Who are the white working class and why are they so misunderstood? Economist journalist Joel Budd has spent five years investigating their stories. This is what they have to say.
‘Essential reading’ – The Daily Telegraph
‘Not just well timed but admirably powerful’ – The Guardian
‘Packed with revealing content’ – Independent
Underdogs is a surprising journey into the heart of the misunderstood white working class. And it might just change how you see Britain.
Brexit helped to turn the white working class into a social and political force, but in its aftermath one-third of the population has been reduced to a caricature. Portrayed as angry and hostile to change, as xenophobic, even racist, it’s a tired narrative favoured by both politicians and the press. The truth is far more compelling.
In Underdogs, Economist journalist Joel Budd takes us across the UK, from Teesside to the Isle of Wight, from the Valleys of South Wales to the fields of Lincolnshire, talking with a diverse group of people about their jobs, their families and neighbourhoods, their struggles and hopes.
Offering an eye-opening corrective to the familiar stereotype, Budd shows that white working- class people are not just grumbling about the transformation of Britain. Instead, with warmth and determination, they are pushing the country forward.
"A thoughtful, insightful and measured account of the life of Britain’s white working classes." - Telegraph
"Demolishes Brexit myths . . . This book is not just well-timed but admirably powerful." - The Guardian
"Outstanding journalism . . . The macro is there but the micro draws out the best writing from this gifted reporter." - New Statesman
"Excellent . . . illuminates the UK's present political moment superbly." - Financial Times
"This has never been more needed . . . a robust account of the history of the white working-class." - inews
"Budd deftly negotiates his way through this treacherous terrain . . . Thoughtful and nuanced." - The Observer
"Packed with revealing content." - Independent
"An immersive read . . . an important book. Essential reading for anybody who wants to make sense of Britain today." - North East Bylines
