This was the first book i read by Bill Bryson. It was a cold rainy day in Marbella, Spain, when the barman gave me this to help relieve my boredom. I read it cover to cover in just two days, and was inspired there and then to start writing more seriously, and upon my return finished my first manuscript, Down Mexico Way.

A comical look at England. Bill Bryson decides after 10 years in England to uproute his family and return to America. But before this, he takes one last journey around the country that has been his home for last decade.

A friend gave me this book before I set off on my first journey around Irland. A hilarious account of a wacky adventure. The way the Irish people take Tony into their hearts and pubs, is a true testament to their good nature. It was from this book that I first learned of the King of Tory, and set off on a perlious adventure to meet Ireland's last remaining monarch.

Rough guides are a refreshing change from the usual database listing of things to do and see. This book captures the spirit of this beautiful country perfectly. Well researched and wonderfully written.

A very useful guide to Ireland's sacred monuments. I used this while researching locations for Mysterious World: Ireland. Extremely detailed.

Once again Bill Bryson does it again. Bill takes his unique wit and travels around Australia. Highly recommended.