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The Life of an MP: Everything You Really Need to Know About Politics
‘This book is here to take you inside the daily realities of Westminster. I don’t mean that it’s going to bore you to death with a blow by blow account of what it’s like to sit on the Statutory Instrument Debate on Naval regulations 1968-2020 – but to demystify the places and practice of politics.’ From agonising decisions on foreign air strikes to making headlines about orgasms, from sitting in on history-making moments at the UN to eating McCain potato smiles at a black-tie banquet in China, the life of a politician is never dull. And it’s also never been more important. But politics is far bigger than Westminster, and in this book Jess Phillips makes the compelling case for why now, more than ever, we all need to be a part of it. With trademark humour and honesty, Jess Phillips lifts the lid on what a career in politics is really like and why it matters – to all of us. This is the inside story of what’s really going on.
285 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2021
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711 people want to read
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August 25, 2021I absolutely tore through this and really enjoyed it. Jess Phillips does an excellent job of demystifying Westminster and shares lots of insights from her experience as a MP in the process. She doesn’t hold back in putting across the issues which matter to her and which have defined her career, and makes a compelling case for the importance of politics for everyone.
July 26, 2021
Adore Jess Phillips and adore everything she stands for. Yet another brilliant book by her.
September 4, 2021
I liked the look into the everyday life of an MP this book offers — the politics nerd in me can’t get enough. I also think this is great on audio, and the colloquial language works better that way (the author reads the book herself), but overall not a mindblowing read, just a good easy read.
Nor is this actually everything you need to know about politics, a less misleading title for this book would be closer to “the things you should know about how parliament works and why Jess Phillips thinks it’s important to be involved in politics”.
I liked the stories about how the everyday working life is for an MP, how decisions are made and how public debates are a theatre after which you may be friendly again, but cared less about Phillips grinding her ax about those she doesn’t like (Corbyn more than anyone else) — this takes away from the rest of the book and seems quite unnecessary. Ignoring that, this was a fun and quick read that taught me a few new details about the UK parliament.
Nor is this actually everything you need to know about politics, a less misleading title for this book would be closer to “the things you should know about how parliament works and why Jess Phillips thinks it’s important to be involved in politics”.
I liked the stories about how the everyday working life is for an MP, how decisions are made and how public debates are a theatre after which you may be friendly again, but cared less about Phillips grinding her ax about those she doesn’t like (Corbyn more than anyone else) — this takes away from the rest of the book and seems quite unnecessary. Ignoring that, this was a fun and quick read that taught me a few new details about the UK parliament.
May 7, 2022
A well written insight into what goes on at Westminster behind closed doors and what the life of an MP involves. Jess Phillips is an engaging writer and says things as she sees them. She doesn't mince her words.
She speaks about many aspects of political life, her constituency, the many days away from home her job requires, the red tape and antiquated systems in place at Westminster, dealing with the press, trying to get things done when so much of the establishment is based on the old boys club. She is passionate about her job though and wants to get things done, and works hard to make a difference. She's worked hard for those who are the victims of domestic violence and seeks to bring change.
She's surprisingly fair-minded about those who she doesn't agree with and though she often uses some quite unparlimentary language she still has respect for those on the opposite side of the house, stating that the vast majority of MP's came into politics to make a difference even those she massively disagrees with. One person who she names as been in the small group who didn't come into politics to bring change but to make a name for himself is in her opinion Boris Johnson.
While the book is a fascinating insight and her passion that politics can make a difference is sounded our loud and clear the books impacts is lessened in one particular way. Having said she's fair-minded about those she doesn't agree with two names keep coming up as people she doesn't disguise her contempt for. One is the aforementioned Boris Johnson which is quite understandable the other person is less understandable and lessens all she had previously said about respect it's Jeremy Corbyn.
Jess Phillips doesn't like Jeremy Corbyn and she still seems hung up on him every though he's no longer leader of the Labour Party. She makes numerous references to him usually in a derogatory way which when you look at the things they care about doesn't make sense, they are more alike than I think she'd like to admit. She never explains her contempt but just keeps making sly digs at various points in the book. At one point when speaking about the fact that his name is often brought up as the MP who claims least expenses she points out that as he only lives 25 minutes from Westminster he doesn't need to claim for living accommodation when attending Parliament. Rather than using this to explain why some MP's may claim more than others which would be a valid point, it's almost as if the fact that he only lives a short distance from Parliament as an accusation and she seems quite angry about it.
This constant drip feeding of her contempt for him takes away from what would have been an excellent book and lessens the impact of the points she makes quite powerfully elsewhere.
The insights are helpful for anyone who wants to know what MP's actually do and most do work hard. It's told with humour and bluntness, it's just a shame that her hang ups about Corbyn detract from an otherwise very good book.
