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Brit Happens
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Review
“I don’t even like British people, but I love James Mullinger and Brit Happens.” -- Mary Walsh
“In Brit Happens, Mullinger masterfully straddles the line between objective and inclusive, culturally and geographically. He gently pokes us with a stick while being one of us. I can’t wait for the Brit to hit the fans!” -- Jonathan Torrens
“James Mullinger is my favourite comedian friend who has relocated from England to New Brunswick. And I’m not just saying that because he is the only one. Brit Happens is a great glimpse inside the mind of a British man who becomes more Canadian seemingly by the minute and who might just appreciate the magic of the Canadian Maritimes even more than born and bred Atlantic Canadians. Which I realize might be fighting words to Atlantic Canadians. So fight him if you want to, I guess. But you’ll be fighting one of your own.” -- Steve Patterson
“We should all be curious about the origins, motivations, and unrelenting optimism of James Mullinger. While his contagious good mood still remains a bit of a mystery, all else is laid out here in fine, hilarious form. Brit Happens is a wonderful read.” -- Ali Hassan
“I would love to hate James Mullinger. He’s hilarious, insightful, giving — and seems to have an absolutely endless amount of energy for creative output. And he makes it all look so darn easy! But the truth of it is, I can’t. Am I surprised James wrote a book? Of course not. Am I surprised it’s filled with hilarious and touching stories from his unique and intelligent perspective? Not at all. Does it piss me off that he makes it all look so easy? You bet it does!” -- David Myles
“The East Coast won the comedy jackpot when James Mullinger decided to make the Maritimes his home. On top of being a brilliant storyteller, James makes me laugh until my stomach hurts.” -- Alyse Hand
Product Description
One Sunday afternoon in a tiny postage-stamp garden, James Mullinger made the life-altering decision to give it all up: the London pubs, bustling city streets, and a flourishing comedy career. But where in the world would he and his partner raise a family? The English countryside? Toronto? New York?
Hmmm. How about St. John … sorry, Saint John, New Brunswick?
Brit Happens chronicles Mullinger’s lifetime of adventures, from his beginnings as a shy and nervous kid collecting comedy records at the neighborhood video store, to rising through the ranks of GQ magazine and meeting his personal idols Jerry Seinfeld and Paul McCartney, to imagining the possibility of another life in Canada. From the highs and lows of London to beginning anew in New Brunswick, Brit Happens tells gut-busting stories of success and failure and the unpredictable grind of stand-up comedy. It also offers a laugh-out-loud look at life in Atlantic Canada from the region’s funniest outsider-turned-local.
About the Author
James Mullinger is an award-winning British comedian and the co-founder of [Edit] Magazine. He spent fifteen years at GQ before moving to Canada. He has appeared on CBC’s The Debaters, at theatres throughout Canada, and in stand-up specials and movies. And yes, he lives in Saint John — or at least nearby.
Review
“I don’t even like British people, but I love James Mullinger and Brit Happens.” -- Mary Walsh
“In Brit Happens, Mullinger masterfully straddles the line between objective and inclusive, culturally and geographically. He gently pokes us with a stick while being one of us. I can’t wait for the Brit to hit the fans!” -- Jonathan Torrens
“James Mullinger is my favourite comedian friend who has relocated from England to New Brunswick. And I’m not just saying that because he is the only one. Brit Happens is a great glimpse inside the mind of a British man who becomes more Canadian seemingly by the minute and who might just appreciate the magic of the Canadian Maritimes even more than born and bred Atlantic Canadians. Which I realize might be fighting words to Atlantic Canadians. So fight him if you want to, I guess. But you’ll be fighting one of your own.” -- Steve Patterson
“We should all be curious about the origins, motivations, and unrelenting optimism of James Mullinger. While his contagious good mood still remains a bit of a mystery, all else is laid out here in fine, hilarious form. Brit Happens is a wonderful read.” -- Ali Hassan
“I would love to hate James Mullinger. He’s hilarious, insightful, giving — and seems to have an absolutely endless amount of energy for creative output. And he makes it all look so darn easy! But the truth of it is, I can’t. Am I surprised James wrote a book? Of course not. Am I surprised it’s filled with hilarious and touching stories from his unique and intelligent perspective? Not at all. Does it piss me off that he makes it all look so easy? You bet it does!” -- David Myles
“The East Coast won the comedy jackpot when James Mullinger decided to make the Maritimes his home. On top of being a brilliant storyteller, James makes me laugh until my stomach hurts.” -- Alyse Hand
Product Description
One Sunday afternoon in a tiny postage-stamp garden, James Mullinger made the life-altering decision to give it all up: the London pubs, bustling city streets, and a flourishing comedy career. But where in the world would he and his partner raise a family? The English countryside? Toronto? New York?
