Publisher's Synopsis
When it comes to Britain, most Americans don't know (Union) Jack. Fortunately, now an Anglo-American husband-and-wife team are here to help with a smart, funny, and handy guide that minds the gap between fact and fiction. From Whigs and Windsors to wankers and Wales, this spit-spot-on reference covers all manner of British history, society, culture, language, and everyday life, including
the class system, title envy, and a thumbnail sketch of British dynasties
highlights of the social season (yes, they have a social season)
Parliament, prime ministers, and a wild variety of political parties
British sports 101, including football (by which we mean soccer), cricket, rugby, snooker, and darts
answers to the pressing question: What's on the telly?
British culinary delights, from Marmite to late-night tikka masala
odd pronunciations (e.g., how "St. John" becomes "Sin Jun")
cockney slang, or why you should never get caught "telling porkies on the dog"
Londoners' pride in the Tube and the truth about trainspotting
So whether you're traveling to England on business or for pleasure, dating a Brit, hoping to comfort a homesick Londoner (whip up a treacle tart, recipe included), or simply curious about life across the pond, Britannia in Brief is the perfect companion.
