Bournville by Jonathan Coe

Jonathan Coe is a British novelist and writer known for his satirical and often politically charged works. Born on 19 August 1961 in Birmingham, England, Coe has garnered acclaim for his ability to blend humour with incisive social commentary.

Rings of Power Season 2: 1-3

Despite improvements in writing and longer story segments, this series struggles to overcome its inherited plot issues. While not as bad as feared, it remains slow and unengaging. Poor lighting in dark scenes further detracts from the experience. Overall, it's hardly compelling, but curiosity may keep some viewers watching.
The Decline and Fall of the House of Twitter

The Decline and Fall of the House of Twitter

I first encountered Twitter at a 2008 science blogging conference, where it was hailed as the future of real-time data sharing. Initially, it was a vibrant platform for news and friendships, but over time, it became less enjoyable, especially post-Musk takeover. Now, I’m moving on to Bluesky.
Douglas Is Cancelled

Douglas Is Cancelled

"Douglas Is Cancelled" on ITV is a masterpiece of television. With a gripping plot, brilliant script, and outstanding performances, it explores how we navigate a world where every moment can be recorded. Addressing current issues like sexism and toxic masculinity, this four-hour series is both thought-provoking and highly entertaining.
The Liberation of Paris

The Liberation of Paris

The Liberation of Paris, 80 years ago, holds personal significance as my grandfather participated in it. Though not a tale of heroic combat, his role driving supplies to the front lines offers a unique perspective on this historic event. It shaped his life, turning him into a lifelong Francophile and influencing his post-war travels across France, Belgium, and Switzerland.
Showbiz Anecdote and the Kind of Person who becomes a Reform Activist

Showbiz Anecdote and the Kind of Person who becomes a Reform Activist

In the summer of 1983 I became the first member of my family to be awarded a degree. I returned to the seaside town I grew up in with the letters BSc(Hons) after my name. I then became the first member of my family to sign up on the dole. The poor economic prospects of the inhabitants of coastal resorts are fairly well known nowadays, but back then it was something that was obvious enough if you lived in one but which weren’t that well known in the rest of the country. But nonetheless it was a frustrating time. The only source of work I had access to was the Job Centre which offered the odd paid gig for which there was considerable competition. I did a bit of moving of office furniture.

What We Owe The Future by William MacAskill

What We Owe The Future by William MacAskill


MacAskill, a Scottish philosopher and a leading figure in the Effective Altruism movement, challenges traditional notions of philanthropy by advocating for thoughtful and strategic giving. He suggests that when you’re feeling compassionate, you should engage your head rather than your heart.

Humankind by Rutger Bregman

Humankind by Rutger Bregman

This is a book of two halves. I read the first 200 pages I enjoyed and it kept me turning the pages. But they were very much the typical pop science or pop history paradigm. The author has some new or newish take on the standard view of things and explains why his ideas are better than the old ones. This is a trope that gets used a lot. To be fair, it does give the writing an edge, but it usually relies on oversimplifying the current understanding. I’d probably use it myself, to be honest, but even so, it does grate a bit.

Thatcher – Hero, Villain or Idiot?

Thatcher – Hero, Villain or Idiot?

Margaret Thatcher remains a towering figure in British politics, revered by her supporters as a visionary leader who transformed the U.K.’s economic landscape. Fondly remembered as the “Iron Lady,” Thatcher is praised for her staunch resolve and unwavering commitment to free-market principles, which many credit with revitalizing the British economy during her tenure as Prime Minister from 1979 to 1990.

Why the Reform Party will be a Damp Squib

Why the Reform Party will be a Damp Squib

Predicting elections is a mug’s game. They often surprise everyone, and there are some striking examples from recent UK history. For instance, during the Brexit referendum, you could still get odds of 8 to 1 on Remain winning while the votes were being counted. Similarly, Theresa May entered the 2017 General Election with a lead in the polls of around 20%, but still lost her majority on the day itself. People are fickle, and it seems like they’re becoming even more so. Even though the Labour Party has maintained a lead of around 20% for nearly a year and the Conservatives have hit their worst poll numbers ever, I still wouldn’t rule out the possibility of an upset that keeps the Tories in power.