Hmmm. How about St. John … sorry, Saint John, New Brunswick?
Brit Happens chronicles Mullinger’s lifetime of adventures, from his beginnings as a shy and nervous kid collecting comedy records at the neighborhood video store, to rising through the ranks of GQ magazine and meeting his personal idols Jerry Seinfeld and Paul McCartney, to imagining the possibility of another life in Canada. From the highs and lows of London to beginning anew in New Brunswick, Brit Happens tells gut-busting stories of success and failure and the unpredictable grind of stand-up comedy. It also offers a laugh-out-loud look at life in Atlantic Canada from the region’s funniest outsider-turned-local.
About the Author
James Mullinger is an award-winning British comedian and the co-founder of [Edit] Magazine. He spent fifteen years at GQ before moving to Canada. He has appeared on CBC’s The Debaters, at theatres throughout Canada, and in stand-up specials and movies. And yes, he lives in Saint John — or at least nearby.
247 pages, Paperback
Published May 9, 2022
7 people are currently reading
63 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
May 15, 2022
Being unfamiliar with Mullinger's work, I didn't particularly want to read "Brit Happens", but my boss asked me to interview James at the book launch. I'm quite grateful I was given that extra professional push, because I ended up loving "Brit Happens"! It's a witty, well-written memoir that I finished in just under a day!
I couldn't help but relate to Mullinger's boyhood as a chubby, socially awkward loner, who experienced a lot of bullying. Mullinger writes extensively about the role of VHS tapes, comic books, and records in helping him escape the pain and loneliness of his early life. Indeed, in several different places in this book, Mullinger mentions certain "patronus charms" (I was surprised by this reference) that he uses to help him stave off depression and despair. I was struck by how many of these "charms" were media-related.
For instance, there's a lovely story about how whenever his dad picked him up after a rough day of bullying at school, he wouldn't say anything, he would just put on some late-period Paul McCartney music and they would drive quietly home. And so Mullinger always associated the music of McCartney with his father, and feelings of safety (which only enhances the story of his meeting with Paul McCartney decades later).
James also has a handful of great stories about his 15 years of writing for GQ, but my absolute favourite was his interview with Tom Hiddelston, before the Loki-actor hit it big:
Mullinger was getting harassed by Hiddelston's people for a sit-down interview, but Mullinger kept brushing them off, making excuses, until eventually an impatient Tom Hiddelston showed up at the office, so James was sort of forced to begrudgingly interview him. Apparently Hiddelston talked a very long time (the column didn't even require an interview, since it was only about 200 words), and was given to spouting things like: acting is a bit like "3-Dimensional Archaeology/Anthropology", because actors discover and "excavate human emotion", then trap these feelings in the glass case that is a movie. Sigh...
Anyway, if you're at all interested in stand-up (or even just humorous memoirs) I would definitely recommend "Brit Happens".
I couldn't help but relate to Mullinger's boyhood as a chubby, socially awkward loner, who experienced a lot of bullying. Mullinger writes extensively about the role of VHS tapes, comic books, and records in helping him escape the pain and loneliness of his early life. Indeed, in several different places in this book, Mullinger mentions certain "patronus charms" (I was surprised by this reference) that he uses to help him stave off depression and despair. I was struck by how many of these "charms" were media-related.
