The Way It Was: Life in Elizabeth's Britain, 1952-1979

Matthew Engel's book "The Reign: Life in Elizabeth's Britain" provides a powerful illumination of a lost world that is nevertheless part of living memory, covering major historical events and everyday life in post-war Britain.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 640 pages
Publication date: 31 August 2023
Publisher: Atlantic Books

A captivating exploration of a bygone era that remains intertwined with our collective memory, Simon Heffer's Books of the Year selection in the Daily Telegraph, Daily Mail, and New Statesman shines a brilliant light on a forgotten world. Delving into post-war Britain, this joyous new book offers a vibrant portrayal of the nation's transformation.

When Queen Elizabeth II ascended to the throne in 1952, Britain was a global empire, led by Winston Churchill, rationing sweets, and children playing on bomb sites. However, the years that followed witnessed a seismic shift in British society. Matthew Engel, through meticulous research, insightful interviews, and his personal recollections, unveils this remarkable transformation like never before. Spanning from the death of King George VI to the eve of Margaret Thatcher's election, Engel encompasses a wide range of historical events while delving into the intricacies of everyday life. From the food we consumed and the stores we frequented to the television shows we watched and the newspapers we read, Engel paints a vivid picture of these three decades, infusing them with his own lighthearted touch and a wealth of captivating, forgotten, and often humorous details.

Originally published as "The Reign: Life in Elizabeth's Britain," this captivating work offers a fresh perspective on a bygone era, reminding us of the rich tapestry of our shared history.

Weight: 530g
Dimension: 129 x 198 x 43 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781786496690
Edition number: Main