A brilliantly researched and gripping history of the BBC, from its origins to the present day.

'The book could scarcely be better or better timed. It is elegantly written, closely argued, balanced, pulls no punches.'
MELVYN BRAGG, GUARDIAN

Charlotte Higgins, the Guardian's chief culture writer, steps behind the polished doors of Broadcasting House and investigates the BBC. Based on her hugely popular essay series, this personal journey answers the questions that rage around this vulnerable, maddening and uniquely British institution. Questions such as: what does the BBC mean to us now? What are the threats to its continued existence? Is it worth fighting for?

Higgins traces its origins, celebrating the early pioneering spirit and unearthing forgotten characters whose imprint can still be seen on the BBC today. She explores how it forged ideas of Britishness both at home and abroad. She shows how controversy is in its DNA and brings us right up to date through interviews with grandees and loyalists, embattled press officers and high profile dissenters, and she sheds new light on recent feuds and scandals.

This is a deeply researched, lyrically written, intriguing portrait of an institution at the heart of Britain.

'Engrossing.' EVENING STANDARD
'Beautifully written'. THE SPECTATOR
'Exactly observed and beautifully written.' MAIL ON SUNDAY
'A loving portrait . . . never creaks with excess.' FINANCIAL TIMES
'A pleasingly intricate jigsaw of biography, politics, and opinion.' INDEPENDENT
'Excellent and enthralling . . . informative, educational and entertaining.' GUARDIAN

A brilliantly researched and gripping history of the BBC, from its origins to the present day.

About the Author
Charlotte Higgins was born in Stoke-on-Trent and studied Classics at Balliol College, Oxford. Her last book, Under Another Sky, was shortlisted for the 2013 Samuel Johnson Prize, the Thwaites Wainwright Prize and the 2014 Dolman Travel Book Award.


Book Information
ISBN 9781783350728
Author Charlotte Higgins
Format Paperback
Page Count 288
Imprint Guardian Faber Publishing
Publisher Guardian Faber Publishing
Weight(grams) 90g
Dimensions(mm) 200mm * 130mm * 5mm