For instance, there's a lovely story about how whenever his dad picked him up after a rough day of bullying at school, he wouldn't say anything, he would just put on some late-period Paul McCartney music and they would drive quietly home. And so Mullinger always associated the music of McCartney with his father, and feelings of safety (which only enhances the story of his meeting with Paul McCartney decades later).
James also has a handful of great stories about his 15 years of writing for GQ, but my absolute favourite was his interview with Tom Hiddelston, before the Loki-actor hit it big:
Mullinger was getting harassed by Hiddelston's people for a sit-down interview, but Mullinger kept brushing them off, making excuses, until eventually an impatient Tom Hiddelston showed up at the office, so James was sort of forced to begrudgingly interview him. Apparently Hiddelston talked a very long time (the column didn't even require an interview, since it was only about 200 words), and was given to spouting things like: acting is a bit like "3-Dimensional Archaeology/Anthropology", because actors discover and "excavate human emotion", then trap these feelings in the glass case that is a movie. Sigh...
Anyway, if you're at all interested in stand-up (or even just humorous memoirs) I would definitely recommend "Brit Happens".
May 27, 2023
A riveting read from start to finish that was hard to put down! Having seen some of James’ show I could almost hear him reading the book to me. A great look at his life/career with a lot of comedy throughout.
July 13, 2022
This book made me laugh, cry and incredibly proud to be from Saint John.
June 15, 2022
Very interesting and funny read about the world of comedy and the daily grind involved in a successful career. Also, a great read about taking chances and putting yourself out there. Great advertisement for New Brunswick and the Maritimes in general as a great place to live. Easy read and easy to recommend. #indigoemployee
June 6, 2022
There are definitely a few gems in there, and I am glad I read it.
May 12, 2022
Exceptionally well written biography from a guy who hasn’t even been able to convince anyone he’s over 40.
No other book can you find genitals flying in the face of Sir Paul McCartney, getting lost on your own street because nobody can agree on where you live, or flying to the wrong province on Christmas Eve for a first dinner with your new in-laws.
It’s an incredible story of hard work, shameless self promotion, and being unaccountably resilient when everyone except your staunchest supporters tell you that what you want to do can’t be done. Gives hope to all the half-wits like me that standing up and saying ‘the hell with all you bloody lot’ can still turn out great in the end.
Loved this book. James has never written a full book before but you wouldn’t know it. Interspersed with segments of his stand ups keeps you smiling and laughing in the corner causing strange looks to be shot your way from the wife but disallows the tale from ever being boring.
Intelligently written.. totally recommend it.
No other book can you find genitals flying in the face of Sir Paul McCartney, getting lost on your own street because nobody can agree on where you live, or flying to the wrong province on Christmas Eve for a first dinner with your new in-laws.
It’s an incredible story of hard work, shameless self promotion, and being unaccountably resilient when everyone except your staunchest supporters tell you that what you want to do can’t be done. Gives hope to all the half-wits like me that standing up and saying ‘the hell with all you bloody lot’ can still turn out great in the end.
Loved this book. James has never written a full book before but you wouldn’t know it. Interspersed with segments of his stand ups keeps you smiling and laughing in the corner causing strange looks to be shot your way from the wife but disallows the tale from ever being boring.
Intelligently written.. totally recommend it.
Read
June 14, 2022I chatted with James about Brit Happens here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3VM9x...
July 25, 2022
A fun summer read!
July 10, 2023
Will: This was a great book a funny book and also a inspiring book. The part I found inspiring about this book was when he met his idol Jerry Seinfeld. I found it really cool how he met his idol and even got to do a act with him! Another cool part about this book was it was based in Canada which was AMAZING!!!! I happened to meet James Mullinger before aswell so that was a really cool connection I made! I would rate this book a 10 out of 10 or 5 ⭐️'s! I definitely recommend the book and I hope you enjoy it! I also reviewed this book on my YouTube channel WildWilliesBookReviews and I have a interview with James Mullinger in the works!!!
