Refreshing and enjoyable but makes you wonder
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3.5 stars really. The author is fun to watch in action on TV. He is not afraid to speak his mind and has a unique turn of phrase when critcally examining something. He writes in much the same way. In fact, you sometimes catch yourself reading like Clarkson talks - complete with the pregnant pauses!
A light-hearted read, really. I did find some of the explanations/comments frustrating though. There is a chapter on Australia with a few outlandish statements that could be read as fact when they're not. Outlandish statements are, of course, pure, classic Clarkson but it got me thinking what else in the book (several countries I am not too familiar with) was really an embellishment - a "Clarksonism".
But then, that'd be regarding this book seriously which it certainly isn't. If you've been doing some heavy reading of late or enjoy Clarkson's take on the world, or even just want a laugh from a different type of travel book, then this book is a good choice. Makes me want to watch the Motorworld TV series.
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100% of Britishness
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Top Gear is a BBC TV series that does not need recommendation. I was not sure what to expect from a book though. But when I opened the book I simply couldn't put it down. It is so refreshing, funny, addictive. I have been to at least half of the places the author describes. But the way he does it (LOL at every other line) and the observations he makes make it so special. Finally, the language is 100% English, which is the REAL beauty of this book. Recommended to all the motorization fans but also all those who are interested in foreign places or just want to have some fun.
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A Clarkson Classic
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This is the perfect book, full of wit and humour typical of Clarkson's personality. Even for people who aren't keen on cars, this book is for you. It's brilliantly written and brings a smile to my face everytime I think of a comment he's made in this superb book. Quite old the book may be, but it's always an entertaining read, which has resulted in me desperately wanting to purchase Clarkson's other publishings.
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Fantastic!
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I love Jeremy Clarkson's style and wit and this book made me cry with laughter. I can picture his voice when reading it which makes it all the funnier. I love cars but even if this is not the case for you, it is a definite recommended read. I even made my boyfriend read it which believe me is a feat in itself (he doesnt like reading)and even he is now reading other Clarkson books. If you're sick of PC rubbish and like the idea of some refreshing and individual thoughts then read this book. Go Clarkson!
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Refreshing
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I have no interest in cars whatsoever. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Jeremy Clarkson is opinionated and outspoken, a rare quality amongst the politically correct English. Added to that, he is also very witty. Love him or hate him at least you get a laugh. How many obnoxious people do you know who make you laugh? The book is great if you don't have much time as each chapter is independant of the other so you can pick it up, read a chapter and put it down again without feeling like you're messing up the flow of some novel. Jeremy confesses he is prone to exaggeration and some of his episodes have to be read to be believed. The chapter on Detroit comes to mind. Thoroughly entertaining though. Well worth a read.
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