Political Autobiographies

[emilymamu]

I have started to become interested in politics and would like to know anyone's opinion on the best/most interesting/entertaining political autobiography/biography. I would prefer the book to lean more towards drama and debauchery than tedious details on the say Maastricht treaty. Thanks

[gary baldy]

Got to be the Alan Clark Diaries.

[BigMac]

From the UK, try these:

The Alan Clark Diaries;
Chips Channon's Diaries;
Anthony Crosland's Diaries:
The complete "Yes Minister" and "Yes Prime Minister" scripts;
House of Cards by Michael Dobbs.

Il Principe (the Prince) by Niccolo Macchiavelli shouod also be included - see how much/little has changed.

[kazza12345]

beat me to it but definately alan clark diaries

[sddsddean]

Betty Boothroyd's(ex Speaker) Autobiog is good, as is 'Give me ten seconds' by John Sergeant(ex political commentator).

[emilymamu]

Thanks for your suggestions - I am not surprised that Alan Clark and debauchery were mentioned in the same sentence. Have any of you read a more recent, politically resonant autobiography?

[Paul22118]

I have taken a long time to think of the best answer for you emily and kept coming back to the same one all the time. As Gary said it just has to be the Alan Clark diaries (3).

It is a brilliant insight to parliament, to the seat of power and the double dealing and backstabbing that goes on.

Hugely readable because of AC's life style and had me laughing out loud many times - also in tears at the end.

Must read.