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Savannah: This book is not something I would necessarily pick up but I’m so glad I did! It was such a quick and interesting read that I could not put down.
I found this book hilarious and inspirational with intriguing and captivating stories. I loved all the mentions of different places in Canada because I could picture myself there and recall different memories I have from those places.
Overall this was a great read that I think everyone should pick up!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
______
Savannah: This book is not something I would necessarily pick up but I’m so glad I did! It was such a quick and interesting read that I could not put down.
I found this book hilarious and inspirational with intriguing and captivating stories. I loved all the mentions of different places in Canada because I could picture myself there and recall different memories I have from those places.
Overall this was a great read that I think everyone should pick up!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
May 30, 2022
If you like to feel, this is the book that will help you do that. Even by the second page I was chuckling which is rare for me when it comes to a book. In real life, when James Mullinger tells a story, my laugh is loud and annoying... I needed to quiet it while reading this book, but it wasn't easy. And then it was.
This book isn't all about hilarity or jokes. This is about a young man leaving his family behind to answer the question "Why move here?" and battle the concept of "oh no, we don't do comedy here." I'd like to meet these people now and ask what they think of this now as James does comedy, does it well and is proving why he moved here, despite the obstacles, language differences and yes, hate mail.
James is an immigrant, of course, and his accent is truly British but it's clear from this book, his work ethic and his celebrating Canada - even the rural areas- that his heart is Canadian and now his passport proves it.
This book isn't all about hilarity or jokes. This is about a young man leaving his family behind to answer the question "Why move here?" and battle the concept of "oh no, we don't do comedy here." I'd like to meet these people now and ask what they think of this now as James does comedy, does it well and is proving why he moved here, despite the obstacles, language differences and yes, hate mail.
James is an immigrant, of course, and his accent is truly British but it's clear from this book, his work ethic and his celebrating Canada - even the rural areas- that his heart is Canadian and now his passport proves it.
September 11, 2023
Before reading this book, I had known a little bit about James Mullinger. His face seemed to be plastered all over Saint John. I remember seeing posters of him on bulletin boards at my university campus. And of course, nearly everyone in the area knows him for his YouTube video about how Maritimers give directions.
Otherwise, I did not know much about him.
Brit Happens is Mullinger's autobiography, the story of how he became a comedian and why he decided to relocate his family to Saint John after working in London for years. He tells stories about his personal life, his adjustment to the ways of Atlantic Canadians, his struggles as a comedian, and there is a little bit of interesting information about the celebrities he met. I was most interested in his story about Tom Hiddleston. Turns out, Tom Hiddleston takes himself very (maybe a bit too) seriously. There were many parts in his autobiography that got a laugh out of me.
What I appreciated the most about this book is how James Mullinger views Saint John. For years, Saint John has gotten a bit of a bad rap. While it has always attracted its fair share of tourists, the local public perception of Saint John was rather unfavourable. Through his comedy, Mullinger has repeatedly praised Saint John and helped others to see that it has a lot to offer. Yes, it can be very foggy in the summer, but it still has a lot to offer. Sometimes it takes someone like Mullinger (who grew up in England) to see its potential and inspire others to see it as well. Despite not being an "official" Saint Johner myself (as I grew up outside the city), I am very appreciative of everything James Mullinger has done to promote the city and the province of New Brunswick as a whole.
I would highly recommend Brit Happens to comedy fans.
Otherwise, I did not know much about him.
Brit Happens is Mullinger's autobiography, the story of how he became a comedian and why he decided to relocate his family to Saint John after working in London for years. He tells stories about his personal life, his adjustment to the ways of Atlantic Canadians, his struggles as a comedian, and there is a little bit of interesting information about the celebrities he met. I was most interested in his story about Tom Hiddleston. Turns out, Tom Hiddleston takes himself very (maybe a bit too) seriously. There were many parts in his autobiography that got a laugh out of me.