She speaks about many aspects of political life, her constituency, the many days away from home her job requires, the red tape and antiquated systems in place at Westminster, dealing with the press, trying to get things done when so much of the establishment is based on the old boys club. She is passionate about her job though and wants to get things done, and works hard to make a difference. She's worked hard for those who are the victims of domestic violence and seeks to bring change.
She's surprisingly fair-minded about those who she doesn't agree with and though she often uses some quite unparlimentary language she still has respect for those on the opposite side of the house, stating that the vast majority of MP's came into politics to make a difference even those she massively disagrees with. One person who she names as been in the small group who didn't come into politics to bring change but to make a name for himself is in her opinion Boris Johnson.
While the book is a fascinating insight and her passion that politics can make a difference is sounded our loud and clear the books impacts is lessened in one particular way. Having said she's fair-minded about those she doesn't agree with two names keep coming up as people she doesn't disguise her contempt for. One is the aforementioned Boris Johnson which is quite understandable the other person is less understandable and lessens all she had previously said about respect it's Jeremy Corbyn.
Jess Phillips doesn't like Jeremy Corbyn and she still seems hung up on him every though he's no longer leader of the Labour Party. She makes numerous references to him usually in a derogatory way which when you look at the things they care about doesn't make sense, they are more alike than I think she'd like to admit. She never explains her contempt but just keeps making sly digs at various points in the book. At one point when speaking about the fact that his name is often brought up as the MP who claims least expenses she points out that as he only lives 25 minutes from Westminster he doesn't need to claim for living accommodation when attending Parliament. Rather than using this to explain why some MP's may claim more than others which would be a valid point, it's almost as if the fact that he only lives a short distance from Parliament as an accusation and she seems quite angry about it.
This constant drip feeding of her contempt for him takes away from what would have been an excellent book and lessens the impact of the points she makes quite powerfully elsewhere.
The insights are helpful for anyone who wants to know what MP's actually do and most do work hard. It's told with humour and bluntness, it's just a shame that her hang ups about Corbyn detract from an otherwise very good book.
August 11, 2021
3.5, it was a bit cringy at times but overall a really informative and interesting read.
May 27, 2022
I like Jess Phillips. She's unusual for a politican because she's straight-talking and down to earth, and not from a privileged background. This book is about Phillips' life as an MP since 2015 but also delves frequently into her own life and background. I think the title "Everything you need to know..." is a bit misleading, even though the book does cover a range of topics across its 12 chapters. Phillips is shadow minister for domestic violence and safeguarding, and accordingly most of her examples and anecdotes revolve around issues emanating from this post. The writing style tries to be informal and irreverent, but the tone just grated on me. I think there's also (a possibly unintentional) 'holier-than-thou' theme throughout the book as Phillips contrasts herself with various (Conservative party) politicians and their shenanigans. For me, the highlight was the chapter on constituency work and the various kind of activities this entails.
January 15, 2022
Reflections and lessons learned:
“Changing the world for the better looks different to everyone, but it is what most politicians do want to achieve - some are just really shit at it…”
Who better to try and illustrate the ins and outs of one of the most random but seemingly currently most judged roles in the country. Someone who isn’t a traditional MP from the mould but exactly what we need - someone with a working class life experience, who lives from a perspective of there being multiple sides of the fence, and a positive but balanced approach to trying to tackle the necessary change - and she always sounds on the verge of telling people to naff off which is a phrase that more politicians should use to show the common touch
“Changing the world for the better looks different to everyone, but it is what most politicians do want to achieve - some are just really shit at it…”
Who better to try and illustrate the ins and outs of one of the most random but seemingly currently most judged roles in the country. Someone who isn’t a traditional MP from the mould but exactly what we need - someone with a working class life experience, who lives from a perspective of there being multiple sides of the fence, and a positive but balanced approach to trying to tackle the necessary change - and she always sounds on the verge of telling people to naff off which is a phrase that more politicians should use to show the common touch
March 19, 2022
Love Jess for her down to earth no nonsense approach to life and politics. This was an easy and engaging listen, she narrates the book herself and does a good job of it.
Clearly passionate about political life and the difference that it makes in everyday life, the hits I enjoyed most were the stories of door knocking, running to get elected as an MP and the dealings with people from her constituency.
Disparaging about Boris and Jeremy in pretty equal measure, yet pragmatic about who she needs to work with in order to get things done. She's funny and compassionate and while she bangs on a bit, what's not to love? Oh that we had more like her representing us.
Clearly passionate about political life and the difference that it makes in everyday life, the hits I enjoyed most were the stories of door knocking, running to get elected as an MP and the dealings with people from her constituency.
Disparaging about Boris and Jeremy in pretty equal measure, yet pragmatic about who she needs to work with in order to get things done. She's funny and compassionate and while she bangs on a bit, what's not to love? Oh that we had more like her representing us.
