This is the second of Clarkson's books that I've read. He writes very well, with humour and plenty of witty and intelligent observation.
I do like the actual 'physical' book too. It is divided into five or six page easy-read chapters, that are taken from his weekly articles in The Sunday Times. The print size is also good, and the simple illustrations are to the point. It is a perfectly readable book, that can be picked-up and put-down at will. Perfect for an on/off reader like myself; or for the beach..
He writes mostly about agriculture; one of his recent ventures being his own farm called 'Diddly Squat'. But this particular book is more about his new Pub'; 'The Farmer's Dog'. If you wish to know why so many Pub's are closing, Clarkson gives us clear and understandable answers. He explains why both beer-drinking and farming, under the Socialists, are in peril. but I've already explained about all that previously! He, himself, has managed to choose two of the most endangered occupations.
This book was a Christmas present, but I've only just begun reading it.
Some years ago Clarkson was being hailed as the best Prime Minister we never had. With common sense by the bucket load in this book, I'd have to agree. He also knows a bit about cars. He was the man who described my car as a 'Pensioner's Shopping Car'; he was right about that too.
I didn't watch his car programmes but enjoyed the farm ones. On your recommendation I will.look out for his farm books.
ReplyDeleteThey are both funny and informative. He doesn't hold back!
DeleteHe's always an entertaining read.
ReplyDeleteHe is indeed. I always read his piece in the Sunday Times; you get more info and common sense from him than anyone else (almost).
DeleteI've never really warmed to Mr Clarkson, not watched any programmes he presents on the box. But I am picking up his common sense down to earth jovial demeanour on his farm videos. He is standing up for British farming and that's good enough for me.
ReplyDeleteI would add that he's sticking up for the British people in general. Like most folk, he's fed-up with all the people-bashing from this government.
DeleteThis older version of Clarkson I like, his output on farming is brilliant, I have read his first book, I really disliked him on Top Gear, I think he has grown up into an articulate voice for rural Britain and so many of us.
ReplyDeleteYou have to be a serious 'petrol head' to like his old Top Gear programmes. He's better now.
DeleteWe loved his farming shows and he really brings attention to how hard it is for farmers and now also for the future of pubs.
ReplyDeleteThere were some wonderful characters in his TV farm show. He seems to attract them!
DeleteI always enjoyed reading his column in the Sunday Times. Top Gear was a "boys and their toys" on TV, but l have laughed at some of the antics on the special edition one-off programmes. Haven't had chance to see his farming programme but have followed his trials and tribulations on news channels. I hope he is successful in his fight to save his pub.
ReplyDeleteThe battles he faces over his Pub' are horrendous. Even the amount of stolen glasses costs him £thousands. It's as if he's being attacked on all sides.
DeleteI enjoyed his television programmes. He had had a great wit and humour. I admire his audacity too. The book obviously tells it exactly as he sees it. A good read no doubt
ReplyDeleteYes, he doesn't hold back. I really enjoyed reading it.
DeleteI have read several of his books, he is a very talented writer. And I enjoyed the car shows. The opening 5 minutes of the first episode of the Grant Tour is one of the best. Especially if you know the background, that he had only months before been fired by the BBC.
ReplyDeleteSome of his shows were really memorable. Driving a Reliant Robin, launching the Rocket, in the USA with a whole Cow on his roof rack, etc. They were wonderful.
Delete