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Notes From a Small Island

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Notes From a Small Island

By: Bill Bryson
Narrated by: William Roberts
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About this listen

Featuring a special introduction written for the audiobook edition and read by the author

After nearly two decades in Britain, Bill Bryson, the acclaimed author of such best sellers as The Mother Tongue and Made in America, decided it was time to move back to the United States for a while. This was partly to let his wife and kids experience life in Bryson's homeland, and partly because he had read that 3.7 million Americans believed that they had been abducted by aliens at one time or another. It was thus clear to him that his people needed him. But before leaving his much-loved home in North Yorkshire, Bryson insisted on taking one last trip around Britain, a sort of valedictory tour of the green and kindly island that had so long been his home. His aim was to take stock of modern-day Britain, and to analyze what he loved so much about a country that had produced Marmite, zebra crossings, and place names like Farleigh Wallop, Titsey, and Shellow Bowells. With wit and irreverence, Bill Bryson presents the ludicrous and the endearing in equal measure. The result is a social commentary that conveys the true glory of Britain.

©1995 Bill Bryson (P)2014 Audible, Inc. Europe Travel Writing & Commentary Western Europe Funny Witty Feel-Good Thought-Provoking
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Loved the book! it resonates with my affection for the UK and I often found myself chuckling at Bryson's observations of British habits and British people's character. Very well read, too

both very funny and lovely

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Hugely enjoyable listen but lilt spoiled by Bryson not reading it. His other books benefit from his reading. Otherwise well worth it

Great narrative, shame it's not read by the author

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What made the experience of listening to Notes From a Small Island the most enjoyable?

I found it emotional and very funny from beginning to end. I love Bill Bryson's observations wherever he is and whatever subject he is addressing.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Notes From a Small Island?

I laughed till I cried when in Scotland.

What does William Roberts bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you had only read the book?

He captured the essence of the book and related it perfectly. I'm now a fan of his.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

The appreciation of things we take for granted, as seen from a fresh perspective.

Any additional comments?

If you want a feeling of pride and a mixture of emotions, this book is a must.

When I need to smile, I will return to this.

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What made the experience of listening to Notes From a Small Island the most enjoyable?

William Roberts narration is excellent, bringing each individual anecdote to life. Embarrassingly, i found myself laughing out loud in public.

What did you like best about this story?

Bill Bryson has hit on an excellent formula for travel writing. The sbort anecdotes make it easy to pick up and put down in short bursts without losing the thread.

Have you listened to any of William Roberts’s other performances? How does this one compare?

Not heard him before but thoroughly enjoyed his potrayal. To me he is Bryson.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

I enjoyed whole thing from start to finish. I am now working my way through the whole Bryson catalogue.

Any additional comments?

This was first audible book. Due to deteriorating eyesight, I have been able to discover 'reading' again.

Amusing anecdotes had me laughing out loud.

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a bit repetitive. same observations over and over. nothing really happens. apart from that, there are a few interesting passages.

a bit ordinary

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