the New Statesman really pulled
it to pieces, which is one of the reasons l bought it.
If your not a John Prescott fan don't go anywhere near it.
But if you can forget Politics and read about the man,
l think you will enjoy it.
Personally I'm very happy I've read it, and it has put in
my mind what l thought about Mr Prescott to be correct,
he is a decent, honest, funny man.....and grumpy as he admits.


Pulling No Punches - that title is a joke, 14 Jun 2008
I thought from all the preview blurb that the book would be a 'warts and all' story. Instead I found it to be almost totally 'sanitised'. Warts that were mentioned were regarded as blips rather than serious issues and Prezza makes sure he comes across as 'one of the nice guys'.


Fantastic insight into a brilliant mind, 27 Oct 2008
I won't say much, as if you are looking at buying this book you will probably have some idea of who this guy is and what he represents.

I found this book touching, fascinating and terrifying. The wool really has been pulled over our eyes and many of our civil liberties taken away from us in the UK.

Read this book, it will open your eyes.

Excellent- a compelling and unique perspective on the Blair/9-11 era., 24 Aug 2008
Being the proverbial 'floating voter' I have a large and unbiased appetite when approaching the genre of 'Political diary'. Alan Clark's were deliciously frank and irreverent, John Major's autobiography (though not strictly a Diary) was noble yet suspiciously sanitized for me and the overblown Alistair Campbell opus last year frankly rather dull considering he was Britain's media Czar and spin-king. But Tony Benn is always excellent value for money. Coming from the old Coventry and Warwickshire automotive heartlands I recall an Uncle regaling me as a boy with stories of picking Mr Benn up at Coventry station and conducting a whistle-stop tour of various BL factories in the 1970s. He was hugely impressed with his concise ability to sum up the sheer morass of industrial rancour in the UK at the time. I had previously purchased the Benn tapes and was utterly engrossed in the nitty gritty 'content' and adversarial 'detail' of government. The face-to-face show downs with Wilson, Callaghan and Foot illustrate the 'profession' of the career politician better than any A Level guide to Government & Politics could. True, there are the usual 'hot-potatoes' that Tony embraces with the utopian - and almost naive- stance of an idealist. But perhaps we could do with one of two of idealists just now. The book has an epistolary feel to it with his observations, critiques and conclusions on everything from New Labour, Cameron (Blue Labour as he calls it), Bush, British celebrity culture and his day to day sketches and contemplations on life-sometimes hugely poignant and moving. I can't say that Tony has made me a card carrying Socialist, the dominant ideology of 'one-party' pragmatism we all now live under perhaps too strong for that but I certainly felt all the more richer and rewarded for the reading experience. I'd rank it in the same league as Alan Clark -though obviously for different reasons! Tony Benn remains among the very best political diarist's we have.


Totally compulsive, 31 Oct 2007
I found it difficult to stop reading this; many times I could have gone on and on if my train hadn't reached its destination or the bath water hadn't gone cold.
Benn is an interesting character and a rarity among politicians. He doesn't tow the party line, he doesn't necessarilly go along with conventional wisdoms - for that alone he should be commended. Coming from the right, I found this diary fascinating stuff. You'd struggle to buy another book that offered such a sustained, constructive, powerful attack on the policies of Tony Blair. How amusing that some of the most piercing criticism of the dreadful Blair has come from leftish sources, eg the Taking Liberties documentary or Greg Dyke's memoirs. And this is where this edition of the diaries triumphs, because, for so long, Benn has been wrong about so many things. Socialism for instance. Yet now -he's right! His criticisms of Blair are devastating, he's spot on time after time. On the subject of Europe, civil liberties and global warming (a particularly interesting passage) he's bang on too (even though he does at one point refer to Dublin as not being in the EU).
The writing style is curious: slightly arch, a little self-knowingly for public consumption, at times luvvie-like (lots of 'It was lovely!' exclamations), at times almost child-like. Benn may not have the intellect or dashing style of classic diarists like Kenneth Williams or Alan Clark, but he is never less than compelling.
It might be argued that these diaries are published too soon after they were written so cannot be edited with the knowledge we will have of these times in years to come. But they have an earthy pungency and also provide a particularly individual slant on contemporary events; it's fantastic that we can get inside the head of such a famous living political figure.
The diary also demonstrates Benn's phenomenal energy. Even at the age of 80 he's zipping round the country on an almost daily basis giving speeches and attending rallies. (I'd recommend this book for any pensioner who is feeling their life is over - Benn could give you heady inspiration.) This is a man who has suffered a great loss fairly recently and the incredible sadness of this, which pervades the book, does not stop him from pursuing his agenda.
A few final points: the index is not totally complete, eg Enoch Powell is mentioned four times in the book but only gets one reference in the back. Note how many times he quotes people as starting sentences with 'well'. And bear in mind that Benn can be arrogant and paint himself in the best possible light, being quite disengenous with his arguments. But then, he is a politician!