What I appreciated the most about this book is how James Mullinger views Saint John. For years, Saint John has gotten a bit of a bad rap. While it has always attracted its fair share of tourists, the local public perception of Saint John was rather unfavourable. Through his comedy, Mullinger has repeatedly praised Saint John and helped others to see that it has a lot to offer. Yes, it can be very foggy in the summer, but it still has a lot to offer. Sometimes it takes someone like Mullinger (who grew up in England) to see its potential and inspire others to see it as well. Despite not being an "official" Saint Johner myself (as I grew up outside the city), I am very appreciative of everything James Mullinger has done to promote the city and the province of New Brunswick as a whole.
I would highly recommend Brit Happens to comedy fans.
May 10, 2022
You know those books that you remember because you consumed them all in one sitting? You finished the early chapters telling yourself "okay, just one more" but as you kept reading it became clear it was going to be finished quite quickly because you couldn't put it down. You then finish it, sad that it ended, exceedingly glad that you read it, and thinking about it for days. Brit Happens is one of those books.
James Mullinger has lovingly crafted a beautiful, funny, and honest memoir about his journey from living as a professional comedian in the UK to his new life in Atlantic Canada. Mullinger's tone is reminiscent of the wit and philosophy of Douglas Adams, the ease in storytelling and self-deprecating humour of David Sedaris, mixed with a spice blend all his own (which will be instantly recognizable if you've ever had the privilege of seeing him perform.)
I'm not ashamed to say that I laughed out loud reading it - and cried quite a bit too. That's what happens when a book is filled with truth and the bravery to tell one's story.
This book is great. If you love stand-up comedy, thoughtful memoirs, funny British people, or just page-turners in general, you'll love Brit Happens.
James Mullinger has lovingly crafted a beautiful, funny, and honest memoir about his journey from living as a professional comedian in the UK to his new life in Atlantic Canada. Mullinger's tone is reminiscent of the wit and philosophy of Douglas Adams, the ease in storytelling and self-deprecating humour of David Sedaris, mixed with a spice blend all his own (which will be instantly recognizable if you've ever had the privilege of seeing him perform.)
I'm not ashamed to say that I laughed out loud reading it - and cried quite a bit too. That's what happens when a book is filled with truth and the bravery to tell one's story.
This book is great. If you love stand-up comedy, thoughtful memoirs, funny British people, or just page-turners in general, you'll love Brit Happens.
October 22, 2022
James Mullinger has written a big-hearted, hilarious, and often poignant memoir. We follow him from his early struggles as a comedian in England to driving treacherous winter roads to play to only a handful of people in his newly adopted province of New Brunswick. Mullinger’s humour, grit and determination are nicely balanced with a healthy dose of self-deprecation. His interactions with A-listers like Jerry Seinfeld and Paul McCartney are surprising and sweet and he gives a robust shout-out to all the road warrior comedians such as himself. At the heart of the story is Mullinger’s love for Atlantic Canada and affection for its people. To build a successful comedy career and burgeoning media empire is no mean feat, and while many memoirists might humble brag about their accomplishments, Mullinger genuinely recognizes how lucky he is, and that his success wouldn’t have happened without the support of family and community. A great story is all in the telling, and stories, both dark and humorous, are Mullinger’s stock and trade. Brit Happens is full of them, and a wonderful read that will leave you wanting more.
May 17, 2022
Wow! This book surprised me in a good way. I knew I would enjoy reading the book as I find James Mullinger to be a very entertaining performer. His humor is relatable and does not rely on the use of profanity and/or marginalization of any groups. What surprised me is the emotional roller coaster I was on while reading through Mullinger's early years. His feeling of not fitting in and being bullied is one that a lot of us went through. Along with the lows, there are many highs in the book and plenty of stories to tickle your funny bone. Mullinger gives us a glimpse behind the pages of GQ and the comedy circuit. If you enjoy a memoir that is filled with humor and passion then this one is for you. As a bonus, there is a sprinkling of stories of well-known people such as Sir Paul McCarthy and Tom Hiddleston. BONUS: Mullinger paints a beautiful picture of life in New Brunswick, Canada.
