No holds barred

Whether you love or loathe John Bercow, you have to respect the blunt honesty in the way that he has approached the subjects laid bare in his book. He has not been afraid to promote his successes as a person, but neither has he been shy to admit to the errors that he has made and apologise for them. His views on his colleagues and government policies are certainly not to everyone's taste, but they are his honest opinion and quite possibly, that of many others too. This book will appeal to many who are interested in UK politics and the functioning of Westminster, and will possibly rile the 'Dyed in the wool' Brexit supporter. For those without blinkered political views in these strange times for the UK, this book should appeal - even if just to help give a little broadening of the whole picture. I had not been a massive fan of John Bercow whilst in the chair, though my respect for him grew with his handling of the Brexit fiasco. His book has allowed me to increase my level of respect for him and I hope that others will feel the same if they read/listen to this book. Many of those that have given the lowest review score, quite probably have either not read/listened to the book or were never in the mind to give a positive review due to hard bias towards the man and his methods! I would urge doubters to give the book a proper chance and to make their own options once completed, rather than to take it for read, that you should not bother! Controversial, but honest and overall an eye opener about the people that we vote in and trust to run the UK. It will make you think carefully about who you should help to elect next time around.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

8 people found this helpful

Better than David Cameron's effort.

I found this an interesting listen. At no point did I find it a struggle. It is well delivered and touches on areas that are of interest from this interesting character. The peaks behind the veil of impartiality are also good and sprinkled throughout.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

3 people found this helpful

Must be read several times

One of the most interesting books I have ever read. Certainly to be read multiple times !!!

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

1 person found this helpful

Courage Calls for Courage Everywhere

A close up view of democracy and the dynamics within Parliament. Essential reading for all.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

1 person found this helpful

Very Informative and Enjoyable

I did not know much about Bercow and only remember him for one speech in the 1990's.

After becoming speaker, his neutral and fair posistion during Brexit votes made him noticed.

In this audiobook he takes you from his early days through to now. Whats really outstanding is the way he describes all the events with incredible clarity and most importantly sincerity.

If you feel that politics is all the same and there are no politicians with principle then you should take time to listen to this book.

I enjoyed book and will recommend it.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

1 person found this helpful

AMAZING

interesting at every point
gives real insight
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED to anyone interested in UK politics

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Much better than expected

I really enjoyed this audio book. whether you agree with his views or not you cannot argue with his broad knowledge and experience in the houses of commons. Felt I had a better understanding of our political system at the end of the book. excellent Mr Bercow.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

3 people found this helpful

Unspeakable? No Way!

A candid, honest and enlightening read, would recommend to all, my teenagers and my father have all devoured it.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

1 person found this helpful

A good account of Bercow’s personal and political life

Bercow admits to being somewhat long-winded even within the book. At times I feel he ought to have been more concise than he was but anyone who is a fan of Bercow knows not to expect that of him.

I deduced 1 star from Theresa May’s book due to her excessive attacks on Bercow, and I feel compelled to do the same to Bercow in response to his excessive attacks on May. Evidently, the two detest each other.

Other than the above, I feel this book is a good account of Bercow’s life and it covers both his personal life and his political career. I enjoyed this book very much.

Given all the above: a 4-star rating is in ordeeeeeerr.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

1 person found this helpful

Brilliant informative book, superbly read.

In this book, John gives us an excellent insight into our democracy, our MPs on all sides and the processes within our Parliament. He opens up about his background and personality with bare honesty, showing us his journey to position of Speaker, the responsibilities of the role and highlights of his 10 years. Many of us have taken a newly found interest in our Parliament due to the contentious events of the last 5 years and John's book also enlightens us to the progression of how we got to where we are today!

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!