Unputdownably good, 31 Oct 2007
There are so few politicians who say what they think. Tony Benn is one of those who does and he does it so entertainingly. Ruth Winstone's editing is brilliant and completely invisible and the diaries themelves range from the touching and human to the crotchety. I'm not sure I'd want to live with TB for a week. But they are hilarious too, featuring his encounters with the kind of strange people he seems to attract, whether it's George Galloway or any number of nutcases on the bus. A tremendous read: makes you think, laugh and cry. Very easy to pick up and really hard to put down.

A somewhat flawed review of a flawed man, 17 Nov 2008
I have been intruiged about how George Bush was not only elected once, but re-elected as US president. So, in a bored moment, I bought this book. It promised much,and is worth a read, but cutting to the chase, it was fascinating but fairly distorted ... not by lack of trying, but by trying too hard. Everything was force fitted into a mould that had some truth in it, but was pushed too far. In a little more detail, the backstory was fascinating, the early years likewise, and you can certainly see how his thesis of a man who wants to emulate his father's course, but also draw sharp contrast and be thought of as his own man. Having done this groundwork, it felt like the period of the presidency was skated over, and through the lens of folks like Karl Rove and Dick Cheney. Even here it paints only a sketch of Condi Rice who feels an intruiging figure who, from the little I know, I thought should have been smart enough to provide a more guiding hand. The books written fairly well, but nothing like as well as one might interpret from the reviews.

So, one of the things I was left wondering was how it got the rave reviews it did on the cover - e.g the front cover has a quote from Malcolm Gladwell (he of 'The tipping point') - "Political drama, family history and psychological insight in dazzling combination. If you read one book about George W. Bush and his presidency, this should be it". That would be the same Malcolm Gladwell thanked in the Acknowledgements for his 'keen insights and editorial suggestions' would it? And, the one who dwelt on Jacob's mother Lois extensively within 'The Tipping Point'. So, hardly the disinterested observer that you might imagine.

But, he's in good company, since Jacob also thanks Joe Klein (Author of 'Primary Colors') for the benefits that have come from conversations with him (and others) ... and Joe turns up on the back cover saying 'Scorching, powerful and entirely plausible ... a beautifully written and erudite book, hilarious at times, a joy to read'. In terms of general reviews we have 'A serious, thought-provoking effort to penetrate what instinct tells us muct be an extraordinary family drama' from the Washington Post. Jacob is editor-in-chief of Slate Group, a division of The Washington Post Company in which I must presume the Washington Post is stabled. Maybe it's an innocent connection, but after two spun connections, I am a little skeptical.

But, for all the skepticism, still worth a read, and worth three stars

A Family Madness **, 16 Jun 2008
Drawing on some distorted form of Freudian analysis and dabbling in Shakespeare, Weisberg is at some pains to show how George W. Bush's family heritage formed the President's personality. The son is continually referencing his father in comments and actions, while at the same time trying to distance himself from the 41st President . This isn't the first effort along these lines, nor will it surely be the last. In this well-written, but terribly narrow assessment, the author carefully traces how W.'s actions are a reflection of his reactions to his President father.

The account opens with a summary history of the Bush and Walker families. Their rise, successes and especially their personalities lay the groundwork for what follows. Weisberg carefully follows W.'s life in Texas and his attempts at an education in the East. Yale was not a happy time for the young man, and his reaction to the alien world of "The Eastern Establishment" set patterns he would follow throughout his career. As he haltingly moves toward becoming the Republican nominee [although little is given of that process], Bush begins collecting the men - and a woman - who will become his "inner circle". Karl Rove is a sycophant with a dream, manipulating Bush while being subjected to W's banter. Rove is later joined by Dick Cheney, two men with a dream of remaking the Presidency and US society. It's a compelling, if highly disturbing picture.