September 17, 2021
Part memoir, part lesson on the workings of parliament and the job of an MP, Phillips’ writing is down-to-earth, outspoken and passionate.
A copy of the first few chapters should be distributed to every child in a British state school, so that they can be informed about democracy and inspired to run for public office
A copy of the first few chapters should be distributed to every child in a British state school, so that they can be informed about democracy and inspired to run for public office
September 28, 2021
Sharp, down to earth, tough feminist, cracking sense of humour, takes no shit from Tories. What's not to like? Must have mentioned I liked her to my mum, as this was my birthday book this year. Its humbling listening to the workload an MP who does the job properly has to handle.
November 8, 2021
The insights into politics are limited. More self-promotional than about what people need to know about politics
August 22, 2021
Informative and chatty in equal measure. Not my usual reading matter but all the better for it. Engaging and thought provoking without too much Labouring of the point.
July 22, 2022
Ordinarily I wouldn’t choose to read a book about politics. I’ve followed Jess Phillips on social media for a while and always impressed by her values, passion and natural and inspiring public speaking, so as a 99p deal on Kindle, I thought it was worth a read.
I found it an interesting and insightful book. Jess’ passion and enthusiasm comes across, as well as her personal sacrifices and dedication to the causes she supports. As a Scot, Westminster can often feel irrelevant and while I don’t agree with all of her politics, but can relate to a lot of what she stands for, Jess is someone I admire - particularly enjoying her witty swipes at Boris Johnson (described as someone who can’t be bothered to brush his hair) and scathing remarks about the Tories.
Recommend to anyone wanting to be inspired and learn a bit about the political system in a really digestible and relatable way.
I found it an interesting and insightful book. Jess’ passion and enthusiasm comes across, as well as her personal sacrifices and dedication to the causes she supports. As a Scot, Westminster can often feel irrelevant and while I don’t agree with all of her politics, but can relate to a lot of what she stands for, Jess is someone I admire - particularly enjoying her witty swipes at Boris Johnson (described as someone who can’t be bothered to brush his hair) and scathing remarks about the Tories.
Recommend to anyone wanting to be inspired and learn a bit about the political system in a really digestible and relatable way.
January 2, 2023
Written in an easy chatter, this book offers an insight into the day to day challenges of an MP’s job. The hours are long, the mileage excessive, the door knocking archaic and the personal costs of such commitment to her role as Jess Philips displays are clearly high. Obviously not all MPs are as dedicated as she is, yet they seem to sail by without any additional criticism.
It’s a job for individuals with certain character traits, no doubt. I’m not sure Jess Philips was really prepared for the role prior to her election, but, a bit like motherhood, is anyone ever ready?
This memoir is honest, humorous and humbling, and regardless of political persuasion, if you have any interest in the mechanisms of how Westminster works, this is a good read.
It’s a job for individuals with certain character traits, no doubt. I’m not sure Jess Philips was really prepared for the role prior to her election, but, a bit like motherhood, is anyone ever ready?
This memoir is honest, humorous and humbling, and regardless of political persuasion, if you have any interest in the mechanisms of how Westminster works, this is a good read.
October 7, 2021
this book was very good for getting a basic idea of politics and what really matters within politics. Jess Phillips is a very good story teller and it felt like a conversation with a friend. but i am a huge fiction reader so this book took me a while to finish
November 9, 2021
An interesting behind the scenes at Westminster but with possibly a different take from other Westminster memoirs you may have read. I really enjoyed this book although I suspected I would as I am a paid up member of the Jess Phillips fan club. Written with honesty and not afraid to boff the establishment on the nose. I respect Jess even more having listened to her reading of this.
January 11, 2023
The books does an excellent job of explaining the day to day life of a politician and the problems in the current system.
I particularly enjoyed listening to it as it was read by the author and that helped highlight her passion.
I particularly enjoyed listening to it as it was read by the author and that helped highlight her passion.
December 29, 2021
Stance is hating the Tories so at times a bit tiring. But a great summary of political life.
December 1, 2022
Lesson: politics is human, and slow. Okay book, shows the daily life of an MP.
December 5, 2022
My first audiobook! I loved it!
December 30, 2023
Read alongside the audiobook!!
Loved it
Jess Phillips is one of my new fave MPs after reading this book
#politicsmatters
Loved it
Jess Phillips is one of my new fave MPs after reading this book
#politicsmatters
July 19, 2022
I was hesitant to purchase this, even at the daily deal price of 99p, as giving money to Jess Phillips is not something I would ordinarily do, given we are at opposite ends of the political spectrum.
However, that being said, it was a book which I started and finished relatively quickly as I was keen to see what it was like to be an MP.
At times, Jess did go on a political rant. However, her target was usually Boris. Even as a Conservative Party member, I cannot entirely blame her for that(!) Most of the book contains Jess's story of how she went through the ranks to become a member of parliament.
