Clubland

'Pete Brown is a brilliant master of ceremonies as he brings the history of these fine institutions to life and demonstrates their importance in working class communities across the country.' Alan Johnson, author of This Boy 'A compelling mixture of social history, vivid reportage and candid autobiography, Clubland makes a crucial contribution to our understanding of Britain in the last century and a half.' David Kynaston, author of Austerity Britain 'Leave any flat-capped cliches at the door: Brown offers an earnest exploration of this crucially formative area of British social history.' John Warland, author of Liquid History 'Pete Brown writes poetically and with great authority on a slice of culture that has been ignored or derided for many years. He illuminates these arts centres, debating halls and palaces of carefree delight with love and care.' Ian McMillan, author of Neither Nowt Nor Summat 'At last the working men's club gets its turn in the cultural spotlight. Pete Brown has written an important history and a heartfelt tribute to the friendship, organisation, humour and community to be found in these remarkable institutions.' Ian Clayton, author of It's The Beer Talking: Adventures in Public Houses Praise for Pete Brown... 'The beer drinkers' Bill Bryson.' Times Literary Supplement 'Brimming with fascinating stories and forgotten characters.' The Guardian 'Brown's enthusiasm is infectious.' The Sunday Times 'Brown's writing has a pleasingly loose-limbed feel.' The Observer 'Brown writes beautifully ... his observations are fresh and provocative.' Financial Times 'Big beery fun.' The Times 'Engaging.' Daily Mail 'Part Nigel Slater, part Bill Bryson, and wholly delicious.' Mail on Sunday