The Iraq invasion is, of course, the pivot point for Weisberg's analysis, calling the crusade against Saddam Hussein a total blunder. Yet Weisberg, in his depiction, makes a major gaffe of his own. After making serious effort to show how Bush makes decisions with little consideration, then sticks to the choice against any contending opinions, tells us that the President had not chosen to invade until almost the final moment. This is an astounding reversal of what Weisberg has been presenting throughout the book. The author accepts that the Bush regime "honestly" felt Hussein was a threat and the war decision justified on those grounds. Weisberg lightly passes over those such as Richard Clark or Christopher Meyer who testified Bush had decided on "regime change" long before. He ignores Colin Powell's admission that he was fed a lot of "BS" to present to the UN. Indeed, the contrived WMDs the Bush regime touted so vehemently were declared missing by Hans Blix, who receives not a drop of ink here.

Nothing is offered for why US voters should have returned this misfit to the Presidency. It will be the greatest tragedy in US history if Bush leaves the Presidency without facing charges, but this eventuality never enters Weisberg's account. In fact, no real assessment of the long-term impact of the regime's many Constitutional violations is given. We are given the portrait of a vulnerable man, with the most superficial talents holding sway over government procedures and policies unfit for a democracy. Does Weisberg think any one or a generation of successive Presidents is going to be able to set right what the Bush regime has wrought? Any new President will not be able to purge the Supreme Court of the witless hacks Bush has placed there. Worse, the deep penetration of appointments vetted more for their sympathy to "Christian" evangelical views than for any abilities is not easily uprooted and dispensed with. Weisberg may have well fulfilled the mandate he set himself, but as far as the author's concerned, that will all pass into history's assessment when Bush leaves office. The effect on society will endure. [stephen a. haines - Ottawa, Canada]

** with thanks to Thomas Keneally

Simple but elegantly written, 20 Nov 2008
Obama completely embraces the importance of effective communication as reflected on this book. I like the part where he realized how important is saying the right words and get the people's undivided attention to what he is saying.

Best Book I've read in 10 yrs., 20 Nov 2008
He describes his childhood to manhood in such a sensitive & interesting way. An honest & frank look at race issues that he had to consider due to his mixed race & ancestry. Until I'd read the book, I hadn't realised how deep he was. I Highly Recommend this book! Once I started it , I then looked forward to my next train journeys, to get the next instalment. And its now solved my Xmas gift ideas! I'm buying 10 x copies for friends & family. Great Writer!

Touching and sincere, 16 Nov 2008
This book was written so beutifully, that even the most mundane information evokes emotions that can't be explained. The chapter in which he describes his only memories of his father from about age ten is the part that really got me. Obama shares the memory of the one and only time his father taught him to dance. "Come Barry,my father said. "You will learn from the master" And suddenly his slender body was swaying back and forth, the lush sound was rising, his arms were swinging...." I became teary eyed while reading that part on the tube on the way to a job interview. I felt sorry that this young boy held onto all that he could of his father. Obama goes onto describe many years of his child and adult life. This is a must read for book fans, even if Obama hadn't become the first black American president he was still one hell of a writer.

Moving,engaging and inspiring, 15 Nov 2008
I have just finished President elect Obama's book. I could not put it down,and could not believe it was written by a politician.

He gives an honest account of his journey into his self, and search for his identity and roots.

I feel I have a real sense of the man, after reading this book. He is self aware, and I enjoyed his ability to share his struggles with readers.I could pick up on his sense of sadness, and confusion in his journey.


His work in the South side of Chicago, definitely gave him the grounding for the brilliant campaign he ran for the presidency.

I particularly enjoyed his description of his journey to Kenya, which I have travelled to several times.

This is definitely one of the best memoirs I have read.He writes with sensitivity,and is able to connect with his readers.

It gives me a lot of insight into the values,and background of the next president of the United States.