I've thought it for some time, but after reading this, if she were to become Labour leader, she would stand an excellent chance of winning.
For political reasons, I wish I didn't give it four stars, but it's worthy of it!I was hesitant to purchase this, even at the daily deal price of 99p, as giving money to Jess Phillips is not something I would ordinarily do, given we are at opposite ends of the political spectrum.
However, that being said, it was a book which I started and finished relatively quickly as I was keen to see what it was like to be an MP.
At times, Jess did go on a political rant. However, her target was usually Boris. Even as a Conservative Party member, I cannot entirely blame her for that(!) Most of the book contains Jess's story of how she went through the ranks to become a member of parliament.
I've thought it for some time, but after reading this, if she were to become Labour leader, she would stand an excellent chance of winning.
For political reasons, I wish I didn't give it four stars, but it's worthy of it!
However, that being said, it was a book which I started and finished relatively quickly as I was keen to see what it was like to be an MP.
At times, Jess did go on a political rant. However, her target was usually Boris. Even as a Conservative Party member, I cannot entirely blame her for that(!) Most of the book contains Jess's story of how she went through the ranks to become a member of parliament.
I've thought it for some time, but after reading this, if she were to become Labour leader, she would stand an excellent chance of winning.
For political reasons, I wish I didn't give it four stars, but it's worthy of it!I was hesitant to purchase this, even at the daily deal price of 99p, as giving money to Jess Phillips is not something I would ordinarily do, given we are at opposite ends of the political spectrum.
However, that being said, it was a book which I started and finished relatively quickly as I was keen to see what it was like to be an MP.
At times, Jess did go on a political rant. However, her target was usually Boris. Even as a Conservative Party member, I cannot entirely blame her for that(!) Most of the book contains Jess's story of how she went through the ranks to become a member of parliament.
I've thought it for some time, but after reading this, if she were to become Labour leader, she would stand an excellent chance of winning.
For political reasons, I wish I didn't give it four stars, but it's worthy of it!
April 4, 2023
To quote Jess "I bloody loved it!" This is the book that everyone at state school needs to listen to. She states so clearly why everyone needs to take an interest in politics. I only wish that more young people would understand how politics affects their lives, every day. Thank you Jess for being you and saying what needs to be said.
December 2, 2022
Really enjoyed this book and Jess made politics relatable. I can't wait for my daughter to read this book, though I might have to wait until she's a bit older as she's only 12!
August 19, 2021
A fantastic read which is informative and down to earth. Jess' voice cuts through the political noise and talks the reader through complex, arcane processes with ease to make them relatable and relevant. She is straightforward and well reasoned - a pleasure to read.
December 20, 2023
As a fiction enthusiast through and through, sometimes I enjoy reading a non-fiction book as a palate cleanser. This was a fascinating read; I've always wondered what an MP actually does, and this book takes you through how you go about getting elected, what MPs do all day, party politics, and how politics is reported.
Enjoyable read in a very direct and at time humorous read! This is defo a great introductory book into the inner workings of politics. I would recommend
Enjoyable read in a very direct and at time humorous read! This is defo a great introductory book into the inner workings of politics. I would recommend
June 27, 2024
A good insight into things I didn’t know about. Made me more curious about how the system actually works and at the same time realised I have a lot more reading to do.
October 22, 2021
Everything You Really Need To Know About Politics - My Life as an MP by Jess Phillips. I loved this book. If you weren’t aware, Jess Phillips is the Labour MP for Birmingham Yardley. This book takes you through how you go about getting elected, what MP’s do all day, party politics and how politics is reported. From agonising decisions on foreign air strikes to making headlines about orgasms, the life of a politician is never dull. Jess Phillips makes a compelling case as to why politics matters more than ever. As Jess writes in her book and I as I very much agree “Politics matters! Politics is not a game, it is not a toy for certain people to play with while others disengage. Politics is the reason why women have the vote, it is the reason that when you break your leg there is a place for you to go and get it fixed. Politics is the reason that a man can no longer legitimately rape his wife in marriage. Politics is the universal education that exists in the great majority of the world. Politics is vaccination programmes that rid the world of smallpox, are close to ridding it of polio and are today helping to bring it back from the worst health crisis in many generations. Politics matters.” Definitely recommend this!
December 22, 2024
Jess Phillips is such a great accessible writer, I learned a lot about the British parliament and election system from this book! I only docked one star because I felt like at times this was a little too autobiographical, talking a lot about her life and her niche experiences- it’s true that at many times it added really important context and humour! But at other times, especially towards the end, it got quite irritating and I wish she’d just get back to the main point. Some people may care about this more or less than I did.
July 7, 2024
Poorly written and self indulgent. However, does a brilliant job of explaining the ins and outs of being an MP. Would probably benefit from less use of the first person.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews