Great-Uncle Harry

Michael Palin's Great-Uncle Harry is a riveting and deeply personal exploration into the life of an ordinary man who encountered the extraordinary circumstances of the First World War. The book begins with Palin's discovery of his grandfather’s brother, Harry, whose existence was a mere footnote in the family history. Driven by curiosity and a desire to honour his relative, Palin embarks on a gripping quest to uncover the details of Harry's life and the ultimate sacrifice he made on the battlefields of northern France.

With painstaking attention to detail, Palin delves into rich family gossip and scours through correspondence, official records, diaries, and letters that survived the tumult of time. He walks us through Harry’s life, from his modest beginnings to his role on the front lines. The narrative is enriched with evocative descriptions of the Great War's landscapes and the harrowing experiences faced by soldiers, drawing readers into the gritty realities of a century past. Engrossing and meticulous, Palin's research allows Harry's story to emerge from the shadows, piecing together the fragments of a life lived with courage and resilience.

Great-Uncle Harry is more than just a biography; it is a poignant blend of history, travelogue, and memoir. Palin’s engaging storytelling style transforms this historical investigation into an enthralling narrative that resonates on both personal and universal levels. Through his words, Harry's life is not only documented but also celebrated, offering readers a remarkable insight into the human spirit amidst the backdrop of one of history’s most catastrophic conflicts.

Bill Bryson praises the book, stating, "I cannot remember the last time I read a book so immediately absorbing and affecting. Michael Palin has never been better - which is, of course, saying a great deal."

The Guardian hails it as "an important historical record and a well-paced story in its own right, Great-Uncle Harry is also much more than that- a tremendous act of love."

This compelling account is a testament to the strength of familial bonds and the enduring impact of war on subsequent generations. Great-Uncle Harry stands as a heartfelt tribute to an unsung hero, brought to life through the lens of one of Britain's most beloved entertainers and storytellers, Michael Palin.