Perceptive, sensitive, funny, self-ironic, 13 Nov 2008
This was an unexpectedly fantastic read: how could a man who (later)decided to go into politics be so honest, so self-searching, so willing to explore beneath the surfaces? The fact that the author is now the US president-elect makes it all the more intriguing, but the autobiography is wonderful even without that extra 'icing on the cake'. Obama has a sensitivity to his own and others' weaknesses and strengths; he sees through the facade but is forgiving of people's foibles. What he has to say about being of mixed race is very much worth listening to: all those who just don't get the problems in US ghettoes or African countries might learn something here. His search for his own identity--the archetypical hero's journey to find the father--is both funny and very touching; the immense disappointment becomes a source of knowledge and wisdom. This is a man who crosses many bridges: between black and white, men and women, 'West' and 'Third World', past and present. Buy it--and enjoy it!

Top drawer yet again, 08 Nov 2008
After reading Dominique Enwright's excellent biography on Winston Churchill I had high hopes for this.I was not disappointed because this is fantastic addition to that book.
The thing that I like about her books on Chuchill is the fact that they aren't overblown at all.They stick to the basic facts and hold your interest throughout.This fine effort showcases the wit of the great man in an easy to follow way and I have no hesitation in giving this a full five stars to go alongside Ms. Enwright's first book.
There are many books out there about Churchill but I doubt you will find two finer ones simply because they are so easy to digest.Very highly recommended.

flavor minus ingredients, 06 Mar 2008
a beautful cover and many mistakes in the text. no attribution for many quotes either.

Very enjoyable, 12 Feb 2008
This relatively small book is divided into several sections with slices from Churchill's life and quotations related to politics, speaches, friends, animals, family, etc.

Here are few excerpts:

While campaigning in 1900, it is said that the young Churchill was doing a spot of canvassing when one of those he approached exclaimed:

"Vote for you? Why, I'd rather vote for the Devil!"

"I understand", Churchill answered, "But in case your friend is not running, may I count on your support?"

* * *

When passed a very long but turgidly written memorandum on some worthy but uninspiring subject, the elderly Prime Minister weighed the thick wad of paper in his hands and commented, "This paper by its very length defends itself against the risk of being read."

* * *

Churchill liked animals; sometimes he found this difficult to reconcile with his fondness for rich food. Anthony Montague Brown recalled that 'One Christmas he was about to carve a goose. Learning it was one of his own, he put down the knife and fork and said, "I could not possibly eat a bird that I have known socially."

* * *

A BBC broadcaster described once sitting next to Churchill as he gave a speech, keeping his audience hanging on to his every word. The boradcaster noticed, howver, that what appeared to be notes in Churchill's hand was only a laundry slip, and he later remarked upon this to Churchill. "Yes", said Churchill. "It gave confidence to my audience."

WHEN PARLIAMENT SPARKLED, 10 Jan 2008
Anyone watching the televised proceedings from Parliament could be forgiven for nodding off, given the uninspiring nature of much of the proceedings, and the mundane characters who participate. If you want a glimpse of what we're missing this book is essential reading. Winston Churchill was one of the great characters of the House, at a time when there was no shortage of such people. He is quoted as saying, of the then Russian Foreign Minister, "I have never seen a human being who more perfectly represented the modern concept of a robot". I can't help feeling that, were he a sitting MP today, he'd find no shortage of candidates to fit that description. This book lives up to its title.

The Great British Patriot, 24 Jan 2005
This book sums up almost all the great qualities of a man who for so many was one of the greatest Englishman who ever lived. Full of quotes of indeed great wit and humour as well as thought and intelligence. Just a short read of this book will keep you in the best of spirits, and will surely put you in a most patriotic mood. A brilliant read and a must have book.

Prezza: My enormous chip on my shoulder, 28 Oct 2008
I always had a sneaking regard for Prescott, yes he came across sometimes as a bit of a maverick but it made for a refreshing contrast to other politicians.

Oh how one book can change your opinion of a man! To be blunt this is not just a poor political biography but a very poor book all round - a lightweight book about a supposedly heavyweight politician, which is more at home amongst the shallow so-called celebs' biographies than amongst serious political tomes.

