The Great British Dream Factory: The Strange History of Our National Imagination, Audiobook Review |
Written by: Dominic Sandbrook
Narrated by: David Thorpe Length: 23 hrs and 21 mins Release Date:02-02-16 Publisher: Audible Studios |
Review by Paul Fiander
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There has always been a part of me that has thought “ for a small island we have seemingly always punched above our weight". From the technological breakthroughs of the industrial revolution to the vast British empire the impact that Britain has made is sometimes hard to appreciate. However in this day and age the impact on the world of the British has changed and this is the focus of Dominic Sandbrook’s book. It's a look at the global impact of British popular culture from the Victorian era until the present day.
The range of topics covered include literature, games, television, film, arts, music and more. With names diverse as HG Wells, JRR Tolkien, J Arthur Rank, Elton John, Black Sabbath, The Beatles, Tracey Emin, Charles Dickens and Samuel Smiles to name but a few This book is not a complete look at the creative Talent of Great Britain but it's a pretty. extensive list of the individuals that have shaped both National and International popular culture. |
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This however is not a list of who’s who in the entertainment instead it tries to get the core of the why and the how these national stars became international stars. The supporting ideas are compelling to say the least and the research done by the author is extensive. There are names that may not be familiar to all but after listening I can not deny the compulsion I had to complete a spot of further research on some the remarkable characters contained within. For me that is the ideal state to finish a nonfiction book, wanting to learn more about the subject matter due to the author's craft in igniting your interest.
Sanbrook himself feels to have rather strong opinions and some appear to fly against the general consensus of most casual observers. His thoughts on diverse topics from Harry Potter to John Lennon to Maggie Thatcher all have the feel of controversy but again the supporting facts are hard to dispute. These ideas do seem to make our narrator change his tone on more than one occasion bringing something of a performance to proceedings. This is aided by the valiant attempt David Thorpe gives with some of his impressions. His Beatle’s scouse is genuinely funny at times but never at an inappropriate moment. The natural style of the narration allows this monster of a book coming in at just 23 hours to feel shorter than it actually is. Overall this is a great listen, the balance of entertainment and information give the book a rather unique feel. Although this is essentially British book it will appeal to anyone interested in entertainment and culture. |
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