How to be an MP [Kindle Edition]

The book, divided into dozens of subsections, such as 'How to doughnut' and 'How to write an abusive standard letter', is an accessible insight into the realities of being an M.P. Chronicling the absurdity, asininity and pressures of which said entails. It is in no way abstruse and can be read by those interested in a career in politics, those interested in parliament per se and the role of members, or those particularly fond of Flynn.

Well written, with patches of excellent prose, it reads like an alacritous guide, with anecdotes pitched in. This is not a personal manifesto, throwing ideas and abstractions at the reader, but one does get a good sense of Flynn's general views on a number of issues. Perhaps the book would possibly have been improved with detailed anecdotes of, say, an average week in the life of a backbench M.P. There are also slight elements of repetition.

As a 'post-expenses' tome, it alludes to the episode, to the devastation it caused and problems with the current system. Flynn's wider defence of politicians is ironic considering the Daily Mail has printed extracts (pre-publication), picking out the six or seven most damning items of political incompetence: including the story of an inebriated Tory M.P. who slept in a hotel wardrobe. The book is also relatively up-to-date with references to 2011 events such as the August Riots and the NoTW phone-hacking episode.

In short, this is a solid book and worth a read.

It's good read, and amusing in places. Some interesting facts about life and the workings in the house. Would recommend it to anyone looking for a book with a difference.

i really enjoyed the way paul flynn took me through the myriad of rules and regs at westminster and how if an mp i should behave. very witty