This review really can be summarised by changing the book's title to `Prezza: My enormous chip on my shoulder', and you really don't need any further information as to what this book is about.

I'm honestly not exaggerating when I say that virtually every other page documents his struggles with academia and the feeling that the whole world is a conspiracy against him, usually because of those `nasty Tory toffs'. Soon into the book, even though there is an element of sympathy regarding his lack of academic abilities, you start to say `yes, yes we know, we get the point, now move on'.

Everyone, according to poor John, is trying to stitch him up; Sky News, the Labour Party, Unions and even the Queen. His encounter with the Queen provided one of the humorous highlights of the book and its inclusion had the opposite effect on me than Prescott probably intended. Instead of, like me, appreciating essentially a fellow master politician at work, with the subtly, astuteness and professionalism that the Queen displayed in a possibly awkward situation, Prescott's response was; "She'd deliberately... caught me out".

Perhaps some will see this review as unduly harsh (and if Prescott's reading it, part of the worldwide conspiracy against him) but I have certain expectations regarding political biographies.

Essentially, politicians are the cream of the top in terms of ability and intellect and I expect their work to reflect that to an electorate who votes and pays for them, so that we get an idea how the system works and how decisions, which affect every part of our lives, were made. For example books by Thatcher, Tony Benn, Healey, and Churchill are essential reading as political works. This is not one of them.

Major political issues such as the Referendum in 1975 are skimmed over and it's hard to see, despite Prescott holding the honourable office of Deputy Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, what he actually did apart from be a marriage counsellor to Blair and Brown. Even this is mainly whitewashed over. This subject has been covered in depth elsewhere especially by Andrew Rawnsley in his excellent Servants of the People, but Prescott's version (and he was at the centre of it) is reduced to one chapter with little analysis or much detail.

In all, a disappointing book which only took me half a day to read and probably not much more time to write.

Prezza: My enormous chip on my shoulder, 09 Sep 2008
I always had a sneaking regard for Prescott, yes he came across sometimes as a bit of a maverick but it made for a refreshing contrast to other politicians.

Oh how one book can change your opinion of a man! To be blunt this is not just a poor political biography but a very poor book all round - a lightweight book about a supposedly heavyweight politician, which is more at home amongst the shallow so-called celebs' biographies than amongst serious political tomes.

This review really can be summarised by changing the book's title to `Prezza: My enormous chip on my shoulder', and you really don't need any further information as to what this book is about.

I'm honestly not exaggerating when I say that virtually every other page documents his struggles with academia and the feeling that the whole world is a conspiracy against him, usually because of those `nasty Tory toffs'. Soon into the book, even though there is an element of sympathy regarding his lack of academic abilities, you start to say `yes, yes we know, we get the point, now move on'.

Everyone, according to poor John, is trying to stitch him up; Sky News, the Labour Party, Unions and even the Queen. His encounter with the Queen provided one of the humorous highlights of the book and its inclusion had the opposite effect on me than Prescott probably intended. Instead of, like me, appreciating essentially a fellow master politician at work, with the subtly, astuteness and professionalism that the Queen displayed in a possibly awkward situation, Prescott's response was; "She'd deliberately... caught me out".

Perhaps some will see this review as unduly harsh (and if Prescott's reading it, part of the worldwide conspiracy against him) but I have certain expectations regarding political biographies.

Essentially, politicians are the cream of the top in terms of ability and intellect and I expect their work to reflect that to an electorate who votes and pays for them, so that we get an idea how the system works and how decisions, which affect every part of our lives, were made. For example books by Thatcher, Tony Benn, Healey, and Churchill are essential reading as political works. This is not one of them.

Major political issues such as the Referendum in 1975 are skimmed over and it's hard to see, despite Prescott holding the honourable office of Deputy Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, what he actually did apart from be a marriage counsellor to Blair and Brown. Even this is mainly whitewashed over. This subject has been covered in depth elsewhere especially by Andrew Rawnsley in his excellent Servants of the People, but Prescott's version (and he was at the centre of it) is reduced to one chapter with little analysis or much detail.

In all, a disappointing book which only took me half a day to read and probably not much more time to write.

Just what l'd hoped for, 13 Jul 2008
To start my rant, I'm not a Political Animal, and was hoping it
would not be full of policy decisions, more about his life.
I bought the book because l like John Prescott and think he's an
enigmatic person, and would love to meet him. I wasn't disappointed.
It's an amusing and entertaining read, he tell's of his life and how
he got to be where he was/is, as well as the egg incident.
Its not a heavy read. Sadly the New Statesman really pulled
it to pieces, which is one of the reasons l bought it.
If your not a John Prescott fan don't go anywhere near it.
But if you can forget Politics and read about the man,
l think you will enjoy it.
Personally I'm very happy I've read it, and it has put in
my mind what l thought about Mr Prescott to be correct,
he is a decent, honest, funny man.....and grumpy as he admits.


Pulling No Punches - that title is a joke, 14 Jun 2008
I thought from all the preview blurb that the book would be a 'warts and all' story. Instead I found it to be almost totally 'sanitised'. Warts that were mentioned were regarded as blips rather than serious issues and Prezza makes sure he comes across as 'one of the nice guys'.


Fantastic insight into a brilliant mind, 27 Oct 2008
I won't say much, as if you are looking at buying this book you will probably have some idea of who this guy is and what he represents.

I found this book touching, fascinating and terrifying. The wool really has been pulled over our eyes and many of our civil liberties taken away from us in the UK.

Read this book, it will open your eyes.

Excellent- a compelling and unique perspective on the Blair/9-11 era., 24 Aug 2008
Being the proverbial 'floating voter' I have a large and unbiased appetite when approaching the genre of 'Political diary'. Alan Clark's were deliciously frank and irreverent, John Major's autobiography (though not strictly a Diary) was noble yet suspiciously sanitized for me and the overblown Alistair Campbell opus last year frankly rather dull considering he was Britain's media Czar and spin-king. But Tony Benn is always excellent value for money. Coming from the old Coventry and Warwickshire automotive heartlands I recall an Uncle regaling me as a boy with stories of picking Mr Benn up at Coventry station and conducting a whistle-stop tour of various BL factories in the 1970s. He was hugely impressed with his concise ability to sum up the sheer morass of industrial rancour in the UK at the time. I had previously purchased the Benn tapes and was utterly engrossed in the nitty gritty 'content' and adversarial 'detail' of government. The face-to-face show downs with Wilson, Callaghan and Foot illustrate the 'profession' of the career politician better than any A Level guide to Government & Politics could. True, there are the usual 'hot-potatoes' that Tony embraces with the utopian - and almost naive- stance of an idealist. But perhaps we could do with one of two of idealists just now. The book has an epistolary feel to it with his observations, critiques and conclusions on everything from New Labour, Cameron (Blue Labour as he calls it), Bush, British celebrity culture and his day to day sketches and contemplations on life-sometimes hugely poignant and moving. I can't say that Tony has made me a card carrying Socialist, the dominant ideology of 'one-party' pragmatism we all now live under perhaps too strong for that but I certainly felt all the more richer and rewarded for the reading experience. I'd rank it in the same league as Alan Clark -though obviously for different reasons! Tony Benn remains among the very best political diarist's we have.


Totally compulsive, 31 Oct 2007
I found it difficult to stop reading this; many times I could have gone on and on if my train hadn't reached its destination or the bath water hadn't gone cold.
Benn is an interesting character and a rarity among politicians. He doesn't tow the party line, he doesn't necessarilly go along with conventional wisdoms - for that alone he should be commended. Coming from the right, I found this diary fascinating stuff. You'd struggle to buy another book that offered such a sustained, constructive, powerful attack on the policies of Tony Blair. How amusing that some of the most piercing criticism of the dreadful Blair has come from leftish sources, eg the Taking Liberties documentary or Greg Dyke's memoirs. And this is where this edition of the diaries triumphs, because, for so long, Benn has been wrong about so many things. Socialism for instance. Yet now -he's right! His criticisms of Blair are devastating, he's spot on time after time. On the subject of Europe, civil liberties and global warming (a particularly interesting passage) he's bang on too (even though he does at one point refer to Dublin as not being in the EU).
The writing style is curious: slightly arch, a little self-knowingly for public consumption, at times luvvie-like (lots of 'It was lovely!' exclamations), at times almost child-like. Benn may not have the intellect or dashing style of classic diarists like Kenneth Williams or Alan Clark, but he is never less than compelling.
It might be argued that these diaries are published too soon after they were written so cannot be edited with the knowledge we will have of these times in years to come. But they have an earthy pungency and also provide a particularly individual slant on contemporary events; it's fantastic that we can get inside the head of such a famous living political figure.
The diary also demonstrates Benn's phenomenal energy. Even at the age of 80 he's zipping round the country on an almost daily basis giving speeches and attending rallies. (I'd recommend this book for any pensioner who is feeling their life is over - Benn could give you heady inspiration.) This is a man who has suffered a great loss fairly recently and the incredible sadness of this, which pervades the book, does not stop him from pursuing his agenda.
A few final points: the index is not totally complete, eg Enoch Powell is mentioned four times in the book but only gets one reference in the back. Note how many times he quotes people as starting sentences with 'well'. And bear in mind that Benn can be arrogant and paint himself in the best possible light, being quite disengenous with his arguments. But then, he is a politician!

