Notes from a Small Island

by Bill Bryson
Notes from a Small Island cover
Good Books rating 3.67
Biography and Memoir
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  • ID: 6183
  • Added: 2025-11-04
  • Updated: 2025-11-29
  • ISBN: 9781784161194
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2015-01-01
  • Formats: 3
  • Reviews: 3

In 1995, Bill Bryson embarked on a sentimental journey around Britain before moving back to the States, aiming to capture the essence of the island that had been his home. His observations are a delightful mix of wit and warmth, highlighting the unique character of Britain through its people, places, and peculiarities./n/nBryson's book has become a beloved classic, selling over two million copies and offering a nostalgic yet insightful look at British culture. His humorous and affectionate tone makes this a must-read for anyone who appreciates the charm of everyday life in Britain.

Reviews
The Book Bag · 2025-11-04
entertaining 3.00

The book is good as light entertainment but don't expect particularly beautiful prose nor deep insights. It's an enjoyable read for those looking for a casual, humorous take on Britain.

The Book Bag reviewer found the book to be a good light read, perfect for those looking for a humorous and entertaining take on Britain. While it may not offer deep insights or beautiful prose, it serves as a fun and engaging exploration of the UK's quirks and charm. The reviewer suggests it as a good choice for casual reading, especially for those who enjoy travelogues with a humorous twist.

Quick quotes

    Overall, OK as light entertainment but don't expect particularly beautiful prose nor deep insights.

    You might also enjoy Mr Gig by Nige Tassell or Scotland the Brave by David McCullough if you like this sort of thing.

    The book is a fun and engaging exploration of the UK's quirks and charm.

Dana Huff · Dana · 2023-03-17
mixed 3.50

The book has its moments with humor and insight, but it's not one of Bryson's best works. It's a bit of an unrelated coda to his other books.

Dana found parts of the book enjoyable, with moments of humor and insight that made it a pleasant read. However, they felt that it lacked the depth and coherence of some of Bryson's other works. The book serves as a lighthearted exploration of Britain, but it doesn't quite live up to the high standards set by his previous writings. Dana recommends it for casual reading but not as a standout piece in Bryson's bibliography.

Quick quotes

    I liked parts of the book and even chuckled a few times (hence 3½ stars), but overall, it's not one of Bryson's best.

    A bit of an unrelated coda to his other books.

    The book is a lighthearted exploration of Britain, but it doesn't quite live up to the high standards set by his previous writings.

Emma Travels with Books · Emma · 2021-01-20
enlightening 4.50

The book is a success because it was written by an outsider who expertly conveys the curious and sometimes bewildering aspects of British culture. The author's perspective provides a unique and insightful look at the UK.

Emma really enjoyed how the book offers a fresh perspective on British culture. As an outsider, the author captures the quirks and nuances of the UK in a way that is both entertaining and enlightening. The book is not just a travelogue but a cultural commentary that highlights the charm and idiosyncrasies of the island. Emma found the insights into British life to be particularly fascinating and the writing style engaging.

Quick quotes

    This book is a success because it was written by an outsider who expertly conveys the curious and sometimes bewildering aspects of our culture.

    Bryson's observations are both humorous and insightful, making the book a delightful read.

    The book offers a unique perspective on British life that is both entertaining and enlightening.

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