Boris Johnson
Boris Johnson is an established British politician known for his bold, often humorous take on issues. He is a celebrated author, having written several books over the years. His books range from political biographies to comic novels, giving readers a unique and entertaining insight into the inner works of British politics.
Born in 1964, Johnson grew up in the exclusive suburban area of Islington and is the son of Stanley Johnson and the artist Charlotte Johnson Wahl. He studied at both Oxford and Balliol College. He received his early education from the prestigious Ashdown House, a school in Sussex.
Johnson's career began with a stint as a writer and editor at The Daily Telegraph newspaper in the late 1980s. He then became the Telegraph's Brussels correspondent, during which time he wrote several articles lambasting the European Union. During his time as Europe editor, he was also a political commentator on many television shows.
In 2001, Johnson was elected as MP for the safe Tory constituency of Henley-on-Thames. He served as shadow minister before being appointed by the still-new Prime Minister, David Cameron, as Shadow Secretary of State for Transport in the 2005 general election. Soon after, he became the mayor of London and is noted for increasing the city's green spaces, transport infrastructure and promoting cycling as a tool of city improvement.
Johnson's literary works include several biographies as well as more light-hearted novels. His book about Winston Churchill, titled 'The Churchill Factor' (2014), was well-received in the UK and was nicknamed "the wartime bible". The book delved into Churchill's life, character and values and how they were vital in helping to lead Britain through World War II. His other books range from biographies on British politicians such as Margaret Thatcher to a collection of his own thoughts and musings in 'Life in the FastLane' (2013).
In addition to his non-fiction books, Johnson has published a few works of fiction, one of which was his first novel 'Seventy Two Virgins' (2004). The book is about a crooked Tory MP who embarks on a journey to understand his life choices, taking him to far-away places. He takes readers on a humorous ‘frolic’ through Europe and North Africa, which has been lauded by critics. His other novels include 'Love Is Blind' (2010) and 'The Perils of the Pushy Parents' (2007).
Today, Boris Johnson remains an active politician and continues to serve as the Prime Minister of Britain. His well-received literary works, combined with his deep knowledge of British politics and the British political conversation, has solidified him as a well-known figure in Europe and beyond. His works are ideal for any reader looking to get a unique and entertaining insight into British leaders and Johnson himself.