Unputdownably good, 31 Oct 2007
There are so few politicians who say what they think. Tony Benn is one of those who does and he does it so entertainingly. Ruth Winstone's editing is brilliant and completely invisible and the diaries themelves range from the touching and human to the crotchety. I'm not sure I'd want to live with TB for a week. But they are hilarious too, featuring his encounters with the kind of strange people he seems to attract, whether it's George Galloway or any number of nutcases on the bus. A tremendous read: makes you think, laugh and cry. Very easy to pick up and really hard to put down.

A somewhat flawed review of a flawed man, 17 Nov 2008
I have been intruiged about how George Bush was not only elected once, but re-elected as US president. So, in a bored moment, I bought this book. It promised much,and is worth a read, but cutting to the chase, it was fascinating but fairly distorted ... not by lack of trying, but by trying too hard. Everything was force fitted into a mould that had some truth in it, but was pushed too far. In a little more detail, the backstory was fascinating, the early years likewise, and you can certainly see how his thesis of a man who wants to emulate his father's course, but also draw sharp contrast and be thought of as his own man. Having done this groundwork, it felt like the period of the presidency was skated over, and through the lens of folks like Karl Rove and Dick Cheney. Even here it paints only a sketch of Condi Rice who feels an intruiging figure who, from the little I know, I thought should have been smart enough to provide a more guiding hand. The books written fairly well, but nothing like as well as one might interpret from the reviews.

So, one of the things I was left wondering was how it got the rave reviews it did on the cover - e.g the front cover has a quote from Malcolm Gladwell (he of 'The tipping point') - "Political drama, family history and psychological insight in dazzling combination. If you read one book about George W. Bush and his presidency, this should be it". That would be the same Malcolm Gladwell thanked in the Acknowledgements for his 'keen insights and editorial suggestions' would it? And, the one who dwelt on Jacob's mother Lois extensively within 'The Tipping Point'. So, hardly the disinterested observer that you might imagine.

But, he's in good company, since Jacob also thanks Joe Klein (Author of 'Primary Colors') for the benefits that have come from conversations with him (and others) ... and Joe turns up on the back cover saying 'Scorching, powerful and entirely plausible ... a beautifully written and erudite book, hilarious at times, a joy to read'. In terms of general reviews we have 'A serious, thought-provoking effort to penetrate what instinct tells us muct be an extraordinary family drama' from the Washington Post. Jacob is editor-in-chief of Slate Group, a division of The Washington Post Company in which I must presume the Washington Post is stabled. Maybe it's an innocent connection, but after two spun connections, I am a little skeptical.

But, for all the skepticism, still worth a read, and worth three stars

A Family Madness **, 16 Jun 2008
Drawing on some distorted form of Freudian analysis and dabbling in Shakespeare, Weisberg is at some pains to show how George W. Bush's family heritage formed the President's personality. The son is continually referencing his father in comments and actions, while at the same time trying to distance himself from the 41st President . This isn't the first effort along these lines, nor will it surely be the last. In this well-written, but terribly narrow assessment, the author carefully traces how W.'s actions are a reflection of his reactions to his President father.

The account opens with a summary history of the Bush and Walker families. Their rise