October 10, 2024
I could not put this memoir down. James takes us on a journey of wacky and wonderful twists and turns, spanning childhood moments to career changes, hysterical celebrity encounters and the highs and lows of the entertainment business. This is an honest, vulnerable and inspiring book about the sacrifices and rewards James, and his family, experienced from being 100% committed to following his heart, and honouring a passion for bringing joy to others. A perfect combination of Brit wit & Atlantic authenticity that reminds New Brunswickers how fortunate how we are to call this province home. Highly recommend.
January 13, 2023
As a Canadian who moved to England, I loved reading a Londoner’s take on moving to Canada (specifically Atlantic Canada).
The real reason I read this book was because of chapter 24 that is dedicated to my grandmother who recently passed away. The author was a close friend of hers and I wanted to know more about this person she adored.
What a well written, wholesome memoir about following your dreams.
Thank you, James. xx
The real reason I read this book was because of chapter 24 that is dedicated to my grandmother who recently passed away. The author was a close friend of hers and I wanted to know more about this person she adored.
What a well written, wholesome memoir about following your dreams.
Thank you, James. xx
October 2, 2023
James does an amazing job of keeping the book easy to understand while time jumping back and forth between his time living in Britain and Canada, particularly in the first half of the book. Those familiar with his stand-up will learn more about the stories behind his noteworthy bits, but the book is far more than just stage-show in print. The pages are filled with introspection, with just enough of James' trademark observations of Atlantic Canadian culture to feel familiar.
June 27, 2022
I'm so happy that Brit Happens happened! James Mullinger on the page is just as witty, warm and wonderfully entertaining as he is on the stage. Two thumbs wayyyy up! Thank you for shining a spotlight on Atlantic Canada—and yes, that includes Newfoundland AND Labrador (read the book and you'll get the reference).
September 7, 2022
Prior to reading I was only familiar with Mullinger through the magazine he co-founded. I liked a lot of this book. It took me a while to get into as I was less interested in his upbrining and start in comedy and more interested in his life after he moved to NB. His tenacity and work ethic is very admirable - what he has accomplished is pretty incredible.
November 4, 2023
I think I had my hopes up a bit too high with this one... As an Atlantic Canadian living in England, I was really looking forward to reading the views of someone moving the opposite direction. I found it fell a bit flat and it just never clicked with me. Still interesting enough to hear his story, just didn't connect with it like I had thought I would.
August 5, 2022
This was a good read....the story of James Mullinger who came from London to New Brunswick. I liked the format with the short chapters/stories of his life and challenges/accomplishments as a comedian coming to Canada. An enjoyable read.
May 16, 2023
Funny, entertaining..a great read! Impressed with Mullinger's dedication and resilience when being a comedian can be rewarding but tough. His hard work with his comedy and in his community is impressive!
September 15, 2023
Funny, honest and inspiring. James Mullinger is not only a talented stand-up comedian, but a good writer. His perspectives on Canada and Canadians will make you smile, and maybe make us look with pride at what we have here in Atlantic Canada.
July 10, 2022
A really good read. Great stories about making a big move in life for a better living for his family. Some very funny stories.
September 10, 2023
I love local stories. Funny honest and heart warming. This is a great book !
October 6, 2023
Some great stories, funniest guy! Love the book!
October 29, 2023
I think James is funny for everyone but I take extra special delight as he’s talking about my home town (Saint John). It was fun listening to this book. Lots of laughs
April 4, 2025
What an intetesting book for a Saint John born and bred reader! I saw my hometown through new eyes. Many laughs and so spot in about the area!! Absolutely LOVED it!!
July 15, 2025
This is an inspiring must-read for anyone trying to make a living in the arts in Atlantic Canada!
July 23, 2025
Just like his stand up comedy, this book draws you in wanting more!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews