Released: 9th June 2021
Genre: Non-Fiction, Politics, Society, Travel
Number of Pages: 353
Using the trains in Great Britain is a difficult and often frustrating experience for many; following the privatisation of the railways in the 1990s, passengers are often treated to confusing timetables, frequent delays and ever-increasing fares. How did we get here? Christian Wolmar has many answers in the aptly titled “British Rail”.
From 1923 all the way to the 21st Century, the author details the rise and fall of British Rail, showing the major financial struggles, changes in leadership and the attitudes of both government and the population at large. This history lesson is complemented by two picture sections that show the evolution of logos, national marketing, and staff uniforms. The core thread of the book is how the railway system has gone through so much over the last century. Decisions both good and bad have influenced operations, pressure from both political parties and lobbying groups have steered it in odd directions and public perception has constantly shifted.
From the disappointment of rail closures all the way to the peak of operating efficiency it’s a very comprehensive chronicle that explains all the major events, key players and societal shifts across the decades. Every element is woven together on a detailed timeline that covers a broad spectrum. If anything, the book packs in so much detail that it may become overwhelming for casual readers, especially when it comes to the more complex wording. Having some awareness of UK history and politics alongside a hint of business acumen is a major benefit when reading through.
Recommended?
YES: British Rail is quite compact at less than 400 pages (excluding the bibliography and references), but it packs in a ton of detail from a wide array of sources and topics. The descriptions can be wordy and technical at times, but if you’re a regular user of trains for commuting or general travel throughout the UK, the book is a must-read. If you want to know why the railways are the way they are, Wolmar’s release has everything you’re looking for.
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