Why the Germans Do It Better

Notes from a Grown-Up Country

By: John Kampfner

Narrated by: Adam Bromley

Nominated for the Orwell Prize.

Emerging from a collection of disparate city states 150 years ago, no other country has had as turbulent a history as Germany or enjoyed so much prosperity in such a short time frame. Today, as much of the world succumbs to authoritarianism and democracy is undermined from its heart, Germany stands as a bulwark for decency and stability.

Mixing personal journey and anecdote with compelling empirical evidence, this is a searching and entertaining exploration of the country many in the West still love to hate. Raising important questions for our post-Brexit landscape, Kampfner asks why Germany has become a model for others to emulate, while Britain still languishes in wartime nostalgia and fails to tackle contemporary challenges. Part memoir, part history, part travelogue, Why the Germans Do It Better is a rich and witty portrait of an eternally fascinating country.

©2020 John Kampfner (P)2020 W.F. Howes Ltd

Critic reviews

“Smart, provocative and entertaining, this is a timely and enthralling love letter to our much misunderstood near neighbour." (Kay Burley)