Product Description

In 1942 the United States War Department distributed a handbook to American Servicemen advising them on the peculiarities of the 'British, their country, and their ways'. The guide was intended to lessen the culture shock for those embarking on their first trip to Great Britain, and for the most part, abroad. The instructions are a wonderful interpretation of the differences between the two allies. By turns hilarious and poignant, many observations remain quaintly relevant today. Refreshingly candid quips leap from the pages - in a most un-British fashion: 'the British don't know how to make a good cup of coffee. You don't know how to make a good cup of tea. It's an even swap' Every page is full of enchantingly nostalgic advice and observations. Reproduced in a style reminiscent of the era, this is a wonderfully evocative war-time memento. The reader, from whatever country, will revel in the amusing and terrifically truthful American perception of the British character and country. Remember: The British are tough.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #20277 in Books
• Published on: 2004-09-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 31 pages

Review
'a perfect gift book' - Independent Publisher's Catalogue 'this book is full of charm and highlights the poignant contrast between two very different attitudes to life' - Lincolnshire Echo 'On seven pages of foolscap, in under 6,000 typewritten words, the unknown author drew up a guide to wartime Britain, and an Ordnance Survey map of its psyche' - The Daily Telegraph

Customer Reviews

Fascinating, charming, eye-opening
An unassuming enough publication, this small manilla book could easily get passed over while browsing. But take another look!

This book reproduces the guidance and instructions published by the US War Department and given to American servicemen on their way over to live in Britain during the second world war. Split into short sections like "Age before size", "British women at war", "The British like sports", "Indoor amusements", "Don't be a show off", "Waste means lives" and similar, this book provides a candid snapshot of American views of Britain and the British people. It also provides a guide to the differences between American and British language.

I found this book funny, fascinating and touching; a beautiful insight into the Britain of those war years, and into the concern of the American authorities that their servicemen should make the best impression on their hosts.

"It is always impolite to criticize your hosts; it is militarily stupid to criticize your allies."

Terrific 30 minute read in the pub
This was great. I picked it up by chance on my way back from doing the shopping. Flicked though a couple of pages in the book shop and had to stop to read it in a pub on the way home. Really fascinating - I learned a lot about war-time Britain in 30 mins. Very short, but a great read. Beautifully written, too. A great gift for your dad. Haven't read the France one yet, but going to order it now.

Brilliant insight to period: good for teenagers
I bought this as a stocking filler for my son when he was 12. He thought it was very amusing, because of the language, but it also prompted discussion over how things were then, and how they have changed. Provides a more lively insight into the effect of war in England, such as beer being weaker than in peacetime, and the price of whiskey going up to $[...] a bottle!

At his request, I have now ordered other books in the series: the American Guide to Australia and the British Serviceman in France, along with the Home Guard Manual.